Post-harvest is the perfect time for orchard operators to step back and review compliance before the next growing season ramps up. Taking a structured approach to post-harvest orchard compliance can help avoid delays, reduce risk, and ensure everything is running smoothly for the season ahead.
Here is a simple checklist to work through:
1. Are your consents up to date?
Now is a good time to confirm all resource consents are current and being complied with:
- Irrigation and water take consents current and compliant
- Any land use or earthworks consents reviewed post-season
- Conditions still aligned with how the orchard is actually being run?
2. Are your monitoring records completed?
Make sure all required environmental records are finished and stored correctly:
- Irrigation usage records up to date
- Water meter readings recorded and submitted if required
- Fertiliser and spray application records completed
- Any required environmental reporting finalised for the season
3. Any upcoming renewals or changes?
Planning ahead can help avoid delays and ensure continued compliance with consent requirements:
- Consent expiry dates checked for the next 1–2 years
- Planned replanting, redevelopment, or expansion identified early
- Changes in irrigation/frost protection demand
- Any infrastructure upgrades that may need consent input?
4. Infrastructure condition check
Post-harvest is a good time to inspect and maintain key infrastructure systems:
- Irrigation system (lines, pumps, etc)
- Water storage tanks or reservoirs
- Drainage systems and runoff pathways
- Frost protection system
Once harvest is finished, there’s a short window to reset systems and make sure everything is in good shape before the next season begins. A quick compliance check now can prevent delays, non-compliance, and unexpected costs later.
Natalia Zefferino
Environmental Consultant