
Practical checks for improved irrigation outcomes
From DairyPod by Dairy Australia
November 20, 2025 · 32 min · Episode 148
About this episode
Cath Lescun discusses irrigation planning and management essentials with Dr James Hills, focusing on practical checks and tools for dairy farmers.
In this episode, Cath Lescun, National Soils & Water Lead at Dairy Australia, chats with Dr James Hills, Livestock Production Centre Leader at the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, to discuss the essentials of irrigation planning and management. They cover the key steps and checks before irrigating — from preparation and pressure testing to understanding soil types – along with practical tools and methods for assessing soil moisture, calculating how much water to apply, understanding readily available water (RAW) and getting irrigation scheduling right. A timely update for dairy farmers, whether already irrigating or holding off due to seasonal conditions. For more information, resources and support on soils and irrigation contact your local Dairy Australia team or visit dairyaustralia.com.au/soils-and-water/irrigation See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
People in this episode
Guest: Dr James Hills
Topics covered
- irrigation
- soil management
- dairy farming
Keywords
- irrigation planning
- soil moisture
- water application
- irrigation scheduling
Mentioned in this episode
Products: irrigation tools, soil moisture assessment tools
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