Opportunity for suppliers of automated irrigation equipment
NQ Dry Tropics’ Burdekin Tailored Automation project will help growers address inefficient irrigation regimes, one of the most significant causes of ballooning input costs and nutrient and pesticide loss.
The project aims to encourage and assist growers to adopt infrastructure and methodology in irrigation to minimise water loss through surface run-off and deep drainage.
By delivering the amount of water the crop needs, growers could see an uptick in production by eliminating over-watering causing issues like waterlogged roots and lodged cane.
Removing excess water from the system will reduce growers water and energy costs, therfore improving their profitability and, at the same time, reduce the risk of nutrients and pesticide from entering local waterways and, eventually, the Great Barrier Reef.
The project will offer participating growers a pre-approved list of irrigation automation suppliers from which to choose.
A subsidy is available to growers who, having engaged a prequalified supplier to design and install automation equipment, can achieve verified water use efficiency improvements.
As a supplier, you must be on that list to participate.
Contact Project Manager Teagan Morris (E: teagan.morris@nqdrytropics.com.au) to request an EOI kit. Hurry, the EOI closes on 13 March.
The Burdekin Tailored Automation project is funded through the Australian Government’s $1.2 billion Reef Protection and Restoration Package.
