Mosaic Map: NRM funded projects
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Comprehensive plans help Mallee farmers
Many environmental projects zero in on a particular issue-soils, water, plants and animals, cultural heritage or rivers and wetlands.
But in a new approach to farming in the Mallee, the Environmental Management and Action Planning project (EMAPp) is managing these simultaneously.
The project aims to help farmers achieve a more sustainable farm business, while protecting unique Mallee ecosystems, reducing salinity and improving natural resources for producers and communities.
"Previously, Mallee farmers were advised by specialists looking at individual aspects of land management," said Faith Deans, Land Resources Coordinator with the Mallee Catchment Management Authority.
"This project is a major initiative towards including everything in a single environmental management plan for each farm."
Funding
The Australian and State Governments have provided $480,000 for the project over four years.
Activities
"Farmers identify environmental assets such as soil health and native plants and animals on their farms as well as threats to them, then develop a plan of what needs to be done," said Faith.
"We provide farmers with an aerial map of their property showing boundaries and contours and hold workshops where they receive up to date information."
Farmers use the map to mark places where water supply may be difficult, or that may be prone to salinity or impacts from pests, as well as places where native species could be planted or where fencing is needed to protect natives, plus any other areas important for their farm planning.
An extension officer then visits farmers to help plot on the map what needs to be done, and the map is digitised. In the end, farmers have an accurate picture outlining how their farm can be made more sustainable.
Achievements
"About 120 farmers attended workshops in March 2007 and the feedback has been fantastic," said Faith. "Some have said it has changed their thinking, or the way they look at their farm"
The workshops are TAFE accredited with components counted towards a certificate IV in rural business or conservation and land management.
"Each farmer now has a plan for environmental work to be done on their properties," said Faith. "They are first in line for financial incentives for things such as building a stock containment area, fencing off saline areas or planting lucerne, a crop that uses water efficiently."
More information
- Faith Deans, Land Resources Coordinator, Mallee Catchment Management Authority: (03) 5051 4370 or Faith.Deans@dpi.vic.gov.au
- Mallee Catchment Management Authority
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