bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of fertility level on the yield of some native perennial grasses on the North-West Slopes, New South Wales.
Authors: Lodge GM
Published: December 2005

The effect of fertility on the yields of native perennial grasses was investigated in pot culture and field experiments. Yields of six native perennial grasses and Paspalum dilatatum Poir were determined in the glasshouse at five levels of applied phosphorus (P), sulphur (S) and nitrogen (N) and in the field the biomass of individual tussocks of eight native grasses was compared. In pot culture the maximum yields of the native perennial grasses with P, S and N applied were 15 to 75% lower than those of P. dilatatum. Within the native grasses there were significant yield differences: Bothriochloa macra (Steud) S.T. Blake, Chloris truncata R.Br. and Dichanthium sericeum (R. Br.) Camus yielded up to twice as much dry matter as either Aristida ramosa R.Br., Sporobolus elongatus R.Br. or Eragrostis leptostachya Steud. These data indicate that P, S and N are all essential for maximum yield of some native grasses, and large imbalances in the level of these nutrients resulted in seedling mortalities in most native grasses.
Population decline and socio-economic adjustments in the central Poplar Box (Eucalyptus populnea) Lands: Responses to changes in the grazing industry.
Authors: Young MD
Published: December 2005

The poplar box lands which are threatened by shrub regrowth and increase produce approximately 1% of Australia's agri- cultural production and represent 3% of her grazing industry. The population of most of the region's towns and all the rural areas has declined over the last 10 years in response to adjustments made by the grazing industry. It is probable that the shrub problem has exacerbated this decline. The implications of this decline are explained and related to the socioeconomic structu~e of the region. It is suggested that the depopulation of these lands will continue for some years.
Fire in the Mallee Shrublands of Western New South Wales.
Authors: Noble JC , Smith AW , Leslie HW
Published: December 2005

This article describes the effects of the 1974175 wildfires on the mallee vegetation in the Western Division of New South
Wales using two properties as case studies. The management implications arising from these experiences are described in some detail,
particularly the potential for some form of management based on periodic prescribed burning to promote herbage productivity and
also to reduce any future wildfire hazard. The need for appropriate research to be undertaken in this field is also discussed.
Reproductive Development and Seedling Establishment of Aristida ramosa R.Br. in Northern New South Wales.
Authors: Harradine AR , Whalley RDB
Published: December 2005

The reproductive development and seedling recruitment of Aristida rarnosa R.Br. \vas studied under field conditions at six sites on the Northern Tablelands and Northwestern Slopes of New South Wales. A. rarnosu is an undesirable species in pastures because of its low palatability and the propensity of its seeds for causing fleece contamination and mechanical injury to stock. All tillers ofA. vanlosa plants appear to be potentially reproductive and the extensive tiller branching means that each tiller has a high probability of completing the reproductive cycle. Individual plants, therefore, have a high potential for seed production. 'The majority of the seed production occurred in March averaged over all sis sites. Seedlings appeared in each one of the 20 months of observation when the results from all sites were added together, with the majority of seedlings appearing in the spring and autumn. Autumn seedlings had the greatest chance of becoming established at the lower, more western sites while spring seedlings survived best on the Tablelands. The results are discussed with respect to devising pasture management strategies aimed at reducing the abundance of A. wrnosa.
The digestion of Mulga Nettle (Halorhagis odontocarpa) by sheep.
Authors: McMeniman NP , Beale IF , Murphy GM
Published: December 2005

Sheep cannulated in the rumen and abomasum were fed a diet of fresh mulga nettle (Halorhagis odontocarpa) and measurements of organic matter and nitrogen digestion in the rumen were obtained. Of the nitrogen ingested by the fistulated sheep 9.0 � 4.34% escaped digestion in the rumen.
On animal numbers and observation intervals for characterizing sheep activity.
Authors: Taylor JA , Hedges DA , Robinson GG
Published: December 2005

A study was made of the effects of individual differences between sheep and of increasing the interval between observations
on estimates of flock activity patterns.
An interval of ten minutes or less between observations gave a precise estimate of the relatively infrequent activity
states. The activity patterns of individual sheep were markedly different and indicated that an increase in the number of animals
observed would lead to a considerably greater increase in the reliability of estimates than an increase in the frequency of
observation.
Botanical and chemical components of the diet and liveweight change in cattle on semi-desert rangeland in central Australia.
Authors: Squires VR , Siebert BD
Published: December 2005

