Riverine Plains Blog

This week’s blog has been contributed by Riverine Plains Premier Partner, IK Caldwell AGnVET

Key messages

• yield data and mapping can help grain growers understand factors driving profitability
• accurate, ‘clean’ yield data is essential for making good decisions post-harvest
• being prepared before harvest is critical to collecting more accurate yield data

Key messages

• optical spray technology can offer dramatic savings in chemical, diesel and labour use
• green-on-brown (fallow) and green-on-green (in-crop) technologies are proving themselves with Australian farmers and can have a fit for all cropping operations
• low-cost options are available, with drones also having the capability to map and spray weeds across large areas

Key messages:

• always have a clear purpose for collecting on-farm data and understand how it can be used to make decisions, for example informing fertiliser strategies, livestock breeding programs and soil amelioration
• good quality data is critical to making informed decisions
• ensure that you will be able to access your data, even when changing consultants or machinery suppliers

Key messages

• electronic identification (EID) technology underpins NLIS traceability, biosecurity and market access
• mandatory EID tagging of sheep and farmed goats begins on 1 January 2025
• using EID technology for performance monitoring and record keeping can enhance livestock management and decision making

EID technology has many applications beyond its role in traceability and represents a real opportunity for farmers looking to improve their livestock management.

Although many farmers are already familiar with EID technology, there are many who may be feeling overwhelmed by the cost and upskilling required. So, what are the additional benefits of using EID technology and where can you get help if you need extra support?

Key points 

• AgTech includes everything from internet-connected sensors to software and advanced robotics  
• AgTech can provide data insights that help with decision-making.  
• Any AgTech investment must be worthwhile and not create more problems than it solves 

What is AgTech? 

Many people get overwhelmed when they think of AgTech. AgTech is a catch-all term that describes technological solutions that aim to improve yield, efficiency and profitability in agriculture (i.e. that make life easier).