Livestock owners, land managers and industry experts recently gathered at the Greater Sydney Demonstration Farm in Richmond to gain insights into securing a more productive future.
The group of more than 80 were treated to a pasture sowing demonstration and workshop, the first in a series of initiatives planned under the four-year Healthy Soils, Productive Pastures project, run by Greater Sydney Local Land Services.
The project is funded under the Federal Government's National Landcare Program and aims to increase awareness and encourage adoption of best practice land management methods, to both protect the environment and boost agricultural productivity in the Sydney basin.
Greater Sydney Land Services manager Paul Bennett said the Richmond farm would be crucial in the success of the project, with the area's growers and land managers able to access and view various demonstrations and outcomes.
"This is an exciting project which puts huge emphasis on practical, hands on, interactive events and other initiatives that really showcase the importance of an all-encompassing approach to land management and production," he said.
"It's also about continuing our work with landholders and the broader community to protect and enhance native vegetation and biodiversity in our region."
Mr Bennett said that encouraged land management practices aimed to increase soil carbon, improve native vegetation and biodiversity on-farm while reducing soil erosion.
"This will benefit agricultural production through a combination of practical demonstrations, training and capacity building activities focused on approaches to improving soil health and pasture condition and other on-farm environmental assets," he said.
Plans for a workshop focused on pastures and grazing are now under way, with more in the new year.
"We'll be actively seeking feedback and input from those in the industry as this project evolves to ensure we are achieving the best results possible for our agricultural market," Mr Bennett said.
For details or to register for future workshops call 1300 795 299.