Climate pressures

CARDINIA Shire farmers discussed the pressures of climate change and urbanisation at a recent farming forum held in Kooweerup.
Delivered by the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), as part of its AgFutures project, the forum aimed to better understand the changes affecting agriculture in Cardinia and the City of Casey.
DPI AgFutures project officer Karen Thomas said the forum increased community awareness about the challenges Cardinia and Casey farmers are facing now and into the future. “The region’s beef and horticulture farmers and local service providers want to further explore the possible impacts of land-use pressures with residential lifestyle sometimes conflicting with farming operations,” Ms Thomas said.
“The aging farmer population may also significantly change the shape of agriculture in the region.
“Although facing some significant challenges, the region’s farmers will now be empowered to make decisions to shape the future of the region and their businesses. Being informed is the first step.”
Guest speakers included DPI social researcher Roger Wilkinson, who discussed the future impacts of changes in and-use and an ageing farmer population will have on the region; Greg Hunt from the Westernport Greenhouse Alliance, who spoke about work being done by local organisations to combat climate change; DPI senior farm business economist Tony Berrisford who provided a snapshot of current farm economic performance data and likely future trends; and Arris consultant Daryl Stevens who promoted the opportunities recycled water may offer farmers in adapting to climate change.
The DPI delivered the Kooweerup forum in partnership with the City of Casey, Shire of Cardinia, Westernport Greenhouse Alliance and Cardinia Environment Coalition.
A follow-up forum is being considered for September.
For more information on the DPI AgFutures program contact Karen Thomas on 0488 372 411.