Griffith Laboratory

CSIRO Land and Water Griffith has a well-deserved international reputation in irrigation research.

The laboratory, one of the oldest CSIRO laboratories in Australia, is conveniently placed in the middle of the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area and is within a few hours’ drive of 70% of the nation’s irrigated lands.

The regional location is ideal for maintaining awareness of the issues threatening the sustainability of irrigated agriculture. There is an appreciation of the constraints under which the irrigation sector operates as well as healthy interaction with irrigation farmers and their representatives.

There are about 40 CSIRO staff based at the laboratory, plus short-term international visitors and a variable number of students. The laboratory has a very friendly and helpful atmosphere, and a highly committed research team. 

Our researchers in the River and Irrigation Hydrology research group are developing innovative irrigation delivery applications, more productive and efficient irrigated cropping systems, and drainage technologies that help improve water demand management and the quality of return flows from irrigation.

Practical research in the field and the development and application of predictive computer tools are underpinned by socio-economic considerations to complete a rounded approach to irrigation research.

The Griffith Laboratory is well equipped with computing, laboratory and agricultural research facilities. It has the best irrigation science library in Australia and an excellent workshop where research equipment research can be constructed or modified.

Collaboration between Griffith-based researchers and people elsewhere is paramount. This includes relationships with state agencies, universities, private companies, international organisations and other CSIRO groups.

The Griffith Laboratory is also home to projects from other CSIRO Divisions including the management of Helicoverpa within CSIRO Entomology.