In this episode of MSF Farm Talk, host Nick Paltridge speaks with John Leys, a soil management expert, about tools for monitoring paddocks and current ground cover conditions across the tri-state Mallee. 

John shares insights from his career, including his work with Dust Watch, and discusses trends in dust storms, ground cover management strategies, and the challenges farmers might face heading into summer.

They explore various tools available for ground cover monitoring, such as VegMachine, RAPP Map, and PastureKey, and the importance of effective grazing and stock management to minimise erosion risks. 

00:00 Introduction to Today's Episode

00:45 John Leys' Journey in Land Management

02:13 Understanding Dust Trends and Ground Cover

03:16 Current State of Ground Cover

08:06 Tools for Monitoring Ground Cover

09:59 Strategies to Minimise Erosion Risks 

12:50 Conclusion and Resources

Visit the Dust Watch website here

This podcast was supported by the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator, which is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program.