Full Name: GRDC Managing and Mitigating Dry Saline Soils (Magnesia Patches) in South Australia
Funding Body: Grains Research & Development Corporation (GRDC)
Duration: 2026 – 2028
Project Lead: AIR EP
Background: Dry saline soils, often referred to locally as magnesia patches, are a challenging and growing issue for cropping farmers across South Australia. These bare or patchy areas can have poor crop establishment, reduced growth and ongoing productivity losses. During hot, dry conditions, salts can move from the subsoil towards the soil surface, where they accumulate and make it increasingly difficult for crops to establish. Maintaining groundcover is an important management principle, as it can reduce evaporation and help slow the movement of salts to the surface.
UNFS is involved in a three-year GRDC-funded project investigating the scale and economic impact of dry saline soils across South Australia. The project builds on previous work by the Nelshaby Ag Bureau and Stefan Schmitt at the Johns’ property.
UNFS trial activities are investigating options such as sand and mineral mulch, straw and organic matter, strategic sowing approaches, salt-tolerant crop varieties and maintaining groundcover.
The project will assess how different strategies perform across seasons, soil types and farming systems, considering crop establishment, groundcover, soil salinity, biomass and yield, as well as practicality and return on investment. Findings will be shared with farmers and advisers through crop walks, case studies, articles, discussion groups and other extension activities.
Contact: Rachel Trengove, UNFS Program Manager
