Projects

WANTFA directs research and trials aimed at improving the efficiency and profitability of no-till cropping systems for Western Australian conditions. WANTFA members and growers help determine the direction of these trials through their suggestions and feedback on current cropping challenges.

WANTFA’s current research program includes seasonal trials as well as longer term major projects to advance sustainable cropping:

1. WANTFA Technology Demonstration Site (ongoing) – features annual and long term field trials and demonstrations on a wide range of no-till and sustainable broadacre cropping issues.
2. Long-term no-till farming systems project (ongoing) - features a multi-sited long term field trials programme aiming to compare and quantify the benefits of no-till over current 'disctrict' practice.
3. Analysis of high residue disc systems - the aim is to gain expertise and knowledge on the operation of disc machines in WA in order to determine in which conditions they  operate most effectively. 
4. Past projects
• Residue Management (completed) – this project is developing innovative and sustainable high residue no-till farming systems.
• New Generation No-till (completed)  – this project provides an analysis of the current state of play of no-till systems in Western Australia and recommendations for moving forward.

You can use the links to each research area to find out more about our program and to access results, or you can use the Site Search tool to type in a topic and find what we have on your particular issue.

If you would like to contribute your ideas for future trials or demonstrations we would welcome your feedback.  Contact WANTFA by email admin@wantfa.com.au or phone 08 6488 7465.

Why is WANTFA involved in research?

Successful no-till is dependant on the simultaneous application of several practices. These include; minimal disturbance of the soil during and between crops, retaining crop residues to cover the soil, using a variety of crop species to create diverse rotations, and minimising soil compaction.  The benefits of no-till accrue over time as the soil’s physical, biological and chemical properties change.

WANTFA's research program has elements of both pure research and demonstration, with demonstration of new technology and practices seen as a successful way to accelerate adoption.  This is complemented by a mature extension model, which allows results to be communicated nationally.

WANTFA carries out research that is dedicated to the no-till system on dedicated no-till sites.  At present, this research is focused on the WANTFA Technology Demonstration Site at Meckering and across the spectrum of broadacre cropping in WA to identify and extend the best mechanisms for ensuring successful retention of crop residue. 

In the near future WANTFA is proposing to establish further sites across the Western Australian wheatbelt to broaden the understanding of no-till farming over a range of climatic conditions.  In undertaking this commitment WANTFA's goal is to meet current challenges and develop the next generation no-till system.

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