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Applying copper sulphate to correct soil deficiencies enhances the growth of this lucerne on pasture land at Coonalpyn Downs near Keith, c. 1950

Correcting soil deficiencies

The results of the CSIRO research team led by Dr. D. S. Riceman, in the Upper South East area of South Australia provide an outstanding example of the part played by agricultural scientists in the development of Australian agriculture.

The area affected, sometimes referred to as the Ninety Mile Desert, is characterised by leached soils and depauparate, Mallee heath vegetation with no grazing value. However the climate of the area suggested that the establishment of legume-based pastures would form the basis of rural industry.

This possibility became more desirable after World War 2, when increased efforts were being made to put men on the land.

Early attempts were unsuccessful until Dr Riceman identified the primary problem as a deficiency of both copper and zinc. The photographs show the response made by Lucerne and Subterranean clover to the trace elements.

Naturally, much interest was created. The land was cheap and clearing costs were low. The AMP Society established to clear and develop a large number of properties and many businessmen took advantage of the tax laws to reduce their development costs.

The correction of trace element deficiency opened the way to a variety of management decisions regarding pastures, livestock management and cropping. And it was inevitable that the opinions of advisers would be sought, especially by those with only limited farming experience. Within a few years two Departmental officers were placed at Keith to provide a service in agronomy and animal husbandry.

(source: letter from Lex Walker to Arthur Tideman n.d. March 2007)