Wheatbelt NRMs Optimising fodder options in mixed farming project has identified the eight farms we will be working with over the next four years to demonstrate how ground cover options can be maximised for soil health and productivity gains.
Each farm will be the centre of a community learning program with field days and case studies provide an opportunity for other farmers to see what is happening and learn how some of the practices might benefit their own business.
Each farm will develop a ground cover plan which seeks to increase ground cover over the summer period where a feed gap occurs. Using forage shrubs, summer cropping and pasture options an economic analysis will provide information on business benefits. Implementation of some of the plan recommendations will enable others to experience the outcomes through farmer field days.
Maintaining ground cover is an important intervention to minimise erosion and increase soil carbon and overall soil health.
Farms were selected on a range of criteria including location and farming systems so we could ensure all farmers could learn something that was relevant to them.
The successful farmers were:
- Hugh Morgan -Bencubbin
- Daniel Dempster - Southern Brook
- Bruce Storer - Cunderdin
- Nick Kelly - Newdegate
- Kane Page - Pingellly
- Justin and Kelly Mann - Beverley
- Ken Mutton - Wickepin; and
- Jeff Wyhte - Kondinin.
We look forward to following your progress as your plans develop.
Photo of Hugh Morgan form Bencubbin