The services of this soil-testing rig are available to growers in southern and Central Queensland. Photo: DAF

GRAIN growers in Central and southern Queensland are being offered free soil-testing to help them better understand and manage their soils.

Announced last week by the Queensland Government’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), the free testing is being funded by DAF and the Federal Government as part of the National Soils Strategy.

Also on offer to growers is a workshop series which, along with testing, will help growers combat declining soil health which is holding back the sustainability, productivity and profitability of some Australian farms.

“Up to three tests per grower are being offered to help growers assess the current status of their soils,” DAF principal extension officer Jayne Gentry said.

The three tests are to be done at the same time on the same farm, and DAF plans to have them all completed by the end of June.

“DAF will work with growers to focus on their soil, help them interpret test results, better understand the physical, chemical and biological components of soil, and develop strategies for improving soil management on their farm.

Ms Gentry said declining soil organic matter, soil health and loss of natural fertility were holding back the sustainability of Australian farms.

“We’re committed to increasing productivity and profitability of farms to help reach the Ag2030 goal of growing agriculture to $100 billion by 2030.

“We’re encouraging grain growers in Central and southern Queensland to take part in this program and let us help them better understand their soil and get more out of it.”

Growers seeking further information are invited to contact the DAF Call Centre 132523.

Source: Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries