World-class technology powers Lincoln research

Landpower is proud to be part of the provision of more than $850,000 of high performance agricultural technology, service and advice to Lincoln University as part of a three-year research program that aims to improve the performance and viability of New Zealand dairy farming systems.

The project will be conducted at Ashley Dene Research and Development Station, a world-class complex, which is currently nearing completion. It includes a 175 hectare milking platform, 530 cow herd, a 54 bail rotary dairy, a feed pad and stand-off pad. The facility is divided into a suite of dairy farming systems, with close integration of the arable and livestock sector. 

Lincoln University Farms Director, Dr Teresa Moore, says the research program will include a number of projects examining farm profitability, animal welfare and environmental performance. “It has been a great pleasure to engage with the supporters over this dairy conversion and what it means to New Zealand,” she says. “These supporters wanted to get in behind Lincoln University and enable us to undertake the valuable environmental research that is needed to ensure everyone’s longevity in farming. They saw great merit in what our objectives are for this farm and wanted to provide the support they could to make it worthwhile and effective. We have an impressive group of supporters that we really look forward to working with to make this research and development dairy farm a success.”

Other commercial supporters include OPUS International Consultants, Waikato Milking Systems, PGG Wrightson and Genetic Technologies / Pioneer. Under the arrangement, two CLAAS ARION 430 CIS tractors, a JCB Loadall 536−60 Agri Super telehandler and a Trioliet Solomix 1 ZK mixing wagon have already been delivered.

A Fliegl VFW slurry wagon, AMAZONE ZA-TS Super fertiliser spreader and CLAAS DISCO 3600 Contour mower will be delivered in the coming months. Service and support will be provided by CLAAS Harvest Centre, Templeton.

CLAAS Harvest Centre Group Chief Executive Officer, Richard Wilson, says the research project offers a number of significant benefits for all stakeholders. “The outcomes of this research will help to build a stronger and more sustainable dairy industry in New Zealand and that’s good for everyone,” he says. “This is a great opportunity to showcase how our technology and service can support dairy producers at open days and workshops throughout the year. In turn, the next generation of agricultural students will gain a first-hand appreciation of cutting-edge technology during their education, which they will carry with them into their first job and subsequent careers.”

CLAAS Harvest Centre represents the entire range of CLAAS, AMAZONE, JCB, Grégoire Besson, Fliegl, Trioliet and other leading farm machinery brands from 14 locations throughout New Zealand.