Increasing farming system profitability and longevity of benefits following soil amelioration

Research and consultant analysis indicates that amelioration of sandplain soils in the western region is highly profitable, resulting in consistent and persistent improvement in crop water use efficiency and productivity. Factors that limit adoption or benefits of soil amelioration include uncertainty about how to sustain long-term benefits, poor crop establishment and potential for erosion in the year following amelioration. This investment will identify management changes that preserve the benefits of soil amelioration and maximise profitability for growers. The research will determine the most profitable crop rotations, species choice and seedbed preparation that maintain the long term benefits of soil amelioration while managing the risks, such as wind erosion and poor crop establishment.