Minimum Tillage Crop Establishment
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Minimum Tillage Crop Establishment
What is expected of a TDF Host?
To host a minimum of 8 groups of visiting farmers and provide a demonstration of the specified technologies.
What should the Host expect in return?
- Technical support from a CAFRE Technologist
- IT and other equipment to support the delivery of demonstrations
- A Support Assistant to assist at each visit
- A £600 payment per demonstration hosted
To become a technology demonstration farm for this theme, applicants must be able to demonstrate the following innovative technologies:
- Non Inversion Tillage
Using methods other than ploughing to establish crops.
- Using IPM principles to manage pests, weeds and diseases
Monitoring and utilising cultivations as required to culturally control pests
Applicants may be shortlisted based on being able to demonstrate the use of the following technologies:
- Establish crops via strip tillage or direct drilling
Using a strip or direct drill to establish crops directly into stubble or cover crops.
- Cover Crops
Utilising cover crops within the rotation to improve soil health.
- Evaluating Crop Establishment
Measuring crop parameters against benchmark figures. Using thousand grain weight (TGW) to calculate seed rate. Carrying out plant counts to work out % establishment.
To view the terms and conditions and for a more detailed description of these required and desirable technologies, click here.
Applications are now open and will close at 4.00pm on Friday 23rd April 2021. Applicants will then be shortlisted and those selected will undergo an on-farm suitability assessment