In a recent report to the Federal Government, Australia’s National Soils Advocate Major General Michael Jeffery, stated that ‘soil is a critical national strategic asset’. Whoa! That’s food for thought isn’t it, when as gardeners or farmers we might complain about the quality of our soil, and perhaps not consider it an asset at all! Read more: http://www.agriculture.gov.au/SiteCollectionDocuments/ag-food/publications/restore-soil-prosper.pdf

He challenges us further by saying ‘The emerging concept of ‘soil security’ also underpins the world’s six existential challenges: food, water and energy security, climate change abatement, biodiversity protection and human health. I believe that soil and water security will increasingly underpin global social stability and security.’

‘Australia leads the world in our approach to water management. While there is more work to be done particularly in respect to excessive evaporation and run off, water policy is an example of a national response that is possible when the public and political importance of a fundamental and finite natural resource is recognised. I believe that along with our water, our soil and vegetation assets are so important, all three should be declared as key national, natural strategic assets, to be managed accordingly and in an integrated way. Mismanaging any one invariably means the other two also fail.’

So there it is again! I’m sure we have heard this before? – the significance of the connections between the elements of our ecosystems – water, soil and vegetation – our world. All we have to do is restore those connections to function as positively as they did in the past. Are you up for the challenge? Join others who are taking action for a prosperous future.