A study was made of cattle grazing three plant communities in a 40 ha area of semi-arid rangeland in central Australia after the opening summer rains. The botanical and chemical composition of the diet selected was examined in relation to the site of grazing and the growth of the animals. Site af grazing and liveweight change in 12 Shorthorn yearling steers were recorded at two-week intervals for 24 weeks. Simultaneously diet samples were collected from a group of four similar cattle which had established oeso- phageal fistulas. The highest liveweight gains (1.2 kg per head per day) were recorded at times when green grass and forb species made up most of the diet. At such times there were peak levels of nitrogen and digestible organic matter in the diet and minimum levels of cell wall constituents. Faecal nitrogen showed a similar pattern to dietary nitrogen. Mean rate of liveweight gain shown by the cattle on these native rangelands over 126 days of growth was 0.79 kg per head per day and over the entire experimental period 0.6 kg per head per day. These gains are quite high and are discussed in terms of the digestible energy available to grazing cattle. Comparisons are made between this arid zone situation and that of native and improved pastures in humid tropical and temperate areas. The relationships between nutrients in the diet, or faecal nitrogen, and the liveweight change of cattle provided a means of determining the quality of the forage available and/or the degree of liveweight change of range land cattle.
A population model for Noogoora Burr (Xanthium occidentale).
Authors: Martin RJ , Carnahan JA
Published: December 2005

Noogoora burr (Xanthium occidentale), an annual species, is an important weed of sheep grazing lands in eastern Australia. This paper describes a model of Noogoora bun population dynamics which enables alternative management and control procedures to be simulated. The model is based on a two-phase life cycle with a long-lived overlapping population of seeds and short-lived non- overlapping populations of plants. The model takes into account changes in soil seed reserves due to germination, decay and dispersal. Density dependent processes affecting seed production were incorporated by using Shinozaki's reciprocal yield equation and measure- ments were made of seed losses due to granivory by birds and mice. Simple rainfall records were used to derive the model which was used to predict changes in seed populations in various environments. Theoretical seed populations were close to those actually observed. The model was also used to predict how particular control measures might affect population densities and the types of organisms which might be appropriate for biological control of the weed. Biological control appears to be the only possible means of controlling the large scale infestations of Noogoora burr in semi- arid areas where landholders have abandoned conventional control techniques.
The effect of prior history of superphosphate application and stocking rate on faecal and nutrient distribution on grazed natural pastures.
Authors: Robinson GG , Whaley RDB , Taylor JA
Published: December 2005

Soil samples and sheep faeces were collected from sites which were systematically distributed within paddocks in a long-term grazing trial on temperate rangeland on the Northern Tablelands of New South Wales. The soil samples were analysed by standard techniques for a range of plant nutrients. Most of the plant nutrients examined accumulated strongly in the sheep camp areas. The rate of superphosphate application affected the distribution of plant nutrients and stocking rate affected faecal distribution. It was concluded that both these factors could affect both production and composition of grazed natural pastures.
The operation and reliability of urea dispensers to supplement sheep via drinking water.
Authors: Stephenson RGA
Published: December 2005

Three urea dispenser designs were evaluated in terms of administering accurate and uniform amounts of urea into trough water. The uniformity of urea concentration in troughs at different times of the day during summer was also investigated. The effect of urea intake (c. 8 g per head daily) on the concentration of ammonia in rumen liquo~ was determined by measuring the concentration before and after ewes drank from a supplemented trough. The uniform (6.4 to 8.3 g per head daily) and compulsory supplementation of urea per medium of the drinking water is a practical consideration in semi-arid Merino districts where water troughs make up a large proportion of existing water facilities. The ammonia concentrations (c. 10 mg%) of supplemented ewes suggest that urea provided sufficient nitrogen to ensure maximum rumen function. The slow decrease in post supplementation concentration of ammonia indicates the usefulness of the extra nitrogen intake to sheep grazing mature pastures. The potential for using the water medication concept for other husbandry procedures is also high- lighted.
Vegetation management of Chenopod rangelands in South Australia
Authors: Lange RT , Nicolson AD , Nicolson DA
Published: December 2005

In 1896 the leading South Australian pastoralist Peter Waite specified how the grazing of sheep on chenopod shrublands in South Australia should, in his opinion, be managed. In 1919 George Nicolson put most of Waite's specification into practice on Roopena station near Whyalla, South Australia. The present paper reproduces Waite's original article and then reviews six decades of Nicolson experience with the principles. The principles involve the close subdivision of the shrubland into small paddocks (2000 ha or less), each with permanent water, flock sizes limited on any water to 350 sheep and preferably only 250, and overall hght stocking to about 6 ha per sheep. These features aim towards a profitable and stable pastoralism with preservation of the shrubland and no destocking requirements during drought. The Nicolson experience has demonstrated the advantages of this method with profitable pastoralism, stable stocking rates even though record droughts occurred, and very well preserved shrublands.
The effect of tracked vehicles on soil strength and micro-relief of a calcareous earth (Gc1.12) North of Woomera, South Australia.
Authors: Braunack MV
Published: December 2005

Changes in soil strength and surface micro-relief were measured in a calcareous earth (Gc. 1.12) at a site north of Woomera, before and after the passage of a tracked vehicle. The passage of a tracked vehicle resulted in a reduction of ?oil strength and the formation of ruts. The degree of change depended on the number of vehicle passes and whether the vehicle was travelling in a straight line or turning. Implications for erosion are discussed.
Soil mulches and sprayed coatings and seed washing to aid Chenopod establishment on saline soil.
Authors: Malcolm CV , Malcolm CV , Swaan TC , Swaan TC
Published: December 2005

