Completed projects and reports

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Sugar Research Australia, Sugar Research Development Corporation and BSES reports from completed research projects and papers.

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Optimising productivity and variety recommendations through analysis of mill data : ASSCT peer reviewed paper
(ASSCT, 2016) Stringer, JK; Croft, B; Di Bella, L; Sefton, M; Nielsen, R; Larsen, P; De Lai, R; Davies, I
Production peaked in the Herbert River mills in 2005 but since then productivity has declined. Analysis of mill data in the Herbert has successfully identified groups of farms with similar productivity over time and the major factors associated with these groupings. The major finding of the study was that those growers who have adopted new farming systems had significantly higher productivity than those who use traditional practices. The impact of the Pachymetra resistance of previous varieties on yield of the current crop was also significant, suggesting this may be a major factor contributing to poor ratooning in the Herbert. In the small farm size groups, low and high performing growers had similar levels of % plant, % young crops, % old crops and % old varieties. However, the low and high performing groups varied significantly in terms of new varieties, suggesting that the small farm size low performing group were not adopting the new, more productive varieties to the same extent as the small farm size high performing group. Manager’s age was also an important factor associated with cane yields. Growers who regularly (five or six years out of six) obtained clean seed had more than 10% higher yields than growers who never or infrequently obtained clean seed and greater than 6% higher yields than growers who only obtained clean seed in three or four years out of six. Results from this research has allowed the Herbert Cane Productivity Services Limited (HCPSL) to design targeted extension strategies with the region. This will result in better variety recommendations and increase productivity.
Spatially explicit estimation of Achievable Yield Potential – An improved basis for fertilizer management: final report 2015/070
(Sugar Research Australia Limited, 2017) Bramley, R
Current practice in implementing the SIX EASY STEPS (6ES) is to use the ‘district yield potential’ (DYP) to guide development of nitrogen (N) fertilizer recommendations. However, because both land (soil, topography) and weather/climate may be strongly spatially variable at district scale, yield may also vary rendering use of DYP as sub-optimal. This project explored finer-scale alternatives to DYP as input to 6ES using spatial analysis of mill data and also data collected using yield monitors. The project was focussed in the Herbert River district. Analysis of mill records over 7 seasons shows that there is a marked spatial variability in yield in the Herbert River district, with the patterns of this variation stable across seasons and crop class. Accordingly, we conclude that DYP is not appropriate as an input to 6ES. Rather, a block yield potential derived from a map of the maximum yield of first ratoon achieved over these 7 seasons is suggested as a better alternative; this map, which is derived from interpolated maps of first ratoon yield for each year for which data are available, can be readily updated as more data become available. Growers with access to yield mapping could readily adopt a similar means of estimating yield potential at the within-farm or within-field scale. However, it is unlikely that sufficient data are yet available to support this given that data from several seasons are needed for yield zone delineation. Whether at the within-region or within-farm or field scales, further location-specific refinement of the application of 6ES is possible with access to data on soil carbon (C) content, whether derived from regional soil survey or local soil testing. Similar analyses to those reported here could be readily conducted in other sugarcane growing regions. Likewise, examination of spatial variation in the other factors underpinning 6ES may also be valuable as the industry seeks to optimise its N use efficiency.
Adoption of an optimal season length for increased industry profitability : SRDC Final report BSS264
(BSES, 2007) Di Bella, LP; Cristaudo, A; Wood, AW
The project aimed to maximise commercial cane sugar (CCS), sugar yields (TSPH) and industry profitability in the Herbert region by exploiting regional variation in CCS, soil moisture and trafficability. There is significant potential to increase total sugar production, and individual grower and district CCS through better management of harvesting scheduling.
