Constraint Management Plans in the Wet Tropics sugarcane industry

The Wet Tropics sugar industry faces the dual challenge of increasing productivity while adhering to strict water-quality targets aimed at reducing nutrient runoff into the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) lagoon. To address these challenges, Constraint Management Plans (CMPs) were developed as a structured, farm-specific framework for managing yield constraints and promoting sustainable farming practices. CMPs leverage diverse datasets, such as soil analyses, satellite yield mapping, elevation maps, and grower observations, to identify and prioritise constraints unique to each sugarcane farm. The development process is highly collaborative, involving growers, agronomists, and industry experts to ensure that the strategies are practical and tailored to the specific capacities of each farm business. The methodology emphasises grower engagement, enabling farmers to actively participate in identifying and addressing yield limitations through actionable, resource-efficient recommendations. By integrating scientific principles with local farming knowledge, CMPs provide a practical and scalable solution for addressing farm-specific challenges in the Wet Tropics. They complement existing frameworks, such as the Six Easy Steps (6ES) nutrient management program and the Smartcane BMP accreditation system, empowering farmers to align their practices with productivity goals and environmental objectives. Regular review and refinement of CMPs will enhance their effectiveness, supporting sustainable sugarcane production and contributing to the resilience of both the sugar industry and the GBR ecosystem.