What was it all about?

This project, which ran from 2015 to 2016, was designed to give Australian vegetable growers an understanding of available and emerging irrigation practices and technologies, and to support the uptake of more efficient water practices.

The team conducted a review of current and emerging irrigation technologies as well as key management practices that had potential to maximise productive water use. Consultation was held with those involved in the vegetable industry including growers, researchers, consultants and manufacturers.

The research revealed nine areas that can be addressed to improve water efficiency:

• Drip irrigation
• Variable rate irrigation
• Soil moisture monitoring
• Automation
• Energy efficiency and cost reduction
• More technical support
• Nutrient tracking
• Better knowledge of barriers to uptake of new technology and management practices
• A holistic approach to precision technology adoption and management.

The findings were extended to growers, including through three videos (below) and 19 workshops across the country.

ACT NOW

Watch the videos on current and progressive irrigation technologies below:

• Horticulture irrigation practices with grower Jeff McSpedden
  
  
• Review of current irrigation technologies with grower Andrew Fyffe
  
  
• Available and emerging irrigation practices with grower Will Bignell