44 | Providing support through smarter farming Ange Davidson A science led approach to soil fertility, smarter technologies on farm and a great team of agri-managers and environmental consultants from Kaitaia to Bluff, are helping Ravensdown interconnect farmer’s productivity and sustainability. Gary Bowick, General Manager Sales and Marketing acknowledges that the challenge for Ravensdown is to support farmers to be more productive and to get better performance from their land while providing help with ongoing sustainable best practices on-farm. “There is a dichotomy going on where we need to support our customers at both ends of the spectrum. We are trying to interconnect productivity and sustainability,” says Gary. “We’re here to support good people doing their best every day in what can only be described as very challenging times.” As no two farms are the same, Ravensdown’s team of agri-managers are actively working with farmers around the country to ensure they get what’s needed for their specific farming operation. Soil tests are taken and sent to ARL, Ravensdown’s testing laboratory. The agri-manager will then sit with the farmer to go over the results and make the most effective fertiliser recommendations to put the right product, in the right amount, in the right place at the right time. “Our agri-managers are the face of Ravensdown, and we really encourage our people to live in and be involved in the local communities they work in,” says Gary. “We also have 30 plus environmental consultants visiting farms throughout the country who will sit with farmers and help prepare a farm environmental plan. We fully expect fertiliser sales to continue to decline over time but that our environmental and sustainability work will become increasingly more important for our customers.” More farmers are getting to grips with new technology and how they can help improve their farming practises. Technology like HawkEye farm mapping is helping farmers make smarter decisions for better farm and environmental outcomes. “There is a huge opportunity in technology and we’re seeing more young people, the sons and daughters of farmers, thirsty for this. They want to look at their phones and get instant information or be able to order product while out working on farm,” he says. Taking a more collaborative approach to creating new technology amongst other industry players will also benefit farmers who can be overwhelmed by the range of products being marketed to them. Ravensdown are working closely with other industry leaders to keep innovating and show leadership in the technology area and wider agricultural industry. “Farmers are managing challenges on multiple fronts, and we are supporting them so that they can RURAL PEOPLE » Ravensdown “Farmers are managing challenges on multiple fronts, and we are supporting them so that they can do what they do best and farm with confidence in the future.” do what they do best and farm with confidence in the future. We want to enhance their productivity and production on farm but also support them with their sustainable practices, particularly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving water quality,” says Gary. Ravensdown has worked hard for surety of supply during unprecedented global volatility over the past 12 months and the impact of Covid-19 on shipping which have resulted in unprecedented upward pricing pressure. Throw into the mix a wetter, albeit warmer winter, and Gary agrees it’s a been a tough time for farmers in general. There’s so many challenges coming at our customers however we are stand ready to support them shoulder to shoulder.” Proud to support Ravensdown 06 2745 852 2118 Skeet Road, R.D. 28, Hawera 4678 Agricultural Contractors - Levin Contact Garry 027 232 2380 Rowan 027 452 2562 Serving the Horowhenua since 1924 • Fertiliser spreading • Cultivation • All bulk silage requirements • Round baling & wrapping • Bulk cartage • Square baling & wrapping • Hay - large rounds / large squares • Stockists of Hatuma Lime • Ravensdown consignment store with certified weigh bridge SERVICES OFFERED: • Tracmap proof of placement • Spreadmark Certi ed Contact us today! Your local certified spreading specialists! Mob: 021 134 8514 A/Hrs: 03 314 8157 Email: spreadncltd@farmside.co.nz Agri Manager Mary Thomas with Peter Hancox.
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