2021 Finalists: Peter Levin and Phil Barton of Levin and Co. – Beef

Biodiversity has been a long term focus at the 265 ha bull beef Taupiri property, Levin & Co with a 30 year pest control programme combined with natural regeneration of native bush and shade and shelter planting leading to a return of natural bird life. Peter, Gail and Phil value these factors that make this farm a pleasant environment to work in.

This farm boasts a 30 ha QE11 National Trust Covenant, with excellent riparian buffers along the stream. Focussed pest control around these areas is a feature, and pastures are excellent and well managed with high levels of clover.

Healthy stock and stock classes managed to climatic conditions at the time are well looked after and show good production.

With a strong focus on the environment, all plastics are either recycled for further use or sent off farm to be recycled.

Attention to detail is important for Levin & Co who ensure excellent record keeping. Relationships are also important between the owners and manager on this property to ensure a harmonious running of the business.

This joint owner and manager entry into the Ballance Farm Environment Awards was to obtain feedback and advice form the judges and to showcase what can be achieved environmentally and aesthetically on a commercial working farm.

Judges Comments:

· Attention to detail around gathering and using data. Excellent recording of climate, stock, pasture management, Animal Health, finances and Health and Safety over many years.

· Very tidy farm and well run business with a history of strong enduring relationships between owners and farm manager.

· Outstanding history of environmental enhancement focussing on riparian, stock shade and aesthetic values with good predator control actions.

· Good decisions around animal health justified through recording and routine testing

Levin & Co. were winners of the Hill Laboratories Agri-Science Award and Waikato River Authority Catchment Improvement Award