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Lower Burdekin cane growers have the opportunity to boost irrigation efficiency and reduce farm costs through a new project aimed at modernising irrigation systems.
The Burdekin Tailored Automation project, delivered by NQ Dry Tropics, is encouraging growers to register their interest in upgrading to automated irrigation systems, with incentive grants of up to $30,000 available to help fund the transition.
The three-year project aims to improve irrigation practices across the region by ensuring crops receive the right amount of water at the right time. By automating irrigation infrastructure, growers may be able to reduce input costs, labour and water usage while maintaining crop yields.
Project Officer Michael Hobbs said inefficient irrigation systems were one of the main drivers of nutrient and pesticide runoff from farms.
Excess irrigation water can carry dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN), pesticides and other nutrients into nearby waterways, where they may eventually reach the Great Barrier Reef.
“That excess water provides no production benefit to the farmer and can wash valuable nutrients and pesticides away from where they’re needed in the paddock,” Mr Hobbs said.
“By applying the correct amount of water needed by the crop, it’s possible to reduce that runoff pathway while also improving the farm’s bottom line.”
Improved irrigation efficiency can also help address rising groundwater levels in some parts of the Lower Burdekin and may reduce issues such as waterlogging that can impact crop growth.
The project forms part of the Australian Government’s Reef Trust Reefwise Farming Program, which aims to improve water quality flowing to the reef while supporting farm productivity.
Places are limited and growers are encouraged to submit an expression of interest as soon as possible.
CAPTION: NQ Dry Tropics are giving local canegrowers with the opportunity to take their irrigation regimes to the next level, reducing input costs, and labour while maintaining yields. Photo source: NQ Dry Tropics
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