PROFILE OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
After growing up on a sheep property, Rachel studied agriculture science at university.
During her course she discovered there were many exciting fields of science within
agriculture. She thoroughly enjoyed the variety within the course.
 In her first job after graduation, she investigated the management of nitrogen on soils to minimise acidification in orchards. From there Rachel moved across to a research group investigating the losses of phosphorus from fertiliser applications on dairy pastures.
Rachel travelled overseas for several years and during this time worked in non
agriculture companies including British Telcom.
Rachel is now an extension officer for the Department of Natural Resources and
Environment working with the dairy industry and with other members of the community
to prevent nutrients entering waterways. This work has led to her continuing study in
a Masters in Environmental Engineering.
Rachel believes there will be an increasing emphasis on improving efficiencies such as
water and fertiliser use and much stricter controls on the dairy industry's impact on
the environment. However she believes the industry will continue to adopt knowledge
to improve its sustainability.
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