27 February 2007

Joint Media Release from NSW DPI & Murrumbidgee Irrigation

LUCERNE FARMERS REAPING THE BENEFITS FROM COURSE

As drought continues to affect stockfeed availability, many lucerne growers around Australia have ensured they make the most from their crops and resources by attending the NSW Department of Primary Industries' (DPI) PROfarm Irrigated Lucerne for Profit course.

Course presenter, NSW DPI agronomist Mary-Anne Lattimore, said with water resources becoming more limited and costly, farmers need to make every drop count.

“The most important outcomes we try to deliver are to improve not only their profitability but to improve the sustainability of the farm and the environment,” Ms Lattimore said.

According to Ms Lattimore, most irrigators won't have access to enough water to grow annual crops this season.

“Because lucerne is a perennial crop it can still produce reasonable yields with the water that is available now, and with feed running out, high quality lucerne hay is in big demand and bringing high prices and return.”

More farmers are investing in the two and a half-day course as word of mouth spreads the news of this valuable learning experience, with courses filling up quickly. DPI and Murrumbidgee Irrigation (MI) encourages anyone interested to reserve a place in the next available course April 2 - 4.

Farmers learn how to best establish the crop, lift yields, maintain the crop and produce top quality fodder for use as hay or silage.

The NSW Government-subsidised course costs $535. The good news for MI shareholders is that the course cost is fully subsidised by MIA EnviroWise Training Incentives. Phone MIA EnviroWise Implementation Officer on 6962 0200 to check your farm's eligibility before the course begins. Contact Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre, freecall 1800 628 422 for further course details.