In 1998, the SSCA held two direct seeding field days, one in
the north and one in the south. Both field days were a success
with 600 producers attending each day. Producers were able to see
the latest equipment in action and make side by side comparisons.
Both sites will be signed for viewing over the summer.
600 producers took the day off from spraying to attend the field day at Rosthern's Seager Wheeler Farm on June 6. This was the second time their field day was held in conjunction with SSCA's Direct Seeding Field Day. The assistance we received from the Seager Wheeler Farm volunteers helped make the day run smoothly.
Eleven direct seeding machines were on hand to demonstrate their ability to direct seed into standing stubble. The seeding demo was the most popular demonstration with people crowded around equipment jockeying for a better view.
Spraying equipment was also demonstrated at this years field day. The spraying demonstration featured both high clearance and field sprayers. Tom Wolfe from the Saskatoon Research Station demonstrated the latest technology for spray drift reduction. The new "air-induction" nozzles appear to be a major breakthrough.
There were also plots demonstrating direct seeding "Do's and Don'ts" and herbicide tolerant crops. An information session was held with presentations on crop and pest management. In addition to demonstrations on the latest in crop production techniques, the Seager Wheeler Farm also had horticulture demonstrations and horse plowing demonstrations.
For the first time in the past few years, the Regina Field day site was dry. While the clouds threatened to rain on our event, they stayed away until the following day. 600 producers attended the Regina field day on June 16. Eleven seeders were demonstrated at the site. As with the Rosthern day, there were also sprayer demonstrations.