Shropshire Soils Group Event - Think soils for higher yeilds - Correcting Soil Damage Farm Walk
12th March 2010 from 10.30am – 3.30pm
at
Hall Farm, Cruckmeole, Hanwood, Shrewsbury, SY5 8JN
In recent years some summers have been wetter than normal leading to delayed harvests, and on many fields, soil damage through using heavy harvesting machinery 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.
This workshop will look at a number of fields to compare and contrast the soil structures that can be found in the area. At this workshop 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
- How to set up and use a subsoiler to get the best from it
- 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 walk will start at 10.30am and aim to finish at 3.30pm. Lunch will be provided.
Booking is essential as places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first servd basis.
To reserve your place at this workshop or to join the Shropshire Soils Group, please contact us on 01939 262106 or email shropsruralhub@wnsc.ac.uk
Thank you to the Environment Agency for their sponsorship of this event which means it is free of charge to attend.
