Pesticide effects on soil microbial functions in contrasting SA soils (USA3323)

START

July 1, 2023

FINISH

June 30, 2025

Summary

The aim of this project is to understand how soil properties influence the effects of pesticides on soil health. The project team will assess six targeted pesticides in 10 contrasting South Australian broadacre cropping soils. This knowledge will deliver farmers essential information for identifying the best pesticide-soil combinations to maintain healthy soil microbial communities.

Project Participants

Casey Doolette, University of South Australia

The research

The aim of this project is to understand how soil properties influence the effects of pesticides on soil health. The project team will assess six targeted pesticides in 10 contrasting South Australian broadacre cropping soils. This knowledge will deliver farmers essential information for identifying the best pesticide-soil combinations to maintain healthy soil microbial communities.

Funding

$245,855

This project is a co-investment, with the Grains Research and Development Corporation providing 50% of the total funding.

More information

Casey Doolette
T: 08 8302 6233
E: [email protected]

Latest Research Projects

 

The SPAA 2025 Precision Ag Expo (SPA1625)

The SPAA 2025 Precision Ag Expo (SPA1625)

The 2025 SPAA Precision Ag Expo was held on 27 March 2025 in Wallaroo. This conference-style event brings together growers, researchers, agronomists, precision ag (PA) consultants and the education sector. The 2025 event explored the latest applications of PA developments in relation to soils, seeding, satellites, sensors and other tech, as well as spraying (in terms of targeted weed management).

read more
SA Mallee regional internship in farming systems and applied grains research and extension (MSF7124)

SA Mallee regional internship in farming systems and applied grains research and extension (MSF7124)

The intern will gain hands-on experience of regional research and develop an understanding of the challenges of farming in a low rainfall zone. Through mentoring by an MSF farmer member, the intern will gain insight into the practicalities of farming in the Mallee, its challenges and rewards. The intern will work on projects that have been prioritised by MSF and local farmers, such as crop rotations, amelioration, soil variability, weed management, soil moisture and risk management and business development. This project was funded through and out-of-session application in October 2024 and is a co-investment, with the SA Drought Hub providing 50% of the total funding.

read more
Mixed farming intern – Limestone Coast (MFM1125)

Mixed farming intern – Limestone Coast (MFM1125)

This project will employ an intern to build the human capacity of the grain-livestock industry, particularly in the areas of research, development and extension and drought resilience in the Limestone Coast (south east SA). This project is a co-investment, with the SA Drought Hub providing 50% of the total funding.

read more