A person might be able to argue whether or not precision agriculture technology increases yields, but he could not argue whether or not he has more information about his farm. Precision agriculture technology generates a tremendous amount of data and producers need to learn how to manage this data to their benefit.
Robert Greenlee and his business partner, Mark White, are adapting precision agriculture practices to their northeast Oklahoma farm and are learning the value of all this information. Greenlee purchased his first yield monitor in 1991 after a trip to the Louisville Farm Show.
Reading stories of farm operations progressing from one generation to another is nothing new. To see generational change in farm leadership--to see new generations take on work in farm organizations--is a little more rare.
Nick Midcap and his father, Jack, of Morgan County, Colo., are a case in point.
As Jack Midcap was chairman of the Colorado Wheat Administrative Committee in 1984-85, Nick is now serving as the immediate past president of the Colorado Association of Wheat Growers.
2009 crop year uniform grain and rice storage agreement policy part of amendment By Jennifer Latzke As the wheat industry continues its long progress toward the development of a commercially viable biotech wheat seed, it's important to recognize where the industry has been, as well as where it hopes to end up. U.S. Wheat Associates Vice President, Director West Coast Office John Oades said discussions over biotech wheat varieties have been going on in one way or another for more than a decade...
Most prices holding steady, some trading slow In Nebraska and the East River area of South Dakota, sales were few with light demand and trade. Persistent rains has been very good for grass growth but has placed quite a bit of damaged hay at the edge of the field placing pressure on hay demand. Ground and delivered hay trended steady.
Bovine TB scare rattles Nebraska cattle producers BASSETT, Neb. (AP)--Two positive tests for tuberculosis in one of the most productive ranching regions in the country are nothing to fret about, Monte Strelow claims. But the tears that well up in the burly 45-year-old rancher's eyes while children play under the wraparound porch of his home southeast of here tell a different story. "This land has been in the family for 125 years,'' Strelow said.
Roughly 2,000 Nebraska cattle die in heat OMAHA, Neb. (AP)--More than 2,000 Nebraska cattle died in mid-June during an unexpected spike in temperatures and humidity levels, with one feedlot alone losing 250 cattle, officials estimated June 29. The deaths are not likely to have a major impact on the $10 billion cattle industry in Nebraska, which federal officials estimate has roughly 6.4 million head of cattle and calves. But producers who lost large numbers of cattle could see a significant...
Ready for new carbon markets and greenhouse gas regulations? Watching the U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approve sweeping climate change legislation proved once again that Otto von Bismark was right when he said: "Laws are like sausages, it is better not to see them being made." The 219 to 212 vote, which called for the nation's first-ever limits on pollution believed to be linked to global warming, represented an incredible victory for President Barack Obama and especially for House...
Monsanto, BASF scientists disclose discovery of gene conferring drought tolerance in corn plants Monsanto Company and BASF scientists unveiled the discovery that a naturally-occurring gene can help corn plants combat drought conditions and confer yield stability during periods of inadequate water supplies. The companies stated that they will use the gene in their first-generation drought-tolerant corn product which is designed to provide yield stability to their farmer customers. This ...
Moving to Kiowa, Kan. Tuesday, June 16 When we finished harvesting in Olney, Texas, we were out of work and waiting for the wheat in Kiowa, Kan., to be ready for harvest. We decided to head up the road slowly and see if we could find any work, but there just was not any work to be found.
Harvest brings consumers, farmers together Growing up on a family farm, agriculture was a way of life for my family and me. Each summer I watched producers and custom harvesters sweep across the Plains in eastern Colorado. Not long after summer crops were harvested, farmers were soon planting next year's crop or preparing for corn harvest.
Noble Foundation consultant offers livestock operators advice on protecting cattle against summer temperatures It has been estimated that heat-related events in the Midwest have cost the cattle industry more than $75 million in the past 10 years. With summer temperatures rising, ranchers must be aware of how heat affects their cattle. According to Deke Alkire, Ph.D., livestock consultant for The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, the ideal temperature range for beef cattle is between 41 and ...
Southeast Missouri farmers deal with soggy crops BLOOMFIELD, Mo. (AP)--In a normal year, farmer Mike Bell of Bloomfield, Mo., would have already planted 2,000 acres of corn on his farmland. But this isn't an average planting season for the Stoddard County farmer, who farms with his son, Jeffrey. Because of wet spring, he has 1,100 acres of corn planted.
Borlaug Institute to provide technical assistance to Ecuador Texas Texas AgriLife Extension Service has signed an agreement to provide technical assistance for cattle production and dairy product quality improvement to Ecuador, according to project coordinators. Activities will be carried out in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Foreign Agriculture Service and Ecuador's Ministry of Agriculture.
Grain market close The USDA Market News Service, Greeley, Colo., in the closing grain report for June 29, reported in futures trading that Chicago July soft red winter wheat was $5.20 1/2, down 5 3/4 cents, September wheat was $5.57 3/4, down 5 1/4 cents; July corn, $3.77, down 7 1/4 cents; and August soybeans, $11.28, down 6 cents. The export bid for direct Gulf delivery of No. 1 hard red winter wheat, ordinary protein, rail, $6.41 1/2 to $6.52, up 2 to down 2 1/2 cents; No.
Corn Growers: New documentary attacks farming, would boost food costs National Corn Growers Association President Bob Dickey released the following statement June 10 on the new documentary, Food Inc. "U.S. corn farmers are proud of their work. Each season, we battle the elements to plant, grow and harvest a crop that is the world's wonder, a crop that is used safely for countless products, from food to fuel to fiber.
