Data-driven Nitrate Management for Impact

Measure.
Analyse.
Act.

Move from estimates to data-driven decisions with HydroLabs.

We help farms, catchments, and processors reduce nitrate impacts while maintaining productivity through smart data and expert guidance.

Be Part of the Solution to Nitrate Pollution

Data-driven Nitrate managers

How we help you succeed

1. Measure

Start with expert assessment, then build your monitoring network

We begin with comprehensive hydrological and nitrate assessment by our expert consultants:Initial Expert Assessment:- Hydrological mapping identifies water flow patterns and critical pathways
- Nitrate source analysis pinpoints where nitrates enter your system
- Risk assessment evaluates high-impact areas and vulnerable zones
- Existing data review incorporates historical records and previous testing
- Site-specific evaluation considers soil types, topography, and land use

Phased Sensor Introduction

Based on expert assessment, we strategically introduce monitoring technology:- Phase 1 sensors target the most critical measurement points identified in assessment
- Portable sensors for immediate problem-solving and validation testing
- Surface sensors monitor key streams, drains, and waterway discharge points
- In-ground sensors track soil nitrates and groundwater in priority areas
Rainfall and weather stations provide essential environmental context

Integrated Systems

Measurement points are selected to also support intervention strategies:- Sensor placement enables before-and-after impact assessment
- Real-time monitoring guides timing of mitigation activities
- Data validates effectiveness of implemented solutions
Every connected sensor is linked to our cloud platform. Access your data anywhere, anytime.

2. Analyse

Smart insights that drive better decisions

Raw data becomes actionable intelligence through our advanced analytics platform:- Trend analysis shows nitrate patterns across seasons and years
Risk assessment identifies problem areas before they impact water quality
- Load calculations quantify nitrate movement through your system
- Weather correlation links rainfall and management to nitrate levels
- Benchmark comparisons show how you perform against similar operations
Our expert consultants work with you to interpret results and identify opportunities.

3. Act

Implement plans that deliver real results

Data-driven action plans tailored to your specific situation and goals:- Custom management protocols for fertilizer timing and application
- Mitigation strategies for high-risk areas and activities
- Reporting simplified for regulatory, valuation and market purposes
- Performance tracking monitors improvement over time
- Adaptive management adjusts plans based on new data and results

Managing nitrates isn’t just about protecting our land and water - it’s about safeguarding the legacy we leave for the next generation.Every decision we make in the field shapes the future of our farms, our communities, and our planet.

Programmes designed for you

HydroLabs offers flexible programmes for individual farmers, catchment community groups and processor supplier networks

1. Farm programme:Protect water quality and land values while maintaining productivity

Individual farmers can ensure their operations improve rather than harm water quality:- Baseline assessment establishes current nitrate impacts
- Targeted monitoring focuses on critical source areas and pathways
- Management plans minimize nitrate losses from fertilizer, effluent, and grazing
- Performance verification proves water quality improvements over time
- Cost-benefit analysis shows return on investment for mitigation efforts
Goal: Leave water cleaner than it arrives on your farm.

2. Catchment programme:Catchment-wide water quality improvement

Coordinate across multiple farms and land uses for catchment-scale impact:Catchment-wide monitoring network tracks overall water quality trends
Hotspot identification pinpoints priority areas for intervention
Collaborative planning brings farmers together for coordinated action
Shared infrastructure reduces costs through group monitoring and management
Progress reporting demonstrates community achievements to regulators and funders
Goal: Measurable improvement in catchment water quality through collective action.

3. Supplier network programme:Supply chain nitrate management

Help processors reduce environmental impact across their supplier base:- Supplier assessment evaluates nitrate risks across your supply chain
- Performance standards set clear expectations for supplier water quality
- Monitoring networks track supplier compliance and improvement
- Support services help suppliers meet environmental requirements
- Sustainability reporting demonstrates processor environmental leadership
Goal: Reduce supply chain nitrate impact while supporting supplier success.

You don’t have to make every change at once, but taking the first step toward better nitrate management today is the seed of a healthier farm tomorrow.Even small actions now can grow into big results for your land and your future.

Our Phased Approach

Start small or go big. You choose.

Phase 1: Assess (Months 1-3)

Understand your current situation- Install monitoring network at key locations or leverage portable testing
- Collect baseline data across different conditions
- Identify primary nitrate sources and pathways
- Assess current management practices and their effectiveness
- Develop initial risk assessment and priority areas

Phase 2: Evolve (Months 4-6)

Create your custom action plan- Analyze data patterns and trends from Phase 1
- Model different management scenarios and their impacts
- Design targeted interventions for priority areas
- Set realistic goals and timelines for improvement
- Develop monitoring plan to track progress

Phase 3: Expand (Months 7-18)

Put your plan into action- Implement priority management changes
- Continue monitoring to track immediate impacts
- Adjust strategies based on real performance data
- Expand successful approaches to other areas
- Regular progress reviews with expert consultants

Phase 4: Optimise (Ongoing)

Continuous improvement for lasting results- Long-term monitoring confirms sustained improvements
- Annual reviews identify new opportunities
- Adaptive management responds to changing conditions
- Knowledge sharing with other participants
- Regular reporting demonstrates ongoing success

Why work with HydroLabs

  • Proven Results: Our clients achieve measurable nitrate reductions while maintaining farm productivity.

  • Expert Team: HydroLabs (powered by HydroMetrics) is partnered with Lincoln Agritech providing access to world-leading water quality scientists who understand your challenges.

  • World Class Technology: Robust sensors and software designed for New Zealand farming conditions.

  • Complete Service: From initial assessment to ongoing optimization - we're your long-term partner.

  • Local Knowledge: We understand New Zealand farming, regulations, and environmental conditions..

Ready to Make an Impact?

Stop managing nitrates based on estimates. Start with making data-driven decisions that protect water quality and your bottom line.

Book a call with an expert.