Soil research trials to help Territory growers
The NT Government’s Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), in partnership with The University of Queensland (UQ), is undertaking a four-year research trial with the potential to revolutionise farming practices in the Territory.
Commencing in December 2024, the soil research trials are being conducted across 6 trial sites in the Top End, Barkly, and Central Australia regions.
Territory soils contain minimal organic matter and are mostly composed of sandy surfaces and clay subsoils, resulting in low fertility and an increased risk of water erosion. Surface crusting also impedes seed growth and crop productivity.
Through innovative soil management and climate-smart agriculture approaches, the project aims to address these critical soil health challenges faced by Territory growers, implement climate-smart agriculture practices, and improve soil management across the NT.
The project will apply innovative and scientifically tested soil amelioration techniques that can be readily adopted by farmers across different agricultural regions in the Northern Territory.
DAF’s Acting Senior Director Agriculture, Muhammad Sohail Mazhar, said farmer-led demonstration sites across Top End farms in Katherine, and Douglas Daly regions, as well as the Centrefarm Aboriginal Horticulture Limited trial site at Ali Curung, are key to the trial’s success.
'Enhancing awareness, knowledge, and skills in implementing best climate-smart sustainable agriculture practices for the Territory will positively impact the Territory’s agricultural sector,' Mr Mazhar said.
'We hope the trials and the research empower Territory growers and community members to effectively manage soil health and enhance the NT’s agricultural productivity.'
UQ’s School of Agriculture and Food Sustainability researcher Dr Yash Dang added that the conditions of NT soils create significant risks from water erosion, particularly during intense rainfall events, while surface crusting impedes crop productivity.
'From surveys with NT producers, we know they are seeking comprehensive knowledge of soil management practices, highlighting the need for improved research, development, and extension efforts,' Dr Dang said.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Plant Industries team undertakes research trials to benefit all NT growers, with results shared with industry to ensure the long-term sustainable growth of the Territory’s agriculture sector.
The project is funded by the Australian Government through the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program, with DAF and UQ leading the research and Centrefarm Aboriginal Horticulture Ltd and local growers providing industry expertise.
