Rice industry extension co-ordination

Summary

The project will coordinate rice industry extension services following the departure of NSW DPI funded and delivered extension services. The industry has recognised that the value of RIRDCfunded without an effective industryfunded extension framework to ensure that information reaches growers in a way that can be readily understood and practically implemented on farm. With the present depleted and disjointed system in place, this flow of information to growers is not likely to be effective, nor is there an effective pathway for the research needs informed by grower experience on the ground to be fed back up the system to researchers. In addition, the industry has identified scope for improving the way capacity within the private sector can be most effectively used.

Program

Rice

Research Organisation

Ricegrowers' Association of Australia

Objective Summary

1. Coordinating the establishment of a new framework for extension services, including developing collaborative arrangements with existing researchers and extension providers, as well as developing a network of industry extension officers across the rice growing region. 2. Ensuring that growers receive information about and adopt improved practices and technologies. 3. Ensuring grower input informs research priorities. 4. Maximising the effectiveness of industry levy funding contributions for extension through partnerships and collaborations, and attracting external funding. 5. Ensuring that industry capacity is improved by establishing mentoring arrangements for emerging extension professionals 6. Monitoring and reviewing the effectiveness of rice industry extension services and devise and implement changes as required.