| 17 nzdairy DAIRY PEOPLE » Dairy Holdings Ltd A key element in the company’s sustainability strategy is its commitment to a 100% pasture-based system. SPREADING MAINLAND Aoraki’s Crop Truck following single tyre tram lines out to 32m. KYLIE 027 484 7646 141 Weston - Ngapara Road, Oamaru 03 439 5501 | kylie@mainlandgs.co.nz Mainland Spreading is redefining fertiliser application through cutting-edge technology and increased precision. It has just introduced Spikey, a ground breaking solution that can help farmers cut nitrate leaching by up to 30% by targeting urine patches. “Urine patches contain a lot of nitrogen and they do not need fertiliser applied nitrogen,” explains Kylie Stenton, team leader from Mainland Spreading. “Extra urine patch growth uses nitrogen, thus reducing N available for leaching and greenhouse gas emission. Using these concepts, the Spikey Solution, locates and treats fresh urine patches while applying liquid nitrogen to the intra urine pasture. The technology is backed by extensive research, with Pastoral Robotics investing in soil science through partnerships with institutions like AgResearch and Massey University.” She says it is part of Mainland Spreading’s core philosophy of helping its customers find solutions to their farming challenges. “Most of their clients are dairy and dairy support farmers who are increasingly concerned about environmental regulations. We're making sure we understand our customers' expectations and investing in the right technology,”says Kylie. Operating across Aoraki and Otago, Mainland Spreading is the result of a joint venture formed in 2015 between the Schultz family and Ravensdown. Unlike traditional spreading approaches, it offers farmers unprecedented precision in fertiliser application. “Precision ag means less inputs and more outputs,” say Kylie. She says Variable Rate Application for example allows farmers to apply fertiliser more strategically, using less nitrogen and phosphate in areas like effluent paddocks while optimising application in more productive zones. The company also uses technologies such as farm mapping and soil testing, uploading precise information directly to truck computers. This allows for the inclusion of exclusion zones, which save farmers money and are also better for the environment as fertiliser is only applied where it should be. After completing a job, farmers can access detailed Proof of Placement maps as part of their nutrient management records. Environmental considerations are at the forefront of its operations and helping farmers maximise their fertiliser application and budgets. The company's commitment to industry collaboration is important in helping it to deliver the right solutions to clients. It actively works with other spreading companies in North Otago and participates in national ground spread industry initiatives. “This collaborative approach reflects a broader understanding that addressing agricultural challenges requires collective effort,” says Kylie. A true family business, Mainland Spreading’s daily operations are run by Kylie and husband James with parents John and Nivonne still playing a vital role as director and primary specialist hill driver. Kylie says their agricultural background provides them with unique insights into farmer requirements, setting them apart in a competitive industry. “Spreading fertiliser is what we do but what we specialise in is adding value to farmers’ businesses.” Fertiliser application with cutting-edge technology
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