Monthly Archives:: October 2017

The Fall Versus Spring Nitrogen Debate

nitrogen management

Nitrogen management is critical for growing healthy corn and farmers are sensitive to their role in helping build a more sustainable world. They are faced with the often-daunting question of whether fertilizer applications can be both profitable and sustainable. Often, the delicate balancing act begins with the decision of whether to apply N in fall or hold off until spring.

BMPs and the 4Rs

Corn producers understand there is no blanket practice. There is, however, a disciplined application approach that has long proven effective.

“When we talk about sustainability in agriculture, specifically as it relates to nutrient management, it really goes back to a foundation of best management practices (BMPs) in conjunction with the Fertilizer Institute’s 4R Program,” says Eric Scherder, field scientist, Ph.D., Dow AgroSciences, from Huxley, Iowa. “We can address some of the challenges we’re facing with nitrogen leaching and surface application runoff more effectively using this approach.”

As most growers are aware, the 4R program is a concept to help them select the right fertilizer source at the right rate, at the right time, with the right placement. While source, rate and placement are important, often the most scrutinized decision — both from an economic and sustainability standpoint — is timing. (more…)

Palmer Amaranth Confirmed in Douglas County

MDA Investigation Leads to New County Find

St. Paul, MN: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture confirmed today a new Palmer amaranth find in Douglas County. The invasive weed has now been detected in four Minnesota counties: Douglas, Lyon, Todd, and Yellow Medicine.

The Douglas County infestation was found through MDA’s investigation into a Palmer amaranth find in Todd County. That investigation is still ongoing as the Department searches for the source of the weed seed.

“It is fortunate that we are finding these infestations early on,” said Geir Friisoe, the MDA’s Director of Plant Protection. “Through early detection, we can develop an effective eradication plan and manage these small, isolated sites before the weed spreads beyond the plantings.”

All of the Minnesota infestations have been found in conservation plantings. None of the weeds have made their way into row crop fields which could be economically harmful. Palmer amaranth can cause substantial yield losses and greatly increase weed management costs in soybeans and corn.

It is illegal to sell any seed in Minnesota that contains Palmer amaranth. Dealers must test seed lots before putting them on the market. Proper seed labeling laws must also be followed.

“To help curb the spread of this weed, landowners should buy seed mixes from reputable seed dealers,” added Friisoe. “You should ask the dealers to see the blending paperwork and lab certification results.”

The MDA is having success in eradicating the 2016 finds in Lyon and Yellow Medicine counties. A small number of weeds were found this year, a major decline when compared to the initial discoveries last fall.

Press release courtesy of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture

CHS New Horizons supports hometown community safety initiative

 

CHS New Horizons supports hometown community safety initiative

Photo (L to R): Terry Johnson, CHS New Horizons Morris Location Manager; Matt Solemsaas, Morris Fire & Rescue

Herman, MN (October 12, 2017) – CHS New Horizons announced today a $2,000 grant to Morris Fire & Rescue in Morris, MN. The funds will support the purchase of a Polaris Ranger, which will be used to assist responders during rescue calls.

“We’re proud to support this project as a way to strengthen the community and see it thrive,” says Terry Johnson, CHS New Horizons Morris Grain Manager. “Projects like this are essential to enriching our rural area and the people who live here.”

The funds contributed by CHS New Horizons were matched dollar for dollar by a CHS Seeds for Stewardship grant, which helps cooperatives grow their impact locally. Together, $2,000 will benefit Morris Fire & Rescue.

“Cooperatives were founded on the principles of education, community involvement and cooperation,” says Johnson. “By combining resources, we are providing double the impact to our area and demonstrating the cooperative spirit.”

Providing products and services in the agronomy, energy, and grain markets with locations in the communities of Chokio, Donnelly, Fergus Falls, Herman, Morris, Underwood, & Wendell, CHS New Horizons is here to supply for your needs. For more on what’s new, visit us at www.chsnewhorizons.com, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.

Support the industry on Global Fertilizer Day

October 13 is Global Fertilizer Day

Friday, October 13, is Global Fertilizer Day, established by the fertilizer industry as a way to help highlight the essential role fertilizers play in global food production. “About half of the world’s food production is attributable to the use of fertilizer, yet our industry commonly faces incorrect public perceptions about its importance,” says Michael Johnson, CHS Agronomy director of marketing.

(more…)

October Is Co-op Month

October is National Cooperative MonthCHS is proud to announce that October is National Cooperative Month. After all, what better time could there be than during harvest to reflect on everything cooperatives do for the farmers and ranchers who own them? As you’re busy bringing in your harvest, consider how rural co-ops, empowered by the combined strength of its owners, ensure the steady supply of affordable inputs that make your crop possible.

(more…)

Farm & Rural Helpline Answers the Call for Mental Health

Free, Confidential Service Now Available in Minnesota

St. Paul, MN – A new Farm & Rural Helpline is now available to Minnesota farmers and rural residents. The service, funded by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA), is free, confidential, and open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The toll free number is (833) 600-2670.

Farmers and rural communities face unique stresses and emotional situations, including financial challenges, unpredictable weather, physically demanding work, and more. As stress, anxiety, depression, financial burdens, and other mental and emotional issues continue to impact the lives of farmers and rural Minnesotans, the MDA recognized the need for ongoing support.

“I farmed for 24 years, so I’m no stranger to the stress and worry that can be part of farming,” said MDA Commissioner Dave Frederickson. “I know that sometimes it helps to talk to someone about problems that can seem insurmountable. There is always help available around the corner.”

As an active farmer during the economic crisis of the 1980s, Commissioner Frederickson experienced first-hand the emotional toll farming can take on individuals and families.

He also knows that resources are available in Minnesota to families navigating the unique challenges facing farmers on a daily basis. The Farm & Rural Helpline can connect callers to financial assistance programs, health and mental health services, legal help, and more. Calls are confidential, but counselors may ask for a first name and phone number in case of a dropped call. Translation services are also available, with translators available in all languages.

The Farm & Rural Helpline is also available to those unsure of what to do about family or friends who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, or a mental health crisis.

Farmers and rural Minnesotans can call the toll free number as often as needed at (833) 600-2670.

Above information shared as a press release from the Minnesota Department of Agriculture on October 5, 2017

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