It was a beautiful day in Foxground, where Landcare Illawarra hosted its much-anticipated Farm Dam Workshop. We started our morning at the Foxground Fire Station, where twenty passionate attendees, ranging from Sydney to Milton, gathered to learn about restoring farm dams to enhance biodiversity and slow water runoff. The day was filled with insightful presentations, hands-on activities, and meaningful conversations about sustainable land management.
The workshop began with an informative presentations from Jodie Brown (Biodiversity Conservation Trust) and Jeff Harbrow (Whipbird Educational) which set the tone for the day. We explored the crucial role farm dams play in our ecosystems and how restoring them can significantly impact water quality, soil health, and biodiversity. One of the highlights of the presentation was a restored dam in Foxground, which illustrated the positive changes that could be achieved in less than two years. This example gave everyone a clear vision of what is possible when we commit to land restoration.
After the presentation, we took a break to enjoy a lovely lunch of gourmet sandwiches and sweets. It was a perfect opportunity to mingle, share stories, and discuss ideas, all while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
After the briefing, it was time to get our hands dirty! We proceeded to plant the grasses and trees around the dam. The hands-on experience was both educational and rewarding, giving everyone a sense of contribution to the property’s ecological health.
To wrap up the day, the property owners, Phil and Carolyn, were presented with a selection of grasses and trees by Emma Rooksby, the chair of Illawarra Landcare. This gesture was a token of appreciation for their hospitality and dedication to land restoration.
The Farm Dam Workshop was a success, bringing together individuals who share a common goal of improving our environment. It was a day filled with learning, connection, and hands-on conservation work. Through initiatives like this, we can make meaningful strides towards a more sustainable future, one farm dam at a time.
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This day showcased the power of community action in environmental stewardship. It reminded us that each effort, no matter how small, plays a part in restoring the balance of our natural ecosystems. We look forward to more workshops like this, where we can continue to learn, share, and grow together for the betterment of our environment.
