Understanding climate indicators was a key message from BCG’s Climate Expert Kate Finger, who presented BCG’s Trials Review Day held on Friday, February 23.
The senior researcher explained to the 170 plus farmers and advisers in attendance that a declaration of an El Niño, as happened last year, “did not always equal drought.”
In fact, she explained that while 56 per cent of the time the years did result in drier than average, 31 per cent declared were average and another 13 per cent were above average for Birchip (based off historical records).
“It is important that farmers understand that while there is increased risk, it does not mean it will eventuate. We want farmers to be aware of the increased likelihood to capitalise on opportunities and have a plan in place to be prepared.”
Ms Finger also implored the audience to keep this information in mind when reports of El Niño were sensationalised by the media.
“Yes, there is a higher chance however we need to be prepared not alarmed.”
Biostimulants
BCG’s Dr Yolanda Plowman’s discussion regarding biostimulants also drew interest from the crowd. Dr Plowman, who completed her PhD in the field of microbial organisms commonly used as biostimulants, urged farmers and advisers to be mindful of biostimulants. This is due, she said, to lack of regulation, claims versus evidence questions, lack of independent research and research which showed some products may introduce harmful microbes into paddocks.
Her advice was simple: “Make sure that the products you wish to use are backed by good science and remember: currently it is an industry worth billions of dollars which is currently unregulated in Australia.”
Slugs and snails
Dr Michael Nash’s engaging discussion on snail and slug management was also well received by growers grappling with the sharp increase in numbers and subsequent damage caused by slugs, and contamination due to snails.
Swan Hill mixed farmer Bradley Williamson said the talk had come at the perfect time for him to start thinking about how he was going to manage snails in the coming season.
Protein mapping
Jil Jil farmer Julie McClelland, who undertakes a considerable number of soil tests each year on her farm, said the harvest technology panel session showed promise: “I’m hoping that protein mapping will mean we can get the soil data we need without me having to do so many soil tests,” she laughed.
Local research presented by BCG staff was also a highlight. Senior Manager of Extension Kelly Angel’s visuals showing the efficacy of different herbicides on Star of Bethlehem demonstrated the importance of looking below to determine effective management of this house plant-turned weed.
Life membership
Ian and Anne McClelland and John and Robyn Ferrier were awarded life memberships of BCG at the event which was held at the Birchip Leisure Centre.
The life memberships, recognised the leadership, vision, passion and hard work each has provided BCG over four decades. In making the announcement, Vice Chair Greg Kuchel said the Birchip-based leading not-for-profit organisation may never have materialised without the contribution of these community leaders.
Service to BCG
BCG CEO Fiona Best recognised the service of Brooke Bennett and Kelly Angel for their five and ten years of service respectively: “Thank you for your expertise, leadership and dedication to helping farmers and communities be more profitable, sustainable and happy,” said Fiona.
Other topics covered on the day included farmer and adviser experiences, grid sampling at a paddock scale, silicon in wheat and lentils, long coleoptile for moisture management, crop disease research, insects in harvest weed seed control systems, vetch for risk mitigation in dry times, pulse update, Septoria and cereal disease update, and the latest cereal varieties.
Trials Review Day is a members’ only event. If you would like to become a member call the BCG office on (03) 5492 2787 or visit bcg.org.au bcg.org.au.
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This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 5 March 2024.
