This research highlights the experiences of a selection of farmers in New South Wales in implementing innovative land management practices and processes. It shows the prevalence of independent testing and trialling, the time and resources needed to implement change, and the important ability of observing and responding to the landscape, whether this is through property redesign or management adaptations. This is no small task for farmers working at the interface of production and conservation, trying to balance the demands of both. The implementation of new practices and processes requires an ongoing process of innovation and change – something which is too often ignored when the focus is on the point of ‘adoption’. If researchers and policy makers could contribute to this effort through the creation of new opportunities, not only would an enabling environment for innovation be created, but also opportunities for sustainability. The importance of fostering ongoing innovation that enhances both agricultural productivity and sustainability cannot be overemphasised. With about seven billion people alive today, projections of population increases until approximately 2050, and growing concerns about the amount of, and quality of, land available for agriculture on earth, farmer driven innovation that promotes sustainability is crucial. This thesis is one small step in this critical endeavour
