EcoFarm Aotearoa

Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
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From paddock to podcast, EcoFarm Aotearoa showcases Ewan Campbell, a respected name in NZ farming, known for turning good science into better practice. With co-host Stephen Brunton, Ewan unpacks his audiobook and the big issues: nitrate and water quality, soil biology, mineral balance, genetics, pasture growth, animal health, and profitability. Real stories, clear takeaways—ready for the ute, cowshed, or tractor. Notes & links: efa.nz

  1. vor 5 Tagen

    The Nitrate Debate: Here's What People Got Wrong

    A short clip from a previous episode sparked plenty of debate online, so Ewan Campbell is taking the opportunity to dive deeper into one of agriculture's most misunderstood topics: nitrates. In this episode:In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, Ewan unpacks the science behind the nitrogen cycle, explains the difference between nitrate and ammonium, and explores why so much confusion exists around nitrates in farming. Rather than focusing on symptoms, he looks at the biological processes that naturally convert nitrogen into plant-available proteins and why healthy soil biology is key to productive farms, cleaner waterways and healthier livestock. The conversation also examines how excess nitrate can impact pasture quality, milk production, animal health and water quality, while challenging some of the assumptions that have become accepted as "normal" within modern agriculture. Whether you agreed or disagreed with the original clip, this episode provides the full context behind the discussion and explains the reasoning in much greater detail. We Discuss: - The difference between nitrate and ammonium - Understanding the natural nitrogen cycle - How healthy soil biology converts nitrogen- Why excess nitrate can affect livestock health - The connection between nitrogen, waterways and food quality - Why current testing standards may be misleading - Practical ways to improve nitrogen efficiency on farm If you're interested in regenerative agriculture, soil biology, livestock nutrition and practical farming solutions backed by observation and testing, this episode offers a fresh perspective on one of farming's biggest conversations. Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  2. 29. Juli

    Inside China's Massive Organic Farming Operation

    China is changing the way it farms, and the scale of what they're achieving is staggering. In this episode: After returning from an agricultural study trip to China, Gavin Fisher shares what surprised him most: climate-controlled dairy barns, advanced monitoring technology, efficient nutrient recycling, and a national focus on producing premium-quality food rather than simply maximizing output. The conversation explores how China has transformed previously unproductive land into highly efficient farming systems while investing heavily in research, innovation and long-term thinking. It also raises an important question for New Zealand: are we doing enough to stay competitive in the global food market? From massive solar farms and electric vehicles to organic dairy production and export markets, Gavin shares firsthand insights into what he witnessed on the ground and what lessons New Zealand farmers can take from China's rapid agricultural development. Gavin Fisher's agricultural study trip through ChinaInside a 200,000-cow dairy operationWhy China is prioritizing food quality over quantityClimate-controlled farming and advanced technologyOrganic dairy and growing global demandTurning desert land into productive agricultureLessons New Zealand can learn from China's innovationWhy long-term thinking is shaping the future of farming If you're interested in regenerative agriculture, farming innovation, global food production and the future of New Zealand farming, this episode is packed with insights you won't hear in mainstream discussions. Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠ "Inspired" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

  3. 17. Juli

    News Outlets Throwing Blame To Farmers!

    A new New Zealand study has linked nitrate levels in drinking water to premature births, but does that tell the whole story? In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, we unpack the latest media reports surrounding nitrates and explore what they may be overlooking. Campbell questions why the conversation always seems to stop at identifying the problem, rather than addressing the biological systems that can solve it. The discussion covers how healthy soils naturally cycle nitrogen, why cyanobacteria are central to this process, and how improving soil biology can reduce nitrate leaching while increasing farm profitability. We also dive into the importance of mineral balance, the relationship between nickel, selenium, copper and zinc, and why testing and measuring should replace assumptions. Rather than simply monitoring environmental issues, this episode looks at practical, evidence-based ways farmers can restore healthier soils, cleaner water and more resilient farming systems. We Discuss: The latest nitrate and drinking water researchWhy correlation isn't the same as causationHow healthy soil biology reduces nitrate leachingThe role of cyanobacteria in nitrogen cyclingWhy test and measure beats guessworkMineral interactions: nickel, selenium, copper & zincImproving livestock nutrition naturallyWhy profitability and environmental outcomes can improve together Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  4. 1. Juli

    We Sent Steve To A Coal Mine! Reefton Episode Part 2

    In this episode, Stephen heads to the West Coast for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine to see firsthand how mining by-products are transformed into valuable inputs for regenerative farming. Joined by the mine team, Stephen follows the journey from freshly mined coal through the wash plant, stockpiles, rehabilitation areas, and fertilizer blending operation, uncovering the geology, engineering, and innovation behind products now being used on farms across New Zealand. The tour highlights how materials once considered waste are now being repurposed into EcoFarm soil products, while also showcasing mine restoration, environmental management, and the people driving practical solutions on the ground. Through the EFA lens, this episode explores the intersection of mining, soil biology, and agriculture, demonstrating how collaboration between industries can unlock new opportunities for farmers. We discuss: A full behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mineHow coal is processed, washed, and prepared for different industriesThe surprising journey from mine by-products to EcoFarm fertilizersSoluble silica, humates, papa rock, and mineral blendingMine rehabilitation and restoring land after extractionHow EcoFarm products are mixed and shipped around New ZealandThe people, machinery, and innovation behind one of New Zealand's most unique farming partnerships Purchase Our E-Book!⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/⁠Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠⁠

  5. 26. Juni

    Can Mining Improve Agriculture?

