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54th ANNUAL CONFERENCE 2010
2010 Flyer
2010 Programme

**  NZGFA MAGS** 
March 2010 Magazine
October 2009 Magazine
March 2009 Magazine

The Fertiliser Quality Council (FQC) was incorporated in 2001 and has been continually evolving since then.   It was set up by farmers for farmers and incorporates both the Fertmark and Spreadmark quality assurance schemes.

Fertmark was established in 1992 as an independently assessed fertiliser quality assurance program.  Fertmark fertilisers also have ongoing, independent auditing that enables farmers to know exactly what they are applying to their pastures.

Spreadmark was established in 2001 as an independently audited spreading quality assurance scheme.   Spreadmark spreaders undergo regular certification and training and farmers can be assured that a Spreadmark operator can apply fertiliser at an even rate and distribution pattern.

With Fertmark there are 14 companies producing 69 registered products and with Spreadmark there are 89 accredited spreading companies located throughout New Zealand.

FQC Chair, Neil Barton, said that farmers can be proud of the FQC achievements.

"It is a world leading initiative," Neil Barton said.  "Nowhere else I know of has such a rigorous and ongoing auditing procedure.

"Farmers can be confident that Fertmark fertilisers are exactly what they are claimed to be and that Spreadmark operators will only put the fertiliser where the farmer wants it.

"That is sustainable agriculture at its best.   Fertmark fertilisers are independently audited to assure farmers the nutrients claimed are in the fertiliser.  This enables accurate soil nutrient assessment in the farm nutrient budget.   Spreadmark operators spread the amount of fertiliser a farmer wants where he or she wants it on the paddock and not on the road, the neighbours or in waterways.

"My belief is that in today's tight market farmers can't afford not to use Fertmark fertilisers and Spreadmark operators," Neil Barton said.

.:. .:. Wednesday 24 February 2010 - 09:46:41 .:.