An intensive workshop hosted by NRM Regions Australia to inform the next iteration of the National Soil Action Plan on 7 May attracted a fantastic turnout of regional NRM staff.
The workshop was facilitated by the Australian Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) who shared the key findings from their national NRM organisation survey and consultation process, which showed strong regional commitment, a growing demand for independent soil extension, increased participation in national soil monitoring programs, and rising interest in mentoring and training to build soil science capability.
The National Soil Monitoring Program is being delivered by CSIRO from funding provided by the Australian Government through the Natural Heritage Trust. Regional NRM organisations across Australia are supporting the field component of this national initiative and provide a national network to support soil health across diverse landscapes and communities.
Chris Norman is the sector’s national soil health champion and explained the role of regional NRM organisations in working to improve and protect soils condition to build and strengthen climate resilience and support healthier, more productive landscapes
“I see the NRM sector as a potential leader in the soil space going forward, and am keen to keep building the capacity of the NRM sector for our farmers and communities” he said.
Rachel Cavallo, Project Manager (Soils) BMRG presented her work with the Queensland Soil Science Graduate Program, which supports early-career soil professionals to build applied soil knowledge and networks across regional NRMs and industry. The program aims to address the loss of soil expertise in Australia due to the aging workforce by strengthening peer networks, providing mentoring and supporting knowledge and resource sharing to upskill recent university graduates.Â
