ABOUT 26 farmers from the Inverell district have attended a field day on dry land cotton.
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Organised by agricultural specialists McGregor Gourlay, the day brought together interested farmers and industry representatives.
“It was an opportunity for farmers across the district to ask questions and seek advice on dry land cotton,” McGregor Gourlay senior agronomist Scott Rogers said.
Dry land cotton is emerging as a profitable summer crop option in the eastern reaches of the North West Slopes, an area traditionally not considered suitable for cotton production.
After watching the success of dry land cotton at Wallangra Station for the past two seasons, John and Sarah Thompson, of Lindale, Inverell, decided to plant cotton as part of their summer crop rotation this year.
McGregor Gourlay has been heavily involved in the expansion of dry land cotton into the Eastern reaches and is working closely with the Thompsons in all aspects of crop management.
Mr Thompson said he was excited about the potential of dry land cotton becoming a profitable and sustainable option in this area and was keen to see more potential growers become involved.
The interest sparked McGregor Gourlay to conduct the field day last week at Lindale Station.
Farmers took the opportunity to look at the crop and listen to cotton experts.
The day proved such a success, another one is planned in late April.
“It will be closer to picking time then and interested farmers will have an opportunity to walk through the crops,” Mr Rogers said.
Important considerations in growing dry land cotton are ensuring a crop consultant monitors development and also that checks are regularly conducted for pests and diseases.
For those interested in attending the next field day, or in dry land cotton, phone Mr Rogers on 0427 293418.
McGregor Gourlay is on the corner of Newell Highway and Carol Avenue, Moree; 18 Boodle Street, Goondiwindi, phone (07) 4677 9700; Ring Street, Inverell, phone (02) 6721 6100 and Stephen Street, Warialda, phone (02) 6729 2200.