Water & Reef

In Australia, maintaining water quality and protecting the Great Barrier Reef from agricultural impacts involves several key responsibilities for farmers and the broader agricultural sector:

Nutrient and Fertilizer Management

• Excessive fertilizer use can lead to nutrient runoff into rivers, which eventually reaches the reef and promotes harmful algae growth. Farmers are encouraged to adopt nutrient management plans to apply the right type, amount, and timing of fertilizer to minimize runoff.
• Precision agriculture techniques, such as soil testing and controlled release fertilizers, help in applying only as much fertilizer as the crops require.

Pesticide and Chemical Use

• Misuse of pesticides can contaminate water sources and harm aquatic life. Farmers are responsible for applying pesticides only when necessary and following recommended application guidelines to reduce the risk of chemical runoff.
• Integrated pest management (IPM) is promoted to reduce chemical reliance by incorporating biological and cultural practices for pest control.

Erosion Control and Soil Health

• Erosion contributes to sediment runoff, which can carry nutrients and pesticides into waterways. Farmers implement practices like cover cropping, contour farming, and maintaining riparian buffer zones to reduce soil erosion.
• Maintaining soil health through reduced tillage, crop rotation, and organic amendments helps improve soil structure, thereby reducing the risk of erosion.

Water Management and Irrigation Practices

• Inefficient irrigation practices can increase runoff and water wastage. Farmers are encouraged to use water-saving methods, such as drip irrigation and scheduling irrigation based on crop needs, to minimize water use and prevent runoff into natural water systems.
• Monitoring water use and maintaining irrigation systems in good condition helps in preventing water waste and contamination.

Riparian and Vegetation Management

• Farmers are responsible for maintaining or restoring vegetation along watercourses, which helps filter runoff, stabilize banks, and reduce sediment reaching the waterways. Riparian zones act as natural buffers, trapping pollutants before they enter the water system.
• Planting trees and maintaining natural vegetation around farms also helps with carbon sequestration and reduces the overall environmental footprint.

Compliance with Environmental Regulations and Standards

• Farmers must adhere to regulations under the Reef 2050 Plan and other government initiatives designed to protect the reef and water quality, including reporting requirements, regular inspections, and adopting best practice guidelines.
• Programs like Smartcane BMP (Best Management Practices) and Grazing BMP provide industry-specific guidelines for cane growers and graziers to implement sustainable practices that meet water quality targets.

Participation in Education and Training Programs

• Training and capacity-building programs, often facilitated by local agricultural bodies and government agencies, help farmers stay updated on best practices for water and reef protection.
• Engaging with community initiatives and programs ensures farmers are equipped with the knowledge and tools to support environmental outcomes.