The collective power of information
Hundreds of farmers are contributing on-farm data to DairyNZ’s Baseline Project
COLLECTING and recording on-farm information through DairyNZ’s Baseline Project plays an important role when it comes to developing new legislation.
DairyNZ senior economist Matt Newman says having access to Baseline’s reliable information helps inform decision-making and enables DairyNZ to answer questions quickly.
“Without it we wouldn’t be able to do all the things we do, including speaking on farmers’ behalf when new legislation is discussed,” he says.
Baseline is operated out of DairyNZ’s DairyBase. However, farmers provide more detailed physical information for Baseline than is required for DairyBase, so comprehensive Overseer files can be created.
For example, in DairyBase, a farmer would usually record the amount of feed and fertiliser used. For those taking part in the Baseline Project, more detailed information is collected, such as the timing around feed, how it’s fed, when fertiliser is applied, at what rates, and where.
Baseline has collected data for the last five years, with 400-500 farms contributing each season.
Mr Newman says the data is helping shape the future for dairy farmers.
“For example, greenhouse gases are now in the spotlight, and Baseline has put dairy in a strong position by providing data to help inform regulation development and solutions to reduce emissions.
“The data was used to quickly assess the impacts of proposed environmental taxes pre-election, and will again be used once policies are drafted by the new Government,” he says.
“If we had to collect the relevant data from scratch, you’re talking about a year’s worth of data collection before you can do anything. DairyNZ is seeking more owner-operators to join Baseline. If you’re interested, contact DairyBase on 07 858 3890 or info@dairybase.co.nz ■
The data was used to quickly assess the impacts of proposed environmental taxes pre-election, and will again be used once policies are drafted by the new Government.
Through Baseline we’re collecting data ahead of the need to use it,” Newman says.