University of Delaware Kent County Agricultural Extension

Grain Marketing Update

2012-02-02T03:01:00.001-05:00

Current grain marking information from Carl German, Extension Crops Marking Specialist, UD:

Corn Analysis

The short-term uptrend in corn appears to be growing stronger after the March contract closed above last week's high at $6.45 3/4. This also happens to be the 33 percent retracement of the downtrend from the all-time high of $7.99 3/4 to the December low of $5.70 on the continuous weekly chart. Buying came from both sides of the market as South American weather continues to be a concern. The corn market is also being supported by the weaker dollar and stronger Dow. Talks are continuing to intended to reach a deal concerning the Greek debt situation. The weekly export inspections report for U.S. corn was bearish.

Soybeans Analysis

The nearby March contract has moved back above the $12.00 level, setting the stage for a likely test of resistance near $12.29. Recent rains turned out to be less than anticipated over Argentina, and with southern Brazil remaining hot and dry, the crop is far from made. Tuesday saw private estimates coming in about 8 MMT below USDA's January estimate for South America. If realized, global stocks-to-use would shrink to the tightest level since the ‘08/’09 marketing year providing demand remains intact. USDA announced another sale to China this morning of 120,000 metric tons. Additional buying interest should come from the weaker U.S. dollar, now trading at its lowest level since mid-December. Weekly export inspections for soybeans were bullish.

Wheat Analysis

The rally in Chicago wheat continued overnight with the March contract now bidding a penny above the November high at $6.82 in today’s trade. The next area of resistance is the October high at $6.97. Since mid-December, Chicago wheat has rallied about $1.00 per bushel. Noncommercial traders are reported to be offsetting their short futures positions. Winter kill remains a concern in Russia, Ukraine and Eastern Europe due to cold temperatures. Russia is expected to curb exports as a result, which should improve U.S. prospects. USDA announced a sale of 120,000 metric tons of soft red winter wheat to unknown destinations. Weekly export inspections for wheat were bullish.

Market Strategy

New crop corn, soybean, and SRW wheat prices, like old crop prices, are currently in a short term uptrend. Currently, Dec ’12 corn futures are trading at $5.70; Nov ’12 soybean futures at $12.15; and July SRW wheat at $7.02 per bushel. Weekly export sales will be reported tomorrow morning. USDA’s next monthly supply/demand report will be released on Thursday, February 9^th. For technical assistance on making grain marketing decisions contact:

Carl L. German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist

Department of Food & Resource Economics

208 Townsend Hall

University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-2130

Phone: 302-831-1317 Fax: 302-831-6243

List Owner: E-Grain Marketing Club grn-mktdg@udel.edu;

Farmer's Grain Marketing Primer www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com; and

Farmer's Grain Marketing Decision Aid www.webixi.com/grainguide.

General Principles of Nitrogen Management for Winter Wheat

2012-02-01T06:46:00.000-05:00

With the warmer than normal weather, there are questions about nitrogen management in small grains. Below are some general principles of nitrogen management from Virginia Cooperative Extension:

Autumn

The winter wheat plant has a generalized N uptake pattern that is depicted by the curve shown in Figure 1. A crop that is planted on time for a particular location germinates, emerges, and tillers prior to the dormancy period that generally begins in December in Virginia. Dry matter production and thus N requirement is rather low during the autumn, but N is required to establish the crop and promote the production of fall tillers. Fall tillers are those that will begin growth first in the spring, and generally produce heads with more kernels. Root systems are also developed in the autumn, and are generally larger than the top growth. Well-developed roots reduce winter-kill and prepare the plant to efficiently utilize nutrients and moisture from the soil. Nitrogen fertilization in excess of the amount which the plant can utilize prior to dormancy creates the potential for leaching losses of the N. Plants with excessive fall growth are also more susceptible to disease infection and winter-kill. Hence, a moderate amount (15-30 lbs. of N/acre) is all that is needed for establishing a timely-planted winter wheat crop.

Figure 1. Nitrogen uptake pattern for winter wheat grown in the Coastal Plain region of Virginia.

Winter

The wheat crop utilizes very little N during winter dormancy. Nitrogen applied early in the dormancy period is subject to leaching and/or run-off losses. Applying large amounts of N during January on frozen ground, and expecting this N to be available for producing grain in April and May, is not reasonable because of our climatic conditions and the growth pattern of wheat. However, there are situations, particularly on very sandy soils in the Coastal Plain region, in which a small N application in January may be beneficial. If all of the following conditions are met, some N fertilization in January may be useful. First, significant leaching rains between October and December, for example, > 3.5 inches of precipitation during one rainfall event. Second, a thin stand of wheat with pale green color due to lack of available N. Third, an expectation for the specific site that several growing days (temperatures of 50 degrees F or greater) will occur in January and early February. Temperatures in January will likely exceed 50 degrees F several days in the Coastal Plain and Southern Piedmont areas, but not in Northern Virginia or the Valley region. Such conditions might warrant an application of 30 lbs. of N per acre to encourage tillering and root growth. However, potential losses to the environment are great with such applications, and they should be made only after careful consideration of the specific field conditions, and the N application should not exceed 30 lbs. N/acre.

Late Winter/Early Spring

The wheat crop breaks dormancy in late February/early March in most areas of Virginia. As growth begins so does the crop's requirement for N. Late winter/early spring growth is characterized by further tillering of the crop prior to stem elongation (Zadoks growth stage 30, Figure 2). Since the initial growth is usually rather slow because of cool temperatures, the initial N fertilizer application should be as near to the initiation of growth as it is possible to estimate for the specific site. It is important, however, to realize that fields with low tiller numbers should receive the first N applications so that spring tiller production is not delayed due to a lack of plant-available N. Reference to Figure 1 shows that N uptake is usually not great during the period of mid-February to mid-March. Again, this closely matches the growth or dry-matter production pattern for the crop. Excessive N applications during the early-spring tillering phase can result in spindly plants that are more likely to lodge and be susceptible to diseases such as powdery mildew. Nitrogen applications during this period should not exceed 60 lbs. N/acre if split-spring N applications are planned. Applications greater than 60 lbs. N/acre during late winter have not increased yields when followed with appropriate N fertilization at GS 30.

Figure 2. Growth stages of wheat according to the Zadoks and Feekes scales.

Return to Table of Contents

Stem Elongation

The leaf sheath erection growth phase, GS 30, signals the beginning of stem elongation and the most rapid phase of wheat growth. Two important factors are occurring during this time. First, the potential number of kernels per head is being established during the embryonic formation of the head. Second, rapid N uptake begins (Figure 1). Management must now be directed to maintaining developing heads. Inadequate available N causes tiller abortion with resulting lowered harvest population. Some tillers will always be lost. However, stands with marginal populations at the end of tillering are likely to have lower yields due to low numbers of heads/sq. ft. at harvest. The initial phase of head development is occurring at GS 30. The late winter/early spring N application should be adequate to develop the embryonic head. Visually, the crop should have a medium to dark green color and be vigorously growing by GS 30. If the crop is beginning to show signs of chlorosis (yellowing), then the application of N at this stage is critical for the development of adequate head size. Priority should be given to N treatments for crops showing a lack of adequate N at this stage of growth. The question of N fertilizer amounts at this growth stage will be discussed in a later section of this report. Finally, GS 30 indicates that the wheat plant is about to embark on its most rapid period of vegetative growth in order to build a structure for producing carbohydrate to fill the grain. Figure 1 clearly illustrates the large N uptake from the beginning of April (approximately GS 30) through the first two weeks of May (flowering) for a well-fertilized crop grown under Virginia climatic conditions. Nitrogen fertilizer management must provide for the crop requirement during this phase in order to have adequate leaf area for producing profitable yields. Also, there is very little chance for leaching loss of N fertilizer applied near the beginning of this growth phase due to the extensive nature of the wheat root system by GS 30, relatively high rates of evapotranspiration, and the large amount of N uptake during this time period. Figure 2. Growth stages of wheat according to the Zadoks and Feekes scales.

Grain Fill

Nitrogen uptake during the grain-fill period (Figure 1, early May through June) is relatively low compared to uptake during the stem elongation phase of growth. Plant tissue N is mobilized and translocated to the grain during this period with only small additions coming from available soil N. Our research has shown no yield increases from N fertilizer applications at or after flowering. Foliar applications (10 to 20 lbs. N/acre) of urea at this growth stage have been shown to increase grain protein but not yield. If such applications are made, they should be made in sufficient volumes of water (20 to 30 gallons/acre) to reduce the potential for foliar burn.

Source:
Alley, M. M., Peter Scharf, D. E. Brann, W. E. Baethgen; and J. L. Hammons. 2009. Nitrogen Management for Winter Wheat: Principles and Recommendations. Publication # 424-026. Virginia Cooperative Extension. Online. http://pubs.ext.vt.edu/424/424-026/424-026.html

Estate Planning & Risk Management Workshop

2012-01-27T03:00:00.000-05:00

An upcoming opportunity for those in the agriculture community to learn about estate planning and risk management in Kent County. Be sure to bring plenty of questions. A certified financial planner and estate planning attorney will lead the workshop.

Estate Planning and Risk Management Workshop

DATE: Tuesday, February 7, 2012

TIME: 9am-11am

PLACE: UD Kent County Cooperative Extension Office (Paradee Center)

69 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE 19901

REGISTRATION: Please call (302) 730-4000 by February 6 to register

or you may e-mail: carolm@udel.edu

This meeting is being held to provide a deeper look into estate planning and risk management workshop for farmers with guest speaker Todd Roselle, Certified Financial Planner™ Practitioner. Topics include identifying the true risks to you, your family, and your business, how often to review your life insurance, taking advantage of estate planning opportunities that have never existed before, and what happens if you have no family in the business to succeed you. These and many more topics will be covered during this session. Light refreshments will be provided.

Phillip Sylvester, Extension Agriculture Agent, UD, Kent County

What to Do With Rutted, Compacted Fields

2012-01-26T06:51:00.000-05:00

It's time to think about what type of tillage, if any, is going to be performed in this spring. Fields with ruts left by harvesting equipment last fall may require additional consideration. If the ruts lead to deep compaction, then ripping the soil is an optional if we have a dry spring. Ripping wet soils accomplishes very little and can make the situation worse. Since we are have a mild winter so far and the ground is not frozen, it's a good time to walk fields and measure compaction. This can be done with a soil probe, tile probe, or a compaction meter (penetrometer). Pereferably, this is done a couple days after the soil has reached field capacity from a rainfall event. Be sure to check turn rows, heavy use areas, and where different soil types exist in the field. Below is a good article on spring tillage management in fields with ruts and compaction.

Many corn and soybean growers have harvested record crops. However, they may be facing compaction issues because of saturated soils at harvest. Combines and grain carts caused deep ruts and severe compaction issues.

So what can farmers do to break up that soil and smooth out rough fields?

Farmers may be facing two types of compacted fields. One type is where there is an isolated compacted area, such as end rows or poorly drained sections of a field. It is suggested to do whatever is necessary to get that area ready for planting and leave the rest of the field alone.

The other type is compaction across the entire field, and whatever is done in terms of tillage operations is applied to 100% of the field.

The following options will aid growers in preparing for spring planting:

• Do nothing about deep compaction, especially if it turns out to be a wet spring. You don't want to make a bad situation worse by performing deep tillage on wet soils because it destroys the soil structure. If a farmer can get a no-till planter or drill across rutted ground reasonably well, it may be better to take a slight yield hit in 2012 and then try to correct the deep compaction problem (if it exists) after harvest.

