Mild weather the past few months could result in high alfalfa weevil pressure this spring. FMC technical services manager Eric Rebek says the forage pest begins to emerge in April and May, feeding on crops and laying eggs. “It’s kind of a perfect storm with the adults emerging (and) laying eggs, and then maybe even…… Continue Reading
Illinois farmer disappointed in state’s conservation cuts
A north central Illinois farmer says he’s disappointed in the state’s planned cuts to conservation funding. Brian Corkill, who farms in Henry & Stark Counties, says the “Fall Covers for Spring Savings” program, which offers farmers a discount on their crop insurance when they plant fall cover crops, has helped spread the practice of covering…… Continue Reading
Minnesota farmer concerned about trade uncertainties
A Minnesota farmer is worried trade uncertainties will make grain marketing more difficult. Chad Willis grows corn and soybeans near Wilmar. “With the tariffs and everything going on, that kind of throws a wrench into the normal routine.” He tells Brownfield margins are tight. “As many farmers know, a lot of us, (commodity prices) are…… Continue Reading
Cercospora leaf blight taking root in the Midwest
Research from the Crop Protection Network has found that Cercospora leaf blight was the number one soybean yield robbing disease in 2024. BASF’s technical marketing manager Albre Brown says the disease that has traditionally been found in the South has made its way into the Midwest. “However, with warmer environmental conditions that are going to promote disease devlopment,…… Continue Reading
A spring of greener pastures
An extension livestock field specialist says the recent rains are greening up the grass in pastures and hay ground across central Missouri. “We need the continued rainfall and moisture to keep the grass growing.” Gene Schmitz with the University of Missouri says the situation looks much different compared to last year with average to above…… Continue Reading
One ag company sees apprenticeships as a way to help fulfill its workforce needs
An equipment company is taking a different approach to meeting its workforce needs. Mario Kratsch, vice president of the German-American Chamber of Commerce, says more companies are adapting to meet an increased demand from students. “There is a sweet spot in between when people say they’re not ready for college so what kind of career…… Continue Reading
Broiler hatchery data mixed on week, above a year ago
U.S. broiler hatchery numbers were mixed on the week, even as the 2025 pace stays ahead of 2024. The USDA says 249.498 million broiler-type eggs were set into incubators last week, a decrease of 539,000 on the week, but a modest increase on the year. Average hatchability was 78.9%. 191.773 million broiler-type chicks were placed…… Continue Reading
USDA falling short on climate program details
Most climate-smart program grant holders are still waiting for the USDA to provide details on how to resubmit projects under the new Advancing Markets for Producers initiative. Pasa Sustainable Agriculture’s Hannah Smith-Brubaker tells Brownfield, “We haven’t received any information about options.” The USDA rebranded the Climate Smart Commodities in mid-April as the Advancing Markets for Producers…… Continue Reading
Tar spot expected early; measured approach advised
An extension specialist with the University of Missouri says corn farmers should take a measured approach to combatting tar spot. Mandy Bish says the disease continues to spread. “The last two years we have seen tar spot show up earlier in Missouri and in different regions of the state.” She says, “Earlier to me, meaning the…… Continue Reading
March USDA ag price indices mixed
Farmers made less in March than February, while paying slightly more. The USDA’s index of ag prices received was down 3.1% on the month as lower prices for milk, market eggs, oranges, and strawberries canceled out higher moves in calves, turkeys, broilers, and lettuce. The USDA’s dairy index for March 2025 was down 6.7% from…… Continue Reading
