Old Bonalbo farmer Rod Stanford didn't realise managing a plantation would grow into such a major commitment, but his hard work has paid off, not in timber just yet – that will take another 15 years or so – but in the form of a prestigious award.
On Monday Rod was presented with the NSW Tree Farmer of the Year award from the Australian Forest Growers, who said Rod's management of the plantation was an example to other farmers of how to do it right.
Rod's 110-hectare farm is home to a plantation of three select eucalypt species – an ironbark, a red mahogany and a white mahogany. He has planted trees in steep and difficult areas that are less suitable for agriculture and as a result has begun to halt erosion as well as provide habitat for a range of native wildlife from wallabies to squirrel gliders. He also holds field days to share his ideas and knowledge with his neighbours and encourage sustainable plantation management.
Well done and well deserved, Rod.
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