Industries
The original First Nations peoples secured their food and clothing from the natural environment. Major changes to their way of living followed the arrival of the first settlers. Primary production developed on a more extensive scale with the adoption of an agricultural economy.
The contribution made by our grains, horticultural and livestock industries impacted the subsequent wellbeing of the state.
The extent and nature of our major industries was influenced by:
- the challenges they faced from natural impacts and market drivers
- research and development on industry competitiveness
- the need for regulating yield and quality improvements, pest and disease control, market regulation, industry adjustment and assistance packages.
Agricultural industries
The following articles describe the extensive traditional plant breeding programs at Department of Agriculture, Roseworthy College, and Waite Institute.
These include long standing herd and flock improvements in dairy, sheep breeding, wool testing and carcase evaluation, and similar programs in the cattle, pig and poultry industries.
Genetic crop improvement
Prior to the establishment of the Department of Agriculture, genetic improvement programs were primarily conducted by farmers. Learn the history of genetically modified crops and their commercialisation in South Australia.