South East Local Land Services is calling for expressions of interest from land managers on the Tablelands wanting to take part in a new soil testing program.
"The program will help land managers better understand soil fertility and ways to improve it and will also provide practical skills to help manage soil fertility and grow more grass." Said South East Local Land Services senior agriculture advisor Matthew Lieschke.
The program will include:
- Subsidised soil testing - participants will have the opportunity to do up to four soil tests per property based on a "two-for-one" offer. Soil testing is being offered for 0-10 cm tests only.
- A two-day face to face workshop in February 2021 with technical expertise and support using the successfulFive Easy Stepscourse to help producers interpret results and develop a fertiliser program that is tailored to their property.
The program is commencing this spring and is open to land managers who reside in the Yass Valley, Boorowa, Upper Lachlan, Goulburn-Mulwaree, Wingecarribee or Queanbeyan-Palerang local government areas.
"Mid to late spring is ideal for soil testing as it allows time for decision making around fertiliser use for the following summer/autumn application." Matt said.
"Sampling at this time of year provides a guide as to what nutrient levels remain after the peak spring growth has occurred.
"The Five Easy Steps course helps you work out what the numbers mean and develop a fertiliser program that is tailored to your soil type, stocking rate and production goals".
An initial two-hour session to explain the correct soil sampling protocol, tips on choosing which paddocks or areas to sample and loaning of soil coring equipment will be held in the week commencing 19 October – locations and venues to be advised.
Please register your interest by Friday, 16 October 2020 by going to the events section on the South East LLS website (www.lls.nsw.gov.au/regions/south-east/events).
This project is supported by South East Local Land Services through funding from the Australian Government's National Landcare Program.
