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Background

The Branched Broomrape Eradication Program, co-ordinated by the South Australian Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC) aims to eradicate branched broomrape from the infestation in the South Australian Murray Mallee. It also aims to prevent the spread and further establishment of broomrape in South Australia. Broomrapes, (Orobanche species), are parasitic weeds of broadleaf plants. The potential impact of broomrape is very serious in terms of both production losses and threats to export markets.

Our Role

Rural Solutions SA was contracted by DWLBC to fnd out:

• Whether land holders in the region have been adequately engaged and involved in the program
• If they had any problems with the engagement process
• And if so, how these could be rectifed.
  

To achieve this, RSSA consultants:

• Reviewed all the documents associated with land holder engagement and involvement
• Held individual meetings with landholders and focus group sessions
• Sent out written questionnaires  
• Interviewed Rural Counsellors, Field Offcers and Program Administrators.

Outcomes

Social research skills enabled both quantitative and qualitative data to be analysed and used to develop indicators of successful engagement. These were applied to the program outcomes and presented as a report with recommendations for the Steering Committee. The Steering Committee indicated that the report will be highly useful in formulating their future strategy.

Contact: Jason Downs

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