Corn herbicides deliver more options DuPont has received federal registration approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for two corn herbicides: Accent Q and Steadfast Q. Both new herbicides provide corn growers with the flexibility to apply them under more diverse weather conditions, across more hybrids and with a wider range of adjuvants. DuPont Accent Q herbicide will provide selective postemergence grass control in field corn grown for seed or grain, popcorn and certain ...
Dairy on a smaller scale STILLWATER, Okla. (AP)--A Payne County farm is complete with pasture, barns and even a milking parlor, but there are no cows. Chester and Dora Busch operate Feather Creek Farm, located between Stillwater and Glencoe. The farm is a full production goat dairy with about 100 milking goats, 48 of which are being milked at this time.
Hay trading slow, strong demand In Kansas, the hay trade slow. Demand is moderate to strong for dairy alfalfa, moderate for alfalfa pellets, grinding alfalfa and grass hay, according to the Kansas Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, June 26. Prices given on a per-ton basis, unless otherwise noted. Southwest:
On-line farm program calculation tools now available Colorado Gary Wall, acting state executive director of USDA's Farm Service Agency in Colorado announced June 10 that new online research and planning tools are now available for farmers and ranchers to assist them in examining how the new 2008 farm bill programs apply to their crops and operations. Average Crop Revenue Election Program is a new revenue-based guarantee program administered by FSA that assists farmers and ranchers in ...
Democrats push for votes on climate bill WASHINGTON (AP)--Democrats scrambled for votes June 25 on a climate bill that would for the first time limit the pollution blamed for global warming as the White House stepped up pressure on reluctant lawmakers and former Vice President Al Gore tried to stave off any defections. President Barack Obama, in a planned White House Rose Garden appearance, was expected to argue that the legislation will create new "green'' energy jobs and help wean the ...
Wheat harvest in full swing Texas The northern part of the state received up to 2 inches of rainfall during the week ending June 28, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Texas Field Office, June 29, while the rest of the state observed scattered showers. Wheat harvest was in full-swing and cotton, grain sorghum, and irrigated corn progressed well in the Northern High Plains.
Corn, dry bean producers should watch for cutworms Nebraska Corn and dry bean producers should monitor their crops for western bean cutworms, said University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension Educator, Ron Seymour. "Western bean cutworm can be a really devastating pest in either corn or dry bean production," said Seymour, who focuses on insect pest management in Adams County.
Hog breeding herd down, productivity up leads to continual financial hardship Hog producers continue to deal with high input costs and little profit even as breeding herd numbers decline. "Breeding herd numbers are declining; however, production is at an all-time high," said University of Missouri agricultural economist Ron Plain. "The increase in productivity comes after a decrease of 2.7 percent in the breeding herd, which continues to be interesting as pork producers have been losing money...
Grain bids lower, soybeans higher ahead of USDA report Grain bids were lower with soybeans trading higher ahead of the U.S. Department of Agriculture report June 30, according to the National Grain Market Summary, June 29. Wheat was pressure by favorable harvest weather in most of the soft red wheat areas. Corn was lower on fund selling.
NCGA Corn Board selects Schott as next first vice president The National Corn Growers Association Corn Board has elected Bart Schott of Kulm, N.D., to the position of first vice president for the 2010 fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1. Schott and his family are third- and fourth-generation farmers raising no-till corn, soybeans and wheat. He also runs a seed business. "I am honored and humbled to be selected by my fellow board members to serve as the next first vice president of NCGA," said ...
Duped Before skipping town for the July 4th holiday, the House of Representatives quickly wrapped up their work on a climate change/global warming bill. Speaker Nancy Pelosi (San Francisco) and Energy and Commerce Chairman Henry Waxman (Los Angeles) convinced 219 members to vote in favor of what some are calling the largest expansion of federal regulatory power in history. With so many criticisms of this bill, many are wondering how they pulled it off.
Having a home--away from home Tuesday, June 23 After traveling to many of our stops for many years, my family feels right at home when we return each summer for harvest. One of our favorite homes away from home is Kiowa, Kan., also known as "Combine City."
Just a Scoopful ¬ (June 30)--What does it mean to have freedom? Is it just a passing thought of being able to do what you want? Most of us have been born in a country where we have all these freedoms and most all of us take them for granted almost every day.
Feed costs, swine flu put small hog farms in peril DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)--Marty Malecek got a business degree intending to take over the Minnesota hog farm that his father started nearly 20 years ago. Instead, they are selling their 1,700 hogs and auctioning off land after it became clear that they could no longer cover their costs. It was a combination of blows: rising feed costs as the production of ethanol increased competition for corn and soybeans.
Missouri wheat production unchanged Missouri "Missouri wheat producers are expecting an excellent yield as spring moisture supplies have been abundant," said Gene Danekas, Director, Missouri Agricultural Statistics. "As the crop turns toward maturity throughout the State, harvest is beginning in the Bootheel."
Just a scoop full (June 24)--Just when I thought it was bad--on fat cattle, because of the price--when I called the feedlot this week I was informed that this heat had caused several to die. Perhaps $82 per cwt. wasn't as bad as I thought--that is, compared to zero.
Livestock Disease Plan: Idaho, Wyoming seek control over animal disease CODY, Wyo. (AP)--Wyoming and Idaho officials are asking the federal government to give states more authority over the animal disease brucellosis--a bid to break a political impasse over an issue that has hobbled the Yellowstone region's livestock industry. The U.S. Department of Agriculture in January proposed making the region a disease management zone where cattle producers would face special testing requirements.
Farming with grass may be just right for 21st century Grass and other perennial plants may be just what the doctor ordered for farmers facing the uncertainties of climate change. And beef and dairy products from free-ranging, grass-fed cattle--along with legumes and grains grown in addition to grass--may be just what the doctor ordered for consumers. That's the "post-oil agriculture" vision portrayed by Agricultural Research Service scientists and other participants at the Farming with Grass...
