Beyond the Weather Forecast: A decision making Tool for Farmers

Beyond the Weather Forecast: A decision making Tool for Farmers

Author: NSW Local Land Services June 29, 2026 Duration: 27:55

What if farmers could better understand what's happening beneath their feet? And could that information help them make better decisions when seasons don't go to plan? 

In this episode, we explore Farming Forecaster, a free online tool that combines soil moisture, pasture growth and seasonal information to help farmers make more informed management decisions. 

We visit Mattana Farm near Milton on the NSW South Coast, where Bec and Adam share how a local soil moisture probe has helped them navigate drought, fire, flooding rains and difficult livestock decisions. 

Whether you're a data enthusiast or simply looking for another tool to support decision-making, this episode offers practical insights into using information alongside experience and intuition on farm. 

 

 

Featured Guests 

  • Bec and Adam – Mattana Farm, Milton NSW 

  • Matt Lieschke – Agricultural Extension Officer, Local Land Services 

  • Phil Graham – Agricultural Consultant 

 

Episode Guide 

  • (00:00) Farming through drought, fires and changing seasons 

  • (06:00) Why soil moisture and temperature matter 

  • (07:30) Using data to make tough stocking decisions 

  • (08:30) How Farming Forecaster helps manage climate variability 

  • (11:30) Exploring the website, probes and pasture forecasts 

  • (16:00) Setting trigger points before conditions deteriorate 

  • (24:30) Back on the farm: confidence, confirmation and practical advice 

Useful Links 


This episode is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program and delivered by South East Local Land Services, a member of the Commonwealth Regional Delivery Partners panel. Views and opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect those of Local Land Services or the Australian Government. 


Hosted by NSW Local Land Services, Big Shift For Small Farms-Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming is a conversation about the fundamental changes required in how we work the land. This podcast moves beyond theory, grounding each discussion in the real-world experiences of Australian farmers who are implementing regenerative practices. You’ll hear from those on the front lines-producers, researchers, and industry experts-as they share practical knowledge about holistic land management. The dialogue recognizes that a truly sustainable system connects everything, from the microbiology in the soil to the well-being of the people managing the landscape. These conversations are made possible by the Grow Love Project in partnership with NSW Local Land Services, supported by Australian Government funding. By listening, you join a community exploring how agricultural resilience is built, one small farm at a time. This podcast serves as a vital resource for anyone interested in the future of farming, offering honest insights and collaborative wisdom for a more regenerative path forward.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 49

Big Shift For Small Farms - Australian Agriculture and Regenerative Farming
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