The Soils Coordinators are integrated into the Hub’s Knowledge Broker network. They work to deliver soil-related events and webinars through Smart Farms delivery groups and farming systems groups in the hub network.

Luke Beange and Blake Palmer share the Regional Soils Coordinator position.

Having grown up on farms in northwest New South Wales, Blake comes from a soil research background within NSW DPI and continues to combine soil science with his work. Luke has some 30 years experience in ag extension with DPI and is an expert in soil salinity.

The Regional Soils Coordinators dovetail neatly with the Southern NSW hub’s Knowledge Broker Network to help support drought resilience as a function of soil health.

Currently, they are working on a national Soils Capacity Gap Analysis study. This aims to identify and address gaps in soil management knowledge and capability. The hub network has played a valuable role in supporting the survey.

Collaborating partner: NSW DPI

Funder: Building Landcare Community Capacity (BLCC) which is an element of the Smart Farms Program under Phase 2 of the National Landcare Program.