On-farm research
Those farmers who undertake monitoring and research
on their own farms have the most to gain from the results.
Those who are able to critically and objectively evaluate
their management techniques can use the knowledge gained to
further refine and adapt their farm forestry projects. When
the results of on-farm research are supported by formal scientific
research and understanding, farmers can be more confident
in their application. If the results of on-farm research or
monitoring appear to contradict current knowledge, then there
may be a need for scientists to investigate further.
The potential contribution farmers can make,
either alone or in partnership with scientists, in extending
and improving Australias current knowledge of farm forestry
is enormous. This will require farmers to learn skills and
adopt the disciplines required to design, monitor and evaluate
research. A broad definition of on-farm research may include
any of the following:
1. Observation
and exploration
2. Recording
and documenting
3. Measurement
and analysis
4. Comparison
of treatments and testing new ideas
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