Browsing by Author "Evers, A"

Now showing 1 - 5 of 5

Making the good better
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2017) Evers, A
When it comes to putting in place a new farming system in order to improve soil health and gain the associated benefits, it can seem a long and arduous journey. But for those who have implemented the learnings of the Sugar Yield Decline Joint Venture, it's been a journey worth taking.
Masterclasses in soil health and soil biology for the sugar industry : Final report 2016/025
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2018) Stirling, G; Evers, A; Young, A; Anderson, J; Garcia-Cuenca, S
A total of 252 sugar growers, productivity services staff and others attended a series of Master Classes in Soil Health/Soil Biology that were held in 2017 and 2018. During those classes they had the opportunity to see some of the microscopic organisms that are found in soil and learn how sugar farming systems could be modified to improve soil biological health. The classes were run by Dr Graham Stirling (Biological Crop Protection), Dr Anthony Young (University of Queensland), Dr Jay Anderson (University of Queensland) and Mr Sebastien Garcia-Cuenca (Sugar Research Australia). However, the highlight of each class was the presentation by one of three growers: Ashley Petersen, Tony Chapman and Simon Mattsson. They explained how they were able to modify their farming system and discussed the soil health and economic benefits they had obtained. Each class concluded with a discussion on how growers could move forward and improve the health of their soils. The process involved identifying the key soil constraints that were limiting productivity; developing an action plan to rectify the problems; modifying the farming system in some way; and then instigating a monitoring program to confirm that benefits had been obtained. Feedback from the participants indicated that the classes were a resounding success. Comments were overwhelmingly positive and compliments such as “excellent course: engaging and interesting”, “the use of microscopes, practical application was great!” and “continue this every year!” were received. Those who attended clearly enjoyed the classes and most indicated that they were willing to accept the challenge of implementing a soil improvement plan.
Nitrogen - one piece of the puzzle
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2015) Evers, A
The Burdekin is well-known for its cane fields, mango trees and idyllic fishing spots. It is also home to RP20, a collaborative research project funded by the Department of Environment and Heritage Protection.
RP20 - How one trial has changed a mindset
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2017) Evers, A
Collaborators in the RP20 project in the Burdekin speak in this article about the success of the project. The RP20 project began with on goal in mind - to validate the SIX EASY STEPs method for calculating the amount of Nitrogen needed to grow a crop of cane across the major soil types in the Burdekin.
Science in the field - anatomy of a trial
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2016) Evers, A
Over the past four years participants of the Burdekin Nitrogen Trials (RP20) have gone from sceptics to passionate supporters of the SIX EASY STEPS (TM) guidelines for nitrogen application. This can be partly explained by the way in which the trials on their farms have been carried out.