Diverse Vegetation Offers Promising Solutions for Drought Resilience

This National Agriculture Day, tens of thousands of Australian farmers are showcasing their adaptability and commitment to sustainability through programs under the Future Drought Fund (FDF). These initiatives are helping bolster stock, pasture, and native wildlife, demonstrating innovative approaches to managing drought.

One standout example is Cindy and Steven Scott, farmers from the NSW Riverina, who are leveraging the FDF’s Drought Resilient Soils and Landscapes program to implement shelterbelts—vegetation corridors—on their property, Glen Elgin, near Henty.

The Scotts, alongside 15 other Riverina producers, have embraced established land management practices aimed at improving productivity while safeguarding natural resources. This project, spearheaded by Riverina Local Land Services with support from Sustainable Farms ANU and Soils for Life, exemplifes collaboration between farmers and sustainable agriculture initiatives.

Shelterbelts: A Multi-Faceted Drought Solution

The Scotts have expanded their shelterbelt efforts with FDF support. Unlike traditional narrow plantings, their corridors now span 30 metres, incorporating a mix of 70% shrubs, 30% trees, and local grasses to create connectivity across their farm.

“The main goal is to reduce wind speed,” said Steven Scott. “Thicker, deeper windbreaks protect ground cover, reduce erosion, and ultimately improve productivity. We’re monitoring the impact on beef production to measure these benefts.”

Additionally, shelterbelts provide critical shade and cooler temperatures for livestock, particularly during dry periods, while reducing evaporation from water storage areas.

“We’ve planted shelterbelts around our main dams to minimize water loss and maintain reserves during drought,”

Mr. Scott added.

Restoring Ecosystems

The Scotts’ efforts have also revived native bird populations, enhancing local biodiversity. The corridors offer a safe haven for smaller bird species, which contribute to natural pest control by feeding on insects.

“We’ve seen a resurgence of birdlife, which may reduce our reliance on spraying,” said Cindy Scott.

The couple has partnered with Sustainable Farms to explore the broader productivity benefts of their environmental practices.

Leadership in Drought Preparedness

Matt Lowe, Deputy Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries, and Forestry Policy, commended the Scotts’ work as a model of innovation.

“There’s no one-sizefts-all solution for drought preparedness,” Mr. Lowe said.

“Projects like this show how sustainable land management can improve resilience, productivity, and peace of mind for farmers.”

To learn more about the Future Drought Fund, visit Future Drought Fund - DAFF.

For details on the Scotts’ shelterbelt initiatives, visit The Scotts at Glen ElginSoils For Life.