Environmental stewardship recognised at farming awards

Clydesdale Dairy in North Otago has taken home a collection of awards at the recent Ballance Farm Environment Awards, Otago Region.

François and Shelley Tillard were named winners of the prestigious DairyNZ Sustainability and Stewardship Award at the regional awards held in April. They also received the Beef+Lamb New Zealand Livestock Farm Award and the Otago Regional Council Water Enhancement Award.

Working tirelessly to improve the farm’s sustainability, the Tillards’ focus on soil health as a top priority. They run a nutrient management programme, which captures and utilises nutrients which might otherwise be lost. Their focus on efficiency and innovative irrigation solutions was also noted as key to their success.

François and Shelley also have a strong focus on the wellbeing of their team, ensuring that they are supported and protected, with the judges describing their approach as “an exemplary health and safety plan.”

These awards highlight the work the team is doing to ensure there is no compromise to the environment, people or animals.

Clydesdale Dairy, a joint venture in the Craigmore Farming Partnership, operates a 206 hectare year-round milking business, with a peak herd size of between 650–800 cows.