About the West Coast Farm Plan Project
Since its establishment in 2008, the West Coast Focus Farm Trust has aimed to promote effective and sustainable farm management practices and support the education of farmers. Thanks to a successful application to the Ministry for Primary Industries Integrated Farm Planning Accelerator Fund, the Trust has partnered with the industry to launch the West Coast Farm Plan Project.
The project's approach involves in-person workshops followed by personalised on farm sessions, which help farmers confidently develop and implement their plans. By tailoring these plans to individual businesses, the initiative seeks to improve farm operations, enhance resource management, and protect the environment.
The core objective of the project is to equip farmers with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate changing requirements and create their individual farm plans.
The Whataroa Pilot:
The Project stems from a successful pilot conducted in Whataroa in early 2022. This pilot included 16 farms engaged in dairy, beef, lamb, and deer systems. It combined online resources, workshops, and farm visits to cover essential aspects of freshwater farm planning. The steering group, consisting of DairyNZ, Westland Milk Products, Beef and Lamb, Deer Industry NZ, Development West Coast, West Coast Regional Council, and Ministry for Primary Industries, provided valuable input and guidance. However, the success of the pilot depended on the insights and dedication of the participating farmers.
Regional and Cross-Sector Collaboration:
A dedicated industry network meets monthly to support the project and encourage collaboration across sectors. Partnerships with Westland Milk Products, Beef and Lamb, DairyNZ, Deer Industry NZ, Landcare Trust, PAMU, Ballance, and Ministry for Primary Industry ensure the project offers comprehensive support and guidance to farmers. Close cooperation with the West Coast Regional Council ensures alignment with regulatory standards.
Our mission
A farmer led and farmer focused initiative set up to facilitate the development of farm plans for all West Coast farmers.
Working together to support West Coast farmers
We'll help you form your plan, Got a question? Get in touch today!
Project Manager
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