Dung Beetles

In many sub-catchments across Te Hoiere, dung beetles have been released to improve water quality. In 2021/2022, 10 dung beetle farm packs were released in Linkwater as part of the project, across five dairy farms, as well as more farm packs released in the Lower Pelorus and Rai Valley.

Dung beetles are not only known to reduce runoff into waterways but also improve soil health, including aeration of the soil and biological activity. Other on-farm benefits include increased grass growth and amount of pasture available, as well as reduced infection of livestock by parasitic worms.

Through the Project, subsidies are available for landowners to release dung beetles on their properties. The Project works with the experts at Dung Beetle Innovations, where different beetles are recommended based on climate, soils and type of farm. Beetles approved for use in New Zealand also range in size, seasonal activity and even dung preference.

Within 48 hours of placing dung beetles into a small pile of manure, it can disappear. Dung beetles eat manure but also bury it in the ground to lay eggs inside. The larvae then eat the dung, too. Once buried, it can no longer be washed into waterways in the rain and burial also breaks the parasitic worm life cycle meaning less drenching for farmers. Get in touch with us today to find out more about the subsidy. We can also put you in touch with another farmer in the catchment who has released dung beetles on their property.

• At full price, each pack would cost $6000 for a full four-season pack (for a herd of about 300 cows).
• Through the Project, landowners receive a multi-pack discount and $2000 subsidy.
• Results in 3 to 7 years, depending on how many packs are released per herd.
• Ask us about smaller packs for smallholdings and lifestyle blocks.
• Ask us how collaborating with neighbours can speed up establishment and potential benefits.

Read about dung beetles in Linkwater from New Zealand Dairy Exporter.