Southern agriculture leaders oppose proposed climate change legislation Commissioners and secretaries of agriculture representing 17 southern states and U.S. territories June 17 said the Southern Association of State Departments of Agriculture formally opposes H.R. 2454, the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. "We cannot support this bill or any other environmental legislation without significant input from agriculture," said Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture and current SASDA ...
Oklahoma wheat production forecast Oklahoma The state's June 1, wheat production is forecast at 73.5 million bushels, down 9 percent from last month, and 56 percent below last year according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Oklahoma Field Office. Acres harvested for grain, at 3.5 million acres, are down 1 million acres from last year.
Kansas winter wheat production expected down 4 percent Kansas The 2009 Kansas wheat crop is forecast at 340.0 million bushels as of June 1, unchanged from the May 1 forecast, but down 4 percent from the 2008 crop. The current crop is projected to be harvested from 8.5 million acres, down 400,000 acres from a year ago.
Political climate change The climate change front moved through a couple of years ago. We all felt it, as even Republican presidential candidate John McCain acknowledged that action had to be taken to alleviate man's impact on our planet. The legislation passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last week was 20 years in coming and yet many in agriculture and industry are still in denial.
Got your goat? Some in Florida farming them Got your goat? Some in Florida farming them ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)--Not sure what to make for dinner tonight? How about a delicious, tender slice of goat meat?
University of Nebraska Panhandle Wheat Plot Tours began June 16 Nebraska University of Nebraska winter wheat plot tours began June 16 in the Panhandle will give producers an opportunity to learn more about new varieties, drought stress, wheat streak resistance, and other topics relevant to western Nebraska. Plots are located in Morrill, Dawes, Deuel, Cheyenne, Box Butte, and Scotts Bluff counties, and just across the Wyoming line.
About half of wheat crop ready for harvest Kansas Precipitation during the week ending June 21 was light to moderate in the west, but heavy in the eastern half of Kansas, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Kansas Field Office, June 22. Temperatures were warm as well reaching over 90 degrees across Kansas.
Lightning strike kills 15 head of cattle in Florida LITHIA, Fla. (AP)--Authorities say a single lightning strike likely killed 15 head of cattle at a Tampa-area ranch. Bar-S-Bar ranch foreman Jerry Stack found the 12 cows, two calves and bull in an open pasture early June 18. The animals were all Brahmans, the only kind of cattle raised on the ranch. The bull was worth an estimated $20,000.
NCBA: Cattlemen speak out on Clean Water Act land grab The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee passed S. 787, the Clean Water Restoration Act out of committee June 18 on a party-line vote, bringing the country one step closer to the largest federal land grab in our history. The bill was amended at the markup by Senators Baucus, Klobuchar, and Boxer. The amendment is a smoke screen that allegedly takes care of agricultural concerns by exempting prior-converted croplands from federal...
Not an easy life for Kansas cowgirl PRATT, Kan. (AP)--Beth Mertens weathered hands held the reins of the horse she was riding. The morning's work was ahead of her, helping to move semi-loads of cattle from the trailers to the pens outside the Pratt Livestock Auction. Mertens is just another pen rider.
Executive associate dean named for Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Texas Dr. Alan Sams will return to Texas A&M University to become executive associate dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences by Sept. 1, according to a June 9 announcement by Dr. Mark Hussey, vice chancellor and dean for Agriculture and Life Sciences. Sams has been dean of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences at Clemson University in South Carolina for the past two years.
Cattleman surprised with Tyson's $16K legal bill PIERRE, S.D. (AP)--Cattle rancher and auctioneer Herman Schumacher was surprised to find a sign posted on the door of his Herreid home saying he owes nearly $16,000 in legal fees to Tyson Fresh Foods. The writ of execution from a federal judge was put on his door on June 11 because he owes legal expenses after losing a lawsuit he and two other cattlemen filed against Tyson and some other meatpackers that alleged the meatpackers violated federal...
Forage options after wheat harvest Wheat harvest will soon be over. With a little rain or irrigation, there are several forage possibilities for wheat ground after harvest. An early maturing corn variety is one possibility if it is planted thick, although yield still might not be very high, according to Bruce Anderson, University of Nebraska Extension Forage Specialist.
Polansky takes USDA job TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)--Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Adrian Polansky has been tapped to head the Farm Service Agency in Kansas for the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a position he held during the Clinton administration. His appointment was announced June 30 by the Obama administration and drew praise from Gov. Mark Parkinson. "This is great news for Kansas.
Vilsack announces $176 million in Recovery Act funding to improve research capacity at laboratories in 29 states Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack announced June 19 that the U.S. Department of Agriculture is distributing $176 million in Recovery Act funding to upgrade laboratory buildings and support facilities at research locations across the country. Not only will these projects further important research being conducted at USDA laboratories in 29 states, these funds will help ...
Meet the Pjeskys of Goltry, Okla. Ryan and Hope of Goltry, Okla., started wheat harvest on June 15. Their first few loads of wheat averaged 35 bushels per acre and had a test weight of 61 pounds per bushel. The first few loads were exciting for them because they didn't think their first fields harvested were going to yield that high. The couple estimates to conclude harvest within the next two weeks because the forecast is in favor of harvest in the area.
NSP comments on climate change legislation Leadership of the National Sorghum Producers met June 25 to discuss and review Agriculture Chairman Collin Peterson's hard-fought amendment to the American Clean Energy and Security Act of 2009. The bill, which was approved in the House Energy and Commerce Committee last month and heard by the House Committee on Agriculture two weeks ago, included language that caused significant concern to the National Sorghum Producers and its producer members. ...
