Birchip Cropping Group (BCG) researcher, Genevieve Clarke will lead a new research effort in 2021 looking at frost mitigation strategies for the Wimmera Mallee.
The research, which is financially supported by the Yitpi Foundation, will investigate how variety selection, sowing time and grazing may impact phenology and frost induced sterility in wheat.
Frost is a well-known risk to grain production, particularly in lower rainfall environments. An estimated $360 million is lost due to frost in the Australian grains industry annually. Given the recent frost events across the Wimmera and Mallee, this week’s funding announcement is timely and will provide growers with relevant local research.
“We’re pleased that this work will be able to be completed with funding from the Yitpi Foundation,” said BCG CEO, Fiona Best. “This work is locally relevant, and the outcomes will provide important information to our members and farmers more broadly.”
The Yipti Foundation, part of the Waite Research Precinct, was established to encourage and promote research and education in the fields of crop science, particularly in relation to the wheat industry in southern Australia; The name Yitpi is a Kaurna word for seed or soul.
BCG continues its mission of undertaking work that directly improves the viability and prosperity of Australian broadacre farmers.
For more information contact BCG at [email protected]