    In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Jimmy, a lifelong West Coast coal mining expert, to explore the surprising connections between geology, mining, soil health, and modern agriculture. What begins as a conversation about coal quickly expands into the history of New Zealand's geology, the science behind different coal types, mine rehabilitation, and how mining by-products are helping improve soil function and farm productivity. Drawing on decades of experience in the mining industry, Jimmy shares insights into how coal is formed, processed, and used far beyond energy production, while also challenging common perceptions around environmental impact, land restoration, and the future of New Zealand's mineral resources. Through the EFA lens, this episode examines how overlooked natural resources, practical problem-solving, and independent thinking can create opportunities for both farming and industry. We discuss:• How coal is formed and why different coal types have different uses• Mine rehabilitation and restoring land back to productive use• The surprising role of coal by-products in improving soil health• Clean coal, energy efficiency, and common misconceptions about mining• Why soluble silica and coal humates are becoming valuable farm inputs• The future of New Zealand's mining industry and primary sector• What farming and mining can learn from each other Purchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  6. 21. Juni

    The Farming Discovery That Turned Conventional Agriculture Upside Down

    In this episode, Stephen and Ewan are joined by Robin Claire, host of Cultivated Audio, for a fascinating conversation exploring soil health, regenerative agriculture, and the hidden forces shaping the future of farming. What begins as a discussion around farming systems and mineral balancing expands into a deeper exploration of soil biology, electrical conductivity, microbial life, livestock health, and the complex relationships connecting soil, plants, animals, and people. Drawing on decades of hands-on farming experience, Ewan shares the observations and discoveries that led him to investigate the electrical properties of soil and how minerals, biology, and natural systems work together to drive productivity, resilience, and ecosystem health. Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges conventional agricultural thinking and highlights the importance of observation, curiosity, and farmer-led innovation in building healthier farms and food systems. We discuss:• The hidden electrical activity within healthy soils• How minerals influence plant, animal, and human health• The role of cyanobacteria, microbes, and biology in regenerative farming• Why observation and on-farm experimentation matter• Building resilient farming systems that work with nature Guest:Robin ClaireHost of Cultivated Audio Website:https://cultivatedaudio.com/ Listen to Cultivated Audio:https://open.spotify.com/show/4ydCU8Rh44ZcSXz0tfZgOz?si=ada90fb16e5a4cd0 Purchase Our E-Book! https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/ Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery :https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  7. 21. Juni

    The $3 Billion Fertiliser Plant Nobody Needed

    In this episode, Stephen and Ewan unpack the controversy surrounding a proposed $3 billion lignite-to-fertiliser plant in Southland, New Zealand, and ask a bigger question: why are we investing billions into synthetic nitrogen production when healthy soils already produce nitrogen naturally? What begins as a discussion around fertiliser security and global supply chains quickly becomes a deep dive into soil biology, carbon, trace minerals, and the hidden systems that drive productive farming. Through the EFA lens, the conversation explores how rebuilding soil biology through trace minerals, carbon growth, and biological function can reduce fertiliser dependence while improving profitability, animal health, environmental outcomes, and food quality. The episode challenges modern agriculture’s reliance on synthetic inputs and argues that many farmers may already have the solution beneath their feet. We discuss:• Why healthy soil biology naturally fixes nitrogen• The difference between synthetic and biologically fixed nitrogen• How trace minerals influence productivity and animal health• Why increasing soil carbon improves profitability and resilience• How farmers can reduce dependency through better soil management Our FREE E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  8. 19. Juni

    The Most Profitable Farms Are Doing This Differently

    In this episode, Stephen and Ewan explore the forces shaping modern agriculture and ask a challenging question: are farmers really in control of their own industry? From farm plans and environmental compliance to organic markets, profitability, carbon, and industry influence, the conversation examines how farmers can use testing, observation, and real-world results to make better decisions for their businesses and their land. Drawing on decades of farming experience, Ewan argues that healthy soils, lower inputs, and farmer-led innovation are creating opportunities that many conventional systems continue to overlook. Through the EFA lens, this episode challenges accepted narratives around farming, regulation, productivity, and sustainability while highlighting the importance of independent thinking and measurable outcomes. We discuss:• Who really influences the direction of modern agriculture• Why testing and measurable outcomes matter more than assumptions• The profitability of organic and low-input farming systems• Farm plans, regulation, and farmer autonomy• Building resilient businesses through independent thinking and innovation 60 Minutes Video: https://youtu.be/3GDm3Y9wAuA?si=GccuvHuyAhRruUgg Guardian Rocks Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9E8aChTA_HM&t=3s Purchase Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

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From paddock to podcast, EcoFarm Aotearoa showcases Ewan Campbell, a respected name in NZ farming, known for turning good science into better practice. With co-host Stephen Brunton, Ewan unpacks his audiobook and the big issues: nitrate and water quality, soil biology, mineral balance, genetics, pasture growth, animal health, and profitability. Real stories, clear takeaways—ready for the ute, cowshed, or tractor. Notes & links: efa.nz

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  • Erstellt von
    Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
  • Jahre aktiv
    2025 - 2026
  • Folgen
    69
  • Bewertung
    Anstößig
  • Copyright
    © Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
  • Sendungswebsite
    EcoFarm Aotearoa

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