Soil water repellency (SWR) is a major constraint on cropping and grazing in Western Australia (WA), costing the industry up to $AU 300 M annually. Plant derived organic matter in conjunction with soil texture are responsible for the induction of SWR but the severity varies with vegetation type. This project will investigate the influence of crop selection and soil properties on SWR in agricultural regions of WA. Soils will be characterised to provide an initial indication of the potential for different crops to influence SWR severity in the subsequent season. Sampling methodologies will be refined to streamline data collection and processing methods developed to enhance understanding of SWR at both macro and micro scales.

Laboratory-based experiments will be complemented by analysis of field soils to identify how changes in soil properties with season and crop impact soil water repellency and water infiltration. Working as part of a larger funded project, you will also engage with academic and industry partners, to provide data for predictive modelling of SWR and optimised amelioration methods.
You will be based at Murdoch University and collaborate with our academic partners including The University of Queensland, The University of Newcastle, The University of Adelaide and Leibniz University Hannover.