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the australian farmer
There is no “silver bullet” or instant fix but it’s about stacking the odds in your favour. And for an increasing number of Australian producers, it’s also about being able to leave the land in better shape for the next generation. Because when the soil is healthy, the business is stronger. And when both are resilient, we can face whatever the seasons bring. Can We Grow Rain? There’s also growing interest in the idea that healthier landscapes may help bring rain - not just hold it. While it’s a complex process influenced by many variables, the theory behind 'growing rain' is based on how vegetation and soils contribute in practical ways to the local water cycle. When plants tran- spire and soils release moisture, they add water vapour to the atmosphere. This humidity can help build cloud cover and support localised rainfall events, particularly in areas downwind. This is part of what scientists refer to as ‘green water’ or 'the small water cycle' - the localised loop of evaporation, condensation, and precipita- tion that happens over land. When the land is bare or degraded, this cycle is disrupted. When enough land is covered and its soil is biologically active, the cycle strengthens. International examples, like the holistic graz- ing in Zimbabwe or the terraced cereal, fruit, vegetable and livestock farming in Loess Plateau in China, show that restoring vegetation and soil function can lead to more stable and frequent rain patterns. In Australia, some producers have reported the return of morning dew, ground fogs, and increased rainfall regularity after years of re- generative practices. While more research is needed, the practical steps that support this potential - like maintaining groundcover, building organic matter, and diversi- fying vegetation - are already being used for soil health and water retention. Growing rain may be a long-term outcome of enough producers doing those things well.
In Closing These aren’t niche practices—they’re being used by producers managing large areas, tight margins, and real-world constraints. You don’t need to overhaul your whole system to start. Many farmers begin with one paddock, one practice, or one new observa- tion—and build from there. Small, practical steps can make a big difference, especially when they’re done with a clear goal and a good read of the land. The key point is that these practical changes are ur- gently needed to rebuild the soil carbon sponge— restoring hydrology, resilience, productivity, and long-term viability on your farm and beyond. It’s about agency and legacy—putting more control back in your hands and helping ensure future generations inherit land that’s not only func- tional, but flourishing.
Cindy Eiritz is cofounder of non-profit Regenerate Earth. They grow soils, communities, and futures through consultancy, education, and advocacy.
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