Edge-of-field solutions for nitrogen
Nitrogen loss into NZ waterways can promote algal blooms, reduced oxygen levels in streams and rivers, and can harm aquatic life. It is often attributed to intensive farming practices. Below are a list of edge-of-field technologies that help to reduce nitrate levels before the contaminated water is returned to the main waterway.
If you are a land owner and you have identified that nitrogen is of concern on your land, browse through the page to discover what other people are doing about it and what edge-of-field solutions are available.
If you are interested to find out more about ‘in-field’ mitigation practices, then please refer to the links at the bottom of the page.
Controlled drainage
Artificially constructed surface and sub-surface drains are an intrinsic component of many productive farm systems. However, they could also act potentially as a critical flow pathway for losses of nutrients, for example, nitrate from the soil profile. Explore the links below to learn how contaminant loss can be mitigated in the form of controlled (managed) drainage systems.
Woodchip bioreactors
Bioreactors are a novel edge-of-field practice being developed to reduce the flow of water contaminants from agricultural lands. They harness natural biodegradation processes to create an environment where soil microorganisms can thrive and effectively break down water contaminants. Explore the links below to find out more.
What do farmers think about bioreactors?
Drainage water recycling
Most farms in New Zealand are constrained by soil water deficits that develop over summer and autumn, whereas during winter and spring there can be surplus rainfall and associated drainage and/or runoff. This drainage contains nutrients that are, therefore, lost from the farm and will continue to contaminate the receiving water body. Farmers with artificial drainage or channels that collect large amounts of runoff can capture this water, store it, and then irrigate it during dry periods. Explore the links below to find out more about drainage water recycling.
