It's time for Australia to develop a system of agriculture that is truly Australian, not a modified European method some 200 years old, says Charles Sturt University (CSU) soil and water researcher, Dr Ben Wilson.

"Australians are using methods brought to the country since Europeans arrived in 1788. Increasing salinity, acid soils and erosion are symptoms that all is not well on our farms and that they might not be the best way to work with the Australian environment," says Dr Wilson. 

Dr Wilson is coordinating the Fenner Conference – Australia's premier annual conference on the environment – which will gather farmers, scientists and policy developers in the national capital to address the future of agriculture in the Australian environment. [ See background notes ]

A leading US researcher will also highlight international experiences in how communities deal with complex problems involving people and the environment.

George Stankey from the US Forest Service will explain ways in which the US Government and communities have dealt with conflicting issues in land management.

During the conference, farmers from six regions across Australia will tell their stories to scientists and government policymakers. Based on these case studies, conference participants will explore options for developing for a uniquely Australian system of agriculture that addresses problems highlighted by the farmers.

"A lasting, productive agricultural system should sustain the farmer and the environment. Only a system that recognises the nation's unique natural, economic and political landscape could be appropriate for all Australians," Dr Wilson said.

The 2002 Fenner Conference, titled Agriculture for the Australian Environment, runs from 30 July to 1 August at the Rydges Hotel, Canberra.

The meeting is organised by CSU's Johnstone Centre, the Federal Bureau of Rural Sciences, CSIRO and Land & Water Australia.