RENOWNED soil microbiologist Phill Lee and veterinarian Dr Gundi Rhoades will demonstrate how conventional farming methods contribute to heat stress, drought conditions, and declining animal and human health at an upcoming Delatite Landcare Group field day 'Soil Biology and Climate Resilience Field Day'.
Lee, founder and director of Regenerate Earth, has spent decades researching how agricultural practices affect soil health and local climate dynamics.
His research shows that conventional ploughing and tillage significantly impact landscape temperatures by exposing soil biology to elements that increase heat radiation.
The field day will also feature Dr Gundi Rhoades, a practising veterinarian with over 30 years of experience and member of Regenerate Earth.
Dr Rhoades will address the critical relationship between soil biology and animal health.
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"Through my veterinary practice, I've observed a concerning increase in health issues in both farm animals and pets," said Dr Rhoades.
"Many of these problems can be traced back to nutritional deficiencies stemming from food grown in depleted soils.
Phill Lee said many farmers may not realise that bare, tilled soil acts like a heat radiator.
"This contributes to the formation of high-pressure heat domes that block moisture inflow and worsen drought conditions that are already challenging Australian farmers," Mr Lee said.
The field day, scheduled for June 12 and 13 in Mansfield, will demonstrate practical alternatives to traditional farming methods.
According to Lee, maintaining year-round green cover over paddocks helps cool local climates by enhancing the soil's capacity to retain moisture and support microbial life.
Third-generation farmer James Wilson from Narromine juts outside of Dubbo adopted Lee's methods three years ago and has seen remarkable changes.
"Before switching to year-round cover crops and rotational grazing, our soil temperatures in summer were reaching dangerous levels," Mr Wilson said.
"Now, even in the hottest months, there's a noticeable difference in both soil temperature and moisture retention."
Climate scientist Dr. Sarah Chen from the University of Sydney, who is not affiliated with Regenerate Earth but studies agricultural impacts on regional climate patterns, confirms that ground cover makes a significant difference.
"Our data shows that regions with higher percentages of bare soil experience measurably higher average temperatures and more extreme heat events," Dr Chen said.
With Australian farmers increasingly facing climate extremes, the field day aims to provide practical solutions that can help agricultural communities build resilience while potentially contributing to regional cooling effects.
The event will feature a presentation, practical activity exploring the soil biology from local samples, site visits, cover crop selection for different farming systems, and methods to transition from conventional to regenerative practices without sacrificing productivity.
For Lee, the mission extends beyond individual farm benefits.
"When enough farmers adopt these practices, we can actually influence regional climate patterns in positive ways," he said.
"This isn't just about one farm's productivity—it's about transforming our relationship with the landscape."
The field day is open to farmers, agricultural professionals, Landcare carers and interested community members.
Registration information can be found at www.up2us.org.au or by calling 5779 1593.
