Silage pit

Free South Canterbury events to support sustainable farming practices

Date:
Category: Events | Land Use | Farming
Zone(s): Lower Waitaki  

If you're a farmer in South Canterbury, join us for two free, hands-on events in Glenavy this month to strengthen effluent and silage pit management skills, improve compliance, and support long-term environmental sustainability.

Designed as part of our Set for Spring series, the sessions will provide practical tools you can apply immediately on-farm.

Effluent management event details

Effluent management remains a critical component of responsible dairy farming, protecting soil structure, freshwater ecosystems, and groundwater quality.

At this hands-on event, you will learn how to:

  • Calculate correct irrigation depths and rates.
  • Improve effluent pond management.
  • Create practical effluent management plans.
  • Strengthen record keeping and staff training for FEP audits.
  • Use technology such as leak detection tools, pulse irrigation systems, and fail-safe automation.

These improvements help reduce nitrogen loss, increase system reliability, and support Farm Environment Plan (FEP) compliance across Waitaha Canterbury’s dairy sector.

Silage pit management event details

The second workshop focuses on silage pit management, an increasingly important area for farms working to minimise nutrient loss and protect waterways.

Topics include:

  • What good silage storage and drainage looks like.
  • How to avoid common silage pit mistakes.
  • Best practice for leachate capture and runoff control.
  • How silage management ties into effluent storage calculations and compliance.

Effective silage pit design and maintenance can significantly reduce environmental impact, especially in regions such as South Canterbury with sensitive groundwater systems.

Led by recognised dairy and sustainability expert

Both sessions will be led by Donna McBeath, a respected expert with decades of experience in the dairy and environmental sectors. Her work spans roles with DairyNZ, local councils, engineering firms, and as an independent contractor supporting farmers with practical, science-based solutions.

Supporting long-term environmental outcomes

Southern water and land team leader Nikki Jenkins said the events are a valuable opportunity for farmers to stay ahead of practices. 

“We’re seeing increasing emphasis on evidence-based environmental practices. These sessions are designed to be practical, relevant, and immediately useful on-farm.

“The workshops are about giving farmers the tools to make informed decisions that benefit both their operations and the environment. Small changes in how effluent or silage is managed can make a big difference to water quality and compliance outcomes.”

Attendance at either workshop can be used as evidence of staff training during FEP audits, making them a valuable opportunity for farmers committed to improving environmental outcomes on their properties.  

Register for Glenavy events

Book your place at the events: Contact land management advisor Jess Cochrane on 027 272 0381 or email jess.cochrane@ecan.govt.nz.

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