Barossa Sustainable Soil
Focus Paddocks

The aim of this project is to provide further information on the factors affecting soil health on dairy properties in the region. This is being achieved by the development and implementation of six focus paddocks on properties of the Barossa and Mid North Dairy Discussion Group.

This project is funded by DEWNR State NRM Community Grant Scheme in partnership with Dairy SA.

Background:

The project is partnering with Dairy SA who has been running a soil testing program with the Dairy Discussion Group since 2011.

The Discussion group have identified the following issues to focus on.

  • Soil microorganisms
  • The use of dairy effluent
  • Cost effective pasture improvement
  • Perennial vs annual species selection

Management and monitoring plans have been developed to investigate the health of the soil in each of the focus paddocks.

Pasture walks and demonstration days will be run in conjunction with these paddocks to provide learning and networking opportunities for all producers in the region.