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Otago Agroforestry

Integrating Future Ready® thinking enabled a holistic approach to farm resilience for an Otago Agroforestry project.

Project Description

In 2023, a forward-thinking farm owner in Central Otago engaged WSP’s Primary Industries team to help future proof her farming system. Facing anticipated reductions in irrigation volumes due to regulatory changes, the farm was vulnerable to low rainfall (530mm annually), poor soil water retention, and exposure to strong winds and hot summers.

Client brief / Project challenges

WSP worked closely with the client to understand her goals and aspirations for the future, including:

  • Optimising rainfall and solar radiation for pasture growth
  • Enhancing soil microbe diversity to support nutrient cycling
  • Reducing reliance on fossil fuels in farm operations

In collaboration with the farmer, WSP co-designed an agroforestry system tailored to the farm’s unique conditions. Tree species were selected not only for their resilience in dry, windy environments but also for their ability to support bee populations and provide shelter and forage for livestock. The planting plan was brought to life through visual renderings and a “walk amongst the trees” video experience. This customised video promotes farming excellence and facilitates communication of the project’s vision to workers, management, and potential investors through an immersive experience.

WSP is a pioneer in agroforestry design in New Zealand. This innovative agroforestry project ensures the farm system will be able to adapt to future climate needs.

Our team is working closely with clients to integrate trees onto farms, helping them become Future Ready®. By combining practical farm system knowledge with forestry expertise, the possibilities are endless!
Dr Sandra
Dr. Sandra Velarde-Pajares
Technical Principal - Bioeconomy Innovation
New Zealand
Contact
Kyle Willis
Kyle Wills
Primary Industries Consultant - Farming Systems
New Zealand
Contact

Location

  • Otago, New Zealand

Project Status

  • Complete: August 2023

Our Future Ready® solution

Design response

The agroforestry system was designed with Future Ready® principles at its core. Tree species were chosen for their ability to thrive in low-rainfall, high-wind environments. Addressing future trends such as increased drought frequency and a heightened need for water management will improve irrigation efficiency and soil moisture retention. The agroforestry system will also help provide shelter for livestock to reduce heat stress from an expected increase in the number of hot days in the region.

Local community benefits

Through collaboration with local nurseries and leveraging the expertise of WSP farming experts, the project showcases the power of cross-sector partnerships in achieving innovative solutions.
 
img_PP Otago Agroforestry Dryland_rows_groundlevel
img_PP Otago Agroforestry Dryland_rows_45degreeview

Project benefits

Integrating Future Ready® thinking enabled a holistic approach to farm resilience. The system supports climate adaptation, enhances the working environment, and promotes sustainable farming practices. The agroforestry system not only reduces the farm’s environmental impact but also sets a foundation for future positive adaptations, ensuring the farm’s resilience and sustainability.
Winner: Best Display of Future Ready®, Annual Matariki Award. This innovative project exemplifies excellence in sustainable farming practices and demonstrates the team’s commitment to Future Ready® thinking.