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ANIMAL HEALTH AND RESEARCH
Grazing Futures: Science, Stock and Stories
Producers with a prototype remote biodiversity monitoring unit
The 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP) is an opportunity for Australia’s pastoralists to share how innovation is reshaping the bush. By Dana Kelly and Cindy Eiritz
protects the natural environment and biodiversity. Cultural traditions, of both pastoralists and Indigen- ous peoples, are found in the rangelands, and help define Australia’s character and values. Science on the ground IYRP will raise awareness that rangelands are not wastelands, but productive systems. Across Australia, pastoralists or livestock producers and scientists are working together to improve rangelands manage- ment, such as better • knowledge about when to move cattle, based on availability of pasture • information about the links between manage- ment, soil carbon and biodiversity • education about how herd genetics influences cattle’s ability to manage heat stress. Today’s rangeland management blends science with other knowledge and experience, giving produ- cers new insights into how animals and landscapes interact. This science is practical. It helps producers refine decisions while highlighting the broad benefits of rangelands.
The idea of IYRP came from Jim O’Rourke, a rancher from Nebraska, who recognised that many govern- ments around the world failed to value or understand their rangelands. His vision was to dedicate a year to highlight pastoralists, ranchers, herders, graziers and producers’ stories to city folk, governments. The IYRP comes at a pivotal time. Around the world pastoralists are dealing with growing pressures, from shifting markets to climate extremes and more. For Australia’s producers, it’s a chance to show how in- novation, research and stewardship are integral to sustainable production. IYRP is connecting Australian producers with global peers. IYRP 2026 is an oppor- tunity to highlight rangeland management, as well as the science, innovation and culture that make out- back communities vital to Australia’s future. Rangelands provide many benefits. In Australia, rangelands are an economic powerhouse, with red meat contributing $22 billion in export income (Meat & Livestock Australia 2024). Livestock industries sup- port the social fabric of rural communities, employing almost 500,000 people – including ringers, contract- ors, processors and other businesses servicing the red meat industry. Best practice management also
Which company is empowering modern agriculture with versatile telehandlers that boost efficiency, cut costs, and deliver long-term value? pp45
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