What does "building soil carbon" really mean on Mallee farms and why should you care?

In this episode, we cut through the confusion and get straight to the facts. Nick Paltridge sits down with Amanda Schapel from PIRSA to unpack what soil carbon actually is, how it interacts with soil function, and what practical steps farmers can take to improve carbon levels on broad acre cropping land.

We cover:

• The types of carbon in your soil (and which ones matter)

• How organic matter breaks down—and how to slow the loss

• Whether cover crops and stubble retention are worth it

• What carbon means for water-holding capacity, fertility & resilience

• Key limitations for increasing soil carbon in low rainfall zones

If you’ve ever wondered whether carbon farming is realistic in your paddock—or just want to know how to make your soil more productive and resilient—this episode is for you.

Resources mentioned:
📘 Explore the 101 Soils Questions Book – www.soilsconnect.com.au
📍 Join the Soils Connect Facebook Group for weekly updates https://www.facebook.com/groups/soilsconnect

This episode is part of the Farm Talk – 101 Soils Questions podcast series and is supported by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT).