Opening gates on environmental champions

Cutting-edge operations across the region are lifting the covers and inviting in the community to see why they earned recognition at the recent local environmental awards.

The Port Marlborough – Marlborough Environment Awards award winner field days start at Glentoi Farm on September 17, with owners Willie and Millie Millton demonstrating how commercial farming can thrive alongside strong environmental stewardship.

Awards judges praised the Milltons for their strong commitment to sustainable and innovative farming practices, noting how they balance agricultural productivity with environmental stewardship.

An on-site presentation by Susan Moore-Lavo of Te Uru Rākau - New Zealand Forest Service, will discuss forestry and land management initiatives relevant to the wider farming community.

“This first field day is an opportunity to celebrate Glentoi’s award and showcase their innovation in incorporating sustainable land management and restoration into an economic farm,” says Awards coordinator Julia Brown.

“It’s also about raising awareness of environmental practices and standards in a farm environment and providing a forum for networking within and outside the farming industry.

On September 28 Marine category winner Waikawa Boating Club will shed light on how they lead the way nationally in clean and green initiatives. They have earned a 3-star rating from Yachting New Zealand by reducing energy use, eliminating single-use plastics, running beach clean-ups, “Clean Regattas,” and a regular “Green Corner” newsletter.

Community Innovation winners Envirohub Marlborough open their doors for an open day on Friday, October 10 from 10am-12noon, while Landscape & Habitat champions Wild Waikawa host the community on Friday, October 31 from 9am-1pm and forestry winners, Top of the South Wood Council, show their workings on Thursday, November 27 between 9am-2pm (wet weather date Thursday December 4).

Supreme and Wine Industry winner Future Post, Electrification and Energy Efficiency winners TRS Wholesale and Business Innovation winners MG Contracting/Kinsett Tomatoes are still to confirm their dates.

To register or for more information, email [email protected]