Rural

One of New Zealand’s leading independent soil scientists, Dr Gordon Rajendram, is in Taranaki this week performing field trails for Tokoroa-based Blue Pacific Minerals (BPM). Dr Rajendram’s  field trials for a number of companies aim to bring Kiwi farmers new ways to improve soil health, boost crop performance, and cut down on nutrient losses. During his 22 years at AgResearch and Ruakura Research Centre he developed two field calibrated soil tests and much of his research and development has been applied to the agriculture industry with excellent results. He has more than 70 publications and six patents to his name and is independent consultant to farmers and fertiliser companies to whom he is committed to getting the most out of their soil so that the farm can work more proficiently, be sustainable whilst still increasing farm profitability. With Dr Rajendram’s expert hands-on experience in farm systems and BPM’s natural zeolite products, the field trials will focus on practical solutions that make a difference in the paddock. BPM’s zeolite is mined in the Waikato and is known for its ability to hold on to both water and nutrients. It acts a bit like a sponge, soaking up moisture and fertiliser and then releasing them back to the plant when needed. This means fewer nutrients are lost through leaching, and pastures and crops can keep growing even when conditions get tough. Farmers using zeolite have found it helps lift production while also supporting long-term soil health. Alongside this, Dr Rajendram is highlighting the value of foliar application. Instead of relying only on fertiliser going into the soil, foliar feeding applies nutrients directly to the leaves, where they are quickly absorbed. This method is especially useful when soil conditions slow down uptake, such as in cold or dry weather, or during key growth stages when plants need an extra boost. Applying trace elements like zinc, copper, or boron through foliar sprays can give crops what they need straight away, improving growth and resilience. BPM’s zeolite and foliar application gives farmers a smarter way to manage nutrients. Zeolite holds fertiliser in the soil for steady release, while foliar sprays top plants up at the right time. This reduces waste, keeps nutrients where they belong, and helps drive better yields. Dr Rajendram says the goal is simple: “Farmers don’t need more fertiliser; they need nutrients working harder for them. By using the right products in the right way, we can save costs, protect the environment, and grow stronger crops.” For more information, contact:Dr Gordon Rajendram📞 021 466077✉️ rajendram@xtra.co.nz🌐 www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Media Enquiries:Media PA – Phillip📞 027 458 7724✉️ phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Introduction New Zealand farmers often face two major challenges: nutrient loss from soils and the impacts of dry conditions. Dr Gordon Rajendram says solid humates and biochar, both derived from plant-based materials, can be valuable tools in addressing these issues. Used in soils or as part of animal feed, they help retain water and nutrients where they are needed most [1]. “The key is getting more value from every drop of water and every kilogram of fertiliser,” says Dr Rajendram. “Humates and biochar work with nature to do exactly that.” Humates: Feeding Soil and Livestock Humates are rich in humic and fulvic acids, typically sourced from lignite (brown coal) [2]. With a naturally high cation exchange capacity (CEC), they hold onto water and nutrients, keeping them available to plant roots [3]. By binding with nitrogen compounds, humates can reduce nitrate leaching, one of the biggest environmental issues facing New Zealand’s pastoral farming systems. They also limit nitrous oxide emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, by locking nitrogen into the soil. Humates stimulate beneficial soil microbes and improve soil structure. When included in livestock feed, they aid digestion, boost mineral uptake, support immunity, and help control parasites [4]. Healthier stock means better performance in the paddock and higher-quality manure returning to the soil. Biochar: Long-Lasting Benefits for the Land Biochar is charcoal made from wood or crop residues in a low-oxygen environment [5]. Like humates, it has a high CEC and acts as a reservoir for nutrients and moisture. The Australia New Zealand Biochar Industry Group (ANZBIC) highlights its ability to build long-lasting soil carbon, reduce nitrate leaching, and retain nitrogen in the soil [6]. This reduces both nutrient losses to waterways and nitrous oxide emissions, tackling two of the most pressing environmental concerns for NZ agriculture. When incorporated into compost or seedbeds, biochar improves soil resilience, helping pastures survive dry conditions [7]. In small amounts, it can also be added to feed, where it binds toxins, improves gut health, and enhances manure quality [8]. Is Black Gold the Saviour? There is growing evidence that biochar, sometimes called “black gold”, can be a game-changer for worn-out soils. While not a standalone solution, used alongside balanced nutrition and good farming practice, it strengthens soil structure, builds fertility, and reduces environmental impacts [9]. Conclusion Dr Gordon Rajendram believes that solid humates and biochar offer practical, proven benefits for Kiwi farmers. By reducing nitrate leaching, lowering nitrous oxide emissions, and improving nutrient and water efficiency, they support stronger pastures, healthier animals, and more sustainable farming for the future. Key References [1] Lehmann, J., & Joseph, S. (2015). Biochar for Environmental Management. Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780203762264 [2] Stevenson, F.J. (1994). Humus Chemistry. Wiley. https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Humus+Chemistry-p-9780471594741 [3] Khan, S.A. et al. (2007). “The Myth of Nitrogen Fertilization for Soil Carbon Sequestration”. Journal of Environmental Quality. https://doi.org/10.2134/jeq2007.0099 [4] Islam, K.M.S. et al. (2005). “Use of Humic Substances in Agriculture”. Pakistan Journal of Nutrition. https://doi.org/10.3923/pjn.2005.126.134 [5] International Biochar Initiative. (2023). Biochar Basics. https://biochar-international.org/biochar/ [6] Australia New Zealand Biochar Industry Group (ANZBIC). (2024). Biochar and Soil Health. https://www.biochar.net.nz/ [7] Schmidt, H.P. et al. (2019). “Biochar in Animal Husbandry”. Agriculture. https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture9040081 [8] Glaser, B. et al. (2002). “Ameliorating Physical and Chemical Properties of Highly Weathered Soils”. Biology and Fertility of Soils. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00374-002-0466-4 [9] Jeffery, S. et al. (2011). “A Quantitative Review of the Effects of Biochar on Soil Properties”. Agriculture, Ecosystems & Environment. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agee.2010.09.011 Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram rajendram@xtra.co.nz 021 466 077 https://gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz/ Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

One of New Zealand’s leading soil scientists, Dr Gordon Rajendram, says foliar fertilisers hold the key to farmers overcoming Canterbury’s cool late winter/early spring major challenges for pasture growth. Dr Rajendram, who is based in Hamilton, says results from his research field trials have revealed  foliar fertiliser provides the necessary boost to pasture growth especially when soil temperatures are low and nitrogen uptake through the roots slow to a crawl. Foliar fertilisation involves spraying water-soluble nutrients directly onto plant leaves. It’s like a targeted nutritional top-up, allowing plants to absorb nutrients almost immediately through their foliage via stomata, cuticle and leaf hairs. “This method is proving effective in cold climates like the Canterbury region incurs,” says Dr Rajendram. “Foliar sprays deliver nutrients exactly when and where they’re needed,” he says. “You’re feeding the plant directly, so it bypasses the limitations of cold soil conditions and kickstarts growth quickly.” AgResearch Backs the Science Dr Rajendram isn’t the only one seeing these results. AgResearch, one of New Zealand’s leading agricultural science organisations, has conducted similar trials with consistent outcomes. In fact, foliar fertiliser has demonstrated efficiency rates of up to four times higher than granular applications. Faster Response, Less Fertiliser One replicated pasture trial in New Zealand revealed that just 9 kg N/ha as foliar urea achieved the same grass yield (1,426 kg DM/ha) as 37 kg N/ha of granular urea. The response is rapid for a 24 day period. That’s a powerful statistic – it means foliar N delivered about 61 kg of dry matter per kg of N, compared to just 14 kg/kg N for granular urea. “With a quicker plant response and fewer applications needed, this method saves time and product, offering real cost-efficiency to Canterbury farmers,” Dr Raendram’s trials have uncovered. Dr Rajendram notes: “Granular urea is only about 35% efficient, while foliar applications are faster and use less product overall. That’s a win for farmers and the environment.” Unit N40 (extra kg DM per unit N applied over 40 days of growth) for the different seasons and regions using Granular Urea. Reference: G.S Rajendram et al (2009). Nitrogen Fertiliser Trial Base. Taken from 1272 Nitrogen Fertiliser Response trials throughout New Zealand over 80 years conducted by MAF and AgResearch. Environmental Benefits With Canterbury’s sensitivity to nitrate leaching and water quality issues, foliar fertilisers offer an environmentally responsible choice. Because nutrients are absorbed directly by leaves rather than moving through the soil, volatilisation and there is less chance of leaching into waterways. The reduced volume of fertiliser required, further supports sustainable practices. Practical Advice for Canterbury Farmers Dr Rajendram advises farmers to use foliar sprays as a complement to their existing soil fertilisation strategies. For best results, he recommends applying in the early morning or when there is dew on the leaves – and avoiding hot, dry days to prevent leaf burn. Summary If you’re farming in Canterbury and struggling with sluggish pasture growth during late winter/early spring, foliar fertiliser may be the answer. Backed by an AgResearch study and Dr Gordon Rajendram’s decades of expertise, this method offers: By integrating foliar feeding into your nutrient management plan, you can keep your pastures thriving and your inputs low – even during the chillier months. References Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact Phillip Quay MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

