Michael Crawford

The Soil CRC (CRC for High Performance Soils) is bringing together scientists, industry and farmers to find practical solutions for Australia’s underperforming soils. The Soil CRC aims to enable farmers to increase their productivity and profitability by providing them with knowledge and tools to improve the performance of their soils. It is the biggest collaborative soil research effort in Australia’s history, with 40 participants that contribute to the Soil CRC through both cash and in-kind contributions. It was established in 2017 to give farmers the knowledge and tools they need to make decisions on extremely complex soil management issues. By bridging a gap between soil scientists and farmers, we will ensure that soil performance is increased not just in the short term, but in the long term. Our practical, real-world outputs will allow farmers to optimise their productivity, yield and profitability, and ensure the long-term sustainability of their farming businesses. Through its soil research and innovation program, the Soil CRC will develop new solutions that will unlock the potential of Australia’s agricultural sector. It will address the billions of dollars in lost opportunity experienced by farmers and regional communities due to infertile and underperforming soils. The Soil CRC will deliver • New mechanisms for financially rewarding management of high performance soils. • New integrated soil management solutions that provide greater precision for farmers. • New ways to measure the performance of soils. • New advanced and innovative products to increase soil fertility and function.