Final report SRDC Project CG013 Growers working together to improve water quality in the Herbert Sugar Industry
(2008) Wood, A; Wrigley, T; Phillips, K; Sheedy, P
The sugarcane area of the Herbert River district is located adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef (GBR). The quality of water entering the GBR lagoon from the Herbert district is one of the most important environmental issues facing the Herbert sugar industry. However, little data on water quality are available from catchments consisting entirely of sugarcane. This project was conducted to establish a number of water quality monitoring sites in relatively small catchments where the land use is solely sugarcane and where individual growers or groups of growers could measure the quality of water in farm drains using simple tools and relate it to their farming practices. Eleven growers volunteered to participate in the programme. They were keen to participate because they felt that sugarcane growers’ reputation of being good custodians of the land had been tarnished by various external studies of water quality and they were eager to demonstrate that their activities were not polluting drainage water. A series of suitable sites for taking and testing water samples were established and V notch weirs were inserted in the drains for the purpose of measuring rates of water flow. A series of simple tools were developed for measuring sediment and nutrients drainage water leaving the farms. An experienced water engineer who had worked in the district for many years agreed to coordinate the project and proceeded to train the growers involved. He also set up and equipped a water analysis laboratory so that the measurements taken by the growers could be validated. Occasional samples were also sent to a NATA accredited laboratory for further validation of the nutrient determinations but also for measurements of pesticide residues. The growers involved in the project have recorded water quality measurements for three years and have also maintained records of on-farm practices that may impact on water quality such as tillage, fertilising, land levelling and herbicide applications and other activities that may impact on water quality. The growers were provided with information on desirable water quality levels. If their measurements exceeded these levels, growers reacted quickly to seek possible explanations for the elevated readings. The project was evaluated at the commencement, mid-term and just before its conclusion. The growers involved developed a list of the critical factors that needed to be achieved in order for the project to be successful. The mid-term evaluation was conducted with members of the Project Consultative Group and the final evaluation was again conducted with the growers involved in the project. Feedback was generally positive but there were a few areas where things could have been improved. The project outcomes consisted largely of improved knowledge, particularly amongst the growers, of what simple techniques are available for measuring nutrients, pH, dissolved oxygen and turbidity of farm drainage water. Growers learnt what constituted high, medium and low levels for the different water quality parameters and developed a better understanding of the relationship between rainfall and discharge characteristics of drains on their farms. They improved their understanding 4 of the relationship between on-farm management practices and water quality and of the accuracy and reliability of the different tools used to measure water quality. An important outcome has been the continued engagement and support of growers involved with the project, and the engagement and support of regulatory and other government support agencies through the project consultative group. This is important for the next phase of the project which aims to expand from 11 growers to around 100 growers conducting water quality monitoring. The existence of a committed nucleus of growers will be essential for helping to inspire others to participate. Likely economic benefits of the project will be increased farm profitability arising from improved farm practices associated with better management of farm inputs such as fertilisers and herbicides. Reduced input costs arising from reductions in soil tillage and more targeted applications of nutrients and herbicides will also contribute. Environmental benefits will arise from improved water quality on farm and in the downstream ecosystem, and improved soil health arising from changes in farming practices. Social benefits will include the empowerment of growers, who are now armed with better information about their farm practices and the likely impacts on water quality; greater confidence amongst growers when interacting with government and environmental groups; and improved attitudes and engagement by growers in sustainable land management.
Implementation of controlled traffic farming of sugarcane in the Herbert River district : SRDC Grower Group Innovation Project Final report GGP003
(SRDC, 2007) Morris, E
The Pinnacle Precision Farming (PPF) Group was formed with the goal of implementing and benefiting from the principals of controlled traffic farming using techniques being used by the Sugar Yield Decline Joint Venture Team on a trial and demonstration plot located on the farm operated by Ed Morris located in Toobanna. However we could not envisage a Double Disc Opener Planter (DDOP) being viable unless it was able to successfully plant cane billets instead of using whole cane stalk planters as used by the SYDJV Team.
Assessment of NutriSmart, a new environmentally friendly fertiliser in the Herbert River sugar-growing region
(Sugar Research and Development Corporation (SRDC), 2006) Crisp, C
"In recent years Australian cane growers have sought to maintain viability and world competitiveness in an increasingly tougher export market environment by adopting new farming practises which are more profitable and sustainable” (www.canegrower.com.au). In addition the industry is confronting the ever increasing pressure of potential environmental issues, particularly with regards to nutrient losses and influence on sensitive ecosystems, such as the Great Barrier Reef Lagoon.
A reference booklet for canegrowers on the nutrition and fertilizing of sugarcane for different soil types
(2003) Wood, AW; Schroeder, BL; Stewart, RL; Roth, CH
A wide range of different soils are used for sugarcane production in the Herbert River district. An understanding of these differences both at district and farm levels will ensure that nutrient management reflects this diversity and enables profitable and sustainable sugarcane production. The Australian sugar industry has used a generalised, industry-wide set of fertiliser recommendations with no specific guidelines for different regions, climatic conditions or soil types. This booklet is a first attempt to produce specific management guidelines for all of the different soil types used for sugarcane production in a cane area. Twenty four different soil types have been identified in the sugarcane production area of the Herbert and have been mapped at a scale of 1:5000, which is appropriate for soil-specific management recommendations to be delivered at block level. Growers can currently access soil maps of their farms through Herbert Cane productivity Services Ltd. and plans are in place to provide all growers with the capability of printing their own soil maps. In the booklet each soil type is described in terms of its appearance, where it occurs in the landscape, and its chemical and physical properties. Guidelines for the management of nutrients, tillage, drainage and irrigation and the minimisation of environmental risks are provided for each soil type. These guidelines have been developed using research results from a companion SRDC funded project, BSS232 “Improved nutrient management in the Australian Sugar Industry”. The soil booklet produced in this project is likely to be the first of a number of regional soil management publications that are likely to be produced for the Australian Sugar Industry. The booklet is intended for use by cane growers and their advisers, and where possible the information is presented in as non-technical way as possible. This approach is particularly appropriate for the current situation of the sugar industry with continuing low sugar prices, the need to reduce production costs together with mounting environmental pressures which demand demonstration of responsible soil and nutrient management. The guidelines in this booklet are aimed at providing best practice soil and nutrient management for Herbert growers that will not only maintain or improve crop yields and soil fertility but will also provide opportunities for cost reduction whilst enhancing sustainability and delivering better environmental outcomes.
