Management for sustainable use — forage production for rangelands

Abstract

Rangeland animal farming requires a continual supply of adequate quality forage to a) sustain animal output targets, b) facilitate flexibility to vary reproductive cycle dates for continuity of offtake, c) avoid enforced sale dates and d) alleviate the need to overgraze. The integration of herbaceous and/or woody forage to supplement natural range grazing, particularly in dry season, continues to be a serious research challenge. The many environmental, physical, biological, economic and social issues involved require an interdisciplinary research approach and also that scientists must understand diverse farming systems to gain the confidence of potential users. In two main papers and 70 posters, Session B6 aims to evaluate progress and to chart future research and development strategies for improved resource use. It would be entirely naive to suggest that all of the issues raised could be captured in this truncated summary and it is hoped that it will serve to arouse interest and discussion which will in turn advance the understanding and future research outlook for the areas involved.