Persistent Perennial Pastures and Acid Soil Action Project
Helping the Landcare community to effectively participate in natural resource management activities that address critical agricultural sustainability and environmental issues
Making a Difference - LLCI002-004
The issue
Most land managers in our area understand that acid soils are a problem. Many may not realise the extent of the threat acid soils pose as a major land degradation issue effecting both environmental and economic sustainability.
Acidic soils and subsoils can have a major influence on soil health and perennial pasture establishment and longevity. Acid soils are often characterised by decreasing ground cover, increased unwanted annual species, inefficient fertiliser uptake, along with reduced soil fertility and effects on soil biological characteristics. It can contribute to the loss of topsoil through inadequate ground cover and impact on our waterways though sediment and nutrient runoff.
The solution
The project was developed in partnership with the Lithgow Oberon Landcare Association, Rydal Grazier Group, and Local Land Services. The aim was to raise awareness of the impacts of acid soils and provide practical assistance in managing these soils to improve sustainable agriculture outcomes.
The project included: working with land managers to conduct a soil survey and using the results to produce a guide outlining best practice management responses to the range of soil conditions experienced within the area; running a workshop to discuss the survey results and their implications; and running 2 paddock walks where participants could see for themselves the on-ground impacts and effects acid soils and acid soil management strategies
The impact
The project has provided practical support to land managers to tackle acid soils by focusing on capacity building activities. It has also provided a forum for the local agricultural community to share local knowledge and ideas, to ask questions and to consolidate and expand their network.
Over the 18 month period that the activities and workshops ran, attendance went from a handful in the planning stage to around 40 at the last event. Feedback has affirmed that participants have found the events to be of value with many land mangers confirming that they have adopted more sustainable practices following the information gleaned from the Persistent Perennial Pastures and Acid Soil Action Project.
Key facts
- Number of farming entities adopting sustainable practice change as a result of the project = 15
- Area of land (Ha) on which improved management practices have been implemented as a result of the project = 4844 Ha
- Number of people participating in NRM as a result of the project = 42