Managing for stubble retention

One of the objectives of sustainable farming systems is to retain as much cover on the soil as possible – this helps to maintain soil structure and protects the soil from erosion. Improving productivity, maintaining soil structure, and stabilising fragile soils are some of the desired aims of farming. Sound rotations, reduced tillage, effective use of herbicides, maintenance of ground cover and careful management of stock are part of the management process used in achieving these goals. This Bulletin provides an introduction to stubble retention systems. Its purpose is to create an awareness of the benefits and principles of stubble retention – and describe ways to overcome the problems. The Bulletin focuses on the desirability of stubble retention in the farming system, while providing a set of guidelines on how to estimate cover and manage stubble so it will fit into a management system. Later publications will involve machinery decision making, machinery conversions, further technological advances and financial aspects of stubble retention systems.https://library.dpird.wa.gov.au/bulletins/1137/thumbnail.jp