Weeds and pests
A major part of caring for the land is protecting it from weeds, invasive plants and other pests. In 2006-2007, Australian farmers spent $3 billion on managing or preventing weed, pest, soil, native vegetation or water related issues.
More than $2.3 billion was spent on weed and pest management, while land and soil-related activities accounted for $649 million of total expenditure.
Pest animals damage crops, prey on livestock and native wildlife and compete for pasture. They can also cause land degradation by spreading weeds and contributing to soil erosion and stream turbidity. Meat & Livestock Australia invests in effective and humane pest animal control research, such as the rabbit calicivirus disease (RCD) and feral pig baits (Pigout, HOG-GONE).
Ongoing research and development projects
Research and development programs are underway to understand the role of biodiversity in red meat production and to protect biodiversity through weed and pest animal control strategies. Some of the programs include:
- A 3D approach to weed management (deliberation, diversity, diligence) targets the top weeds of national significance and assists land managers to tackle weeds on farms using an integrated approach and without a total reliance on herbicide chemicals
- Developing recommendations for use of fire on northern Australian properties to manage vegetation and create a more appropriate balance between woody vegetation and native pasture species
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Four years ago the Muldoons of the Northern Territory implemented cell grazing. Since then the need for herbicide has plummeted, fertilizers have been abandoned and they've seen improvements in soil health with less competition from weeds.
Read more about the Muldoons and their push for sustainable farming.
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