Farm press aggregate

Ag women fire back at comments criticizing saleswoman for riding in the combine

Thu, 01 Oct 2015 10:00:00 +0000

Women in agriculture took a step backward this week when a farmer’s wife bashed a female salesperson for presenting her sales pitch to her husband in the confined quarters of a combine during harvest season. Here are my thoughts on the subject; plus, four items that lift up women in agriculture.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

Wonderments about expansion in the current market

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:39:00 +0000

Will the recent price break for feeder cattle cut short the long-awaited herd expansion?

BEEF Editors' Blog

Book on cattle lameness now available from Zinpro

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:09:14 +0000

Cattle lameness is an issue that producers must work to continually stay on top of.

Certified Hereford Beef enjoys record year

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 13:54:18 +0000

As more and more consumers learn to rely on the consistency and promise of brand-name beef products, it’s a category that enjoys continued growth.

Eliminate silage deaths, injuries

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 13:43:58 +0000

It’s well known that ranching and farming is one of the most potentially dangerous occupations in the country. But where those dangers lie can be surprising.

How a 5K race helps to purchase ag-accurate books for students in North Dakota

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 10:00:00 +0000

For the third year, the North Dakota CattleWomen are hosting the “Beefin’ It Up - Fuel for the finish” 5K & 10K. Find out how this race supports agricultural education in North Dakota schools and show your support for this event by participating virtually. The details are on today’s blog.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

Who won our September photo contest? Plus, 3 voters take home prizes

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 10:00:00 +0000

Today we wrap up our Greeley Hat Works “Hard-working beef producer” photo contest. Find out who won the contest, plus, see if you are one of the lucky voters randomly selected to take home a prize.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

6 Trending Headlines: Cow confinement can improve pastures; PLUS: How’s the culture in your cowherd?

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:45:00 +0000

The idea of a confinement or semi-confinement cow-calf operation is growing in acceptance. That’s because, from several perspectives, it offers advantages to both the cattle and the cattle producer.

Does your local school support agricultural education?

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 10:00:00 +0000

Agricultural education in high schools offers practical lessons in math, science, reading and more while introducing students to careers in agriculture and teaching them life skills that are applicable to future jobs.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

GeneSeek earns Industry Partner Award from Red Angus

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 14:12:15 +0000

Red Angus breeders were pioneers in utilizing performance data and EPDs to make long-lasting and positive genetic improvement in their cattle.

Cattle Market Weekly Audio Report for Saturday, Sept, 26, 2015

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 05:16:00 +0000

Increasingly bearish fundamentals this week continued to compound expected seasonal pressures and shove prices lower for all classes of cattle. Yearling feeders traded $5-$10 per cwt lower with instances of $15 lower, according to the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS). Calves sold mostly $5-$15 lower with instances of $20 lower in the Midwest and Southeast.

Audio File:

FINAL-CMW-09-26-15.mp3

Heavier carcass weights offsetting lower placements

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 03:25:00 +0000

Softer fed cattle prices and increasing packer leverage, as cattle marketing becomes less current, suggests the value of additional pounds and delayed marketing is no longer worth the cost.

Fed cattle and wholesale beef lead price decline

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 03:18:00 +0000

Bearish fundamentals, including growing total red meat and poultry supplies, worsening feedlot economics, and the reported backlog of ultra-heavy cattle, continue to weigh on cattle prices.

A relationship with your veterinarian that works

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 18:44:00 +0000

BEEF’s survey reveals that most readers are happy with the services their veterinarians provide.

How to take advantage of today's record calf prices

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 18:27:00 +0000

It is interesting to note that the high-profit, top 20% herds earned $724 per cow, a 10% higher earned economic return than average. The low-profit, bottom 20% herds earned $325 per cow, a return of 50% less.

Cattle Economics

Weekly Cattle Market Wrap-Up | Feeder cattle face another tough week

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 16:11:00 +0000

Feeder cattle prices were tough all week. The Monday auctions enjoyed a small jump in the CME, but the Wednesday auctions had the CME locked the limit down.

