New Player Marnco Has Increased Competition And Reduction In Prices In New Zealand’s Fertiliser Market And Viewed Positively By Leading Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
The recent entry of Marnco into the New Zealand fertiliser market has been viewed as a positive development by one of New Zealand’s leading soil scientists, Hamilton-based Dr Gordon Rajendram.
“Since Marnco entered the market around Easter, we’ve seen a significant drop in fertiliser prices, which is great news for farmers,” says Rajendram.
He said that prior to COVID-19, the price of urea was approximately $530 per tonne, with super phosphate priced at $345 per tonne.
However, recent months have seen substantial price reductions, with potassium chloride (KCI) dropping from $1,100 per tonne in December 2023 to $795, thanks to Marnco’s competitive pricing according to Rajendram.
“Marnco’s entry into the market has made a tangible difference, offering pure KCI at $775 per tonne, and reducing the price of sulphur phosphate from $525 to $370 per tonne,” Dr Rajendram commented
“This is exactly the kind of competition we need to support our farming communities and ensure New Zealand agriculture remains competitive on the world stage.”
Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading expert in New Zealand’s agricultural sector, has called for increased competition in the country’s fertiliser market, citing it as essential for reducing costs and driving innovation.
According to Dr Rajendram, the lack of competition in New Zealand has kept fertiliser prices unnecessarily high, significantly impacting farmers’ production costs.
“Fertiliser is one of the biggest expenses on a farm. Higher fertiliser costs translate directly to higher production costs, whether it’s converting pastures and crops into milk or meat,” he explains. “For New Zealand agriculture to remain competitive on the global market, addressing this issue is crucial.”
Dr Rajendram highlights the financial strain particularly felt in the sheep and beef farming sectors. He notes that many farmers, especially those in the sheep sector, are cutting back on fertiliser use or withholding it altogether due to the low lamb schedule. “There’s a lot of hurt out there,” he says.
When comparing New Zealand to other farming nations, Dr Rajendram points out that many countries have a greater variety of fertiliser companies to choose from, which helps keep prices lower. “In South Africa, for example, urea sells for around $590 per tonne, and in Asia, it ranges from $550 to $600 per tonne. Meanwhile, in New Zealand, we’re paying almost $200 more per tonne, despite urea being produced locally.”
The absence of competition also stifles innovation, according to Dr Rajendram. “Without competition, there’s no incentive to create better products. Companies can continue selling the same old products without any need to improve because they control the market.”
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a respected figure in New Zealand’s agricultural industry, with extensive experience in soil science and sustainable farming practices. He is an advocate for innovation and competitiveness in the sector, particularly in the fertiliser market.
Soil compaction is a critical issue in agriculture, and its impact on greenhouse gas emissions, particularly nitrous oxide (N₂O), is a growing concern. Agraforum New Zealand recognises the importance of addressing soil compaction not just for environmental reasons, but for its substantial benefits to farmers’ bottom lines. Compacted soils reduce pore space, creating anaerobic conditions that favour the production of N₂O, a greenhouse gas nearly 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
A study by Sitaula et al. (2000) found that N₂O emissions could be four times higher in compacted soils compared to non-compacted soils. This increase is primarily due to restricted oxygen flow in the soil, which accelerates the denitrification process—a key contributor to N₂O production.
Another interesting finding from Ball et al. (2013) is that soil compaction can reduce the diversity of soil microbial communities. This reduction in microbial diversity can further exacerbate the imbalance in soil nutrient cycling, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions.
In New Zealand, particularly in dairy-intensive regions like Canterbury, soil compaction is a major challenge. According to DairyNZ, the compaction of soils not only exacerbates greenhouse gas emissions but also leads to increased nitrogen leaching, negatively impacting water quality. New Zealand leads the world with the lowest carbon emissions for dairy farming.
Addressing soil compaction also leads to lower input costs for farmers. Improved soil structure enhances nutrient uptake, reducing the need for nitrogen fertiliser while maintaining or boosting crop growth. Healthier soils also support better plant growth, decreasing the reliance on bought-in feed and improving animal health, which further lowers veterinary and feed expenses.
Graph 3: Shows the accumulated grass growth across all four farms over the trial period. The Agraforum New Zealand treated farms clearly grew significantly more pasture compared to the Untreated farms.
