New Zealand farmers 'must take more responsibility' over soil quality

New Zealand farmers are being asked to take more responsibility over soil quality in the region, with a prominent Poverty Bay cropping farmer saying harvesters should make tough decision to stop harvesting prevent long-term soil damage.

David Clark who farms Opou Station at Manutuke has recently spoken out about the impact of modern farming equipment on the quality of the land. Heavy equipment on wet soil can cause long-term structural damage by compacting the ground and making it difficult for water to drain the soil.

He added that if farmers keep making the wrong calls over their land, there could be lasting damage that may lead to government legislation in the area. In this way, processors, harvesters, lessees, landowners and tractor drivers need to take more care deciding when to restart harvesting after prolonged wet periods.

Mr Clark said: "It is amazing the difference two or three days makes in allowing surface water to drain through the profile. The moisture is still there and damage will continue to be done, but by allowing time, the structural strength of the soil steadily increases enough to carry harvest machinery."

Posted by Joseph Hutton