Business & Rural
7 May, 2021
From Wimmera CMA – Weather Stations and Soil Moisture Probes
SOIL Moisture Probes and weather stations are a relatively new and innovative technology that can play a critical role in risk management and decision making for farm businesses.
For instance, weather stations can be used to select ideal times to spray and fertilise.
Having access to accurate soil moisture probe data can assist in determining crop types and rotations.
This kind of technology is of increasing importance to Wimmera farmers who are experiencing greater seasonal variability, particularly lower soil moisture levels.
That is why Wimmera Catchment Management Authority (Wimmera CMA) with support from farmers and partner organisations are building a network of weather stations and soil moisture probes across the Wimmera. Project Support Officer Peter Velthuis said the project has been funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund.
“The Wimmera CMA will be supporting farmers to install and link weather stations and soil moisture probes across the Wimmera, with a range of data made available to the public. Workshops and on ground activities will also be delivered in the Wimmera region over the next 18 months” said Mr Velthuis.
The project will be completed by June 2022 with many ongoing benefits.
“Wimmera CMA are inviting Wimmera farmers who have already installed weather stations and soil moisture probes to also be involved in the project, by telling us about their set up” said Mr Velthuis.
Farmers with weather stations and soil moisture probes call Peter on 0428 990 907.
