The role of trees as an integral and valuable part of agribusiness is the subject of a one day workshop hosted by the Bay of Plenty Farm Forestry Association at Ohope this month.

The day is designed for farmers targeting the marginal or less productive parts of their farms, says one of the organisers Ian Nicholas.

'The workshop is particularly designed for Maori landowners, and will feature the property of Ngāti Awa Group Holdings, looking at trees as an intergenerational land management tool providing sustainable agribusiness solutions and enhancing long term land use.”

Specifically designed by knowledgeable, experienced tree-planting farmers and Agfirst consultants to meet local needs, the workshop will look at trees as an integral part of an agribusiness venture.

How integrated land use strategies spread risk, cash flow and deliver both short-term and inter-generational benefits will be explored.

Trees as a land management strategy will also be discussed with examples of wise land use and 'fit for purpose” plantings. Erosion control, riparian management and water quality, weed control, managing trouble spots and erosion, and protecting valuable soils will also be discussed.

The roles trees play in animal welfare, supplying shelter and food and managing waterways will also be discussed.

The workshop, running from 9.30am-3.30pm at the Ohope Hall on Bluett Road on June 20, will include a provided lunch courtesy of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

Email Ian Nicholas at [email protected] for more information.