eDNA technology is providing a breakthrough in detecting the elusive Chuditch, a vulnerable marsupial that is hard to trace due to its nocturnal and solitary habits. Wheatbelt NRM is trialling this innovative tool in the Eucalypt Woodlands of the WA Wheatbelt, helping to pinpoint critical habitats for conservation. This method offers a more efficient way to detect and protect species like the Chuditch, which face threats from introduced predators, habitat loss, and human activity. Join us for free community events in March and April to learn more about how eDNA is shaping the future of wildlife conservation.

With new projects on the horizon, we’re growing our team to continue supporting our land, communities, and future generations. Check out our Careers page for open positions!

Following on from our native grass feature in the January eNews edition, this month we will be showcasing Wallaby Grass as a valuable perennial species in revegetation and pasture systems. The grass is widespread and abundant in the Southwest of WA and can thrive in low rainfall and low fertility conditions.

Have you read a carbon credits article or post on socials recently but weren’t sure what the terminology meant? We’re breaking down some keys words used in the nature industry (credit to Dr Manda Page CEO South West NRM).

Nature Positive = Stop nature loss + Add more nature than we have now.

The concept started grabbing international headlines in 2021 when leaders at the 47^th G7 Conference collectively called for the world to become net zero and nature positive. The next year commitment became more globalised when 188 countries (including Australia) collectively agreed to reverse nature loss by 2050.

Australian native grasses can be beautiful and productive. As they are well adjusted to Australian soils and climate they make a hardy addition to both revegetation projects and forage systems.

Wheatbelt NRM are excited to announce an upcoming opportunity for mixed farmers. “Forage for Nature” is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program. See our website for details. Expressions of interest will be open in January 2025 so stay tuned for the cue to apply.

New saltbush carbon metrics could be a gamechanger for saline land restoration and carbon accounting in Australia.

The Soil CRC has shared preliminary insights from our partnership on a project to identify soil microbial indicators of soil health in the Wheatbelt. Early analysis of 2022 soil samples show a promising link between nematode populations and land management. Final results will be presented at our Talkin’ Soil Health symposium in York on 13th March 2025, where we hope to determine if farmers can use nematodes as a measure of soil health.

The pilot ‘Wheatbelt land-use paradigms – navigating new industries in the low carbon and natural capital era’ is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Climate-Smart Agriculture program under the Natural Heritage Trust.

What qualities make a person a Soil Health Champion?  This edition revisits SHC of the past, Rob Hetherington (2022) and Kane Page (2020).

Wheatbelt NRM recently attended a webinar on the potential arrival of HPAI H5N1 in Australia. With Oceania being the last unaffected region, experts warn that this virus could reach us as soon as this spring, posing severe risks to wildlife and poultry.