Our land is not merely a backdrop for our endeavours; it is the very essence of our existence, shaping our practices and our livelihoods.
The diverse and breathtaking landscapes of SA offer us the resources, inspiration and- as we have been subjected to so significantly this year with drought-the challenges too, that drive our continued commitment to sustainable and productive farming.
I had cause to reflect on the relationship we as primary producers have with our landscapes when writing a speech I delivered at the SA Landscapes Forum earlier this month.
SA’s primary producers are passionate and dedicated stewards of the land they farm, and the landscapes in which they exist.
Through advancements in technology, sustainable farming methods, and a commitment to environmental stewardship, we have seen remarkable progress in our industry.
These achievements not only enhance our productivity but also safeguard the precious natural resources that we hold dear.
In SA, only 11 per cent of the state is arable. Most of the land is either managed native pastures used for grazing livestock or is under conservation and natural environments protection.
That 11pc includes all irrigated, horticultural and broadacre farming – not much in the scheme of things.
However, given the significant contribution this makes to the backbone of the state’s economy – and in the face of increasing climate variability which will curtail some of this ability – wouldn’t it be sensible to place a premium on maintaining this arable land for food production?
If the way in which we use the land is not compatible with the nature of the land, soils, vegetation and water, then in the long-term, major social, economic and environmental problems may occur.
Some land use changes can have a major impact on the environment, especially if it is a change from relatively low intensity use to a higher intensity use.
If these new land uses are not managed appropriately, then they can place greater pressure on water resources, biodiversity and soils, in comparison to other uses they may have replaced.
Using peri-urban land close to or surrounding urban areas for residential development increases pressure on biodiversity and water resources.
It also significantly impacts those remaining primary producers trying to maintain modern well-established farming practices alongside their new neighbours without adequate buffer zones being provided for by such development.
We know there is an immense housing problem in this nation, and SA is not immune to this.
However, I believe we can do better than to allow the very best of agriculturally productive land to be lost to yet more urban encroachment growing cement, albeit to support fundamental and aspirational family needs.
We must give greater regard to the importance of sustainable farming protection, alongside environment and optimal land resource use, through better planning and adequate protection.
I want a future where our children know, and can choose to be a part of, where their food comes from, where they understand the true costs of food production, and they cherish the fundamental commitment to landscape values.
This column was written by PPSA Chair Professor Simon Maddocks and originally appeared in the 29 May 2025 edition of Stock Journal.
