Momentum continues for SEQ practice improvements
Momentum continues to grow in Southeast Queensland with growers across a range of commodities benefiting from two funding initiatives supporting positive on-farm practice improvements.
The Southeast Queensland (SEQ) Water Quality Program, with funding support from the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation, is walking alongside growers across the Bremer, Lockyer, and Pumicestone catchments as they reap the rewards of introducing or upgrading sediment, pesticide, and nutrient control practices on their farms.
Each initiative provides an opportunity for growers to access funding and expertise that makes it easier to implement land management, infrastructure, and practice changes that benefit farms and local waterways.
The Pineapple Seed Funding pilot, launched in 2022, has seen nearly every pineapple grower in the Pumicestone catchment benefit and participate.
Erosion control as well as optimised fertiliser and pesticide management is vital for pineapple growers, so the seed funding pilot has seen extensive works carried out to improve surface water flow improved drainage designs, and management of drainage lines on farms.
Pumicestone growers have also benefitted from exposure to new and improved fertiliser and pest control products, as well as implementation of boom spray upgrades from broadacre to precision application.
The success of the Pineapple Seed Funding pilot has led to an expanded BMP Incentive Scheme for all SEQ horticulture.
Expanded to all horticultural growers in the Bremer, Lockyer, and Pumicestone catchments, growers can access small grants to support sustainable land management and on-farm practice improvements that have links to off-farm water quality improvements.
The incentive scheme has attracted the attention of vegetable, strawberry, and tree croppers, primarily in the Bremer and Lockyer Catchments so far, with the team keen to work with as many farms across as many commodities in the eligible catchments as possible.
Why go with the BMP Incentive flow?
As well as the funding assistance, engaging with the SEQ Water Quality BMP Incentive Scheme provides access to innovative practices and expertise on the ground.
The SEQ Water Quality team comprised of Tim Wolens and Tanya Luck each have 25 years of industry experience.
They bring a fresh pair of eyes onto farms, can help growers see things from another perspective, and connect growers with the products, services, and technical knowledge needed to make their BMP projects happen.
“We’ve already seen some great applications come through around sediment control, chemical and fertiliser efficiencies, and improving soil health. It won’t be long before we see some of these projects take shape on farms,” said SEQ Water Quality Program manager Tim Wolens.
He encouraged growers within the eligible catchments to get in touch to find out more about participating in the BMP Incentive Scheme.
“We’re only a phone call away,” Tim said.
The Pineapple Seed Funding pilot concludes in June 2025
Applications for the SEQ Water Quality BMP Incentive Scheme close 30 November 2024.
The SEQ Water Quality Projects, Seed Funding and BMP Incentive Scheme, are proudly funded by the Queensland Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation.