When it comes to growing healthy, productive crops, your plants often reveal what they need — you just have to know where to look. According to soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, leaves are one of the best indicators of nutrient deficiencies. Subtle changes in colour, shape, or spotting can highlight underlying issues before they affect your yield. Yellowing between the veins may indicate a magnesium deficiency, while stunted or distorted leaves often point to problems with boron or calcium. Left untreated, these issues can progress quickly. The good news? Foliar feeding offers a fast, effective solution. Unlike traditional root-based fertilisers, foliar sprays deliver nutrients directly to the plant’s leaves. This allows for quicker uptake and immediate correction of deficiencies, particularly during peak growth periods or when soil conditions are poor. It’s a practical way to support plant health and boost performance — without waiting for the soil to catch up. But foliar nutrition is just one part of a wider conversation: what should you really be putting on your land? Too often, fertiliser decisions are made based on habit rather than evidence. While it’s tempting to stick with what’s worked in the past, every season brings new challenges. Weather patterns shift, nutrient levels change, and crop demands evolve. Applying nutrients without soil data risks overuse, waste, and environmental harm. A smarter approach involves testing your soil regularly, understanding what your crops need at each growth stage, and tailoring your inputs accordingly. That might include slow-release fertilisers, biological amendments, or timely foliar applications. Finally, it’s important to move beyond the mindset of soil testing as a “spring-only” task. Nutrient availability isn’t static — it fluctuates year-round with rainfall, plant uptake, and microbial activity. Monitoring your soil throughout the year provides valuable insights and helps prevent problems before they start. As Dr Gordon Rajendram advises, tuning into what your plants and soil are telling you — and responding with targeted, informed action — is the key to growing stronger crops, protecting your land, and improving your bottom line. Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Effluent is not waste – it’s a nutrient-rich fertiliser source. When used properly, it can save money on synthetic fertiliser and support healthy soils. But when mismanaged, effluent can contaminate waterways, harm stock health and result in large fines. Here’s what farmers need to know. The Right Way to Manage Effluent What Can Go Wrong – and the Cost Case Study 1: Waimana, Bay of Plenty (2023)Two farms were fined a total of $77,000 for discharging effluent into a stream. A travelling irrigator had operated too close to a drain in damp conditions, with no soil moisture checks or documented system. Result: obvious ponding and discoloured stream water. Case Study 2: Waverley, Taranaki (2018)A faulty oxidation pond led to raw effluent entering the Moumahaki Stream. The farmer was fined $54,000. In a separate incident, ponded effluent ran off land into a creek – a $45,000 fine followed. Poor maintenance and storage management were to blame. Final Word Effluent is an asset – if managed correctly. Use industry calculators (like DairyNZ’s Effluent Spreading and Storage Tools), regularly maintain systems, and apply with care. The environment, your pasture, and your wallet will thank you. Want tailored advice for your farm?Get in touch with Dr Gordon Rajendram today to ensure your effluent management is safe, compliant, and working for your soil. Visit www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz or contact him directly for a personalised consultation. Sources: Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

