November 14, 2022
University researchers are looking for farmers to take part in a national soil testing program.
Southern Cross University and the Environmental Analysis Laboratory is inviting farmers and land managers across the country to participate in a Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry soil sampling and analysis program.
They will receive $275 per sampling site, capped at $10,000 per ABN, towards the cost of soil sampling and analysis and sharing the data.
They can also receive assistance from Commonwealth-funded soil extension officers to interpret their soil test results.
The data collected from the pilot Soil Monitoring Incentives Program will help farmers to make informed decisions on land management practices and will also be available for others to use through the Australian National Soil Information System (ANSIS).
EAL spokesperson Graham Lancaster said participating in the soil sampling initiative would enable farmers to benchmark the carbon or organic matter of their farm soil and could even contribute to Emissions Reduction Fund projects.
“It’s really important we get farmers from across the country involved, and lots of them, so that in future those making policy decisions around soils will have relevant data for informed decisions,” Southern Cross Uni (SCU) project officer Debbe Allen said.
“Currently, there is not enough quality data to make confident recommendations, and compared with the rest of the world, we are decades behind with this.
“It might cost farmers a little more money, but it might also save them significantly on ameliorants if they know what nutrients their pastures and crops can already access below the top 10cm layer.”
SCU is also looking for qualified agronomists across the country with soil sampling experience to come on board to assist with delivering the program.
- More information is available online or by phoning (02) 6620-3489.
