The field days, organised by Industry and Investment NSW, will focus on the identification of wetland plants, where they grow and why, their importance and management, and how to distinguish similar species.

The Macquarie Marsh field day will be held at The Mole on Thursday December 3.

The field days are free but, bookings are essential. Phone Industry and Investment NSW at Dubbo on 6881 1270.

The days will run from 8am to noon,with morning tea supplied.

Participants will need to bring their own lunch, chair and sun protection.

They can also bring wetland plants (preferably flowering) for identification.

“Knowing what wetland plant species you have and how they are affected by water and grazing is a vital step in the sustainable management of these wetlands,” said I&I NSW project officer Harry Rose.

“Understanding your species is important in assessing management tactics and potential production for these wetlands.”

An agronomist and beef cattle officer at the field days will also provide an opportunity to discuss the implications for livestock performance and management and other issues.

Mr Rose said the vegetation of the Gwydir Wetlands and Macquarie Marshes is under stress due to shifting water regimes and ongoing dry conditions.

“In an effort to reduce the impact of grazing on the wetland vegetation, I&I NSW is consulting with landholders and other stakeholders to prepare useful management resources for graziers as part of the NSW Wetland Recovery Program,” Mr Rose said.

“One of the largest knowledge gaps identified has been an understanding of the grazing and conservation values of wetland plants and their management needs.

“To address this issue, I&I NSW has put together a guide for landholders that is titled Glove Box guide to plants of the Gwydir Wetlands and Macquarie Marshes.

Mr Rose said understanding your wetland plant species can also allow you to assess potential production problems. For example, many landholders may be familiar with the scouring of cattle caused by lippia.

“Feed data collected while writing the guide has shown the reason for this could be due to a good dose of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate).

“In spring, magnesium and sulfur concentration peaked at between four to eight times the maximum tolerable levels for cattle.”