Overview
Managing Wind Erosion
Wind erosion is a major land management challenge in the Limestone Coast, where over a quarter of the region’s landscape is highly susceptible due to sandy soils, low organic matter, and flat terrain. The loss of even a millimetre of topsoil can mean losing 10–12 tonnes per hectare—often in minutes under strong winds—causing significant losses in productivity, soil fertility, infrastructure, and land value.
This management priority focuses on helping landholders reduce erosion risk by maintaining adequate surface cover, particularly in cultivated or grazed areas. Deep sands and dune systems are especially vulnerable where vegetation has been removed or disturbed. The guide promotes the use of minimum cover thresholds, no-till practices, strategic fencing, pest control, and paddock planning to help keep soil in place and productive.
Where erosion has already occurred, practical remediation steps such as levelling blowouts, clay spreading, and re-establishing pasture can stabilise soils and restore resilience.
Preventing wind erosion protects more than just soil—it safeguards long-term farm viability, reduces maintenance costs, and maintains environmental and aesthetic values. By adopting best practices, Limestone Coast landholders can help sustain their properties for future generations.
