“Continuing to improve our understanding of ryegrass and other forages is critical to AgResearch’s role of enhancing the value, productivity and profitability of New Zealand’s pastoral sector,” says research director Warren McNabb.
Another key display will be the story of the ‘hidden half’. Science team leader germoplasm Dr Jim Crush says the history of forage plant breeding has been based on above ground research. Roots deliver nutrients to the plants and AgResearch scientists are interested in improving nutrient efficiency. “By doing so, less nitrogen and phosphorus is lost to waterways and that helps protect water quality. Deeper rooted plants have better access to subsoil moisture and better drought tolerance.
“The take home message is that roots are vitally important, but often not considered. If we are to develop totally sustainable pasture systems we need an improved root function.
“AgResearch is screening plant germplasm for traits that contribute to improved root function and starting to move into development of new ryegrass breeding lines that express these traits. Some of this underpinning research will develop new plant germplasm so that our pastures can become more productive, profitable and sustainable.”
Also featuring on the stand is Farmax computer software used by sheep-and-beef and dairy industries. AgResearch scientists originally developed the technology and the organisation retains a share in the business.
Farmers visiting the AgResearch stand will be able to get a supply vs demand graph for grass growth over the year on their farm, and model the change in responses with a change of inputs (eg increasing/lowering stocking rate/supplements/fertiliser).
www.agresearch.co.nz
