Dr Ayers, who retired last month, had been at the Glen Innes station for 20 years and received international recognition as an authority on plant improvement of perennial pasture legumes specialising in breeding white clover (Trifolium repens) and birdsfoot trefoil (Lotus corniculatus).

Widespread DPI redundancies over the last 18 months were cause for concern and despite previous reports there would be no staff losses in Glen Innes the NSW DPI have confirmed that Dr Ayers position will not be filled, leaving all of the Glen Innes research in the hands of fellow agronomist Carol Harris.

“Dr Ayers’ position will not be filled with exactly the same role, however negotiations are continuing with various DPI research partners to continue the white clover research program he started,” a DPI media spokesperson said.

“Research will also continue into perennial pastures, another of his areas of specific expertise.”

The announcement was met with disappointment from local farmers. “One can only be disappointed,” NSW Farmers Association local branch chairman Dan McAlary said. “There is a valid role for such research that is ultimately a public benefit which is gained by having the results of the research in the public domain,” he said.

Glen Innes Severn Deputy Mayor and local grazier Col Price also felt the news was disheartening, particularly as climate change meant research into hardier pasture species was vital and the place of pastures in the carbon cycle was still being understood.

“Given the critical role pastures can play in carbon sequestrations it is very disappointing. The fact that the station has produced internationally significant results should mean that it should continue to be funded,” Cr Price said.

Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay was also against the decision and said he would be discussing the staff reductions with the Minister for Primary Industries.