Simmental Association online listings provide value The American Simmental Association has recognized the growth of online use in the beef industry by launching SimList and SimTransport--both designed to help breeders and members of the beef industry in targeted ways. SimList is an online classified listing of commercial Sim-Influenced feeder cattle and replacement females. Besides feeders, producers can place commercial open heifers, bred heifers, cows and pairs.
Kansas couple turns popcorn into growing business WHITING, Kan. (AP)--What started as an idea the size of a kernel has grown into a popcorn business that ships its product across the United States. Gary and Marian Schlaegel said they started marketing the popcorn they were growing on their farm near Whiting in the early 1970s. Originally, the couple sold packaged, unpopped yellow and white kernels.
MGGA supports Baucus efforts on clean water Montana Senator Max Baucus introduced alternative language in early June in an effort to mitigate the potentially harmful effect on agriculture of broader language proposed by the Clean Water Restoration Act. The bill, S.787 as introduced by Senator Feingold, could expand the authority of Environmental Protection Agency regulation under the Clean Water Act by eliminating the word 'navigable' from the definition of 'waters of the United States.'
And so it was The Declaration of Independence was signed by 56 individuals who were willing to risk everything for the future of what would become the United States of America. Interestingly, it is not hard to find some real horror stories about how treasonous actions led to abuse, but how much is history and how much is folklore? I believe you must be quite naÃØve if you don't understand that it had to be unbelievably painful to be living in that time and hold the vision of a free nation ...
Pratt cattle sales report Pratt Livestock Sales, Pratt, Kan., reported receipts of 357 head June 18, compared to 371 head last week and 1,598 head last year, according to the USDA-Kansas Department of Agriculture Market News, Dodge City, Kan. Compared to last week, wheat producers are aggressively harvesting the 2009 wheat crop, most cattle auctions in the state are shut down for wheat harvest. There were not enough steers or heifers for a market test, limited sales were steady.
Georgia cattle auction summary The summary of weekly cattle auctions in Georgia, showed receipts of 9,355 head June 26, compared to 8,671 head last week and 13,422 head last year, according to the USDA-Georgia Department of Agriculture Market News, Thomasville, Ga. Compared to one week ago, slaughter cows were $2 to $4 higher, bulls were $1 to $3 higher, feeder steers and heifers were steady to $1 higher, steer calves were steady to $2 higher, heifer calves steady to $1 higher, replacement ...
Dodge City cattle sales report Dodge City Winter Livestock, Inc., reported receipts of 451 head, June 25, compared to 1,264 head, last week and 1,862 head, last year, according to the USDA-Kansas Department of Agriculture Market News, Dodge City, Kan. Wheat harvest is in full swing, therefore most of the cattle auctions in the state are shut down for harvest. Compared to last week, there were not enough steers and heifers for a market test, limited sales were steady to firm.
Sec. Polansky criticizes editorial I'm very disappointed by last week's editorial (June 29) lambasting the Kansas Department of Agriculture for how we dealt with cuts to our budget. Not only was it inaccurate, it accused us of surreptitiously and arbitrarily discontinuing market reports despite their value to the livestock industry. Like all state agencies, the Kansas Department of Agriculture has weathered--and continues to weather--cuts to its funding.
KDA finds solutions to market reporting issue The Kansas Department of Agriculture announced June 29 that it is nearing a solution to the issue of budget cuts that would have halted state-funded reporting of livestock markets in Salina and Pratt, Kan., as of July 1. In a letter to High Plains Journal, Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Adrian Polansky announced contracts will be extended for one month for the part-time reporters of the Pratt and Salina sales. "This will give us time to train a...
Positive attitude helps Angus breeders make proper management decisions A positive attitude is the best solution for the Jager family of southeast Iowa, because they recently received some not so positive news about their Angus cowherd. "When we found out about the possibility of genetic problems in our herd, we had to totally reevaluate the herd and decide how to manage the potential problems in a positive manner," said Curt Jager of Eddyville. The Jagers have about 270 Angus cows in their ...
Dry beans begin to bloom Wyoming Even with limited precipitation during the week ending June 28, there are still great irrigation water supplies, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Wyoming Field Office, June 29. Some hay crop appeared to be short due to the long spell of cool temperatures.
Pork and Transport Quality Assurance certification sessions offered Nebraska To help pork producers and their employees gain certification in the Pork Quality Assurance Plus Program and/or the Transport Quality Assurance program, several training sessions will be available at 22 locations across the state Aug. 4, 5, 11 and 12. The Nebraska Pork Producers Association, the Nebraska Soybean Board and University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension are sponsoring the PQA Plus and TQA producer ...
Missouri governor to sign bill allowing tractor parades JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP)--Gov. Jay Nixon plans to sign legislation that would allow tractor parades to plow ahead. Nixon was to sign the bill May 29 next to an antique John Deere tractor on the south lawn of the Capitol. The measure will take effect when it's signed.
West Plains regional cattle sales The Ozarks Regional Stockyard, West Plains, Mo., reported receipts of 3,633 head June 30, compared to 3,585 head last week and 2,266 head last year, according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, Jefferson City, Mo. Compared to last week, steers 450 to 650 pounds and weights over 900 pounds were $2 to $4 higher, 650 to 900 pounds were firm to $2 higher. Limited test of light steer calves under 450 pounds were fully steady.
Denison feeder cattle report The Denison Feeder Cattle Auction, Denison, Iowa, reported receipts of 1,942 head June 25, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News, Des Moines, Iowa. This was Denison's calf and yearling sale. No comparison was available because the last sale was three weeks ago, however there was moderate supply with good demand.
