Understanding pasture re-sowing decisions for meat producers

Summary

Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA) and its partners developed a Feedbase Investment Plan (or FIP) in 2010. This provides a review of all aspects and relevant technologies of feedbase production and sustainability that can improve red meat production for the Southern Australian feedbase. As described in the FIP, the Southern Australian feedbase is defined as: Herbage provided by pastures, grazing crops and shrubs from sown, naturalised and native plant species within the area south of the 26 line of latitude.
This project, understanding pasture re-sowing decisions for meat producers, is focused on decisions taken in relation to improving and grazing of pastures (annual and perennial). It has a particular focus on the pasture establishment component of the feedbase. The project method has used a social research approach to better understand producers' decisions associated with whether to sow or re-sow a pasture, and the subsequent decision(s) associated with choice of species, varieties and mixtures. An in-depth understanding of decision-making processes can assist in the development of innovative ways to increase the adoption of better practices, such as improved pastures. A thorough understanding of the motivation, aspirations, limitations and risks involved in producers? decisions is essential to enable the design of meaningful research and extension projects. These insights are also valuable in planning effective programs for farmers. Despite comprehensive technical and general support information offered to meat producers already (through a range of programs), pasture re-sowing rates are evidently low.