On-farm changes
Jim Coren from Tucki Tucki NSW has committed to understanding deficiencies in soil as a practice change. This decision was influenced by the shared practices of his fellow mentees, which highlighted the importance of addressing soil health comprehensively. By focusing on soil deficiencies, Jim aims to improve the foundational aspects of his farming operations, ensuring that the soil can support healthy plant growth and sustainable agricultural practices.
Jim’s confidence in making changes towards regenerative agricultural principles is rated at 5 out of 5 across each of the seven principles identified by Lorraine Gordon’s (2024) research. This high level of confidence indicates a strong understanding and readiness to implement regenerative methods. Jim is well-versed in the core principles of regenerative agriculture, including being ecologically literate, thinking holistically, and understanding complex adaptive systems. His commitment to these principles reflects a deep engagement with the ecological and holistic aspects of farming.
The regenerative principles that Jim adheres to emphasise seeing the landscape as a community, acknowledging diverse ways of working with it, and understanding the co-evolution of human cultures with their environments. These principles guide his approach to farming, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration with the landscape. Engaging with First Nations people and remaining curious, seeking transformative experiences, and continuous learning are also integral to his approach, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive and adaptive practices.
Jim values engaging in ecological renewal and making place-based decisions through monitoring. This practice ensures that his farming methods are responsive to the specific needs and conditions of his land. Overall, Jim’s experience with the RAMP program has reinforced his commitment to regenerative agriculture, providing him with the knowledge and confidence to implement sustainable practices effectively.