Marlborough beef and sheep farmer Peter Goulter has been appointed a Marlborough-Nelson regional ambassador for the New Zealand Poplar and Willow Research Trust, with an agenda to spread the word about the value of planting poplars and willows as part of on-farm erosion and management control.
Peter had attended a two-day workshop on poplars and willows at Massey University, attended by other landowners from throughout New Zealand. There, he was approached about taking on the role of ambassador and speaking the good word to the Top of the South.
On his beef and sheep farm, Peter has been strategically planting poplar, willow and native trees for many years.
“A major part of my role is to promote the value of judiciously planting poplars and willows on any ground that is vulnerable to erosion.
He reckons there are several benefits from poplar plantings.
One poplar species Peter favours is Veronese - an imported hybrid black poplar, originating in Italy, it is a straight-stemmed, narrow-crowned tree. It has good drought and wind tolerance, excellent for soil stability shade and is good stock fodder.
The New Zealand Poplar & Willow Research Trust (NZPWRT) funds and directs research into breeding, pest management and the applied science of poplars and willows.
Hosted by Massey University near Palmerston North with a breeding programme based there, the trust works to provide landowners with adaptable plant materials aimed at reducing hill country soil erosion, retaining fertile soil and improve water quality.
Poplars and willows planted for erosion reduction stabilise pastoral hill country, increase water storage, reduce sediment transfer, improve water quality, benefit stock and enhance the farm environment.
More information is available on a comprehensive website accessed by googling ‘NZ Poplar and Willow Research Trust’.