• Perform light shallow tillage, but only if the soil is dry. If ruts or tracks are more than 2 or 3 inches deep, a light tillage pass can smooth out the soil and create a surface satisfactory for planting. Fill in ruts enough to eliminate standing water.

• Use 2011 as a valuable lesson. Extra tillage in the dry fall of 2010 led to compaction and traffickability problems in 2011. Consider the benefits of continuous no-till, especially with controlled traffic. Strip-till, either fall or spring, may be best for corn planting

Research has shown that compaction affects crop yields. Years of OSU Extension research on Hoytville silty clay loam showed that through compaction, 10% to 15% of the potential crop yield was being left in the field.

To counteract yield losses from compaction, researchers recommend no-till production. Recent research shows that continuous no-till soil resists compaction from heavy loads better than soil that is subsoiled every 3 years, resulting in higher yields. Firm no-till soil resists compaction better than deep-tilled soil. The first trip across loose soil causes about 85% of the total compaction.

Source:
Reeder, Randall and Alan Sundermeier. 2012. What to do with Rutted, Compacted Fields? C.O.R.N. Newsletter 2012-01. The Ohio State University Extension. Online. http://corn.osu.edu/newsletters/2012/2012-01/#1

Lima Bean Variety Trial Results Posted

2012-01-25T07:59:00.000-05:00

Results of the 2011 University of Delaware green baby and Fordhook lima bean variety trials have been posted. Trials include entries from the University of Delaware lima bean breeding program as well as commercial checks that are commonly grown here in Delaware. Results from previous years can be found at the UD Vegetable Program's website by clicking here: http://ag.udel.edu/extension/vegprogram/trialresults.htm To view results from the 2011 trial, click on the picture below.

Results of the 2011 UD Lima Bean Variety Trial.

Delaware Agronomic Crop Budgets

2012-01-24T06:37:00.000-05:00

The Delaware agronomic crop budgets have been recently updated by UD Cooperative Extension. The budgets can be found by visiting the agronomic crop budgets homepage at http://ag.udel.edu/extension/agnr/CropBudgets/ Crops include conventional dryland corn, no-till dryland corn, conventional irrigated corn, conventional no-till corn, sorghum, dryland full season soybeans, irrigated full season soybeans, no-till full season soybeans, barley/double crop soybeans, and wheat/double crop soybeans. The budgets includes estimated costs for items including fertilizer, chemical, field operations, etc... The estimated costs are only for reference and you should use your own costs in the spreadsheet for accuracy. There is also a section to put the best, expected, and worst crop price and yield. While you will not be able to modify the spreadsheet if you open from the website, save a copy to your own computer if you wish to modify. You can also add other line items in if necessary. By completing crop budgets, it gives you an plan ahead of time of what crops will be most profitable. Inputs and commodity prices are always changing so having a spreadsheet budget on your computer will be beneficial.


Example of the Conventional Corn Budget.

Friends of Ag Breakfast-Today

2012-01-20T03:01:00.000-05:00

Friends of Agriculture Breakfast

January 20, 20121 Harrington Fire Hall

7:15 a.m.

Speakers:

Delaware Governor Jack Markell

and

Delaware U.S. Senator Tom Carper

Reserve the right to change speakers due to the potential demands of their schedules.

Registration for each breakfast is $20

Advance Registration is Preferred

Contact Alice Moore at

302-831-2504 or

You may also register online at

http://ag.udel.edu/agfriends/

Delaware Ag Week -Saturday Market Garden Roundtable Session

2012-01-20T03:00:00.006-05:00

This session will be held tomorrow (Saturday, Jan. 21) at the University of Delaware Paradee Center in Dover.

9:00 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
All small-scale vegetable and fruit growers and market gardeners are invited to attend a roundtable discussion session on production and marketing of fruits and vegetables. Fruit and vegetable specialists and extension agents from the University of Delaware and Delaware State University will be on hand to answer questions and lead discussion. Topics will include sustainable production practices, new and alternative crops, managing pests, season extension, finding and growing markets, and opportunities to take advantage of the growing “buy local” movement. Time will also be dedicated to sharing information between growers – what works for you, what doesn’t, tool and machinery adaptations, innovative production techniques, and much more.

12:00 p.m.—1:15 p.m.
Potluck Lunch
All participants are encouraged to bring a dish to share for lunch and to continue informal discussions.

1:15 p.m. ADJOURN

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 3

Delaware Ag Week-Agronomy/Soybean Day

2012-01-19T03:01:00.001-05:00

Agronomy/Soybean Day Program – Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012, Dover Building
Moderator: Mr. Phillip Sylvester, Kent County Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Delaware

9:00 to 9:20 a.m.
Overview of the Delaware Irrigation Management System
Kevin Brinson, Delaware Assistant State Climatologist, University of Delaware

9:20 to 9:35 a.m.
Environmental Stewardship Awards
Mr. Larry Towle, Program Administrator Delaware Nutrient Management Program, Delaware Department of Agriculture

9:35 to 10:15 a.m.
Wheat Nitrogen Management in Fall and Spring
Dr. Bob Kratochvil, University of Maryland

10:15 to 10:45 a.m. Break to visit Exhibitors

10:45 to 11:45 a.m.
“Grain Marketing Strategies for 2012; A Pause that Refreshes”
Jerry Gulke, Gulke Group, Chicago, IL
Sponsors of this presentation are the United States Department of Agriculture Risk Management Agency, the Delaware Department of Agriculture and the University of Delaware

11:45 to noon
D.R.I.P. Program
Secretary Ed Kee, Delaware Department of Agriculture

12:00 to 1:00 pm – Lunch Break and Visit Exhibitors

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 1.75
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Agronomy/Soybean Afternoon Program – Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012

1:00 to 1:40 p.m.
Sulfur Management in Coastal Plain Corn
Dr. Joshua McGrath, Assistant Professor, University of Maryland

1:40 to 2:20 p.m.
No-Till Weed Control in Soybeans and Issues with Palmer Amaranth
Dr. Mark VanGessel, Weed & Crop Management, University of Delaware

2:20 to 2:40 p.m.
Farm Bill Programs
Timothy J Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS

2:40 to 3:00 p.m. Break and Visit Exhibitors

3:00 to 3:20 p.m.
Stink Bug Management in Field Crops: What We Learned in 2011
Ms. Joanne Whalen, Extension IPM Specialist, University of Delaware

3:20 to 4:00 pm
Irrigation Management of Grain Crops and Research Update
James Adkins, Irrigation Engineer, University of Delaware
Dr. Cory Whaley, Sussex County Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Delaware

4:00 pm Adjourn

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 2.25
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Delaware Ag Week -Thursday Evening Session

2012-01-19T03:00:00.004-05:00

DDA, FSA, Farm Credit Young Farmer Loan Program – Evening – Thursday, Jan. 19, 2012

Commodities Building

6:30 p.m.—8:00 p.m.
Financing Your Farm Operation: Sources and Options for Beginning Farmers
Access to capital is key to any successful farming operation. Representatives from USDA, Delaware Department of Agriculture, MidAtlantic Farm Credit, and commercial lenders will be on hand to discuss sources for funding to buy farm land and equipment as well as finance operating costs. Topics will include:

Delaware’s new Young Farmers and Rural Irrigation Programs;
USDA loans for beginning farmers, women, and minorities;
MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s StartRight Program for young, beginning, small, and minority farmers.

Delaware Ag Week-Wednesday Day Sessions

2012-01-18T03:01:00.000-05:00

FVGAD Processing Crops Session – a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, Dover Building
Moderator: Phillip Sylvester, Kent County Extension Agriculture Agent, University of Delaware

9:00 a.m. – 9:15 a.m.
Processing Sweet Corn Trials
Emmalea Ernest, University of Delaware

9:15 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Understanding and Managing Phytophthora Diseases in Processing Vegetables: Pickles and Beans
Dr. Mary Hausbeck, Michigan State University

10:00 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
Potential for Variable Rate Nitrogen in Processing Vegetables, Sulfur Needs of Processing Vegetables, Nitrogen and Sulfur Research in Sweet Corn and Snap Beans
Dr. Mark Reiter, Virginia Tech

10:20 a.m. – 10:35 a.m.
Lima Bean Breeding Material Evaluations and Variety Trials
Emmalea Ernest, Vegetable Crop Associate, University of Delaware

10:35 a.m. – 10:50 a.m.
Weed Control Updates in Lima Beans
Dr. Mark Vangessel, Extension Weed Science Specialist, University of Delaware

10:50 a.m. – 11:05 a.m.
Lima Bean and Pickle Research project Updates
Dr. Gordon Johnson, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Specialist, University of Delaware

11:05 a.m. – 11:20 a.m.
Disease Management Updates in Processing Vegetables
Dr. Kate Everts, University of Maryland/Delaware

11:20 p.m. – 11:35 a.m.
Insect Management Update in Processing Vegetables
Joanne Whalen, University of Delaware

11:35 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.
Nematode Management Update in Processing Vegetables
Bob Mulrooney, Extension Plant Pathologist, University of Delaware

11:50 a.m.
FVGAD Annual Business Meeting

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 2
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 4
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2.5

Direct Marketing Session – Wednesday, Jan. 18

9:00 a.m.—9:05 a.m.
Welcome
David Smith, Marketing Specialist, Delaware Department of Agriculture

9:05 a.m.—9:25 a.m.
The Many Facets of Ag Marketing
David Smith, Marketing Specialist, Delaware Department of Agriculture

9:20 a.m.—9:30 a.m.
Specialty Crop Block Grants Overview
Jo-Ann Walson, Marketing Specialist, Delaware Department of Agriculture

9:30 a.m.—9:50 a.m.
Shore Gourmet & USDA Value-Added Grants
Bruce Weaver, USDA Rural Development
Brad Powers, President & Executive Director, Shore Gourmet

9:50 a.m.—10:20 a.m.
Farm to School
Lisa Falconetti, Marketing Specialist, Delaware Department of Agriculture

10:20 a.m.—10:45 a.m.
Beyond Farm to Table
Dave Bean, President & Founder,
“Slow Food Delmarva”Susan Ryan, Owner, Good Earth Market

10:45 a.m.—11:00 a.m.
Ag Tourism Trails in Delaware
Marie Mayor, President, Delaware Ag-tourism Association & Owner, Lavender Fields

11:00 a.m.—11:30 a.m.
Tailoring Season Extension with Direct Marketing Opportunities
Gordon Johnson, Extension Fruit and Vegetable Specialist, University of Delaware
Rose Ogutu, Horticulture Specialist, Delaware State University

11:30 a.m.—11:55 a.m.
Food Safety & Delaware’s Farmers Markets
Dr. Sue Snider, University of Delaware

11:55 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Evaluation
David Smith, Marketing Specialist, Delaware Department of Agriculture

12:00 p.m. Adjourn

Session Summary:

DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Poultry and Nutrient Managment Program – Morning – Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012

NOTE LOCATION:University of Delaware Elbert N. and Anne V. Carvel Research and Education Center, Georgetown, Del.

