PROJECT
Exploring Silvopasture for Drought Resilience in the Northern Gulf Region of Queensland
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Hub Priority
Plantation Investment Models 

Project Overview

This project investigates the potential of silvopasture systems, integrating trees with pasture and livestock, as a climate resilience strategy in the drought-prone Northern Gulf region of Queensland. The study assesses land suitability, viable tree species, and landholder perspectives, while offering early guidance for transitioning from intensive grazing to tree-integrated systems.

Key Findings

• Land Suitability

  • 47,677 ha of X-class land and 12.7 million ha of pastureland were identified as potentially suitable for silvopasture.

  • 39 distinct land types across the Gulf Savannah region were evaluated using soil, climate, and vegetation data.
     

• Suitable Tree Species

  • Seven drought-tolerant and timber-valuable species were proposed, including:

  • Corymbia citriodora (lemon-scented gum)

  • Eucalyptus crebra (narrow-leaved ironbark)

  • E. camaldulensis, E. argophloia, E. cambagiana, E. thozetiana

  • Khaya senegalensis (African mahogany)

  • Preliminary trial results showed moderate growth (0.6–1.0 m/year in height) and survival variability across species, based on soil and climate conditions.

• Landholder Perspectives

  • 61.7% of surveyed producers were interested in adopting silvopasture.

  • 79.2% saw dual-output (timber + livestock) as an economic benefit.

  • 77.6% believed it could help mitigate climate change and improve drought resilience.

  • Key concerns included tree-grass competition, changing vegetation laws, high setup costs, and lack of technical or financial support.
     

• Livestock & Land Management

  • Trees offer shade, improve animal welfare, and enhance pasture quality.

  • Leguminous tree species like Leucaena help fix nitrogen and boost soil health.

  • Proper spacing, pruning, and grazing management are critical for success.

Recommendations

• Support Early Adopters

  • Provide financial incentives (grants, subsidies) to reduce establishment costs and deliver technical guidance on species selection, planting, and pasture integration.

• Demonstrate Value through Pilot Trials

  • Develop and monitor demonstration sites to showcase best-practice models for silvopasture in Northern Gulf conditions.

• Streamline Policy and Tenure Frameworks

  • Simplify vegetation management laws and land tenure approvals to encourage adoption. Ensure consistent and clear regulatory guidance for farmers and landholders.

• Strengthen Knowledge Sharing

  • Expand extension services and educational programs focused on drought resilience and agroforestry. Engagement with Indigenous landholders and regional stakeholders will also be crucial in co-designing solutions.

Project documentation