LWAG Seminar Series Kick-Starts with Biological Farming Systems

The Taupo Lakes and Waterways Action Group (LWAG) Trust started their Seminar series for 2012 with the relevant topic on 'Biological farming research in New Zealand' and how it could improve the water quality in sensitive areas such as Rotorua and Taupo. The seminar was chaired by Dr Brian Robinson, a scientist and environmental sustainability advocate.

The first seminar was presented by Dr Guna Magesan who is the Science Leader at the New Zealand Biological Farming Systems Research Centre in Rotorua. He said the interest in, and support for, biological farming is growing in New Zealand and it is an undeniable fact.

Dr Magesan added that New Zealand scientists need to be open-minded and do applied research based on observations that have been reported by farmers employing biological farming practices. He emphasised that farmers are 'good observers' and their observations need to be taken seriously. At the end of the day, New Zealand stands to benefit from sustainable farming practices.

While speaking about the first national conference on biological farming systems, Dr Magesan said that it was a turning point and the presentations by practicing biological farmers and consultants aroused the greatest interest because they brought real life experiences of commercially-managed biological farms to the so called “conventional farmers”, consultants and scientists.

Jane Penton, Secretary of LWAG said she was happy with the turn out and the wide variety of stakeholders who participated in the seminar. The attendees included: Secretary of Taupo Lake Care – a farming group; Councillor, and area manager from Waikato Regional Council; representatives of Forest and Bird; Māori incorporations related to Tuwharetoa; community liaison person from Mighty River Power; Contact Energy; fertiliser companies; policy analysts; local farmers and horticulturists, and a retired GP interested in water quality biology/science.

The presentation was followed by further questions and a discussion on the possible benefits of biological farming in the Taupo catchment. LWAG Trustee and local farmer, Judith McGrath reported on improved animal health on both her sheep and venison run and her son’s deer farm after incorporating biological soil applications specific to her farming needs. It was observed that the problem weed ragwort also disappeared in a very short time.

Gifford McFadden said more research is required for biological farming on different land uses and the second national conference on biological farming systems may focus on different land uses which should be of interest to Taupo landowners.

The LWAG Trust was set up in 1997 by a group of community members interested in taking care of Lake Taupo. Their vision is to be a leading advocate for the protection of Lake Taupo-nui-a-Tia and its waterways and other local catchment environments. They believe community advocacy is essential towards ensuring the success of the Lake Taupō Protection Project as well as good environmental outcomes in this district.

The LWAG meets on the last Wednesday of every month at 5.10 pm at the Taupo Yacht Club.

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