معرفی
Derrick Moot is a Professor in the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Lincoln University's Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences. He leads the Dryland Pastures Research Programme, focusing on enhancing water and nitrogen use efficiency in dryland farming systems through legume-based pastures. His work has transformed agricultural practices in drought-prone regions of New Zealand and internationally.
Professor Moot's educational background includes a PhD from Lincoln University and a BAgrSc(Hons) from the University of Canterbury.
His research interests center on dryland agriculture, with particular expertise in lucerne agronomy, pasture science, and climate change adaptation. Moot believes that 'excellent agricultural science only happens in the field,' emphasizing practical, field-based research that directly benefits farmers. His work examines how environmental factors influence plant growth and development, developing integrated farm systems that enhance resilience in summer-dry and drought-prone regions.
Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on sustainable pasture systems, climate change adaptation, and precision agriculture. His work spans from fundamental plant physiology to practical farm applications, with particular emphasis on lucerne cultivation, nutrient management, and innovative pasture mixtures that improve productivity while reducing environmental impacts. Moot's research demonstrates a consistent commitment to solving real-world agricultural challenges through scientifically rigorous field studies.
- Beef & Lamb LNZ Sheep Industry Science Award (2017)
- New Zealand Grasslands Trust Ray Brougham Award for Impact on New Zealand Agriculture (2016)
- Sir Arthur Ward Award NZIAHS (2007)
- National Tertiary Teaching Excellence Award (2004)
- Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Agricultural & Horticultural Science
Professor Moot has supervised numerous postgraduate students across various agricultural topics, including wheat production, pasture establishment, and plant physiology. His Dryland Pastures Research Team maintains strong engagement with the farming community through a weekly lucerne management text service reaching over 1,000 recipients and more than 135 field days conducted since 2012. The team works closely with Beef+LambNZ and other agricultural organizations to translate research findings into practical farming applications.
The Dryland Pastures Research Programme operates as a collaborative network connecting researchers, farmers, and industry partners across New Zealand and internationally. The team has particularly strong connections with agricultural communities in Patagonia, Argentina, Chile, Victoria, and New South Wales, where their lucerne research has transformed local farming practices. Their work integrates plant science, soil science, and animal production to develop resilient farming systems for dryland environments.