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Farmers urged to “pledge a lamb” to support #SaveOurSoils campaign

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Farmers across the Limestone Coast are being encouraged to pledge a lamb, make a donation, or join the Limestone Coast Sustainable Futures Association (LCSF) as the community ramps up efforts to protect prime farmland from the threat of rare earth mining.

LCSF Chair Todd Woodard said the fundraising and membership drive was essential to ensure farmers and landholders had a strong, informed, and coordinated voice as mining pressure on the region grows.

Participating local stock agencies include Nutrien, SAL, PPHS, Elders, and TDC who will coordinate the distribution of proceeds of sale directly to the association during the summer selling period.

“Rare earth strip mining is a very real and urgent threat to the Limestone Coast,” Mr Woodard said. “We’re asking farmers to pledge a lamb this summer, or make a financial contribution, so we can continue advocating for the protection of our soils, water, and livelihoods before irreversible decisions are made.

“Generous donations have supported the campaign to date, but as a new term of government begins, more funds will be needed to maintain the momentum we’ve already built.”

Since forming 18 months ago, LCSF has led a grassroots campaign against rare earth mining proposals, including the Koppamurra Project south of Narracoorte. The Association has called for a fully independent vulnerability assessment to evaluate the impacts of mining on agriculture, water, ecosystems, and local communities.

LCSF has also engaged with regional stakeholders, briefed key MPs and state decision-makers, worked with all Limestone Coast councils (which have formally supported the campaign), and connected extensively with landholders and community groups.

“This campaign has been driven by volunteers and supported by farmers and business leaders who understand what’s at stake,” Mr Woodard said.

“To keep going, we need broader community support to fund expert advice, independent analysis, and ongoing engagement.”

For January and February, LCSF is asking farmers to:

  • Pledge a lamb (or livestock equivalent) at a local livestock market,
  • Make a financial donation, or
  • Become a member of the Association.

Funds raised will directly support advocacy, expert consultation, and the push for stronger land-use protections in the Limestone Coast.

“Stopping rare earth mining before it begins is far cheaper than dealing with decades of environmental damage, lost productivity, and community stress,” Mr Woodard said. “Pledging a lamb, or equivalent, is a practical way for farmers to stand together and protect the future of this region.”

Farmers wishing to support the campaign are encouraged to speak directly with their local stock agent to coordinate logistics. Alternatively, donations, corflute purchases, and membership can be made via the LCSF website: www.limestonecoastsustainablefutures.com.au.