Technology increases precision of water application Valley Irrigation introduces GPS Guidance for linear irrigation equipment. GPS Guidance will increase accuracy and precision of linear irrigation equipment when compared with conventional irrigation guidance. It also will help eliminate some maintenance issues associated with existing guidance options.
High temps cause some cattle losses Nebraska For the week ending June 28, warm temperatures and high humidity helped push crop development, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Nebraska Field Office, June 29. Over three-fourths of the wheat was turning color and the first fields have been harvested in the Southeast and South Central Districts.
Tulsa cattle sales report The Tulsa Stockyards, Tulsa, Okla., reported receipts of 2,206 head June 29, compared to 2,134 head last week and 2,254 head last year, according to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News, Oklahoma City, Okla. Compared to last week, stocker steers and heifers were $2 to $4 lower. Feeder steers and heifers were steady to $2 lower.
Joplin regional cattle sales The Joplin Regional Stockyards, Joplin, Mo., reported receipts of 5,238 head June 29, compared to 5,739 head last week and 3,996 head last year, according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, Jefferson City, Mo. Compared to last week, steer and heifer calves were steady to $2 lower, yearlings were steady to $2 higher. Demand and supply were moderate.
Wyobraska cattle sales report The combined sales volume of Wyoming, western Nebraska, western North and South Dakota feedlots for the week ending June 27, totaled 450 head, compared to 100 head last week and 1,575 head last year, according to the USDA-Wyoming Department of Agriculture Market News, Torrington, Wyo. Feeder steers and heifers were not well tested at Wyoming auctions this week. Direct trading was very slow this week.
Wheat being stifled by heat, limited moisture Montana Montana saw warmer temperatures and light precipitation for the week ending June 28, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Montana Field Office, June 29. Glasgow had the high temperature at 102 degrees.
Hot temps help harvest Kansas Precipitation during the week ending June 28 was light across the Northern and Eastern counties with a handful of counties receiving greater than 1 inch of moisture, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Kansas Field Office, June 29. Temperatures were hot across Kansas reaching over 100 degrees in most areas.
NAWG supports passage of amended climate change bill A statement from Karl Scronce, NAWG president and a wheat producer from Klamath Falls, Ore., June 25: "NAWG policy supports climate change legislation allowing agricultural greenhouse gas offsets to be utilized as an unlimited source of greenhouse gas emissions offsets, and we have signed onto nine industry principles for pending legislation. H.R. 2454 with changes as negotiated by House Agriculture Committee Chairman Collin Peterson ...
Jatropha tree examined as a biofuel alternative FORT MYERS, Florida (AP)--What some see as the biofuel of the future starts out as short, thick stems with a few leaves sticking out at sharp angles. But in just a few years, they will be tall, leafy trees with bright green spherical pods spilling their seeds all over the ground. The jatropha tree doesn't have the name recognition or lobbying clout of corn-based ethanol, but the energy industry is increasingly spending development dollars and ...
Swine show exhibitors must have premise identification for livestock shows Oklahoma Participants in swine shows and exhibits will be required to have an official premise identification card issued by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food, and Forestry effective Aug. 1. Officials say the rule will protect both economic and social interests. "This is a very proactive step that lets Oklahomans decide how best to protect the health of our citizens, our livestock industry and our livestock...
Producers waiting on weather Wyoming More sunshine needed for crop growth during the week ending June 21, while barley, oats, winter wheat and dry beans began the headed stage, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Wyoming Field Office, June 22. Localized areas received some moisture last week.
Weather leaves little time for fieldwork Kansas Precipitation during the week ending June 14 was moderate to heavy across Kansas, along with damaging hail in a few areas, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Kansas Field Office, June 15. Producers averaged 2.9 days suitable for fieldwork.
Springfield livestock auction report The Springfield Livestock Marketing Center, Springfield, Mo., reported receipts of 1,883 head June 24, compared to 1,958 head last week and 1,494 head last year, according to the Missouri Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, Jefferson City, Mo. Compared to last week, steer and heifer calves under 500 pounds were $7 to $10 lower, steers 500 to 800 pounds and 500-weight heifers were $2 to $6 lower, steers over 800 pounds were steady on a ...
Weather helps row crop planting progress Missouri Very warm, dry weather during the week ending June 28 allowed producers to make substantial progress in planting soybeans and sorghum, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Missouri Field Office, June 29. Hay and winter wheat harvest also advanced significantly. Topsoil moisture was reduced to 14 percent short, 71 percent adequate, and 15 percent surplus.
Conservation wave builds in the West RIO GRANDE GORGE, N.M. (AP)--Craning his neck to see over the small airplane's instrument panel, Ron Gardiner points out the path Spanish explorers had to take around the deep crevasse that cuts through the center of northern New Mexico. To the west of the famous Rio Grande gorge and its towering basalt cliffs is a broad plateau of sagebrush, native grass and remnants of the ancient volcanoes that helped form this rugged landscape. Herds of elk, pronghorn...
Agricultural, forestry practices can increase carbon sequestration Agriculture alone may not be able to mitigate global climate change, but certain practices can make a positive difference and in some cases, are cost-saving to producers, according to Chuck Rice, who is a University Distinguished Professor at Kansas State University. Several agricultural and forestry practices can increase carbon sequestration, said Rice, who leads a team of scientists at 10 universities that comprises the ...
Reaping more rewards from crop residues Wheat and barley producers in Washington State's Palouse region can refine crop residue management to build soil organic matter, curb soil erosion, retain soil moisture and maximize crop yields, thanks to support from the Agricultural Research Service. ARS soil scientist Ann Kennedy and Tami Stubbs of Washington State University worked with other WSU and ARS colleagues to conduct a two-year study of post-harvest crop residues to identify links between ...
