In this episode of The Big Shift for Small Farms podcast, host Edgars Greste explores the complex topic of weeds and ecological management. Joined by agroecologist Kim Deans, they challenge traditional chemical-based weed control and advocate for a more holistic approach that integrates weed management with overall soil health and farm sustainability.

Listeners will hear from farmers like Alexia Martinez and Kym Green, who share their experiences balancing weed control with sustainable practices such as composting, cover crops, and natural remedies. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding weeds’ ecological roles, monitoring soil health, and embracing a mindset that sees weeds as part of the natural ecosystem—not merely as pests to be eliminated.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

• Kim Deans

• Alexia Martinez

• Kym Green

For more information: 

• Reinventing Agriculture (with Kim Deans) - https://www.reinventingagriculture.com.au/kim-deans 

• Biodynamic Agriculture Australia Ltd - https://biodynamics.net.au/ 

• Kym Green - https://www.facebook.com/Kymgreenlenswood/ 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Greater Sydney Local Land Services or the Australian Government.

In this episode of the Big Shift for Small Farms Podcast, host Edgars Greste chats with dairy farmer Andy Hanna, whose farm is located in the heart of greater Sydney, amidst the growing impact of suburban sprawl. With farming pressures like unpredictable climate conditions and tight financial margins, Andy’s story is a powerful example of adapting and thriving against the odds.

Edgars recently had the chance to visit Andy’s farm and was impressed by the work and evolution of his farming practices. Andy’s approach to low-input, ecological farming focusing on rotational grazing, boosting pasture biodiversity, and working with natural nutrient cycles, offers valuable, practical examples of how to make a big shift toward sustainability. This conversation is full of insights on building resilience into farming systems while supporting the environment and the community.

Thank you to our guest, Andy Hanna, featured in this episode.

For more information: 

• AG360 Rotational Grazing Planner - https://ag360.com.au/#!/out 

• Multispecies pastures podcast episode - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-big-shift/episodes/Multispecies-Pastures-e2i8dgt

• Soil Amendments podcast episode (featuring Dairy farmer Gavin Chittick) - https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/the-big-shift/episodes/Understanding-Soil-Amendments-to-Boost-Soil-Fertility-e2go7l2 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services. Supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Greater Sydney Local Land Services or the Australian Government.

In this episode of the Big Shift for Small Farms podcast, we explore the idea of natural capital—the economic and environmental value of nature. Joined by natural capital advisor Madeleine Florin and farmers Ned Long and Rhiannon Phillips, the conversation highlights regenerative land management practices, the advantages of enhancing natural capital, and new market opportunities. The episode includes practical examples and discusses the impacts on farming, communities, and personal well-being, underscoring the link between environmental stewardship and economic resilience.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Natural Capital service finder - Local Land Services (nsw.gov.au)

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Welcome to an insightful podcast episode uncovering the intricate world of Southeast New South Wales' diverse soils. Come on a journey with Di and Steven in their transition from dairy to beef production by focusing on soil health and the impact of soil quality on farming practices. We’ll hear from Roy Lawrie, a seasoned soil expert, and Andrew Britton, former Small Farms Coordinator for the South Coast region, as they demystify the complexities of soil management. We’ll learn about crucial topics such as the significance of topsoil and subsoil tests, the variability in soil profiles across landscapes, the persistent challenges of weed management, and the presence of acid sulfate soils.  This episode equips you with invaluable tips on soil and weed management, aimed at elevating farmers' ability to enhance land health and embrace regenerative farming practices. 

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Ever wondered about regenerative agriculture and the impacts it can have on farmers? Join us as we learn about real life experiences shared by seasoned farmers at the recent Soil Stewardship Summit near Yass, NSW. Over two enlightening days, participants explored the concept of regenerative agriculture, discussing key topics such as tapping into indigenous wisdom, enhancing drought resilience, transitioning from high production to natural methods, and prioritizing soil health for improved yields and healthier societies. The stories embody values of patience, gratitude, and deep respect for nature, offering valuable inspiration for those considering or embarking on the journey towards sustainable farming practices. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that encapsulates the transformative power of regenerative agriculture and a return to natural processes.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by growloveproject.com and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Biology drives nearly all processes in our soil. From structure and water infiltration, to nutrient cycling and disease suppression. Until  recently the biological function of soil has largely been overlooked in favour of soil physics and chemistry. So to find out more about the beauty of bugs we spoke with soil microbiologist, Kelvin Montagu

Thank you to our guest featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

Curious about the buzz surrounding multi-species pastures and its game-changing role in regenerative agriculture? Join us to hear expert insights from Sarah Fea, an experienced agroecologist, who explores the diversity of advantages that multi-species brings to the table. We look into the significance of improving soil health, biodiversity, efficiency of resources, pest control, and creation of resilient landscapes. Gain valuable insights from on-field farmers as they share their journeys experimenting with multi-species pastures, revealing the substantial benefits they've reaped through the transition to diverse pastures.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

This episode explores the importance of soil and soil management for agriculture and the environment, focusing on the soils of the Sydney region. Experts from the New South Wales Soil Knowledge Network share their expertise on topics such as geology, soil formation, soil types, erosion, and assessing soil health. The conversation highlights the role of organic matter, irrigation, and soil samples in managing different soil types. Listeners will gain a better understanding of the value of soil and practical tips for improving soil health. Let's make the world greener and healthier, one soil particle at a time!

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

In this episode, get ready to dig into the quirky world of dung beetles and discover how these little champions are like the superheroes of soil health on farms! Join us and our guests as we chat about the fantastic benefits dung beetles bring to Australian farmers – from reducing water runoff to boosting pasture growth and improving soil in grazing systems, to keeping pests in check, and even mastering the art of carbon sequestration. These remarkable critters prove that sometimes, in the smallest packages, you find the mightiest heroes for our planet's well-being.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services

In this episode, we explore soil amendments and their role in enhancing soil fertility.  Accompanied by farmers from Kangaroo Valley, we delve into their strategic use of compost and diverse amendments to enhance soil health.  Former Senior Agricultural Advisor Ed Hogan presents a comprehensive soil biology demonstration, offering invaluable insights for the farming community - recognising the significance of tailoring agricultural approaches to meet the distinctive needs of each soil and steering clear of a generic 'one-size-fits-all' methodology. Tune in to discover which amendments could potentially elevate the soil fertility on your farm.

Thank you to our guests featured in this episode:

For more information: 

Produced by Grow Love Project and hosted by NSW Local Land Services