Carbon farming workshop in Katherine
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Carbon Farming Outreach Program workshop held in Katherine last month, brought together growers, land managers, NT Government staff and regional stakeholders from across the Northern Territory.
Participants joined both in person and online, with representation from the Top End through to Central Australia.
The workshop was originally planned as a face-to-face event but was delivered in a hybrid format due to recent flooding. Despite this, it was encouraging to see strong participation from across the region.
The session covered the basics of carbon farming, including what carbon is, why it matters and how it links to everyday farming practices. It also highlighted potential benefits such as improving soil health, increasing farm productivity, and creating opportunities for additional income through carbon markets.
Examples of practical activities were shared, including soil conservation, changes in grazing practices, protecting native vegetation, wetland restoration, and cultural burning.
A highlight of the day was hearing from local speakers who shared their own farming experiences. These discussions focused on practical approaches, such as improving soil health, trying new ideas, and adapting practices to suit individual farms and conditions.
Participants were particularly interested in how carbon farming can fit into existing operations in a simple and workable way.
Overall, the workshop provided a valuable opportunity to learn, share ideas, and build understanding of carbon farming in the Northern Territory context.
We acknowledge the contributions of carbon trainer and DAF extension and research scientist Dakshina Yadav, and local carbon champions Kim Mackay (Desert Fruit Company) and Jeremy and Amy Trembath (Lonesome Duck Estate), who shared their knowledge and on-ground experiences.
For access to the workshop recording, please email Madonna Wuttke at madonna.wuttke@nt.gov.au or call 8973 9760.
