An attractive, coloured brochure has recently been released by the Yellow Creek–Dairy Creek Landcare Group.
Based within the Murrindindi Shire, the Yellow Creek–Dairy Creek Group was formed 10 years ago to combat Paterson's Curse in the district.
It has since evolved into a dynamic, family oriented group looking at broader environmental issues.
The brochure is one such initiative, employing strategic methods to address environmental concerns with accompanying relevant photographs, portraying how caring for the environment and good farming practices can complement each other with natural and superior outcomes.
Cindy McLeish MP, State Member for Eildon, attended the launch of the brochure 'Caring for the land – sustainable agriculture', and spoke of its relevance to the beauty of our country which we must endeavour to maintain.
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Chris Cobern, coordinator for the Upper Goulburn Landcare Network, emphasised the importance of the brochure for the entire Australian agricultural landscape.
The brochure was written and designed by Yea–based Rod Cavanagh and his daughter Annette.
They consider that at times there exists a disconnect between Landcare agendas and with farmers and the wider agricultural scene.
They set about to redress this situation.
Both Rod and Annette are members of the YCDC Landcare Group, Annette also being the chair of the national Intrepid Landcare.
Rod, who rejects the term 'greenie', has life experience as a shearer, farm hand, and working utility stock dogs, as well as having widely travelled in outback Australia.
Annette has Bachelor degrees in conservation biology and environmental science, and is completing a PhD at La Trobe University.
She is assessing the value of natural assets on a range of agricultural properties and has worked as a botanist throughout Victoria, NSW, and Tasmania.
Although both Rod and Annette are knowledgeable in their own fields, they have sought qualified help from others who have advised and clarified the strategies and results within the brochure.
The brochure outlines a vast array of strategies that brings farmers and conservationists together.
They are in a dot–point format having highlights for easy reading and quick reference.
Some strategies with simple steps can often have large positive impacts, for example:
– Refrain from clearing patches of bush, scrub, and fallen limbs, and from disturbing and grazing rocky outcrops.
These areas can provide ecological refuges and a delicate balance of biodiversity.
– Limit topsoil humus disturbance and monitor and regulate both soil pH levels and plant nutrition requirements.
– Limit the use of chemical sprays and chemical parasitic control – be mindful of insect pollinators and topsoil microorganisms.
– Rotate and crash graze pastures, having some deep–rooted perennials, with intermittent long spells.
This encourages plant root development and organic matter within the soil – the 'kick–start' mechanism for microbial activity.
Results are a major feature.
They give an overview of what can be achieved with both agriculture and environmental issues such as rectifying erosion and salt encroachment, so that high productive land can be reclaimed.
Coloured photographs compliment many features and captures the desire to investigate the content.
The brochure encourages common–sense practices of regenerative farming which has become a critical part of our life.
"Quality and quantity are important farming aspects along with profitability, and increased profit margins with sustainable and healthy farming can be attained," said Rod.
"We must strive for community collaboration and work together."
To obtain 'Caring for the land – sustainable agriculture' brochures contact:
Upper Goulburn Landcare Network Coordinator
Chris Cobern P. 0413 855490 E. ugln.projects@ugln.net
See website link www.ugln.net/about/resources
