In this episode, Stephen heads to the West Coast for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine to see firsthand how mining by-products are transformed into valuable inputs for regenerative farming.

Joined by the mine team, Stephen follows the journey from freshly mined coal through the wash plant, stockpiles, rehabilitation areas, and fertilizer blending operation, uncovering the geology, engineering, and innovation behind products now being used on farms across New Zealand.

The tour highlights how materials once considered waste are now being repurposed into EcoFarm soil products, while also showcasing mine restoration, environmental management, and the people driving practical solutions on the ground.

Through the EFA lens, this episode explores the intersection of mining, soil biology, and agriculture, demonstrating how collaboration between industries can unlock new opportunities for farmers.

We discuss:

• A full behind-the-scenes tour of the Reefton coal mine
• How coal is processed, washed, and prepared for different industries
• The surprising journey from mine by-products to EcoFarm fertilizers
• Soluble silica, humates, papa rock, and mineral blending
• Mine rehabilitation and restoring land after extraction
• How EcoFarm products are mixed and shipped around New Zealand
• The people, machinery, and innovation behind one of New Zealand's most unique farming partnerships

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Purchase Our E-Book!⁠https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/product/6-crucial-links-for-boosting-soil-health-and-farm-profit/⁠Listen To An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=b4aa009579a34ac1⁠⁠