Three field experiments were conducted on saline sites to compare vermiculite and 'Compeat' mulches and sprayed latex or bituminous coatings as coverings for seed placed on soil in a 'V' shaped niche. Chenopod fruits were washed in water to remove germination inhibitors before planting. The effectiveness of the treatments were assessed by counting seedling emergence and survival. Black pigmented latex and bituminous emulsion coatings gave significant improvements in emergence and survival on Atriplex spp. and Maireana brevifolia seedlings over 10 months. Bituminous emulsion stabilized the soil in the niche better than lattices, especially at high dilutions. Seed washing doubled emergence of Atriplex amnicola (river saltbush) if used in combination with a mulch. Vermiculite gave a marked increase in emergence and survival of seedlings of river saltbush and was significantly better than 'Compeat'. Low temperatures and high soil salinities were postulated as possible causes of reduced emergence on saline sites.
Prospects for land use planning in arid Australia.
Authors: Cocks KD , Parvey C
Published: December 2005

This paper describes the types of controls available to Australian land use planners, along with a brief survey of current issues in the use and management of the arid zone. The authors discuss possible roles for each of the four main types of available controls (zoning, site and management plans, performance standards and project impact assessment) in the arid zone. They conclude that performance standards and project impact assessment procedures are the controls most likely to prove useful in the management of the arid zone.
Some economic and social factors affecting the cattle industry in the Gulf Area of the Northern Territory - Results of the 1982 Cattle Industry Survey.
Authors: Michell VJ
Published: December 2005

The Gulf District of the Northern Territory is one of Australia's most remote cattle-growing areas. The national brucellosis and tuberculosis eradication policy is forcing management to change from the traditional hunting of cattle on unfenced areas to property development and improved animal husbandry practices. In 1982 only 45% of properties were actively participating in the BTB eradication programme. The paper describes the area and looks at the effect of development on a number of economic parameters, as well as the effect of these parameters on operating costs and returns. The development of stations is related to higher stocking rates and total numbers of stock. Costs per head decrease and turnoff and branding rates tend to increase with development. However stations had to go heavily into debt to achieve this development. Only 32% of stations covered their operating costs in 1982; although these stations were less developed they were also smaller, owner- managed stations employing less labour.
Vegetation changes after fire on two land systems in arid North-west New South Wales.
Authors: Mulham WE
Published: December 2005

Following a sequence of favourable years in which pasture growth over much of the arid zone of Australia reached very high ievels, controlled burns were carried out on two contrasting vegetation types in the extreme north-west of New South Wales. A wheei-point apparatus was used to measure subse- quent changes in botanical composition and foliage cover over a four year period. On a pasture periodically dominated by Mitchell grass (Astrebla spp.) burning while growing conditions were favourable resulted in only a small long- term decrease in the cover of Mitchell grass. In the short-term all chenopod species were eliminated and a wider range and greater abundance of annual forbs were promoted in the following spring. On a similar area burned by wildfire in a year of low summer rainfall the response from Mitchell grass was much poorer and botanical composition of the pasture present in the following spring differed from that which developed in the spring following the controlled burn. It also differed from that of the unburnt pasture. The major differences were due to the response of forb species and are attributed to variation in seasonal rainfall. On a dune-system pasture the dominant grasses were species of Aristida and Enneapogon. These are relatively short-lived and appear to have little ability to regrow from the butt after fire. Their slow regeneration after the burn was reflected in the substantial increase in relative abundance of perennial forbs in the following autumn, and of annual forbs the next spring. Although fire appeared to have no long-term effect on the pasture it dramatically reduced tree and shrub numbers. It is suggested that during years in which abnormal quantities of Mitchell grass are present in this region, controlled burning could be a useful form of management. A mosaic of patches burnt at different times would reduce the potential for wide-scale wildfires, provide refuge areas for stock and wildlife in the event of wildfire, and promote a wider choice of plant material for grazing animals. However, in dune-systems vegetation, removal of the pasture cover and reduction of the tree and shrub density would constitute an erosion risk.
Survivorship of the Grass Enneapogon purpurascens in Victoria River District, North-West Australia.
Authors: Andrew MH
Published: December 2005

The survival and growth of four cohorts of Enneapogon purpurascens were recorded at one site over a 3.5 year period. The plants were virtually ungrazed by cattle. Only 11% of plants survived to the second or later rainy seasons. Of all plants tagged, 72% failed to flower. Eighty-four per cent of reproductive plants flowered once only; 90% of these behaved as annuals and only one individual had a strictly biennial life-history. The five per cent of plants which flowered in more than two seasons became relatively large. E. purpurascens appears to respond to local conditions as a facultative perennial.
An Economic Perspective to the Population Management of Commercially Harvested Kangaroos.
Authors: Collins D , Menz K
Published: December 2005

Both overseas and within Australia, the need for a commercial kangaroo industry is being questioned. Some groups believe that the larger kangaroo species presently being culled are under threat of extinction and that the pest status of kangaroos to agriculture is largely a myth. As the commercial kangaroo industry is export oriented, the imposition of import bans by overseas governments would significantly affect the viability of the industry. Also, agricultural producers who believe they bear the costs of maintaining kangaroo population are concerned that damage by kangaroos would become unacceptably high if their numbers were to go unchecked.