Audio File:

Beef Mag fdr ctl and cow audio 2015 09 24.mp3

Range Beef Cow Symposium offers practical information

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 15:04:00 +0000

Mark your calendar for the Range Beef Cow Symposium, Nov. 17-19.

How do you react when the (really) bad days happen?

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:58:00 +0000

Bad days in the ranching business happen. Sometimes, really bad days happen. When they do, how do you react?

My View From The Country

Here’s what separates the empire builders from the rest

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:54:00 +0000

Those who start at the bottom and reach the very top of the cattle business do things differently.

My View From The Country

How do you use antibiotics? A new survey wants to know

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:38:00 +0000

All beef producers can participate in a first-of-its kind survey exploring producer opinions about antibiotic use and resistance in cattle.

BEEF Editors' Blog

Is ag education supported in your school district?

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:33:11 +0000

An article recently in a Nebraska newspaper indicated a surge in interest by high school administrators in ag education programs.

Beef prices at new all-time highs

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:31:00 +0000

Retail beef prices are at all-time highs versus competing meats.

Limousin breed, Tyson align to offer value-added programs to producers

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:43:59 +0000

Vertical cooperation between segments of the beef business has proven its value to every participant in the production chain—cow-calf producer, feedyard and packer.

Hay growers win big in New Holland photo contest

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:28:53 +0000

Hay season is over, but the sights, sounds and memories of that first day in the field are still fresh on the minds of hay growers.

Why USDA is encouraging veterans to pursue careers in agriculture

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 10:00:00 +0000

The USDA and Department of Defense recently unveiled plans to offer career training and support to Service members interested in pursuing careers in agriculture. Find out how veterans are being encouraged to explore job opportunities in rural America in today’s blog.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

4 things to remember during National Farm Safety & Health Week

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 10:00:00 +0000

National Farm Safety and Health Week is this week. The annual event runs Sept. 20-26, and it’s a good time to remember to slow down, put safety first, avoid unnecessary risks and keep your family intact. Here are four things to remember this week to be safe on the ranch.

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

Sage grouse, Western ranchers dodge the ESA bullet, sort of

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 03:18:00 +0000

A great rejoicing was heard across the West this week following the announcement that listing the Greater sage grouse under the Endangered Species Act is not warranted. Or maybe it was a collective sigh of relief.

BEEF Editors' Blog

Chipotle sued again for statewide salmonella outbreak in Minnesota stores

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 20:04:00 +0000

A second Minnesota lawsuit has been filed against Chipotle after a statewide salmonella outbreak occurred in the burrito chain’s stores.

VOTE NOW: 15 photo finalists depicting hard-working ranchers

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 09:01:00 +0000

We’ve selected 15 finalists in September’s “Hard-working beef producers” photo contest. Now it’s time to choose our winners. The finalist who receives the most votes will take home a $300 Greeley Hat Works hat; plus, three voters will take home a western photography coffee table book!

Content Classification: Curated

BEEF Daily

Embrace the water availability debate or else?

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 19:03:00 +0000

How cattle and agriculture fare in the ultimate allocation and use of water will have plenty to do with producer leadership.

Corn diseases: Tar spot Q+A

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 20:45:00 +0000

Source: Ohio State University

A few weeks ago, Tar Spot, a new disease of corn caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis, was reported for the first time in the U.S., first in Indiana and then in Illinois. It was later found as far east as Allen County, IN, bordering Paulding County in northwest Ohio. Pierce Paul, Ohio State University, offers these answers about the new disease.

Corn stocks up 41% from September 2014, soybean stocks up 108%

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:16:00 +0000

Source: USDA

Old-crop corn stocks in all positions on Sept. 1, 2015 totaled 1.73 billion bushels, up 41% from Sept. 1, 2014. Old-crop soybeans stored in all positions on Sept. 1, 2015 totaled 191 million bushels, up 108% from Sept. 1, 2014.

Can corn prices break through macro head winds?

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 21:36:00 +0000

Corn continues to run into heavy resistance on the charts each time it tries to advance between $3.85 and $4.05 per bushel. Extreme macro commodity head winds around the globe also continue to work against the bullish players.

