There is considerable knowledge among farmers, both no-tillers and cultivators, about what works and doesn't work for them, and why. What appears to be needed is some way of more people sharing in this knowledge, with the time and space for farmers to consider all the angles and get comfortable with considering a change. The following activities are known to be broadly aiming to provide this opportunity. Many organisations and individuals have been involved in the practice, research and development of no-tillage techniques over the years. The association's key objective is to facilitate the exchange of ideas and information on no-tillage in New Zealand.
Membership is open to anyone.
The Hawkes Bay Regional Council, with help from MAF Policy, initiated LandWISE in 1999 to encourage and facilitate links between growers, industry, government, researchers and other organisations. LandWISE has recently gained funding from the Sustainable Farming Fund to continue its research work and fund a full time facilitator. These activities offer good opportunities for policy makers to gain an understanding of the broader issues confronting farmers, and to establish relationships with farmers. After a period of some suspicion, these contacts usually lead to better understanding of all parties' points of view, and ultimately better policy. MAF encourages all those with an interest in the outcomes to get in touch with these groups and participate in the activities.