The aim of this article is to put an economic perspective on the population management of commercially harvested kangaroos. The major groups in conflict are identified, along with their respective preferences regarding the appropriate level of the kangaroo population. The underlying reason for conflict, the common property characteristic of kangaroos, is examined, and an economic framework for reconciling these conflicts through population management presented. The lack of data on kangaroo numbers and the benefits and costs which various population levels have for the various interest groups remain a major impediment to quantifying an economic model for determining optimal population levels. An examination is made of relevant data and a national appraisal of the order of magnitude of kangaroo damages to agriculture is presented.
Prescribed Fire in Mallee Rangelands and the Potential Role of Aerial Ignition.
Authors: Noble JC
Published: December 2005

Details are presented of prescribed fires imposed over several mallee areas ranging from 120 to 10,660 hectares. Particular attention
is directed towards seven of these burns designed to assess the potential usefulness of aerial ignition for prescribed burning of large mallee
paddocks.
This ignition procedure is highly discriminating, enabling areas carrying sufficient fuel to be safely, and rapidly, burnt by numerous
small fires resulting from aerial incendiaries released on a predetermined grid pattern. Fuel in the largest paddock burnt was ignited in two
hours after releasing 13,000 spherical (3 cm diameter) incendiaries. In addition to overcoming problems of discontinuous fuel restricting
spread of fire when using ground ignition procedures, this aerial technique also enables fuel to be ignited over large areas during narrow
'time windows' when optimal temperature and humidity conditions apply.
On one mallee property, a prescribed fire programme based on autumn burning by aerial ignition in 1980, 1982 and 1985 resulted
in substantial improvements in sheep productivity and husbandry. Lamb weaning increased by 30% and overall stocking rate was doubled,
resulting in a gross margin increase from $2.31 to $5.88 per hectare. Such economic benefits following a reduction in mallee density will
only accrue in open mallee communities where speargrass is the major herb and a multiple fire regime can be imposed.
In mallee dunefields, where porcupine grass is the dominant understorey species, infrequent (every 15-20 years) single fires are the
norm due to the time required for this perennial grass to regenerate. More frequent burning is generally precluded because the light textured
soils of the dunes cannot produce sufficient ephemeral herbage, especially speargrass, to carry a fire.
Recolonisation by rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) after warren destruction in Western New South Wales.
Authors: Parer I , Parker BS
Published: December 2005

Warren destruction by ripping reduced the number of warrens on a property in western New South Wales to a very low level. After
the cessation of ripping the number of warrens remained low for three years. In the following years rainfall was above average and during
this period the number of warrens increased considerably.
Evaluation of methods of assessing vegetation change in the semi-arid rangelands of southern Australia.
Authors: Wilson AD , Abraham NA , Barratt R , Choate J , Green DR , Harland RJ , Oxley RE , Stanley RJ
Published: December 2005

Methods for measuring long-term changes in vegetation and soil condition were evaluated in terms of recording error, efficiency and value in meeting management objectives. The evaluation was made on 4-5 sites for each of six vegetation types across the semi-arid rangelands of South Australia and New South Wales. In the semi-arid woodlands the lowest errors of measurement (C.V. = 12-14%) were associated with point measures of canopy cover, while in the chenopod shrublands the most precise measure in most situations was the density of shrub clumps (C.V. = 12-16%). Measures of herbaceous and litter cover had a high error of measurement (e.g. C.V. = 60%) and observers were significantly different. The point measurement of the area of degraded soil surface was reliable on duplex soils, but not on gradational soils. The results are discussed in terms of their application for the monitoring of change in range condition. It is concluded that the most appropriate measure of the shrub layer is foliar cover in woodlands and clump density in chenopod shrublands.
The effect of soil pitting on establishment and growth of annual Medicago spp. on degraded rangeland in Western Australia.
Authors: Gintzburger G
Published: December 2005

This study is aimed at assessing the benefits of specialised reseeding techniques for establishment of annual Medicago spp., or for regeneration
projects, in degraded Mediterranean arid zones rangelands.
Two seeding techniques were compared near Kalgoorlie and Carnarvon in Western Australia: 'pit' seeding versus 'flat' seeding, the latter
simulating conventional farm seeding. Results indicate that pit seeding is more effective than flat seeding in these environments during the critical
establishment phase of annual Medicam SDD.
seeding establishment was increasehby 9 to 60 per cent; plant vigour by 20 to 130 per cent; regrowth after late rain by 67 per cent;@ number
per seedling by 65 to 140 per cent; pod weight per seedling by 108 to 255 per cent; and the number of days to flowering was reduced by up to 8 per cent.
The post-fire regeneration responses of Triodia wiseana and T. basedowii.
Authors: Casson NE , Fox JED
Published: December 2005