Grain Market Viewpoint

Choosing the next enterprise for the farm operation

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 20:15:00 +0000

There is no magic silver bullet in selecting the next best enterprise for your farm operation. First, assess the goals and values of the business, family and personal lives. After examining the goals, ascertain whether adding a new enterprise is consistent with the goals, both short and long-term. It does not matter what the new enterprise may be if the current business cannot support it.

Road Warrior

Lower crop prices should impact land rental rates

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 13:40:00 +0000

Average rental rates for 2015 did drop a bit in some areas, but in general have remained quite high across the region. Farm operators and landlords are now beginning the process of negotiating land rental contracts for the 2016 crop year, and are trying to arrive at equitable rental rates, based on the lower crop prices that we are now experiencing.

Focus on Ag

How does tillage impact soil health?

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:55:00 +0000

Dust storms, rills and gullies, soil crusting, runoff, ponding — these are above-ground signs of poor soil health. And below ground: weak soil aggregation, compaction, impaired biological life, restricted water infiltration, stagnant smell, gray color. The prime culprit? Tillage.

5 Agriculture stories to read, Sept. 25, 2015

Sat, 26 Sep 2015 00:50:00 +0000

In the 5 agriculture stories to read this week, get some tips for harvesting down corn and insight into reduced fertilizer application given low commodity prices. Read about climate change consensus from non-climate scientists and learn which farm management practices are the worst. Finally, read an article reminding us that GMOs are more than just food.

China and Brazil take control of the soybean market

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 20:28:00 +0000

Soybean bulls were happy to see China, the world's top soybean importer, sign a commitment letter to buy 13.18 million metric tons. This was obviously a welcomed event, especially when you consider last year the Chinese delegation agreed to buy just 4.8 million tons.

Grain Market Viewpoint

4 Considerations for fall herbicide applications

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 17:54:00 +0000

Source: Ohio State University

Herbicide options and different sites of action may have some farmers forgoing fall herbicide application. However, Mark Loux, Ohio State University Extension, says that fall herbicide treatments may be beneficial in cases. Here are some considerations before you wash your hands of fall application.

Midwest harvest updates

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 17:01:00 +0000

Corn and soybean harvest are underway across the Midwest. Experts from WinField are keeping tabs on what's happening in their area and sharing field conditions, harvest progress and more.

Farm Progress Show 2015: New, updated tractors and combines

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 16:05:00 +0000

Check out the latest upgraded and new tractors and combines from some of your favorite brands: New Holland, Agco, Case IH and more. These will be available for the 2016 growing and harvest seasons.

Cash rent changes for 2016

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 19:44:00 +0000

Source: University of Illinois

Cash rents on professionally managed farmland likely will decrease for the 2016 cropping year. Rents on non-professionally managed farmland likely will decrease as well. However, projected rent decreases are not large enough to cause farmers to have positive returns in 2016.

Straight lines on yield maps are man-made

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 18:20:00 +0000

Straight lines are one of the first “gotchas” when studying a yield map. The cause for yield differences that follow straight lines are always man-made! Seeing a straight line on a yield map instantly leads to digging deeper.

Would you burn working capital to keep farming?

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 20:52:00 +0000

First, one must consider the producer’s goals; business, family and personal. Next, look at the current business position. If the business is near the stage of exit perhaps the financial losses and negative margins are not a good use of the excess working capital.

Road Warrior

Upper Midwest corn, beans ready for harvest

Tue, 22 Sep 2015 20:34:00 +0000

The warm late growing season this year has pushed the 2015 corn and soybean crop very rapidly toward maturity. Soybean harvest has begun on some earlier maturing varieties in many areas. Some early corn hybrids have also reached physiological maturity and will likely be ready to harvest very soon.

Focus on Ag

Farm Progress Show 2015: Digital tools for on-farm data, precision ag

Sat, 19 Sep 2015 01:57:00 +0000

While at the 2015 Farm Progress show, we came across these digital tools to help you farm more efficiently, and gather data you can use.