Dr Gordon Rajendram, a leading soil scientist, strongly endorses Agraforum New Zealand’s program. “By improving soil structure and addressing compaction, farmers can significantly reduce nitrogen leaching and lower the need for fertilisers,” Dr Rajendram explains.
Agraforum New Zealand’s solutions are designed to tackle these challenges head-on, offering farmers a practical way to improve their environmental footprint and save money. By adopting these practices, farmers can lower their costs, improve yields, and reduce the negative impacts of nitrogen leaching and greenhouse gas emissions on New Zealand’s ecosystems.
To find out more, give Allan a call and he can discuss the benefits of their products and how they can enhance your farming operation.
Ball, B. C. (2013). Soil structure and greenhouse gas emissions: a synthesis of 20 years of experimentation. European Journal of Soil Science, 64(3), 357–373. https://doi.org/10.1111/ejss.12013
When urea fertiliser is applied to pasture, it undergoes a series of chemical transformations vital for plant growth. Profile Fertilisers ensures these processes are managed efficiently to maximise yield and minimise environmental impact, offering advanced solutions backed by the latest agricultural research.
Urea, a concentrated form of nitrogen (typically 46% nitrogen by weight), is initially broken down by the enzyme urease, naturally present in soil. This hydrolysis process converts urea into ammonium (NH4+), a form of nitrogen, which is then converted to nitrate (NO3-) which the plant can then uptake. The reaction’s speed is influenced by soil temperature, moisture, and pH levels. Profile Fertilisers provides expert advice on optimal application timing, helping prevent nitrogen loss and improve nutrient uptake by plants.
Once ammonium is formed, it can either be absorbed directly by plants which is a small proportion compared to most of the applied nitrogen which undergoes nitrification, where soil bacteria convert it into nitrate (NO3-), which is the most plant-usable nitrogen form. Nitrate is highly mobile, prone to leaching. Research shows that the nitrogen applied, that only 1% of this nitrate is directly leached, and most of the leaching is due to nitrate from the urinary nitrogen excreted by animals. Applied urea can also be lost into the atmosphere as a gaseous nitrogen forms like nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. Research shows up to 50% of applied nitrogen can be lost if not properly managed. Profile Fertilisers’ products are designed to optimise nitrogen use efficiency, reducing losses and ensuring more nitrogen is available for plants.
Urea efficiency can be enhanced through strategic application, such as applying it before rainfall to incorporate fertiliser into the soil. This practice reduces nitrogen loss through volatilisation, where nitrogen escapes as ammonia gas. Profile Fertilisers offers tailored solutions and guidance to ensure your pasture receives the right nitrogen at the right time, maximising growth and minimising environmental impact.
In summary, urea is an effective nitrogen source for pastures, but its efficiency depends on careful management. Profile Fertilisers provides the expertise, products, and support to optimise nitrogen application, ensuring sustainable and productive pasture management.
An anonymous Hamilton-based farmer has supported the call for more competition in the fertiliser industry from renowned Hamilton soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram.
Dr Gordon Rajendram
“Improving soil biology with less environmental impact is a significant step forward. Improving productivity is one of the most important things any nation can do to help its people, so I think competition and new ways are great,” the farmer said.
“Furthermore, with increasing restrictions and tighter compliance standards being put on farmers, you are providing them with a choice and making it sustainable over the long term,” he said.
Dr Gordon Rajendram has been vocal about the critical need for increased competition in the New Zealand fertiliser market. According to Dr Rajendram, the current market dynamics stifle innovation and result in higher costs for farmers, ultimately impacting the agricultural sector’s sustainability and productivity.
The farmer emphasised the intense pressure faced by those in the dairy sector, where compliance with stringent environmental standards is a constant challenge. “Being in dairy, I am aware of how much pressure farmers are under from all sorts of things, so innovation and alternative choices are great for this sector.”
Dr Rajendram’s research underscores the importance of soil biology in enhancing productivity while minimising environmental impact. “By focusing on improving soil health through innovative fertilisers, we can achieve higher yields with less environmental degradation,” he explains.
“More competition in the fertiliser market would lead to lower prices and better products for farmers,” Dr Rajendram asserts. “This is crucial not only for improving soil health but also for meeting the stringent environmental standards imposed on the farming community.”
One of the key issues Dr Rajendram highlights is the limited number of players in the fertiliser industry, which leads to a lack of incentive for companies to innovate and offer environmentally friendly products. With New Zealand’s farmers facing increasing pressures from both regulatory bodies and market forces, the need for cost-effective and sustainable fertiliser options has never been greater.
