Summary

This impact evaluation summarises the outcomes of CRCNA project: A.2.2021083 Grain and Graze North: Dual-purpose peanuts, which evaluated the potential for peanuts to be grown as both a forage crop and nut-producing crop in northern Australia. Field trials across Queensland and the Northern Territory showed that peanuts can produce valuable early-season biomass for livestock feed while still delivering nut yields for feed or human consumption.

The research demonstrated that early biomass harvest within 6–8 weeks of planting can reduce crop risk from drought or pests while providing high-quality feed. Trials also identified strong variation between peanut varieties, with the breeding line UF-75 showing promising performance for dual-purpose systems.

The project confirmed the feed value of peanut biomass and by-products and developed tools to support grower decision-making, including a dual-purpose peanut gross margin calculator. The research also highlighted opportunities to integrate peanuts into grazing systems and tropical cropping systems such as sugarcane and cotton.

These findings support the potential expansion of peanut production across northern Australia, while enabling new industry opportunities in livestock feed, peanut oil and value-added products.