Research
**Newly released**
Improved Whole-farm Planning for Mixed-enterprise Systems in Australia using a Four-stage Stochastic Model with Recourse
Young et al
A paper comparing more common deterministic steady state model with stochastic model. Results reveal key differences in farm management and profit when weather variation is considered.
Modelling for Dummies
John & Michael Young
An overview of whole farm optimisation modeling and its purpose.
This also serves as a great introduction to AFO.
More key research
Mathematical programming options for farm optimisation: A recommendation
Michael Young
This article draws on modelling results and the authors’ experience to provide recommendations regarding the optimal modelling framework for different projects.
Farm optimisation modelling to improve rotation choice on a mixed enterprise farm in a variable environment
Michael Young
This article examines how farmers can boost income and/or avoid losses through optimal rotation selection and tactical adjustments in response to unfolding weather conditions.
Confinement feeding: A case study analysis
Michael Young
This article provides a one year case study analysis of confinement feeding on four properties in the Great Southern region of WA. The analysis was completed for Stirlings to Coast grower group with MLA funding.
Understanding stocking rate
Michael Young
This article reviews an array of work examining stocking rate and provides a detailed understanding of stocking rate and the factors that affect the optimal rate. This paper will help readers identify the optimal stocking rate for their circumstances.
The full published version can be found here.
Understanding the value of feed
Michael Young
This article examines the economic value of an extra 100 kg/ha of pasture during the growing season. This project was funded by Agpro Management.
Analysis features:
- Results for The Great Southern and Central Wheatbelt.
- Key drivers of feed value.
Economic valuation of saltbush for the Wheatbelt area
Michael Young
This article is made up of three components (i) farmer feedback on their saltbush experiences. (ii) sensitivity to understand the value of saltbush in different scenarios. (iii) economic evaluation of three on-farm saltbush case studies.
Drought response
John Young
This report provides information to respond to poor seasons.
- At the same age which are the higher priority to keep, fat or thin ewes?
- Does it pay to maintain ewes using grain this year?
- For early lambing flocks that will only have dry feed from now till next lambing, will it pay to have ewes in confinement for 12 months?
- Does it pay to put weight on ewes using grain feeding?
- What is the priority for the limited green feed this spring
Economic implications of the loss of glyphosate and paraquat on Australian mixed enterprise farms
Alison Walsh
This paper looks at the topical issue of the loss of glyphosate and paraquat herbicides in broad acre farming systems. The paper details management changes that would likely be implemented to best adapt to proposed regulations and restrictions. Published article can be found here
The value of sowing cereals into pastures
Michael Young
This article examines the economics of “bulking” (sow cereals into) pastures. The following questions are addressed:
- What is it worth to sow cereals into pastures?
- What seeding rate should I use?
- How many hectares should I sow?
- If I sow cereals into my pasture do I need to alter my livestock management?
- What is the cost – benefit break down of sowing cereals into pastures?
An economic analysis of sheep flock structures for mixed enterprise Australian farm businesses
Michael Young
This analysis thoroughly examines the effect of different sheep flock structures on farm management and profitability in the south-west of the Western Australian Wheatbelt. It includes sensitivity analyse for; price change, sheep management and crop management. Published article can be found here
Effectiveness of a Supply Chain at Out-of-Season Lamb Production
Michael Young
This report evaluates the effectiveness of a supply chain at producing out-of-season heavy export lambs by providing an analysis of feed allocation within the supply chain, a grazing pressure sensitivity and an evaluation into the profitability of chaff piles and crop grazing.
MIDAS Farm Relations Analysis
Michael Young
This report quantifies the farm interactions represented in MIDAS, to help users understand and interpret results. It also provides an understanding of how each aspect of the farm system contributes to farm profit.
Youngs Farm Analysis provides relevant research to farmers and industry professionals. Take a look at some of the previous work completed by the team and others for free.
Submissions welcome (preferably a 2 or 3 page summary). You will be credited as the author.
Feel free to get in contact with us if you have any further questions about any of the research.