Serrated Tussock: Managing native pastures to prevent invasion

Aims

The purpose of this project is to develop better management practices for serrated tussock (Nassella trichotoma) through improved understanding of the management and bio-physical on-farm factors associated with the success and, or failure to control this devastating weed. An important component of this project is the focus on management practices that prevent the further spread of Australia’s worst perennial grass weed within and between farms and why some farmers appear unsuccessful at overcoming this weed. Connections between the ways the livestock production system is managed and the tactics employed for managing serrated tussock will be closely investigated.

This project will focus on two areas that require investigation: the role of the serrated tussock seedbank in the establishment to serrated tussock infestations and management factors that are associated with low infestation rates. We want to answer the questions of whether the soil seed bank is ever-present on farms in infested regions and management needs to assume that; and if success in managing serrated tussock depends more on livestock management practices.
 

Background

The role of seedbank loads in infestation rates is yet to be fully explored and understanding this is essential in stopping uninfested pastures being invaded. The interactions between management factors and seedbank loads are also unknown. A need exists to shift the farm management focus from the livestock to the pastures and weed, and produce recommendations for farm management that are simple and easy to implement. A shift to a pasture focus includes the need to maintain pastures in a good condition for animal production as well as to resist weed invasion.

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