Initial findings show benefits of controlled trafffic for intensive vegetable production
Controlled traffic farming (CTF) keeps all paddock traffic in the same wheel tracks, thereby separating compacted traffic zones from soil used for growing crops, and providing a wide range of benefits for crop production. Benefits observed in research and commercial practice in the grain and sugar industries include reduced soil erosion, more efficient energy, water and fertiliser use, improved soil structure, organic matter and timeliness, and increased productivity (Bowman 2008; Lamers et al. 1986; McPhee et al. 1995; Stewart et al. 1997; Vermeulen et al. 2007).
Use of CTF in the Australian grain and sugar industries has increased in recent years as the benefits have become more widely recognized. The uptake of CTF in the intensive vegetable industry is almost non-existent for a number of reasons, including diversity and incompatibility of current equipment, and often, a diversity of ownership arrangements (e.g. private, contractor and company-based machines) requiring industry-wide involvement for effective change.
Recent research in vegetables in Tasmania has provided evidence of improved soil conditions through the use of controlled traffic, while on-farm demonstrations have identified a number of factors that need to be addressed for practical adoption of the technique. Issues to be resolved for successful adoption of CTF in vegetable production include tracking stability on compacted wheel tracks, and implement working and track width compatibility.Funding
Horticulture Innovation Australia
History
Publication title
Proceedings of 5th World Congress on Conservation AgriculturePagination
1-4Department/School
Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)Event title
World Congress on Conservation AgricultureEvent Venue
Brisbane, AustraliaDate of Event (Start Date)
2011-09-26Date of Event (End Date)
2011-09-29Rights statement
Copyright 2011 The AuthorsRepository Status
- Open