Farming is about being sustainable.
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And that is what a series of free field days across southern NSW and northern Victoria are aiming to focus on over the next few weeks.
Australian National University' Sustainable Farms are hosting the days, starting on August 23, which focus on farm dams, native shelterbelts and pollination.
Senior research and extension officer and farmer Mason Crane said the events are about learning the latest science and management practices from farmers and scientists.
"The value of good shelter and quality water for livestock performance and farm productivity should not be underestimated," he said.
"Research tells us that providing shade, wind protection and fresh water generates substantial gains in growth rates, in both cattle and sheep, wool growth, milk production and lamb survivability, gains often up to 20-30 per cent.
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"Achieving a fraction of these gains is well worth the effort and with funding incentives often out there to help, such as Riverina Local Land Services Farm Dams for Biodiversity project, it's a good time to get into it."
Dr Crane said many of farmers say improving shelter and water quality on farms "go beyond livestock production".
"From creating havens for native birds and housing beneficial insects, both pollinators and natural pest control, to improving farmers' mental health, sense of wellbeing and pride in what they do," he said.
"It's a win-win-win."
The first farm day which focuses on shelterbelts kicks off on Friday, August 23 at Phil and Many Locke's properties Fairview and Bimbimbi near Holbrook.
A range of topics will be discussed including designing shelterbelts for biodiversity, the multiple benefits of shelterbelts for production, the role of shelterbelts in integrated pasture pest management and fox and other vertebrate management.
There will be presentations from Dr Crane, NSW DPI research entomologist Dr Jo Holloway, Murray Local Land Services biosecurity officer Steve Wilson and Holbrook Landcare's Kylie Durant.
There will be farm tours, a range of speakers and a chance to have a barbecue lunch and a chat with experts and other farmers.
In partnership with local land services and landcare some of the field days include August 23 at Holbrook on shelterbelts, August 25 at Everton on farm dams, August 29 at Burrumbuttock on shelterbelts and paddock trees, August 30 at Corowa on pollinators and shelterbelts and September 4 at Henty on farm dams.
To find out more information and to book visit eventbrite.com.au/o/sustainable-farms-18590228007