5 Agriculture stories to read, Sept. 18, 2015

Sat, 19 Sep 2015 00:51:00 +0000

In the 5 ag stories to read this week, get some tips for successful weed control and learn about a new corn disease. Read about a Taiwanese commitment to purchase U.S. corn and soybeans and get tips for adjusting your combine for soybean harvest. Finally, enjoy a very sharable video about the actual amount of herbicide used per application per acre.

Soybeans prices could be a surprise winner

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 18:06:00 +0000

With global demand for soy fairly stable at this level and continued political uncertainty brewing in Argentina and Brazil, I'm going to stay patient in regard to reducing more new-crop risk. From a spec perspective, I like the thought of buying a deep break.

Grain Market Viewpoint

Farming for water

Thu, 17 Sep 2015 20:43:00 +0000

Farmer uses cover crops, no-till to handle wet soils, weeds.

While many farmers rely on spring tillage to dry out wet soils, Jerry Ackerman goes the other way. His cover crop/no-till program helps him handle heavy rains and wet soils better than tillage and drain tiles. In 2013, it even helped him fight waterhemp thanks to the strips of cereal rye he seeded the previous fall in soybeans and corn.

Will Fed's move support the corn market?

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 13:03:00 +0000

There's a lot of talk that corn might take several runs to break-through the $3.95 to $4.05 area vs. the DEC15 contract. There's also talk that the funds have been covering some of their short positions in several markets as they try to lighten up the load ahead of the uncertainty surrounding the Fed's next move on Thursday.

Grain Market Viewpoint

Smaller corn supplies could offer price rallies

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 20:50:00 +0000

Source: University of Illinois

With corn supplies for the 2015-16 marketing year less burdensome than projected earlier, there will likely be opportunities for price rallies over the next several months. Producers in many parts of the Corn Belt will likely see opportunities to forward price stored corn for late winter/early spring delivery above $4.00.

Sequestration likely to affect farm program payments

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 20:38:00 +0000

Many farm operators in the Upper Midwest are anticipating significant county-based Ag Risk Coverage (ARC-CO) farm program payments on corn for the 2014 crop year. Some producers are also likely to receive a fairly substantial ARC-CO payment for soybeans for the 2014 marketing year. It was recently revealed that the likely 2014 ARC-CO farm program payments, and any other farm program payments, are likely be subject to Federal government sequestration provisions.

Focus on Ag

Will you seed cover crops this year?

Tue, 15 Sep 2015 18:28:13 +0000

Cover crops are gaining in usage across the Corn Belt. We'd like to know, do you plan to plant cover crops this fall? If so, on how many acres of your row-crop fields? Or, perhaps you won't plant any at all. Take our latest poll and let us know. Feel free to leave a comment with your location and planned cover crop acreage.

Go to result page on submit: Go to result page on submit

Worst farm management practices

Mon, 14 Sep 2015 19:38:00 +0000

This is my list of the worst top 10 management practices. There are most certainly other aspects and components that are very important for businesses, but this list demonstrates that discipline is required for success. Even the mundane, seemingly boring tasks and details can be extremely important.

Road Warrior

Crop production and WASDE recap

Sat, 12 Sep 2015 01:35:00 +0000

Source: USDA

Corn production slightly down, prices up; soybean production slightly up, prices unchanged

Corn production is forecast at 13.6 billion bushels, down 4% from last year's record production and down less than 1% from the August forecast. Soybean production is forecast at 3.94 billion bushels, up slightly from August but down 1% from last year.

5 Agriculture stories to read, Sept. 11, 2015

Sat, 12 Sep 2015 00:51:00 +0000

In the 5 ag stories to read this week, get tips for calibrating your yield monitor and help identifying different stalk rots in your corn fields. Learn about a possible reduction in ARC payments and read some questions and answers about cutting $100/acre in 2016. Finally, enjoy a harvest-time parody from Peterson Farm Bros.

Midwest crop progress update

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 20:46:00 +0000

What's happening in corn and soybean fields around the Midwest? Here are crop conditions, growth stages, disease reports and more from agronomy experts at WinField.

Harvest and post-harvest tips for corn and soybeans

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 20:15:00 +0000

Harvest is starting, and we want you to get the most out of your corn and soybean fields this fall. Here are our best stories, tips and ideas for optimal corn and soybean harvesting, as well as ideas for after harvest, including grain bag use, cover crops and storage tips.

