Stomping out sediment

Abstract

The Stomping out Sediment project (SOS) was Reef Trust Phase 4 (RTPIV) funded and managed by North Queensland Dry Tropics (NQDTr) NRM group. It aims to work with grazing properties in the Bowen, Bogie, Don and East Burdekin catchments to provide innovative, practical and cost-effective options for graziers to remediate gully systems. Some properties have photographic sites showing a positive pasture response from implementing high density grazing (UHD) techniques. DAF has been contracted by NQ Dry Tropics to monitor the land condition response to UHD on two major soil types and contribute to training and extension events. The landholders, NQ Dry Tropics, DAF and consultants have selected the demonstration and study areas on three properties implementing UHD. Pasture yield, composition and land condition are monitored on UHD, ungrazed and commercially managed plots.
It can be inferred that to date the UHD implemented has not contributed to improved land condition. The data suggests a lack of difference in the pasture parameters under UHD compared to untreated areas. However, there has been an overriding influence of the good seasonal conditions. Intensive management may be required, together with wet season spelling over several years, to achieve improved soil surface and organic matter incorporation and an improvement in land condition. A better result is expected on the more fertile and resilient soil types. Prevention of gullies should be a priority and all options for control of existing gullies should be evaluated. Managing contributing sub-catchments for good land condition is a good strategy.