In conclusion, Dr Rajendram’s call for more competition in the fertiliser market is not just about reducing costs; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation that benefits both farmers and the environment. As New Zealand continues to strive for more sustainable farming practices, embracing competition and encouraging innovation in the fertiliser sector will be key to achieving these goals.
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a distinguished independent soil scientist with extensive experience in the agricultural sector. His work focuses on improving soil health and sustainability practices in farming, making him a respected voice in the industry.
Hamilton, New Zealand – August 6, 2024 – Recent trials conducted by Dr Gordon Rajendram, a distinguished soil scientist and consultant, have revealed significant improvements in pasture production on Canterbury dairy farms through the use of soil compaction treatments. Dr Rajendram, formerly of AgResearch and MAF, led these trials to assess the impact of soil compaction on pasture growth and to demonstrate the effectiveness of Agraforum’s soil treatments. Dr Rajendram stated that “The trials have shown that addressing soil compaction through targeted treatments can significantly enhance pasture production, providing a sustainable solution for farmers to boost their productivity.”
Left (Agraforum Managing Director Allan Piercy and Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
Pasture production is influenced by five primary factors (1):
1. Soil Moisture: Adequate rainfall or irrigation is crucial, with less than 25% soil moisture negatively impacting growth.
2. Soil Temperature: Grass growth ceases when the soil temperature at 10 cm depth falls to 5-6 degrees Celsius.
3. Soil pH and Nutrients: Thirteen essential elements for plant growth, along with Co, Se, and I for animal health, are vital.
5. Soil Air Space (Air-Filled Porosity or Macroporosity): Compacted soil, with less than 10% air-filled porosity (AFP), significantly reduces pasture production. Each percentage drop below this threshold results in a 10% reduction in yield (based on AgResearch trials)(2).
Since 1995, the Waikato Regional Council has been monitoring soil quality at 150 sites across the Waikato region, focusing on volcanic ash and pumice soils used for dairying, beef, cropping, and forestry. Seven soil quality tests are conducted at each site, including air-filled porosity. The 2019 data revealed that 94% of dairy farming sites had concerning soil quality, with excessively high fertility and soil compaction affecting approximately 85% of the sites. (Waikato Regional Council)(3).
Aim and Methodology
The aim of the trials was to demonstrate that Agraforum’s soil compaction treatment can improve soil aeration and pasture growth. The trials involved:
– Four irrigated Canterbury dairy farms, with two using Agraforum’s treatments for several years and two untreated.
– Monthly pasture measurements using a ride-on mower and digital scales.
– Soil temperature monitoring, starting at 14 degrees Celsius and dropping to 5 degrees Celsius by the third cut.
Each farm had ten plots (2m x 10m), and the trials commenced in the last week of February 2024, with pasture cuts taken over a 105-day autumn period.
Findings
The results were conclusive:
– The two treated farms produced approximately 1,000 kg DM/ha (33%) more dry matter than the best untreated farm.
– Compared to the second untreated and most compacted farm, the treated farms yielded over 2,000 kg DM/ha (80%) more pasture.
Graphs from the study clearly illustrate the superior performance of treated farms in terms of total pasture grown and growth rates, particularly for the first cut.
Graph 1: Shows Total pasture grown for ~ 105 days for the 2 Agraforum Treated and Untreated Farms.
Graph 2: Shows the growth rates for the first cut for the farms. The Treated farms grew twice and 3 times the more pasture than the Untreated farms for the first cut.
Graph 3: Shows the accumulated grass growth across all four farms over the trial period. The treated farms clearly grew significantly more pasture compared to the Untreated farms. Error bars show the 95% confidence interval at each cut, calculated from the ten replicate plots within each farm.
Raw Data
Agraforum- Treated -Farm 1
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Temperature
Cut 1
1958 ± 230
27
73 ± 9
14
Cut 2
1226 ± 90
35
35 ± 3
10
Cut 3
388 ± 23
43
9 ± 1
5
3572 ±294
105
34 ± 3
Agraforum Treated -Farm 2
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1827 ± 129
29
63 ± 4
Cut 2
1180 ± 108
40
30 ±3
Cut 3
307 ± 30
36
9 ±1
3314 ± 241
105
32 ±2
Non Treated Farm-3
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1127 ±121
40
28 ± 3
Cut 2
1173 ±111
53
22 ± 2
Cut 3
2300 ±219
93 (105)
25 (22) ±2
Non Treated Farm – 4
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
429 ± 94
30
14 ± 3
Cut 2
262 ± 65
34
8 ± 2
Cut 3
691 ± 157
64(105)
(7) ± 1
The 95% confidence intervals have been calculated from ten replicate plots for each cut within each farm.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the importance of addressing soil compaction to improve pasture production. Agraforum’s soil aeration treatments have proven to be highly effective, offering a practical solution for farmers seeking to enhance productivity and sustainability.
