Vol.3 No.1 (2008)

PERENNIAL PASTURES ON CERTIFIED ORGANIC PROPERTIES IN SOUTH EAST AUSTRALIA – A SURVEY OF FARMER PRACTICES AND AWARENESS

V.F.Burnett, S. Norng and R. Wilkinson.

Abstract: A survey of 166 organic producers located in Victoria, New South Wales and South Australia was conducted during 2005-2006 to determine the status of perennial pastures on their farms. A response rate of 71% was achieved. Survey respondents were experienced with an average of 16 years organic farming experience. Respondents had a high level of awareness of native grass species; and some had used management strategies to encourage them. Over half (55%) of respondents had established a perennial pasture since they had been farming organically, with lucerne and perennial ryegrass the most common species sown; lucerne and phalaris were the most common perennial species currently growing. These species, together with fertiliser (and legume inoculum) were typically broadcast into seed-beds, which had been cultivated to control weeds. More demonstration and evaluation of perennial species is required so that producers can make informed choices about species selection and management for their particular conditions.

Keywords: Perennial pastures, organic production, establishment, management, native pastures

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