New Publications Support Opihi Project.
Three new publications have been released as part of NZ Landcare Trust's Opihi Water Project in Canterbury. They provide
useful, practical information on planting native species, sediment traps and winter crop preparation.
NZ Landcare Trust Regional Coordinator Phil Keene explained "These publications feature case studies of local farmers who are critically examining their on-going farm practice with
the aim of improving both production and the environmental footprint."
The riparian planting guide includes essential information such the general benefits of planting and 'how to' tips.
However this guide also goes a step further and specifies plants that are suitable for the stream or water margins,
under irrigation pivots and also what works best for the plains, downs and high country in the OOP Zone.
"Riparian planting should be treated as any other practice on the farm - plan to get it right first time - and manage
planting in incremental steps to ensure success, this will also make maintenance easier!"Phil added.
NZ Landcare Trust has responded to requests from farmers who attended field days for information on sediment traps and
winter crop preparation. The new publications are designed to help farmers to plan and deliver really effective,
sustainable change. Full of practical information both guides encourage farmers to get together and share knowledge.
Phil points out "Like all things, be prepared to ask those who have 'been there and done that' to ensure you get the right result. The
openness and willingness to learn and share at the field days has been fantastic."
These three new resources work in conjunction with the recent Good Management Practice poster and provides valuable
information that will be applicable to farmers in other catchments too. The Trust will continue to work with farmers and
develop further practical guides to assist with 'action on the ground'.
NZ Landcare Trust is delivering this project with co-cash funding from the Sustainable Farming Fund, Rabobank, and Deer
NZ.
Information about the project along with downloadable versions of the publications can be found on the Opihi Project page>
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