New freshwater learning opportunity

As a sector, we have a responsibility to ensure our practices safeguard rivers, lakes, and streams. Now, there’s an opportunity for growers, your staff, horticulture advisors and council staff to enhance your knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to freshwater management.

A new micro-credential, ‘Assess and Manage Risks to Freshwater from Horticultural Production,’ has been approved by NZQA at Level 4 (10 credits).

This new qualification, available next year, will provide practical knowledge on identifying and mitigating freshwater risks from horticulture operations. Completing this 100-hour (approx.) programme will equip you with skills to:

• assess potential risks to freshwater values and ecosystem health from horticultural activities.
• identify on-farm biophysical and management risk factors.
• recommend best practices to manage these risks effectively.

This qualification not only supports good practice but will also demonstrate that you understand and actively manage freshwater risks.

While national and regional freshwater rules are still evolving, Government have confirmed that growers will be required to have an approved Freshwater Farm Plan (FWFP) for their operation. This programme helps ensure preparedness for this.

Primary ITO and Fruition are developing the programme content and assessments, and there’s room for 150 participants in 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to upskill and contribute to protecting our freshwater resources and helping others do the same.

To find out more or express interest, please fill in the form here or email us at comms@hortnz.co.nz if you have any questions.