Moderator: Mr. Bill Brown, Poultry Extension Agent, University of Delaware

9:30 a.m.
Composting Revisited and Adding Value to Compost and Litter
Bill Brown, University of Delaware, Poultry Agent

10:00 a.m.
What Poultry Producers Need to Know About the Farm Bill
Timothy J Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS and Jayme Arthurs, Program Specialist Natural Resources Conservation Service

10:20 a.m.
CAFO Inspections: What’s Good and What Can Be Improved
Mr. Larry Towle, Program Administrator Delaware Nutrient Management Program, Delaware Department of Agriculture

10:40 a.m. Break

10:55 a.m.
The Future of Poultry Bedding on Delmarva
Tommy Johnson, Eastern Shore Forest Products

11:20 a.m.
Soil Phosphorus: What Goes Up, Must Come Down…But When?
Dr. Frank Coale, Professor, Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland

12:00 p.m. Adjourn

Note: This session is identical to the evening program held at the Delaware State Fairgrounds on Wednesday. Attendees will only receive credits for attending one of the sessions.

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 2.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

DDA, FSA, Farm Credit Young Farmer Loan Program – Morning- Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012
Commodities Building

10:30 a.m.—12:00 p.m.
Financing Your Farm Operation: Sources and Options for Beginning Farmers
Access to capital is key to any successful farming operation. Representatives from USDA, Delaware Department of Agriculture, MidAtlantic Farm Credit, and commercial lenders will be on hand to discuss sources for funding to buy farm land and equipment as well as finance operating costs. Topics will include:

Delaware’s new Young Farmers and Rural Irrigation Programs;
USDA loans for beginning farmers, women, and minorities;
MidAtlantic Farm Credit’s StartRight Program for young, beginning, small, and minority farmers.

FVGAD Special Session – Tillage, Cover Crops & Vegetable Production- p.m. – Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012, Dover Building
Moderator: Emmalea Ernest

All growers are encouraged to attend this special session dedicated to understanding tillage and cover crops in your vegetable rotations. Topics will include how forage radishes have been integrated into vegetable rotations; reduced tillage, strip-till, and no-till successes and challenges; use of vertical tillage tools; and choosing cover crops for vegetable rotations. This session was designed to expand upon the session from 2011 on vegetables and soil health.

1:15 p.m.
Forage Radishes, Biodrilling, and Vegetable Crop Systems
Dr. Ray Weil, University of Maryland

1:45 p.m.
Cropping System Studies with Vegetables
Dr. Mark VanGessel, University of Delaware

2:15 p.m.
Vertical Tillage Tools and Vegetable Crops
Grower and Dealer Panel

2:45 p.m.
Cover Crops for Vegetable Production Systems; No-till production and Strip-Till Production of Vegetable Crops
Dr. Gordon Johnson, UD

3:30 p.m.
Reducing Tillage in Vegetables: Challenges and Opportunities
Panel Discussion with Speakers and Growers

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 3.25
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2.5

Aquaculture – Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012 Opportunities in Aquaculture – Exhibit Hall Board Room

1:00 p.m.—1:05 p.m.
Introductions/Logistics
Dennis McIntosh, Delaware State University

1:05 p.m.—1:20 p.m.
Introduction to Aquaculture-What You Need to Know
Dennis McIntosh, Delaware State University

1:20 p.m.—1:40 p.m.
Aquaponics
Steve Hughes, Cheyney University

1:40 p.m.—2:00 p.m.
Considerations of Cage Culture
Andy Lazur, University of Maryland

2:00 p.m.—2:20 p.m.
And the Feed is Free-The Benefits of Oyster Aquaculture
Don Webster, University of Maryland Extension

2:20 p.m. BREAK

3:00 p.m.—3:20 p.m.
Critical Questions to Ask: Is Aquaculture an Option for My Farm?
John Ewart, Delaware Sea Grant

3:20 p.m.—3:40 p.m.
What Do the Numbers Say?
Matt Parker, Maryland Sea Grant

3:40 p.m.—4:00 p.m.
Value Added Producer Grants
Bruce Weaver, USDA Rural Development

4:00 p.m.—4:30 p.m.
Wrap-up/Evaluation
Dennis McIntosh, Delaware State University

4:30 p.m. ADJOURN

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 0

Delaware Ag Week-Wednesday Evening Sessions

2012-01-18T03:00:00.001-05:00

Poultry & Nutrient Management – Evening – Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012 Dover Building
Moderator: Mr. Bill Brown, Poultry Extension Agent, University of Delaware

6:00 p.m.
Soil Phosphorus: What Goes Up, Must Come Down…But When?
Dr. Frank Coale, Professor, Environmental Science and Technology, University of Maryland

6:40 p.m.
CAFO Inspections: What’s Good and What Can Be Improved
Mr. Larry Towle, Program Administrator Delaware Nutrient Management Program, Delaware Department of Agriculture

7:00 p.m.
The Future of Poultry Bedding on Delmarva
Tommy Johnson, Eastern Shore Forest Products

7:25 p.m. Break

7:40 p.m.
What Poultry Producers Need to Know About the Farm Bill?
Timothy J Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS and
Jayme Arthurs, Program Specialist Natural Resources Conservation Service

8:00 p.m.
Composting Revisited and Adding Value to Compost and Litter
Bill Brown, University of Delaware, Poultry Agent

8:30 p.m. Adjourn

Note: This session is identical to the program held at the Carvel Research and Education Center on Wednesday morning. Attendees will only receive credits for attending one of the sessions.

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 2.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Beef Cattle Producers Session Wednesday Afternoon

6:00 p.m.—6:20 p.m.
Farm Bill Programs for Beef Cattle Producers
Timothy Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS
Jayme Arthurs, Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS

6:20 p.m. BREAK/LITE DINNER

6:30 p.m.—7:15 p.m.
Methods for Extending the Grazing Season During Times of High Feed Costs
Susan Garey, Extension Agent, Animal Science, University of Delaware

7:15 p.m.—7:45 p.m.
Large Animal Manure Compost for Soil Health
Dot Abbott, Renewable Resources Agent, University of Delaware

7:45 p.m.—8:00 p.m.
Delaware Programs for Young Farmers
USDA Farm Service Agency and Delaware Department of Agriculture

8:00 p.m.—8:45 p.m.
TBA

8:45 p.m. QUESTIONS/ADJOURN

Please RSVP to Susan Garey (302) 730-4000 or truehart@udel.edu by January 13th if you plan on attending so we can make the necessary arrangements for food and materials.

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 1
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 1.5

Small Flock – Wednesday, Jan. 18, 2012

6:00-6:05 p.m.
Introduction and Welcome

6:05-6:25 pm
Egg Record-keeping
Lehke Paudel, Delaware State University

6:25-6:55 pm
Animal Welfare Approved
Emily Lancaster, Animal Welfare Approved

6:55-7:10 pm – Break

7:10-7:40 pm
Cocci
Dr. Dan Bautista, University of Delaware, Lasher Laboratory

7:40-8:00 pm
Chickens used as insect control in a pole lima bean plot: Preliminary Results
Ashley Mills, Delaware State University

8:00-8:10 pm - Break

8:10-8:40 p.m.
Pickled eggs and Canned Poultry Meat
Sue Snider, University of Delaware

8:40-9:00 pm
An Egg Cooking Demonstration – How to cook Crepes, Omelets and Fried Egg Sandwiches
Ashley Mills, Delaware State University

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 0

Delaware Ag Week-Tuesday Daytime Sessions

2012-01-17T03:02:00.002-05:00

FVGAD General Session, Tuesday Morning , January 17, 2012, Dover Building
Moderator: Dr. Gordon Johnson, University of Delaware

8:45 a.m.
Opening Remarks
Ed Kee, Delaware Secretary of Agriculture

9:00 a.m.
Produce Food Safety Updates and Certification Session
Updates from the Delaware Department of Agriculture
Updates from the University of Delaware – Dr. Gordon Johnson, UD
Lessons from outbreaks with produce in 2011 – Dr. Sue Snider, UD

9:45 a.m.
Invited Grower Spotlight
Kent Schwartz, Texas grower

10:30 a.m.
Regional and Local Food System Initiatives and Food Security Initiatives and How they Will Affect the Produce Industry
David Marvel Jr., FVGAD;
Dr. Gordon Johnson, UD;
Dr. Sue Snider, UD.

11:00 a.m.
Labor Issues for Produce Growers
Jim Mooney, Regional Coordinator, US Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division

11:30 a.m.
The Farm Bill and How it Will Affect Produce Growers
Representative from United Fresh

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Delmarva Hay & Pasture Conference – Day Sessions – Tues. Jan. 17, 2012
Moderator: Dr. Les Vough, Forage Crop Extension Specialist Emeritus, University of Maryland

9:00 to 9:20 am
Farm Bill Programs Affecting Forage Operations
Presenter: Mr. Timothy J. Garrahan and Mr. Jayme Arthurs,USDA-NRCS

9:20 to 10:40 am
Forages in Your Future
Presenter: Mr. Bob Hendershot, CFGP, CCA; State Grassland
Conservationist, Retired, USDA-NRCS Ohio

10:40 to 11:25 am
From Seed to Feed—The Nitty Gritty on Pasture Mixes
Presenter: Dr. Les Vough, Forage Crop Extension Specialist Emeritus,
University of Maryland

11:25 to 11:55 am
When a Bale Isn’t a Bale—Changing the Pricing Paradigm
Presenter: Dr. Richard W. Taylor, Extension Agronomist, University of
Delaware

12.00 pm
Lunch and Visit Exhibitors

DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 1.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 3

Grain Marketing Strategies Session – Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012, Exhibit Hall Board Room
Moderator: Carl German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist, University of Delaware

9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
What’s New with the Farm Program?
Robin Talley, District Director, Farm Service Agency, Dover, Del.

9:30 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
Rural Energy for America Program
Bruce Weaver, USDA Rural Development Loan Specialist, USDA, Dover, Del.

10:00 a.m – 10:30 a.m.
Crop Insurance Considerations Impacting 2012 Production and Marketing Decisions
Gene Gantz, RMA-USDA

10:30 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.
Economic Situation and Outlook for Grains and Oilseeds
Dick Willey, President, Perdue Agribusiness, Salisbury, Md.

