Adoption of an optimal season length for increased industry profitability : SRDC Final report BSS264

Abstract

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.

A collaborative partnership developed among BSES Limited, CANEGROWERS Herbert River, QMCHA, CSR Sugar, and other research and extension organisations to investigate opportunities to improve monetary returns from the harvested crop. A consultative group was established to guide the research and implementation of the outcomes of the project; this group contained representatives from BSES, CANEGROWERS Herbert River, QMCHA, CSR Sugar, HCPSL and CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems.

The project developed information packages and tools to assist with the decision-making process on when to harvest particular blocks on farms, optimum season start and finish times for different areas, and opportunities manage cane to maximise CCS, particularly for early harvest.