QFF welcomes funding for Reef projects
The Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF) will partner with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation to deliver two new water quality projects that will support the efforts of farmers and others working with the agricultural sector to safeguard the future of the Reef.
The Reef Alliance Phase Two Project will see industry and NRM groups work with farmers to improve their land management practices. While the Early Career Extension Project will place up to 8 emerging extension officers with organisations that provide agricultural advisory services across the reef catchments to build professional capacity.
QFF President Stuart Armitage, on behalf of all delivery partners across the two projects, welcomed the Foundation’s investment in farmers and agricultural extension officers and their work to improve the quality of water entering Great Barrier Reef.
“Over the next year, Reef Alliance members Burnett Mary Regional Group, CANEGROWERS, Fitzroy Basin Association, NQ Dry Tropics and Terrain NRM, will work with farmers to adopt best management practices that will minimise runoff from farms,” Mr Armitage said.
“Skilled extension professionals will assist farmers increase their uptake of adaptive farm management practices to reduce soil loss, fertiliser application and pesticide runoff.”
“These important environmental stewardship actions will make improvements to the quality of the water leaving the farm and significantly contribute to the health of the Great Barrier Reef.”
“QFF looks forward to working constructively with the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, members of the Reef Alliance and the local community to deliver outcomes to improve water quality for the Reef.”
The Reef Alliance Phase Two Project and the Early Career extension officers Project are funded by the partnership between the Australian Government’s Reef Trust and the Great Barrier Reef Foundation.
ENDS
Media Contact:
Kayla Plunkett – 0448 000 692
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