NEW enhancements to harvester-integrated, weed seed destructor technology are set to further boost grower interest and sales for the 2017 grain harvest.
The Integrated Harrington Seed Destructor (iHSD), which comprises two hydraulically-driven cage mills mounted within the rear of harvesters, just below the sieves, has been touted as one of the shining lights in herbicide-resistant weed control, recently featuring on the ABC Landline program.
The system enables one-pass weed control; reduction in herbicide resistant weeds, thereby allowing better targeted and efficient chemical control in following seasons; and reduced burning, hence also improving soil organic matter.
The effectiveness of the iHSD has now been tested with 25 weed seed species.
Research undertaken by the Australian Herbicide Resistance Initiative (AHRI) has determined the mills can destroy 93-99 per cent of weed seeds, preventing the majority from entering the soil seed bank.
AHRI Director Professor Steve Powles said it was satisfying to see farmers adopting harvest weed seed control tactics.
“All of our research shows this is the way to help keep weed numbers down and grow more crop,’’ Mr Powles said.
Built on the long-term innovation and proven performance of the tow-behind Harrington Seed Destructor, 12 iHSD systems operated successfully in Western Australia last season and, via national distributor McIntosh Distribution, all will be upgraded with the latest enhancements. Darryl Verburg, iHSD Distribution Sales Representative - Australia with McIntosh Distribution, said the enhancements focused on improving the iHSD’s cooling capacity; adjusting the chute design to allow better feeding into the mills and accessibility to the sieves; and setting up the hydraulic system to constantly provide 3000 RPM, enabling material to move freely through the mills.
All of our research shows this is the way to help keep weed numbers down and grow more crop.
- Steve Powles, AHRI Director Professor
Mr Verburg said the coolers were also now easier to clean out, with double swing-out doors, while the new chute design allowed switching from cereals to pulses without any changes.
Other enhancements include different oil cooler particle screening options, including a fixed or rotary screen, and simplified user interface on the in-cab control, display and monitoring system.
Mr Verburg said the new, enhanced iHSD was tested earlier this year near Mount Gambier in South Australia, during harvest from January to March, and was a strong success.
He said the technology was generating enormous interest, with another 50-60 systems expected to be installed into headers in WA, SA and Victoria this year.
“Growers interested in the iHSD system will need to enquire soon to ensure timely supply for the 2017 grain harvest,’’ Mr Verburg said.
McIntosh Distribution has also since established a strong dealer network in WA, SA and Victoria and is in the process of appointing New South Wales and Queensland dealers, all of which will provide local support and parts access.
The iHSD will be on display at major agricultural field days across the country this year.
For further information on the systems, growers can contact Darryl at McIntosh Distribution on (08) 9475 1669 or 0427 782 161.