Silvopasture systems combine forestry plantations with grazing systems. Photo: FutureBeef

DISCOVERING how integrating trees and cattle can benefit a grazing business will be the centre of a field day held by well-known Central Queensland producers Adam and Jacynta Coffey.

The Coffeys have been participating in a Qld Department of Primary Industries and Meat & Livestock Australia program called steak ‘n wood – which is trialling forestry, or silvopasture, plantations on cattle properties across the state. Mr Coffey is on the board of Cattle Australia.

Silvopasture is a growing trend across the globe, which involves integrating grazing practices around trees that are planted for the harvest of timber.

The day will include:

• Inspecting silvopastoral systems demonstration sites incorporating trees on farm with single and mixture hardwood species; a native forest silvopastoral system that has been sustainable managed to increase tree, pasture and livestock growth rates

• See the preliminary trial results and learn about the successes and challenges
• Discuss the multiple benefits of silvopastoral systems
• Financial outcome of these systems and more

The day will also hear about the Coffeys soil carbon project, along with Cattle Australia.

• The event will be held at Boreelum Station next Wednesday at 8:30am. For more information on the field day click here.

Program