New England farmers and communities will receive $138,096 in Australian Government funding to improve the natural resource management and agricultural landscapes.

Member for New England Barnaby Joyce, said the funding includes $103,796 to GLENRAC for its project Benchmarking natural capital for resilient farms, Glen Innes NSW.

A further $34,300 has been awarded to Gowen Investments for its project Utilisation of a Novel Eucalypt Species (Eucalyptus Sideroxylon) replacing obsolete pine tree shelter belts in a demonstration site near Uralla.

“Effective risk management at the farm, regional and national scales can help to mitigate the impact of future droughts,” Mr Joyce said.

“These innovative projects will ensure our agricultural landscapes can adapt and regenerate into the future.”

Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management David Littleproud said the funding would enable farmer groups and agricultural organisations to adapt their practices and enhance their farming systems to increase drought resilience.

“Future droughts are inevitable, and while Australian farmers are well accustomed to climate variability, climate change is increasing the importance of managing drought risk,” Minister Littleproud said.

“This funding will support tangible projects that will help address this.

“The projects being funded will include a strong focus on local engagement, conducting training through face-to-face workshops, field days and small group training sessions.”

(ENDS)