M.Ag.Sci (2006)
Modifying merino grazing and pasture composition in the high country by salt application (PDF 6.5 MB)
Research Overview
For his Masters thesis Ben investigated the use of salt (sodium) application to enhance pasture quality and botanical composition, within salt deficient high country environments. The effects of salt, urea and super-phosphate fertiliser applications were related to modification of grazing behaviour of merino sheep and the subsequent effects on dry matter production, botanical composition and establishment of over-sown seed applied to the experimental area. Ben was supervised by Dr Grant Edwards, Dr Derrick Moot and Mr Dick Lucas.
Ben and his wife Anna are currently farming in Central Otago and were awarded the Ballance Farm Environment Supreme Award for Otago in 2020. They run the Two Farmers Farming website.