Busy year ahead for AIR EP research

Strip and Disc Forums, Containment Feeding ‘sticky beak days’ and the popular WoTL Regenerate Rural Women are just some of the quality events forming part of a massive year ahead for AIR EP and partner organisations.

AIR EP Executive Officer Naomi Scholz says 2024 is set to be the biggest for this farmer-driven organisation, with a total list of 27 projects, valued at $5M, being delivered on the Eyre Peninsula.

“It is an exciting time to be involved with the agriculture industry, particularly here on the EP,” Ms Scholz said.

“As an organisation, our capability to assist farmers and the industry has increased, and we’re leading the race when it comes to innovative ag research and development.”

Ranging in value from $750 to $1.8 million, the AIR EP projects range across brome grass management, crop sequencing for profitable farming systems , legume extension, sandy soil management, frost damage minimisation, crown rot management, early sowing, risk management and much more.

February and March are nearly full of events aimed at farmers and advisors, with WoTL’s Regenerate Rural Women kicking off in Cummins on 12 February. Run by experienced facilitators Tanya Lehmann and Lucy Pedler, the program focusses on reconnecting women with their strengths, experiences, and core values to support them while working in business, family and community.

“Women play a huge role and contribute largely and often in immeasurable ways to the agriculture industry. Taking the unique opportunity and time to ‘regenerate’ and learn some simple, practical tips and tools helps not only the family unit, but businesses and communities to thrive in our region,” Ms Scholz said.

Strip and Disc forums, held at Minnipa and Rudall, will explore the pros and cons of adopting a strip and disc farming system, aiming to inform a research, development and extension plan for strip systems of the EP, complete with experienced guest speakers.

“With a total value of projects worth $5 million, we’d encourage farmers and industry to stay abreast of the latest research and results. And if you haven’t been in touch with AIR EP and our latest work, put it on your 2024 to-do list,” Ms Scholz said.

For more information about AIR EP or to become a member, visit the website at AIR EP.