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Midwest news and notes Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Synchronization can save time, labor
Synchronizing the breeding season in beef herds allows producers the opportunity to use artificial insemination with reduced labor, says Daryl Strohbehn, Iowa Beef Center Extension beef specialist.
The Iowa Beef Center has a new and improved software program to help producers make choices in estrus synchronization.
The "Synch06'' edition of the Estrus Synchronization Planner is available to producers and has new features.
Some additional weakness in market
If the 2007 soybean crop lives up to its potential, some additional weakness in soybean prices can be expected, says Darrel Good, University of Illinois Extension marketing specialist.
November 2007 futures may have risk down to near the $7.20 area, he said.
"Smaller-than-projected March inventories of U.S. soybeans and smaller-than-expected soybean planting intentions were judged to be supportive of soybean prices, with some calling the news 'widely bullish,'' said Good. "Since the release of the reports, however, soybean prices have declined 35 cents to 40 cents.''
The USDA now projects 2006-07 marketing-year soybean exports at 1.08 billion bushels, 20 million less than forecast in March and 65 million bushels less than forecasted in December.
Servicing the planterpays big dividends
Timely planter servicing and adjustment can help prevent many stand uniformity problems.
Ohio State University offers these tips:
Keep planting speed within the range specified in the planter's manual. Check planters with finger pickups for wear on the back plate and brush. Check for wear on double-disc openers and seed tubes. Make sure the sprocket settings on the planter transmission are correct.
Check for worn chains, stiff chain links, and improper tire pressure. Make sure seed drop tubes are clean and clear of any obstructions. Make sure coulters and disc openings are aligned. Match the air pressure to the weight of the seed. Make planter adjustments and follow lubricant recommendations when using seed-applied insecticides.
Two corn planting windows exist
There are two corn planting windows in Minnesota, says Extension corn specialist Dale Hicks.
The first is between April 15 and May 5. Then, there is a higher probability of rainfall that stops field work. The second window for planting begins about May 15.
Livestock farmers can share information
Identifying good locations for new livestock facilities, communicating with neighbors and planting trees and shrubs to reduce odor are important steps.
"The public is concerned about the proximity of livestock farms and their potential impact on water and air quality and property values,'' said Colin Johnson, program specialist for the Iowa Pork Industry Center. "Farmers are concerned about these same things, too. Therefore, a lot can be gained when farmers and neighbors share information.'' |
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