The Fertiliser Quality Council (FQC) is pleased that Environment Canterbury (ECan) has recognised the Spreadmark quality standard. Spreadmark is a voluntary quality standard that involves the accurate spreading of fertiliser.

In the ECan rule WQL 19 they allow Spreadmark certified operators to apply fertiliser in areas where non-Spreadmark operators can’t. That includes applying fertiliser closer to sensitive areas (waterways and wetlands).

“The FQC is rapt that a substantial local government organisation has recognised the value of the Spreadmark scheme,” FQC chair Neil Barton said. “ECan is the first Regional Council to acknowledge the greater accuracy of Spreadmark spreaders.

“I’m also pleased for those ground spreaders who have taken the time and effort to become Spreadmark certified. Drivers are trained, the spreaders themselves are tested and the company is audited to ensure best practice. It is a major commitment for the company and it is great to see that commitment being recognised.

“The ECan rule is an acknowledgement of the value of the Spreadmark scheme and it is heartening to see recognition from Environment Canterbury of the greater accuracy of fertiliser placement achieved by Spreadmark certified spreaders.

“The FQC will be talking to other Regional Councils around New Zealand about following the ECan lead,” Neil Barton said.

A full list of all Spreadmark certified operators can be seen on the FQC website, www.fqc.co.nz.

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