This paper reports results of a targeted monitoring and trial program to
develop an extension approach for reducing soil levels in the cane supply. The
program addressed both field and harvest factors affecting soil levels and the
economic impact on contractors, growers and millers. On the harvester side, the
most promising technique for reducing soil levels was adjustment of the
basecutter angle to match the row profile. Other factors include shape of the
basecutter discs, basecutter blade wear, buttlifter roller speed, primary extractor
speed, speed and depth of cutting, and wet weather. Field surveys indicated that
district average row spacings are satisfactory, but variability in spacings within
blocks and the persistence of some narrow spacings are of concern. Improvement
in row profiles for harvesting was addressed by developing equipment for
filling in plant cane and trials to evaluate early filling-in. Preliminary data were
collected on the cost of soil in cane to different sections of the industry. Key
issues have been identified for the extension program to reduce soil in the cane
supply.