Annual grass control strategies in perennial pastures
| Project start date: | 01 May 2018 |
| Project end date: | 14 October 2022 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Livestock species: | Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep, Lamb |
| Relevant regions: | Victoria |
| Site location: | South west Victoria |
Summary
The Enhanced Producer Demonstration Site (EPDS) concept was developed in 2014 as a partnership between Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA) and Agriculture Victoria. The partnership brings the benefits of integrating with Agriculture Victoria’s BestWool/BestLamb and BetterBeef network of producers and groups receive assistance from Agriculture Victoria extension staff throughout the demonstrations including monitoring, evaluation, reporting and communication.
This project comprised of two parts. Firstly, the completion of a suite of eight (Phase 1) demonstrations that commenced in 2014, and secondly, a further seven (Phase 2) demonstrations, established through an expression of interest (EOI) process that commenced in 2018 / 19.
Demonstrating the impact of various barley grass control strategies on total dry matter production and pasture composition in perennial pastures.
Progress
Barley grass is a prolific weed. While it provides early season feed, the animal health concerns late in the season are a continuing problem for producers. The aim of this project was to demonstrate methods to reduce the reliance on chemical control by investigating other options such as mechanical removal, increased competition and grazing management.
Perennial Pasture Systems (PPS) members already using barley grass control practices were targeted as site hosts and trials were set up on thirteen properties in the area. These trials were assessed for their effectiveness in barley grass control.
Success was demonstrated on sites where over sowing and weed control methods were used in combination, and where silage was made. The demonstration has provided useful information on the management of barley grass within the pasture system.
Get involved
Contact the PDS facilitators:
Tess McDougall
Tess.mcdougall@agriculture.vic.gov.au
Rob Shea
yadin@vic.chariot.net.au
