BREAKING: Renowned soil scientist Dr. Ian Holford, whose groundbreaking research has significantly shaped agricultural practices in Australia, has passed away at the age of 92. He died on January 10, 2026, after nearly six decades of dedicated service at the Tamworth Agricultural Research Station.
Dr. Holford’s legacy in the field of soil science is monumental. He began his career with the NSW Department of Agriculture in September 1964, emerging as a principal research scientist whose work has had lasting implications for farmers and agricultural policies across the nation.
Born on November 27, 1933, Dr. Holford’s academic journey led him to the University of Sydney, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture in 1954. He later completed a Master’s degree in Agricultural Science in 1964 and obtained his PhD from the University of London’s Imperial College in 1973. His research at the historic Rothamsted Research Station in the UK significantly influenced his work back in Australia, particularly in pasture nutrition.
In a statement, longtime colleague Graham Crocker described Dr. Holford as a prolific researcher, noting that he authored around 90 papers throughout his career. His innovative long-term rotation experiments drew inspiration from Rothamsted’s Park Grass trial, one of the oldest ecological experiments in the world, which started in 1856.
Dr. Holford’s extensive research focused on the fertility of soils and the effects of phosphorus and sulfur on pastures, especially in the New England Tablelands region. His work included crucial studies on the use of legumes like lucerne to enhance nitrogen nutrition in cereal crops, a practice that has benefited Australian agriculture for decades.
His findings demonstrated that healthy lucerne pastures could significantly increase cereal yields and quality for subsequent years. As noted by his son, Peter Holford, these projects are some of the longest-running trials in the country, showcasing Dr. Holford’s commitment to advancing agricultural science.
In recognition of his impactful contributions, Dr. Holford was awarded a Rockefeller Fellowship, highlighting his influence not just in agricultural science but also in public health spheres.
Dr. Holford is survived by his children Jenny, David, Stephen, and Peter. His first wife, Gwen, passed away in 1999, and he later married Eunice Orr in 2000. A funeral service will be held at St John the Evangelist Anglican Church on January 28, 2026, at 10:30 AM.
In a rapidly changing agricultural landscape, Dr. Holford’s research remains a cornerstone for sustainable practices, echoing the importance of soil health in food security and environmental stewardship. His passing marks a significant loss for the scientific community and the agricultural sector alike. As the world continues to grapple with agricultural challenges, his work will undoubtedly inspire future generations of researchers and practitioners.