Foliar fertiliser means spraying water-soluble nutrients directly onto plant leaves. In effect, it’s like a quick “vitamin boost” through the foliage. Research has long shown that leaves can absorb nutrients via stomata (tiny pores), cuticle and leaf hairs. So foliar feeding bypasses the soil and gives plants nutrients within hours. According to soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, foliar sprays “deliver nutrients exactly when and where they’re needed” during cooler weather (1). Why It Works in Winter Foliar feeding is especially handy in cold seasons. When soil temperatures drop, root uptake of nitrogen slows dramatically, so grass barely grows. But a foliar spray can still feed actively growing leaves. Dr Rajendram explains: “Applying foliar fertiliser in winter means you’re not relying on soil temperatures to activate the nitrogen… You’re feeding the plant directly — it’s faster, more efficient, and leads to better results with less input.” In other words, you get a quicker response even when the ground is cold. Trials in New Zealand found that foliar N improved pasture growth at low temperatures, helping farmers extend growth into winter (1,2). Real Results from New Zealand Trials Figure: A replicated pasture trial found that using 9 kg N/ha as a foliar urea spray produced essentially the same grass yield (1,426 kg DM/ha) as 37 kg N/ha of granular urea. This means the foliar method gave about 61 kg of dry matter per kg N versus 14 kg per kg N for soil urea – roughly 4× more efficient (2). The response was quick and lasted for 24 days. Better Efficiency, Less Waste The efficiency gains are dramatic. By targeting nutrients to the leaves, plants use more of the fertiliser and less is lost. A recent review notes that foliar sprays “deliver nutrients directly… thereby helping to reduce negative impacts” on soil and water (3). In trials on wheat, even very low rates of foliar phosphorus in winter corrected mid-season deficiencies and boosted P use efficiency (4). Overall, foliar feeding can increase nutrient-use efficiency and yield, especially for micronutrients or in special situations. When and How to Use It Of course, foliar feeding supplements, not replaces, normal soil fertilisation. Think of it as an extra tool. Bulk N, P, K still come from soil and applied fertilisers, while foliar applications give fast fixes of nitrogen, major and trace elements. For best results, spray when leaves are moist (e.g. morning dew or light rain) and avoid very hot, dry weather to prevent leaf burn. The bottom line: foliar fertilisers are a practical way to get nutrients into the plant quickly, especially when soil uptake is slow. As Dr Rajendram reminds us, with the right timing farmers can grow more winter grass with less input. By combining foliar sprays with a solid soil fertility plan, farmers can boost efficiency, reduce losses, and keep pasture growing through the cooler months (1,2). About Dr Gordon Rajendram Dr Gordon Rajendram is a New Zealand-based soil scientist with over 40 years of experience in nutrient management and soil fertility. Formerly with AgResearch, he is widely respected for his work on improving nitrogen efficiency and sustainable farming practices. References Contact Dr Gordon Rajendram 021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

pressure of peak milking out of the way, now is the ideal time to have your farm refrigeration checked and serviced by the experts at JSR. A well-maintained refrigeration system is vital to keeping your milk chilled quickly and efficiently, meeting quality standards and helping you avoid costly penalties. Over time, even high-performing systems can develop wear and tear—leaks, inefficient cooling, or electrical issues that can compromise your output and reliability. At JSR, we offer comprehensive checks and servicing on all types of on-farm refrigeration, including vat chillers, water cooling, glycol systems, and water heating. By scheduling your service now, you’ll be ahead of the game before next season kicks off. A pre-emptive inspection and service helps ensure everything is running at its best, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns when you can least afford them. “The off-season is the smartest time to get ahead. Servicing your farm refrigeration or upgrading your system now, means fewer surprises later.”— Jujhar Randhawa, CEO, JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Thinking about upgrading? The off-season is also the smartest time to do it. Whether you’re looking to boost efficiency, meet new compliance standards, or cut down your energy costs, we can help you choose and install the right solution for your setup. Our team can advise on and supply modern, energy-efficient upgrades—from high-performing glycol chillers to reliable hot water heating systems designed for dairy farm demands. Our JSR technicians are local experts you can rely on, with years of hands-on experience in farm refrigeration. We understand the industry, we speak your language, and we’re ready to help. Don’t wait until something breaks—act now, while the pressure’s off.Book your service or upgrade consultation with JSR today and step into the next season confident your refrigeration systems are in peak condition. Contact JSR Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Today! 0800 JSR RAC Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

