The results and success factors of nine group farm monitoring
programmes
G.W. Sheath, R.W. Webby, P. Keeling, R.D. Thomson, C.R. Page and
G.T. Burton
AgResearch, Ruakura Research Centre, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton
Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1999, 59: 87-90
Results from 9 farmer groups located in the upper North Island
and operating over the period of 1988 to 1998 showed that group farm
monitoring has facilitated changes in farm practice performance and
income. The process involved groups of farmers with associated
consultants, veterinarians and scientists; and the detailed monitoring
of a central farm for 3 to 4 years. Changes made on the monitor farm
incorporated the optimisation of the farm system and the adaptation and
use of new sheep and beef cattle farming technologies. Increases in
production ranged from 8 to 37%; and increases in farm revenue from 13
to 31%. Changes to stock policies that better aligned feed demand and
supply, increased growth rates of young animals and greater efficiencies
in breeding ewe and cow performance were common contributors to improved
performances. The group farm monitoring process emphasised the value of
gathering and effectively using farm and product information and
provided a collective learning environment for farmers within a group
context. Critical success factors that have emerged from a decade of
work experience associated with group process are highlighted and
discussed in the paper.
Keywords: NZSAPAB;
Farmer groups; farm monitoring; farm systems; information
technologies; learning
Last Updated 06-08-1999
