Raking Flax Straw (with video)

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Raking Flax Straw In order to extract the fiber from flax straw, it needs to decompose or “ret” slightly so that the flax and shive begin naturally to separate. For flax straw to begin retting, it needs to come in contact with the soil to allow microbes to get in and begin decomposing the straw. For best retting, the straw needs to be spread evenly over the ground. After retting is complete, the straw needs to be collected again so that it can be baled and hauled to a processing facility or other use. Raking is one way to collect the straw into rows for more efficient baling. Click on the photo or on the link below to view the video showing how raking can be used in Saskatchewan flax fields.

 Raking Video

Our thanks
To help raise awareness of alternatives to burning flax straw, the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission (SFDC) is working with Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada on the Agri-Environmental Group Plan (AEGP) on Flax Straw Management for Improved Air Quality. Through this program, Saskatchewan flax producers, represented by SFDC, can work together on developing Beneficial Management Practices (BMPs) that will (a) Improve air quality; and (b) Enhance economic opportunities available to farmers.