New resources to face fertiliser shortages
GRAINS Research and Development Corporation has published new resources for growers in response to urea shortages in Australia’s northern and southern regions. Investing in Fertiliser Storage Infrastructure is now available to read online and...
GRAINS Research and Development Corporation has published new resources for growers in response to urea shortages in Australia’s northern and southern regions.
Investing in Fertiliser Storage Infrastructure is now available to read online and download.
GRDC grower relations manager — north Vicki Green said the resource contains technical information regarding the characteristics of solid and liquid fertilisers and explains how this can influence the suitability and safety of on-farm storage.
“We’re aware the recent urea shortage has led to pressure on growers to consider how they can take greater control of their fertiliser decisions,” she said.
“This publication, created in response to issues raised via GRDC’s National Grower Network, showcases the experiences of six growers who utilise on-farm fertiliser storage for exactly that.”
GRDC is also reminding growers of the importance of fertiliser supply management and how to prevent getting caught short via update events and podcasts.
Agricultural procurement specialist Robert Dawes spoke at a recent update where he highlighted important factors when it comes to negotiating supply and managing relationships with suppliers in the current environment.
“Leading up to June, weather forecasters predicted a dry winter,” he said.
“For growers, this meant they weren’t placing orders for urea because they didn’t think they’d need it, and so suppliers weren’t contracting to importers.
“In addition, we also had a falling urea price, so it didn’t look like growers had to be in a rush to purchase product, some were happy waiting to purchase, because it didn’t look like there would be a supply risk — as was the case during the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath.”
Fertilizer Australia executive manager Stephen Annells said the northern and southern regions are especially impacted compared with western regions and will be considering actions they can take to reduce risk.
“In Western Australia this year, fertiliser suppliers estimate they have met 85 to 90 per cent of the urea requirement but it’s more challenging to estimate supply and demand in other states where it varies from location to location,” Mr Annells said.
To find out more, visit grdc.com.au/resources-and-publications.
