Field Crop & Land Management

Drought is always a worrying time for primary producers, but steps can be taken before and during the dry to minimise losses and perhaps to help others in need. A number of publications and websites with good advice have been established by industry groups and organisations. Examples include:

Agronomy after the drought - a guide to decision making in 2007 (.PDF) 566KB
Technical information provided by the Grains Industry Researchers and Technical Advisers. Coordinated and distributed by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) with contributing research from NSW DPI, Victoria DPI, SARDI, CRC Weed Management, CSIRO, and GRDC Grower Funded Groups.

The information in this publication is based on presentations and discussions at a GRDC 'Recovery After the Drought' cropping workshop run after the 2002 drought but has been updated with the latest knowledge available in the topic areas covered. It is designed to be relevant to growers cropping a wide variety of soil types in districts across NSW, Victoria and SA and contains mainly general principles and guidelines.

Cutting crops for hay (.PDF) 11KB
Information on cutting your crops for hay during a drought.

Emergency tillage to control wind erosion (.HTML) 1KB
This article provides an overview of how to design emergency tillage to slow wind speed and reduce sweeping.

Looking for seed - beyond lean years (.HTML) 3KB
Options for securing seed beyond the lean years.

Lucerne and fodder crops (.HTML) 3KB
The article evaluates some of the benefits of including lucerne and fodder crops into your farming system.

PIRSA Grains Crop and Pasture Reports 
PIRSA Grains group prepare a monthly update report on grains and pastures in South Australia.

Stay ahead even with light crops (.HTML) 2KB
Advice on maximising crop yields by ensuring combines are in good working order.

The South Australian Farmers Federation (SAFF) Feed and Seed Register (external site) provides a register of available seed, fodder and agistment.