The list of notable weather events in 2023 is long and varied — from drought In the forage world, wild swings in winter weather can be a concern for conditions in parts of the Midwest, to extreme flooding in portions of New England, to smoky skies from Canadian wildfires. Stepping back from the seasons' weather, to larger climate trends, 2023 set a new global record for the warmest year, and rainfall patterns continue to become more extreme. While we cannot manage the weather, understanding the increased likelihood of these events, and evaluating the goals of our forage program, provide the best chance to minimize the negative implications for these extreme events.

On March 20^th, 2024, the Endangered Species Act Committee of the Weed Science Society of America (WSSA)'s hosted an informative webinar on how pesticide labels may change to protect endangered species. This article provides a quick summary of action items that were presented. You can also watch the recording on NYSIPM's YouTube channel. 

On February 06, 2024, the U.S. district court in Arizona vacated 2020 registrations of three dicamba containing products (XtendiMax, Engenia and Tavium) for over-the-top (OTT) applications in dicamba-tolerant (Xtend and XtendFlex) soybean. In response to the U.S. district court ruling, the EPA issued an Existing Stock Order on February 14, 2024, that allows limited sale, distribution, and use of these dicamba OTT products that were already in the possession of growers, distributors or in the channels of trade and outside the control of pesticide companies as of February 06, 2024. Learn what this means for you as a soybean grower.

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.

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. 

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.

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? 

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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!