11:45 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Discussion

Noon Lunch

Sponsored by the University of Delaware, RMA-USDA, and the Delaware Department of Agriculture

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2.5

FVGAD Fresh Market Vegetables and Vine Crop Sessions – Tuesday p.m. Jan. 17, 2012, Dover Building
Moderator: Gordon Johnson

1:00 p.m.
FVGAD Activities for Fresh Market Growers
David Marvel Jr., FVGAD

1:10 p.m.
Watermelon Pollenizer Trial.
Emmalea Ernest, University of Delaware

1:25 p.m.
Snap Bean, Potato, and Pumpkin Variety Trials
Dr. Joshua Freeman, Virgina Tech

1:45 p.m.
Watermelon Research Updates: Pollination Survey, Hollow Heart, Growth Regulators, and Bacterial Inoculants.
Dr. Gordon Johnson, University of Delaware

2:10 p.m.
Understanding and Managing Phytophthora Diseases in Fresh Market Vegetables: Vine crops, Peppers, Tomatoes, Beans
Dr. Mary Hausbeck, Michigan State University

2:40 p.m.
Sweet Corn Herbicide Trials
Dr. Mark Vangessel, University of Delaware

2:55 p.m.
High Tunnel Research Update
Dr. Rose Ogutu, Delaware State University

3:10 p.m.
Bumblebee Pollination Research in Watermelons
Jacquelyn Marchese, University of Delaware

3:25 p.m.
Fresh Market Vegetable Disease and Fungicide Updates; Watermelon Fruit Blotch in 2011
Dr. Kate Everts, University of Maryland/University of Delaware

3:50 p.m.
Soil Health and Vegetable Crops Research Updates
Dr. Gordon Johnson, University of Delaware

4:05 p.m.
Insect Management and Insecticide Updates
Joanne Whalen, University of Delaware

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 3
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 4
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0.25
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 3

Delmarva Hay & Pasture Conference – Afternoon Sessions – Tues. Jan. 17, 2012
Moderator: Dr. Les Vough, Forage Crops Extension Specialist Emeritus, University of Maryland

1:00 p.m.—1:15 p.m.
Greetings From the National AFGC Office
Bob Hendershot, Past President, American Forage and Grassland Council

1:15 p.m.—2:30 p.m.
Focus on the Forage
Bob Hendershot, CFGP, CCA; State Grassland Conservationist, Retired, USDA-NRCS, OH

2:30 p.m.—3:15 p.m.
Pasture Design and Layout: Avoiding Common Mistakes
Eddie Franceschi, Equine Resource Conservationist, Montgomery Soil Conservation District

3:15 p.m.—4:00 p.m.
Avoiding Pasture Disasters
Dr. Richard Taylor, Extension Agronomy Specialist, University of Delaware

4:00 p.m. ADJOURN

DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 2
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2.5

Grain Marketing Strategies Session – Exhibit Hall Board Room
Moderator: Carl German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist, University of Delaware

1:15 p.m.—2:15 p.m.
Commodity Markets Today; Perspective of a Veteran Grain Trader
Ben George, Grain and Oil Seed Specialist, ABN-AMRO Clearing Chicago LLC, Member Chicago Board of Trade, CME GROUP, INC. Chicago, IL.

2:15 p.m.—2:45 p.m.
Executive Summary; 2012 Grain Marketing Strategies
Carl German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist, University of Delaware

2:45 p.m.—3:15 p.m.
Grain Conditioning and Handling
Galen Julius, Vice President, Tam Systems, Bridgeville, DE

3:15 p.m.—3:30 p.m.
Discussion

3:30 p.m. ADJOURN

Sponsored by the University of Delaware, RMA-USDA, and the Delaware Department of Agriculture

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 1.5

Delaware Ag Week-Tuesday Evening Sessions

2012-01-17T03:01:00.002-05:00

Forestry Session HAS BEEN CANCELLED

Equine Pasture and Nutrient Management – Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012

Moderator: Dr. Carissa Wickens

6:00 to 6:45 p.m.
Best Management Practices for Horse Operations
Dr. Ann Swinker, Penn State University

6:45 to 7:15 p.m.
Going Green on Your Farm: Tips for Eco-Friendly Horse Keeping
Dr. Carissa Wickens, Assistant Professor, Equine Extension Specialist, University of Delaware

7:15 to 7:30 p.m.
Farm Bill Programs
Mr. Timothy J Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS

7:30 to 7:40 p.m. Break

7:40 to 8:15 pm
Discussion with the Experts about Current Topics in Equine Management

Timothy J Garrahan, Farm Bill Program Specialist, USDA-NRCS

Dr. Ann Swinker, Associate Professor, Extension Horse Specialist,
Penn State University
Dr. Richard Taylor, Agronomist, University of Delaware
Dr. Carissa Wickens, Assistant Professor, Equine Extension Specialist, University of Delaware

8:15 to 8:30 p.m.
Forage Update: What Is and Isn’t Working in Equine Pastures
Dr. Richard Taylor, Agronomist, University of Delaware

8:30 p.m. Adjourn

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 2.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 2

Small Ruminant – Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2012

6:00 p.m. – 6:05 p.m.
Introduction and Welcome

6:05 p.m. – 6:55 p.m.
Considerations for Organic Sheep and Goat Production
Linda Coffey, Technical Specialist, National Center for Applied Technology

Break for Dinner

7:10 p.m. – 7:40 p.m.
Genetic Tools for Managing Internal Parasites in Small Ruminants
Dr. Richard Browning, Ph.D., Research Animal Scientist, Tennessee State University

7:40 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.
Dams and Daughters; Lambing and Kidding Related Diseases
Dr. Wendy Freeman, VMD Longwood Veterinary Center

8:45 p.m.
Questions and Adjourn

Please RSVP to Susan Garey 302-730-4000 or truehart@udel.edu by January 13, 2012 if you plan on attending so we can make the necessary arrangements for food and materials.

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 1.5

Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association of Delaware (FVGAD) Annual Banquet-TONIGHT

2012-01-17T03:00:00.001-05:00

**Pre-Registration Requested**

Tickets are $20. To reserve tickets for the FVGAD Banquet, call
Emmalea Ernest

@ (302) 856-7303

Tuesday, January 17, 2012
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association of Delaware Annual Banquet Harrington Fire Hall, Harrington, Del.

Distinguished Service Award
Family Award
Special Presentation – LEADelaware Trip to Peru

Delaware Ag Week Begins Today

2012-01-16T03:00:00.000-05:00

Delaware Ag Week begins today at the Delaware State Fairgrounds. Here is the schedule for today:

FVGAD Fruit Session, Monday Evening, January 16, 2012, Dover Building

Moderator: Gordon Johnson

6:00 – 6:30 p.m.Understanding and Managing Spotted Wing Drosophila and Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Fruit Crops Dr. Jerry Brust, University of Maryland

6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Summer and Fall Production of Strawberries with Repeat Bloomers (Day Neutrals); Developing New Strawberry Varieties for the Mid-Atlantic and the Strawberry Breeding Program at USDA Beltsville Dr. Kim Lewers, USDA, Beltsville

7:30 – 8:00 p.m. High Tunnel Strawberry Research Michael Newell, University of Maryland

8:00 – 8:30 p.m.Research on Fall Production of Blackberries and Summer Production of Strawberries Dr. Gordon Johnson, University of Delaware

8:30 – 9:00 p.m. Commercial Opportunities and Markets for Select Gourmet Strawberry Varieties Mike Wellik, The Strawberry Store, Middletown, Del.

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 0.5
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 3

Delmarva Hay & Pasture Conference – January 16, 2012

Delmarva Hay & Pasture Conference – Monday Evening Program

Agricultural Commodities and Education (ACE) Building, Delaware State Fairgrounds, Harrington, Del.

Moderator: Richard Taylor, Extension Specialist—Agronomy

6:00 to 7:15 p.m. Maximizing Forage Utilization. Mr. Bob Hendershot, CFGP, CCA; State Grassland Conservationist, Retired,
USDA-NRCS Ohio

7:15 to 8:05 p.m. From Seed to Feed—The Nitty Gritty on Pasture Mixes Dr. Les Vough, Forage Crops Extension Specialist Emeritus, University of Maryland

8:05 to 9:00 p.m. Avoiding Pasture Disasters Dr. Richard W. Taylor, Extension Agronomist, University of Delaware

9:00 pm Adjourn

Session Summary:
DE Pesticide Certification Credits: 1
MD Pesticide Certification Credits: 0
DE Nutrient Management Credits: 1
MD Nutrient Management Credits: TBA
Certified Crop Consultant Credits: 3

Delaware Ag Week Begins on Monday

2012-01-13T06:45:00.000-05:00

Delaware Ag Week will begin Monday night at 6pm with the Delmarva hay and pasture conference and the FVGAD fruit session at the fairgrounds in Harrington, DE. Be sure to visit the De Ag Week website to see times and locations for sessions. Most are held right at the fairgrounds. This is a very good opportunity to receive nutrient management and/or pesticide re-certification credits. CCA credits will be offered at some sessions. The number of credits is listed on the website. Many vendors will be present as well as the antique tractor club. Click on the link below to go to the website. See you there!

Kent County Crop Masters-2012

2012-01-13T06:32:00.000-05:00

The Kent County Crop Master sessions will begin in February 2012. Sessions will be held at the University of Delaware Paradee Center, 69 Transportation Circle, Dover, DE. DE nutrient management, DE pesticide, and CCA credits will be available. Details of each session will be posted in the near future. To register for sessions, call (302)-730-4000 or email phillip@udel.edu.

February 8, 2012 (Wednesday) 6-9pm-2012 Weed, Insect, and Disease Management Update

February 22, 2012 (Wednesday) 6-9pm-Maximizing Irrigated Corn Yields

February 29, 2012 (Wednesday) 6-9pm-Get to Know Your Soils

March 6, 2012 (Tuesday) 9-11am-Tools for Irrigation Managements

Phillip Sylvester, Extension Ag Agent, Kent County, UD.

Soybean Contest Results-PA

2012-01-12T06:52:00.000-05:00

Penn State Extension and the Pennsylvania Soybean Board have recently released the results of the 2011 Pennsylvania Soybean Contest. Several entries in the contest are over 80 bushels per acre. Results also include comparisons of management practices. It is interesting to see some of the populations, planting dates, and planting practices used by entrants.

The results of the 2011 Pennsylvania Soybean Contest have been posted http://cornandsoybeans.psu.edu/soybean/yieldindex.cfm. Entries were down a bit this year due to the unusual weather, but we were still able to document some top yield production in the state. The top yield this year was 86.28 bushels per acre, recorded by the Charles Farms, Inc. from Lancaster County. They were one of four entrants that produced more than 80 bushels per acre this year. This year the contest also recognized top yields from farms in the West Tier and Central Tier regions of the state. The top yield in the West Tier was recorded by Rick Telez from Lawrence County with a yield of 76.39 bushels per acre while in the Central Tier, David McLaughlin topped the contest with a yield of 65.68 bushels per acre.
These top yields reflect the top management of our producers and the genetics available to them. Management practices used by the soybean contest entrants tend to reflect some of the results from agronomic research studies in that top yields can be produced with a range of seeding rates and row spacings and that soybeans are tolerant of delayed planting through the end of May. Soybeans are also an ideal no-till crop and this is reflected by the 83% of the entries that were no-till. Our producers in the contest are also following some of the national trends, moving to more planters (78%) compared to drills (22%). Many producers are opting for the planters with split rows as 56% of the entrants were using rows from 11 to 20 inches. Only 33% of the entrants applied a fungicide, which likely reflects the lower disease pressure this year and the conscious effort many producers make at using and integrated pest management approaches on their soybeans.

