Free fertiliser demonstration days are available for growers seeking the latest information to optimise fertiliser use.
To help obtain best practice fertiliser application, the Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) is holding another series of the popular Accu-Spread Demonstration days in the South-West and Great Southern.
DAFWA development officer Peta Richards said understanding spread patterns and fertiliser particle size could result in significant savings and benefits to growers.
“The free demonstration days, to be held in February, provide a great opportunity to learn about the Accu-Spread testing regime and how to make adjustments to machinery to optimise performance and improve productivity,” Ms Richards said.
“When you consider your fertiliser bill, how your fertiliser is spread should be a high priority.
“At last year’s demonstration days, growers were surprised to learn that only a quarter of the machinery tested had satisfactory spread patterns. This has some serious implications for fertiliser management and spreading costs.
“Accu-Spread specialist Russell Nicol will again be conducting the 2014 workshops and six participants at each location will have the opportunity to have their spreader assessed free of charge. There will also be limited opportunity to have your spreader calibrated.”
DAFWA will be co-ordinating these workshops in eight locations throughout the South-West and Great Southern regions, with sites chosen depending on demand. There are limited places available for free spreader testing and calibration.
Early registration is essential and can be made by contacting Peta Richards on +61 (0)8 9777 0144 or at nutrientmapping@agric.wa.gov.au
Media contacts: Jodie Thomson/Dionne Tindale, media liaison +61 (0)8 9368 3937