NSW Landcare Award Nomination
NSW Landcare Award Nomination
David Marsh from “Allendale” Boorowa took out the Australian Government Individual Landcarer Award at the NSW Landcare conference held in Albury in October 2017.
Making a Difference -
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The issue
David Marsh was a gentle and persuasive catalyst for the early landcare movement in Boorowa. In response to trees dying, exacerbated by defoliation by scarab beetles, a number of landholders were asking questions about conventional management practices.
David was instrumental in the formation of Boorowa Community Landcare Group (BCLG) in 1989 and was president when they successfully applied for funding for John Powell to map discharge areas. A second round of funding formed the Boorowa Salinity Catchment Action Plan which prioritised plantings of trees and perennial deep rooted plants upslope of discharge areas.
The solution
In response to eucalyptus die back and dryland salinity, David has planted approximately 15% of his 841 ha property to native trees and large areas of perennial pastures since 1981. The Marshes property "Allendale" is a gazetted a wildlife refuge.
Once people saw what was happening on David's property, the reduction of salt scalds and understanding the importance of ground cover, he encouraged others to participate in landcare activities. The power of the group made it possible to source funding for this early mapping and on-ground works, identifying solutions where previously there was only problems.
David was one of the first people in the Boorowa district to use direct seeding techniques for native planting trees & shrubs, a service that BCLG still offers today to generate some funds for the group.
The impact
David's greatest gift is that he is able to articulate what he is doing, what he is passionate about and how it relates to the whole farm system. He is a precious resource, generous with his time and has a willingness to share his knowledge and experience.
David has hosted many field days and workshops on his property "Allendale"and its proximity to Canberra means that many research projects have been undertaken, including students from Australian National University.The Canberra Ornithologists group continues to do bird surveys evaluating the success of plantings to create habitat for threatened species.
He has inspired many community members and students to make a connection with the environment and implement change on land that they manage.
Key facts
- Landcare NSW Awards are an opportunity to celebrate local landcare champions.
- The process of David Marsh's landcare nomination has collated historical information of the early Boorowa Landcare days.
- Sharing the message to manage for improved biodiversity and resilience.