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BackgroundEconomically Viable Options for Retired Irrigation Land (EVORIL) was a five-year (2013-2018) research project initiated as a result of declining availability of irrigation water in the south-west Riverina region of NSW. The aim of the project was to investigate the economic feasibility and productivity of various pasture species sown on previously irrigated land that has reverted to dryland.
EVORIL provided farmers with hands on appreciation and capacity to measure critical factors in establishing, growing and managing alternative pasture species varieties through replicated trials and demonstrations on farms. These trials assessed the suitability of grasses (including native species), legumes, saltbush and other native shrubs as part of a diverse landscape mosaic. |
EVORIL found that there is no single formula applicable across the region due to variations in soil type and land use history. Therefore, the project aims to provide information to landholders to allow them to make informed choices on their pasture management systems.
Trial Site Locations
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Key Points (2013-2018)
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Over 40 types of grasses, legumes, herbs and shrubs are being trialled in nine locations for their ability to grow on a rainfall of 300mm, tolerance to a range of soil types, frost, waterlogging and persistence.
Four different strategies were examined in the trials:
1. Annuals that will grow, flower, seed and regenerate next season.
2. Annuals that will maximise growth from rainfall but require re-sowing each season.
3. Perennials, both shrubs, grasses and legumes that will survive the summer
4. Experimental species (natives and exotics) that are currently undergoing evaluation.
Research to date has indicated productivity gains compared with standard district practice. When sown as a pasture mix, EVORIL species provide a buffer against variable seasonal conditions and pest or disease incursions. However, grazing management is crucial. Pasture species should be left to set seed in the first year, with care taken not to overgraze in summer as pods may be consumed. Managed correctly these systems improve persistence, productivity, extend grazing periods and conserve ground cover, while minimising nutrient loss.
The EVORIL project has tailored strategies for weed control and grazing management in these pastures, including:
The addition of forage shrubs to the pasture system has increased diversity, providing both NRM and livestock benefits, as well as providing a tool to manage climate variability. This has implications for both primary production and NRM in low-rainfall zones throughout mid-southern Australia.
For more information about EVORIL contact Project Coordinator, Rick Ellis on 0428 372 357
Four different strategies were examined in the trials:
1. Annuals that will grow, flower, seed and regenerate next season.
2. Annuals that will maximise growth from rainfall but require re-sowing each season.
3. Perennials, both shrubs, grasses and legumes that will survive the summer
4. Experimental species (natives and exotics) that are currently undergoing evaluation.
Research to date has indicated productivity gains compared with standard district practice. When sown as a pasture mix, EVORIL species provide a buffer against variable seasonal conditions and pest or disease incursions. However, grazing management is crucial. Pasture species should be left to set seed in the first year, with care taken not to overgraze in summer as pods may be consumed. Managed correctly these systems improve persistence, productivity, extend grazing periods and conserve ground cover, while minimising nutrient loss.
The EVORIL project has tailored strategies for weed control and grazing management in these pastures, including:
- Control weeds the season before (absolute minimum)
- Re-establish grasses into the legume base once the seedbank is non-competitive. Grasses drive productivity and use nitrogen fixed by the legumes.
- Prioritise seed set in the first year and ensure stock exclusion during flowering and seed set
- Select species and appropriate management strategies to suit your system.
- Sow a diverse species mix to provide a buffer against seasonal conditions and provide an integrated approach to nutrient, pest and weed management
The addition of forage shrubs to the pasture system has increased diversity, providing both NRM and livestock benefits, as well as providing a tool to manage climate variability. This has implications for both primary production and NRM in low-rainfall zones throughout mid-southern Australia.
For more information about EVORIL contact Project Coordinator, Rick Ellis on 0428 372 357
Expression of Interests for personalised assessments
Do you have grazing paddocks that you wish were more productive?
Are you looking for a more resilient pasture system that persists across a range of seasons?
We're looking for landholders to participate in personalised assessments for dryland pasture establishment on-farm.
Are you looking for a more resilient pasture system that persists across a range of seasons?
We're looking for landholders to participate in personalised assessments for dryland pasture establishment on-farm.
Resources:
This project is a joint initiative between WMLIG and Central Murray Bestwool Bestlamb, funded by the Murray Local Land Services through the Australian Government's National Landcare Program.
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