A BODALLIN family’s use of variable rate technology (VRT) to minimise input costs and increase profitability is featured in the latest edition of the Grains Research and Development Corporation’s (GRDC) magazine Ground Cover.
To help reduce the impact of dry seasons, John and Tim Butcher have implemented changes to their farming systems including VRT and site-specific delivery of seed and fertiliser, across part of their program.
“Our management has vastly increased, but I believe the time spent so far will be worth it,” Tim Butcher said.
“If we can save $20 per hectare across 4000ha, particularly in a dry year, that’s substantial money.”
Other stories particularly relevant to Western Australian in Ground Cover include climate studies, grain storage hygiene, and water use efficiency research.
As well as the Butchers, WA growers featured in the magazine include Stott and Charmaine Redman, of Hopetoun, and John and Emma Scotney, of Badgingarra.
The November/December edition of Ground Cover will be mailed out in early November. Growers can sign up for Ground Cover or download articles from the GRDC website at www.grdc.com.au.
