From 20–23 October, the Burnett Mary Regional Group (BMRG) hosted an intensive Soil Conservation Workshop aimed at enhancing regional capacity in soil management, erosion control, and sustainable land use.
Facilitated by BMRG resident soild scientist Rachel Cavallo, the workshop brought together presenters John Day (DPI), Geoff Titmarsh (ex-DPI), Simon Hunt (DPI), Mark Sugars (DNRMMRRD), Sunny Jacobs (DNRMMRRD), and Rachela Mura (DNRMMRRD).
Participants engaged in a combination of theoretical sessions and practical field activities covering topics such as soil classification, erosion processes, catchment runoff estimation, and surveying techniques. Presentations also explored applications of the Universal Soil Loss Equation (USLE), the RAMWADE modelling tool, and design approaches for diversion and contour banks.
The program incorporated emerging technologies, including drones and monitoring tools, to demonstrate their role in improving soil and water conservation outcomes. Discussion also included the Soil Conservation Act 1986 and its practical relevance to contemporary land management.
Through collaboration between experts from DPI and DNRMMRRD, the workshop strengthened local technical expertise and promoted evidence-based approaches to soil conservation across the Burnett Mary region.
The Landscape Repair Program is funded by the Australian government's Reef Trust.
