Managing carbon in livestock systems: modelling greenhouse gas emissions from northern pasture systems

Summary

The SGS Pasture Model was a mechanistic biophysical pasture simulation model that has been widely used to address a range of research questions in Australia.  The model included pasture growth and utilization by grazing animals, animal metabolism and growth, water and nutrient dynamics, and options for pasture management, and fertilizer application.  Up until the date of this report, the model has been applied primarily in southern Australia, and the present project has extended the scope of the model to include northern Australia.  
The primary focus of the project has been to assess the potential for the model to be used as an integrated plant, water, nutrient, and animal, tool for assessing carbon dynamics in Australian livestock pasture systems, and understanding how they are influenced by management.  Details of model developments are presented as well as a range of simulations for 12 sites across Australia for all states and territories (except the ACT).  The biophysical structure of the model, coupled with its easy-to-use interface, makes it an ideal tool for researchers seeking strategies for greenhouse gas mitigation.