Department participates in the Territory Natural Resource Management Conference

Figure 3. TNRM conference participants try some Rambutan from the high density orchard at the Coastal Plains Research Farm.

The 2017 Territory Natural Resource Management Conference, an event proudly sponsored by the Department of Primary Industry and Resources (DPIR), was recently held in Darwin.

Coastal Plains Research Farm and Plant Industries Development Division staff hosted a field trip as part of the conference to build awareness of our horticulture and sustainable farming research. Talks by staff included a visit to the high density tropical exotic orchards and passionfruit breeding program. Other topics covered included a discussion around termite management, demonstration of nitrogen efficiency research, soil mapping, plant biosecurity, spray reduction through nozzle choice and varietal screening of pastures. The day capped off with a taste of some of the local produce including rambutan, jackfruit and some of the new passionfruit varieties.

Participation from across the department continued throughout the conference. DPIR hosted a conference trade booth highlighting our plant biosecurity program, agricultural research, and the Darwin Aquaculture Centre was nominated for an award.