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Rural Industries
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|| Introduction || Project listing|| Project Summaries ||
Project Summaries:Agroforestry & Farm Trees
Agroforestry has the potential to improve agricultural productivity, diversify and increase farm income, conserve land, maintain biodiversity and contribute to the national timber supply.
Given appropriate research, development and extension, agroforestry could become a widespread, profitable and sustainable system of land use.
A Joint Venture Agroforestry program was established with the Land and Water Resources R&D Corporation (LWRRDC) in 1993, and the Forest and Wood Products R&D Corporation (FWPRDC) in 1994.
The Program is managed by RIRDC. The Grains R&D Corporation (GRDC) and the Murray Darling Basin Commission (MDBC) also contribute financially to specific projects within the program.
The program has also been contracted to manage three major projects on behalf of the Department of Primary Industries and Energy (DPIE) Farm Forestry Program.
Research Highlights for 1996-97
· Staging of a national workshop to assess priority R&D and establish a key sub-program to investigate the impact of trees on hydrology and productivity.
· Identification and testing of various management strategies for integrating sheep grazing with tree growing in farming systems to reduce the need for fencing.
· Evaluation of current research and future directions of alley farming in Australia.
· Production of a design principles handbook for farmers, launched by the Minister.
· Collection of tree performance data to augment the existing MPTDAT database, and hence enable selection of appropriate tree species and provenances.
INTEGRATING TREES WITH LIVESTOCK GRAZING TO REDUCE THE NEED FOR CONVENTIONAL FENCING
Objective
· To identify and test various management strategies for integrating sheep grazing with tree growing in farming systems to reduce the need for fencing
Background
Trees have the potential to increase the sustainability and productivity of farming. However establishing trees on farmland in the presence of browsing livestock is a major challenge confronting land managers. Currently young trees are protected from grazing animals with fencing or tree guards which can be expensive. Less expensive management strategies that deter livestock from browsing young trees are required. To achieve this, a greater understanding of the factors influencing browsing of trees by sheep is necessary.
Research
There were four major components to the research. Firstly the relative palatability to sheep of a range of eucalypt and acacia species was evaluated. Secondly the ability of eucalypt species to tolerate and recover from different levels of browsing damage was determined in a simulated browsing experiment. Thirdly the potential of repellents to protect trees from browsing was studied in both field and pen experiments. Finally sheep were trained through conditioned feed aversion to avoid eating eucalypt seedlings, and the longevity and effectiveness of the aversion was assessed.
Outcome
There was significant variation in the relative palatability of trees to sheep. Of the 18 species tested in a field experiment, Eucalyptus globulus and E. melliodora were the least damaged over a six day period while E. camaldulensis, E. nitens and the acacia species sustained the greatest damage.
The effect of simulated browsing damage varied with tree species and the severity of damage. Generally browsing of the side branches and some apical tip damage in the spring of planting had no effect on tree survival or growth. Browsing damage repeated in the following autumn reduced the growth of some species. E. camaldulensis and E. melliodora were the most tolerant of browsing while E. maculata was most affected.
Repellents formulated from dog urine provided short term protection from sheep but the olfactory cue alone was not sufficient to offer longer term protection. Sheep were trained to avoid eating E. camaldulensis seedlings by offering them foliage and subsequently administering an emetic which induced mild nausea. The sheep associated eating the tree leaves with the induced nausea. The aversion was conditioned within 2-3 days and persisted for at least 3 months in the field. Should the aversion be extinguished, methods for reimposing the aversion that are relatively quick and inexpensive need to be developed.
Implications
It is possible that with careful planning and management, sheep could graze amongst young trees for limited periods with minimal tree damage. The use of conditioned food aversion offers the potential to cause a hedonic shift in palatability of the trees but further research on maintaining the aversion in the field is needed.
