In this special two-part episode recorded for the GRDC NGN project, Tanja Morgan and Chris Saunders from Uni SA's Agricultural Machinery Research and Design Center discuss optimising soil amelioration in typical mallee soils.

Initially recorded in late 2024 at a trial site in Copeville SA, they explore how different ripping configurations impact fuel efficiency and soil loosening. Six months later, they review the harvest results, focusing on yield responses, gross margins, and the return on investment of various setups.

The episode concludes with advice for growers on machine setup and the benefits of ripping in dry seasons.

00:00 Introduction to Soil Amelioration Project

00:17 Field Trials and Initial Observations

00:58 Discussion on Ripping Configurations

02:00 Economic Considerations and Efficiency

02:24 Soil Type and Tractor Performance

07:00 Harvest Results and Yield Analysis

10:30 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

11:09 Conclusion and Resources

This project was delivered in collaboration with UniSA's Agricultural Machinery Research and Design Centre and Frontier Farming Systems. 

Resources

GRDC Deep Ripping Efficiency Considerations Part 1 - click here

GRDC Deep Ripping Efficiency Considerations Part 2 - coming soon

Grower case study - Mick Farley, Farmer, Copeville South Australia - click here 

GRDC Adelaide Update paper - click here

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