Case Studies

As a dairy farmer, there are two things you can’t control: milk prices and the weather. That’s why Stuart Neill focuses on building resilience across his farm - reducing vulnerability to the risks he can’t influence.

When milk prices are low, Stu doesn’t chase volume with expensive supplements or higher stocking rates. Instead, he maximises net profitability by growing as much grass as possible at minimal cost. Canterbury’s ideal climate helps, but careful management of pasture species, irrigation, fertiliser, and soil is what makes it work. Staying mostly grass-fed also shields him from fluctuations in supplement prices and greenhouse gas factors, while creating opportunities for price premiums.

For Ben Croft, a simple conversation about reducing on-farm greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions quickly turned into a bigger opportunity - lifting productivity and efficiency across every corner of the farm.

Ben became involved with the Nestlé/Fonterra Partnership Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Farmer Support Pilot during the 2023/24 season. This industry initiative aims to lower GHG emissions and improve environmental practices on dairy farms. The goal was to reduce cow numbers while maintaining or lifting milk solids production. With methane-reducing technology still largely out of reach, the focus turned to what could be controlled - smarter management practices and getting the most from what you’ve got.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROJECTS LEAD
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