RIRDC Project No: DAV-80A
RESEARCHER: Philip J. Haines
ORGANISATION: Agriculture Victoria Institute for Integrated Agricultural
Development, RMB 1145 RUTHERGLEN VIC 3685
PHONE: 060 304 500 FAX: 060 304 600
DIRECT SEEDING TECHNOLOGIES FOR FARM TREE ESTABLISHMENT
Objectives
· To develop seed treatments to enhance the germination percentage and subsequent establishment of agroforestry species.
· To develop seed priming, encapsulation and inoculation procedures for selected productive clones of agroforestry species to improve their field establishment by direct seeding.
· To develop and demonstrate direct seeding techniques for trees in the field using treated seed, existing planters and appropriate weed and pest control measures.
· To conduct an economic analysis of direct seeding compared to seedling tubestock establishment costs for agroforestry.
· To prepare an information booklet detailing procedures for seed preparation, direct seeding and tree establishment as a technology transfer tool for agroforestry.
Background
The high initial cost of establishment of Eucalyptus species through the use of tubestock has led to the need to investigate direct seeding technologies as a means of reducing this cost. Direct seeding operations have generally met with low rates of success.
Research
The research consisted of a series of experiments designed to evaluate seed priming and seed coating treatments. Solutions of polyethylene glycol were successfully used to prime seeds of E. albens, E. fibrosa, E. melliodora, E. moluccana, E. polyanthemos, E. sideroxylon and E. tereticornis. In laboratory tests primed seed germinated more quickly, particularly at lower temperatures, than did non-primed control seeds. The use of solutions of KNO3 to prime seeds did not prove as effective as polyethylene glycol solutions. In greenhouse trials, primed seeds of all species, except E. albens, emerged more quickly and produced a greater or equal number of seedlings.
Field trials which were dependent on natural rainfall were not successful due to either inadequate or no rainfall within several months of direct seeding or due to the effects of heavy weed infestation. In field trials using irrigation seed priming enhanced the establishment of direct seeded E. tereticornis, but seed priming was detrimental to the establishment of E. fibrosa and E. moluccana. Irrigation treatments involving approximately seven days of daily irrigation resulted in an increase in the number of seedlings to emerge. A field evaluation of fungicidal and insecticidal seed coating treatments showed no lasting effects of any treatments. However, weed matting proved effective in the control of weeds and grasses.
Outcomes
The major outcome of this project has been the demonstration that the seed treatments which were applied to the Eucalyptus seeds were of limited effect in improving seedling establishment. Success of direct seeding was in large degree due to irrigation practices which maintained soil moisture content near field capacity for at least one week and to weed suppression through the use of weed matting.
Implications
The results obtained in this study demonstrated it is essential to remove the effects of competition for weed species for an extended period for direct seeding to be successful. Suppression of weed growth by the use of weed matting was very effective. In comparison to the costs of using tubestock for establishment, direct seeding of Eucalyptus into prepared beds coated with weed matting should prove more economical.
RIRDC Project No: UWS-3A
RESEARCHER: Dr Anthony M Haigh
ORGANISATION: School of Horticulture, University of Western Sydney, Hawkesbury
Locked Bag 1 RICHMOND NSW 2753
PHONE: 045 70 1254 FAX: 045 70 1314
Objectives
· To compile species/provenance performance data from research trials in South Australia for incorporation into the national MPTDAT database.
· To enable researchers access to this database so that improved species/provenance recommendations may be made.
Background
There has been a recent dramatic increase in tree planting by individuals and community groups. However, tree-planting projects are more effective when appropriate species and provenances (seed sources) are used. Many revegetation research trials on species and provenance performance have been established throughout Australia but results have not been available readily to other researchers and general extension staff.
Compilation of a database using information collected from such trials is one way to improve accessibility. MPTDAT (Multi-Purpose Tree Database) was developed in 1990-91 by the CSIRO Division of Forestry in conjunction with the Winrock International Forestry/Fuelwood Research and Development Project (F/FRED).
Research
An experienced scientific officer was engaged on contract to compile, collate and enter data on species performance from selected research trials around South Australia into the CSIRO MPTDAT database.
