Project background
The National Variety Trials (NVT) is funded by the Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC). SARDI leads the delivery of the NVT for the Eyre Peninsula, Mid North, Murray Mallee, and South East. The NVT provides independent results on grain yield and quality ratings to evaluate the performance of advanced breeding lines compared to current commercial varieties.
Trials are conducted across various crop types, including:
- cereals (wheat, barley, and oats)
- pulses (lentils, faba beans, peas, chickpeas, and lupins)
- oilseed (canola).
The data collected helps inform South Australian farmers of the variety best suited to their local environment.
Objectives
The SARDI Agronomy team leads the delivery of over 100 NVT trials for the following regions:
- Upper and Lower Eyre Peninsula
- Mid North
- Murray Mallee
- South East
Research approach
All trial sites are conducted following the NVT protocols with measurements focused on grain yield, quality, and disease.
Each year, SARDI sows, manages, and harvests NVT trials across the upper and lower Eyre Peninsula, Mid North, Murray Mallee, and South East regions and works with local farmers and advisors to ensure relevance. We very much appreciate the support of local farmers, agronomy consultants, advisors, and plant breeders with this project.
Expected outcomes
The project develops research data assessing the performance of advanced breeding lines and commercial varieties. The data's available for review on the GRDC website on the trial results and long term yield pages.
Through funding support provided by the South Australian Grain Industry Trust (SAGIT), SARDI also develops the SA Sowing Guide to provide detailed information on new commercially released cereal, pulse, and oilseed varieties.
Collaborators
- Flinders University
- NVT Advisory Committee (NAC): Farmers, consultants, and advisors who provide advice on trial activities in each region.
- NVT trial hosts: Farmers who provide access to land for NVT trials