Collaborative Research for Advanced Soil Analysis
A recent study, funded by the Our Land and Water National Science Challenge, has introduced a groundbreaking soil health testing method in New Zealand. This innovative approach, developed jointly by AgResearch and Ravensdown, was applied to assess soil quality at various Ngāi Tahu Farming sites in Canterbury.
Holistic Testing Approach
Dr Ants Roberts, Ravensdown’s chief scientist, highlighted the comprehensive nature of this new testing method. Unlike traditional nutrient-focused tests, this holistic approach provides a more in-depth analysis of soil health, encompassing soil fertility, organic matter, physical condition, and biological activity. The method allows for effective long-term monitoring and can be easily implemented on-farm.
Case Study at Ngāi Tahu Farming Sites
The study involved testing soil samples from five different sites, including areas of forestry and irrigated dairy pasture recently converted from forestry. This diverse range of sites enabled a thorough evaluation of the new testing method’s effectiveness in identifying the unique needs of different soils and their complexities.
Understanding and Managing Soil Health
The study’s findings underscore the importance of a broad range of indicators in understanding and managing soils across all pasture systems.
Dr Roberts emphasised the complexity of gauging soil health due to the variability across different soils and the multitude of factors contributing to their health. The new approach addresses these challenges, offering a clear and functional picture of soil health that was previously unavailable.
Collaboration Between AgResearch and Ravensdown
The innovative testing methodology is the result of a collaboration between AgResearch’s research expertise in soil biology and Ravensdown’s knowledge of soil fertility and landscapes.
Dr Nicole Schon, a Scientist in Soil Biology at AgResearch and an author of the study, stressed the importance of this partnership in developing a more comprehensive understanding of soil health.
Impact on Agricultural Practices and Long-Term Productivity
The collaborative effort aimed to evaluate the potential impact of Ngāi Tahu Farming’s current agricultural practices on soil fertility and health.
The goal is to ensure long-term land productivity for future generations. Matthew Keen, General Manager of Ngāi Tahu Farming, expressed that the study has provided valuable insights into improving environmental outcomes and enhancing soil health at their North Canterbury sites.
Commitment to Sustainable Farming
Ngāi Tahu Farming is committed to building healthy soil as a foundation for sustainable farming. The company focuses on rebuilding soil for future land use and protecting water and traditional food gathering sites. Keen believes that measurable scientific solutions, like those delivered by this study, will offer long-term benefits in their pursuit of a more sustainable farming system.