The Southern Hemisphere’s largest agricultural event opens its gates next week with a strong number of international delegates, ambassadors and exhibitors in attendance. The interest signals a strong rebound on international travel and a growing interest in Aotearoa New Zealand as a world-class provider of agricultural products and innovation. In a notable first, the German Pavilion, a collaborative initiative led by the German-New Zealand Chamber of Commerce and IFWexpo Heidelberg, and backed by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, has brought together 11 leading agri-businesses from across Germany all under one roof. “We are thrilled to welcome the delegation of German companies exhibiting at Fieldays,” said New Zealand National Fieldays Society Chief Executive Richard Lindroos. “This milestone highlights the strength of our growing relationship and aims to foster long-term partnerships”. Exhibitors include German automation firm IFM Electronic Ltd, horticultural supplier Floragard, irrigation and pump developer Bauer and more. Their unified presence marks Germany’s most significant exhibition at Fieldays to date, reinforcing the strategic importance of New Zealand as a destination for global business. Returning international exhibitors also include Enterprise Ireland, the Irish Government’s export agency, returning for their 18th year, and exhibitors from countries including Australia, United States, United Kingdom, China and South Korea. “We’re also expecting a large number of international visitors, including student delegates from Oklahoma State University. It’s exciting to see international interest in the educational opportunities at Fieldays,” says Lindroos. Fieldays will offer the 25 agriculture students, along with a record number of booked domestic schools, a unique learning experience outside the classroom, allowing students to learn about agriculture, forestry, science, technology, and sustainability while exploring career pathways in these industries. The New Zealand International Business Centre (NZIBC) will provide face-to-face access to New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) and other government agencies, helping delegates and businesses understand the regulations, incentives, and support available for international companies seeking to connect with trade in New Zealand and vice versa. The NZIBC will also deliver two one-hour guided Innovation walking tours, and hold a range of seminars, including “Agritech in Latin America” and “New Zealand’s Role in International Food Security and Beyond.” Additionally, “Beyond the Diplomat” will be a seminar focusing on how women lead through complexity, particularly in an era of geopolitical change and an uncertain global trade environment. Lindroos said that equally impressive is the commitment of our regional and national exhibitors, who have prepared themselves and their sites over the past few weeks to showcase their latest products and services. “We have seen some extraordinary site builds taking shape. Exhibitors are putting a great deal of effort into their presence. It’s clear that this isn’t just about selling products. It’s about connecting people through stories.” Other Fieldays initiatives that provide opportunities to connect are the newly introduced Fieldays Tent Talks in association with the University of Waikato, on site D79, the Fieldays Innovation Awards, and the Fieldays® VIP Business Plus in association with KPMG. This lounge provides a central location within the event to utilise as a base and a comfortable space to continue business activity. From 11 – 14 June, Mystery Creek will be a global meeting place for all things agriculture, providing a platform for the exchange of business, ideas and innovations in New Zealand and around the world. For more information about Fieldays and the New Zealand International Business Centre visit fieldays.co.nz You can also stay up to date with any on the ground news by checking out the Fieldays LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok pages. ENDS CONTACTBrett Beagley l Marketing & Communications ManagerT +64 7 843 4497 l M +64 21 412 951 | E brett.beagley@nznfs.co.nz ABOUT FIELDAYS Held at Mystery Creek, Fieldays is the largest agricultural event in the Southern Hemisphere drawing people from around the world – both as exhibitors and visitors. Fieldays is run by the New Zealand National Fieldays Society, a charitable organisation founded in 1968 to advance agriculture and the primary industries. Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

At the 2025 “Grow Grass in the Colder Months” Field Day, New Zealand soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram delivered an insightful talk on how strategic foliar fertiliser application is transforming pasture-based farming. Hosted on-farm and designed as a practical “how-to” event, the day focused on helping farmers grow more, higher-quality pasture during the colder months, when traditional systems typically slow to a crawl. Dr Rajendram explained how foliar fertilisers, specifically Cold Grow, can be used to feed pasture directly through the leaf, delivering nutrients exactly when and where they’re needed. This method improves nitrogen uptake efficiency, reduces environmental loss, and supports continued pasture growth during cooler conditions. “Applying foliar fertiliser in winter means