| 27 As chair of the Hurunui District Landcare Group, Ian is keenly aware of the broader challenges facing farmers. MEAT & WOOL » Glenmark Springs www.hurunuilandcaregroup.co.nz Billy Bartrum Catchment Farm Advisor - Lower Hurunui M: 027 212 2322 E: billy@hurunuilandcaregroup.co.nz Joshua Brown Catchment Farm Advisor – Upper Hurunui M: 027 774 7778 E: Josh@hurunuilandcaregroup.co.nz Harry Millar Catchment Farm Advisor - Western Hurunui M: 027 774 7770 E: harry@hurunuilandcaregroup.co.nz OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Farm Environment Plans • Nutrient Budgets • Winter grazing plans • General advice on environmental regulations and how they might apply • Developing/updating farm maps, providing tear-off pads, laminate maps and whiteboards • Water quality data & Stream Health assessments • Assistance with NZFAP+ and supplier accreditation • Audit support • Help with funding applications for group and individual farm projects SUPPORTING FARMERS IN THE HURUNUI Contact one of our Catchment farm advisors John Holmes Catchment Farm Advisor - Lower Hurunui M: 027 774 7772 E: john@hurunuilandcaregroup.co.nz In the face of mounting challenges such as drought, evolving environmental regulations and economic pressures, farmers in North Canterbury's Hurunui District are finding a valuable support from the Hurunui District Landcare Group (HDLG). The farmer-driven organisation, established in 2016, has grown from 133 members to over 300 in just six years, offering a range of services to help local farmers navigate the complex world of modern farming. "We're here to support farmers operate sustainable businesses and help them front foot environmental regulation," says Billy Bartrum, catchment farm advisor and project manager for HDLG. HDLG's services are comprehensive, addressing both immediate needs and long-term sustainability goals. Catchment farm advisors provide support, offering assistance with Farm Environment Plans, nutrient budgets, and winter grazing plans. "We provide advice on environmental regulations and how they might apply to individual farms," says Billy. The group's practical approach extends to developing and updating farm maps, complete with tear-off pads, laminated copies, and whiteboards for easy planning. It also conducts water quality data analysis and stream health assessments, crucial for understanding and maintaining the district's natural resources. For farmers seeking industry certifications and premiums, HDLG offers assistance with the New Zealand Farm Assurance Programme Plus and other supplier accreditation programmes. HDLG member Pip Foster has made full use of the services on offer. “The support offered through HDLG was instrumental in my farm achieving New Zealand Farm Assurance + Gold accreditation without a lot of extra work,” she says. Billy adds that the group also provides audit support, ensuring members are well prepared for regulatory inspections. A key aspect of HDLG's work is helping farmers access funding for projects. "For example we've just gone through a funding application for one of our sub catchment groups to access more traps for pest trapping which will contribute to the enhancement of native biodiversity and regeneration within the catchment,” explains Billy. HDLG is currently running a two-year project funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries. This initiative aims to provide environmental management guidance and resources to members and the wider Hurunui farming community. Billy invites farmers in the region to get in touch to find out how the group can assist them with their farming operation. “By offering practical services, advocating for farmers' interests, and promoting sustainable practices, HDLG is helping to ensure that Hurunui’s farms remains vibrant and resilient for generations to come.” SUPPORTING THE HURUNUI DISTRICT
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=