FWPA received a very strong response to the recent call out to Australia’s scientific community for the submission of grower research project concepts.
Research applicants were asked to align their initial proposals with FWPA’s forestry investment plans, developed in consultation with Australia’s commercial growers to inform investment in RD&E activities, and one or more of the following key programs:
- Program 3 – assisting value chain optimisation
- Program 4 – increasing resource availability and reducing risk
- Program 5 – impacting decision-making and industry capability
In response to the initial proposals received, FWPA Forest Research Manager Jodie Mason commented, “We are incredibly pleased with the level of response from research providers with the focus on testing and developing new technologies to support forest and value chain management.
“The initial proposals include topics as diverse as molecular techniques to support forest biosecurity, remote sensing and deep learning for various applications from weed detection to workplace health and safety, adaptation to climate change, management of plantation harvest residues, and biological control of significant weeds.”
“We are now looking forward to evaluating the completed proposals.”
Applicants have worked with interested grower groups to develop full proposal submissions for their RD&E projects, ensuring relevant issues are addressed and the proposals can deliver value for the industry.
The proposal evaluation process will be overseen by the FWPA Grower Research Advisory Committee (GRAC) and will incorporate a formal review of benefit for cost and scientific merit. Applicants will have the opportunity to respond to questions and comments from the Scientific Advisory Panel in early December and late January 2023, if required.
Applicants will be notified of the success of their proposals by early March 2023.
Jodie Mason is available to discuss your proposal on (+61) 427 357 867 or Jodie.mason@fwpa.com.au