| 17 Setting the standard for boron application The company continues to educate forest managers and farmers on the importance of boron application. Kelly Deeks For more than four decades, McCord Forest Services has pioneered the use of boron to enhance tree health and maximise yield, setting the standard for boron application in forestry and ensuring New Zealand’s forests remain healthy, resilient, and economically viable for generations to come. McCord Forest Services is deeply rooted in the forestry industry, with a legacy spanning 45 years. The company was instrumental in identifying hydroboracite as the ideal boron fertiliser for New Zealand’s naturally boron-deficient soils. Today, its flagship product, Andebor, remains the most trusted hydroboracite fertiliser among major forestry producers. Today, under the leadership of Joanna Wood, the company continues to educate forest managers and farmers on the importance of boron application before deficiencies lead to irreversible damage. “Since I’ve been at the helm over the past decade, forestry management has shifted from a reactive approach to a proactive one,” Joanna says. “People used to only apply boron after noticing deficiency symptoms. Now, they are conducting preventative tests on their forests to ensure boron levels are sufficient before any damage occurs.” Boron is essential for the development of healthy trees. A deficiency can result in the death of the main leader, which is the central, dominant stem of a tree, compromising both structural integrity and economic value. When the leader dies, the tree cannot produce a strong and sizable butt log, reducing its market potential. “You want to get the lower trunk as big and strong as possible to add value,” Joanna says. Joanna inherited her passion for boron from her father, Andy McCord, a respected Forest scientist and industry expert, his dedication earned him the nickname ‘Dr. Boron.’ His work with the New Zealand Forestry Service and Carter Holt Harvey cemented his reputation as a leading authority on boron application in tree growth. Andy dedicated more than 30 years to researching boron’s effects, contributing to ground breaking forestry trials in the 1980s and 1990s. His work not only proved the mineral’s role in strengthening the cellular structure, but also demonstrated its ability protect from diseases. Before his sudden passing, Andy made it clear he wanted Joanna to carry on his life’s work. FORESTRY » McCord Forest Services Ltd She took the helm in 2014 and has since expanded the company’s reach, advocating for the proactive use of boron across the forestry and farming sectors. “Boron is the only micronutrient consistently applied for tree nutrition, and it’s absolutely vital.” Many farmers are now integrating forestry into their land use strategies due to the profit volatility of farming. “By planting trees on less productive land and taking advantage of the ETS, farmers are seeing forestry as a practical and strategic investment,” Joanna says. Her advice for farmers planning to harvest their trees? “Get a foliage analysis. It will tell you whether your trees have the nutrients they need to thrive through a full rotation.” And for those noticing weak or struggling trees? Aerial agricultural services • • Charter tours • Hunting & fishing info “Get a foliage analysis. February and March are the ideal months to check nutrient levels accurately. If a deficiency is detected, you can address it before it impacts on growth.” Joanna has collated Dr Boron’s knowledge into a book that she posts out to eager learners free of charge. Should you like a book posted email Joanna at joanna@mccord.co.nz
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