McAlester livestock auction report The McAlester Union Livestock Market, McAlester, Okla., reported receipts of 1,390 head June 30, compared to 1,625 head last week and 1,210 head last year, according to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News, Oklahoma City, Okla. Compared to last week, stocker and feeder cattle were steady to $2 higher. Good attendance of buyers and active trade.
EPA livestock tax blocked by Tiahrt amendment Farmers and Ranchers achieved an important victory late June 18 when the House Appropriations Committee adopted the Tiahrt Amendment preventing the Environmental Protection Agency from regulating livestock as a greenhouse gas source. U.S. Congressman Todd Tiahrt (R-Goddard) offered the amendment during consideration of the FY2010 Interior and Environment Appropriations bill. The provision blocks the EPA from mandating Clean Air Act permits for ...
AFBF: Even rainwater would be regulated under the CWRA The American Farm Bureau Federation June 12 said S. 787, the Clean Water Restoration Act, leaves no water unregulated in the United States and could even impact standing water from rain in a dry area. The organization signed onto a letter on behalf of the Water Advocacy Coalition to Senate Environment and Public Works Chair Barbara Boxer, D-CA, and ranking member James Inhofe, R-OK, asking them to oppose the legislation. "S. 787 would ...
JBS Swift Beef Co. expands beef recall GREELEY, Colo. (AP)--JBS Swift Beef Co., of Greeley, Colo., is voluntarily expanding its beef recall to include about 380,000 pounds of products because of possible E. coli contamination. A recall in late June involved about 41,000 pounds of products. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said June 28 that all the beef products in the expanded recall were produced April 21 and are in boxes bearing "EST.
Summer temperatures seen Oklahoma Summer temperatures sent Oklahomans searching for shelter during the week ending June 28, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Oklahoma Field Office, June 29. The National Weather Service issued a statewide heat warning and an excessive heat warning to the Tulsa and Oklahoma City areas.
Warm temps help crop development Colorado Colorado experienced warmer temperatures during the week ending June 28 accelerating the crop development once again, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Colorado Field Office, June 29. Most of the state experienced a good amount of moisture with the parts of the Front Range showing 2.57 inches of rain.
Chambliss-Baucus introduce bipartisan measure to protect hunting on public lands U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, R-GA, Ranking Republican Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, and U.S. Senator Max Baucus, D-MT, a senior member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, June 25 announced they have introduced the Hunting Heritage Protection Act, which aims to recognize the heritage of hunting and provide opportunities for continued hunting on federal public land. The Senators also cosponsored a ...
Crop development accelerated by warm temps Colorado Colorado experienced warmer temperatures during the week ending June 21 accelerating the crop development, according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, Colorado Field Office, June 22. The dryer conditions allowed more time in the field, with most of the state still reporting good levels of irrigation water.
Checkoff partners with World Food Prize to Fight Hunger The soybean checkoff has joined forces with the World Food Prize, an organization devoted to addressing world hunger by meeting the food needs of a growing population. Each year, the program inducts a new member into its Hall of Laureates, currently being developed in Des Moines, Iowa. The 2009 WFP Laureate is Dr. Gebisa Ejeta, an Ethiopian scientist working at Purdue University, whose sorghum hybrids resistant to drought and weeds ...
NMPF Strategic Planning Task Force gets underway In response to the current economic milk price crisis affecting dairy farmers across the country, the National Milk Producers Federation's newly-formed Strategic Planning Task Force met in mid-June to focus on short-term solutions and to establish an aggressive schedule for addressing longer-term solutions to the problem. The Task Force immediately voted to recommend to the CWT Committee and the NMPF Board of Directors to direct any available ...
Pirate bug tag-team spells double trouble for thrips The minute pirate bug, Orius insidiosus, was formerly thought to work alone, spearing its prey with a long, needlelike beak and sucking out its victim's juices. But now it appears this tiny agricultural ally of commercial growers and home gardeners may have a partner: O. pumilio, a closely related species found hunting with it on an organic farm in Alachua County in north-central Florida. The 2008 discovery by Agricultural Research ...
Upcoming K-State agricultural events Kansas Kansas State University Research and Extension is offering the following area and statewide agricultural conferences and field days to all interested persons. For more information about these, as well as more localized events, check with your local K-
Tarleton students learn through service to others Texas The smell of wood shavings and sounds of animals are two things only experienced at a livestock show. From early morning feedings to show day preparation, it takes dedication and desire to be successful.
TDA takes first step toward delivering broadband service, high-speed connectivity to all Texas communities Texas The Texas Department of Agriculture, in coordination with the Public Utility Commission, is seeking proposals from telecommunications companies to map the state of Texas for broadband availability, which will help provide service to those areas lacking high-speed Internet connectivity. The agency will also create a task force to provide guidance for a statewide broadband ...
NRCS, KLA work as partners through Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative Kansas Eric B. Banks, Kansas State Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service, announced that a proposal submitted by the Kansas Livestock Association Environmental Services Inc., has been selected to participate in the Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative. The CCPI is a voluntary program established to foster conservation partnerships that focus technical and financial resources...
Summer annual forages Kansas Soil temperatures have reached 70 degrees F. If a summer annual forage is in your plans, its time to plant. What is the correct choice for your operation?
Tulia livestock auction report The Tulia Livestock Auction, Tulia, Texas, reported receipts of 2,365 head June 29, compared to 1,963 head last week and 1,251 head last year, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, Texas. Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers were steady to $1 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady.
