Jim Wedge loves to get his hands dirty.
If there’s one thing he is passionate about, it’s soil conservation.
The local West Binnu cattle farmer is a leader in sustainable agriculture in the Northern Agricultural Region.
Jim’s early initiative and uptake of innovative farming practises has resulted in a complete transformation of his once-degraded property, which is now a productive and sustainable enterprise.
According to Mr Wedge, his passion for environmentally-conscious farming methods has driven him to dedicate many hours to local farming groups and agricultural research trials.
“The light sands of West Binnu are historically unproductive and highly prone to wind erosion,” he said.
“The 2006 and 2007 drought saw massive losses of topsoil and native flora due to unseasonal dry and high wind events.
“Through the implementation of permanent ground cover using perennial grasses and fodder shrubs over the years, the landscape has been stabilised, creating an environment that has lifted livestock production, retained soil moisture, sequestered soil carbon and generally improved soil biology and health.
“Rotational stock practices are also helping in the quest to enable my property to be a truly sustainable farming enterprise.”
NACC supports Mr Wedge’s purpose, and in response has nominated him for a Landcorp Sustainability award, as part of Awards Australia’s Regional Development and Community Awards.
These awards aim to recognise those who work to make regional WA a better place to live work and play.
The purpose of the Landcorp Sustainability award is to acknowledge those who are passionate and committed to sustainability and the reduction of environmental impacts in regional areas.
Winners will be announced at the Awards Gala Presentation Dinner on Friday 6th November 2015.
NACC wishes best of luck to Jim.
