Project overview

The expansion of cotton into Northern Australia has created new opportunities — but also new challenges at the end of the growing season. Traditionally, northern crops were mechanically destroyed or incorporated, but this process is difficult under wet-season conditions and presents logistical and biosecurity risks. 

The Northern Australia Crop Destruction project evaluated practical, environmentally responsible methods for managing cotton crop residues after harvest. The project aimed to ensure that Bollgard stewardship requirements were met while also protecting soil health and maintaining future cropping opportunities. 

Working closely with NT Farmers and local growers, the project assessed both mechanical and chemical methods of crop destruction, leading to the development of protocols suited to tropical conditions and providing a framework for future best-practice guidelines. 

Outcomes and achievements

• Evaluated chemical and mechanical destruction methods for efficiency and compliance with Bollgard stewardship
• Documented case studies and field videos showing effective methods in NT cotton systems
• Strengthened partnerships between CSD, NT Farmers, and local growers for regional sustainability. 

Project status

Northern Australia Crop Destruction was completed in 2023.

Resources

Final Report – Crop Destruction in the Northern Territory Dryland Cotton Industry