AgForce is working with MLA to develop solutions for pasture dieback, a problem that is widespread throughout central Queensland and continues to advance up and down the coast.
The current focus is on determining the part played by the pasture mealybug in the problem – the condition is now known as ‘mealybug-infested pasture death’, or MIPD, in central Queensland.
Led by the Central Queensland Regional Council, this project will gather the experiences of producers hit by MIPD to better try and understand what is clearly a complex problem with a number of possible causes.
The ongoing research funded by MLA and the Australian Government will help producers identify – and proactively manage – MIPD on their properties.
Some of the initial ‘case studies’ collected from AgForce members will appear on the AgForce CQ Facebook page over time.
A paddock meeting was convened by Cattle President Will Wilson on 10 March to discuss the issue with MLA General Manager Jason Strong, Board member Russell Lethbridge, and Research Manager Michael Crowley.
AgForce was able to demonstrate why pasture dieback is a $2 billion problem causing up to 50 per cent loss in carrying capacity.
The meeting will help MLA plan the next round of funding for priority issues, and improve collaboration amongst researchers.
It was also attended by Biosecurity Committee Chair Ivan Naggs, CQ Council members John Baker and Mark Collins, and a number of producers affected by MIPD.
MLA’s MIPD action plan recognises AgForce as a key partner in assisting with producer demonstration sites and communicating with members on the issue.