It takes ~ 10 kg of Dry matter of good quality pasture to produce 1 kg milk solid.(4)
Four other field trials alongside Agraforum will be commencing this Spring in the Otago region, so watch this space.
“By improving soil aeration and reducing compaction, we can unlock the full potential of pasture growth, ensuring healthier soils and more productive farms.” – Dr Gordon Rajendram, PhD, Soil Scientist/Consultant
—
About Dr Gordon Rajendram
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a renowned soil scientist and independent consultant with extensive experience in soil fertility, agronomy, and farm environmental consultancy. His expertise has been instrumental in bringing scientific solutions to the agricultural sector, improving productivity and sustainability for farmers across New Zealand.
About Allan Pirecy
Allan Piercy is a seasoned vet who worked in a rural clinic in South Taranaki for 20 years before moving to Mid Canterbury, where he headed a large veterinary practice. His primary focus was on dairy cattle, preventive medicine, and ensuring economic returns for farmers. Recognising that many animal health and production issues stemmed from poor soil nutrition and structure, Allan founded Agraforum New Zealand in 2007, aimed at addressing animal health and production issues through improved soil and crop management. Allan’s guiding principle is, “Correct the cause of a problem, don’t continue to treat the symptoms.”
2. Betteridge K, Drewry J, Mackay A, Singleton P. (2003). Managing treading damage on dairy and beef farms in NZ. Booklet by CRI, AgResearch – Land and Environment Management Group. Research on dairy and beef cattle in Northland, Waikato, Manawatu, and Southland in the 1990s.
3. Waikato Regional Council. Soil quality monitoring data (2019).
Earthworms are crucial to maintaining healthy soil, significantly enhancing soil structure and fertility. Their natural burrowing activity aerates the soil, improving water infiltration and root development. Fascinatingly, earthworms can consume up to 30 times their body weight in soil daily, which they excrete as nutrient-rich castings, helping to enrich the soil with essential nutrients. A vital component in supporting these beneficial organisms is calcium, a nutrient supplied by Profile Fertilisers’ products.
Profile Fertilisers offers Elevate, a premium calcium-based product designed to boost soil calcium levels. Calcium is vital not only for plant health but also for the well-being of earthworms. It helps neutralise soil acidity, creating a more favourable environment for earthworms to thrive. This, in turn, leads to improved soil structure and fertility, supporting the biological processes necessary for sustainable agriculture.
One of the critical roles of earthworms is their ability to combat soil compaction. Compacted soil can restrict root growth and water absorption, negatively impacting plant health. Earthworms alleviate this by creating channels that allow air and water to penetrate deeper into the soil, reducing compaction and promoting a healthier root environment. The use of Elevate by Profile Fertilisers increases the soil’s calcium content, fostering a robust earthworm population that helps mitigate soil compaction.
The beneficial relationship between earthworms and calcium-enriched soil enhances nutrient cycling, water retention, and soil aeration—key factors for healthy crop growth. Consequently, farmers and gardeners can achieve higher yields while reducing their dependence on chemical fertilisers, thus promoting a more sustainable approach to soil management.
Incorporating Profile Fertilisers’ Elevate into soil management strategies is a wise investment in soil health. By supporting the crucial role of earthworms and ensuring adequate calcium levels, Profile Fertilisers helps cultivate a thriving agricultural environment. This not only benefits the ecosystem but also enhances crop productivity, making it a valuable choice for those committed to sustainable farming practices.
The story of a family and their farm on the coast of Whangarei is one of remarkable resilience and adaptation. Despite numerous challenges, things are on track for a brighter future. Their journey, marked by persistent challenges and setbacks, exemplifies their determination to overcome adversity and secure a better future.
Once owning a farm at Dargaville, the family decided to move closer to Whangarei, purchasing two farms in the general area. However, persistent flooding over the past eight years at one farm forced them to sell their properties to a businessperson from Auckland.
