An expansive guide to managing cadmium has recently been made available on the Fertiliser Association of New Zealand website, following an update of the Cadmium Management Strategy last year that focusses on education.

Eight fact sheets, tailored to farmers and growers, collate seven years of research on how to manage cadmium: a naturally occurring heavy metal that builds up in soil following long-term phosphate fertiliser use.

“Cadmium concentrations are still relatively low in most New Zealand soils, and well below levels that affect human health or the environment,” says Cadmium Management Group chair Dr Gerald Rys.

“However, it’s recognised that soil cadmium needs to be managed now and into the future to ensure that our food remains safe and sustainable.

“The updated strategy provides an agreed ongoing approach to managing cadmium in NZ agricultural soils. It also provides a basis for government agencies, regional councils, and the farming and fertiliser sectors to work together.”

The fact sheet for livestock farmers was created in collaboration with DairyNZ, Beef + Lamb NZ, the Ministry for Primary Industries and FANZ.

It highlights a build-up of cadmium in offal as a concern. While this is managed by not selling offal from ruminant animals older than two years, ineffective cadmium management can lead to levels that exceed Food Standards Australia New Zealand regulations being found in younger stock.

The guide says soil testing for cadmium, pH, organic matter and Olsen P provide valuable information for monitoring and managing cadmium accumulation in plants.

Other cadmium management tips include not grazing pastures top-dressed with phosphorus fertiliser for 21 days or until 25mm of rain has fallen, and reducing the risk of stock ingesting soil by avoiding over-grazing and feeding-out on bare ground.

“The CMG encourages farmers and growers to use this practical information to help make decisions about cadmium management on their property. It is a useful resource for their farm management toolkit,” says Gerald.

“We urge farmers and growers to include soil cadmium tests as part of their routine nutrient management programme, and to work closely with their fertiliser representatives and crop advisers to determine the best approach.”

To access the new cadmium management resources, visit: www.fertiliser.org.nz/Site/news/articles/managing-cadmium-in-new-zealand-fact-sheets