you’re not relying on soil temperatures to activate the nitrogen,” Dr Rajendram said. “You’re feeding the plant directly — it’s faster, more efficient, and leads to better results with less input.” He also highlighted how foliar nutrition supports soil biology by stimulating root exudates — the sugars plants release into the soil — which in turn feed microbes and improve overall soil health. The result is not just more grass, but better-quality pasture with higher nutrient density. The event also showcased the BA Sprayers LM Series and Brandt tractors from Power Farming, demonstrating how modern equipment makes foliar application practical and precise. A Q&A session followed, with Dr Rajendram joined by a farmer already using the foliar system and Mike Prendergast from BPM. Moderated by the event organiser Jolyon Ludbrook, the panel discussed real-world applications and gave attendees a chance to ask questions throughout. The goal was simple: ensure every farmer walked away with practical knowledge they could apply on their farm immediately — no purchases required. Dr Rajendram’s message was clear: with the right tools and timing, farmers can grow more grass in winter, reduce inputs, and build healthier soils — all while improving profitability and maintaining flexibility on-farm. How to Grow More Grass Efficiently with Dr Gordon Rajendram Unit N40 (extra kg DM per unit N applied over 40 days of growth) for the different seasons and regions using Granular Urea. Reference: G.S Rajendram et al (2009). Nitrogen Fertiliser Trial Base. Taken from 1272 Nitrogen Fertiliser Response trials throughout New Zealand over 80 years conducted by MAF and AgResearch. Why Choose Foliar? ✅ More yield per unit of nitrogen✅ Lower environmental loss✅ Faster uptake and response✅ Effective at lower application rates With mounting pressure to reduce nitrogen losses and improve input efficiency, foliar fertiliser offers a smarter, more sustainable solution for pasture management. Pasture growth (kg ha-1) from harvest one, 24 days after the fertiliser is applied. kg of Dry Matter produced per kg of N applied: Granular: 14kg Liquid (Foliar) UAN: 61kg Foliar is x 4 more efficient than Granular. About Dr Gordon RajendramDr Gordon Rajendram is a New Zealand-based soil scientist with over 40 years of experience in nutrient management and soil fertility. Formerly with AgResearch, he is widely respected for his work on improving nitrogen efficiency and sustainable farming practices.021 466 077 | rajendram@xtra.co.nz | www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz  Contact MediaPA 027 458 7724 phillip@mediapa.co.nz

According to New Zealand soil scientist Dr Gordon Rajendram, treated dairy effluent is far more than a waste product – it’s a valuable on-farm resource. When managed properly, this mixture of animal waste and wash-down water can significantly benefit soil health, reduce costs, and support more sustainable farming practices (DairyNZ, 2020). Environmentally, applying treated dairy effluent to pasture or cropland is an effective way to recycle key nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and trace elements. Instead of being lost to waterways – where they can cause pollution and algal blooms – these nutrients are returned to the soil (Ministry for the Environment, 2022). With proper application and timing, they stay within the root zone, boosting plant uptake and minimising leaching. The organic matter present in effluent also improves soil structure and microbial life, and can even contribute to increased soil carbon over time (AgResearch, 2021). The economic value is just as compelling. Studies from New Zealand and the UK suggest that effluent nutrients are worth $25–30 per cow annually (DairyNZ, 2020). By incorporating effluent into their nutrient budgeting, farmers can reduce reliance on synthetic fertilisers. One UK farmer saved up to 40% on his fertiliser bill by maximising the use of slurry nutrients (AHDB, 2021). Across a large herd, these savings add up substantially. From an agronomic perspective, effluent enhances soil moisture retention, aeration, and nutrient-holding capacity. The added organic matter supports healthier soils and more resilient pastures, while encouraging beneficial microbial activity (Teagasc, 2020). Dr Gordon Rajendram emphasises that responsible management is crucial. Effluent must be treated, stored, and applied according to best practice to avoid runoff and overloading. But when handled correctly, it transforms waste into a sustainable asset. As fertiliser prices rise and environmental regulations tighten, Dr Rajendram believes land application of effluent is not only smart farming – it’s essential. It’s a key step towards a more circular, cost-effective, and environmentally sound dairy industry. References Let me know if you’d like me to tailor the tone or format for a specific publication or audience. For more information, contact:Dr Gordon Rajendram📞 021 466077✉️ rajendram@xtra.co.nz🌐 www.gordonrajendramsoilscientist.co.nz Media Enquiries:Media PA – Phillip📞 027 458 7724✉️ phillip@mediapa.co.nz