Some farmers are seeing opportunities where previously there were only problems as they adapt to salinity constraints on their farm.

At the recent WA Farmers livestock forum in Kellerberrin, Wheatbelt farmer Tony York demonstrated what he was doing to tackle the issue.

Tony’s Tammin property has significant saline areas unsuited to cropping but rather than abandon these areas, he has embraced them.  Planting sub-species of Old Man Saltbush has allowed him to increase his stock to crop ratio by providing an all year feed source for his 6500 head merino ewe flock.  The season they have had their best ever lambing rate at 120%, an achievement he believes saltbush has contributed to.

“We are lucky to have so much salt country or we wouldn’t still be in sheep” Tony said at the livestock forum.

Making better use of marginal land and increasing ground cover can impact on issues such as wind erosion and improve soil carbon.

Turning unproductive and marginal land into feed sources can positively influence the bottom line.  Particularly in recent times when prices for meat and wool have been so strong.

Through the National Landcare Program Wheatbelt NRM is working with mixed farmers maximise the productivity benefits of summer grazing options. Demonstrating how the various options can work together to bridge the summer feed gap is the aim of the project.

We are looking for mixed farmers who would like to investigate how grazing options can be used to benefit their business. Please contact Bonny Dunlop-Heague on 08 9670 3132, mobile 0477 885 514 or email bdunlop@wheatbeltnrm.org.au to register your interest.