Farm planning is a whole lot more than a tick box compliance exercise .

Farm Environment Plans (FEP’s) have historically been referred to as a tick box exercise, especially when used for compliance where there are often literal ticks next to the practices implemented. FEP’s have evolved and we have learnt that a tailored approach, encompassing more than current compliance, is required to educate, drive progress and implement change.  

Figure 1. Farm Map example identifying areas of development.

Farm Environment Plans have improved practices throughout Canterbury and areas in Southland predominantly through regulation accelerating the uptake. The Essential Freshwater Package requires the majority of New Zealand farmers to have a farm plan.  Future FEP’s will need to include incoming requirements such as He Waka Eke Noa - this has necessitated the opportunity for whole farm systems plans that benefit the farm business as well as satisfying regulatory requirements.

The AgriBusiness Group has developed a number of farm plans in various formats.  We recognise farm plans need to describe a farms uniqueness, be something that aids opportunities and ensures compliance with regional and/or government regulation.

We understand there cannot be a one size fits all approach to farm plans.  The increased emphasis on these plans means we need to add to the tools in the toolbox.  This means empowering farmers to achieve environmental outcomes whilst developing or maintaining a profitable business.

Successful plans should be flexible – with the ability to add tools applicable to the farm system for increased optimisation. Tools include: Overseer FM for nutrient management, Green House Gas tools and Carbon Accounting.

For example; a farm that is currently being developed requires a different strategic overview to a steady state compared with a farm facing high Nitrogen reductions. Farm plans add more value to farmers by mapping contributing layers including: soils, land use class and significant biodiversity areas.  

It is important the farm plan describes mitigations required to decrease the inherent and managerial risks in the context of the catchment.  Additionally, farm management practices should be written in a way to incorporate targets to reach productivity, family and environmental goals.  

To find out more contact Amelia. Written by Amelia Wood.