Beyond the Weather Forecast: A decision making Tool for Farmers

<p>What if farmers could better understand what&#39;s happening beneath their feet? And could that information help them make better decisions when seasons don&#39;t go to plan? </p><p>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. </p><p>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. </p><p>Whether you&#39;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. </p><p> </p><p> </p><p>Featured Guests </p><ul><li><p>Bec and Adam – Mattana Farm, Milton NSW </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Matt Lieschke – Agricultural Extension Officer, Local Land Services </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Phil Graham – Agricultural Consultant </p></li></ul><p> </p><p>Episode Guide </p><ul><li><p>(00:00) Farming through drought, fires and changing seasons </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(06:00) Why soil moisture and temperature matter </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(07:30) Using data to make tough stocking decisions </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(08:30) How Farming Forecaster helps manage climate variability </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(11:30) Exploring the website, probes and pasture forecasts </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(16:00) Setting trigger points before conditions deteriorate </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>(24:30) Back on the farm: confidence, confirmation and practical advice </p></li></ul><p>Useful Links </p><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.farmingforecaster.com.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Farming Forecaster</a> </p></li></ul><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.lls.nsw.gov.au/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">NSW Local Land Services</a> </p></li></ul><p><br></p><p>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. </p>