Trials of tractor mounted scarifier

Trial of tractor mounted scarifier

By Laurence Gale MSc

Telford and Wrekin Services (TWS) are currently trying out a new method of scarifying the cricket squares and bowling greens in the Borough. In addition to using their pedestrian scarifier for their end of season renovations they have been utilising a tractor mounted rear PTO driven scarifying unit.

The speed of the operation is likely to produce cost savings for TWS, however, consideration of the unit's weight and the damage it may cause when turning and operating on such a small area of a bowling green will have to be monitored.

The BJB 42 can scarify down to a depth of 50mm (at 40mm spacing). The machine was set at 6mm for the bowling greens and it certainly fetched a considerable amount of thatch out and seemed to be more vigorous in respect of surface disturbance than the Dennis. It will be interesting to compare how the greens perform after these operations.

This system would certainly be a viable option for many Local Authorities who have many fine turf situations to manage, such as cricket, tennis, bowls and golf. The speed of operation and efficiency of the machine would be a key consideration to many managers.

Philip Constable of Oakleys said the machine was becoming very popular and had hired it out to a number of bowls and golf clubs in the Wrexham area. Costs for hiring the tractor and BJB 42 unit is around £400 per week plus transport costs.

Demonstrations of the machine can be organised through Oakleys and the BJB 42 unit can be bought outright at a cost of £3350.

For further Information about the BJB 42 scarifier contact Philip Constable at Oakleys Groundcare on telephone 01952 511000.