Source:
Roth, Greg & Del Voight. PA Soybean Contest Showcases Top Producer. Field Crop News, Vol. 12:01, January 10, 2012. Penn State Extension. Online. http://extension.psu.edu/field-crop-news/archives/2012/january-10

Delmarva Dairy Day-2012

2012-01-11T03:00:00.002-05:00

Delmarva Dairy Day will be held on Thursday, February 16, 2012 at the Hartly Fire Hall. Below is more information on the event:

Delmarva Dairy Day- Thursday, February 16, 2012- Hartly Fire Hall, Hartly, DE

9:30 – 10:30 AM View Exhibits, Talk to Vendors, Coffee and Pastries
10:30 to 11:15 AM Optimal Parlor Techniques- Marco Lopez, Vicor
11:15 to 12:00 PM Protocols for Optimizing Somatic Cell Counts- Jon Garber, University of Pennsylvania
12:00 to 1:00 PM Lunch and Visit With Exhibitors
1:00 – 1:45 PM Best Nutrient Management Practices for the Crop, Cow and Farm-Eric Young, Miner Institute
1:45 to 2:30 PM Maximizing Milk Production Through Forage Quality- Eric Reid, Old Mill Troy

1.0 NM CEU’s awarded for attending the program

RSVP NEEDED FOR LUNCH: Please contact Carol Hrupsa by phone 302-730-4000 or email carolm@udel.edu by February 3, 2012

Herbicide Update

2012-01-10T06:43:00.000-05:00

The Ignite herbicide brand will have its name changed back to Liberty in 2012. Below is the press release from Bayer CropScience:

Bayer CropScience announced that the global brand Liberty® herbicide will replace the Ignite® herbicide brand for use on LibertyLink® crops in the U.S. market starting in the 2012 crop season.
“Globally, the use of the LibertyLink system is experiencing rapid adoption due to growing weed resistance to glyphosate and the excellent germplasm performance, which in turn is increasing the demand for a non-selective herbicide,” said Al Luke, head of broad acre crop marketing for Bayer CropScience. “Bayer is investing to increase the global production of Liberty herbicide and help ensure adequate supplies, especially in the rapidly expanding U.S. market.”
“Liberty herbicide still offers the same benefits and levels of performance as the former Ignite herbicide, including the new 65 ounce seasonal maximum for soybeans,” Luke said. “And Liberty herbicide should be applied according to label directions.

Annie's Project 2012

2012-01-10T06:40:00.000-05:00

Annie's Project will begin on January 25, 2012. The event is going to be held in Sussex County at the UD Research and Education Center in Georgetown, De. There is a fee and registration is required to attend the workshops. For more information, contact Tracy Wootten at (302)-856-7303.

Annie was a woman who grew up in a small town in Northern Illinois. Her goal was to marry
a farmer and she did. Annie spent her lifetime learning how to be an involved business partner
with her farm husband. Together they did great things, but it wasn’t easy. This is Annie’s
Project – to take her experiences and share it with farm women living and working in a complex
business.

Objectives
Annie’s project is designed to empower farmwomen to manage information systems used in
critical decision making processes and to build local networks throughout the state. The target
audience is farmwomen with a passion for business and involvement in the farm operation.

Project Topics cover the five areas of Risk Management – Production, Market, Financial, Legal
Risk, Human Resources.

Annie’s Project
Wednesdays Jan 25 – March 14, 2012 (2 days in computer lab Feb 15 and Feb 22)

Sussex County Extension Office, Carvel Research & Education Center,
16483 County Seat Highway, Georgetown, DE 6:00pm-9:00pm
$75.00 per person: Includes Dinner and All Course Materials

For registration information contact Tracy Wootten at wootten@udel.edu , 302.856.7303 (o),
302-236-0298 (c) or visit the website at www.anniesproject.umd.edu.

Evaluating Disease Resistance in Soybeans

2012-01-09T07:06:00.000-05:00

VIPS (Varietal Information Program for Soybeans) is another resource that growers can use when selecting soybean varieties for next year. While the program is housed in Illinois, it tests many of the same commercial varieties that are grown here in Delaware. It also captures some useful information on disease resistance including SDS (sudden death syndrome) and green stem. The southern part of Illinois (Belleville, Elkville) would be the most comparable to our growing climate. Click on the picture below to go to the website:

Ag Industry Dinner

2012-01-06T03:00:00.002-05:00

There are still plenty of seats open for this event. This is a good opportunity for those in the Delaware agricultural community to socialize and network. Mark your calendars and be sure to RSVP soon.

41th Annual Agricultural Industry Dinner scheduled for January 26, 2012
Tom Vilsack, Secretary of the U.S. Department of Agriculture will speak
The Delaware Council of Farm Organizations invites the public to attend the 41th Annual Agricultural
Industry Dinner that will be held on January 26, 2012 at the Dover Downs Hotel & Conference Center.

Festivities begin with a reception at 5:00 PM with dinner to follow at 6:30 PM. Reservations and
payments must be made by December 30, 2011. For more information, contact Lisa Falconetti at the
Delaware Department of Agriculture: Phone – 302.698.4554 or E-Mail – lisa.falconetti@state.de.us .
During an enjoyable evening full of good food and fellowship, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack will be the featured speaker; and DDA Secretary Ed Kee will present the Secretary’s Award for meritorious serviceto Delaware agriculture. This time honored Delaware tradition provides an opportunity to celebrate Delaware’s hard working farmers, honor the First State’s rich agricultural heritage, and discuss current and potential challenges to the industry. Attendees will also have the chance to thank elected officials for their support and advocacy of agriculture in Delaware in 2011 and the future.

Individual tickets cost $60.00 and a 10 seat table will cost $550.00. Event reservation forms and
information are accessible as follows:
• By e-mail from deagindustrydinner@gmail.com
• By mail from the Delaware Council of Farm Organizations, P.O. Box 986, Dover, DE 19903.
• On-line at www.dda.delaware.gov under Hot Topics.
Event updates regarding attendees, the menu, and photos of Delaware agriculture are available on
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Delaware-Agricultural-Industry-Dinner/170916926254767.

Kenneth Wicks, President, Delaware Council of Farm Organizations said, “I am extremely pleased that USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack will join the Council, the public, agricultural industry attendees, and our public officials as we celebrate Delaware’s $8 billion agricultural industry. We are indeed honored by his acceptance. The reservation deadline is fast approaching so I urge those interested in attending to sign-up as soon as possible.”

Corn Hybrid Performance Tests

2012-01-05T06:40:00.000-05:00

The University of Maryland Extension completes corn hybrid performance tests every year. The closest research stations to Delaware are the Wye Research and Education Center located in nearby Queen Anne's county and the Lower Eastern Shore Research and Education Center-Poplar Hill located in Quantico, MD (near Salisbury,MD). The tests include many brand names and maturities. The link below provides more information and results of the trials.

http://www.mdcrops.umd.edu/Corn/2011AgronomyFactsNo.54Final.pdf

Freeze Injury to Wheat

2012-01-04T05:58:00.001-05:00

While the recent drop in temperature will not affect the wheat crop, freeze injury can be a problem on winter wheat. Spring is the time of the year to be concerned with low temperatures. During the winter, wheat has a strong tolerance to cold temperatures (see graph below). As temperatures warm in the spring and the plant switches over to reproductive growth, it becomes susceptible to cold temperatures. The risk for freeze injury increases when temperatures increase rapidly in late winter, early spring, causing the plant to develop at a rapid pace. With the plant developing quicker than normal, a late spring freeze could cause injury. This is highly dependent on the growth stage of the wheat. To check for freeze injury, split the wheat plant's stem to view the growing point. This can be extremely small, but should be present in the spring (after vernalization). It is located right above the uppermost node, and will appear as a very small version of a wheat head. Normal color is bright white to yellow-green and is turgid. A damaged growing point is off white or brown and water soaked in appearance.

Figure 1. Temperatures that causefreeze injury to winter wheat at different growth stages. Winter wheat rapidly loses hardiness during spring growth and is easily injured by late freezes (graph adapted from A.W. Pauli).

Source:
Shroyer, James P., Merrel E. Mikesell, and Gary M. Paulsen. 1995. Spring Freeze Injury to Kansas Wheat. Kansas State University.

How Phosphorus is Lost from Farmland

2012-01-03T06:34:00.000-05:00

A good article on how phosphorus moves in the soil and how it is lost:

While phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for plant growth, P runoff from the landscape can also lead to degradation of surface waters. Enrichment of streams, lakes, and rivers with P leads to algal growth and subsequent decay, which depletes the water of oxygen necessary for fish and other aquatic organisms. Not only does this process (known as ‘eutrophication’) result in degraded aquatic habitats, it makes surface waters unfit for recreation or as a drinking water source.

Common sources of runoff P are eroded soil and surface applied manure or fertilizer, but it can also originate from fields without these obvious P sources. Soils having high P levels also produce runoff that contains high concentrations of P. These high-P soils are typically the result of field or farm level nutrient imbalances; these imbalances often extend to the regional scale. Phosphorus that is mined in Florida and used as fertilizer in the Midwest is commonly shipped to Eastern farms in the form of livestock feed. Only a fraction of the P in the livestock feed leaves the farm in the form of food, fuel, fiber, or live animals. The majority of the P is distributed on the land in the form of manure, often at rates selected to meet the nitrogen need of the crop but exceeding the P need of the crop. Phosphorus accumulates in the soil until the soil cannot absorb anymore; runoff P concentrations tend to increase as this accumulation occurs.

P Loss Pathways

Phosphorus has two forms in runoff, soluble and particulate. Soluble P comes from the release of P from soil and plant material and is completely dissolved in runoff, while particulate P is attached to eroding sediment or associated with organic material. Erosion always occurs on the soil surface, but the other P-loss pathways can take place both on the surface and through the subsurface.

Surface:

Tilled fields and overgrazed pastures are especially susceptible to the P loss that is associated with erosion. Phosphorus binds very strongly to soil particles, and the erosion of these soil particles can be a significant source of P loss even if the soil P level is low. Particulate P is the dominant form of P in runoff from cultivated lands.

Dissolved P can also be carried in surface runoff from tilled or untilled fields. Although different soils can adsorb different amounts of P, for a given soil the higher the soil P level is in the field, the higher the P concentration is in the runoff. The soil P level is more uniform in tilled soils because of mixing, but is highest in the uppermost soil layer of pastures and hayland. As runoff flows through a field and interacts with surface soils, P is released in a dissolved form. This release results in the dominant P loss pathway from grassland.

Highly-soluble P in manure and fertilizer, and the manure and fertilizer itself, can be readily washed off of the soil surface by runoff from rainfall or snowmelt. Application rate and timing are important factors in how much P is lost through this pathway. A couple runoff events following nutrient applications can represent the bulk of the surface runoff P for the entire year.

Subsurface:

Dissolved P can move from upper soil layers into shallow groundwater with percolating water. This is more common in sandy and gravelly soils, but can be enhanced by large pores (e.g. wormholes) in other soils. Once P is in shallow groundwater beneath a field, it can flow to a bordering stream or ditch. Drainage tile can increase the magnitude of this P loss pathway.

A little-recognized P loss pathway is the movement of manure or fertilizer P from the surface directly into drainage tiles through large soil pores or cracks. This process has been observed and demonstrated in many agricultural soils, but is more likely to occur when applying liquid manure sources.

Management to Limit P Loss

The risk of P-loss from a field can be divided into two categories: 1) source factors and 2) transport factors (Table 1). Source factors are directly related to the amount of P that water interacts with as it passes through a field, and can often be controlled with management efforts. Transport factors are related to the volume of water leaving a field and the likelihood of that water reaching a stream. Various management and conservation practices are also helpful for controlling transport factors.

Phosphorus source control is achieved primarily by managing the rate, timing, and method of P applications to fields. Additionally, the type of P amendment (e.g., inorganic fertilizer vs. poultry litter) should also be considered to account for varying proportions of water-soluble P that can be readily lost to runoff.

The rate of P additions to a field should be based on the agronomic need of the crop being fertilized. When P is applied at rates greater than the agronomic need of the crop, P will accumulate in the soil. As P accumulates in the soil the risk of P loss increases. Annual soil testing allows for informed and economical use of P to meet crop needs.
The timing of P application can have a large influence on the amount of P in runoff. Phosphorus sources should not be applied to frozen or saturated soils. Probability of runoff in many areas of the Mid-Atlantic is greatest in the winter with snowmelt and in the spring with rain on saturated soils. Large rain events in the summer can also produce significant runoff. Weather predictions can be used to select application times when the forecast is for relatively dry weather.

