Bright yellow sprawling canola crops are now in full flower across the state, and while they’re providing beautiful backdrops for pictures, some visitors are putting them at risk.
What might seem like a quick photo opportunity is not as harmless as it looks, with many people unaware of the damage it can create for both themselves and the canola fields.
“Jumping the fence for a photo might seem harmless,” said Grain Producers SA Chief Executive Officer Brad Perry. “But it can cause crop damage and create biosecurity risks by spreading pests, diseases or weed seeds between paddocks. It can also put people in harm’s way around heavy machinery or on uneven ground.”
“Canola crops are private property and represent an important part of a grower’s livelihood,” he said.
Right now, there’s a huge ongoing concern that people are just not getting the message. Almost every day, tourists and sightseers are jumping fences, damaging crops, and putting themselves and the crops in danger.
Visitors are also being warned about chemical risks in canola crops. Farmers often spray fields with insecticides to protect the plants, and these chemicals can be highly toxic. These products include a ‘re-entry period,’ which is the minimum time that must pass before anyone can safely enter the field.
Some sprays require at least an hour before it is safe to go back into the field. People taking photos shortly after spraying could be exposed to harmful levels of chemicals.
Locals have also voiced their frustration over canola field trespassers. One person argued that the message doesn’t always reach tourists, wile another recalled seeing cars driven into a crop with people taking photos on their roofs. Grain Producers SA is putting out a stern warning that this needs to stop.
“Sightings of people taking photos in canola crops in the Barossa and near Gawler over the weekend show that this continues to be an issue every year, particularly as more canola crops begin to flower,” Brad said.
“Farmers are already under significant pressure this season with low rainfall and tight margins, and the last thing they need is preventable damage or extra risk caused by people entering their paddocks.”
But it doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy these bright yellow views, and you’re absolutely still welcome to take photos from behind private fences where it’s safe to do so.
“We want everyone to enjoy South Australia’s stunning agricultural landscapes, but that enjoyment needs to be from the roadside or a designated viewing area. It’s about respecting the people who grow our food and fibre while keeping everyone safe,” he said.
So instead of risking your own safety and opening up the potential for major crop damage, enjoy these beautiful fields from behind the fence. That way everyone wins.
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