Soil and Success: Strategies for Drought-Resistant Farming Event

Attendees at the Soil & Success event.

On Wednesday, 11th December, the Ag Bureau successfully hosted the Soil and Success: Strategies for Drought-Resistant Farming event at the Paskeville Football Club. Over 40 guests gathered to hear from leading experts on key topics, including soil microbial health, restorative agriculture techniques, and moisture-retaining methods.

Attendees enjoyed a mix of thought-provoking talks and light-hearted entertainment, including a brief comedic interlude.

Insights from Expert Speakers:

The first speaker, Leighton Wilksch, delved into the world of AgTech Monitoring, discussing how in-paddock data can support better decision-making. His presentation highlighted strategies for improving moisture retention in crops, a critical factor in drought-prone regions like Paskeville.

Next, Chris Davey took the stage to explore the importance of soil health. He encouraged attendees to consider what soil health means to them, noting that its definition can vary depending on soil type and farming goals. Chris provided practical insights on identifying soil health in different soil types, the traditional characteristics of Paskeville’s soils, and actionable steps farmers can take to enhance soil quality.

The keynote speaker, Dr. Allan Mayfield, captivated the audience with his reflections on global agricultural practices and emerging trends. Drawing on his extensive experience as an agronomist, Dr. Mayfield shared a forward-looking perspective on the future of farming and the steps needed to build resilience in the face of challenges like climate variability.

The addition of Tyson Adams’ presentation on FarmTrak’s capabilities rounded out the event by showcasing innovative tools to support sustainable and efficient farming practices and how this could benefit the local farming community.

The event concluded with a hearty roast dinner, setting the tone for an informative and engaging gathering.