Soybean growers in several states are puzzled by soybean cupping that has recently come to light. There are three probable causes, according to Paul Johnson, extension weed science coordinator at South Dakota State University, including the cupping that is familiar to producers who have had injury from off-target dicamba.
FSA Program Update
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) helps America’s farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners invest in, improve and expand their agricultural operations. FSA programs also assist producers in recovering from the impacts of natural disasters and market fluctuations. The Agency’s roots trace back to the Great Depression when the Farm Security Administration was established. Although the name and mission have changed over the years, FSA remains committed to America’s farmers and ranchers.
Soil Cover Helps Conserve Moisture in NE SD
A dry spring brought a timely end to planting for Jamie and Brian Johnson at Frankfort, South Dakota. They planted with what Jamie says were “no hiccups,” but soil moisture is in short supply. An inch of rain at their place in late June failed to provide consistent coverage.
Biologicals, Soil Health and Crop Productivity
If you have ever used biologicals on your farm and fields—or even thought about testing them out on a strip trial—you’re probably not alone. Agricultural biologicals have emerged in the past 10 to 15 years as an increasingly popular aid to promote nutrient uptake during a crop’s early growth stages, activate its natural defenses against pest pressure and support yield objectives.
Use the SD Spray Tool for Inversion Detection and Weather for Pesticide Application
May is a busy month as fieldwork progresses and pesticide applications are a critical component for the management of most farm operations. Weeds, insects, and diseases are all best treated early in their development before there is significant damage or yield loss.
Serving South Dakota’s Producers as the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources
On April 19, 2021, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officially began serving South Dakota as the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). Our mission is to protect and preserve South Dakota’s agriculture, environment, and natural resources through effective regulatory services, natural resource conservation, and financial and technical assistance. I look forward to working with you to support producers and protect our natural resources.
What’s Behind Those Strong Soybean Prices?
Soybean markets have rebounded tremendously over the first half of 2021 after an extended period that was hampered by any number of factors, from international trade conflicts to African swine fever in China to economic disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Was That the High?”
The question posed in the title is one that market participants utter each year around this time. The answer to that question is usually only known several weeks or even months later when more of the marketing year has unfolded and crop size is determined. As of this writing, December corn had set at least a short-term top at $6.38 per bushel on May 7 while November soybeans put in a high of $14.61 on May 12. Seasonal tendencies can be helpful when used as a guide during times of heightened volatility like 2021 has shown itself to be.
Letter from Your Soybean Checkoff
Our name, South Dakota Soybean Research and Promotion Council (SDSRPC), encompasses what we strive to accomplish as soybean checkoff board members. Each of us is committed to helping your family be profitable growing soybeans.
Soybean Farmers Assist with Diagnosing Condition of Rural Bridges
South Dakota farmers rely upon a system of rural bridges to effectively deliver their soybeans or other commodities to the local elevator or processing facility – often serving as the first step in a journey to a customer halfway around the world. A well-maintained rural bridge inventory is therefore essential to farmer profitability.
