The Central Tablelands LLS Regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) Awards were recently announced. The awards recognise dedicated individuals, groups and organisations in our region practising and promoting natural resource and environmental management excellence.

Our region was very successful taking out 5 of the 8 award categories: Innovation in Sustainable Farm Practices; Young Landcare Leader; Junior Landcare Team; Innovative Community Group and Facilitator/Coordinator.

Local winemaker, David Lowe, received the Innovation in Sustainable Farm Practices Award for his passion and commitment to the adoption of sustainable and regenerative practices at the Lowe vineyards. The Lowe vineyards are managed with a focus on soil health, and in particular soil microbiology, and through the adoption of practices such as large scale compost production, inter-row no-till cover cropping and the use of biodynamic preparations as soil conditioners and foliar sprays, have improved soil structure, nutrient cycling and water retention, reduced erosion risk and increased fertility and productivity.

Kurtis Lindsay was recognised for his passion for wildlife research, conservation and management and active promotion of environmental, wildlife and conservation issues to the wider community, receiving the Young Landcare Leader award. As a founding member and secretary of the Friends of the Putta Bucca Wetlands, Kurtis has been very involved with Mid-Western Regional Council staff and various volunteer groups to establish best management practice in all aspects of restoration, rehabilitation and maintenance of the wetland reserve.

Goolma School have engaged in environmental programs over several years to enhance the local environment and have incorporated environmental studies into all aspects of the curriculum. The school has worked to improve the biodiversity and habitat values of nearby remnant vegetation by providing protective habitat for small birds and planting a butterfly garden. To ensure that the activities conducted to enhance the environment have a sound scientific basis students have been involved in sampling and recording data and looking at long term trends. One of their greatest achievements has been the level of community involvement in these projects. Not just the teachers, kids and parents but the whole Goolma community are engaged. Their efforts have been recognised through the Junior Landcare Team award.

Watershed Landcare was also acknowledged for our contribution to environmental sustainability and natural resource management in our region, receiving the Innovative Community Group and Facilitator/Coordinator awards.

Want to find out more about what we do, our projects and how to get involved? Visit our website (www.watershedlandcare.com.au) or contact our coordinator, Agness Knapik, on 0435 055 493 or info@watershedlandcare.com.au.

All regional award winners will have nominations submitted to the NSW State Landcare awards which will be announced at the NSW Landcare Conference. The 2015 NSW Landcare and LLS conference, 'From the Ground Up', will be celebrating the International Year of Soils and will be held in Orange from 1 to 3 September 2015.