Trees on Farms Workshop: Maximising Marginal Land Use

14 June 2012

Trees on Farms Workshop: Maximising Marginal Land Use

20 June 2012

Ngāti Awa Group Holdings – Ohope

A Trees on Farms workshop particularly designed for Maori landowners and farmers taking an inter-generational view of their land management options is being held in Ohope on Wednesday 20 June.

This workshop will focus on in the opportunities and benefits trees can provide in developing management for the marginal or less productive parts of the farm, and those attending will be able to discuss tree planting options with Maori land owners, experienced farm foresters and regional council staff.

The workshop and field trip will feature the Ohope property of Ngāti Awa Group Holdings, looking at trees as an intergenerational land management tool providing sustainable agribusiness solutions and enhancing long term land use.

The Ohope farm, which totals about 680 hectares effective, will winter 2,700 ewes, 650-odd ewe hoggets and approximately 840 cattle this year. For nearly two decades there have been extensive tree plantings on the property, designed to protect steep and erosion-prone country. Roading work is currently being completed ready for the harvesting of 120 ha of eucalypts this coming summer and the farm has several areas that have been planted in pines and other species.

Specifically designed by knowledgeable, experienced tree planting farmers and Agfirst consultants to meet local needs, this unique workshop looks at trees as an integral component of agribusiness:

Trees in the farm business: How integrated land use strategies spread risk - and cash flow – and deliver both short-term and inter-generational benefits.

Trees as a land management strategy: Wise land use and “fit for purpose” planting - erosion control, riparian management and water quality, weed control, managing trouble spots and erosion, and protecting valuable soils.

Trees for animal welfare: Trees for shelter and fodder, managing waterways.
ends

© Scoop Media