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. 3 days ago

    Cultivation and Cropping: The Mistake That Costs Farmers Thousands

    Winter cropping can be expensive, risky and essential for getting livestock through the colder months. But what if the way we prepare a cropping paddock is actually setting it up to fail? In this episode, Ewan and the team dig into the thinking behind winter crops, soil preparation, carbon, nitrogen and the role of soil biology. They explore the idea of the “fake boost”, where spraying and disturbing the soil can create a rapid burst of growth, while potentially leaving the paddock depleted afterwards. The conversation looks at how farmers can approach cropping with more preparation, better timing and a focus on building the soil before the crop goes in. They also discuss cultivation, fallow periods, weeds, cyanobacteria, crop economics and why a cropping paddock doesn't have to be treated as a sacrifice. In this episode: Why winter cropping needs to be planned before this year's crop is even finishedHow building soil carbon before planting can support crop growthThe “fake boost” that can happen after sprayingWhy soil biology plays such an important role in decomposition and nutrient cyclingHow crop yields and cropping area affect the economics of winter feedWhy cultivation itself isn't necessarily the enemyThe role of fallow periods, timing and soil preparationWhy weeds may be responding to underlying soil conditionsHow cyanobacteria, fungi, bacteria and worms contribute to the soil cycleWhy measuring your soil carbon and nutrient inventory matters 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. 21 Aug

    More Farming Questions Answered: Nitrogen, Fungi & More

    The questions keep coming! In Part 2 of our farming Q&A, we continue answering your comments, challenging conventional thinking and digging deeper into some of the biggest conversations around modern agriculture. In this episode: In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, the discussion turns to synthetic nitrogen, soil carbon, fungi, soil biology and the importance of questioning the systems we've come to rely on. We explore the argument that soil has its own natural nitrogen system, and ask what happens when we replace those natural processes with synthetic inputs. We also revisit the story behind the fungal "Control Alt Delete" experiment, including the use of different fungal species and the surprising changes observed in the soil and livestock. The conversation explores the different roles fungi can play in soil biology and their relationship with other microorganisms such as cyanobacteria. But ultimately, this episode comes back to a bigger question: how do we make better decisions on farm? Rather than simply accepting what we're told, Ewan and the team discuss the importance of asking questions, running trials, observing the results and staying open to new ideas. From unexpected solutions to long-term consequences of farming practices, this is another wide-ranging Q&A exploring how we can think differently about agriculture. Synthetic nitrogen and nature's nitrogen systemThe relationship between nitrogen and soil carbonThe hidden costs of synthetic nitrogenThe fungal "Control Alt Delete" experimentCordyceps and different fungal speciesFungi, soil biology and cyanobacteriaWhy independent trials and observation matterMaking farming decisions based on realityThe importance of questioning conventional practicesInnovation and finding unexpected solutionsMore questions from the EcoFarm communityIf you enjoyed Part 1, there's plenty more to dig into here. And as always, the goal isn't to tell you what to think, it's to encourage better questions, better observations and better conversations around farming. Our E-Book!https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠

  3. 13 Aug

    Your Farming Questions Answered: Soil, Carbon, Glyphosate & More

    What are farmers actually asking about soil, carbon, regenerative farming and the future of agriculture? In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, Ewan Campbell sits down to work through questions and comments from our viewers, covering everything from soil carbon and comprehensive soil testing to cyanobacteria, crop production, glyphosate, organic farming and New Zealand's carbon policies. The conversation explores why testing and understanding your soil is so important, why Ewan believes farmers need to look at the whole biological system rather than individual inputs, and how better information can lead to better farming decisions. They also discuss the growing use of pine trees for carbon credits, whether New Zealand is making the most of its position as a food-producing country, and why producing higher-value, quality food could be a much better opportunity for New Zealand farmers. From soil testing and silicon to carbon sequestration and farming policy, this episode covers a wide range of questions and ideas with plenty of debate along the way. In this episode: - Soil carbon and carbon sequestration - Why comprehensive soil testing matters - Cyanobacteria and soil biology - Improving crop production and yields - Silicon and plant resilience - Pine trees, carbon credits and land use - Organic farming and premium food markets - Glyphosate and its impact on biological systems - Making better decisions on farm - Questions and comments from the EcoFarm communityI f you're interested in soil health, regenerative agriculture, farming innovation and the future of New Zealand agriculture, this episode is packed with ideas worth thinking about. 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. 6 Aug

    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

  5. 29 Jul

    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/

  6. 17 Jul

    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

  7. 1 Jul

    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

  8. 26 Jun

    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

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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    72
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Ewan Campbell with co-host Stephen Brunton
  • Show Website
    EcoFarm Aotearoa

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