Students explore water project

AGRICULTURAL science students from Tully State High School have gained an insight into a multimillion-dollar water quality project happening in their hometown.

The Wet Tropics Major Integrated Project is working closely with banana and cane growers in the Tully and Johnstone areas to trial a range of innovative treatment systems and approaches to improve water quality.

Tully State High School teacher and agricultural science co-ordinator Warren Giffin said the excursion to Banian Creek provided students with a better understanding of water quality testing methodology and analysis, and addressed sustainability.

“It’s important for this generation to appreciate and understand why water quality and soil health is important, because they’re our future leaders,” he said.

Wet Tropics Major Integrated Project water quality project officer, Emma-Lee Harper, she was impressed with the students’ level of knowledge when demonstrating a water quality sampling technique and explaining scientific aspects of the project’s Local Scale Monitoring Program.

The project’s Tully District extension officer, Maria Ribbeck echoed praises.

“As an agronomist, it’s encouraging to see students show an interest in soil health and eager to learn more about how growers are improving their paddocks,” she said.

“A few of the students in the class were from farming families. Sharing information and knowledge is a crucial part of this project.”