Maximising potential stocking rate through pasture management techniques
| Project start date: | 31 December 2022 |
| Project end date: | 30 July 2028 |
| Project status: | In progress |
| Livestock species: | Grass-fed Cattle, Sheep |
| Relevant regions: | Western Australia |
| Site location: | WA: Mixed farming regions |
Summary
This project aims to reverse declining stocking rates in southern Western Australia by improving pasture and livestock management. In partnership with AgPro Management and supported by MLA, it focuses on enhancing pasture quality during autumn and winter to increase profitability for mixed enterprise farmers.
Through workshops, demonstration sites, and tools like the WA Pasture Paramedic, the project will build producer confidence and skills in pasture species selection, soil health, grazing, and weed management. By July 2028, it will support 24 producer groups, improve lamb survival and pasture productivity, and promote sustainable livestock integration with cropping systems
Objectives
By 2028, this project will increase the potential stocking rate in the mixed farming regions of Western Australia by 10% through the improvement and management of pastures during the autumn/winter seasons.
OBJECTIVES:
1. Engage over 240 core producers from a minimum of 120 businesses involved in 24 producer groups in 6 areas in WA and 100 consultants across WA.
2. Engage at least 400 observer producers who will be engaged in broader awareness (category A) and short-term training (category B) activities,
3. By December 2028, 90% of core producers will achieve a 10% increase in stocking rates measured in the following locations:
a) Great Southern Wheatbelt area 6 DSE/ha
b) West Midlands/Northern area 7 DSE/ha
c) Great Southern High Rainfall area 10 DSE/ha
d) South-West area12 DSE/ha
e) South- East area 8 DSE/ha
f) Wheatbelt area 4 DSE/ha
4. At least 50% of producers will be involved in long-term workshops (category C) activities after completing progressive skills development following the workshops and focus farms.
5. All core producers will keep a simple cost-benefit analysis showing how changed practices have impacted enterprise gross margin. This will be tracked and reported annually, as well as at project completion.
6. Deliver a series of 12 producer case studies regarding producer experiences adopting best management practices to improve stocking rate. 2 case studies will be produced for each area (with relevant photos).