The method of P application can be on the surface, on the surface followed by incorporation, or injected into the subsurface. Injecting or incorporating P sources can reduce P loss if it can be done without increasing the risk of erosion. Injection and incorporation also forces P into deeper soils and reduces P-enrichment of surface soils that interact with runoff.

Phosphorus transport control relies on a number of management and conservation practices that serve to reduce the risk of runoff P from reaching a water body. Even with proper P transport control measures, some fields and soils inherently have a greater risk of P loss. In these fields, source control measures become more important.

Soils that are more likely to produce large amounts of runoff have an increased risk of P loss. Several management practices can be implemented in these fields to help reduce runoff volumes. Cover crops, reduced or no-till, and contour farming all help precipitation to infiltrate and reduce runoff.

Concentrated flow paths (ditches, natural swales, etc.) increase the risk of P loss by greatly reducing the opportunity for runoff to infiltrate into down-slope soils and for sediment-bound P to settle out or be trapped by vegetation. If concentrated flow paths do exist in a field and cannot be avoided, making sure they are well vegetated and are not eroding will help to reduce P loss.

As the distance from a field to a stream becomes shorter, the risk of P loss increases. This risk can be reduced by leaving forest or grass buffers between the field and the stream. These buffers trap sediment-bound P in runoff and help prevent stream bank erosion, another potential source of P loss. In general, the wider the buffer, the more effective it is at trapping P.

Erosion control methods are also very effective at reducing P transport. Avoiding overgrazing, maintaining vegetative cover, and reduced or no-till practices limit the amount of sediment-bound P that can be moved with runoff.

Phosphorus transport through the subsurface is difficult to control. Excessively drained soils increase the risk of transporting P through the subsurface; drainage tile can also enhance this risk in less well-drained soils. If possible, construct wetlands at tile outlets to slow runoff and help reduce P loss through adsorption, sedimentation, and plant uptake.

	Factor	Description
Source Factors	Soil P	As the soil P increases, so does the risk of P loss
	Application rate	Higher application rates increase the chance of P loss
	Application timing	Applying during wet times or before rain increases risk of P loss
	Application method	P injection or incorporation decreases risk of P loss
	Source of applied P	Some P amendments contain more water-soluble P that can be transported with runoff
Transport Factors	Surface runoff	Runoff serves to transport P from agricultural fields
	Concentrated flow paths	Concentration of runoff increases risk of P loss
	Distance to stream	Buffers allow for infiltration or filtering of runoff
	Erosion	Erosion is a significant source of P loss from tilled fields and damaged pastures
	Subsurface flow	Subsurface drainage, preferential flow, and highly permeable soils can enable leaching of P

P-Index

The P Index is a tool that was introduced in the 1990s, and is now a widely used method for evaluating the risk of P loss from agricultural fields. The P Index rates the source and transport factors of a particular field, with the understanding that the risk of P loss is highest when there are interactions between P sources and transport pathways. Conservation practices and management are considered when evaluating risk of P loss. Each state has developed their own version of the P Index based on their local soils, climate, and landscape. Most versions are straight-forward, and are designed to help nutrient management planners and producers evaluate the effects of alternative management practices on P loss.

For More Information:

SERA-17, Organization to Minimize Phosphorus Losses from Agriculture: http://www.sera17.ext.vt.edu/

USDA-ARS, Agricultural Phosphorus and Eutrophication, Second Edition: http://www.ars.usda.gov/is/np/Phos&Eutro2/phos&eutrointro2ed.htm

eXtension and Livestock and Poultry Environmental Learning Center, Animal Manure Management: http://www.extension.org/animal+manure+management

Source:

Faulkner, Joshua. 2011. How Phosphorus is Lost from Farmland. West Virginia University Extension. Mid-Atlantic Regional Agronomist Quarterly Newsletter. December 2011.

Grain Marketing Update

2011-12-30T08:18:00.000-05:00

Current grain marketing information from Carl German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialists, UD:

Soybean Harvest Underway in Brazil

As the calendar year ends the commodity markets are taking a breather. After nearly ten consecutive days of trending higher due to dry weather in the Southern Hemisphere corn, soybean, and nearby wheat futures are trading lower to slightly lower in today’s (12/29/11) trade. Since South American weather hasn’t changed one might wonder why the sell-off? Several factors could be coming into play such as end of the year positioning and profit taking. The recent rally resulted in corn futures moving nearly 50 cents higher and soybean futures moving about $1.00 per bushel higher since mid-December. Other factors such as light activity in the markets due to the holidays and farmer selling, taking advantage of the recent price run-up in commodity prices. Due to the beginning of the South American harvest, soybeans are likely to have the biggest nearby downside price risk. This raises the question as to whether farmers should begin forward pricing a portion of next year’s intended soybean, corn, or SRW wheat production at current price levels or can we assume that additional price strength may come from the corn market with soybeans and wheat influenced accordingly? Although most would like to see a 6 in front of the corn and a 12 in front of the soybean price before pulling any sales triggers, downside price risk must enter into the equation. It is something to think about? Currently, Dec ’12 corn futures are $5.78; Nov ’12 soybeans are $11.95; July ’12 SRW wheat futures are $6.80; and Dec ’12 SRW wheat futures are trading at $7.16 per bushel. Locally, new crop basis bids are currently in the vicinity of 60 under for SRW wheat, 55 under for soybeans, and 20 under for corn.

The weekly export sales report, generally published on Thursday, will be released tomorrow. Outside market forces are mixed, with the Dow supportive in today’s trade. For technical assistance in making grain marketing decisions contact:

Carl L. German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist

Department of Food & Resource Economics
208 Townsend Hall
University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-2130
Phone: 302-831-1317 Cell: 302-690-1878 Fax: 302-831-6243
List Owner: E-Grain Marketing Club grn-mktdg@udel.edu;
Farmer's Grain Marketing Primer www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com; and
Farmer's Grain Marketing Decision Aid www.webixi.com/grainguide.

Approval of Drought-Tolerant Trait

2011-12-30T08:04:00.001-05:00

A drought tolerant trait has recently been approved by the USDA. Here is more information:

USDA Deregulates Monsanto’s First-Generation Drought-Tolerant Trait for Corn

Monsanto received deregulation from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for MON 87460, the company’s first-generation drought-tolerant trait for corn.

Drought-tolerant corn is projected to be introduced as part of an overall system that would offer farmers improved genetics, agronomic practices and the drought trait. Monsanto plans to conduct on-farm trials in 2012 to give farmers experience with the product, while generating data to help inform the company’s commercial decisions.

“Our drought system is designed to help farmers mitigate the risk of yield loss when experiencing drought stress, primarily in areas of annual drought stress,” said Hobart Beeghly, U.S. product management lead. “This spring farmers in the Western Great Plains will have an opportunity to see how the system performs on their farm through on-farm trials.”

For the 2012 trials, Monsanto plans to have Genuity® VT Triple PRO® and Genuity® VT Double PRO® technology serve as the agronomic trait platform to be used with the drought-tolerant trait. These technologies offer growers excellent insect protection and tolerance to Roundup® agricultural herbicides.

The drought-tolerant trait is part of Monsanto's Yield and Stress collaboration in plant biotechnology with Germany-based BASF. The collaboration is aimed at developing higher-yielding crops and crops more tolerant to adverse environmental conditions, such as drought.

"Through this collaboration, BASF is excited to be working on meaningful solutions for growers dealing with drought-stressed environments," said Jonathan Bryant, vice president of business management at BASF Plant Science. "We look forward to future advances from our yield and stress-tolerant pipeline with Monsanto."

The USDA deregulation concludes the U.S. federal regulatory process. Import approvals in key corn import markets with functioning regulatory systems are in progress.

Source:
Monsanto Company Website. December 30, 2011. http://monsanto.mediaroom.com/usda-deregulates-drought-tolerant-corn

Friends of Ag Breakfast

2011-12-29T03:00:00.000-05:00

Upcoming Friends of Ag Event:

Event: Friends of Agriculture Breakfast

Date: January 20, 2012

Location: Harrington Fire Hall

Time: 7:15 a.m.

Speakers:

Delaware Governor Jack Markell and Delaware U.S. Senator Tom Carper

Reserve the right to change speakers due to the potential demands of their schedules.

Registration for each breakfast is $20, Advance Registration is Preferred, Contact Alice Moore at 302-831-2504 or You may also register online at http://ag.udel.edu/agfriends/

Executive Program for Producers

2011-12-28T03:01:00.001-05:00

This grain marketing workshop is back again for 2012. Last's years event was well received by growers in the area. Growers wishing to learn more about grain marketing will find this to be a very useful event. Below is information on the event including how to register:

Announcing: The Executive Program for Producers; Financial Management and Farm Marketing Workshop

Dates: January 25th – 26th, 2012 (The program begins at 9:00 a.m. on both days. A Dinner Banquet is scheduled at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 25th ).

Location: Dover Sheraton Hotel, Dover, Delaware

Back by popular demand, the goal of the workshop is to help producers grow their business by providing them the tools and information necessary to run their operations more profitably and teach them how to be more successful year after year. Too many producers today are focused solely on the production/operations side of their business. In today’s competitive environment, farmers who want to stay in business long term, need to understand the financial and marketing aspects of their businesses. By attending a TEPP workshop, participants will learn to run a farming operation more profitably in order to survive and prosper into the next generation.
What topics will be covered?

TEPP was designed to give a farmer the competitive advantage needed to be successful both in the short term (this crop year) and for the years to come. During the seminar, participants receive training in commodity market analysis, components of a marketing plan and the mechanics of developing a marketing plan. The seminar provides 16 hours of hands-on instruction, including problem solving and case studies. Participants will write a 2012 marketing plan for their business based on their operation’s cost of production and profit requirements.

· The future of agriculture

· Target price analysis

· Key financial ratio's

· Understanding your profit and loss statements

· Determining when is a good time to make an additional investment (land or equipment)?

· Understanding your TRUE costs of production

· How the futures market works

· Understanding futures/options and their roll in risk management

· The use of insurance as a risk management tool

· Fundamental analysis - understanding USDA reports, the impact of China, the threat of South America, etc.

· Technical analysis (what the charts tell us and how should they be used for hedging)

· The big 3 Funds: spec funds, hedge funds and index funds and their roll in price discovery
Who should attend?

Any producer, end user, grain processor or banker who wants to get more familiar with the finance and marketing aspects of their farm business/operation. Past attendees have included: small farmers (100 acres), big farmers (15,000 acres), livestock producers (hog and cattle operations), grain elevator merchants, and bankers.

How much does it cost?
The cost is normally $595 per attendee. However, this workshop is being offered at the reduced rate of $295 per attendee due to partial funding provided by sponsorship. The registration fee includes two lunches, one dinner, and two days of morning/afternoon breaks. Each attendee is responsible for their own lodging. Lodging can be reserved at the Dover Sheraton Hotel by calling 302-678-8500. Be sure to specify that you are attending the TEPP Workshop in order to get the reduced room rate. Be sure to stay the entire 2 days! Even if you live locally, plan to break away from your normal “operations” duties to focus on getting a better handle on your financials and learning the keys to becoming a more successful business person.

What do I need to do to participate in the workshop?

Step one: Get registered (either online, via fax, or regular mail).