The difference between the regeneration responses of two Triodia species from Western Australia's Pilbara region could be exploited in establishing natural firebreaks. Little n known of the biology of most spinifex species. Observations on the post-fire regeneration of Triodia wiwam and I: bmedowii are reported from a study in the Pilbara. It was found that, in the early stages of post-fire growth and under certain conditions, ind~vidual plants of Triodia wiseam achieved a larger size than T hedowii plants. This was attributed to a sprouting response in the former.
Mapping current land use from Landsat data in southern inland Queensland.
Authors: Kelly GD
Published: December 2005

Land use/cover maps were generated using digi~al analysis of Landsat Multispectral Scanner data for a section of the brigalow belt in southern Queensland. As most agricultural establishments in the study area combine beef and/or sheep with grain production, a complex land uselcover pattern is present. Because of this diversity the most efficient computer analysis strategy was found to be a combination of digital masking techniques and unsupervised classification. Five land use categories were identified from the Landsat data with an overall mapping accuracy of 91%.
Botanical and chemical composition of the diet selected by cattle in three range types in central Australia.
Authors: Squires VR , Low WA
Published: December 2005

The diet selected by oesophageally fistulatcd cattle was assessed for its botanical and chemical composition in three range types, Acacia (mulga) Shrublands, Open Woodlands and Astrebla (Mitchell grass) Grasslands, in central Australia. The study was conducted over a 15 month period commencing in September, 1976 during a period of above-average rainfall. There were few positive correlations between range condition, as assessed by the now superceded STARC method, and attributes such as forage biomass, dietary nitrogen or in vifro digestibility values. Cattle had a larger than usual biomass of forage to choose from and a greater species richness because of seasonal conditions. Cattle preferred annual grasses and forbs to the perennial species in the three range types except that browse species made up a large proportion of the diet after the flush of annuals had gone. Levels of dietary nitrogen were generally higher in Acacia Shrubland than in Open Woodland and Astrebla Grassland, were related to rainfall rather than seasons and dropped below maintenance level when forage dried off, even during the favourable climatic conditions of the study. Selection of some forage species was intense and the long term impact of grazing on these species is likely to lead to their further decline. Graziers must consider the condition and availability of forage species in addition to cattle behaviour and condition when making management decisions.
Socio-economic and biological impact of the feral pig in New South Wales: An overview and alternative management plan.
Authors: O'Brien PH
Published: December 2005

Feral pigs are widely distributed in Australia and have increased their range despite extensive control efforts. They pose a management dilemma because they are simultaneously an agricultural pest, endemic and exotic disease hazard, environmental liability, export commodity and recreational resource. These attributes and values vary with place, time and observer perceptions. In this paper, I briefly review the socio- economic and biological impact of the feral pig in New South Wales. An alternative multiple use management plan is presented, which minimizes costs and conflict by integrating the requirements for cost-effective control of agricultural damage and exotic disease with the commercial and recreational values of the feral pig. The proposal is based on: local ('buffer zone') control near susceptible enterprises; sustainable yield harvesting; regulated recreational hunting; and appropriate exotic disease contingency plans.
Soil and plant relationships with cattle production on a property scale in the monsoonal tallgrass tropics.
Authors: McCosker TH , O'Rourke PK , Eggington AR , Doyle FW
Published: December 2005

Extreme variability in cattle production between replicate paddocks in a large supplementation experiment on Mount Bundey Station in the Danvin pastoral district of the Northern Territory, led to a search for reasons for the differences. Soil type, land unit and pasture parameters were related to cattle production parameters. Pregnancy rates of lactating heifers were positively related to yields of Themeda triandra, Sorghum plumosum, Eriachne burkittii and Eragrostis spp., the fist three of which declined in yield following heavy grazing pressure. Quantity of pasture was more closely correlated with animal production than was quality due to the wide range in yields and narrow range in quality attributes. Pregnancy rate in lactating heifers was more sensitive to yield of pasture species than was lactating cow pregnancy rate, breeder mortality, calf weight per breeder mated or steer average daily gain. Heifers consumed less supplement relative to their requirements than mature cows and steers and their response was not confounded by previous history. These factors probably account for their greater sensitivity to pasture variations. Pregnancy rate of cows was positively related to the proportion of lowland soil types and negatively to proportion of lithosol (hills). An equation incorporating the percentages of these soils, explained 63%. 42% and 39% of the variation in lactating cow pregnancy rate in 1982, 1983 and 1984 respectively. Variation in pregnancy rate among paddocks was therefore largely attributed to variation in the proportions of "upland" and "lowland" soil types. Sensitivity to grazing pressure of species within the native pasture was indicated by localized damage to T. triandra and S. plumosum and a large reduction in yield of Sintrans after five years of continuous grazing with access to non-protein nitrogen supplements at one breeder to 14ha. Native pastures in the Adelaide River area would not sustain this stocking rate. 18
A survey approach to evaluating the effects of management on semi-arid lands in New South Wales.
Authors: Downing BH , Evans JC
Published: December 2005

One hundred and ten paddocks were surveyed to give an overview of the effects of management burning, grazing by cattle, goats and sheep, and protection from livestock, on major vegetation types in the rangelands. A commercial paddock scale was used to complement information previously available on dietary preferences of livestock from a few, small research sites.

