Researchers from the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development have begun three large-scale trials of future-focused farming systems.
The four-year field trials are part of the Western Australian Farming Systems Project, which is investigating how farming practices can increase profit, manage risk and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The project, a partnership between the Department and the Grains Research and Development Corporation, is targeting the medium and low rainfall regions of the State.
Manager of Dryland Farming Systems at the Department, Vanessa Stewart said the project aimed to increase adoption and integration of agronomic and systems innovations to increase whole-farm profitability.
“We’ve consulted with about 150 local growers and advisers to understand key issues the project will need to address,” Ms Stewart said.
“Regional Innovation Groups, made up of local growers and advisers, have been established to provide input into the research direction and system trial treatments in each region.”
Research Scientist at the Department, Martin Harries said sowing was under way at trial sites across the grainbelt at Northampton (medium rainfall), Lake Grace (medium rainfall) and Merredin (low rainfall).
“The field trials will test rotations with and without legumes in the system, different sowing times (dry versus wet) and various nitrogen rates,” Dr Harries said.
“Results from the field trials will combine with whole-farm economic modelling and greenhouse gas accounting to examine whether reducing nitrogen inputs, diversifying rotations, or changing the time of sowing can reduce financial risk and lower greenhouse gas emissions.”
