In this section:
Andrew Craig
Senior Research Scientist, High rainfall pasture evaluation |
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Phone: +61 8 8762 9193 |
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Roles and expertise: Leader of the SouthEast Pastures Group. The SE Pastures Group has a long history of pasture species development and evaluation. The Group was initially based at Kybybolite Research Centre but relocated to Struan Research Centre 10 years ago. The principal function of the group is to improve pasture productivity and utilisation for the medium-high rainfall zone of South Australia. The Group has a successful track record of achievement and has been directly involved in the development and commercialisation of 15 new pasture cultivars over recent years. In achieving this we have established an excellent research network throughout Australia. The Group has expertise in conducting a range of research activities in the areas of plant selection, plant ecology, pasture agronomy and utilisation. This has, at times, involved the conduct of large scale grazing trials. In more recent times our efforts have concentrated on pasture legume improvement, and in particular, balansa clover – being responsible for the national development of this species which is now estimated to have been established on over two million hectares of agricultural land. The Group has access to excellent facilities and infrastructure at Kybybolite and Struan research centres, including laboratory, glasshouse and field irrigation facilities. The majority of trial work is based “on-farm”, with more than 30 trials currently under active management throughout the region. |
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Current and recent projects: The Group is presently receiving significant funding from the CRC for Dryland Salinity and we have developed considerable expertise in the evaluation of pasture species in saline environments. Our involvement with the CRC has also provided the opportunity to evaluate a number of new, exciting perennial fodder species with significant potential for the higher rainfall regions of the State. These include species such as chicory, sulla, perennial grasses and perennial legumes. We are always keen to seek out new opportunities to expand our research activities and welcome the opportunity to bring our skills base to new industries. |
