Soils, New Horizons
The Soils – New Horizons program is a Whole Farm Nutrient Mapping initiative that supports farmers in high-rainfall zones to make evidence-based fertiliser decisions to improve nutrient efficiency and farm productivity. The program involves collecting soil samples from each paddock, testing them for key nutrients and soil properties, and using the data to create color-coded nutrient maps to guide fertiliser application.
Key aspects of the Soils – New Horizons program:
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Whole Farm Nutrient Mapping: Nutrient maps of a farm's paddocks inform nutrient management strategies.
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Soil Testing: Farmers participate in soil sampling and testing to analyze key nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur, as well as the Phosphorus Buffering Index (PBI) and pH.
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Informed Fertiliser Decisions: The program uses the soil data and maps to help farmers match fertilizer use with specific pasture growth goals, leading to improved nutrient efficiency.
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Benefits for Farmers: Improved Nutrient Efficiency by optimizing fertilizer use, reducing waste and cost.
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Cost Savings: Saves money by preventing over-fertilization and matching inputs to needs.
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Enhanced Productivity: Supports profitable and sustainable pasture production.
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Environmental Benefits by reducing nutrient loss to waterways.
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Target Audience: The program is specifically for farmers in high-rainfall areas (greater than 550 mm annual rainfall).
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Support and Resources: Offers subsidised soil testing, expert advice, practical workshops, and personalized fertilizer plans to participants.