The Future of the Biological Husbandry Unit (BHU)

Press Release

29 August 2023

The Biological Husbandry Unit Organics Trust (BHU) was established in 2001 to provide governance to the operation of the 10ha BHU farm and the delivery of the expectations defined in the agreement established in 2000 between Lincoln University and the organic sector. The vision of the BHU Trust is ‘to become a centre of excellence in vocational training for organic and more sustainable land-based production systems - combining demonstration, research, advisory services, commercial production and education in a unique holistic way’. The BHU is a registered charity (CC44519) governed by a board of trustees with representatives from the New Zealand organic movement, organic farmers/growers and Lincoln University.

Over the last 23 years, the BHU has facilitated the delivery of a wide range of services to support the development of the NZ organic sector, including the establishment of the Organic College in 2007 and the 20-year lease of Lincoln University campus area, creating the BHU Farm, which was renewed for a further 15 years in 2021. As with any organisation, we have had to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the organic sector, its stakeholders and other external factors.

The BHU is facing ongoing financial challenges with the Organic College, as with many tertiary providers, experiencing a decline in student enrolments, which has impacted its ability to subsidise the

BHU Farm and other operations. We are considering some significant changes for next year to stay afloat and continue operating. Here is a summary of the key changes the BHU is currently investigating in consultation with Lincoln University. These changes by the BHU represent a strategic response to the financial challenges and dynamic operating environment it faces. It is important to note that these changes are still formative; discussions with Lincoln University are ongoing.

Relocation of the Organic College: The Organic College will move to the Climate Action Campus in Christchurch and offer the same level 3 and 4 organics programs from February 2024 onwards.

At this time, the BHU farm lease will revert to Lincoln University. This means the BHU Trust will no longer be operating the BHU Farm. This will be a negotiated agreement to ensure minimal disruption to the community. The horticulture sector is significant to Lincoln University, and future research and community engagement opportunities with the BHU are being explored. Our intention is that we can work with Lincoln University to continue our legacy of sustainable organic education and research in Lincoln.

Our move to the Climate Action Campus will enable us to deliver practical horticulture courses, utilising the 1.8 hectares of grounds, classrooms, and facilities. We will continue to deliver hands-on courses that make the BHU Organic College unique, such as practical farming skills, pruning, bee-keeping, tunnel houses, composting, and soil management. The central location is accessible to a diverse range of students, helping us to grow a more inclusive college. This would also mean lower overheads and provide the BHU with fresh perspectives, resources, and a renewed sense of purpose in its mission to deliver organic horticulture education and promote sustainable practices.

Nga mihi

Penny Sewell-Platt – Chairperson
Bill Martin – Manager