In 1990, growers in the Robertson potato growing district began to develop and adopt significant new approaches to soil conservation and land management. The adoption of these sustainable farm practices resulted in lost farming land of 15-20% due to earthworks. In order to remain viable, growers have been working with NSW Agriculture, Land, and Water Conservation and a local consultant to implement strategies to improve environmental sustainability while increasing yields. This project developed minimum tillage techniques, nutrient, irrigation, and pest & disease monitoring programs as well as sourced research information from other districts throughout Australia.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Potato – Fresh Fund