Diker Dammer Traps Water, Stops Erosion

Diker dammer traps water, stops erosion TILLAGE EUIPMENT New Tools 11-4-35 A water-trapping machine that was introduced last year in Australia has already caught on fast there as an uncomplicated way to conserve moisture for dryland crops. Inventor Bruce Smallacombe says the chain-paddle design of his "Conserveration King" machine is the least complicated and most effective method he's found to keep moisture from running off fields. He simply mounted heavy-gauge metal paddles on specially-designed 100-lb. chain links and strung them across the rear of a carrier frame that can be pulled alone or behind other equipment. The paddle-equipped chain rotates freely along the ground, digging 4-in. deep pockets, spaced 1 ft. apart in any direction. Each mini-dam holds 1¢ gal. of water. "Once you work a field it'll take a 2-in. rain without any runoff," says Smallacombe, noting that on hillsides or terraces the machine can help put an end to erosion. It also provides a certain amount of tillage and helps incorporate residue. Smallacombe is looking for a North American manufacturer for the machine. For more information, contact: FARM SHOW Followup, Bruce Smallacombe, Capella Sales & Engineering, P.O. Box 92, Capella, Queensland, Australia, 4702 (ph 079 84 9211).

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