An Assessment of the Economic, Environmental and Social Impacts of the Ricecheck Program

Ricecheck, a best management practices extension program for rice production in Australia, was developed by the NSW Department of Primary Industries advisory staff, Finley, in 1986. The program is based on eight best management practice recommendations called ‘Key Checks’ that are considered essential for achieving high yields. Economic analysis of the program reveals that there are significant financial, social and environment benefits from the adoption of the program. The results further reveal that the funds invested since 1986 by both NSW Department of Primary Industries and the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation have been sound investments.