Loss of top soil through wind erosion means loss of organic matter, fertilisers and other inputs so costly to farmers, often exposing less fertile subsoils and decreasing farm productivity.

Avongro Wheatbelt Tree Cropping spokesperson Monica Durcan said tree crops, pastures and cropping individually or in any combination were on offer with the opportunity for projects to run until March 2013.

“The program gives land managers the opportunity to trial techniques that may be new to the district and the opportunity for neighbours to share in the learnings,” she said.

“Funding is available up to $50,000 for any one project, but of course smaller projects are also very welcome.

“If you are interested in tree crops, then a significant number of seedlings are on offer: 237,000 oil mallees, 104,000 sandalwood hosts, 78,000 brushwood and 84,000 swamp sheoaks.”

She said in return for the assistance, successful land managers would have to commit to match funding with inkind contributions and a willingness to share what they learn with others.

“If you have been experiencing wind erosion on any part of your property and want to try something a bit different – submit an expression of interest by March 26 to Wheatbelt NRM,” said Ms Durcan.

Application forms can be found on the Wheatbelt NRM website at www.avonnrm.org.au/tenders/SCIP or can be obtained by contacting Wheatbelt NRM on 9690 2250.

Avongro Wheatbelt Tree Cropping is available to help develop tree cropping submissions on request by contacting Monica Durcan on 0418 934 870 or mdurcan@iinet.net.au.