A Love Of The Land

 

A Love Of The Land

A love of the land is inherent for Atkins Ranch farmers. It is common sense really: look after the land, and it will look after you in return. However, at Atkins Ranch the sense of guardianship and duty to leave nature better for future generations is what sets us apart. Not to mention the idyllic slice of paradise our world-beating lamb comes from.

We are proud to be carrying on the work that was done before us, with an eye to the next generation.

Tim Nelson, Atkins Ranch farmer

This spirit of guardianship is a crucial element in the production of the world's best, grass-fed lamb. It is something Atkins Ranch farmer Tim Nelson and his wife Alice take very seriously.

The Nelson's took over Te Wairere, a picturesque rolling ranch at over 2,000 feet above sea level, in 2011. They quickly recognized the need to continue the work that preceded them. Knowing there is a significant benefit to animal health and well-being in large-scale planting programs, the Nelsons got to work. And, whilst the land may be rolling, that is not to say it was easy... They have planted a staggering 8,000 native plants.

You would be excused for thinking they would stop there. But not the Nelsons. They have also put in over 3 miles of fencing to protect native planting and waterways.

It is paying off

There has been a noticeable increase in birdlife, their waterways are cleaner than ever before, and their animal health has never been better. But if you ask Tim Nelson what he is most proud of, he will tell you it is the staggering 340 tons of carbon removed from the atmosphere as a result.

Below is the carbon sequestration on Te Wairere from 1988, 2004, and 2023. Using CarbonCrop's innovative carbon mapping technology, Atkins Ranch could clearly demonstrate the fruit of the Nelsons’ labor.