Current Research

The current trial will evaluate incorporating white clover into sheep grazed swards at two fertiliser nitrogen and stocking rate levels on the productivity of pasture based lamb production systems. Building on our previous study this trial will investigate two contrasting stocking rate systems (11 and 13 ewes/ha) grazing three different pasture treatments:

1. a grass only sward receiving 145kg N/ha/yr
2. a grass plus white clover sward receiving 145kg N/ha/yr
3. a grass plus white clover sward receiving 90 kg N/ha/yr.

The overall objective of this study is to examine the potential of grass-white clover swards to support increased output levels within sheep production systems. Specific objectives of this project are to assess the influence of incorporating white clover into sheep grazed swards on ewe and lamb performance, pasture production, utilization and quality and their ability to support higher stocking rates while also reducing the level of chemical nitrogen applied.