Step two: Fill out the profile/application to determine eligibility.

Step three: Start gathering as much financial information on your operation as you can find (preferably Balance Sheet, P&L Statement, and detailed costs of production). You will NOT be sharing this information with other classmates---but you WILL be using it to help get a better handle on the true state of affairs of your business.

For a glimpse of the type of material that will be covered at your TEPP conference, click here: www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com

TO REGISTER for the Dover, DE TEPP Workshop go to: http://www.theexecutiveprogramforproducers.com/

Partial Funding Sponsored by RMA-USDA, the Delaware Department of Agriculture, the University of Maryland, and the University of Delaware.

For further information concerning the two day workshop contact:

Carl L. German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist

Department of Food & Resource Economics
208 Townsend Hall
University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-2130
Phone: 302-831-1317(o) Mobile: 302-690-1878 Fax: 302-831-6243
List Owner: E-Grain Marketing Club grn-mktdg@udel.edu;
Farmer's Grain Marketing Primer www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com; and
Farmer's Grain Marketing Decision Aid www.webixi.com/grainguide.

Executive Program for Producers-Agenda

2011-12-28T03:00:00.002-05:00

Agenda for The Executive Program for Producers: Farm Marketing and Financial Management Workshop. This is a two day workshop where growers can gain the knowledge and skills necessary to develop a grain marketing plan. It is also conveniently located in Dover, making it very accessible for Kent County growers:

The Executive Program for Producers; Farm Marketing and Financial Management Workshop Agenda

Jan 25th, 2012
Dover, DE
____________________________
Wednesday, Jan 25th, 2012
____________________________
9:00 Welcome and Introduction

9:30 Opening Keynote Address Jeff Beal

- 2012 Marketing Outlook Gulke Group
- Land Prices – Bubble or not?

10:15 Break

10:30 Fundamental Analysis of Agronomic Crops

- Supply and demand estimates
- How to use Fundamental analysis
- Brazil/China Influence

12:00 Lunch Provided

1:00 Crop and Weather Insurance as a Risk Management Tool Gene Gantz
- How to fit insurance into your marketing plan RMA-USDA
- New insurance products for 2012

2:00 What I Need from the Market Scott Mickey
- Understanding your cost structure Clemson University
- FLOID

Financial Analysis
- Financial Ratios and Risk Assessment
- Calculating what prices are needed to insure profitability?

3:15 Break

3:30 Introduction of Case Farm Market Simulation

5:30 Dinner Banquet

________________________________
Thursday, Jan 26th, 2012
_______________________________

8:30 Option Strategies for 2012 Jeff Beal Gulke Group

10:00 Break

10:15 The Funds and their influence on the Market Jeff Beal

- Spec Funds Gulke Group
- Index Funds
- Hedge Funds

11:00 Technical Analysis Jeff Beal
- Basic charting philosophy Gulke Group
- Using charts to help manage risk

Lunch Provided – Hosted by TEPP

1:00 Case Farm Exercise – Market Simulation Scott Mickey

- Make actual marketing and sales decision Clemson University
- Random “draw” to determine yields and effectiveness of marketing plan

3:15 Break

3:30 Developing and Monitoring Your Marketing Plan
- Per Bushel Goals
- Revenue Goals

4:00 Putting your Plan on Paper Scott Mickey

- What do you need? Clemson University
- Where are prices headed?
- Which tools use and why.

For a glimpse of the type of material that will be covered at the TEPP workshop, click here: www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com

This workshop is being offered at the reduced rate of $295.00 per attendee due to partial funding provided by sponsorship.

Registration is required. Attendance is limited to the first 30 registrants.

TO REGISTER for the Dover, DE TEPP Workshop go to: http://www.theexecutiveprogramforproducers.com/

Partial Funding Sponsored by RMA-USDA, the Delaware Department of Agriculture, the University of Maryland, and the University of Delaware.

For further information concerning the two day workshop contact:

Carl L. German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist
Department of Food & Resource Economics
208 Townsend Hall
University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-2130
Phone: 302-831-1317 Fax: 302-831-6243
List Owner: E-Grain Marketing Club grn-mktdg@udel.edu;
Farmer's Grain Marketing Primer www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com; and
Farmer's Grain Marketing Decision Aid www.webixi.com/grainguide.

UD Soybean Variety Trials Results

2011-12-27T03:00:00.002-05:00

The 2011 UD soybean variety trial results are now available. Rainfall in August and September helped produce favorable dryland yields. Below is the link to the results for 2011:

http://www.udel.edu/varietytrials/soybeans/

Results from the Kent County dryland trial (click to make larger):

Kent County Group III Soybean Trial Results-UD


Kent County Group IV Soybean Trial Results-UD

Kent County Group IV Soybean Trial Results-UD (Page 2)

Grain Marketing Update

2011-12-26T03:00:00.002-05:00

Current grain marketing information from Carl German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist, UD:

Although welcome news, considering what otherwise might have been, the rally in corn, soybeans, and wheat that occurred this week could turn out to be short lived. In checking around as to why the rally occurred, a couple of factors were mentioned most often. First, dry weather and the need for rain in parts of the Southern Hemisphere. Apparently, based upon today’s trade, more rain is needed. Second, oversold conditions were the second most mentioned reason. A third likely reason would be short covering, whereby short (sell) positions are being offset with buy transactions thus causing commodity prices to inch up. Aside from those primary reasons things appear to be relatively quiet. Traders are reacting to weather developments in the Southern Hemisphere while waiting upon USDA’s January reports. Additionally, outside markets are currently supporting commodity prices. For the week, energy prices were up, the Dow higher, with the U.S. dollar index weaker. A further reason for this rally might be farmers putting old and new crop sales on hold in hopes that January USDA numbers and/or the weather in South America gives the market reason to rally further. The weekly export sales report was bullish for U.S. corn, bullish for soybeans, and neutral for SRW wheat.

USDA Export Sales Report 12/22

Pre-report estimates had weekly corn export sales at 17.7 to 25.6 million bushels. The weekly report showed total export sales of 37.5 million bushels with 28.1 million bushels slated for 2011-12. This is well above the 17.9 million bushels needed this week to stay on pace with USDA'S demand projection of 1.6 billion bushels. Weekly shipments of 51.2 million bushels were well above the 30.8 million bushels needed this week.

Pre-report estimates for weekly export sales of soybeans ranged from 14.7 to 22 million bushels. The weekly report showed total export sales of 26.8 million bushels with 24 million bushels slated for 2011-2012. This is well above the 12.4 million bushels needed this week to stay on pace with USDA's demand projection of 1.3 billion bushels. Shipments of 34.3 million bushels were above the 22.6 million bushels needed this week.

Pre-report estimates for weekly export sales of wheat ranged from 11 to 16.5 million bushels. The weekly report showed total export sales of 13.3 million bushels with all slated for 2011-2012. This is above the 9.6 million bushels needed this week to stay on pace with USDA's demand projection of 925 million bushels. Weekly shipments of 14.7 million bushels were below the 16 million bushels needed this week.

Market Strategy

Commodity markets might be best described as currently being in a state of transition. Supplies for the ‘11/’12 (current) marketing year, while adequate, may come into question if production potential for the new marketing year (‘12/’13) doesn’t live up to expectations in the U.S. and abroad. The U.S. and European economies remain a concern as does projections of reducing demand in China, a large importer of U.S. soybeans. Currently, Mar ’12 corn futures are trading at $6.23; Dec ’12 corn futures at $5.73; Jan ’12 soybeans at $11.63; Nov ’12 at $11.85; Mar ’12 SRW wheat at $6.23; and Jul ’12 SRW wheat at $6.58 per bushel. For technical assistance on making grain marketing decisions contact:

Carl L. German, Extension Crops Marketing Specialist
Department of Food & Resource Economics
208 Townsend Hall
University of Delaware, Newark, DE 19716-2130
Phone: 302-831-1317 Fax: 302-831-6243
List Owner: E-Grain Marketing Club grn-mktdg@udel.edu;
Farmer's Grain Marketing Primer www.GrainMarketingPrimer.com; and
Farmer's Grain Marketing Decision Aid www.webixi.com/grainguide.

Irrigated Corn Management - Reproductive Growth Stages

2011-12-23T03:00:00.002-05:00

Corn development can be split into two distinct growth phases-vegetative and reproductive. While the vegetative stages contribute to 'potential' yield, the reproductive stages can be thought of as the realization of yield. Below is more information on growth stages V15-R6.

At V15, corn has entered its most rapid growth phase and is most sensitive to water stress. The corn is about 10 to 12 days away from silking. Potassium, P, and N demand on the soil is at its maximum. Corn brace roots are forming from the nodes above the soil surface and these roots will serve to scavenge the upper soil layers for water and nutrients and supply support as the ears form and mature. Silks will soon begin rapid growth and grow from the basal kernels first, tips last. This leads into the final vegetative stage, VT, or tassel emergence where the last tassel branch is visible out of the last leaf sheath but silks have not emerged. Hail causing total leaf loss at VT results in total crop failure. Fungicide treatments are usually applied at VT. Earlier fungicide applications run the risk of not protecting the corn for long enough and have been shown to be associated with potential damage to silks (this may be related to surfactant injury).

The final stages are called R or reproductive stages and run from R1, silk emergence, to R6, black layer or physiological maturity. Silking is associated with rapid N and P uptake with as much as 50% of the N taken up after R1. Potash (K) uptake is almost finished. Consistent water availability is essential at this stage and water use per day may be as much as 0.35 inches. R2 is called the blister stage. Ear size is nearly complete at this stage, silks are drying out [only those (ovules) not fertilized will have silks still attached], and a new miniature corn plant has formed in each growing kernel. Milk stage or R3 remains a critical time when any moisture stress will severely impact yield potential. The dough stage (R4) occurs when kernels have accumulated about half their total dry weight. Nutrient uptake is nearly finished and water use is beginning to decline. By R5 (dent stage), most kernels show denting and have dried to near 45% dry matter and the starch layer is visible and proceeding down the kernel. Within about two weeks, the plant reaches physiological maturity (R6) and the blacklayer is visible at the bottom of the kernels and kernels have dried to about 30 to 35% moisture. Dry matter accumulation has stopped at this stage and from now on the plant and ear are only drying down. Irrigation is no longer needed.

Source:
Taylor, Richard. 2011. Understanding Corn Development as It Relates to Management Decisions in Irrigated Corn Production. Mid-Atlantic Regional Agronomist Quarterly Newsletter, December 2011.

Irrigated Corn Management - Vegetative Growth Stages

2011-12-22T03:00:00.002-05:00

Part of growing high yielding irrigated corn is understanding how a corn plant develops. Knowing corn growth stages aids in key management decisions. Below is an article on management decisions through V6 in corn.

Corn plants follow a general pattern of development similar to that seen in many grass species although the time span between one stage and another and the total number of leaves produced before flowering varies among maturity groups, different hybrids, seasons, planting dates, and locations. Timing of development stages in large part is determined by the accumulation of growing degree days (GDD) or heat units that are usually based on maximum/minimum temperatures of 86/50° F. Please refer to the seed company’s literature for the number of GDD required for a specific hybrid to advance from one growth stage to another.

I will divide corn growth/development into two phases, vegetative and reproductive. The vegetative stages begin when the planted corn seed has imbibed enough water to begin metabolic activity (germination) and ends after the tassel emerges from the last leaf (VT stage). The reproductive stages begin with silking which is called the R1 stage and end at physiological maturity or when the black layer has formed, the R6 stage.

