LEARN how to manage your soil, understand its fertility and how to grow more grass as part of a new soil testing program.
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South East Local Land Services experts are offering the program to landholders this spring who reside in the Wingecarribee, Yass Valley, Boorowa, Upper Lachlan and Goulburn-Mulwaree areas.
The two-day face-to-face workshop will cover the Five Easy Steps course devised to help producers interpret and develop a fertiliser program tailored to each property.
Participants will also receive subsidised soil testing, for 0-10cm tests only.
Previous participant David Weir said the course was invaluable.
“As a result, I intend to expand the number soil tests taken across our three properties to allow a more targeted fertiliser program that is cost effective,” he said.
Mixed farming systems officer Fiona Leech said mid to late spring was an ideal time for soil testing, as it allowed time for decision making around fertiliser use for the following summer/autumn application.\
“Sampling at this time of year provides a guide as to what nutrient levels remain after the peak spring growth has occurred,” Ms Leech said.
“Completing a soil test and getting some numbers on a page is just the first step – the next part is working out what the numbers mean for your property and production system, and if investing in fertiliser will make you more money.”
An initial two hour session to explain the correct soil sampling protocol, tips on choosing which paddocks or areas to sample and loaning of soil coring equipment will be held in the week commencing November 7, with locations and venues to be advised.
Producers taking advantage of this initiative will participate in a practical, face-to-face two-day workshop in February/March 2017 to discuss the results and develop a fertiliser program.
Register your interest by October 28 by emailing fiona.leech@lls.nsw.gov.au or call 0427 201 805, or matthew.lieschke@lls.nsw.gov.au, or call 0428 271 127.