Feedbase development & integration
Background:
There is high-quality R&D in a range of feedbase projects with strong links between them, however, there is scope to improve they way they are linked with the appropriate extension system in Australian dairy regions.
This includes a more formal process for regions to adopt feedbase R&D project output in real time, and ‘push back’ region-based questions. There is an opportunity to improve the effectiveness of R, D, E & E (extension) across regions nationally to fully capture value in industry.
Project objective:
Enable faster adaptation of R&D outputs to regional needs – helping to close the gap between research being carried out, and the results being taken up on dairy farms.
Project scope:
This project has a national scope. It recognises that the largest ‘market’ for almost every feedbase R&D project lies outside the region where the research project is located, yet there is no process in place to make these out-region connections.
It also aims to increase the efficiency of R&D through better grounding of current and future R&D in the commercial farm context.
This project also aims to develop underpinning capacity in biophysical and systems modelling so that any intervention or change to a farming system can be fully evaluated. Such a capacity will also provide a mechanism to inform the prioritisation of R&D.
Outcomes/benefits:
Improved uptake of feedbase R&D helps farmers improve productivity and profitability. Specific outcomes of this project include:
- Feedbase R&D projects will be closely linked with the appropriate extension delivery system operating not only in their ‘own’ region, but in the other dairy regions of Australia.
- Feedbase R&D projects take on more of a national perspective in recognition that the major market for most projects is in dairy regions other than where the research is being conducted
- Regional project development is responsive to both local and industry wide feedbase issues and priorities
- Underpinning capacity developed in biophysical and farm systems modelling
More information:
For more information, contact Dave Henry, Dairy Australia Feedbase Program Manager