Grassland Farm Walk
Grassland Farm Walk –
Correcting Soil Damage Workshop
Wednesday 31st March 2010
In recent years some seasons have been wetter than normal leading to soil damage through using heavy machinery or having livestock on wet soils. This has led to the inevitable soil compaction leading to a downward spiral of smaller crops producing poorer root growth which explores less of the soil and hence increasing risk of further soil compaction.
The workshop will look at a number of fields to compare and contrast the soil structures that can be found in the area. On this walk we will:
- show how to identify soil compaction using spades and probes and determine what type of cultivation is required
- how to use the ‘think soils’ booklet to aid identification
- determine what would be the best depth to cultivate in order to prevent restrictions of root development through subsurface pans from machinery or livestock
- methods of improving structure for better yields
- how to record compaction occurring so that these records can meet the new Soil Protection Review
- How to identify the correct soil type – bring a soil sample from your own farm so that your soil texture can be accurately assessed for the Soil Protection Review
The farm walk will be held at the farm of Peter Pearson; Dunwood Farm, Dunwood Lane, Longsdon, Stoke on Trent, Staffordshire, ST9 9QW
The walk will start at 10.30am and aim to finish by 3.30pm, and lunch will be provided.
Thank you to the Environment Agency for their sponsorship of this event which means it will be free of charge to attend.
Booking is essential as places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.
To reserve your place please contact either:
Staffordshire Rural Hub on 01785 255305 email: debbie@staffordshireruralhub.org
or
Jenny Gunnell at Warwickshire Rural Hub on: 02476 858 244 / 07540419836
Email: jennyg@rase.org.uk
Please ensure you have clothing and footwear for the outside
