SHEEP PRODUCTION FROM PERENNIAL PASTURES IN THE NORTHERN AGRICULTURAL REGION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

摘要

A preliminary analysis of Western Australian soil types and environment indicates suitable land for the sowing of 1 million ha of perennial pasture. Perennial pastures extend the duration of the ‘green feed season’, and plant analysis indicates thatthey have the potential to reduce the reliance on supplementary feeding over the summer/autumn period. However, little information is available on the level of sheep production that can be achieved off these pastures. This paper discusses stocking density, liveweight and wool production, and animal health issues of sheep grazing perennial pastures.