Livestock nutrition, feed budgeting in dry seasons, the weather and farmers’ wellbeing will be explored at AgriForums in the Adelaide Hills next month.

The forums aim to support farmers and horticulturalists to adapt and plan for dry conditions, and manage the personal toll of environmental stress.

Part of Centacare’s Drought Assistance Program, the forums at Balhannah and Meadows are FREE.

Keynote speaker Hamish Dickson, Principal Livestock Consultant, AgriPartner Consulting, will discuss:

· Increasing productivity through improved nutrition and management

· Managing stock during the transition to green feed

· Feed budgeting for sheep and cattle in dry seasons

· Principles of sheep and beef nutrition

Darren Ray, Senior Climatologist, Bureau of Meteorology, will analyse the local weather forecast and implications for farmers, while Dr. Keith Miller, of Flinders University, will explore the social impact of changing climatic conditions.

Lynne Thorpe, Manager of Centacare’s Family Outreach and Relationship Services, said making minor changes in response to the straight dry season could make a significant difference for farmers.

“I’ve lived in Clarendon all my life and on the same farm for 40 years,’’ Lynne said.

 “When it came to winter we wore rubber boots. We didn’t take them off, and when you walked in the paddock the boots stuck in the mud.

 “That doesn’t happen now and farmers are having to change their thinking. The shift is quite clear in the Adelaide Hills.’’

Click here for more details and/or phone Centacare’s Drought Assistance Program team on 8531 8888.

Free BBQ at 6pm for 6.30pm start. 

Funded by the Australian Government, the forums are being hosted in partnership with Relationships Australia.