Retaining a 50/50 sharemilking job on their home farm, they were able to purchase an additional 145 hectares on the coast of Whangarei, encompassing 85 hectares of flat land, 46 hectares of hill land, 14 hectares of bush in 4 titles. The 4 titles are encompass 36 ha plus house, 62 ha, 20 ha and 27 ha) with good sea views from parts of the farm. From the back of the farm from a ramp you are able to launch a boat and be in the open ocean in 5 minutes. From this farm you can set a net in the evening, go back in the the morning to find mullet, snapper, trevally, Kahawaii and flounder in the net. They moved to their new farm in March 2017.
The sharemilking job was intended to help pay and develop the new farm. However, within a year, they lost the 50/50 sharemilking job and ended up in court, despite having all the rights. The other side had more money, and their lawyer advised them to leave, resulting in significant financial loss.
In October 2019, disaster struck again when the floodgate on the farm collapsed, allowing seawater to inundate the flatland, killing grass, worms, and 85 large poplar trees, and destroying 60 hectares of grass. They worked tirelessly through the night to install a temporary gate and awaited resource consent to install new gates. In April 2020, they began constructing new floodgates, designed by an engineer and built with the help of family and a late friend.
The family faced further challenges with waterlogged paddocks due to salt contamination and winter rain. Despite these setbacks, they began humping and hollowing paddocks, finishing three paddocks initially. However, complaints from uneducated neighbours to the dairy industry threatened their milk supply, as it was incorrectly understood that it was illegal to carry out this work. The dairy company stated they would stop taking their milk if they continued.
In 2022, they sold livestock to China through Genetic Developments but did not receive payment, resulting in further financial strain.
By September 2023, land productivity remained an issue, prompting them to restart humping and hollowing. Uneducated neighbours complained again to the Regional Council, but the council was impressed with their progress and primarily advised on silt control. They managed to hump and hollow 15 paddocks, with three remaining. Of the 145 hectares, 110 hectares are now effective.
Despite these continuous challenges, the family exemplifies resilience and determination in their ongoing journey to develop their farm and secure their future.
Looking Ahead: A Call for Support
Here lies a beautiful property with coastal views, brimming with potential and on the cusp of full recovery. With the help of Dr Gordon Rajendram, the farm is on its way to recovery. They are now moving on to repairing the hills, with the outlook being much brighter. Production has increased by 20% this year compared to last year and is expected to increase further with other improvements. They are encouraging people to reach out and invest in the property. This farm will be a great asset for anyone who invests, offering both financial returns and the satisfaction of supporting a resilient family and a flourishing agricultural endeavour. With your support, they can continue to improve their farm and secure a prosperous future.
The dairy industry in New Zealand is an essential part of the economy, contributing significantly to the nation’s GDP. However, the environmental impact of dairy farming, particularly the use of nitrogen-based fertilisers like urea, has been a growing concern. Profile Fertilisers is at the forefront of addressing these issues, focusing on the leaching of nitrates into the groundwater, largely due to urine patches left by grazing cows.
Urine patches are a significant source of nitrogen leaching in pasture-based dairy systems. When cows urinate, they deposit a concentrated amount of nitrogen in small areas, resulting in patches where the nitrogen levels can reach up to 1,000 kg/ha. This is far more than the plants can utilise, leading to excess nitrogen that is susceptible to leaching, especially during heavy rainfall.
Studies have shown that nitrogen leaching from urine patches can account for up to 70% of the total nitrate leaching on dairy farms. The extent of leaching is influenced by several factors, including soil type, rainfall, and management practices. For instance, free-draining soils and high rainfall areas are particularly vulnerable to nitrate leaching. Research indicates that the average dairy cow can produce around 250-300 litres of urine per day, contributing significantly to the nitrogen load on pastures.
The leaching of nitrates into surface water bodies can contribute to eutrophication, a process that depletes oxygen in the water and harms aquatic life. It is estimated that nitrate leaching from agricultural sources contributes to 60-80% of the total nitrogen entering water bodies in New Zealand.
Profile Fertilisers, based in Pahiatua, is committed to addressing these challenges by promoting sustainable fertiliser practices. Using slow-release nitrogen fertilisers and implementing precision application techniques can significantly reduce the amount of nitrogen lost to leaching. Additionally, integrating advanced soil testing and monitoring helps optimise nitrogen use, ensuring that it meets the plants’ needs without excess. Slow-release fertilisers have been shown to reduce nitrogen losses by up to 50% compared to conventional urea.
