The Riverine Plains Irrigation Discussion Group is being formed as part of a project led by the Irrigated Cropping Council which aims to link new and innovative research investments by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) with local farmer-driven groups.
“GRDC have invested in a suite of irrigation research projects across the southern irrigation zones, including projects looking to develop and validate soil amelioration and agronomic practices for irrigated grain crops as well as maximising the dollar return per megalitre of water,” explained Kate Coffey, Riverine Plains Inc Irrigation Discussion Group facilitator.
“To tie these research projects more closely with farmer needs, new farmer-driven irrigation discussion groups have been established right across the southern region to enable farmers to be more actively involved in the irrigated grains research process.
“In establishing the Riverine Plains Irrigation Discussion Group, we are aiming to help farmers learn from one-another, build new peer and industry networks, gain access to the latest research data and provide the opportunity to shape project trial work to ensure it is relevant and meeting local needs.”
The discussion group will also provide an opportunity for farmers to experiment with new techniques, research methods or develop an idea through local focus paddock trials on a local property.
The irrigation discussion group will meet four times each year to discuss agronomy and soil trials in the region and the implications of the research results at a local level. This feedback will ensure research delivered is relevant to farmers and farming businesses.
The inaugural Riverine Plains Irrigation Discussion Group meeting will be held as a breakfast meeting on Friday, August 30, at the Riverine Plains Inc office, 4/97-103 Melbourne St, Mulwala from 7.30am to 10:30am.
Speakers will include Matthew Harrison, University of Tasmania and Michael Straight, FAR Australia.
“This as an excellent opportunity for farmers with irrigatable land that are interested in improving irrigation systems and efficiency at the farm level to be involved in key research and learn more about irrigated cropping,” Kate said.
More information can be found at riverineplains.org.au or by contacting Kate Coffey, Riverine Plains Inc, kate@riverineplains.org.au or phone 03 5744 1713.
