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The BCG (Birchip Cropping Group and Wimmera Farming Systems) is a farmer-driven agricultural organisation operating as a not-for-profit incorporated association, conducting applied research and extension on all the major crops grown in the region. The Group’s purpose has been redefined since its inception and aims to investigate the critical success factors that ensure sustainable and profitable crop production systems.
The BCG has trial sites at several locations in the Mallee, Wimmera and North Central regions, covering all the major soil types and climate zones. The Group has 500 farm business members. These members direct the focus of all trial and extension activities through a Trials Subcommittee consisting of farmers, technical and industry representatives. Field days and information expos are consistently well attended, attracting in excess of 3500 visitors annually.Its main aims are:
• to demonstrate and develop better farming practices and technology for the main soil types in the Wimmera and Mallee (primarily on the Culgoa, Hopetoun and Tyrell Land Systems)
• to transfer information and knowledge to farmers and the agricultural community with the aims of improving productivity, profit and long term viability
• to draw together farmers, industry and government department representatives in the one resource area so that they may combine and interact to solve common agricultural problems.
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