St. Joseph feeder pigs The St. Joseph feeder pig auction, St. Joseph, Mo., reported estimated receipts of 50 head June 30, according to the USDA-Missouri Department of Agriculture Market News, St. Joseph, Mo. There were not enough feeder pigs on offer for an adequate market test. Prices were paid per head on actual weights.
Sioux Falls sheep sales The Sioux Falls sheep auction, Sioux Falls, S.D., reported receipts of 677 head June 30, compared to 745 head last week and 992 head last year, according to the USDA-South Dakota Department of Agriculture Market News Service, Sioux Falls, S.D. Compared to last week, slaughter lambs sold mostly $4 to $6 lower. Slaughter ewes and feeder lambs, again were too few in any weight group for an accurate trend to be established.
Ft. Smith livestock sales report The Ft. Smith Livestock, Ft. Smith, Ark., reported receipts of 586 head June 29, compared to 536 head last week and 446 head last year, according to the Arkansas Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News Service, Little Rock, Ark. Compared to last week, slaughter cows were $3 higher. Slaughter bulls were $5 higher.
Faith livestock sales report The Faith Livestock Commission Co., Faith, S.D., reported receipts of 704 head June 29, compared to 557 head two weeks ago and 250 head last year, according to the USDA-South Dakota Department of Agriculture Market News, Sioux Falls, S.D. Compared to two weeks ago, slaughter cows and bulls too lightly tested last sale for an accurate market trend this week. However, a higher undertone was noted on all classes.
Amarillo livestock sales report The Amarillo Livestock Auction, Amarillo, Texas, reported receipts of 712 head June 30, compared to 838 head last week, according to the USDA-Texas Department of Agriculture Market News, Amarillo, Texas. Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers were not enough to have an adequate market test except on 700- to 800-pound heifers which were steady to $1 lower. Slaughter cows were steady to $2 lower.
Woodward livestock auction report The Woodward Livestock Market, Woodward, Okla., reported receipts of 5,620 head June 26, compared to 4,185 head last week, according to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News, Oklahoma City, Okla. Compared to last week, feeder steers over 750 pounds were $1 to $2 higher, lighter weights were steady. Feeder heifers over 750 pounds were $2 to $3 higher, lighter weights were steady.
High Plains slaughter news High Plains weighted average direct slaughter cattle sales for the week ending June 28 totaled 192,287 head, compared to 155,592 head last week and 227,944 head last year, according to the USDA Market News Service, St. Joseph, Mo. The report was based on sales in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Iowa and Minnesota feedlots. Steers: Live FOB basis, over 80% Choice, 5,471 head, 1,300 to 1,460 lbs., 80.00 to 83.00 (81.13); 65 to 80% Choice, 14,...
Goldthwaite sheep sales report The Mills County Commission Co., Goldthwaite, Texas, June 26, reported receipts of 3,270 head of sheep and goats, compared to 2,272 head last week and 2,249 head last year, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, Texas. Compared to last week, stocker and feeder lambs were not tested. Slaughter lambs were steady.
Newell sheep sales report St. Onge Livestock Co., Ltd., Newell, S.D., reported receipts of 531 head June 25, compared to 1,396 head last week and 488 head last year, according to the USDA-South Dakota Department of Agriculture Market News, Sioux Falls, S.D. No accurate trends were available due to difference in numbers on offer compared to last week. Buyer attendance was light with moderate demand.
Dalhart livestock sales report The Cattleman's Livestock Auction, Dalhart, Texas, reported receipts of 838 head June 25, compared to 844 head last week and 2,051 head last year, according to the Texas Department of Agriculture Market News-USDA Market News, Amarillo, Texas. Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers were firm to $1 higher. Slaughter cows were $3 to $4 higher.
Clovis livestock auction report The Clovis Livestock Auction, Clovis, N.M., reported receipts of 1,151 head June 24, compared to 823 head last week and 1,305 head last year, according to the USDA-New Mexico Department of Agriculture Market News, Clovis, N.M. Compared to last week, feeder steers had no comparable sales under 500 pounds, while those over 500 pounds were $5 to $8 higher. Heifers under 500 pounds were steady to $1 higher on comparable sales, and those over 500 pounds were $3 to...
Arkansas livestock auction summary The weekly summary of livestock sales in Arkansas for the week ending June 26, showed estimated receipts of 7,425 head, compared to 6,839 head last week and 8,957 head last year, according to the Arkansas Extension Service-USDA Market News, Little Rock, Ark. Compared to last week, slaughter cows and bulls sold $3 to $4 higher. Feeders sold steady to $2 higher.
Apache livestock sales report Stockman's Livestock Inc., Apache, Okla., reported receipts of 1,661 head June 25, compared to 2,487 head last week and 2,692 head last year, according to the USDA-Oklahoma Department of Agriculture Market News, Oklahoma City, Okla. Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers were steady to $3 higher. Steer and heifer calves were steady to $1 lower.
Ada Livestock sales report The Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction, Ada, Okla., reported receipts of 1,435 head June 24, compared to 1,320 head last week and 1,460 head last year, according to the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture-USDA Market News, Oklahoma City, Okla. Compared to last week, feeder steers and heifers were steady. Flesh conditions were medium to fleshy.
Harvest in Manter, Kansas Tuesday, June 23 On Sunday morning we left Seiling, Okla., and made the first trip to our second stop in Manter, Kan. We have to make two trips with each move and we normally take the combine on the first trip, but we did it a little backwards this time.
2009 crop year uniform grain and rice storage agreement policy part of amendment With the publication of the Marketing Assistance Loan and Loan Deficiency Payments final rule on April 6, the regulation governing the MAL and LDP program was amended to incorporate a new policy for commercial storage. This regulatory change eliminated the requirement for public warehouses to execute a Uniform Grain and Rice Storage Agreement (UGRSA). Commodities covered by a UGRSA are wheat, barley, oats, corn,...
