FWPA has continued to prepare for the next phase of strategic investment in grower R&D. The plans are intended to increase the value of Australia’s commercial forests through the renewal, growth and sustainability of forestry research.
The FWPA-led Grower Research Advisory Committee (GRAC) held a workshop in Melbourne on 22 and 23 August, to prioritise the R&D opportunities presented in the eight forestry investment plans that were submitted earlier in the year for review and consideration.
Each plan was developed to inform and promote investment in forest R&D from 2019 to 2024, including estimates of the potential return from the plan and a high-level business case for investment.
The plans have been developed through collaboration between three key contributing groups: technical and operational specialists from the industry; research and service providers; and the GRAC’s executive members.
The initiative is being informed by consultation with industry leaders, researchers and service providers, with consideration being given to where the best value gains might be achieved. Based on this consultation, the GRAC will make recommendations to the FWPA board on the allocation of funds.
FWPA Forest Research Manager, Jodie Mason said the eight proposed plans cover a multitude of areas, ranging from nutrition to genetics and tree breeding, plantation and native forest silviculture, operations and supply chain, resource modelling, remote sensing, fire, and damage agents including pests, disease and climate.
“This work supports the GRAC’s strategic plan and vision, which aims to double the value of Australia’s commercial forests by 2040 by fostering an innovative culture in our enterprises, applying the world’s best practices, collaborating and investing in research and development as appropriate,” said Mason.
Key to achieving this vision is increased and targeted investment in R&D, to build capacity and capability for the ongoing support of the sector.
“The workshop was incredibly valuable as an opportunity to discuss the merits of each plan and their potential to meet key priorities. Having so many people from diverse backgrounds with such exceptional insights to offer was invaluable,” said Mason.
“This sort of investment is vital, not only for protecting what we have today, but to ensure we maximise technologies and innovations in the area of growing to strengthen our industry and resources long into the future.”
The portfolio of R&D projects prioritised by the GRAC will be finalised over the coming months. Proposal development and procurement processes will be revised to ensure research investment is aligned with the nominated priorities.
