Forage Trees and Shrubs in Australia: Their Current Use and Future Potential

EC Lefroy   Illustrations 72 pages Publisher: RIRDC 2002

Paperback - ISBN: 0642584389 - AU $11.00

Description  | Related Categories Description Trees and shrubs have long been considered an important source of nutrition for grazing animals in Australia, particularly in the arid and semi-arid areas with a pronounced dry season. Over the last two decades, there has been increased interest in planting forage trees and shrubs in the agricultural regions for improved animal production and environmental protection. In 1999, RIRDC commissioned a study of the commercial prospects for planted woody species in the low rainfall zones of Australia (RIRDC Publication No 99/152). The study examined commercial prospects for wood products, energy, essential oils and fodder. Trees and shrubs for fodder emerged as having promising commercial prospects. This publication surveys the current extent and use of cultivated forage trees and shrubs in Australia, the state of research and development, and the potential for expansion. It also examines the desirability, feasibility, and scope of a national fodder tree selection R&D program. This project was funded by the Joint Venture Agroforestry Program (NAP) and the Natural Heritage Trust. The NAP is supported by three R&D Corporations - Rural Industries, Land & Water Australia and Forest and Wood Products. These Corporations are funded principally by the Federal Government. This report forms part of the Agroforestry and Farm Trees R&D program, which aims to integrate sustainable and productive agroforestry within Australian farming systems. Related Categories Landlinks : Farm Trees & Forestry