South Australia’s landscapes have been shaped by generations of stewardship.
Today, primary producers manage much of the state’s land and water resources, producing the food and fibre that sustain our economy while maintaining the natural assets on which agriculture depends.
That practical experience is essential in shaping the future of our landscapes, and is why I encourage experienced and emerging leaders from across agriculture to nominate for their regional Landscape Board.
Regional Boards make important decisions about natural resource management, water, biodiversity, pest plants and animals, climate resilience and regional investment.
These decisions have real and lasting con- sequences for farming businesses, regional communities and SA’s productive capacity.
For primary producers, landscape management is not an abstract policy discussion, it is the daily reality of running productive, profitable and sustainable businesses.
The Landscape South Australia Act recognises this connection by acknowledging Primary Producers SA as the peak body representing the state’s primary production sector.
That recognition reflects the fundamental relationship between sustainable primary production and the long-term management of our landscapes.
On behalf of the sector, PPSA works constructively with regional Landscape Boards, the Department for Environment and Water and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions to help shape the strategic policies, programs and investment that affect SA’s agricultural industries.
Our role is to ensure the practical experience of primary producers informs decisions that support both healthy landscapes and a productive, globally competitive farm sector.
That role has never been more important. Agriculture is navigating increasing pressure from climate variability, changing land use, water security, biodiversity initiatives and evolving community expectations.
Successfully balancing these competing demands requires practical policy informed by the people who manage our landscapes every day.
Regional Landscape Boards are strongest when they bring together agricultural, environmental, scientific and community expertise.
Farmers and pastoralists offer a perspective grounded in practical experience, long-term investment and an understanding that productive agriculture and sustainable landscapes are mutually dependent.
Serving on a regional Landscape Board is an opportunity to influence decisions that extend well beyond your own enterprise.
It is a chance to contribute to the strategic direction of your region, ensuring policy and investment support both environmental outcomes and the long-term viability of our state’s primary industries.
Importantly, you do not need previous board experience.
What matters is sound judgement, integrity, a willingness to listen and a commitment to serving your region.
SA needs capable agricultural leaders prepared to contribute their knowledge and experience to these important conversations.
If you have the skills, the perspective and the commitment to make a difference, I encourage you to put your hand up.
Strong regional Landscape Boards need strong agricultural representation.
Our regions, our industries and the future of SA primary production will be stronger for it.
This column was written by PPSA Chair Professor Simon Maddocks and originally appeared in the 30 July 2026 edition of Stock Journal.
