Rainfall simulation extension tour

Level 1 General description

Purpose:

The rainfall simulation was used to examine the influence of different management options on infiltration of rainfall. Soil surface treatments were determined by the farmers at each location.

Methods (brief)

Not described

Key findings (brief)

• Unnecessary tillage can reduce rainfall infiltration and water storage;
• Zero tillage conditions combined with surface cover resulted in the best infiltration;
• Runoff can account for a large proportion of rainfall, even though the soil profile may be dry; and
• Management of tillage and stubble can have a large effect on the amount of water which is lost as runoff.

Location

Ellangowan

Related studies

The study was also carried out on sites in Bungunya, Ellangowan, Felton East, Mt Tyson, Roma, Westmar.