In this dry period study, estimates of woody and herbaceous cover were not significantly different overall among paddocks subjected to the various kinds of management. However, herbaceous cover in protected or spelled paddocks was better than in the others. Also, no significant relationships were found between woody cover and herbaceous biomass in any treatment.

Despite moderate sample sizes, high coefficients of variation occurred throughout the results. These were regarded as being a true reflection of the variability between paddocks in the rangeland. Underlying differences between management types may have been masked by the heterogeneity of the paddocks within each type due to a complex history of rainfall, burning and grazing.

Cluster analysis of the 110 paddocks revealed floristic (woody spp.) similarities of mulga, poplar-box, pine and some belah-rosewood woodlands, whereas saltbush and mallee were distinct.

Further comparisons of management types were made on mulga woodland alone. Domestic goats were kept in the most heavily wooded paddocks and, in contrast with sheep, checked the growth of woody plants < 2m high.

Woody growth recovered in the < 2m stratum several years after burning.

Further evaluation of the herbaceous layer and of woody/herbaceous relationships is recommended after a wet summer.
Predation of livestock by wild dogs in eastern New South Wales.
Authors: Fleming PJS , Korn TJ
Published: December 2005

A monthly survey involving officers from eastern New South Wales Pastures Protection Boards was conducted over four years from 1982 to 1985. Information was collected on the number and type of livestock attacked within each board district, sightings of wild dogs, the number of wild dogs kiied, the method by which they were kiied and the locations at which the observations occurred. A total of 25,644 livestock animals were reported killed or wounded from four regions; the North-East Coastal Region, the North-East Tablelands Region, the Central-East Region and South-East Region. Sheep were the most commonly attacked domestic animals followed by cattle and goats. Regional differences were apparent in the type of livestock killed and seasonal patterns of predation were evident. We recommend that annual control programmes be brought forward from June/July to late April in order to precede predation peaks.
New land degradation survey techniques for arid Australia. - Problems and prospects.
Authors: Pickup G
Published: December 2005

Degradation in Australia's arid grazing lands can be a multi-faceted problem involving soil erosion, soil degradation and pasture species change which includes shrub invasion. Each can reduce grazing productivity and all three interact in space, and over time. An added complexity is that some forms of degradation may occur naturally but also are accelerated by poor grazing management. Surveys of degradation frequently rely on "point" survey techniques. Selection of these sample "points" can quite often ignore the linkages between key landscape components, e.g. the areas that shed soil, and those that accumulate soil. A regional or whole-landscape approach which looks at grazing areas in their entirety is therefore essential, if new surveys are not to repeat the errors of flawed predecessors. Grazed landscapes might be assessed in terms of their vegetation cover, the spatial distribution of that cover, and its variability in time as a function of both climate and management. Remote sensing is the only way to conduct such assessments over vast areas if the problems associated with point sampling are to be overcome.
Issues of size and viability of pastoral holdings in the Western Division of New South Wales.
Authors: Macleod ND
Published: December 2005

Uany pastoral leases in western New South Wales are too small to ensure that viable pastoral enterprisu will persist in the medium to longer term. Apart
from attendant welfare problems for leaseholders and their dependants, there is some evidence that this has exacerbated overgrazing problems which
creates undesirable and potentially irreversible degradation of vegetation and soil resources.
Arguably, the small size problem has sufficiently weakened the economic welfare of many lessees to make private acquisition of additional areas andl
or adoption of conservation oriented management practices non-economic. The future scenario is then one of greater public involvement in property
adjustment measures; or a growing population of non-viable pastoral enterprises with its attendant efficiency, welfare and resource conservation
problems.
The paper examines trends in property enterprise size, structure and concentration and the existence and extent of size economies for wool and livestock
production in western New South Wales. Several issues are addressed concerning the economic viability of pastoral properties and several public policy
prescriptions are presented for addressing the sizehiability problem.
Effects of providing supplements during the wet season on beef production in the Darwin district of the Northern Territory.
Authors: McCosker TH , O'Rourke PK , Eggington AR
Published: December 2005

The effects of four wet season supplementation regimes on the pregnancy rates, mortality and liveweight of 870 Brahman x Shorthorn cross cattle (cows, bulls, heifers and steers) were investigated on Mt Bundey Station from 1980 to 1984. Treatments imposed were (i) Control (no wet season supplement), (ii) Mineral (supplementation with 13 minerals during the wet season), (iii) +Protein (the same minerals plus non-protein nitrogen and protein over the wet season), and (iv) Strategic (consecutive use of salt, mineral and non-protein nitrogen/protein supplements over the early wet, mid wet and late wet season periods respectively). Each treatment was replicated twice and all received a dry season supplement of non-protein nitrogen plus minerals while stocked at one breeder to 14 ha on native pasture. The pregnancy rate of lactating cows in the +Protein regime in 1982 was 77% compared with 60% for the other three regimes (P<0.05).

