Extension/Education Project Database 
PROJECTS - view record:
| Project details: | |
| ID: | 24 |
| Model: | C |
| Name: | Rural Water Use Efficiency Initiative (RWUEI) Adoption Program Queensland |
| Industry: | Cotton, grains, dairy, fruit, vegetables |
| Funder: | Queensland Government through the Department of Natural Resources and Mines. |
| Provider: | The Department of Primary Industries Queensland has provided the employment framework and support for RWUEI officers in the Cotton & Grains industries (linked to the CRC for Sustainable Cotton production) and the Dairy Industry (linked to Queensland Dairy Farmers Organisation). Queensland Fruit & Vegetables Growers Association employs the RWUEI Horticultural officers and the Bureau of Sugar Experimental Stations (BSES) employs the Sugar RWUEI field officers. |
| Abstract: |
This project is the extension arm of a total research, extension and financial incentive program aimed at improving the productivity from irrigation use on farms across a number of industries in Queensland. Field officers were contracted and trained to work with researchers and provide information, training and on-farm support to irrigators. On-farm measuring and monitoring of existing practices and benchmarking against standards were key approaches taken to encourage changes to equipment and irrigation management.
Lessons learnt - Measurement and benchmarking are useful tools in motivating producers to make changes and in evaluating the benefits of that change. - Pro-active on-farm support is critical to bringing about significant change in a short time frame. - Dedicated extension staff are needed to deal with significant issues rather than overlaying extra demands on already committed staff. - The lack of continuity of employment is a limitation in engaging and keeping to the end project staff. - Training of staff in specific technologies and extension processes related to a project is important. - Cross industry projects need effective coordination and opportunities for information and resource sharing. |
| Report: | VIEW |
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