World Soil Day marked by commemorating the importance of soil health

World Soil Day commemorated the benefits of good soil management and agricultural productivity, while highlighting the importance of healthy soil and sustainable management.

The year's theme is "Keep soil alive, protect soil biodiversity".

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Minister for Agriculture and Drought David Littleproud said 95 per cent of our food comes from soil and good soil health is crucial in supporting our $61 billion agricultural industry.

"Farmers are our on-the-ground soil stewards," Mr Littleproud said.

"They know their patch of dirt like the back of their hand and they know the importance of nurturing this valuable resource for future generations.

A new national award was launched to coincide with the day, seeking to recognise the work of Australia's first National Soils Advocate, Major General the Honourable Michael Jeffery.

The prestigious accolade recognises an individual's work to champion, improve and educate others in soil health.

Australia's new National Soils Advocate, the Honourable Penney Wensley said: "As Australia's first National Soils Advocate, General Jeffery was a tireless champion of soil health and changed attitudes towards soil sustainability."

The government's National Soil Strategy, the first of its kind, hopes to improve soil management, mapping, modelling and forecasting of soil-related issues and improve our understanding of soil's role in delivering ecosystem services.

"We're also investing in new technologies to reduce the cost of measuring soil carbon to $3 per hectare, per year," Mr Littleproud said.

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