40 | Mark and Elspeth Thomson recognised Elspeth and Mark Thomson of Lora Glen. Emma Bailey Implementing changes along the way to protect the land have led to Mark and Elspeth Thomson of Lora Glen in the Lora Gorge being the proud recipients of two sustainability awards at the Southland Ballance Farm Environment Awards. The New Zealand Farm Environment Trust is behind the annual awards which were announced on April 1, with the couple taking home the Environment Southland Water Quality and Biodiversity Award and the Ministry for the Environment Biodiversity Award. Lora Glen is a 353ha (258ha effective) dairy grazing and sheep and beef operation located in the picturesque Lora Gorge, Central Southland. They run a maximum of 800 cattle and a few sheep and are increasing the productive land through strategic drainage and fencing. The judges noted the couple’s overarching goal had always been to bring the farm up to full productivity while having a light touch on the native environment. The Thomsons were absolutely delighted with the recognition. “To pick up both the sustainability awards was a real statement from the judges and that was not lost on us,” Mark said. “We didn’t volunteer ourselves, we were nominated. When the judges came they found us as we are. We didn’t dress things up. We do the minor things we can do and do it in steps” “We found the feedback was really positive. They didn’t suggest any major changes, just carry on, making small tweaks here and there, we were totally blown away by the feedback from the community which has been amazing,” Elspeth added. Water quality is an issue the couple are very aware of. Currently they run a hot wire around waterways to exclude stock access but plan to fence more permanently going forward. “We recognise we are only custodians on this farm but are keen to make our mark in a positive way,” Mark added. They are also actively involved in the Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group, which is undertaking an extensive feral ungulate control project. “It’s a privilege to be sharing a leadership role, they are a great, forward-thinking bunch of people to be involved with” Mark said. The judges noted their exceptional land stewardship, praising the active control of feral deer and pigs, with possums and gorse on the radar too. There is significant deer fencing to minimise feral deer incursions. They also plan to protect about one-third of the property under a QEII Trust covenant, Elspeth said The Ballance Farm Environment Awards » Lora Glen work was well advanced in this space. Judges commended this dedication, alongside their use of consultants and sustainability professionals, calling their work a prime example of exceptional pasture management and stewardship. The couple have built strong relationships with the regional council, especially when they started out, Mark said. “We used a lot of their resources and built up strong relationships we still have today. They have always been encouraging and have become part of our inner circle. “A lot of farmers are changing their mindsets about water quality, it’s not hard to maintain water quality, it just requires some minor tweaking and there is so much information provided on how to do it.” “We recognise we are only custodians on this farm but are keen to make our mark in a positive way.” Working with you for happy, healthy and productive animals in the south. 24/7 EMERGENCY CARE Brett : 027 329 2698 heidiandbrett@hotmail.co.nz PADDOCK BY PADDOCK. CORNER BY CORNER. Using our in-depth knowledge of customers’ land, businesses and objectives, we tailor highly specific solutions that differ from farm to farm, even paddock to paddock. To ensure these agronomy-led solutions stay on track for success, we also regularly walk the crops corner to corner to make recommendations along the way. To find out more go to catalystag.co.nz Proudly Supporting Lora Glen Farm
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