Ravensdown is hoping its Eco-N product for reducing nitrogen leaching from pastures could soon be back on the shelves.

More farmers have asked this year about CRV Ambreed’s LowN sires, as they aim to start breeding for lower milk urea nitrogen concentration (MUN), says product manager Peter van Elzakker.

Farming practices now piloted by Mid Canterbury dairy farmers Grant and Jan Early could show other New Zealand farmers how they can successfully reduce their environmental impacts.  

Research shows that cows bred for low urea concentration end up using more nitrogen for milk protein productions.

Nitrogen entering the soil from the urine of cows is a big problem.

Five years of research has led to CRV Ambreed discovering that selective breeding will help reduce urinary nitrogen leaching on NZ farms by 20% within 20 years.

New Zealand and American scientists have discovered a previously unknown way of chemically converting reactive nitrogen, common in soil and water, into a safe form rather than a harmful greenhouse gas.

Technology used by archaeologists to find artefacts in the ground is now being trialled by New Zealand soil scientists to see if it can help mitigate nitrogen leaching on farms.

Farm comparison work will start soon to support scientifically the claim that a biologically active fertiliser system now used on 200 dairy farms reduces environmental impacts and raises profits.

Having enough nitrogen in farming systems is essential. But having too much, or not managing it wisely, can have marked effects on your farm's environment.