FARMERS in low and medium rainfall areas could receive a boost to average farm profits by 10 per cent and halve economic risk simply by turning to legumes, thanks to $5.5 million in federal government funding awarded to the GRDC.
Agriculture and Water Resources Minister Barnaby Joyce said the government was contributing the funds to the project under the Rural R&D for Profit program, which supports R&D projects that deliver genuine benefits at the farmgate.
“The GRDC will collaborate with seven partner organisations on this $16m project to determine how new legume varieties, together with innovative management techniques, can improve profits for mixed farms (cropping and livestock) in low and medium rainfall areas,” he said.
“The new legume varieties reduce nitrogen use, increase soil fertility, reduce weeds and diseases and are a quality source of livestock feed, all contributing to a better bottom line for farmers.”
Member for Durack Melissa Price announced the funding boost while opening ABARES’ Kununurra Regional Outlook Conference in WA.
“The project will be trialled on farms across WA, Vic, southern NSW and SA, and will develop whole farm economic modelling to give farmers a clear understanding of what these new crop varieties and management practices could deliver to their business,” she said.
“The new legume varieties reduce nitrogen use, increase soil fertility, reduce weeds and diseases and are a quality source of livestock feed – all contributing to a better bottom line for farmers.
“Grain, meat and wool producers could reap significant benefits, with the project expected to boost average farm profits by 10pc and halve economic risk.”
Legumes have important roles in farming systems, reducing cereal diseases, providing weed management options and contributing nitrogen.
