Building Resilient Soils at Shiloh Park

Above: Jillian Lindley at Shiloh Park, where regenerative farming practices are helping build healthier soils, improve biodiversity and strengthen the farm's resilience for the future.

Healthy Soils. Better Farming. Stronger Future.

Shiloh Park is embarking on an exciting regenerative agriculture project designed to improve soil health, increase biodiversity and build a more resilient farming system for the future. Supported by a Climate Resilience Grant and delivered in partnership with Bio Gro, RJA Agricultural Consultants and Nutrien Ag Solutions Mount Gambier, the project will demonstrate how practical, science-backed farming practices can improve productivity while caring for the land.

The Vision

Following the successful award of a Climate Resilience Grant, Shiloh Park has commenced a regenerative agriculture project across 40 hectares of existing pasture. Running from mid-2025 through to late 2027, the project aims to build soil carbon, improve biodiversity, and enhance the long-term sustainability and profitability of the farm.

The project brings together the expertise of Bio Gro, RJA Agricultural Consultants, and Nutrien Ag Solutions Mount Gambier to trial a range of regenerative farming practices that work together to improve soil function and pasture performance.

Establishing a Baseline

The first stage of the project focuses on understanding the current condition of the soil. Comprehensive soil testing has been undertaken to measure existing mineral levels, nutrient availability, biological activity, and soil carbon.

These results will provide the benchmark against which future improvements can be measured throughout the life of the project.

Restoring Soil Health

Based on the soil analysis, a targeted soil remineralisation program will be implemented to address nutrient deficiencies and unlock nutrients already present within the soil profile.

To further improve soil health, AgriGro compost supplied by Bio Gro has been applied across the trial area. The compost will help stimulate beneficial soil biology, increase organic matter, and support the gradual build-up of soil carbon.

Soil aeration has also been carried out along the natural contours of the paddocks to reduce compaction, improve water infiltration, and increase the soil's capacity to retain moisture.

Increasing Biodiversity

Improving biodiversity is another key objective of the project.

Native paddock trees will be planted to help recycle nutrients from deeper soil layers while providing valuable habitat for birds, insects and other wildlife. Existing wetlands will also be fenced to protect these important environmental assets and encourage further biodiversity across the property.

Improving Grazing Management

Alongside improvements to soil health, grazing management practices are being refined through the introduction of cell grazing.

By dividing larger paddocks into smaller grazing cells, livestock can graze more efficiently while allowing pastures longer recovery periods. This approach promotes stronger pasture growth, healthier root systems, and improved ground cover.

Chickens will also be incorporated into the grazing cycle to naturally break down livestock manure, assist with parasite control, and further stimulate biological activity within the soil.

Measuring Success

The project will be monitored throughout its duration, with a comprehensive evaluation scheduled for late 2027.

Success will be measured using a range of indicators, including

• Soil carbon levels
• Soil biology and nutrient availability
• Pasture productivity and species diversity
• Livestock performance
• Economic performance and cost analysis

Soil testing will continue at depths of 0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm to track changes throughout the soil profile.

Sharing the Journey

Later this season, Shiloh Park will host a field day to introduce the project, share early observations and discuss the desired outcomes with farmers, industry representatives, and project partners.

The event will provide an opportunity for the wider farming community to see the project firsthand, discuss regenerative farming practices and explore how similar approaches may be adopted across the region.

Contact Bio Gro to talk with our agronomy team about your farming operation, soil goals, and the compost-based solutions best suited to your local conditions.