The trial site at Moorilim, Victoria, it is hosted by the Riverine Plains.
To compare the impact of brown manuring versus cutting vetch for hay in relation to soil characteristics, particularly nitrogen and moisture, and subsequent crop production in a mixed farming system.
Environmental outcome: Increase diversity in cropping systems using a legume as a break crop. As an outcome reduce synthetic fertiliser use and soil health.
Economic outcome: Put numbers on the viability of a legume crop by valuing both their production output and soil inputs.
Whole paddock is sown to single crop in 2026. Soil measurements and yield, as well as imagery will be used to assess the impact of previous treatments.
Decrease risk in mixed system by increasing feed options and diversifying the break crop.
To assess the impact of grazing in a cropping rotation.
Environmental outcome: Increase diversity in annual pasture systems used as part of a cropping rotation.
Economic outcome: Provide an understanding of the financial impact grazing has on a paddock and how it fits into a rotation.
Paddock will be sown as one treatment. Crop type to be confirmed. Farmer to treat as normal paddock. Soil and yield will be taken to assess the impact of the grazing in 2025.
If utilizing an annual pasture and grazing it in any of the rotations what are the impacts?
Please see the project page on the Riverine Plains website.
Jane McInnes - jane@riverineplains.org.au
