The Western Australia Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has launched a new online map highlighting over 220 grains research experiments.
The interactive map, updated annually, highlights the department’s grains research trials spanning from Kununurra to Esperance.
Darshan Sharma, acting director of Grains at DPIRD, noted that the map is a valuable tool for exploring the department’s on-the-ground initiatives aimed at boosting productivity and profitability in the industry.
“These trials provide crucial insights for innovation, validation of research ideas, standardisation of known technologies tailored to specific regions and soils and extension activities to boost the profitability of WA grain growers,” said Dr Sharma.
“It features trials at DPIRD’s research facilities in Northam, Merredin, Wongan Hills, Katanning, Manjimup, Carnarvon, Geraldton and Kununurra, along with many trials on growers’ properties.
“These trials have led to agronomic gains from advances in crop genetics and improvements in agronomy and the management of weeds, pests, and diseases.”
DPIRD’s grains research covers a wide range of areas in grain production, including soil science, crop nutrition, crop protection, crop science, genetic improvement, and innovations in farming systems.
This research supports the State’s important grains industry by tackling local production challenges and improving the sustainability and profitability of Western Australian grain enterprises.
The map features DPIRD’s collaborative research efforts with external partners like the Grains Research and Development Corporation, CSIRO, universities, and grower groups.
Each trial is numbered and provides contact details, allowing stakeholders to reach out to research scientists for further information on the ongoing projects.
To view the map, visit www.agric.wa.gov.au and search for ‘2024 research trials map’