The pregnancy rates in 1983 for both the +Protein (57%) and Strategic (54%) regimes were higher (P<0.05) than the Control (40%) and Mineral (31%) regimes. Mortality rates of breeders and heifers ranged from 2 to 5% in the Mineral, +Protein and Strategic regimes, compared with 8% (1982) and 12% (1983) (P<0.05) in the Control groups. Post pregnancy diagnosis losses were 8% in the +Protein regime compared with 16% in the other regimes (P<0.05). Breeders were 25 to 30 kg heavier in the +Protein than in Control regimes (P<0.05). Liveweight gain of steers in the +Protein regime was 11 to 31% higher than the other three regimes in two of the three steer drafts. Calf weight per breeder in the +Protein treatment was 55% higher in 1983 and 44% higher in 1984 than the other three regimes. It is concluded that wet season supplementation with non-protein nitrogen/protein and minerals has the potential to substantially increase herd productivity in the monsoonal tallgrass region.

The response to the wet season +Protein regime, and the absence of a similar response to the Mineral regime, despite a phosphorus, sodium and sulphur deficiency in the pasture, was attributed to an overriding nitrogen requirement. Other factors affecting herd productivity were, paddock variability which was attributed to variation in the proportion of upland compared with floodplain/riparian land units in each paddock and seasonal differences related to the length of the preceding dry season.
The effect of four broadleaf herbicides on seedlings of five native and one introduced grass species.
Authors: Maze KM , Goodridge MR
Published: December 2005

The effect of four broadleaf herbicides (metsulfuron-methyl, bromoxynil + MCPA, chlorsulfuron and 2,4-D mine), on the growth of five native and one introduced grass species was tested on the seedling stage of each grass. The growth of Elymus scabrus, Chloris truncata and Eragrostis curvula was not affected by any of the herbicides used. Bromoxynil + MCPA appeared to be the least damaging of the herbicides on the growth of Bothriochloa macra, Danthonia caespitosa and Enteropogon ramosus, although the extent of damage caused varied between the species. Metsulfuron-methyl, chlorsulfuron and 2,4-D amine had detrimental effects on all three species. The variability of responses to broadleaf herbicides exhibited by the native grass species suggests that herbicide trials will be a necessary part of native grass domestication programs.
A survey of native grasses in the Goulburn District and factors influencing their abundance.
Authors: Munnich DJ , Simpson PC , Nicol HI
Published: December 2005

A survey of natural and improved paddocks on 34 farms was conducted over winter within a 60 km radius of Goulburn on the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales. Seventeen of the properties which were found to have significant (greater than 10 per cent) proportions of potentially useful native grasses were resurveyed in the subsequent summer to identify specific Danthonia spp. The survey revealed that useful native yearlong green species such as Microlaena stipoides and Danthonia spp. were relatively abundant in natural paddocks surveyed over winter (16 per cent and 10 per cent respectively), Danthonia being represented by four common species. These natural paddocks, most of which contained Trifolium subterraneum and had some superphosphate input, carried 80 per cent as many stock as their improved counterparts in terms of average DSE/ha. Factors such as cultivation and the presence of naturalized or sown species influenced the abundance of these species, but species differences were apparent. Cultivation reduced the abundance of Danthonia spp. but did not affect the abundance of M. stipoides, which was thus more prevalent than Danthonia spp. in improved pastures. Microlaena stipoides was also more prevalent in uncleared than cleared paddocks. The frequency of Danthonia spp. was negatively associated with high percentage frequencies of annual grasses (principally Vulpia spp.), declining by approximately 2.5 per cent for each 10 per cent increase in annual grasses over winter. The proportion of M. stipoides observed in paddocks appeared to be more influenced by sown pasture species, with lowest percentages recorded where species such as Phalaris aquatica had been sown and highest percentages where no exotic species had been introduced. The abundance of M. stipoides was affected by pH, with percentage frequency increasing as pH declined (down to pH 4 (Cacl~)), indicating the possible acid tolerance of this species. Species' percentages recorded changed with season. For example, Danthonia percentages recorded were considerably greater over summer when flowering heads were obvious than those recorded in winter. This aspect highlights the importance of recording different species during specific seasons to increase the accuracy of frequency estimates.
Comparing two views of the landscape: Aboriginal traditional ecological knowledge and modern scientific knowledge.
Authors: Baker LM , Mutitjulu Community
Published: December 2005

