Sheep for Control of Herbicide Resistant Weeds

Summary

The group did not achieve its objectives due to environmental effects outside its control. Year one showed some increase in growth rates with different pasture species. The wethers responded to the biserrula, as it remained greener for longer due to being a deeper rooted plant. The hypothesis that ryegrass could be manipulated by grazing in a biserrula pasture compared with a subclover pasture was not supported. The difference in the pattern of feed availability between the two pasture types that was generated, was in response to the dry seasonal conditions. In year two (2003) the plots were affected by either a chemical carry over from heavy rates of glyphosphate (Roundup Xtra) applied at 2lt/ha to kill summer weeds, or from the breakdown of these weeds. This resulted in poor germination of the planted biserrula and sub clover and so the trial was carried into 2004.