Graduate Projects

Organic farming and the importance of recycling: 2005

Project:
Encourage the recycling of waste materials on farm.

Project Leader:
Wendy Wallace, Dairy Farmer, Victoria

Aim:
Convert calf shed and feed pad waste into fertiliser/soil conditioner.

Background:
Sustainability is constantly talked about and the need is increasing with global warming, higher input costs and competitive international markets, therefore this project aimed to explore one practical strategy which could progress sustainability.

Approach:

• Researched what has been done to date including methods of composting, visiting a vermicast maker and consulting with environment and agriculture experts.
• Created a ‘no turn’ compost and used vermicaste in the composting process.
• Monitored compost heaps for biological activity, smell, rate of decomposition, testing in a laboratory.
• Assess results for possible improvements.
• Application of compost – half paddock test strips, rotational application, observing grazing patterns, pasture performance, soil testing.

Challenges:

• Confidence to network with those with the expertise needed.
• Starting from ‘scratch’ – how do you do it.
• Identifying expertise to resource the project.

Outcomes:
Applied research to a practical trial of recycling.