Quorum Sense takes Six Inches of Soil to Parliament

Last week, Ministers and Members of Parliament filled the Beehive’s Theatrette to watch the UK regenerative farming documentary, Six Inches of Soil, and discuss the role of soil in addressing New Zealand’s food, farming and climate challenges.

Hosted by Quorum Sense, the cross-party event was well attended by agricultural ministers and MPs across primary production, climate, food and rural issues.

Jules Matthews (sheep & beef farmer), Becks Smith (Chair, Quorum Sense), Scott Willis MP, Steve Abel MP, Barbara Kuriger MP & Deputy Speaker of the House, Susan Miller-Thevenald (Organics Aoteroa board member), Chloe Dear (Quorum Sense), Chris Falconer (farmer)

Barbara Kuriger, National MP for Taranaki-King Country and Deputy Speaker of the House, said: “Six Inches of Soil was a celebration of soil and farming. It really brought home the opportunity that exists right under our feet. We are all dealing with droughts and floods, we are dealing with generational change in farming. We have a big job in front of us, but we also have a big opportunity to ensure we are all living well on the whenua.”

Six Inches of Soil was released in the UK earlier this year. It follows three young British farmers on the first year of their regenerative agriculture journey. As the trio strive to adopt regenerative practices and create viable businesses, they meet seasoned mentors who help them on their journey including New Zealand-born agroecologist, Nicole Masters.

Chair for Quorum Sense, Becks Smith said, “We brought the film to Aotearoa to educate communities about soil and to show how farming can be a positive for nature. Regenerative agriculture is an avenue for hope in our rural sector.

“There is a growing global movement to regenerate our agricultural landscapes. The answer to achieving sustainability in our sector is by regenerating. We must be net positive across all metrics, or something will have to give.” 

A short film by Deane Parker, featuring New Zealand farmers engaging in regenerative agriculture was also played at Parliament.

“The movement for regeneration is being led by farmers, they’re the ones taking positive actions to clean up waterways, protect and enhance our native biodiversity, reduce soil erosion, build resilience in our businesses, communities and economy.”

There are more than 1500 farmers, growers and scientists in the Quorum Sense network. Through peer to peer learning, field days and discussion groups, farmers are improving soil biology, animal health and wellbeing, ecological biodiversity, farm productivity and profitability. 

The film has been screened in 45 independent cinemas around the country over the past few months inspiring urban and rural communities to think about where their food comes from and how it’s grown.