Producers Blog
Year to Remember?
Tyler Afrank (DSM, Region 4 – Eastern Nebraska)
2012 has definitely been a year to remember, or maybe one most would rather forget. This spring it was suspected that we were in store for a rough, dry year, but I don’t think anyone expected it to be this severe. With the lack of snowfall and spring rain in Northeast Nebraska, area producers were behind the 8-ball from the beginning and things haven’t improved over the last several months. With the lack of moisture, many farmers have altered their cropping practices and are looking at more changes for 2013.
A couple of the more common things seen in this area so far have been a cutback in fungicide applications and an increase in acres cut for silage. Not only did the hot, dry weather crush yield potential, it also reduced the disease pressure we have normally had in the past. This made many feel they couldn’t get the bang for their buck with fungicide, especially on dryland. Livestock feed has also been a hot topic in this area. This has caused some that don’t normally chop or sell silage to look into this option.
As I look ahead to 2013 some changes are to be expected if the ground moisture situation doesn’t turn around. Numerous area operators are already planning some alterations to their program. Some of the more common ideas are as follows:
– Reduced tillage
– Planting rye or other similar crop in dryland corners
– Fewer corn-on-corn acres / More soybeans
– Cut back on planting populations
– Plant more alfalfa to take advantage of hay demand
Most of these notions will of course depend upon rain and snowfall amounts in the following months. Regardless of any adjustments to crop plans for 2013, Producers Hybrids will be ready to continue providing quality products and exceptional service.
