Adoption of practices to mitigate harvest losses : final report 2016/955

Abstract

Harvesting Best Practice (HBP) is predicated by two essential objectives: 1. Determining the critical point where harvesting losses can be minimised and delivered yields improved to achieve the best economic return for the grower and harvesting operation; and 2. Improved cane quality, which is determined by sound billet quality with an acceptable level of Extraneous Matter (EM). Despite significant research into the impact on harvested cane yields of higher harvester pour rates and fan speeds, use of HBP recommendations prior to the commencement of the adoption program across the industry was relatively low. Full HBP adoption across the Australian Sugarcane industry could substantially increase industry revenue with no necessity for horizontal expansion (increase in cane land).