Native Vegetation and Biodiversity

Native vegetation, bushland and pastures contribute significantly to the production of quality wool. Native pastures benefit wool production through providing a relatively reliable nutritional source and supply throughout the year, as well as having a high biodiversity value due to the abundant number of species present.

  • EverGraze

    EverGraze is developing new farming systems for the high rainfall zone (>550mm), that will increase wool and livestock producers’ profitability by 50% while simultaneously improving the natural resource management outcomes of improved water management, perenniality, biodiversity and soil health.

  • Grain and Graze

    Grain and Graze will increase whole farm profitability and productivity by 10% while enhancing social outcomes and natural resource conditions across the sheep-wheat zone. Grain and Graze is a research and extension program working in collaboration with farmers and regional natural resource management agencies.

Overview

Native bushland and pasture contributes to production through provision of shade and shelter for sheep, an under-storey which can be opportunistically grazed, provision of habitat for beneficial insects and birds and adds to the aesthetic value of farms.

The Native Vegetation and Biodiversity sub program of Land Water & Wool demonstrated that:

  • Native grassland biodiversity and profitability can be enhanced with strategic grazing 
  • Fertilisation rates must be managed on native pasture as it reduces grassland diversity but increases productivity.
  • Trees in the landscape are important for beneficial insects and birds. Paddock trees are also important as stepping stones for some fauna.

Contact: Renelle Jeffrey, Senior Project Officer, Sustainable Production Systems 02 9299 5155

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