FFI - Enrich 2: Building the enabling knowledge and technical capacity for multi-purpose forage shrub systems

Summary

Enrich began in 2005 to explore the potential of native perennial shrubs to contribute to the feed base and natural resource management. Our particular interest was to provide new options for low-medium rainfall areas with prolonged dry periods and/or soils that are marginal for other farm enterprises such as cropping. Deep-rooted, woody perennial plants can offer a degree of resilience to difficult environments if they can be incorporated into existing pasture systems. The project has been unique as it has combined the use of Australian plants, previously overlooked for grazing systems, with management approaches that take into account the nutritional behaviours of grazing herbivores.