Investment

The northern grains industry seeks a robust summer pulse that is easier to manage and more adaptable than current options, particularly for the drier and hotter regions of south-west QLD and north-west NSW. In these more variable climates, mungbeans and soybean are not viable options, nor is dryland cotton.

GRDC commissioned a consultancy to assess the business case for pigeonpea to fill the role of a summer pulse for the northern region. This business case and consequent industry engagement with stakeholders pointed to potential for pigeonpea to become a viable cropping option. However, in order to establish a minimum viable industry, growers require demonstration of viable and profitable varieties with evidence of a pathway to production success.

There is an opportunity to conduct preliminary pilot agronomic field trials to inform the direction and need of future research using new pigeonpea varieties (currently in bulk up phase) developed to thrive in the target region.