Ellrott Plough Woody Weed Removal Project (Completed)
To trial the Ellrott Plough method of removing woody weeds in grazing lands and compare with bull dozing.
Aims
To trial the Ellrott Plough method of removing woody weeds in grazing lands and compare with bull dozing which is a more widely used method. This comparison will involve comparison of regrowth from root zone (suckers) and cost comparison between the 2 methods.
Background
In the Burdekin/Bowen Sub-region severe infestations of woody weeds (primarily Chinee Apple, Parkinsonia and Rubber Vine), hamper stock management, reduce pasture production and accessibility, eliminate biodiversity values and riparian ground cover which allows sediment to enter waterways and eventually deposits in the Great Barrier Reef.
The Ellrott Plough has been chosen to remove Chinee Apple at 2 of the demonstration sites, the third site will use more conventional Bulldozer method.
The Ellrott Plough consists of a blade plough being front mounted thus enabling the natural tendency of the plough to pull downwards creating added traction and enhancing manoeuvrability and control of the tractor. A pushbar creates tension on the stem and roots of the plant which enhances the cutting action of the plough in the root zone. This method differs to conventional dozing which leaves the bulk of the root in the ground.
Conclusions
The Ellrott plough is more expensive when you compare costs with amount of days worked. This report however does not take into consideration the long term savings of spraying regrowth which appears to be less than conventional dozing methods. Some regrowth from suckers was noted at site 2 when woody weeds were removed close to native vegetation left standing. This may be inevitable however was a good indication as to how closely the Ellrott can work to native vegetation with little reduction in effectiveness. It should be noted that the Ellrott Plough did leave the ground very disturbed and lumpy and had increased shrubby weeds.
Recommendations
- Stick rake after plough to reduce lumpiness of ground
- Direct seed after plough to reduce weeds.
- Spot spray regularly.