Outcomes
Data on species performance has been collected from 61 research trials and 47 sites around South Australia and forwarded to CSIRO for incorporation into the national MPTDAT database. This will give researchers wider access to species/provenance performance data and therefore improve species/provenance recommendations and future trial designs. A training seminar on MPTDAT for various interested researchers and extension staff was held at Murray Bridge. The project was also valuable for introducing the 'minimum data set' concept. This has provided a better basis for researchers to improve the consistency of site information collected from trials.
Implications
The database enables informed interpretations of quantitative growth information from which recommendations can be prepared for given site conditions. However, the MPTDAT database needs further development if it is to realise its full potential.
RIRDC Project No: PIF-1A
RESEARCHER: Peter Bulman
ORGANISATION: SA Department of Primary Industries,
GPO Box 1604 ADELAIDE SA 5001
PHONE: 08 8226 9900 FAX: 08 8226 9933
COLLECTION OF TREE PERFORMANCE DATA
Objective
· To augment the existing TREDAT/MPTDAT dataset to provide a sound basis for selection of appropriate tree species and provenances for farm plantings in south-eastern Australia.
Background
Tree planting in south-eastern Australia has become a critical issue because of its role in preventing/slowing land degradation and for its potential to diversify farm income through the provision of saleable wood and non-wood products. These benefits can only be realised if the trees planted realise their expected potential.
The main factors affecting this realisation of potential can be divided into silvicultural and genetic components. The silvicultural factors are those which affect the trees-growing environment, including site preparation, weed control, fertiliser and irrigation. Genetic factors relate to the selection of species, provenances, families or clones which are best adapted to the planting sites. The combination of good species selection with appropriate silviculture will help ensure successful plantations.
Research
Information was collected for the MPTDAT and TREDAT databases on silviculture and genetic factors affecting tree growth across south-eastern Australia.
Outcomes
This project identified some of the most important tree growth trials in south-eastern Australia. Data produced by these trials can be used at several levels as a guide to tree planting in the south-eastern Australian region. In this broadest sense, the data give a guide to species which should have the greatest chance of successful establishment in the different climatic zones. The potential productivity of a particular species, provenance or family can also be estimated if enough well-documented sites are held in the database.
Implications
The results of this work can be used to help determine the best species or provenance to use in particular sites. The lists generated by the database are not exhaustive and are limited by the species and provenances which have been used in trials and by the trials for which good data were available. The trials do not cover a wide range of soil types; this should be taken into account in using the database.
RIRDC Project No: CSF-44A
RESEARCHERS: Tim Vercoe and Bronwyn Clarke
ORGANISATION: CSIRO Forestry and Forest Products,
PO Box E4008 KINGSTON ACT 2604
PHONE: 02 6282 8211 FAX: 02 6281 8312
PUBLICATIONS: RIRDC Research Paper 96/5. (1996). Trees for South-Eastern Australia by Vercoe, T and Clarke, B.
ALLEY FARMING IN AUSTRALIA: CURRENT RESEARCH AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Objective
· To provide the joint venture agroforestry fund and research managers an up-to-date summary of past and current work on alley cropping in Australia and to suggest areas requiring further investment of research.
Background
Alley cropping has been intensively studied in tropical countries, primarily as a means of maintaining soil fertility. The technique looked promising at first but closer analysis has revealed substantial problems. Alley cropping emerged in Australia about a decade ago, driven largely by farmers. The aim was to integrate the control of wind erosion and water tables and the production of fodder with cropping.
The design and performance criteria for alley cropping in Australia are therefore substantially different from those employed overseas. While some overseas work is applicable, alley cropping research requires special treatment in Australia as it explicitly attempts to balance both issues of productivity and management of the resource base.
Research
Richard Stirzaker reviewed international experience of alley cropping (which included a week at the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry in Nairobi, Kenya) and also put together a theoretical framework for alley farming research. The focus is on understanding how trees and crops interact, the way to approach experimental work and the data required for modelling alley farming.
Ted Lefroy reviewed the commercial practice of alley farming in Australia, current research underway and economic appraisals in the Australian context. This was done through telephone interviews with over fifty researchers, extension personnel and landholders, a visit to the Murray Mallee and Lower South East of South Australia and a search of databases and bibliographies.
