CLIMATE variability has provided major risk to grain profitability in South Australia recently, according to the Grains Research and Development Corporation.
GRDC has responded to the challenge by launching targeted investments to improve how the grain industry utilises seasonal forecasts.
“Many (grain) growers are aware of seasonal forecasts but are unsure how to best use the information when decision making,” GRDC grower relations manager — south, Randall Wilksch said.
“We want to address this by encouraging the most effective use of climate information to improve profit and risk management.”
As part of the investment, GRDC will run a pilot program to upskill a small group of advisers to develop a seasonal forecast framework, helping growers better manage risk and increase profitability.
The program will also consist of a series of online workshops — involving 20 agronomists from across the country — with investigations encompassing how forecasts can be incorporated into farming systems.
Being held in the final two weeks of November, the program is open to agronomists with a minimum client base of 10 grain growers.
To express your interest, contact Regional Connec­tions’ Mark Stanley on 0427 831 151 or mark@regionalconnections.com.au.
Expressions of interest close on Friday, October 30.