Congratulations to Adam and Sharon Waite of Northbank Station, the deer farm surrounding the Mountain River plant, for receiving industry recognition this month for their on farm environmental work.
The Waites have won not just one, but two environment awards, which were presented at the recent Deer Industry conference in Wellington.
Firstlight Foods Ltd Award - For total commitment to farming sustainably with a strong customer focus.
NZDFA Next Generation Award - For outstanding performance across environmental, financial and social aspects of the business.
The Deer Farm Environmental Awards recognise businesses in the industry that actively participate in environmentally friendly and sustainable farming practices.
Various aspects of their farming practices impressed the judges, including:
The Waites’ planning of the re-development of the property bringing benefits to the livestock and farm business and, eventually, the farm environment. Planned changes include improved irrigation, pasture covers and planting of new native shelter-belts. New fruit trees and ornamentals will beautify the property and provide shade.
The judges were also impressed by:
Extensive documentation. FarmIQ has helped with recording, documentation and biosecurity with the frequent animal movements.
Involvement of the local community, including sourcing trees locally, a local beekeeper, local contractors and identifying the need for firewood for workers at the Mountain River venison factory.
The land is well suited to deer finishing.
Good management of the intricate relationship with Mountain River Venison, which can provide benefits but also challenges with scheduling of stock alongside cropping and feed management considerations.
Congratulations Adam and Sharon Waite on their achievement and their commitment to sustainable farming practices at Northbank Station.
Congratulations Adam and Sharon !