Welcome to the ABF website
We are a committed bunch of farmers, growers, researchers, scientists, supply and service companies and consumers passionate about improving farming outcomes across New Zealand.
This website is jam packed full of resources and information about the benefits from a 'soils first' approach.
ABF provides extension services to the primary sector; ensuring producers receive independent, up-to-date and practical information to help build their growing businesses.
We have 1 more Open Day planned for May, please click on the events calendar for more information.
These events are FREE to all primary producers and ABF members. Please contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to register your place.
Agriculture is in crisis:
THE FACTS: our natural capital is being eroded; over 11 tonnes of soil/ha is lost every year from our landscape, a 'dead zone' is growing in the sea off the Manukau Harbour, water quality and mineral levels in foods continue to decline, the profitability of many sectors is in question, while the average age of farmers continues to increase. The consequences from the current 'production at any cost' model impacts on the health of ecosystems, livestock and human health.
Fortunately there are many practical ways we as land managers can begin to address these issues. ABF is showing how primary production can provide both economic and ecological benefits. Indeed, there is no other option.
Getting in touch with other farmers and growers is an important part of building the most important natural capital we have; KNOWLEDGE.
ABF focuses on Open Days, Discussion Groups and opportunities for producers to network, trouble-shoot and innovate.
Defining Biological Farming:
Biological farming (or sustainable, eco-agriculture, nature farming etc) is defined by its goals and objectives:
Any system of food (or fibre) production that pursues the following objectives systematically:
· A thorough incorporation of natural processes, such a nutrient cycling, pest-predator relationships into ag production process, ensuring profitable, efficient and quality food production
· A reduction in the use of those external and non-renewable inputs with the greatest potential for environmental harm or human health risks; with the more targeted use of the remaining inputs with the aim of reducing costs
· The full participation of farmers and rural people in all aspects of the problem analysis, tech development, adaptation and extension
· More equitable access to productive resources and opportunities and progress towards more socially just forms of Ag
· An increase in the self-reliance of farmers
This means biological farmers are always striving to improve and fine-tune their system. The methods employed by individual farmers differ depend on regional variations, land or soil type, climactic conditions, stock or cropping choices, farmers preferences and other drivers. At the end of the day, biological farming can be seen as a 'preventative medicine' approach to production, with most farmers seeing the approach as common sense.
ABF Vision
“To promote regenerative on-farm practices which improve and enhance natural capital, building a vibrant and healthy society, environment and economy”
Interested in helping to build the integrity of New Zealand's clean and green brand? ABF has received tremendous support from our funders and sponsors to create this online communications platform. This project runs from July 2011 for one year, so please check back in as this website evolves.
We invite you to join us and become part of this exciting journey!
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD MEMBERSHIP FORM NOW
Who are we?
ABF is a NZ wide organization that is engaged in improving and enhancing the Natural Capital of NZ's productive landscapes. Our membership includes farmers, growers, scientists, researchers, students, consumers and suppliers bonded by a common desire to build natural capital.
Our Mission:
To promote regenerative farming practices through:
• education, information exchange, alliance building and advocacy,
• supporting primary producers through ABF extension services and events,
• integrating stakeholders in extension activities and,
• information for consumers, commerce and decision-makers about the benefits offered to the society, environment, and economy.
Biological Discussion Group:
Your membership gives you access to an email discussion group, which has been running since 2006.