When much of the first weed control work was begun on corn, the industry did not use a standard way of expressing the development stage of corn. For this reason, great care should be taken with old herbicides to understand exactly what development defining method was used. In the following discussion, I’ll stick with the leaf-collar or fully-expanded leaf method. For this method, we use an easily visible portion of the corn plant, the leaf collar, to identify stages of corn development during the vegetative phase of growth. A corn leaf consists of three parts, the blade (that which we readily see), the sheath (a portion that wraps around the corn stem), and the collar (a pale greenish white area at the junction of the leaf blade and sheath). The sheath is split forming a V shape right at the collar when looking at the blade top surface (from the ‘front’ of the plant). When the newest leaf collar becomes visible from out of the next lowest leaf’s sheath, then the leaf (blade) attached to that collar is considered fully expanded or a mature leaf.

The first stage called VE involves the germination and emergence of the corn plant. Although primarily temperature (and moisture) dependent, we can impact emergence in a number of ways. In-furrow or ‘pop-up’ fertilizer can either speed up early growth or result in loss of stand depending on factors such as the amount of fertilizer applied in furrow, the soil’s texture with light sandy soils leading to more injury/stand loss, soil moisture level (dry or drying soil increases the risk of fertilizer injury with an in-furrow treatment, and soil compaction issues.

During emergence, a protective sheath called the coleoptile pushes up through the soil surface with the first corn leaves emerging through the coleoptile and therefore protected. At the same time, the initial root system (the radicle and forming the seminal root system) begins growth and supports the plant with water and nutrients up until about the V3 (three leaf collars visible) when the nodal (sometimes called secondary but really the primary functioning root system for the remainder of the plant’s life cycle) root system takes over supplying physical support, nutrients, and water.

Planting depth is important for corn emergence and is related to soil temperature, soil moisture, and tillage system. Generally accepted planting depth is a minimum of 1-inch to prevent problems with nodal root development since planting <1-inch deep causes the first few nodes to be raised very close to the soil surface where hot or dry soil conditions can damage the initial nodal roots as they develop. Planting deeper delays emergence and leads to emergence failures.

The next important stage is V3 or three leaf collars visible and marks a time when the nodal root system takes over as the major source of nutrients, water, and physical support and the seminal root system begins to decline in importance. Root hairs begin to form on the nodal roots increasing their ability to take up nutrients and water. Additionally, all leaves and ear shoots are beginning to be formed at this stage and will be completed by V5. However, the growing point is still below ground if frost occurs. GDD required to reach V3 are about 210 depending on the hybrid. A new leaf emerges after the accumulation of 65 to 80 GDD.

At V6 or six leaf collars visible, corn has reached the cutoff stage for some post-emergence herbicides that now may cause injury to the ear shoot or tassel, tassel and ear formation is proceeding rapidly and in fact most ear shoots are completely formed by V6, five nodes now show nodal root formation, the corn stalk is expanding and will soon cause the oldest leaves to die and disintegrate, and the growing point is now above ground and susceptible to injury. Plants are usually 14 to 24 inches tall and about 420 GDD have accumulated. Sidedressing of nitrogen should be completed between V3 and V6. At this time, corn has taken up <20% of the potassium (K) and N and <10% of the phosphorus (P) that will be absorbed through the root system. By silking, 70% of the K, 60% of the N, and 40% of the P will have been taken up.

Source:
Taylor, Richard. 2011. Understanding Corn Development as It Relates to Management Decisions in Irrigated Corn Production. Mid-Atlantic Regional Agronomist Quarterly Newsletter, December 2011.

NRCS Funding-Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)

2011-12-21T03:00:00.000-05:00

Information on funding available for Delaware producers interested in the CSP program through NRCS.

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Delaware is encouraging all producers interested in the Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) to apply before January 13, 2012. All applications received before this date will be considered for funding in the first ranking period of 2012.

CSP provides technical and financial assistance to producers to address resource concerns on a comprehensive scale by implementing additional conservation activities; and improving, maintaining, and managing existing conservation activities. Participants are paid for conservation performance-- the higher the stewardship level, the higher their payment.

“CSP in Delaware continues to be a very effective program for private landowners working to further their conservation and management goals,” said Russell Morgan, Delaware NRCS State Conservationist. “In the past two years, 34 applicants enrolled in CSP and received financial and technical assistance to implement conservation on nearly 23,000 acres across Delaware.”

Additional conservation activities in Delaware include planting cover crops, plant tissue testing, using deep rooted crops for soil compaction, extending existing filterstrips, and others that benefit water and soil quality, and wildlife habit. Eligible lands include cropland, pastureland, and nonindustrial private forest land.

Though specific payments to landowners will vary on a case-by-case basis, average CSP payments to Delaware landowners in 2010 and 2011 were between $20 and $25 per acre. Landowners working to improve their operation can receive up to $40,000 a year in financial assistance for five years. Historically Underserved (HU) groups, which include limited resource, beginning, and socially disadvantaged farmers, will be ranked in a separate funding pool to increase participation in CSP. All HU participants are guaranteed a minimum contract payment of $1,000 annually. There is no minimum acreage requirement to apply.

CSP is offered in all 50 states, and the Pacific and Caribbean areas through continuous sign-ups. A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help potential applicants determine if CSP is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic information about CSP eligibility requirements, contract obligations, and potential payments. It is available from local NRCS offices and on the Delaware NRCS Web page at www.de.nrcs.usda.gov. As part of the CSP application process, applicants work with NRCS field personnel to determine their conservation performance. Conservation performance will be used to determine eligibility, ranking, and payments.

To apply for CSP, please contact your local USDA Service Center. In Sussex County, call 302-856-3990, ext 3; in Kent County, call 302-741-2600, ext. 3; and in New Castle County, call 302-832-3100, ext. 3. Additional information on all NRCS programs and services is available online at www.de.nrcs.usda.gov.

Cover Crops-Forage Radish

2011-12-20T03:00:00.006-05:00

Using cover crops in the fall and winter have many benefits including: the addition of organic matter, soil and wind erosion control, excess nitrogen scavenging, weed suppression, reduced nitrate leaching, and pest suppression (there are more). One cover crop that can be used in Delaware is the forage radish. The forage radish should be planted no later than September 15, with a goal of labor day to achieve biggest benefit. The forage radish has a white fleshy cylindrical taproot typically extends 12-20" (the thinner taproot can go even deeper), that is capable of penetrating heavy compacted soils. Seeding rates vary depending on method of seeding: 14-16 pounds per acre aerial seeding, 12-14 pounds per acre broadcast, and drilled rates around 8-10 pounds per acre. Higher seeding rates tend to produce smaller plants. The forage radish is a heavy nitrogen feeder. This is particularly evident on dry corners of an irrigated corn field that are darker green than the irrigated areas. It also appears on light, sandy ground with less nitrogen holding capability. They will winter kill once temperatures dip into the low 20's and teens for a couple consecutive nights. The mild fall we have experienced in Kent County has lead to an extended growth period allowing for larger plants. Below are pictures I took this fall of some tillage radishes. Much larger radishes have been reported this fall.

Picture 1. Forage radish broadcast on September 15. Photo by Phillip Sylvester

Picture 2. Hole left where forage radish was growing. Photo by Phillip Sylvester

Picture 3. Forage Radishes growing in Delaware (fall 2011). Photo by Phillip Sylvester

Phillip Sylvester, Extension Agriculture Agent, UD, Kent County.

Control of Volunteer Corn

2011-12-19T06:44:00.003-05:00

Volunteer corn can be a problem in soybeans the following year. Corn plants compete with soybeans for water, light, nutrients, space, and can harbor insects. Volunteer corn may also contain herbicide resistant traits to Glyphosate or Glufosinate. Therefore, spraying roundup on soybeans that are glyphosate tolerant may not control the volunteer corn if it glyphosate tolerant as well. Additional grass herbicides will have to be used in order to achieve control. Below is an article on the subject:

The increasing adoption of glyphosate-resistant corn (e.g. RR, GT) increases the potential for volunteer corn problems in soybean when glyphosate is used for weed control. After all, the resistance trait is inherited and is passed from one generation to the next. If you remember your biology or genetics course, a heterozygous corn hybrid (F1) is made when resistance is inherited from one inbred parent and the other parent is a conventional inbred. When this F1 hybrid is grown in a production field, all the plants are resistant, but the resistant trait is only carried in half of the corn plant’s pollen and in half of the ovules (eggs). The F2 seed that is harvested will be a mix of resistant seed and conventional seed. The ratio should be three resistant seeds for each conventional seed. If any of this corn or ears fall to the ground and becomes volunteer corn, most will be resistant.

The question of whether volunteer corn needs to be controlled depends both on the competition from the corn and the potential for dockage because of corn in the harvested soybeans. Based on previous studies, soybean yield loss from volunteer corn is probably in the neighborhood of 1% yield loss for every 75 to 100 “clumps” of corn per acre. This is a fairly low density. Preventing a 1% yield loss will probably pay for the cost of a grass herbicide to kill the corn.

Of course, a grass herbicide is not needed unless the previous year’s corn hybrid was a RR or GT hybrid. Therefore, a key for success is record keeping and tracking hybrids and fields. If glyphosate-resistant volunteer corn is present in a field, a second question is when to apply the grass herbicide – with the first glyphosate application or with the second application if two are planned. I would be inclined to add the grass herbicide to the first application for the reason that the corn will be easier to kill with lower rates and to remove the corn so it competes less with the soybeans. The risk is that not all of the volunteer corn has emerged. However, the late corn is probably not going to be as damaging to soybean yields as the earlier corn and late corn is also less likely to produce mature seed. I can see arguments on both sides in terms of timing.
Volunteer glyphosate-resistant corn in this year’s RR or GT corn cannot be controlled other than with cultivation. If this year’s corn has LibertyLink (LL) resistance or is a LL stack, Ignite can be used to control or suppress volunteer glyphosate-resistant corn. Ignite may not kill all of the volunteer corn if it is too large, but it should severely stunt it. Similarly, volunteer LL corn can be controlled with glyphosate. However, if last year’s corn was a RR/LL stack, there are no herbicide control options.

Source:
Boerboom, Chris. 2009. Start Scouting for Volunteer Corn. University of Wisconsin Crop Manager Newsletter. Online. http://ipcm.wisc.edu/WCMNews/tabid/53/EntryId/743/Start-Scouting-for-Volunteer-Corn.aspx

Wheat Growth Stages

2011-12-16T06:49:00.000-05:00

The chart below is a good resource when growth staging wheat. It compares the two scales used to growth stage wheat, Feekes and Zadoks. Having a understanding of the two scales is helpful as some publications may refer to the Zadok's scale, see Nitrogen Management for Winter Wheat, while some pesticide labels use the Feekes scale as a method to describe application timings, see Prosaro Label (one of the few fungicides used against Fusarium Head Blight). Winter wheat has a vernalization requirement, which is an exposure to cooler weather for extended period of time. It is also this time period which signifies the change from vegetative growth to reproductive growth. Click on the chart to make larger.

Vernalization

Source:
Herbek, James and Chad Lee. A Comprehensive Guide to Wheat Management in Kentucky. Section 2. Growth and Development. University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension. Online. http://www.uky.edu/Ag/GrainCrops/ID125Section2.html