Pasture Variety Trial Network Auditor (2012)

Summary

The Pasture Variety Trial Network (PVTN) contributes to promoting the value of improved pastures and to the enhancement of livestock productivity and profitability across southern Australia. A total of 53 PVTN pasture trials across 18 locations registered in 2012 were audited in accordance with the PVTN Auditing and Accreditation Manual (February 2011). Only one trial required a minor Corrective Action and overall, trials were found to adhere to the requirements of the PVTN. Several ongoing challenges for trial operators, seed companies and the PVTN Program Coordinators were identified. Specifically, the PVTN guidelines should consider and incorporate flexibility to the allowable sowing times for some species aligned to the regional climatic conditions. Further, timing for the assessment of PVTN trials should also align to the optimal growth phases of a trial and consider factors such as annual or perennial growth cycles and winter active and winter dormant lines.