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Expert says weather still threatens soybean crop, qualityIowa When the U.S. Department of Agriculture recently lowered its soybean production estimate one percent to 2.93 billion bushels on 40 bushels per acre yield, Iowa State University Soybean Extension Agronomist Palle Pedersen responded that those figures seem like a more accurate look at this year's soybean crop. Unfortunately, he says, there are concerns that figure is still too high. Pedersen says this year's soybean crop will depend on several variables over the next several weeks, including weather. "For that reason we are monitoring the seven- and ten-day forecasts very carefully right now," he says. "Under certain conditions, the crop could still improve," Pedersen says. "Sunshine and warm temperatures will help soybeans mature. If we don't get an early frost, we may be in good shape. But if we get an early or average frost, that will cost bushels, no doubt about it." Not only the size of the crop, but quality is also an issue. Pedersen says one result of late planting is smaller seed size. "We expect the protein content to be higher than usual," he adds, "but oil content will be down." Pedersen says nobody can guess just how low the oil content will go, but it will be lower than growers have seen the last three to four years. To hear more, go to Iowa Soybean Association's website at www.iasoybeans.com, and check out ISA's Production Research page. On the left side under September, click on the podcast entitled, "Harvest Expectations." To learn more about ISA, visit its website at www.iasoybeans.com. 9/29/08 Date: 9/23/08
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