Local farmers invited to learn practical strategies for protecting soil and nutrients Cann River – Friday 25 September
Farmers across Far East Gippsland will have a unique opportunity to learn from internationally recognised soil specialist Joel Williams when he visits Cann River
As part of the TopSoils program. The practical farm walk and presentation will focus on an increasingly important issue for local farmers — how to protect soil, nutrients and productivity during heavy rainfall events. The day will begin with a morning presentation at the Monaro Centre in Cann River, where Joel will discuss practical soil management strategies and answer questions from local farmers. Following lunch, the group will head out onto a local farm for a practical paddock walk. Soil tests will be used during the session, giving participants an opportunity to look at the soil in the paddock and gain practical insights into its condition and management. “Farmers in Far East Gippsland know that rainfall events can become bigger and more intense the further east you go,” said Far East Victoria Landcare Facilitator Josh Puglisi. “This is a great opportunity for local farmers to get practical, personalised information from someone with Joel’s depth of soil knowledge. Importantly, the day is free and attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions about their own soils and farming situations, In the past years Joels prestation’s have attracted farmers from across Victoria and NSW to our region”. Joel Williams is well known for his ability to communicate complex soil science in practical, easy-to-understand ways, with a focus on improving soil health, nutrient efficiency and farm resilience. The Cann River event will explore a range of practical soil management topics, including: Soil structure and aggregation Porosity and water infiltration Soil compaction Erosion control Soil amendments Groundcover management Residuals and nutrient retention Multi-species plantings and the benefits of diverse root systems The focus will be on practical strategies farmers can use to improve soil health and reduce the loss of valuable soil and nutrients during major rainfall events. “With the increasing importance of building resilient soils, this is a really valuable opportunity for farmers in the Cann River and surrounding areas,” Mr. Puglisi said. “Having Joel present the information in the morning and then being able to get out into a paddock after lunch, look at actual soil tests and discuss what farmers are seeing in the field makes this a particularly useful day.” The TopSoils Farm Walk and Presentation will be held on Friday 25 September, commencing at 10.30am at the Monaro Centre in Cann River, followed by lunch and an afternoon paddock walk and soil assessment. The event is being organised through the TopSoils program with support from Far East Victoria Landcare. Bookings are essential. For more information and to book, visit www.fevl.org.au/contact. TopSoils Farm Walk & Presentation
Friday 25 September | 10.30am | Monaro Centre, Cann River
Morning presentation followed by lunch and paddock walk with soil testing
Free event | Lunch included
