Grazing Management Strategies to Thrive in Australia’s Changing Climate

MEDIA RELEASE

19 November 2024

Australia’s grazing sector faces increasing challenges from severe and prolonged droughts, declining stocking rates, and growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. Recognizing these challenges, Jesse Moody, a 2022 Nuffield Scholar from New South Wales, has dedicated his research to exploring innovative grazing management techniques that enhance soil health, improve water efficiency, and optimise pasture performance in Australia’s brittle and variable climate. 

Supported by Rabobank, Jesse’s report, ‘Managing Pastures for Seasonal Variability’, provides valuable insights into restoring degraded landscapes, maximising natural resources such as rainfall and sunlight, and balancing grazing practices for environmental and financial sustainability. 

“Understanding the delicate balance between soil, plants, and animals is fundamental to ensuring the longevity of Australia’s grazing systems,” Jesse explains. “Animals are the most important tool graziers have to improve soil fertility and pasture resilience. How we manage grazing intensity and rest periods can directly impact water absorption, plant diversity, and soil organic carbon levels.” 

Jesse’s research journey took him across Australia and to eight countries, including Argentina, Canada, Israel, and the USA, where he studied a range of grazing systems and pasture management techniques. These global insights have informed his practical recommendations, tailored to help Australian graziers address extreme seasonal variability and embrace sustainable practices. 

Jesse with his Global Focus Program in Israel, 2023

“From rotational to holistic grazing systems, I saw firsthand how innovative approaches can transform degraded pastures into thriving, biodiverse ecosystems,” Jesse shares. “In Canada, I observed how integrating livestock into grazing systems boosted soil health and productivity, and in Argentina, I saw the benefits of managing woody weed encroachment through balanced grazing practices. These examples highlighted the critical importance of aligning grazing strategies with the specific environmental conditions of each region.” 

Key findings from Jesse’s report include a focus on restoring balance within grazing systems. Holistic grazing methods, which consider biodiversity, soil health, and livestock needs, can reverse the damage caused by overgrazing or prolonged resting. Techniques to improve water efficiency, such as increasing soil organic carbon and implementing “ponding” projects, were found to enhance water absorption and rainfall efficiency, making pastures more resilient during dry periods. Additionally, integrating cattle, sheep, and goats into rotational grazing systems improved pasture diversity, reduced the prevalence of woody weeds, and enhanced overall productivity. 

Jesse at the Rio Gallagos, Santa Cruz, Argentina, 2023

“Australia’s climate requires us to think differently,” Jesse says. “For example, our lower humidity compared to Europe means that many traditional grazing practices aren’t suitable for our conditions. We need to adopt methods that focus on building soil health, managing pastures year-round, and maintaining biodiversity. Healthy soils and plants are the foundation for productive livestock systems.” 

Jesse also highlights the importance of collecting data on livestock and pastures to improve decision-making and adapt grazing practices dynamically to seasonal conditions. This information provides valuable feedback, enabling producers to adjust stocking rates and grazing intensity to match the carrying capacity of their land. 

“The grazing industry’s ability to thrive in Australia’s challenging climate lies in its willingness to embrace change and innovation,” Jesse concludes. “By prioritizing soil health and biodiversity, graziers can build resilience into their systems, reduce reliance on external inputs, and create more stable, profitable operations. The solutions are there—we just need to take action.” 

Jesse and wife Rhiannon, YARMOUTH, Cunnamulla

Jesse is optimistic about the future of Australia’s grazing industry and believes his report will inspire other producers to implement sustainable practices. “When I returned to Australia, I felt a renewed sense of purpose. This journey has shown me that we already have many of the tools and knowledge to address these challenges—we just need the confidence to apply them.” 

Jesse presented his research at the 2024 National Conference in Launceston, Tasmania, and a link to his presentation can be found here

Jesse Moody's report can be found here