In the realm of sustainable land management, Derek and Emma Zeimer are making waves with their innovative approach to tackling invasive weeds. Hailing from Bracewell, near Mount Larcom, this forward-thinking couple has caught the attention of many by shunning traditional herbicides in favor of a more natural, holistic strategy.
The culprit they’re combatting is the notorious giant rat’s tail grass, a problem plaguing landholders across the state. But rather than reaching for the spray pack, the Zeimers are slashing, fertilizing, mulching, and locking up their paddocks for six months. Their reasoning? A profound understanding of soil health and the broader ecosystem.
“The spray you use for weeds, you’re trying to just kill the one species, but you’re also killing all the other stuff that’s feeding your soils,” explained Derek Zeimer. By employing cell grazing and allowing natural restoration, they’ve witnessed a remarkable result – the rat’s tail grass gradually dwindles, a testament to their commitment to soil fertility.
Their approach is rooted in the principles of natural sequence farming, a concept developed by landscape regenerator Peter Andrews OAM. According to this system, weeds play an essential role in soil protection against erosion and nutrient deficiency. Slashing these weeds stimulates soil fertility, paving the way for nourishing grasses to thrive.
Emma Zeimer elaborated, “The soil gains vital structures from the breakdown of the weed, along with nutrients that facilitate growth. It’s crucial to use natural forms of fertilization, as synthetic chemicals can disrupt the delicate soil ecosystem. Rat’s tail grass helps regenerate the topsoil structure, making it more conducive for the next generation of grasses.”
Their dedication to this approach earned them a project grant from the Fitzroy Basin Association to extend their strategies to parthenium and lantana control. Bethlea Bell from the Association praised their work, noting how it aligned with the philosophy of natural sequence farming and its ability to enhance land hydration and improve beef production.
Their innovative methods haven’t gone unnoticed, with Cement Australia generously offering part of their property for the project, and Mount Larcom High School planning to incorporate the initiative into their agriculture studies.
The Zeimers’ story isn’t just about managing weeds; it’s a testament to how understanding the ecosystem and working with its natural rhythms can yield astonishing results. Their alternative land management methods played a pivotal role in rebuilding their cattle herd after a devastating bushfire in 2018, showcasing the resilience of regenerative practices.
Derek and Emma Zeimer’s journey showcases the potential for change when we harmonize with nature’s wisdom. Their story is an inspiration for farmers, environmentalists, and anyone with a deep reverence for sustainable land stewardship.
