AGRIBUSINESS

Irrigation research needs farmer input

The CSIRO is seeking input from Australian irrigators to help with drought management.

Staff writer

This article is 4 years old. Images might not display.

The CSIRO wants to interview a broad range of irrigators for the research to help with drought management before, after and during dry times.

Dr Rose Brodrick, a senior research scientist with the CSIRO's Agriculture and Food team, said they are looking to speak to a diverse cross section of the irrigation sector from all states in Australia that have experienced drought.

"We know that during the millennium drought, water allocations dropped by two-thirds. But incomes for irrigators only dropped 20 per cent," Brodrick said.

"Part of that success is certainly higher commodity prices. But we also know that farmers changed their crop types, engaged in only partial irrigation, or changed water sources."

Some crops were hit harder than others. Two million fewer hectares were irrigated due to drought conditions in 2018-19. Cotton production declined by 53 per cent, rice by 90 per cent, sugarcane by 13 per cent, and irrigated pastures by 18 per cent.

"It's an under-explored area of research. We're looking to talk to irrigators across Australia to better understand what worked and didn't work for them. Especially with the most recent drought still current or fresh in memory," she said.

"The implications of this work extend well beyond the farm gate. Many regional communities rely on a strong agricultural sector for their livelihoods. And the rest of the community depends on the food it produces."

If you're an irrigator and want to be involved in the study, please contact Rose Brodrick via https://people.csiro.au/B/R/Rose-Brodrick.

The study is part of the CSIRO's work to develop a mission to improve Australia's drought resilience.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the farming sector, brought to you by the Kondinin team.

A growing series of reports, each focused on a key discussion point for the farming sector, brought to you by the Kondinin team.

editions

Research Report: Sealable Storage Options (August 2025)

Kondinin Group researchers in collaboration with the GRDC Grain storage extension team test dozens of gas-tight sealable grain storages to Australian Standard AS2628-2010 identifying best and worst features in the ultimate grain storage buyers guide.

editions

Research Report: Cordless Impact Wrenches (July 2025)

Six battery-powered impact wrenches were bench tested in this month's Research Report, focusing on their ability to get nuts done up and undone.

editions

Research Report: Mouse Bait Applications (June 2025)

Mice remain a significant issue for cropping regions and the June Research Report, supported by an investment from the Grains Research and Development Corporation, brings together the latest research and practical recommendations for bait spreading and machinery performance to help growers improve mouse control strategies.

editions

Research Report: Farm Labour (May 2025)

Farm labour, whether temporary, casual, contract or permanent staff, is an essential part of agriculture. This Research Report provides insights to help better source and manage one of the farm’s most valuable assets – its people.