SOIL health was on the agenda at a recent roundtable meeting with the National Soils Advocate, Penny Wensley, during her trip to the Limestone Coast.
Held at the end of June, the roundtable facilitated a discussion between local organisations and Ms Wensley about the National Soil Strategy, and local concerns.
Organisations such as the Limestone Coast Grape & Wine Council, Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA and Green Triangle Forest Industry Hub were in attendance.
Steve Bourne, general manager of the Limestone Coast Landscape Board (LCLB), said the event helped to facilitate discussion on overall soil health in the region.
“It brought together quite a diverse range of groups,” Mr Bourne said.
“It seemed to be a helpful exercise for those who were there.”
“We spent some time discussing why the focus is on soil carbon when it needs to be on soil health…there is more to health soil than just having enough carbon in your soil.”
Barriers facing the region’s soil health were discussed by those in attendance.
“There is a lack of research and knowledge around soils, and a lot of it is really old and dated,” Mr Bourne said.
“Concerns were raised that it is holding back progress in some areas, and Ms Wensley said she would do some advocacy around that.”
Mr Bourne said the impacts of climate change were front of mind for many in attendance.
“There is a real sense of urgency that has been created by climate change,” Mr Bourne said.
Mr Pasin said improving soil health was essential for local industry.
“The National Soil Advocate’s visit to Barker was a mutually beneficial exercise to identify the opportunities and challenges of the National Soil Strategy,” Mr Pasin said.
The National Soil Strategy commenced in 2021 and is a 20-year strategy to help promote soil health and innovation.
“Barker produces some of the highest quality food and fibre in the world and soil stewardship plays an integral role in driving productivity and delivering resilience to climate challenges as well as food and water security,” Mr Pasin said.