Improved harvesting efficiency in farming systems : SRDC Grower Group Innovation Project final report
(2007) Tabone, B
The aim of the project was to achieve more efficient harvesting within our group. We monitored the harvesting effort for each paddock to determine the levels of paddock efficiency and increase awareness of the results. The results from two seasons are as different as the weather conditions during the growing and the harvest. It can be noted the through put during both years in both crop configurations is less in the 2006 season. The 2006 season had a damp start and a very wet middle and a dry end (thank goodness) As a result, more engine hours per ton were required to harvest the crop. Wet field conditions and lower bin weights, equates to more trips for the haul outs realising a small increase in fuel consumption. The work efficiency is the relationship between total engine hours and total elevator hours expressed as a percentage. The elevator was running 5% longer while harvesting twin rows in 2006 which indicates a slower forward speed during cutting. To reward on farm efficiency, a new payment system needed to be formulated to achieve a harvester price differential. The payment system most widely accepted is the hourly rate as can be monitored easily and ratified by the growers. The growers would also get an instant benefit from any on farm improvements they made such as pipe crossings making hauls shorter and haul road improvements. Also, conditions change each year which makes it difficult to adopt any other formula which would be as indicative or relative to each situation.
Workshop on new technologies in sugarcane crop forecasting : SRDC Final report WS004
(2001) Wood, A; De Lai, R
Work over the last 3 years in the Herbert Resource Information Centre has demonstrated that it is possible to use remotely sensed satellite imagery to produce a reasonably accurate crop forecast provided there is limited ground truthing to validate spectral signatures. In both the 1999 and 2000 harvest seasons, the estimates derived from the Landsat TM images were closer to the actual yield for the Herbert than the crop estimates derived from conventional methods. SRDC agreed to fund a project in the Herbert involving the HRIC and the University of Queensland to develop the technology further (project UQ037 Development of an a11- weather sugarcane crop yield model using satellite image data). The project was led by Mr Mark Noonan who was employed by the HRlC and was doing this work as part of a Masters degree at UQ. CRC Sugar also agreed to provide funding to assist Mr Noonan with his Masters project. Mr Noonan left the HRIC in November 2000 and arrangements have been made to complete the project through the university. The project is due for completion in June 2001. In the last year there has been a large amount of interest in this methodology from other mill areas such as Mossman, Mulgrave and Mackay and all sugar mills are searching for ways of producing accurate crop estimates without having to simd out large numbers of people to inspect every block of cane on every farm. QSL have also' expressed interest in this technology given the importance of accurate and timely estimates of sugar production for their operation. Initially the HRlC agreed to assist some of the mills in using the model, but with the departure ofMr Noonan this is no longer possible. Some mills (and QSL) are now approaching a variety of commercial companies to see whether they are able to perfect this methodology and customize it for their specific requirements. With the HRlC being placed under increasing pressure from different users to provide advice and expertise, and with the HRlC Board having decided that they should not get involved in research and development, CRC Sugar was requested to coordinate an industry workshop which focused on new technologies in sugarcane crop forecastin
Quantifying and managing sources of sediments and nutrients in low-lying canelands : Project no CLW007 - final report
(2003) Roth, CH; Visser, F; Wasson, R; Reghenzani, J; Prosser, I
Queensland’s north-east coast are used for sugar production. Various studies investigating sediment discharge from catchments where sugar is an important land use have demonstrated that sediment export from cane lands often continues to be higher than from adjacent forested areas or other land uses. The main concern with the export of sediments is the loss of associated nutrients, in particular forms of phosphorus and nitrogen bound to the fine sediment fractions (suspended sediments), and the potential harm these materials might cause in rivers, wetlands and near shore marine ecosystems. Many growers are aware of these issues and have proactively engaged in a variety of activities and practices to reduce the likelihood of such environmental impacts, and the widespread adoption of trash blanket harvesting is testimony to this. However, there is still a lack of understanding on the exact amounts and sources of sediments and nutrients leaving cane lands. More importantly, growers lack information on practical solutions to reducing sediment export and where to target the most appropriate sediment control measures. In response, SRDC funded Project CLW007 with the aim to develop a robust understanding of sediment sources, transport pathways and sinks as the means to better target cane land management towards reducing sediment export. The approach chosen was to develop a sediment budget for representative areas of low-lying cane lands in the Herbert district. This approach has particular advantages for resource management purposes as it ensures that all components in a catchment sediment transport system are examined, so that important sediment sources and transport processes can be identified and management appropriately targeted. The bulk of the study was conducted in a 536 ha large subcatchment of Ripple Creek in the Lower Herbert, comprising 320 ha of low-lying floodplain soils under sugar and 216 ha of forested uplands. A range of monitoring methods were developed and implemented in order to capture the breadth of processes and to employ the most appropriate methods in each individual situation and best suited to each scale of measurement

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