DPIRD's involvement in regenerative agriculture and regenerative pastoralism
Regenerative landscape management is defined as: "The application of techniques which seek to restore landscape function and deliver outcomes that include sustainable production, an improved natural resource base, healthy nutrient cycling, increased biodiversity and resilience to change."
We invest in many areas to support the sustainability and profitability of the agriculture sector in WA:
- carbon farming
- adaptation to climate change
- reducing subsoil constraints
- groundcover and soil stability for wind and water erosion control
- perennial pastures and grazing management
- groundwater and surface water management
- land-use planning, land capability and land suitability analyses
- legislative responsibilities (principally the Soil and Land Conservation Act 1945).
Working with industry for regenerative systems
We are documenting the regenerative practices of at least 5 landholders, to capture data on soil health, crop production, quality and profitability.
We supported the formation of a Regenerative Agriculture Round Table to bring soil health and regenerative farming practice experts together to develop long-term research and extension.
We support RegenWA by supplying evidence-based information and staff to assist with extension.
The Soils Ministerial Advisory Committee will re-establish the Soil and Land Conservation Council and help drive regenerative land practices across Western Australia.
We collaborate with Meat and Livestock Australia and Rangelands NRM to investigate regenerative options for pastoral areas.
The role of good science and good practice
Many of the successes claimed by regenerative farming advocates are anecdotal, with limited valid scientific reporting from Western Australian climate, soils and landscapes, to demonstrate the long-term economic or sustainable benefit.
To drive practice change by agricultural producers, solid credible evidence is required on the impact and repeatability of regenerative agriculture practices on the physical, chemical and biological health of the soils and the associated long-term economic, environmental and social benefits.
Regenerative farming practices aim to improve landscape function, increase biodiversity and improve nutrient recycling. The RegenWA program and its members have an important role to play in documenting the scientific evidence for these practices.
Other information
There are many websites, not-for-profit and non-government organisations that provide information and services that are relevant to regenerative agriculture and regenerative pastoralism. We suggest you read widely and critically assess the available material. Contact the people below if you have questions.