Farmers can also adopt practices such as planting catch crops, which absorb residual nitrogen, and improving irrigation efficiency to reduce nitrate leaching. Implementing strategic grazing management and using nitrification inhibitors can further mitigate nitrogen leaching. By combining these strategies, the dairy industry can move towards more sustainable practices that protect our valuable water resources while maintaining productivity.
Through continuous research and innovation, Profile Fertilisers aims to support the dairy industry in reducing its environmental footprint, ensuring a balanced approach to productivity and sustainability. With the right strategies, the dairy industry can continue to thrive while preserving New Zealand’s pristine environment for future generations.
Left to right: Agraforum Managing Director Allan Piercy and Soil Scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hamilton, New Zealand – July 8, 2024 – Recent trials conducted by Dr Gordon Rajendram, a distinguished soil scientist and consultant, have revealed significant improvements in pasture production on Canterbury dairy farms through the use of soil compaction treatments. Dr Rajendram, formerly of AgResearch and MAF, led these trials to assess the impact of soil compaction on pasture growth and to demonstrate the effectiveness of Agraforum’s soil treatments. Dr Rajendram stated that “The trials have shown that addressing soil compaction through targeted treatments can significantly enhance pasture production, providing a sustainable solution for farmers to boost their productivity.”
Pasture production is influenced by five primary factors (1):
1. Soil Moisture: Adequate rainfall or irrigation is crucial, with less than 25% soil moisture negatively impacting growth.
2. Soil Temperature: Grass growth ceases when the soil temperature at 10 cm depth falls to 5-6 degrees Celsius.
3. Soil pH and Nutrients: Thirteen essential elements for plant growth, along with Co, Se, and I for animal health, are vital.
5. Soil Air Space (Air-Filled Porosity or Macroporosity): Compacted soil, with less than 10% air-filled porosity (AFP), significantly reduces pasture production. Each percentage drop below this threshold results in a 10% reduction in yield (based on AgResearch trials)(2).
Since 1995, the Waikato Regional Council has been monitoring soil quality at 150 sites across the Waikato region, focusing on volcanic ash and pumice soils used for dairying, beef, cropping, and forestry. Seven soil quality tests are conducted at each site, including air-filled porosity. The 2019 data revealed that 94% of dairy farming sites had concerning soil quality, with excessively high fertility and soil compaction affecting approximately 85% of the sites. (Waikato Regional Council)(3).
Aim and Methodology
The aim of the trials was to demonstrate that Agraforum’s soil compaction treatment can improve soil aeration and pasture growth. The trials involved:
– Four irrigated Canterbury dairy farms, with two using Agraforum’s treatments for several years and two untreated.
– Monthly pasture measurements using a ride-on mower and digital scales.
– Soil temperature monitoring, starting at 14 degrees Celsius and dropping to 5 degrees Celsius by the third cut.
Each farm had ten plots (2m x 10m), and the trials commenced in the last week of February 2024, with pasture cuts taken over a 105-day autumn period.
Findings
The results were conclusive:
– The two treated farms produced approximately 1,000 kg DM/ha (33%) more dry matter than the best untreated farm.
– Compared to the second untreated and most compacted farm, the treated farms yielded over 2,000 kg DM/ha (80%) more pasture.
Graphs from the study clearly illustrate the superior performance of treated farms in terms of total pasture grown and growth rates, particularly for the first cut.
Graph 1: Shows Total pasture grown for ~ 105 days for the 2 Agraforum Treated and Untreated Farms.
Graph 2: Shows the growth rates for the first cut for the farms. The Treated farms grew twice and 3 times the more pasture than the Untreated farms for the first cut.
Raw Data
Agraforum- Treated -Farm 1
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Temperature
Cut 1
1958
27
73
14
Cut 2
1226
35
35
10
Cut 3
388
43
9
5
3572
105
34
Agraforum Treated -Farm 2
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1827
29
63
Cut 2
1180
40
30
Cut 3
307
36
9
3314
105
32
Non Treated Farm-3
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
1127
40
28
Cut 2
1173
53
22
Cut 3
2300
93(105)
25 (22)
Non Treated Farm – 4
Kg DM hectare
Days Growth
Kg DM/day
Cut 1
429
30
14
Cut 2
262
34
8
Cut 3
691
64(105)
11 (7)
Conclusion
These findings highlight the importance of addressing soil compaction to improve pasture production. Agraforum’s soil aeration treatments have proven to be highly effective, offering a practical solution for farmers seeking to enhance productivity and sustainability.
