The announcement of the development of a new memorandum of understanding between the National Farmers Federation, the peak national body representing farmers, and NRM Regions Australia, who represent 56 natural resource management organisations across Australia, will facilitate a renewed focus on investment in sustainable agriculture activities.

Healthy environments are essential for farm productivity and North Coast Local Land Services, funded by the National Landcare Program and the state government’s Catchment Action NSW provides that focus at the local level.

“The strength of the funding program is demonstrated by the work we do with the community to identify local priorities for investment,” Royce Bennett, Manager Land Services, said.

“We help farmers grow their knowledge through advice, information, training and networking.

“Better informed decisions help farmers balance production, profit and sustainability and we help farmers discover new ways to improve their business while protecting the environment.”

Through local-level partnerships such as the one between North Coast Local Land Services and North Coast Regional Landcare Network, funding and support is also made available to help support local organisations, such as local landcare groups, to undertake a range of projects that help protect their local environment and deliver more sustainable agriculture.

“There is no doubt that the National Landcare Programme has helped land managers to deliver more sustainable agriculture while protecting Australia's natural environment,” Royce said. 

“The delivery of sustainable and effective land management underpins our valuable North Coast agricultural industry and is focused on demonstrating the outcomes we achieve to guide decisions about future investment in sustainable agriculture.”