Biodiversity

Biodiversity is the diversity of all living things in an area. In New Zealand when we talk about biodiversity we are generally referring to Native Biodiversity, meaning animals that came to New Zealand without human assistance and also the plants, fungi and all other parts of the living system that found their own way to New Zealand. 

In a farming production system biodiversity needs space and has land use values in its own right such as providing ecosystem services which provide benefits such as clean air and fresh water. Within an intensive production system, it can be challenging to have space to put aside for biodiversity which is where it is important to look at ways to integrate biodiversity into your production system including shelterbelts for livestock, strategic wetlands or maintaining drainage ditches (plant with carex grass and avoid using sprays so that you create healthy water for fresh fish).

• These options can be integrated into the farm layout to provide shade and shelter which improves welfare for stock as well as production performance, and also reduce the effect of wind and storms on pasture performance and help grass growth. This is especially important as we get more extreme weather.
• By integrating biodiversity into the landscape, you can help offset GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions by sequestering carbon. As plants grow they absorb carbon, which allows the farmer to offset the GHGs produced from the farming operation.
• Well placed areas of biodiversity can also increase resale values of land and increase staff mental health and enjoyment of the workplace.
• Another place we can integrate biodiversity into the farming landscape is through freshwater management, where trees, shrubs and wetlands can filter and absorb excess nitrogen and phosphorus.