Clint Della Bosca’s farm in South Moorine Rock, WA is in a low rainfall area that experiences dry, windy conditions which result in wind erosion and topsoil loss.
Wheatbelt NRM provided Clint with funding to implement a trial on maintaining maximum soil cover, decreasing topsoil loss and increasing production. They also supported him with expert technical advice.
“Being directly involved in the project allowed for better understanding of its findings,” said Clint Della Bosca. The trial looked at best cropping practices for maintaining summer groundcovers to help reduce topsoil loss, and using the cover crops to maximise biomass.
The trial also raised awareness of the production risks associated with topsoil loss in the region with local farmers. Treatments seeded into a brown manured crop from the previous season produced highest yields and gross margins. “Brown manuring will work but timing is crucial. The earlier the better is my experience,” said Clint.
Wheatbelt NRM supported Clint Della Bosca through its ‘Soil Conservation Incentive’ program with funding from the Australian Government.
