GROWERS READY FOR COMPUTER-BASED WORKSHOPS

摘要

Over the course of two months, 65 growers completed computer-based Land and Water Management Plan Workshops. Growers entered their property information into a Geographic Information System (GIS) and filled out an online workbook. Workshops were effective, with growers completing at least 90% of their plan by the end of the day. 'The course was run really well despite the fact that I'm over 60, can't type and don't know computers very well, my wife and I completed most of our plan by the end of the day.' Bruno Fabbro, Invicta Grower. BSES and DPI&F staff developed a workshop that would assist growers in completing property specific plans, as well as provide information and advice that could lead to improved on-farm profitability and sustainability. Prior to the workshop 140 maps were prepared, with 90% of growers entering their data into a GIS at CANEGROWERS Burdekin. This data can now be used by growers for Occupational Health and Safety, property planning, and for historic records. Growers entered their own data into a computer database by answering a series of questions based on the Burdekin Land and Water Management Plan Guidelines. During the workshop extension staff gave presentations on irrigation, pesticide and nutrient management, workplace health and safety, and other issues relevant to the group present. What made the computer based workshops successful? 1. Participant specific information. 2. Availability of good resources. 3. Six new computers funded. 4. Well-resourced GIS. 5. Easy-to-use computer program. 6. Local extension staff with local knowledge. 7. Small workshop groups. 8. Maximum of 6 farming entities per workshop. 9. High participant to instructor ratio, 3:1. 10. Both growers and facilitators prepared supporting information. The workshops were sponsored primarily by Rural Water Use Efficiency 2, with in-kind support from BSES, DPI&F, NR&W and CANEGROWERS Burdekin.