Regenerative Agriculture Practices in potato cultivation in New Zealand

The recent study by McCain on potato production in New Zealand, following a regenerative agriculture approach, presents promising results for the future implementation of these practices.

Launched by the SAI Platform in 2023, the global framework of the Regenerating Together Program for regenerative agriculture provides a structured approach, guiding farmers through context analysis, outcome selection, practice adoption, and continuous progress monitoring.

McCain's recent case study on potato farming in New Zealand showcases how productivity and sustainability can be enhanced through regenerative agriculture practices.

For farmers like Daniel Lovett, whose family has adopted sustainable methods for decades, the framework serves as a valuable tool to refine and improve existing sustainability efforts on the farm.

By focusing on local contexts and the specific challenges of each farm, it empowers farmers, along with their technical advisors, to make informed decisions, prioritize key outcomes, and track measurable improvements over time, fostering resilience and profitability.

New Zealand is a major player in global potato production, generating over half a million tons annually. However, in 2012, potato yields for some farmers in the Mid-Canterbury region had stagnated. Through context analysis, potato farmers, including the Lovetts, identified critical limiting factors: low crop diversity, altered soil fertility, and ineffective crop rotation cycles.

By adopting regenerative methods, potato farmers like the Lovetts extended their crop rotations from 6 to 9 years, incorporating up to 14 different species to break disease cycles and rejuvenate the soil. They also integrated livestock grazing, using sheep to improve soil quality.

Daniel Lovett, the owner of Lovett Family Farms Ltd.:

"We have sacrificed short-term profits by growing low-value crops as part of a long-term strategy to maintain soil health."

These changes have yielded tangible benefits. According to the case study, potato farmers in New Zealand have seen average yield increases of 25% since the early 2000s, along with a significant reduction in nitrogen use, decreasing the environmental footprint of their operations.

Furthermore, greenhouse gas emissions have decreased by 9% per ton of potatoes produced, a crucial achievement for both environmental goals and economic viability. Progress continues among all the farmers involved, including Lovett Family Farms, as they explore innovations such as AI-powered machinery to target weeds precisely and reduce herbicide use.

Daniel Lovett:

"We are always trying to balance profitability and sustainability. The future of our farm depends on it."

The principles of regenerative agriculture go beyond immediate profits, as exemplified by the Lovett family, which embodies a commitment to sustainability for future generations.

Daniel Lovett:

"Sacrificing short-term profits for the benefit of future generations is in our DNA."

As highlighted in McCain’s case study, these practices not only restore the land but also pave the way for long-term environmental and economic viability. Innovations such as integrated pest management (IPM) and alternative soil management practices are still being explored to further minimize environmental impact.

However, challenges persist, particularly the knowledge gap on regenerative agriculture among the public and policymakers. Engaging local politicians and organizing school visits has proven effective in raising awareness and is a solid starting point for building broader support for regenerative practices throughout the region.

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SAI Platform seeks to develop more case studies under the global framework of its Regenerating Together Program for regenerative agriculture. By adopting regenerative agriculture principles tailored to local contexts, farms like Lovett Family Farm are leading the way toward a sustainable and profitable agricultural future.