DAF principal agricultural economist Tim Moravek explained that the Improved Practices Catalogue summarises information contained in various reports and studies.

“The catalogue is a valuable resource for industry, providing a collection of information on practices to prevent degradation of land condition, or to improve land condition” said Tim.

“We have put this catalogue together to provide a summary of the latest information on practices that will improve land condition, environmental outcomes, and business profitability and productivity.”

The catalogue is unique in that it also provides examples of specific costs (and benefits) of undertaking certain actions, for example, in relation to stocking rates, addressing gullies and improving the condition of land.

As well as providing information on how to assess land condition, the catalogue provides links to a range of tools that are currently available to assist graziers throughout Queensland and northern Australia.  Practical examples of their application in the Burdekin and Fitzroy catchments are also included.

DAF extension officer Kate Brown commented that the catalogue is a great resource for landholders trying to gain an appreciation of different methods to improve grazing lands.

“It provides a summary of all the information in one place. It also provides links to studies that demonstrate the testing methods and tools. For example, results from trials of land rehabilitation actions are presented in terms of the increase in dry matter or reduction in sediment loss, and the cost per hectare or kilometre and the return on the investment,” she said.

Source: Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries. The Grazing Improved Practices Catalogue is now available.