Making better fertiliser decisions for grazed pastures in Australia

Product Information

Australian grazing industries are facing increasing challenges. There is continual pressure to increase efficiency and productivity, while at the same time there is mounting scrutiny of the impact of grazing systems on the environment.

Most Australian soils are deficient in plant nutrients, and therefore fertiliser is a major input on farms, which underpins pasture, livestock and milk production. The benefits of fertilising pastures include increased pasture growth, increased soil nutrient cycling and structural stability, reduced erosion and increased soil water use which lowers recharge to the water table.

However, nutrient losses from our pasture and animal systems can lead to nutrient enrichment of waterways, soil acidification and higher levels of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

The Better Fertiliser Decisions Project will provide improved data and tools for farmers and their advisors which will assist them to maximise production and minimise nutrient losses to the environment.