Pineapple farm enjoys the fruits of eco-efficiency

A south-east Queensland pineapple farm has made huge savings in production costs and water use, as well as significant improvements in yield and fruit quality.

With the help of the Environmental Protection Agency's ecoBiz program, family-owned Bethonga Pines at Walmuran on Brisbane's north, has implemented a comprehensive farm management system (FMS) to counteract the effects drought and long-term use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides have had on production and fruit quality.

Owner Gavin Robinson said that the FMS would deliver a 50% reduction in water use, an annual saving of around $90,000 on chemical fertilisers and pesticides, and a 50% increase in production.

"The result is not only higher yield, but a better quality fruit," Gavin said.

A central part of the FMS, and key to the huge water savings, is the introduction of drip irrigation as an alternative to overhead irrigation.

Mr Robinson said the trickle irrigation was only able to be introduced once they had successfully improved the health of the farm's soil, which had declined over the years due to long-term use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

"By using organic compost in place of chemical fertilisers, and monitoring the condition of the soil, we made some big improvements which in turn reduced the amount of water needed, as the healthier soil retains water much better," Gavin said.

The healthier soil also means stronger plants and less need for pesticides, delivering additional cost savings.

"The end result is that everybody wins. We have a more productive farm with better yields, our customers are getting a better quality fruit, and it's all being done with the environment in mind," Mr Robinson said.

Mr Robinson said the EPA's ecoBiz program has provided a process for understanding Bethonga's cost structures.

"Our experience with ecoBiz has been beneficial. It has really given structure to determine where we want to go," he said.

The Environmental Protection Agency's John Quinn, Director Sustainable Industries Program Branch, said the adaptation of the trickle irrigation to pineapple farming was a significant step forward for the industry.

"The hope is that this project will stimulate interest among other Queensland horticulturists who may also take advantage of the efficiencies that can be achieved," Mr Quinn said.