Soil Structure Day Great Success
19 September 2007
“Managing Soil Structure for crop production in the high rainfall zone” was the title of the workshop held at Southern Farming Systems Inverleigh site on the 19th September, 2007.
This was an extremely successful day with almost 100 people attending.
The day focused on soil structure, how do I know if I have a problem and then what can I do about it. Guest speakers included Professor Gordon Spoor (UK). Gordon has 45 years of research and education experience working on soil and water management problems in the UK and overseas . His research has been applied to developing management practices to minimise and avoid soil compaction and how to reinvigorate compacted soils. Gordon gave a very informative presentation which set the scene for farmers and researchers to think about how these options apply to their own soils. Management options included adjustments to tyre width and pressures, deep ripping, and controlled traffic.
Other speakers included senior soil scientists Mark Imhof and Richard McEwan from the Department of Primary Industry who also gave very informative presentations on how to access more information about soil management and about the typical characteristics of soils in the Victorian high rainfall zone.
In the afternoon people formed groups and rotated through a variety of different work stations where they were introduced to the concepts of different soil strengths and structures, the effect of organic matter in the soil, how to use a soil penetrometer, a demonstration of a mobile, infield soil health kit, and of course a visit to a sit pit!. Overall a very enjoyable and informative day.
For more information on the Healthy Soils Program contact Louisa Ferrier, Southern Farming Systems 03 5229 0566 or 0439 339 433
Karen Haigh
Geelong Branch Coordinator
Southern Farming Systems
P: 03 5229 0566
E: khaigh@sfs.org.au
or
Rohan Wardle
Research & Extension Agronomist
Southern Farming Systems
M: 0438 343 079
E: rwardle@sfs.org.au
