Back in 2007, Dairy NZ worked with farmers and the New Zealand Farm Environment Trust to create the Dairy Environment Leaders Network. Now there are about 400 environmentally focused farmers in this network, which empowers leadership and creates opportunities to support on-farm actions and reduce environmental footprints.
Andrew Booth, alongside his wife Vicky, is transforming the paradigm of farming by intertwining agricultural practices with environmentalism, showcasing their commitment to ecological harmony through actions such as planting native trees and enhancing biodiversity along the Mangakāhia River.
One of the salient points Booth shares is from his participation in a Wellington forum, where he and other dairy farmers convened to discuss industry leadership and sustainable farming techniques.
He expresses the event's impact, saying, "It was a really empowering couple of days... just inspiring us to do a really big year."
This encapsulates the collaborative spirit and drive to innovate within the dairy community, especially regarding greenhouse gas reduction and waterway protection. Booth's hands-on experience in planting trees and creating biodiverse environments on his farm has led to remarkable outcomes, not only in river health but also in the resurgence of native wildlife.
"We've always been really lucky with this farm... the amount of native wildlife that starts to come back," he reflects, illustrating the tangible benefits of his environmental endeavours.
His approach also includes educational components, engaging local schools and communities in understanding and contributing to these efforts.
The conversation then pivots to the importance of community connections, where Booth emphasises the shared values and goals between farmers, urban dwellers, and indigenous groups. He articulates the necessity of fostering understanding through connection, leading to united progress.
"Once you've got the understanding, everyone starts to work on the same page... it's just a matter of bringing everyone on board to that same," he states, underscoring the significance of collaboration for a sustainable future.
This conversation serves as an insightful narrative on how traditional farming can evolve with ecological awareness and how industry stakeholders can bridge the gap between preserving the environment and maintaining a thriving agricultural business.
Andrew Booth's story is a beacon for others in the industry, proving that sustainable practices and community involvement can lead to a more promising future for both the land and those who rely on it.
Listen to the full chat between Andrew Booth and Dominic George above.
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