Can we initiate a Green Revolution?
R.G. Iyer
The idea is quite impressive and we need direct our efforts towards right methods, right people and right time. With prudent and persistent efforts, this concept can be successfully implemented.
A series of innovative trials are also taking place at Piccadilly Park, designed to mimic and 'kick start' some of the
rainforest's natural answers to pest control.
"We prefer not to use any
rat poisons and have installed six Barn Owl boxes to provide nesting locations together with approximately 30 bamboo pole roosts in locations where rat habitat is prolific."
Also on trial are two large metal cone Rat Traps as well as four Micro Bat boxes to attract insectivorous bats. The aim,
says Rex, is to establish a colony of micro bats to help control moths and other insects that proliferate about the orchard during the evenings, including Nut borer and Fruit Spotting Bug.
Since starting an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program last season, monthly bug checking is now carried out. "Some maca growers don't use the IPM method and
spray automatically at least four times during the nut production season," says Rex.
"We have only done one total blanket spray at the beginning of last season, so out of a possible eight spray applications over two fruiting seasons, our spraying is down by over 80%."
"Less spraying has allowed our beneficial insect numbers to increase steadily."
Owls, carpet snakes and beneficial insects are quick to set up residence in the rainforest, say the
farmers.
"There is nothing better than watching the
wildlife as you work," says Ken Dory, whose family grows about 250 acres of macadamias on a total farm area of 1600 acres.
Neil Sowerby is another farmer enjoying the return of wildlife to his 27-hectare property, located in Brooklet. "I believe there is a real place for rainforest plantings along creeks and rivers adjoining
macadamia plantations," says Neil.
"This provides for bank stability while acting as a buffer for pesticide applied to the macadamia plantation."
But Neil admits his main motivation is to help a variety of native species establish and thrive. At the same time, he's noticing how much visitors enjoy the restored areas.
"I am sure that the areas of rainforest will increase the capital value of the property," he says.
Ken Dory would agree. "A sales brochure that just has humpteen trees is not near as impressive as humpteen trees, rainforest and creek with lots of wildlife," he says.
And the same goes for Piccadilly Park. "We believe that the Creek meandering through the re-established planting will be our greatest asset," says Rex Harris.
When you talk to these farmers, you can't help but feel inspired - and only a handful of
the benefits they reported have been listed here. It seems macadamias and rainforest were made for one another. Or should that be macadamia farmers and rainforest?
What these farmers share is a deep sense of appreciation for the intrinsic value and natural beauty of the rainforest; a trait otherwise known as "a beautiful mind".
The recent coming together of the Australian Macadamia Society, Rous Water and
So, go ahead and take steps to initiate green revolution. Even a little effort will have great influence.
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