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The herbage production of mixed native mulga grassland communities, all differing in basal area, was measured between October and March each year over a four year period. The four seasons differed in total precipitation and length of, as well as continuity of the growing period. Basal area was found to be well correlated with peak standing grass biomass and with litter and root yield. Furthermore, basal area was found to be an adequate index of potential grass production irrespective of year. Basal area could be used as a determinant for condition assessment of these grassland communities growing on infertile soils, as well as an indicator of stocking rate. Photographic standards for field use are presented.