An EcoFarmer’s Discovery Chapter 14: The BeachThe EcoFarm Aotearoa Podcast

Welcome to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery: The Companion Podcast, where every Friday we dive into one chapter of Ewan Campbell’s journey.

Read or listen along by searching An EcoFarmer’s Discovery on Spotify, or find the book on Audible and Kindle. Each episode unpacks the stories and principles behind regenerative farming, with 26 chapters released across 26 weeks.

In This Episode
This episode covers Chapter 14 and explores the role of seawater, cyanobacteria, and marine minerals in soil, plant, animal, and human health.

Ewan reflects on the research of Dr Maynard Murray and others, drawing connections between ocean health, mineralisation, and biological function on land. The discussion explains why seawater cannot be replicated synthetically, how cyanobacteria underpin carbon accumulation, and why biology fails when exposed to chemicals and aluminium.

The conversation moves from theory to practice, covering early on-farm seawater trials, logistical challenges, mineral interactions, and surprising results such as explosive pasture growth and worm activity. The episode also touches on serpentine, historical fertiliser choices, and why relying on short-lived products can leave farmers stuck when tools disappear.

We explore:
• Why seawater is biologically alive and cannot be manufactured
• The role of cyanobacteria in carbon, soil structure, and nutrient flow
• Links between ocean health, soil health, and animal performance
• Seawater as fertiliser, fungicide, and biological inoculant
• Practical lessons from early trials and mineral interactions
• Why nature-based systems consistently outperform chemical fixes

This episode is about first principles, biological intelligence, and understanding that healthy farms, animals, and people all begin with functioning soil biology.

Follow along. Watch full episodes on YouTube and Spotify Video.

Useful links:
• Learn more at EcoFarm Aotearoa (efa.nz)

Our FREE E-Book:
https://www.ecofarmaotearoa.nz/download-our-ebook/

Listen to An EcoFarmer’s Discovery:
https://open.spotify.com/show/3wIgUUghlsKIje76E5tjBA?si=d5fd8cf669b14be0