Funding Available To Minimise Wind Erosion (WA)

Farmers in the Avon River Basin (WA) have until 30 August to apply for funding to help implement action to reduce the impact of wind erosion on their properties.

The Department of Agriculture and Food is a project partner working with farmers applying for between $5000 and $50,000 of Caring for our Country Federal funds as part of the Wheatbelt NRM Soil Conservation Incentives Program.

Department development officer Natalie Hogg said wind erosion could be a significant challenge for farmers in the area, especially under dry, cold conditions.

“Wind erosion results in the loss of topsoil and, as a result, valuable soil nutrition, which can result in yield losses and crop quality compromises,” she said.

“Ideally, a minimum of 50 per cent ground cover is required to reduce the impact of wind erosion.”

There are three main categories, from which single or multiple management strategies can be selected:

 * integrating tree crops into farming systems,
 * trial or demonstration of recommended grazing management practices,
 * trial or demonstration of recommended cropping management practices.

Miss Hogg said the department could assist farmers wanting to apply for funding as part of the grazing management practices category.

“We can look at farmers’ farming systems and provide guidance on suitable options available,” she said.

Applications will be assessed on the suitability of proposed works and applicant’s willingness to share their skills and knowledge with the local community. Projects will be supported until the end of 2012.

For more information about the application process contact Natalie Hogg on 9690 2000 or natalie.hogg@agric.wa.gov.au