In 1999, the SSCA held two direct seeding field days, one in the north and one in the south. While attendance was down at both field days due to the late spring, the field days were a success with 300 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.
300 producers took the day off from spraying to attend the field day at Rosthern's Seager Wheeler Farm on June 5. This was the third 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. This year the machines seeded field peas treated with the new Bio-Coat seed treatment.
Spraying equipment was also demonstrated at this year's field day. The spraying demonstration featured both high clearance and field sprayers. Drift control methods including air-induction nozzles were featured on most of the sprayers.
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.
The conditions at the Regina site were very wet like most of the land in southeastern Saskatchewan this year. 300 producers attended the Regina field day on June 15. Nine seeders were demonstrated at the site seeding Roundup Ready Canola. As with the Rosthern day, there were also sprayer demonstrations.