New designs for making old dams safer A group of Agricultural Research Service hydraulic engineers are helping to rehabilitate aging small dams across the country. Efforts are underway to upgrade existing auxiliary spillways or build new spillways for these dams, especially in Oklahoma. These upgraded or new spillways meet current dam safety standards and will increase the useful lives of the dams.
An American Classic with a twist Americans love grilled cheese sandwiches. In fact, they, eat more than 2 billion of them every year. And with many families working with tighter budgets these days, they're turning to simple and affordable meal items like grilled cheese sandwiches that will keep them satisfied and smiling.
Predator Awareness Day set for July 21 in Roby Texas Texas AgriLife Extension Service's office in Fisher County will conduct a predator awareness program from 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., July 21 in the community center in Roby. Three Texas Department of Agriculture continuing education units (one general and two integrated pest management) will be offered.
EPA grants exemption for desiccant use on canola Kansas The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has granted an emergency exemption to allow Kansas canola growers to use diquat dibromide as a pre-harvest treatment on as many as 50,000 acres of canola. ¬
Indian farmers who cashed out struggle with riches MUNIMPUR, India (AP)--For generations, the men of Munimpur worked their sun-baked wheat fields, rising before dawn to till the same soil their grandfathers plowed. That was when the land was made of dirt, not money. In recent years, tens of thousands of villagers across the country sold their fields to industrialists and developers building malls, suburbs and factories for the new India.
Colorado Cattlemen's Association hosts successful convention Colorado More than 400 members and guests were in attendance at the 142nd Annual Colorado Cattlemen's Convention and Trade Show in Grand Junction, June 14 to 17. Cattlemen from across the state took time to reflect on the past and plan for the future over the three-day conference.
Over 100 years of family livestock marketing experience behind LMA President, Vice President Livestock Marketing Association's top two elected officers, President Bobby Smith and Vice President David Macedo, bring to their positions over 100 years of combined family experience in the marketing business. They began the second year of their two-year terms at the recent LMA annual convention, held here. Smith, Fairview, Okla., grew up working in the market he now owns and operates.
Little dogies a growing business for Nebraska couple TEKAMAH, Neb. (AP)--From high on a wall at the Ali and Kenny Petersen house, the eyes of Old Rock stare resolutely and straight ahead into the distance. It's almost as if the mounted head of this Hereford bull and his mighty horns are standing guard over the nearby cardboard box that holds Babe and her six rubber-legged puppies. If you want to talk about "cute,'' Ali Petersen's eyes are more likely to fix on the puppies.
Nebraska's increase in irrigated acreage puts state first in the nation Nebraska While the number of irrigated acres is dropping in many parts of the country, it continues to rise in Nebraska, which now ranks first in the nation. Some areas of the state are over-irrigated, however, and significant limitations on future irrigation are looming, said Bruce Johnson, University of Nebraska-Lincoln agricultural economist.
Avian bacterium more dangerous than believed Bordetella hinzii just may be the Eddie Haskell of avian bacteria. Like the notoriously sneaky character from the iconic 1950s television show "Leave It to Beaver," B. hinzii has been causing trouble and dodging the blame. Until recently, B. hinzii was believed to be nonpathogenic in poultry.
New report shows ethanol lowers emissions, better for environment A new report by the Clean Fuels Development Coalition shows that ethanol is far better for the environment than gasoline and that corn ethanol can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 20 percent. The report, "Environmental Impacts of Ethanol Production," cites a U.S. Department of Energy study that found significant gains in efficiency in ethanol production. Between 2001 and 2006, ethanol production reduced its water ...
Book outlines biotech's potential to improve seed composition Biotechnology offers a realistic means to not only improve important seed components, but also to boost the overall nutritional quality of seeds, according to a recently published book edited and partly written by Hari B. Krishnan, an Agricultural Research Service scientist. The book, "Modification of Seed Composition to Promote Health and Nutrition," can serve as a textbook for students as well as a primer for scientists, ...
Bioplastics software being developed at ISU to be tested at international plastics show Iowa There is growing interest in finding renewable products that can be substituted for petrochemicals in a myriad of applications. While biobased plastics are seen as more environmentally preferable, clearly they won't be used commercially unless it can be determined they are economically viable.
Forage management strategies discussed at O.D. Butler Field Day As global populations increase, there will be added pressure on fuel and fertilizer needs in the coming years, according to a Texas AgriLife Extension Service expert. With fertilizer still an expensive input for forage producers, some producers are opting not to fertilize Bermuda grass fields, said Dr. Larry Redmon, AgriLife Extension state forage specialist. One option could be to replace Bermuda grass with another forage ...
Delegates selected to attend 38th annual NAYI Nebraska The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is pleased to announce the selection of 127 Nebraska high school juniors and seniors to attend the 38th annual Nebraska Agricultural Youth Institute. NAYI will be held July 12 to 16 at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln campus.
New Mexico FFA members receive awards New Mexico New Mexico FFA members won awards and received state and American FFA degrees during the 81st Annual FFA State Convention June 1 to 3 in Las Cruces at New Mexico State University. More than 80 members received their state FFA degrees by conducting an agribusiness enterprise, which required earning or investing $1,000 in the project and completing two years of agricultural education classes.
NMSU researchers want to use satellites to help pecan growers New Mexico Satellites can easily watch as pecan trees grow their leaves in the spring and as they lose those leaves in the fall. What's difficult is using satellites to figure out exactly how healthy those trees are during that time in between.
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