A SURVEY of more than 600 growers has found South Australian producers are struggling with access to key chemicals paraquat and diquat, with many highlighting proposed changes which could adversely affect the grain industry.
Recent recommendations from the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) pushed for reduced paraquat and diquat application rates, but many growers believe no suitable alternatives yet exist to help manage resistant weed species.
The survey, conducted through Grain Producers SA (GPSA) found many growers were confident restricting the use of paraquat and diquat would essentially render them ineffective.
“Grain producers in South Australia rely on paraquat and diquat for weed control, and there simply aren’t viable alternatives right now,” GPSA chief executive Brad Perry said.
“Our survey shows that these chemicals are critical to keeping our farms productive and sustainable.
“Without them, the impact on grain production will be immense, with significant knock-on effects for the broader agricultural sector.”
Mr Perry said the survey showed 96 per cent of respondents believed paraquat restrictions would have a substantial negative impact on their farming operations, with 88 per cent believing the same of diquat restrictions.
“Comments from grain producers show that under the proposed restrictions, there will need to be more cultivation of the soil through tillage – a practice largely phased out decades ago, more erosion and loss of precious topsoil, reduced crop yields and profitability, greater risk of regular dust storms from paddocks and an increase in burn-offs for weed control,” he said.
“South Australian grain producers have invested significantly in sustainable farming practices over many decades, and it’s highly concerning that proposed restrictions to the use of paraquat and diquat will be make these herbicides no longer viable and undo much of that progress.”
Despite the concerns, Mr Perry said APVMA’s mandate prevents it from considering the economic consequences or whether alternatives are viable.
He said GPSA would continue to work with Grain Producers Australia and other key stakeholders for a balanced solution.