A South Canterbury dairy farmer has been awarded the Lincoln University Medal in recognition of his long voluntary service to the university.

Alvin Reid helped develop the South Island Dairying Development Centre (SIDDC) based at Lincoln University and the university's dairy farm in 2000-2001.

He was a founding member of the SIDDC board and served on the dairy farm's business advisory group.

In recent times he has been a member and leader of the review of the dairy farm and the development of its new precision dairying focus.

Lincoln chancellor Tom Lambie said Mr Reid had made a sustained and significant voluntary contribution to the agricultural extension activities of Lincoln University for many years.

"He continues to abundantly contribute his time, wisdom and energy and fully deserves the honour of receiving the Lincoln University Medal."

The Winchester farmer shrugged off the praise.

"I didn't think I did anything extraordinary. You do these things because of the people that are employed, dairy research and commercial activity.

"They're a great bunch of people that put a massive amount of effort in and any voluntary effort we can put in just goes along to support that. I just love dairy farming," he said.

Recipients are nominated for the medal and that nomination is assessed by the council.

The medal acknowledges meritorious service by staff members, alumni or community members who have made long and outstanding contributions supporting the "fabric and reputation" of the university.

The creation of SIDDC and development of the dairy farm were two "substantial initiatives" that enhanced Lincoln University's engagement with the South Island dairying industry.

Alvin Reid is a past winner of the South Island Farmer of the Year award. He is also served as a director of Livestock Improvement Corporation and Dexcel (now DairyNZ).

- © Fairfax NZ News