Local farmers lend a hand
Text and photographs by Jacqueline Wilson
A SMALL group of SFS members volunteered to assist with the installation of long-term run-off collection sumps on the stubble research plots at the Hamilton Branch trial site this month.
The sumps will prove essential in capturing run-off, which will be analysed for dissolved phosphorus and nitrogen as part of the branch’s current research project.
With funding through the National Landcare Programme (NLP), the Hamilton Branch has established a 4ha trial on the SFS site near Dunkeld to examine the impact of different stubble retention systems on nutrient leakage.
While lower than average rainfall throughout much of last season has restricted run-off levels to date, the sumps will ensure accurate collection of any available run-off.
Enquiries, information and comments to:
Michelle McClure
Hamilton Branch Coordinator
Southern Farming Systems
P: 03 5572 3426
M: 0417 228 233
E: mmclure@sfs.org.au
Information current at April 2008
