Research into macadamia erosion
Measuring soil erosion.
The wet summer has provided ideal conditions for macadamia researchers on the NSW north coast.
The Clean Coastal Catchments research site at Brooklet on the Alstonville plateau has received significant rainfall in January, February and March 2021.
Soil erosion is a significant concern in this region, due to the erosive red ferrosol soil, the frequency of high intensity rainfall, and the low percentage of groundcover.
In many macadamia orchards it is too dark underneath the tree canopy to maintain grass cover, so researchers are investigating alternative options for soil protection.
NSW Department of Primary Industries Soil Scientist, Justine Cox, says the growers who are using best practice techniques such as covering their soil with mulch, or pruning their trees to let in more sunlight and promote grass growth, have reaped the benefits during the 'wet season'.
The trials to reduce soil erosion and retain nutrients in macadamia orchards were established in March last year. Compost, mulch, erosion sox, and prunings from on site limb removal, are being assessed for their capacity to withstand a range of erosive forces in this high intensity rainfall region.
After carrying out soil sampling to identify changes in soil fertility and health over the previous 12 months, Justine Cox will compile an erosion management update for growers and the Fertiliser Stewardship Group network.
The Clean Coastal Catchments project is funded through the Marine Estate Management Strategy
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