A short clip from a previous episode sparked plenty of debate online, so Ewan Campbell is taking the opportunity to dive deeper into one of agriculture's most misunderstood topics: nitrates.

In this episode:In this episode of EcoFarm Aotearoa, Ewan unpacks the science behind the nitrogen cycle, explains the difference between nitrate and ammonium, and explores why so much confusion exists around nitrates in farming. Rather than focusing on symptoms, he looks at the biological processes that naturally convert nitrogen into plant-available proteins and why healthy soil biology is key to productive farms, cleaner waterways and healthier livestock.

The conversation also examines how excess nitrate can impact pasture quality, milk production, animal health and water quality, while challenging some of the assumptions that have become accepted as "normal" within modern agriculture. Whether you agreed or disagreed with the original clip, this episode provides the full context behind the discussion and explains the reasoning in much greater detail.

We Discuss:

- The difference between nitrate and ammonium

- Understanding the natural nitrogen cycle

- How healthy soil biology converts nitrogen- Why excess nitrate can affect livestock health

- The connection between nitrogen, waterways and food quality

- Why current testing standards may be misleading

- Practical ways to improve nitrogen efficiency on farm

If you're interested in regenerative agriculture, soil biology, livestock nutrition and practical farming solutions backed by observation and testing, this episode offers a fresh perspective on one of farming's biggest conversations.

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