This is a final research report from Hort Innovation’s historical archives. Please note that as these reports may date back as far as the 1990s, the content and recommendations within them may be superseded by more recent research.

What was it all about?

This project identified for the avocado industry the level of understanding and implementation of environmentally responsible agricultural practices among growers. It also provided complementary and contextual information relating to community attitudes and chemical residues from which to consider the results. Information was collected through surveys and interviews of 328 growers, representing around 40 per cent of the industry. Involvement in the-survey process alone has helped raise the environmental awareness of all participating growers.

Avocados are generally grown in porous soil and, where water availability allows, good groundcover is established in orchards. Together this ensures that erosion is not a significant environmental hazard associated with growing avocados in Australia. In those areas where the risk of soil erosion is higher, it is being well managed through proper drainage.