Project Bluewater 2

(Part of the Lower Burdekin Water Quality Program delivered by Farmacist Pty Ltd.)

Grower Joe Quagliata, left, with Farmacist Project Officer Chris Doblo.

JOE QUAGLIATA

He accessed a range of support, including a tailored pesticide management plan, spray rig assessment and calibrations, and assistance with recording application data, to comply with legal requirements.

Joe said the advice received, combined with the results of strip trials, gave him the confidence to simplify his pesticide mix from several different chemicals down to one.

“I had the opportunity to learn more about the chemicals I was using, and how to apply them properly,” Joe said.

“I do believe I’ve gained a lot more knowledge about my farming.”

Farmacist’s Chris Doblo said although the window for farmers to treat their crops was relatively short, it wasn’t necessary to apply extra pesticide “just in case.”

“Farmers are often advised to use brews that have six or seven chemicals in one tank for that one spray application,” Chris said.

“Instead of throwing the kitchen sink at the problem in the hope something will stick, we have found that getting the chemistry and application right can achieve positive water quality outcomes without negative effects on yields or input costs.

“The pesticide Joe now uses sticks to organic matter and is highly unlikely to reach the water table, so we have greatly reduced the water quality risk.”

Joe said being part of the project had benefited his business and said there were many other Lower Burdekin farmers like him on a similar path.

“I am spending less money on pesticides because of the trials,” he said.

“I do believe attitudes have changed.

“A lot of people are more wary of costs now, so they’ve got to start adopting these changes, otherwise they’re going to get left behind and be out of pocket. It’s about looking at ways to save money but still be productive at the same time.”