High Residue Zero-till Farming Systems in Central West NSW: the Strip and Disc System

The strip and disc farming system is intended to maximise crop residue by reducing disturbance to crop material resulting in delayed decomposition.

From the research and findings observed while travelling as well as experiences on the authors own farm (due to travel restrictions from Covid19), it can be concluded that the strip and disc farming system will increase ground cover and crop residue on the soil surface when compared to traditional zero tillage farming systems. With this comes a range of benefits including increasing infiltration and storage of rainfall and increasing water use efficiency to grow more crop per drop. This will increase profitability of farmers, particularly in moisture limited environments. The system is not without its challenges, but these can be overcome with management techniques and agronomic advice. More research must be done to quantify the benefits as well as an economic analysis to provide clear economic benefits.

The strip and disc system is compatible with sprinkler and drip irrigated cotton, as well as dryland cotton production by increasing moisture storage and water use efficiency and profitability, but not with conventional furrow irrigation due to the tillage requirements of the system.