Cattle producers in the Top End of the Northern Territory now have online access to a comprehensive manual outlining best practices for cattle and station management in their region.

The Cattle and Land Management Best Practices in the Top End Region manual has eight chapters dedicated to everything from infrastructure and station development, land management, cattle breeding, cattle management and animal health, including a specific chapter on cattle management  on Top End floodplains.

Department of Resources (DoR) Principal Pastures and Extension agronomist Arthur Cameron said the manual was a valuable tool for Top End producers.

“The manual combines practical knowledge and experience provided by Top End producers with sound scientific advice.

“It is a handy reference for most issues facing producers, with links and references so readers can research particular topics in more detail.

“The manual is a great source of material for new and experienced producers; the people involved in putting it together included Top End cattle producers and DoR technical staff with many years of experience dealing with specific issues facing producers in the Top End.

“NT producers face unique challenges, and the guide aims to assist them by providing relevant, up to date and well researched information” Mr Cameron said.

The Northern Territory cattle industry is worth an estimated $267 million a year to the Top End’s economy. Providing research assistance and technical support to ensure profitable and productive businesses is a key element of the NT Government’s Agribusiness Industry Strategy.

The manual was produced by the DoR with funding support provided by Meat and Livestock Australia. It builds on the Best Practices for the Katherine Region released in 2009.

The Cattle and Land Management Best Practices in the Top End Region manual is available in CD format and on-line by clicking here