How can we protect sources of water and moisture on farms in order to remain productive?
A diverse group of farmers and landholders from across the Nambucca Valley are learning some of these valuable skills, thanks to a three-part workshops series. The workshops have been organised by Nambucca Valley Landcare and the Lismore Node of the SQNNSW Hub.
At the first workshop in March 2026, hosted by Steve and Steph at Argents Hill, the group spent some time understanding how water moves through the landscape.
Farm walk and talk
They went on a farm walk to look at tree and ground cover, flow lines, soils and soil erosion.
Farm extension adviser Gavin Tinning said they also examined a developing head cut and discussed management options – fencing, different types of structures and design, plants for revegetation and improving the wetland function of farm ponds and dams.
“We also constructed some small structures that repair erosion issues and retain more moisture in the landscape to grow more plants,” Gavin said.
Sharing knowledge
It’s not just farmers and land managers who are benefitting from these workshops. Gavin said Landcare coordinators from neighbouring catchments also came along.
“We discussed holding training later in the year to provide them with more information and understanding of landscape function that they can share with their farming communities,” he said.
Next steps
Another hands-on day will be held in a few months’ time, with a focus on tools to help design a project and how to monitor landscape change over time.
The group may even use their new skills to tackle some more ambitious sites on another farm!
Thanks to Nambucca Valley Landcare coordinator Ainslie Ashton for her invaluable support in running these events.
