Grains

Growing Degree Days: Another Tool in the Harvest Toolbox
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Growing Degree Days (GDD) are a valuable tool for estimating crop development and optimal harvest timing. Whether tracking corn maturity or alfalfa harvest, using GDDs alongside other measurements can help improve decision-making and ensure better crop management.
It is Time to Check the Planter

It's April and planting season will be here before we know it. Take some time to check over your planter and conduct some maintenance so you are ready to hit the ground running in May.
USDA Expediting Direct Economic Assistance to Agricultural Producers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is issuing up to $10 billion directly to agricultural producers through the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) for the 2024 crop year. Eligible producers must report 2024 crop year planted and prevented planted acres to FSA on an FSA-578, Report of Acreage form. Contact your local FSA office for more information.
Practical Lessons Learned from Advanced Soil Health Training: Part 3
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

The third and final session of the Advanced Soil Health Training Cohort focused on two critical topics: no-till and planting green. The session provided valuable insights through expert presentations and firsthand experiences shared by farmers through presentations and panel discussions.
Winter and wet weather manure spreading reminders
NYS Department of Environmental Conservation is reminding farmers to be mindful of conditions that are high risk for runoff.
Field Equipment or Road Equipment?

As farms continue to evolve, truly addressing soil management in forage production requires more focus, with the distinction between field equipment and road equipment being an important opportunity.
So You Want To Become A Certified Pesticide Applicator?
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

Have you ever thought about becoming a Certified Pesticide Applicator but felt intimated by the process? This article walks through the steps to become a Certified Private Pesticide Applicator, including the necessary training, requirements, and testing as required by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Win a Grain Rescue Tube and Training for Your Local Fire Department

Win a grain rescue tube and training for your fire department! Nationwide Insurance once again is teaming up with the National Education Center for Agricultural Safety (NECAS), Peosta, Iowa, to award emergency first responders with grain rescue tubes and hands-on rescue training to help save lives.
Proper Stored Grain Maintenance over the Winter: A Key to Pest Management

The combination of low grain prices and above average yields have led many farms to leave the grain in the bin and hope for better prices this spring. Check this article out for tips on how to protect your stored grain.
Fertilizer Calculations
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

This article provides a detailed guide on how to calculate fertilizer applications based on soil test results, including examples of both granular and liquid fertilizers. It covers understanding fertilizer labels, determining nutrient content, and applying the correct amount of fertilizer to meet crop needs for optimal growth.
Practical Lessons Learned from Advanced Soil Health Training: Part 2
Katelyn Miller, Field Crops and Forage Specialist
Southwest New York Dairy, Livestock and Field Crops Program

The article discusses the insights gained from a soil health cohort session on cover crops, focusing on species selection, decision support tools, and root demonstrations. It also highlights how cover crops can improve soil health, enhance pest management, and provide valuable benefits for farm productivity and sustainability.
Does Cropping System Matter for Biologicals?

Biologicals are a hot topic in agriculture. This article highlights the uncertainties we face with their use, especially considering our different cropping systems.
Upcoming Events
Cover Crop & Soil Health Field Day
April 24, 2025
Freeville, NY
Join us for a field day featuring cutting edge cover crop and soil health research and resources.
How Harvest NY Can Support Your Business (For Value-Added Producers, Distributors and Manufacturers)
May 5, 2025
Join us for two targeted online trainings designed to help producers, distributors, manufacturers, and growers tap into the school food market and expand their reach. Whether you're just starting or already selling to schools, the Harvest NY Team will guide you through the necessary steps to grow your presence in the school food market. Each training will be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, but anyone is welcome to attend either session based on interests and business goals!
How Harvest NY Can Support Your Business (For Growers, Producers and Farmers)
May 7, 2025
Join us for two targeted online trainings designed to help producers, distributors, manufacturers, and growers tap into the school food market and expand their reach. Whether you're just starting or already selling to schools, the Harvest NY Team will guide you through the necessary steps to grow your presence in the school food market. Each training will be tailored to the specific needs of the audience, but anyone is welcome to attend either session based on interests and business goals!
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