USDA info provides tailwinds for corn prices

Fri, 11 Sep 2015 19:42:00 +0000

Corn has rallied a bit this week ahead of what some inside the trade are thinking could be bullish adjustments by the USDA. Technically I still see heavy resistance up in the $3.85 to $4.05 range and believe it will be tough for corn prices to stay above this area until more harvest details become available

Grain Market Viewpoint

Sweeten soybean yields

Thu, 10 Sep 2015 19:03:00 +0000

Neighboring beehives may boost soybean yields, reduce some pest pressure.

Alabama soybean grower Annie Dee is working with nature on her 2,500 acres. The United Soybean Board member has seen the benefit of beneficial insects in her own fields and is supplementing native populations with honeybees.

Researchers study ‘mysterious’ lower limb dieback disease in almond

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:08:00 +0000

Vicky Boyd, Contributing Writer

Since lower limb dieback (LLDB) was first identified in almonds more than 10 years ago, the disease has confounded growers and researchers alike.

Using nickel to solve 'mouse ear' issue in pecans

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 21:05:00 +0000

Vicky Boyd, Contributing Writer

Although nickel deficiency in pecans is fairly common in some orchards, associated ‘mouse ear’ symptoms can be corrected with foliar applications of the micronutrient, university Extension specialists report.

NOW pressure builds in walnuts, prompts call for winter sanitation

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 20:57:00 +0000

Vicky Boyd, Contributing Writer

For years, University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) farm advisers have reminded almond growers about the importance of winter orchard sanitation as part of year-round Navel orangeworm (NOW) control.

EPA revises 1992 Ag Worker Protection Standards

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 23:02:00 +0000

California could begin process to update its own regulations in 2016

Federal EPA releases revisions to 1992 Agricultural Worker Protection Standards

Grumpy Goats Farm prepares for 2015 olive harvest

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 19:28:00 +0000

Grumpy Goats Farm prepares for its 2015 harvest of olives for their award-winning oils

CAPCA ED Organic Seminar, Dec. 3, Woodland

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 19:14:00 +0000

CAPCA ED seminar on sustainable and organic production of field crops in Sacramento Valley

Location

Yolo County Fairgrounds

1250 E. Gum Ave.

Woodland, CA 95776

United States

38° 40' 5.9124" N , 121° 45' 47.8872" W

See map: Google Maps

An all-day seminar will focus on sustainable and organic production of field crops, vegetables, and orchards in the Sacramento Valley.

The event takes place Dec. 3 at the Yolo County Fairgrounds, 1250 E. Gum Ave., Woodland, Calif.

Cost is $60 for members and non-members; $20 for students.

Subjects include:

An update by the Yolo County Ag Commissioner
Integrated pest management strategies
Organic processing tomato production
Mycorrhizal inoculants
Carbon sequestration
Soil health
The role of bats
The ABC’s of organic production; and,
A grower panel discussion on the challenges of fertility and pest control

There will be exhibits from firms providing products acceptable for certified organic production.

Six hours of CEU’s are offered for Certified Crop Advisers and licensed Department of Pesticide Professionals.

Registration is available online for the course.

For more information contact Mindy DeRohan at (916) 928-1625, ext. 207, or mindy@capca.com.

10 must-read drought stories for Sept. 30

Sun, 27 Sep 2015 22:41:00 +0000

If El Niño marches in like a lion, California could go from one disaster to another

What happens if El Niño comes in as predicted? Will California go from one disaster to another?

Peach fruit fly found in Fresno, Calif. neighborhood

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 23:14:00 +0000

Peach fruit fly discovered in residential neighborhood in Fresno, Calif. Officials place more traps to check for infestation.

Deep dive: Water issues to be explored at The Almond Conference

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 20:01:00 +0000

Jenny Nicolau, Manager, Industry Relations, Almond Board of California

Exclusive to Western Farm Press

With drought, water quality, and water availability on the minds of every California almond grower, the Almond Board of California (ABC) is preparing a full day of sessions on every aspect of water at the 43^rd annual Almond Conference to be held in Sacramento Dec. 8–10.

