On 28th February 2018, seventeen participants began a soil workshop series with Derek Smith at the Kentucky Hall. The program aims to help participants formulate a long-term plan for soil management so in 5, 10 and 20 years, the farm is in better shape and more resilient to challenges.

Derek guides and mentors participants through this 4-day soil management program, where the first two days focus on how and why soils respond in certain ways to inputs, stock management and farming practises. Participants also explore options to improve outcomes in the short, medium and long term.

SNELandcare Coordinator, Karen Zirkler, said, “On 16th May the program will engage animal nutritionist, Peter Norwood from Full Circle Nutrition in Victoria to be the guest speaker at the SNELandcare quarterly Member Muster.”

“Peter will show how balanced, healthy soils equate to higher quality pastures and crops with increased production,” said Karen.

This event will be open to all members, friends and the general public and will be held at the Kentucky Hall.

On 31st May 2018, program participants will come together in a practical group session to study their own soil test results analysed using the world-renowned Albrecht analysis system.

This session will show exactly how recommendations are calculated, which management strategies will produce the desired result, how to mix and spread the recommended amendments, and time frames for re-testing.

“While it’s probably too late to join the 17 participants for the full program, it’s certainly not too late to register for the Member Muster with guest speaker Peter Norwood,” said Karen.

“And if you are keen to do Derek’s next program, contact us at the office and put your name down on the waiting list,” she said.

Image – Participants take in the theory on Day 1 of the workshop series.