FARMERS and graziers in the north-west are invited to a paddock plants and weed identification workshop at Bullarah, led by senior Local Land Services officer George Truman, with Moree Plains Shire Council weed officer, Lachie Biddle.
The March 20 event, starting at 9am, will focus on farmers and graziers gaining essential knowledge about identifying and understanding the nutritional value and productivity of different paddock plants and to learn more about the grasses on which their livestock are grazing.
They will learn about plant productivity, nutritional value and key identification features.
There will also be a short presentation on the role of beneficial insects across the north-west landscape presented by north-western New South Wales node manager, Pip Jones.
Attendance registration is essential at Paddock Plants and Weed Identification Workshop
Mr Truman will provide an insight about pasture plants and weeds, and offer practical ways to identify them.
Mr Biddle will share valuable insights into weed identification, management practices, and responsibilities when dealing with invasive species.
The workshop offers landholders an opportunity to ask questions and receive tailored advice about how to best manage weeds in farming and grazing country.
Mr Truman is currently working for Local Land Services in the Natural Resource Management Team, and managing an LLS property for Biodiversity Credits.
“I have been working in pastures and grazing management for 10 years with Local Land Services and have developed an interest in identification of our native pastures and their importance in our grazing systems,” Mr Truman said.
Mr Truman undertook extensive studies at UNE and has been working in soil, pastures and agricultural systems for many years in north-western New South Wales.
“This field day will be hands-on, with farmers and graziers learning to recognise the pastures on their farms and their value in terms of production and nutritional value,” Mr Truman said.
“Our native pastures are very adaptable to our soil and landscape, and can cope with changes in climate.
“It is very important for people to recognise this, and manage them to maintain persistence, diversity and productivity,” he said.
Afterwards, workshop participants will be given a guided walk through paddocks, to put newly-acquired knowledge into practice, and identify plants and weeds directly in the field.
Morning tea will be provided, offering a chance to relax and network.
Paddock plants and weed ID workshop
When: Thursday, March 20
Where: Bullarah
Time: 9am until 12.30pm
Registration essential: Paddock Plants and Weed Identification Workshop
