The long-term resilience and growth of agricultural businesses in a changing climate relies on the adoption of sustainable farm practices.
The Australian Government’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Program has recently provided funding to the North East CMA to help farmers adapt or transform their farming systems in response to
the ongoing challenges of climate change.
Farmers have long faced the twin pressures of climate variability and fluctuating commodity prices – both largely beyond their control.
This funding will strengthen the capacity of farmers to make informed decisions that help them navigate the everyday risks they face.
North East CMA chief executive officer, Katie Warner said 21 applications worth almost $700,000 were received, showing the strong demand for on-farm demonstrations, field days and training in sustainable agriculture.
“With the compounding impacts of bushfires, floods and dry conditions on local farm businesses over the past six years, on top of increasing consumer demand for products with lower environmental impacts, interest in practices that improve farm resilience and increase access to market premiums is high.”
$330,000 has been allocated to support 12 projects across the region, each addressing key challenges for farming communities — such as improving soil health, enhancing on-farm biodiversity, shade and shelter, and
building resilience of pasture and animal management systems.
With less margin for error in farm management due to climate pressures and volatile markets, these grants will help increase the adoption of sustainable and innovative farming practices and
highlight some of the most promising strategies for future success.
The following project was successful and will be
implemented over the next 2.5 years:
– Shelterbelts: benefits for biodiversity and livestock, Benambra Dinner Plain Omeo Landcare Group ($19,905).
