Conflicts between being a “Good Farmer” and freshwater policy: A New Zealand case study

S. Walton, J. M. Lord, A. J. Lord and V. Kahui ()
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S. Walton: University of Otago
J. M. Lord: University of Otago
A. J. Lord: University of Otago
V. Kahui: University of Otago

Agriculture and Human Values, 2024, vol. 41, issue 1, No 25, 387-392

Abstract: Abstract Strategies that motivate agrifood producers to adopt more sustainable practices are a critical component for a sustainable future. This case study examines farmer attitudes to a recently released New Zealand agricultural policy aimed at improving freshwater quality by restricting agricultural activities. Our study interprets interviews of nine individuals managing a range of dairy and sheep farming operations to explore how these farmers manage societal expectations of being a ‘good farmer’ in the context of the new regulations. Four themes were developed to capture perceptions of participants: the vested interest of farmers in positive community engagement and being seen as a ‘good’ farmer; the need to manage farms prudently for future generations; the unique geographical and environmental conditions on each farm and their concerns about the lack of acknowledgment of differences across land types in New Zealand; and the unintended consequences of the new regulations for rural communities. Overall, the themes suggest that the way the policy was enacted conflicts with perceptions of a ‘good farmer’ and good farming practice, resulting in identity conflicts for the farming community and reduced motivation to adopt alternative practices.

Keywords: Good farmer; Case study; National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management; Regulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1007/s10460-023-10471-1

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