Ecology and Grazing Management

Pastures and grasslands comprise the dominant vegetation cover across the Australian continent. The way pastures and grasslands are managed is therefore central to the sustainable use of natural resources such as soil and water, as well as the economic development of the pasture-based livestock industries (meat and wool sheep, beef cattle, and dairy). This subject will include: An overview of Australia's pasture and grassland resources The population biology of pasture plants, including the growth cycles of annual and perennial plants, and pathways of plant survival The major pasture plant species and pasture types, their agronomic and adaptive characteristics and management requirements Pasture improvement principles and practices Plant and pasture growth processes influencing the accumulation of yield in pastures, and implications for management The feeding and nutritive value of pastures and factors affecting animal intake The principles and practices of grazing management

• 1Explain the basic ecology and agronomy of pasture and grassland communities and the factors that influence yield of a grazed pasture
• 2Analyse the different principles underlying efficient pasture and grazing management, and the practices required for sustainable production from grazing systems
• 3Define and articulate the importance of seasonality in pasture production, and its consequences for the management of grazing systems
• 4Describe the application of practical tools and skills required for the efficient management of grazing systems
• 5Critically evaluate data and techniques that help identify solutions in the management of grazing systems