Mythbusting Organics
Mythbusting Organics
Dispelling the myths around Organic Certification, Potential markets & Weed control, while providing a forum for like minded producers to air their "Trials and Tribulations"
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The issue
Through feedback from other projects and field days, Northern Slopes Landcare Association recognised that there was a need for more knowledge sharing and extension with regards to becoming Certified Organic. There seemed to be a considerable amount of confusion and fear when it came to making the change, however despite this there is a growing number of producers looking to become Certified Organic producers, and in turn an ever increasing need for more Organic produce. In addition, producers indicated to us a need to be able to get together with other Organic farmers in the area to discuss their experiences, breakthroughs and challenges
The solution
Through discussions with NASAA Organic, Northern Slopes Landcare Association brought together a quartet of industry specialists to head up a "Mythbusting Organics" workshop to address producers' questions in regards to the Organics industry. The workshop drew attendees from across the North West region and as far as Goondiwindi, as well as attracting media attention, with the ABC interviewing presenters and attendees for a radio segment.
Peter Hastie from NASAA organic spoke on the steps to Certification, Glenn Morris from Fig Tree Organic Farms described some of the methods they employ in running a successful commercial Organic operation. Geoff Bassett opened everyone's minds to the prospect of addressing soil nutrient deficiency to combat weeds, and Simone Tully from Australian Organic Meats discussed the increasing demand for Organic meats in both domestic and export markets
The impact
Feedback on the day was very positive, with most attendees expressing their interest in attending further workshops and field days to further increase their knowledge with regards to Organic and Biological Farming methods. There is increasing interest among local farmers in producing healthy foods grown in/on healthy soils, and with the demand for sustainably produced foods continuing to grow, any encouragement and assistance which can be provided to assist farmers with the changeover process and with addressing weed control issues will continue to grow in popularity .
Key facts
- Many farmers are now turning to Organic farming practices to improve their own health as well as that of the soils and ecological communities on their properties
- There is an identified increasing need for Organically produced food, with both domestic and export markets are growing at a good pace