Lincoln University’s ‘World-Best Practice’ Dairy Farm Exposed In Shocking New Footage

SAFE condemns Lincoln University following the release of footage from its dairy demonstration farm filmed between 11-13 August. The footage shows calves piled in a trailer and cows standing in mud and waste, challenging the farm’s claim to 'world-best practice'. SAFE Campaign Manager Emma Brodie asserts, "If this is what Lincoln University holds up as world-best practice, it shows just how deeply animal suffering is embedded in New Zealand’s dairy industry." SAFE criticizes the farm for contributing to environmental harm through practices like mud farming that exacerbate nitrate leaching, affecting community water safety.

A formal complaint was lodged with the Ministry for Primary Industries. SAFE also initiated an awareness campaign during calving season, highlighting the grim fate of newborn calves. Brodie emphasizes, "This is the training ground for future dairy farmers", warning that such practices set a dangerous precedent for the industry. SAFE encourages public support by advocating for a dairy-free lifestyle and signing a petition to end mud farming, which has already gathered over 15,000 signatures. These revelations urge a reevaluation of the practices promoted as benchmarks of dairy farming to ensure alignment with sustainability and animal welfare principles.