The potential for combining Aboriginal ecological knowledge and scientific knowledge to enhance understanding of the environment is explored. Results of a fauna survey jointly undertaken at Ulug National Park by Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service, CSIRO and Aboriginal members of Mutitjulu Community provide the basis for discussion. Examination of comparative habitat classifications, recognition of faunal habitat preferences and knowledge of the effects of drought and fire suggest that information from Aboriginal people can enhance, and in some instances provide an alternative perspective to, the knowledge currently held by scientists. The scientific community will benefit by accepting Aboriginal ecological knowledge on an equal basis to scientific research. The importance of involving Aboriginal people through all aspects of the research and ensuring that they maintain control over the usage of their traditional knowledge is stressed.
Technological Change in Fences and European Pastoral Heritage in Semi-Arid New South Wales.
Authors: Pickard J
Published: December 2005

Despite increasing attention to conservation of natural resources and Aboriginal heritage, relics of the European pastoral industry in the semi-arid rangelands have been neglected. Fences are ubiquitous relics of the pastoral industry and show a rich variety in styles, techniques and technological change. Examples from Wilcannia in western New South Wales illustrate the variety that can be found. Legislation in New South Wales prohibits disturbance of relics (items > 50 years old) but has not been applied. The key step is assessing the significance of the item or place. Criteria adopted under The Burra Charter are listed and briefly discussed. Costs of conservation should be borne by society, not individual graziers; and grazier cooperation is essential for conserving cultural heritage.
The Distribution of Red Kangaroos in Relation to Range Regeneration.
Authors: Norbury GL , Norbury DC
Published: December 2005

Pastoralists frequently claim that attempts at range regeneration in arid and semi-arid areas are thwarted by kangaroos. This paper examines the possibility that the impact of kangaroo grazing is exacerbated by an influx of kangaroos onto regeneration sites. The amount of kangaroo dung in a 7500 ha paddock in arid Western Australia increased six-fold over a 15-month period following the removal of sheep. A similar influx was apparent in another destocked paddock that provided unusually high offtake of kangaroos by a commercial shooter. The amount of kangaroo dung remained relatively stable in a control paddock that was stocked. Some areas subject to cultivation and reseeding with native shrubs also showed increased amounts of kangaroo dung, indicating relatively intense kangaroo grazing. Radio-tracking of 46 kangaroos showed them to be mostly sedentary, suggesting that 'invading' kangaroos emerge from the local area. This conclusion is contrary to the widespread view that kangaroos migrate from distant locations. Thus, kangaroo control programs on sensitive areas are likely to be long-lasting because incursions are predominantly from local populations.
Impact of Red Kangaroos on the Pasture Layer in the Western Australian Arid Zone.
Authors: Norbury GL , Norbury DC , Hacker RB
Published: December 2005

We studied the impact of grazing by red kangaroos (Macropus rufus) on pasture biomass and species diversity over a 32-month period in destocked open shrubland in the Gascoyne region of Western Australia. Grazing significantly impeded the accumulation of annual and perennial grass biomass in a degraded perennial shrub community (Pc0.001 and P<0.05) and on denuded sites that were cultivated and reseeded with native shrubs (P<0.01 and Pc0.01). The accumulation of annual and perennial forb biomass was unaffected by kangaroo grazing. After 12 months, pasture species diversity was significantly greater on degraded perennial sites protected from kangaroo grazing (P<0.05).

Commercial kangaroo shooting did not alleviate the impact of kangaroo grazing on grass accumulation (P<0.01). Unless more effective methods of kangaroo control are integrated with stock reductions, the recovery of degraded rangeland pastures is likely to be severely limited.
The Distribution of Caesium-137 in Rangeland Soils at Three Sites in Western Australia.
Authors: Loughman RJ , Mcfarlane DJ , Campbell BL , Shepherd R
Published: December 2005

Soil sampling for the fallout isotope caesium-137 (137Cs) was canied out on three pastoral properties in Western Australia to assess its suitability for estimating soil erosion status. The sites were situated east and north-east of Geraldton in a region receiving an annual rainfall of approximately 200 rnm. It was hypothesised that 137Cs levels would be lower outside Department of Agriculture exclosures, established in the early 1950s, because of higher rates of soil erosion due to pastoral activities. The exclosures are areas of fenced-off rangeland which have the purpose of excludin'g in11 herbivores. It was further hypothesised that 137Cs levels would be related to microtopography in this rangeland-plains landscape. Soil erosion and deposition have given rise to scalds and soil mounds under shrubs, respectively, and amounts of 137Cs at these sites could reflect these processes. The Mann-Whitney U test showed that there were no significant differences in 137Cs levels between samples collected inside and outside the exclosures. At one property there was a significant relationship between 137Cs and microtopography (U test: sig. 0.025 level), suggesting that soil erosion was more severe on open and scald sites than under shrubs. No detectable 137Cs was found at 23% of all sites, but there was evidence that localized deposition of sediments had occurred. Because the total number of samples used in this survey was small, further work will be required to confirm the utility of the 13'Cs technique for measuring erosion status in arid Australia.