What is LandWISE Incorporated?
LandWISE was formed in 1999 during a very successful on-farm research project. It became a co-ordinator of sustainable production projects, primarily in the vegetable and arable cropping industries. In 2003, LandWISE became an incorporated society with charitable status. Our prime objective is to provide leadership and support for the development and promotion of sustainable production. As part of that we have a strong agri-technology and extension focus. Membership is open to anyone who shares our objectives.
Who is involved?
LandWISE has a management board primarily made up of farmers with representatives from research organisations and industry. We have about 900 subscribers, covering New Zealand, Australia, Europe, UK, North and South America, Africa and Japan.
About 40% of our subscribers are farmers, 30% agronomists, company representatives, and contractors, and 30% researchers and technology developers or government. Many fit several categories!
Our full financial members select the Board, receive event discounts and actually enable the organisation to function.
What do we do?
LandWISE co-ordinates projects that address issues identified by members; seeking funding and undertaking or contracting the work as required. We place great importance on extension, organising field walks and grower seminars and producing fact sheets and miscellaneous publications.
We have presented twenty-two Annual Conferences, typically attracting about 100 – 110 farmers, researchers and industry people to our two-day or three-day events.
We have a number of smaller Guides available on the website, and published “A Guide to Smart Farming” in 2012. Over 6,500 copies have now been delivered to farmers and their supporters.
How is LandWISE funded?
LandWISE is funded by subscriptions and project grants. We raise funds from members and from some of our activities, and also seek funding partners who share our objectives. Please consider joining us as a full member.