Setting the benchmark - Rice growers maximising yields and returns, and making the most of water

A snapshot of seven growers in the Murray and Murrumbidgee valleys

This publication includes:

Part 1. Irrigation layouts

• The foundation of all that follows

• A short history of flood irrigation layouts

• The side ditch (bankless channel) irrigation layout

• The terraced bankless irrigation layout

• The modified V-bay irrigation layout

• The reverse-flush V-bay layout

• V-bay modification for very flat country

Part 2. Irrigation layouts in action

• Minimising waterlogging by design, Harry Kooloos, Mayrung

• Retaining moisture, controlling weeds, Michael Denny, Mayrung

• Farming to terrain and soil type, Daniel Liphuyzen, Morago

• Farming to a target, Drew Braithwaite, Benerembah

• Attention to detail enhances efficiency, Clinton Brill, Benerembah

• Variable rates, consistent yields, Chris Morshead, Widgelli

• Better rice rotation with beds, Rob Flanagan, Benerembah

Written by Mark Groat, Produced by the Rice Extension Program, 2016