Is wet season spelling achievable at a whole of property scale?

Abstract

This study examined issues with adoption and implementation of wet season spelling strategies across northern Australia at the whole of property level.
Continuous grazing of pastures often leads to increased pressure on desirable species and in some instances a decline in land condition overtime. The use of wet season spelling is a highly recommended best management practice for beef producers across northern Australia. Significant effort has evolved around research to quantify the benefits of wet season spelling. These include increased ground cover, maintenance and/or improvement in land condition, improved pasture and animal production and reduction in loss of sediment.
This study reviewed current guidelines and implementation processes for wet season spelling at the whole of property level. The review concludes that insufficient processes are described in detail to facilitate successful beef enterprise adoption of this highly recommended management practice. The review also highlights gaps in research and extension materials available for beef producers, including enterprise case studies that describe sound and successful, proven adoption strategies.