Outcomes
Based on the international experience in alley cropping and current work in Australia, the authors drew up strategies for future research into alley farming for Australia.
Implications
The report has clarified the research direction for major existing alley crop experiments in West Australia and the Murray Darling basin and is available for those contemplating new work in alley cropping.
RIRDC Project No: CSM-2A
| RESEARCHERS:
ORGANISATION: PHONE: |
RJ Stirzaker
CSIRO Land and Water 02 6246 5570 |
EC Lefroy
CLIMA 08 9380 2561 |
PUBLICATIONS: RIRDC Publication 97/29, (1997). Alley farming in Australia - current research and future directions.
AGROFORESTRY AND HYDROLOGY WORKSHOP
Objectives
· To cross-examine the current state of knowledge relating to the impact of trees on hydrology at the regional, catchment and farm scales.
· To define research gaps and priorities relating to the impact of trees and hydrology.
· To assist the RIRDC/LWRRDC/FWPRDC Joint Venture Agroforestry Program to develop its plan for this high priority research area.
Background
The urgent need to manage rising water tables is, and will continue to be, a major driving force for agroforestry in many parts of the country. The task is to develop high water use agroforestry systems for a range of climate, to target the catchments at greatest risk and to find the optimum balance between catchment health and tree and agricultural productivity.
Research
A workshop was held in Canberra 11-12 June 1996 and was attended by 28 scientists and managers with expertise in hydrology and agroforestry from around the country.
Outcomes
Workshop participants identified three priority research areas of equal importance:
· develop a 'catchment classification system' based on knowledge of topography, geology, salt store, climate and vegetation at the regional scale. The classification system would help identify the catchments at most risk which require urgent changes in land use. It would provide a framework for asking the right questions, and for directing data collection in more detailed on-site investigations;
· establish guidelines for designing agroforestry systems to balance catchment health with tree productivity and agricultural productivity. Once a catchment has been identified as needing reforestation, the guidelines would assist land managers to work out the area of land which must be planted, the location of plantings and suitable agroforestry designs;
· determine the productivity and sustainability of plantations in regions with shallow water tables. This is currently a growth area requiring research support. Key issues are the potential build-up of salt in the tree root zone, the role of irrigation with partially saline water and the export of salt from these plantations.
Implications
The setting of these three priorities has resulted in three commissioned projects funded by the RIRDC/LWRRDC/FWPRDC Joint Venture Agroforestry Program which address them.
RIRDC Project No: CSM-3A
RESEARCHER: Richard Stirzaker
ORGANISATION: CSIRO Land and Water, GPO Box 821,
CANBERRA ACT 2601
PHONE: 02 6246 5574 FAX: 02 6246 5560
PUBLICATIONS: Stirzaker, R., O'Connell D., and Prinsley R. (1996) Agroforestry and Hydrology: What Do We Need to Know? (1996). Report on the Agroforestry and Hydrology Workshop, 11-12 June 1996, RIRDC
AGROFORESTRY DESIGN PRINCIPLES - PRODUCTION OF A MANUAL
Objectives
· To edit, design and prepare a manual of design principles for agroforestry.
Background
Trees are deep-rooted and therefore access water-tables and recycle nutrients that are unavailable to most other forms of production. Trees also have an important influence on natural systems and biodiversity which, with good planning, can benefit the farm and region. Special consideration should be given first to the best places to plant trees in a catchment and second to the best layout of trees in the paddock, in order to improve the productivity of the farm, protect the soil and water resources and enhance the beauty and conservation value of the land.
Research
Agroforesters, foresters, hydrologists, farmers, economists and ecologists provided input to this project in a series of two workshops and through writing chapters. Contributors are now involved in ongoing research to further improve farm forestry techniques.
Outcomes
A book was produced which provides farmers and their advisers with an easy-to-use guide to the integration of trees in the rural landscape.
