Sustainable agriculture

Nutrient run-off from agricultural land represents the largest source of nutrients entering estuaries in south-west catchments. Excess nutrients entering waterways from fertiliser and effluent reduces water quality, and this can lead to algal blooms, low oxygen and fish deaths. Healthy Estuaries WA works with catchment and industry groups and farmers to reduce the nutrient run-off from farms.

Download Nutrient Best Management Practice Guidelines

Download Code of Practice for dairy farm effluent management WA (Western dairy)

Soil testing opportunity - Expression of Interest period now open!

Grazing farmers across the South West of Western Australia are being encouraged to take part in a whole farm soil testing program designed to support farmers make better fertiliser decisions.

The program involves soil testing, pasture tissue testing, nutrient mapping, farmer workshops and individual agronomic advice.

Farmers who were involved in this program in 2016/17 are eligible for further assistance including tissue testing, farmer workshop and individual agronomic advice.

Expression of Interest period closes 26 August 2017. Places are limited so register now to avoid missing out.

More information | Register

Fertiliser management

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development estimates that farmers in Western Australia apply around $400 million per year of phosphorus in excess of the amounts required for desired productivity. Getting fertiliser management right on farms will benefit both farmer’s productivity and water quality in our estuaries.

The Sustainable Agriculture strategy works with farmers to optimise fertiliser use by providing incentives for soil testing, nutrient mapping and agronomic advice for over 400 properties. These programs support farmers to make informed fertiliser decisions so fertilisers and profits stay on the farm. Find out more about the fertiliser management program.

Why soil test your farm?

Dairy effluent management

Good effluent management on dairy farms is important on and off the farm. Benefits include money saved on fertiliser, improved soil condition and moisture retention due to organic matter, reduced nutrient losses from farms and productivity gains.

Healthy Estuaries WA works with farmers, industry and catchment groups to promote best practice in dairy effluent management. It reviews dairy effluent systems and develop best practice management plans.

These programs will reduce the amount of nutrients entering waterways, leading to improved estuarine health and long-term sustainability of the dairy industry in Western Australia.