Awards season has arrived in Southland, and the Southland Ballance Farm Environment Awards have crowned the ultimate champion in the region – Awarua deer farmer Cam Nelson. This year’s supreme winner, Nelson Farming Company, is a shining example of what can be achieved through strong business planning, superior livestock performance, and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability.
From Sheep to Deer: A Journey of Continuous Improvement
Since purchasing the 164ha property in 2003, the Nelsons have transformed it from a 50:50 sheep and deer operation to an exclusively deer farm. The current herd comprises 250 mixed-age stags, 400 breeding hinds, 180 R2 velvet stags, and 180 R2 hinds, all of which have been sold in-calf. This shift towards deer farming has enabled the team to optimize their system, ensuring strong animal performance while maintaining high environmental standards.
Stockmanship and Genetics: The Keys to Success
The judges praised the superior stockmanship and well-optimised system that enabled the Nelsons to manage their high stocking rate effectively. The team prioritized stock classes, ensuring that strong animal performance was maintained while maintaining high environmental standards. Moreover, the implementation of a robust genetic programme focusing on desirable traits such as high velvet production and disease resistance has resulted in an annual velvet yield of 3400kg.
Winter Grazing and Biodiversity: Innovative Solutions
The development of a wintering shed and construction of a dedicated winter hind pad have dramatically improved winter grazing practices. This infrastructure not only minimizes pasture damage but also enhances animal welfare. Additionally, the Nelsons’ commitment to enhancing biodiversity is evident through initiatives such as native plantings, pond creation, and the replacement of eucalyptus with native species.
Award-Winning Achievements
The Nelsons’ exceptional attention to detail in environmental conservation is evident in their proactive approach to soil and water conservation, as well as their use of sediment traps and water flow management. The construction of shelter and shade has further supported biodiversity across the farm. The judges commended the Nelsons’ commitment to native ecosystems, noting their involvement in initiatives such as pond creation and native plantings.
Recognition and Impact
The Nelsons’ achievements have been recognized through the following awards:
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- Beef + Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award
- Rabobank Agri-Business Management Award
- New Zealand Farm Environment Trust (NZFET) Biodiversity Award
Mr Nelson also joins the supreme winners from the 10 other regions in being considered for the Gordon Stephenson Trophy, a testament to the Nelsons’ dedication to environmental sustainability and exceptional farming practices.
The Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group’s collaborative efforts to support sustainable farming and environmental stewardship have also been recognized. The group’s flagship Revival Project, launched in 2023, addresses the environmental damage caused by feral deer and pigs. Their efforts have led to the culling of over 600 deer and numerous pigs, showcasing the impact of community-led initiatives on environmental conservation.
| Year | Award | Recipient |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | Purchase of 164ha property | Cam Nelson |
| 2023 | Revival Project launch | Makarewa Headwaters Catchment Group |
The Nelsons’ exceptional vision, environmental values, and commitment to sustainability have set a new standard for the industry. As a shining example of what can be achieved through careful planning, superior livestock performance, and a deep commitment to environmental sustainability, the Nelson Farming Company will undoubtedly inspire others to follow in their footsteps.