Regardless of orchard size or level of management expertise, everyone will take away timely information for understanding water issues and finding pragmatic solutions to address the challenges they face in water-short years.

Why does milk pricing have to be so complicated?

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 15:49:00 +0000

Could U.S. policy be to blame for the extremes in dairy pricing and for causing dairymen to go out of business?

Farm Press Blog

Why does milk pricing have to be so complicated?

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 15:49:00 +0000

Could U.S. policy be to blame for the extremes in dairy pricing and for causing dairymen to go out of business?

Farm Press Blog

Insecticide efficacy trials at Yuma Agricultural Center

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 23:57:00 +0000

There are many insecticides on the market today and finding the right product for the right pest and the right plant in commercial agriculture can be quite a challenge for growers.

Among these agricultural researchers who test insecticides in field trials includes

Latest insecticides improve efficacy against produce pests

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 23:28:00 +0000

With the 2015-2016 winter produce season underway in the low desert, a large blip on the radar screens for growers and their crop advisers is pest threats.

Produce insect pests are broken down into eight categories, including whitefly, worms, leafminer, aphids, thrips, and others. Thanks to evolving chemical technology, the good news is the produce industry has a tool box full of effective insecticides to combat pests.

Federal milk order hearings under way in California

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 21:14:00 +0000

California 'discount' in milk for cheese seen as driver to leave state order

California dairy producers seek to join Federal Milk Marketing Order after years of unsuccessful attempts to gain parity in cheese milk prices

Lower prices, chlorpyrifos scrutiny dominate talks with alfalfa growers

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 14:49:00 +0000

Dennis Pollock, Contributing Writer

A leading authority on growing alfalfa in California sang much the same tune at this year’s alfalfa and forage field day in Parlier, Calif., but he tweaked the lyrics this time since in his words, “It’s a down year for alfalfa.”

Acreage is down and so are prices for lower or medium quality hay, said Dan Putnam, alfalfa and forage specialist with the University of California, Davis (UC Davis).

Making the most of weather reports to improve pest management in your vineyard

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 14:29:00 +0000

Greg Northcutt

Track all kinds of agricultural weather information from throughout California with UC IPM Weather Networks.

Fresno County grower expects higher yields and a good quality crop from 2015 raisin harvest

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 14:17:00 +0000

Greg Northcutt

Two weeks after mechanically-harvesting his 310 acres of Thompson Seedless grapes and laying them on continuous trays to dry, Mitch Sangha started picking them up on Sept. 14.

Despite drop in yields, grower praises 2015 Napa Valley crop for its quality

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 13:52:00 +0000

Greg Northcutt

Workers harvesting grapes at Trefethen Family Vineyards, located in the Oak Knoll District at the southern end of the Napa Valley, aren’t getting their typical break between varieties this year.

Neonic debate seeks to sift bad science from good

Wed, 23 Sep 2015 00:10:00 +0000

Researchers realize complexities of colony collapse disorder

Researchers realize colony collapse disorder in honeybees has many complexities and cannot be blamed simply on neonicotinoids

10 must-read drought stories for Sept. 23

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 18:28:00 +0000

Will El Niño break the drought or just wreck the levees?

California’s 2015 pistachio crop could be down

Mon, 21 Sep 2015 18:23:00 +0000

Early indications suggest 2015 may yield a shorter harvest for California pistachio growers. A shortage of chilling hours is largely to blame though the drought is not without complicity in the matter.

Looking at bright side of troubling cotton industry

Sun, 20 Sep 2015 22:18:00 +0000

Harry Cline, Farm Press Editor Emeritus

The finest Acala Upland and Extra Long Staple (ELS) Pima cottons in the world are produced in California. Fiber buyers worldwide know them well as the finest cotton around for producing premium textiles.

However, factors far from the turn-rows are pressuring that enviable position to the point that even the most optimistic in the industry are admitting concern for the future of California cotton because acreage is disappearing faster than a spinning 4,000-rpm picker spindle.

