Improving water quality is a priority for communities, farmers, and for DairyNZ. Our scientists are developing a range of solutions to improve water quality. Farmers play a key role in helping us test and evaluate solutions on-farm. We also work closely with research partners to pool expertise to get the best value for your levy.
Solutions are designed to suit local water quality challenges. Trials and work with farmers help us understand what’s possible on-farm to meet changing regulations while staying profitable. This research helps inform regional councils so dairy can continue making an important contribution to New Zealand’s future.
Our current work includes research into plantain, low nitrogen farm systems, and tracking and reducing E.coli levels in waterways.
Working alongside farmers to make a difference in catchments
We are also working closely with farmers and catchment groups to trial practical tools and interventions on-farm. This work is part of a three-year DairyNZ Sustainable Catchments programme, funded by the Ministry for the Environment’s Jobs for Nature programme. It’s focused on three priority catchments – Pōkaiwhenua, Waimea (Southland), and the South Canterbury region. These have higher N concentrations and lower ecosystem health scores than other catchments.
Work is underway in these areas to complete catchment assessments and design monitoring programmes to track water quality and hauora (health) over time. This will be followed by on-farm and catchment trials of mitigations known to improve water quality.
This work builds on the success of previous partnerships with farmers in Selwyn Hinds (Canterbury), Tararua, and Aparima (Southland) to meet changing regulations and improve water quality. We also support farmers nationwide to adopt farm environment plans to reduce the impact of farming practices on the environment. Our Dairy Tomorrow partnership documents this work. You can read more on the work we have underway to improve water quality below.
Monitoring waterway health
When it comes to monitoring waterway health, what makes up a holistic assessment of stream health? Join us as we talk Dr Craig Depree DairyNZ’s Principal Scientist, to hear his views on the benefits in adopting a holistic approach to waterway health.
Water quality research update
When it comes to improving water quality, what does best practice look like? And how do you invest in long-term solutions to meet changing regional regulations? Join us as we talk to DairyNZ Senior Water Quality Scientist Dr Katrina Macintosh and AgResearch Senior Scientist Dr Richard Muirhead about DairyNZ’s key research initiatives and how these projects can provide solutions to improve water quality.
Low N systems
The Low N Systems research programme is investigating how stacking various mitigation options can help farmers achieve significant nitrogen loss reductions.
Plantain potency and practice programme
A plantain research programme is studying how Ecotain® plantain can significantly reduce nitrogen losses to freshwater and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Monitoring catchment water quality
A long-running joint research project has shown adopting good farming practices reduces contaminant loss into waterways and improves water quality.
Achieving nitrogen targets in Canterbury
Farmers in Canterbury’s Selwyn Hinds catchment used a range of strategies to significantly reduce farm nitrogen losses and meet challenging local regulations.
Understanding E. coli
A new research programme is working with farmers in Manawatū-Whanganui to understand and reduce E. coli losses into waterways.
Pōkaiwhenua planting
A new partnership between DairyNZ, Iwi and farmers is working to improve the health of the Pōkaiwhenua Stream in Waikato.
Tararua plantain project
Farmers in Tararua have successfully used plantain to reduce N losses and meet challenging local regulations.
South Canterbury catchment
A collaborative project is underway between farmers, DairyNZ and other stakeholders in South Canterbury, to analyse and support implementation of solutions that further decrease nitrogen in water and help ensure farmers can meet plan change rules.
Waimea catchment
The collaborative Waimea catchment project is driving successful outcomes for meeting future nitrogen limits and staying profitable.
Additional resources for farmers
Check out this information to help you consider and manage your impact on water quality.
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Reducing nitrogen loss
Nitrogen loss from your dairy farm negatively impacts both the environment and your efficiency.
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Fencing waterways
Fencing waterways on your dairy farm protects freshwater from pollutants and creates a habitat for various species.
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Riparian planting
Riparian planting can enhance your land, waterways, and biodiversity. Get tips and guidance for planting to ensure your planting is effective and economical.
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Catchment group support
Catchment groups offer a great opportunity for you and your local community to enhance and improve the biodiversity, water quality, and amenity value of your catchment and downstream environs.