Design Principles for Farm Forestry provides information to help farmers decide how to maximise shade and shelter effects, the production of timber and fodder, soil and nature conservation and the overall appearance of their farm, and where to plant trees to control dryland salinity and waterlogging. The book also provides methods for determining the economics of your chosen design and explains the interaction between trees and other agricultural activities and with the environment.
It is also becoming popular as a text for secondary, vocational and tertiary education.
The principles in this book will be supported by a second volume which will cover more of the theory and detail used in arriving at the design principles and provide a more in-depth understanding of the issues.
Implications
Farmers equipped with this book will be able to make informed choices about the integration of trees on their farms so as to maximise the benefits of trees and minimise the risks associated with them.
RIRDC Project No: AAC-3A
RESEARCHER: John Fargher ORGANISATION: AACM International Pty Ltd 11-13 Bentham St Adelaide SA 5001 PHONE: 08 8212 6955 FAX: 08 8212 6061
PUBLICATIONS: Design Principles for Farm Forestry. (1997). Written collaboratively by Nick Abel, Jenny Baxter, Alex Campbell, Helen Cleugh, John Fargher, Robert Lambeck, Roslyn Prinsley, Miles Prosser, Rowan Reid, Grant Revell, Carmel Schmidt, Richard Stirzaker and Peter Thorburn. Published by the RIRDC/LWRRDC/FWPRDC Joint Venture Agroforestry Program, Canberra.
GROWING AUSTRALIAN BLACKWOOD FOR TIMBER: WORKSHOP
Objectives
· To establish the basis for a network of people researching, growing and processing blackwood.
· To review resource availability, marketing and processing of blackwood in Australia.
· To share experience regarding silvicultural options for blackwood in native forests and plantations.
· To identify research priorities, and opportunities for collaboration.
· To assess the need for any new publication(s) on blackwood and if there is a requirement to identify the nature of the content and sources of information.
Background
Blackwood (Acacia melanoxylon) occurs from Tasmania to Cape York, mainly on the coastal escarpment and tablelands but extending to coastal lowlands in the south. The wood is highly valued for furniture and veneer. The species is one of the very few in southeastern Australia which have potential to produce high quality cabinet wood. Future supplies are expected to come from both native forests and planted trees. The quality of the wood, as determined by density, colour and figure, varies greatly.
The species has been cultivated in several overseas countries, but particularly in New Zealand and South Africa. Accounts of experience in those countries are available. There is also an account of the Tasmanian experience. Research in Australia has been limited. An attempt was made in around 1950 to select and propagate trees with fiddleback grain, a highly prized feature, but the effort was too small to yield useful results. The species has been included in the ACIAR Forestry program from the early 1980s. Provenance trials have been established in Tasmania, Victoria (24 provenances), ACT, Queensland and China. Forestry Tasmania is undertaking silvicultural studies.
Research
A workshop was held at Lorne, Victoria 20-22 November 1996, attracting more than 40 participants. Presentations covered the biology, resource availability, silviculture, timber quality, uses and markets, retailing and R&D in Australia, New Zealand and elsewhere. Three discussion groups examined communication, research needs, and a mechanism to maintain contact and pursue the preceding topics.
Outcomes
The workshop established a 'Blackwood Industry Group' as a basis for ongoing, effective contact. The initial 11 members of the group are representative of major geographic areas, industry sectors and government agencies. The group aims to act as a blackwood information network and to promote blackwood research and development. A publication arising from the workshop is also planned.
Implications
The industry group that arose from this workshop will provide a focal point for the exchange of information on blackwood between growers, researchers, industrialists and marketers. This will facilitate the further development of an Australian blackwood industry.
RIRDC Project No: WS967-2
| RESEARCHERS: ORGANISATION: PHONE: |
Alan Brown CSIRO Forestry PO Box 4008 QVT ACT 2600 02 6281 8346 |
Rowan Reid University of Melbourne Dept of Forestry PARKVILLE VIC 3052 03 9344 5011 |
Last updated: 22 October1997
Copyright © RIRDC
http://www.rirdc.gov.au/pub/97comp/asf.html