Pacheco family grows food, fiber even with urban encroachment

Sat, 19 Sep 2015 00:10:00 +0000

The Pacheco family of Marana, Ariz. knows first hand about two things: farming successfully for three generations and now facing the likely loss of their farm in time due to urban encroachment from the greater Tucson area.

Yet the Pachecos are proud and profitable farmers, and will continue to farm as long as they can.

Enjoy these photos of the Pacheco family and their food and fiber operation.

Ag at Large - Study reveals California farm worker stability

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 22:12:00 +0000

Don Curlee, Ag at Large Commentary

A new study shows that the enormous farm work force in California - more than 800,000 by some counts - is becoming increasingly stable, and the need for it is growing in spite of gains made by mechanical harvesting.

Statistics reveal that about 60 percent of farm workers work for one employer, and those who shift from one work location to another only change once during a season.

The percentage of workers who are undocumented (here illegally) has decreased by 10 percent in the past 10 years.

USDA help for farmers, ranchers affected by wildfire

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 17:39:00 +0000

Programs available to help those who lost livestock, grazing land and eligible crops

USDA offers assistance for farmers, ranchers affected by wildfire

Pacheco family – feeding, clothing the world from the urban fringe

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 14:59:00 +0000

Only a painted concrete block wall and a dirt road separate the Pacheco family’s farm shop and equipment shed from a spanking new subdivision of stucco-based tile-roofed houses next door - about 100 feet apart to be precise.

Despite the closeness between the still rural yet urbanizing town of Marana, Ariz. and the family’s agricultural enterprise, Dan Pacheco keeps hard at work managing the almost 1,600 acre operation.

More locations line up to legalize urban bee colonies

Thu, 17 Sep 2015 01:37:00 +0000

Now San Diego wants to legalize urban beekeeping near schools, parks

Farm Press Blog

California Navel forecast looks bright, despite drought

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 22:39:00 +0000

California Navel orange forecast projected at 86 million cartons in 2014-15 season

International Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce Symposium, Nov. 11-13, Yuma

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 17:04:00 +0000

Location

Pivot Point Conference Center

310 N Madison Ave

Yuma 85364

United States

See map: Google Maps

The International Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce Symposium is scheduled for Nov. 11-13, 2015 in Yuma, Ariz. The meeting will be held at the Pivot Point Conference Center.

Agenda:

Nov. 11

5:30 -6:30 p.m. - Hosted Social Mixer/Reception; Registration Opens

Nov. 12

Main conference - CEU’s applied for

Session 1

8:00 a.m. - Registration and Continental Breakfast

8:30 - Welcome and Conference Overview - Paul Brierley, Director, Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture

8:45 - Session 1: A Global Overview of Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce - Moderator: Barry Pryor, University of Arizona (UA)

“Fusarium Wilt on Vegetables and Lettuce: Importance, Diagnostics and Challenges” - Steven Koike, University of California Cooperative Extension, Monterey County

“Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce in Japan: Applications in Integrated Disease Management” - Masashi Fujinaga, Nagano Prefecture Agricultural Experiment Station, Japan

“Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce: The Arizona Story” - Mike Matheron, UA

“Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce in Europe” - Lodovica Gullino, Agroinnova Research Center, University of Turin, Italy

“Managing Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce in Brazil” - Ainton Reis, EMBRAPA, Brazil

10:15- Networking Snack Break

10:30

Session 2: Tools for Management of Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce - Moderator: Mike Matheron, UA

“Factors Influencing Severity of Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce in California” - Tom Gordon, University of California, Davis

“Detection, Management and Impact of Seedborne Inoculum on Fusarium Wilt of Lettuce” - Barry Pryor, UA

“Fusarium Wilt Management in Organic Production/Biocontrol” - Lodovica Gullino, Agroinnova Research Center, University of Turin, Italy

“Genetics and Genomics of Disease Resistance in Lettuce with Particular Reference toFusarium Wilt Resistance” - Richard Michelmore, UC, Davis

“USDA Breeding Efforts and Successes to Date” - Jim McCreight, USDA Salinas Research Station

Noon - Networking Lunch

12:45

Session 3: Practical Management Strategies: Successes and Failures from the Field - Moderator: Kurt Nolte, UA

