Private Forestry
Private forestry in the Wimmera is not extensive, due mainly to the low annual rainfall occurring throughout much of the semi-arid region. Most plantation forests, such as Radiata Pine and Blue Gum, require at least 600 mm mean annual rainfall to become economically viable. Therefore, there are only 176 000 hectares of usable land available for this purpose within the region.
However, some species (such as Black Wattle) may be successfully grown as a farm forestry venture in rainfall areas of 500-600 mm. The West Wimmera is a slightly higher rainfall area which includes woodchipping development, and production of high value Red Gum furniture in Edenhope. Further potential exists for development of plantations, especially if combined with animal production. Other species with commercial potential in this region are also outlined in the above mentioned private forestry link.
Related Links
The Department of Primary Industries (DPI) website has a number of Farm Forestry Information Notes (that cover General Farm Forestry, Pests and Disease, Planning and Establishment, Species and Stand Management).
The Farm Forestry in the Wimmera website (external link) provides information on farm forestry in the region, including Wimmera farm forestry action plan; Forestcare - private native forestry; saline agroforestry project and low rainfall silviculture project.
© The State of Victoria, 1996 - 2008.
This document was last reviewed on 01/10/2008