Using the power of nature in food production systems and the connections between soil biology, soil health, and the overall functioning of agro-ecosystems were the hot topic at Dr Maarten Stapper seminars held in Dalwallinu, Mingenew and Greenough Museum last week.
The seminars which were organised by the Liebe Group, Mingenew Irwin Group and the Friends of Geraldton Gardens in partnership with NACC through funding from the Australian Government’s National Landcare Programme attracted a fantastic turnout of landholders and industry people across the Northern Agricultural Region.
“Biological farming can improve soil carbon ten times faster and to high levels than under current Australian farming practices where nitrogen fertilisers and herbicides limit the carbon storage as humus,” Dr Maarten Stapper of the Biologic AgFood said.
“Higher soil carbon increases productivity and helps to slow climate change. Healthy, biological active, living soils can adjust to a changing climate and remain more productive.”
NACC’s Regional Landcare Facilitator Stanley Yokwe said, “Dr Maarten Stapper is a man with some fascinating ideas on how to manage our precious land better.”
His ideas on how to use less chemicals in soils and on crops in order to boast the health of the soil, the crops and the animals that are grazing on the land are what the region needs in an ever-change climate, if we are serious about the sustainability of our farming enterprises.
“It’s been wonderful to have the support evident by the excellent turnout of landholders and industry people for Dr Stapper presentations across the region.”
NACC thanks the Liebe Group, Mingenew Irwin Group and the Friends of Geraldton Gardens for organising the events and for an effective collaboration to invite Dr Stapper into to region.
For more information about Dr Stapper’s presentations, please contact Christine Smith at king.chris.smith@gmail.com or visit Dr Maarten Stapper website at http://drmaartenstapper.com.au/