Compost in the focus for local farmers

THE Limestone Coast Landscape Board is inviting farmers and land managers across the Limestone Coast to take part in a practical, hands-on workshop designed to build confidence and skills in making high-quality compost on farm.

Following several dry seasons that have placed pressure on soil structure and productivity, many producers are seeking low-cost, effective tools to restore soil health. Composting offers a reliable way to improve nutrient retention, boost soil biology and strengthen soil resilience.

Sustainable Landscapes Officer (Soils) Nick Bassett said sandy soils in the region made building structure essential.

“In the sandy soils we have in the Limestone Coast, improving soil structure is priority number one,” he said.

“When compost is added to the soil it helps particles hold together and provides something for nutrients to attach to. This gives compost far more value than just its analysed nutrient content – it creates the conditions soil biology needs to thrive.”

“By learning how ingredients, moisture, temperature and biology interact, farmers gain the confidence to assess any compost they purchase, ensuring they’re investing in mature, well-made product that genuinely supports soil health.”

“By understanding ingredients, moisture, temperature and biology, farmers gain the confidence to assess compost quality and invest in mature, well-made compost that supports soil health.”

“Once soils are functioning better, compost can also help fertilisers work more efficiently, and with the price pressure our primary producers are facing it is more important than ever.”

The workshop will introduce participants to three practical composting methods – aerobic, vermicompost and fermentation. Guidance on materials, machinery, and how to assess compost quality will be covered. A hands-on compost-making session will give farmers the chance to apply what they’ve learned and understand how to scale compost systems to suit their own properties.

Where manure and other organic materials are available locally, on-farm composting can offer producers an opportunity to reduce input costs.

The Limestone Coast Landscape Board encourages farmers, land managers and anyone working with soil to register to attend. Bring along compost samples that you make or use for investigation.

Visit lc.landscape.sa.gov.au for more information.