Minimum Tillage Crop Establishment

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