Field Crops
Relevant Events
DEC Pesticide Applicator Review Session
April 12, 2024
Belmont, NY
DEC Pesticide Applicator Examination
April 17, 2024
Belmont, NY
Integrated Pest Management
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
Increasing concerns over environmental sustainability in agriculture have spurred interest in Integrated Pest Management (IPM). This approach combines various techniques to control pests while minimizing environmental impact. Check out this article to learn more about IPM and how it can impact your pest management decisions.
Productive Shop Checklist
The beginning of March has been uncharacteristically warm but we can't forget that there is likely more winter ahead of us. Take the time to check out your farm shop and get it ready for a busy spring and summer season while there's still time.
Introduction to Worker Protection Standard
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
The Worker Protection Standard regulation was originally issued in 1992 to reduce the risk of injury and illness resulting from pesticide exposures. It covers pesticides used in the production of agricultural plants on farms, forests, nurseries, and greenhouses. Determine if you fall under the Worker Protection Standard.
Considerations for N-fixing biologicals in corn production
In recent years, products containing nitrogen (N) fixing bacteria have been marketed for their ability to supply N to a corn crop. Biologicals are generally understood to provide N throughout the growing season as microbes are active but the main question is: How do we determine if a biological (1) improves yield; and/or (2) reduces the need for fertilizer N?
Preparing and Storing Farm Equipment for Winter
Winter in the Northeast is notorious for extreme temperature changes and varying moisture levels. This article summarizes best practices from equipment manufacturers to keep your investments protected from harsh winter conditions.
Custom/Third Party Manure Applicator Registration - Update & Resources
NYSDEC now requires commercial manure applicators that apply manure on CAFO farms to register with the department and complete annual reporting. While applicators need to register by January 18, 2024 to be in compliance, it is recommended towait until after January 1, 2024 to do so. Kirsten Workman with PRO-DAIRY has provided comments about this new requirement and resources for registration.
2023 NY Pesticide Reporting Reminder Notice and Electronic Reporting Requirement
If you currently hold an active certification allowing you to make commercial pesticide applications in calendar year 2023, you are required by law to submit an acceptable annual report of your pesticide applications (or lack thereof) no later than FEBRUARY 1, 2024. To ensure you submit an acceptable report to the DEC, check out this notice sharing reporting changes and common reporting issues.
Fall Lime Application
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
Spring activities become overwhelming quick, so think about making lime applications now. Fall lime applications allow time for lime to react in the soil, and makes for one less task in the spring.
Confined Spaces: Hazards of Manure Gases
While new manure handling systems are more efficient and reduce manual labor, farmers and ranchers must understand the hazards associated with working in and around confined spaces where manure is stored. Keep yourself and employees safe this season by understanding the risk of manure gases!
Selecting Seed Varieties
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program
As we round out corn season, it's time to look back at the passing season and think about seed selection for next year. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help you select seed that fits your operational needs.
Field Nitrogen Balances for Corn Silage
A field nutrient balance is an end-of-season evaluation tool defined as the difference between nutrients accessible for crop uptake (nutrient supply), and nutrients removed with forage harvest (nutrient uptake). Learn how to derive field nitrogen balances for corn silage in order to better manage your nitrogen use.
Corn Ear Rots and Mycotoxins
There are many pathogens that cause ear rots. Identify which ones are associated with mycotoxin contamination!