Grower-Industry Panel:

Clark Webb, Product Development, The Dune Company

Hank Giclas, VP, Strategic Planning, Science & Technology, Western Growers Association

Jesus Tovar, Owner, T&P Farms

Larry Knerr, Director of Research & Development, 3 Star Lettuce

Mary Zischke, CEO, California Leafy Greens Research Program

Matt McGuire, General Manager, JV Farms

2:15 - Bus Leaves for Field Trip to Fusarium Wilt Variety Trial

2:45 - Visit Fusarium Wilt Variety Trial

4:00 - Bus Tour of Yuma Agriculture

5:00 - Bus Returns to Conference Center

6:00 - Hosted Reception and Dinner

Nov. 13

BRAINSTORMING SESSION – INVITATION ONLY

8:00 - Continental Breakfast

8:30 - Review of Day 1; Overview of Day 2

8:45 - Facilitated Brainstorming Session

Defining the most promising near-term solutions/management tools and an overarching initiative to accomplish them (including project partners and funding resources)

11:30 - Symposium Wrap-up and Adjourn

For more information and free registration, go online to http://yceda.cals.arizona.edu - register by Oct. 11.

Contact Paul Brierley at (928) 920-4983 or paulbrierley@email.arizona.edu.

Arizona voters understand connection between food, water, farmers-ranchers

Wed, 16 Sep 2015 15:52:00 +0000

Farm Press Staff

85 percent concerned about water availability for Arizona agriculture

Arizona voters clearly understand the relationship between water, food, and the farm and ranch families who produce it, according to a recent poll conducted by Public Opinion Strategies.

The poll results were released at the Arizona Agricultural Water Summit held Sept. 17 in Glendale.

The survey of likely Arizona voters provides a glimpse on how they think Arizona’s farm and ranch families are doing at conserving and managing water, and how voters might prioritize solutions today.

Higher quality cotton is a must for U.S. cotton industry: Part II

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:07:00 +0000

Cotton breeders working to improve fiber quality and yield to help keep U.S. cotton industry viable for years to come.

Jeremy Zwinger to discuss rice outlook for U of A webinar

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 15:05:00 +0000

University of Arkansas Food and Agribusiness Webinar to feature The Rice Trader's Jeremy Zwinger's thoughts on the rice market following a recent trip to Asia.

10 top stories for September 2015

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 14:06:00 +0000

Here are the top 10 stories from Delta Farm Press in September 2015

Plant breeding, digital science - meeting world food demand

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 12:53:00 +0000

Rick Bogren and Bruce Schultz, LSU AgCenter

Researchers should be integrating information science with applied plant breeding to serve a growing world population, says plant geneticist Susan McCouch.

Delta Farm Press Calendar of Events

Wed, 30 Sep 2015 11:42:00 +0000

Meetings, trade shows, field days and conferences for those involved in Mid-South agriculture.

Body conditioning scores key to beef profits

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 14:57:00 +0000

Johnny Morgan, LSU AgCenter

Beef producers need to be aware of the importance of the body conditioning scores of the cattle. Unproductive cattle cost more money than they are worth, says LSU AgCenter area beef specialist Jason Holmes.

Grain sorghum growers were ready for sugarcane aphids

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 14:22:00 +0000

Linda Breazeale, Mississippi State University

After causing significant challenges in 2014, sugarcane aphids did not catch Mississippi’s grain sorghum growers by surprise this year.

Soybean harvest nears finish after difficult growing season

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:23:00 +0000

Mid-South producers faced major obstacles in 2015

As harvest advances, Extension specialists describe the Mid-South soybean season as rather bi-polar. “From beginning to end this has been a year of extremes for Mississippi farmers,” says Trent Irby.

Farm bill’s PLC helps boost U.S. peanut acres by 20 percent

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 15:09:00 +0000

New farm program appears to be helping drive increase in peanut acres in Georgia, other states.

Low-input cotton for tough times

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 14:14:00 +0000

Ernie Flint, Mississippi Extension Agronomist

Cotton is a very different from soybeans or corn in that it can deal with stresses as they arrive and rebound to set and mature bolls.