NRW’S RESOURCE MANAGEMENT DIVERSITY ON SHOW AT AG-GROW

The diversity of resource management in Central Queensland will be showcased at the Department of Natural Resources and Water’s (NRW) stand at Emerald’s Ag-Grow Field Days next week (July 12-14).

Two current projects in the Central Highlands will be on display – the Bauhinia Downs pasture monitoring results and a Neighbourhood Catchment study.

Results of the Bauhinia Downs study will show the land condition and trends recorded over the past 15 years in the shire. Landholders will also have the opportunity to meet NRW staff to discuss techniques for monitoring their own pastures.

The Neighbourhood Catchment study, focusing on Gordonstone Creek near Emerald and Spottswood Creek near Moura, involves the movement of pollutants originating from broadscale land use. This display will include high-technology pressure transducers and data loggers used in monitoring rainfall events.

Natural Resources and Water Minister Craig Wallace said field days provided an insight into sustainable and responsible management of land, water and vegetation.

Mr Wallace said they also gave property owners and farmers an excellent opportunity to have their questions answered in person.

“Sustainability and responsibility have to be our main priorities if we want a strong economic and environmental future for Queensland," Mr Wallace said.

"This means looking more carefully at our resources and production methods to see if there are better ways of managing them - ways that will ensure their availability or usefulness long term.

"This year's display will show not only what the government is doing about managing for the future, but will give visitors ideas about how they can do the same in their everyday lives."

Mr Wallace said visitors to NRW displays could receive information about topics including vegetation management, compliance, fire management and cultural heritage.

"With water conservation high on the agenda, NRW will also provide information on the popular home and garden WaterWise rebate schemes," he said.

The display will offer something for everyone with the NRW fire crew displaying its new all-terrain vehicle, the ‘Argo’, after recently completing hazard-reduction work in the Gemfields.

NRW handouts include sample bags, WaterWise pamphlets, booklets about water quality and information about vegetation.

The NRW display is located at site D15.

The Ag-Grow Field Days are held on the Capricorn Highway, east of Emerald, running from 8am-5pm each day.

Media inquiries: Caroline Kaurila, Craig Wallace’s office, on 3896 3694 or 0414 213 954.