As long-range weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology point to a 50 percent change of an El Nino forming later this year, and many producers already experiencing a return to drier conditions this year, attention is turning to what farmers can do to build drought resilience.

An online program from June 6-8 will bring together farmers, researchers, government, industry and the community to improve understanding of the innovative tools and practices now available to help regions prepare for future drought.

Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and Food Policy and Research, Rosemary Deininger, says that the online forum will also showcase the work of the Future Drought Fund’s eight Drought Resilience Adoption and Innovation Hubs located around the country.

“The Science to Practice Forum is an opportunity to collaborate and network with likeminded people committed to growing a sustainable agricultural sector,” Ms Deininger said.

“It also demonstrates how integral the implementation of the Future Drought Fund, and its $100 million dollar a year investment, is performing right across the country.

“Hearing the stories of how Australian farmers and communities are using innovative tools and practices to build drought resilience can influence the decision making of both farmers and policy makers.”

The forum will be hosted by Pip Courtney, award-winning journalist and host of ABC’s Landline, and features keynote speakers, presentations, panel talks, video content and First Nations perspectives from right across the country, with each day focussed on a particular theme:

• Tuesday 6 June: Research and development
• Wednesday 7 June: Farmers and Agricultural Advisors
• Thursday 8 June: Community and policy

View the 2023 Science to Practice Forum’s full program and register for the free event here, or visit the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry website for more information.

Source: Department of Agriculture