Spring Scientific Meeting 2011

Workshop – Wednesday 01st June, Oak Park, Carlow

There is a growing awareness amongst good farmers of the importance of the physical and biological health of the soils we farm for the productivity of the crops we grow. To this end, this year’s workshop will focus on the topic MANAGING SOILS FOR PRODUCTIVITY and will explore a range of aspects of soils in both lecture and field format. The workshop aims to inform and show farmers the importance of getting and keeping soils in a highly productive state. Healthy soils give more yield for free and this objective must be the primary aim of all growers. The emphasis for the day will be on the physical and biological properties of soil and how management can influence these. The program for the day is outlined below:

Morning indoor session:

9.15-10.15 Tea/coffee on arrival

10.00-10.15 Addressing yield limitations

10.15-10.30 Changing pressures on our soils

10.30-11.15 Organic Carbon and it functions in soil

11.15-12.00 The importance of soil biology

12.00-12.45 Soil nitrogen

1.00 General discussion

Afternoon outdoor rotating sessions: 14.30 – 17.00hrs

1. Nitrogen response trials

2. Cultivation systems

3. Soil structure / Profile / Soil bulk density

4. Compaction – Consequences and Prevention

5. Concluding remarks

The charge for this day is €50 per person to include lunch and tea/coffee. Places at the workshop are limited to a maximum of 50 so pre-booking is essential and it will be a case of first come first served. To book a place(s) for the Annual Workshop, please call or text Stuart on (087) 2898807 or call (051) 644412. You can also book by emailing stuart.goodwin@teagasc.ie