A new InfraTrain training course for contractors and designers of dairy effluent ponds has places open for people wanting to get up to speed with new design standards.
The training course has been established by DairyNZ in conjunction with InfraTrain New Zealand and Opus International Consultants.
InfraTrain Chief Executive Philip Aldridge says the course has been set up for contractors and designers to meet rising demand on dairy farms for well-constructed effluent storage.
"It is estimated 4000 new effluent ponds will be constructed in the next five years as farmers upgrade their effluent storage systems and increase storage capacity. This is a practical course for people who want to service this growing area of business," says Mr Aldridge.
The course is split into two days focusing on construction with the third day focusing on pond design.
Opus International Consultants Environmental Training Centre Manager Jonathan Mackey says practical examples and expert guest speakers are used throughout the programme.
"Our course trainers have many years' experience in this business and were heavily involved in drafting the recently released Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand Practice Note 21: Design and Construction of FDE ponds. This is the first industry-wide good practice guidance document on FDE ponds we have."
The course will be run in seven towns across the country starting in June. With the first courses in Palmerston North and Invercargill already close to filling, organisers Opus are encouraging people to book in early.
"Get the advantage of being trained first and register your interest at www.nzweta.org.nz."
Those who successfully complete the course will become part of a network of trained pond designers and/or contractors listed on the InfraTrain website. DairyNZ Project Manager for Effluent Dr Theresa Wilson says DairyNZ will strongly support trained companies.
"This is a growth area for business with dairy farmers who are increasing their storage. DairyNZ will be actively advising farmers to use companies who have gone through the training course so they can be sure they will get trained advisers."
Two courses are planned for Hamilton: June 26-28 and August 21-23.
For more information about course details or to register visit www.nzweta.org.nz
- By Te Awamutu Courier staff