Don’t Rush Your Drains: Oban – Event Summary

It has been a very wet year!

After a very wet year the topic of this meeting, “Drainage and Rush Control”, was well received by the 33 farmers & crofters from around Oban.

Conservation specialist Helen Bibby gave a detailed presentation about the different species of rush and their wildlife value.  However, dense Juncus effusus (Soft rush) is a problem. SRUC’s Hill & Mountain Research Centre farm manager Ewen Campbell shared his practical experience of rushes and flooding during some very wet years at the Kirkton & Auchtertyre Farms.

Control of rushes

The efficiency of different mechanical and chemical control methods were examined by local advisor Trevor Polley.  There are pros and cons to any method chosen whether it be mowing, sward lifting, reseeding, weed wiping etc.   You can read the presentation slides used by Helen, Ewan and Trevor here.

Soils and drainage expert, Gavin Elrick then discussed the factors involved in the movement of water through the soil. Soil texture, structure and compaction need to be looked at before embarking on drainage programmes. Determining the depth of any compaction will aid effective remediation. The overhauling of existing drains & ditches can give a good result.  Read Gavin’s presentation slides for more information.

A visit to nearby wet fields for a practical exercise in spreading distances from watercourses sparked further discussion.  

Take home messages

• For effective rush control you need to look at overall management including; drainage, compaction, pH, nutrient status and grazing management.
• Mowing of rushes reduces density and helps maintain a grass sward but does not eradicate rushes.
• Mowing can maintain wildlife benefits of rushes if done in random patterns after 1^st  August
• Weedwiping is an effective control method (while glyphosate available)
• Field spraying is effective & efficient on suitable fields but is weather dependant.
• Overhaul existing drains and ditches before embarking on new drainage schemes.

You can download related information and the handouts availabe on the day through the links below.