Local farmers and residents will soon get a behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge agricultural research when the CSIRO Boorowa Agricultural Research Station (BARS) hosts a free open day next month. The event comes as the station ramps up its field trials and a new local manager focuses on building stronger ties with the surrounding community.
Boorowa local Gerard Ryan has taken on the role of station manager, describing the position as a meaningful chance to give back to the region that shaped him.
“It presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the region that has shaped me, while supporting research that has the potential to influence agricultural systems well beyond our local area,” Mr Ryan said.
“What makes the role particularly rewarding is the station’s ability to connect scientific research with the people who live and work in the region.”
CSIRO Agriculture and Food Deputy Director Dr Alison Bentley said research activity at BARS is expanding, making it an ideal time to invite the public onto the property.
“We’re ramping up research at BARS, so it is an excellent time to showcase what we’re doing and to get feedback and inputs from local farmers and stakeholders,” she said.
A key project is a long-term trial comparing different cropping sequences, farming practices and input levels. Rather than relying on single-season results, researchers are examining how decisions affect productivity across varying seasonal conditions. The work is intended to help growers plan rotations, manage inputs and evaluate practices such as intercropping.
Other current activities include large-scale evaluations of major canola diseases such as blackleg, the multiplication of seed from a diverse collection of Australian wheat varieties, and the installation of a new field-based system to measure greenhouse gas emissions from cereal stubble under different post-harvest treatments. Sensors across the 290-hectare property are collecting detailed soil and water data to support studies on crop performance and resource use.
Mr Ryan emphasised that the station’s goal is practical, sustainable outcomes for agriculture.
“While meaningful advances rarely occur overnight, each project contributes to a growing body of evidence that supports improved farming practices,” he said.
He also highlighted the opportunity for young people to engage with science and technology through drones, remote sensing, advanced data systems and environmental monitoring.
The open day will be held on Tuesday 2 September from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the CSIRO Boorowa Agricultural Research Station, 117 Cunningar Road, Boorowa. Visitors will receive an overview of current research, inspect long-term trials and join field tours.
The event is free but registration is required via the CSIRO website. Visitors should wear closed-toe shoes and dress for outdoor conditions.
Farmers and community members are encouraged to share ideas by attending open days, field days or workshops, or by contacting the station directly. Mr Ryan said maintaining strong local connections will help ensure future research addresses the issues that matter most to the region.
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