Benchmarking to improve long-term carrying capacity estimates for extensive grazing properties in Queensland

Abstract

Safe carrying capacity information can assist producers in making stocking rate decisions to ensure minimal decline in land condition over the long-term. FORAGE, a modelling framework which uses the GRASP pasture growth model, spatial data, remote sensing and climate data, provides long-term carrying capacities for individual paddocks and land types for grazing properties in Queensland. Applying the framework across Queensland’s diverse grazing lands and capturing the large range of land types and climates is challenging. To overcome this challenge, we will collate on-ground data and expert-knowledge for reference properties to help validate the modelling framework and ensure the best-available safe carrying capacity information is provided.