It takes ~ 10 kg of Dry matter of good quality pasture to produce 1 kg milk solid.(4)
Four other field trials alongside Agraforum will be commencing this Spring in the Otago region, so watch this space.
“By improving soil aeration and reducing compaction, we can unlock the full potential of pasture growth, ensuring healthier soils and more productive farms.” – Dr Gordon Rajendram, PhD, Soil Scientist/Consultant
—
About Dr Gordon Rajendram
Dr Gordon Rajendram is a renowned soil scientist and independent consultant with extensive experience in soil fertility, agronomy, and farm environmental consultancy. His expertise has been instrumental in bringing scientific solutions to the agricultural sector, improving productivity and sustainability for farmers across New Zealand.
About Allan Pirecy
Allan Piercy is a seasoned vet who worked in a rural clinic in South Taranaki for 20 years before moving to Mid Canterbury, where he headed a large veterinary practice. His primary focus was on dairy cattle, preventive medicine, and ensuring economic returns for farmers. Recognising that many animal health and production issues stemmed from poor soil nutrition and structure, Allan founded Agraforum New Zealand in 2007, aimed at addressing animal health and production issues through improved soil and crop management. Allan’s guiding principle is, “Correct the cause of a problem, don’t continue to treat the symptoms.”
2. Betteridge K, Drewry J, Mackay A, Singleton P. (2003). Managing treading damage on dairy and beef farms in NZ. Booklet by CRI, AgResearch – Land and Environment Management Group. Research on dairy and beef cattle in Northland, Waikato, Manawatu, and Southland in the 1990s.
3. Waikato Regional Council. Soil quality monitoring data (2019).
Lot 1 on Monument Road is an exceptional lifestyle property in Mangatangi, offering 8000m² of prime rural land. This vacant residential section is ideally situated to provide a peaceful retreat while still being accessible to necessary amenities. The property is set in a picturesque rural landscape, characterised by its proximity to productive dairy farms and lifestyle blocks, ensuring a balance of seclusion and community. With one building site already consented, this property presents a great development opportunity. The flat contour and manageable size make it an excellent choice for building a bespoke rural home. The potential to create a unique and personalised living space in a tranquil environment is immense.
Lot 2
10 Miller Road (Lot 2), Mangatangi
Nestled in the serene rural setting of Mangatangi, Lot 2 on Miller Road offers an expansive 1.33-hectare vacant section perfect for those seeking a tranquil lifestyle property. This rear lot, accessed off Miller Road, boasts a mainly flat, irregularly shaped terrain, providing multiple potential building sites. The property already has one building site consented, making it a great development opportunity. The rural residential zoning ensures a peaceful environment surrounded by economic dairy units and grazing properties, interspersed with rural lifestyle blocks. The large size and irregular shape of the lot offer numerous possibilities for creative landscaping and building, allowing you to craft a truly bespoke rural retreat.
The market value for both of these sections is estimated at $630,000, inclusive of GST, reflecting the area’s desirable location and the growing interest in lifestyle properties. No convenant.
Key Location Highlights
Both properties are well-connected with essential services, including electricity and rural mail delivery, making them convenient choices for future homes. Their strategic locations offer easy access to local attractions and amenities:
– Miranda: 8 minutes
– Local School: 1 minute
– Thames: 40 minutes
– Coromandel: 1 hour 36 minutes
– Auckland: 1 hour
– Hamilton: 1 hour 5 minutes
Market Insights and Opportunities
The rural lifestyle property market in the Waikato District has seen steady demand, with lifestyle property sales showing resilience. According to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), lifestyle property sales have increased by 4.3% in the past three months compared to the previous period. This trend highlights the growing appeal of rural living, driven by the desire for space, tranquillity, and a closer connection to nature.
Both sections, with their competitive pricing and prime locations, are expected to attract significant interest. Whether you are looking to build a family home or invest in a valuable piece of real estate, these properties in Mangatangi offer a unique blend of rural charm and modern convenience. Don’t miss out on these opportunities to secure a slice of the idyllic Waikato countryside and create a personalised haven tailored to your lifestyle needs.
