Weather's Role in Shaping Crop Management - RDA 316

Winter CCA Crops School
Red Dirt Soy

What You Will Learn

The current challenges facing summer crops in Oklahoma due to drought conditions.

The potential implications of an unusually cold winter on crop management and livestock grazing.

Ongoing research initiatives aimed at improving crop management practices, particularly for soybeans.

The significance of precision nutrient management in optimizing crop yields.

The importance of flexibility in farming practices amidst uncertain weather conditions.

Current Crop Challenges

The episode highlights that summer crops in Oklahoma are nearing harvest, but many areas are grappling with significant challenges due to drought. For instance, Stillwater has recorded 56 consecutive days with less than a quarter inch of rain, severely impacting crop yields and quality.

Weather Implications

Dr. Arnall and Dr. Lofton discuss the potential for an unusually cold winter, which could affect crop management decisions, particularly regarding winter wheat planting. This uncertainty forces farmers to weigh their options carefully, considering whether to plant for grazing or wait for spring oats.

Research Initiatives

The podcast emphasizes ongoing research at Oklahoma State University, focusing on soybean growth stages and the effects of shading on yields. This research is crucial for informing farmers about best practices and adapting to changing environmental conditions.

Precision Nutrient Management

Precision nutrient management emerges as a key strategy for optimizing crop yields. By carefully managing soil nutrients, farmers can enhance their crop production, even in challenging conditions.

Flexibility in Farming

The experts stress the importance of flexibility in farming practices. As conditions evolve, farmers must be prepared to consider alternative crops and management strategies to navigate the uncertainties of agricultural production.

When They Said It

(00:00:03) - Introduction to the episode and overview of summer crop progress in Oklahoma.

(00:00:33) - Introduction of the guests, including Brian Arnall and Josh Lofton from Oklahoma State University.

(00:01:01) - Discussion begins on summer crops across the southern Great Plains.

(00:01:26) - Conversation about soybean harvest challenges due to dry conditions and field fires.

(00:02:13) - Updates on the current state of full season and double crop harvesting.

(00:03:11) - Predictions on the completion of summer crop harvesting by Halloween.

(00:03:33) - Discussion on the potential for winter wheat planting and grazing options.

(00:04:20) - Insights on upcoming weather patterns and the possibility of a cold winter.

(00:05:57) - Concerns about forage potential if dry conditions persist through winter.

(00:07:35) - Commentary on the lack of rain and its impact on the region's agriculture.

(00:08:34) - Statistics on consecutive days without significant rainfall in Stillwater and surrounding areas.

(00:09:04) - Observations on localized weather events and their effects on crop conditions.

(00:09:25) - Discussion on the evaporation of rain in the lower atmosphere despite suitable conditions in the upper atmosphere.

(00:10:11) - Exploring options for soil preservation and crop viability if rain occurs before December.

(00:10:33) - Introduction of new wheat varieties that thrive with late sow planting.

(00:11:41) - Insights on planting dates and the performance of Butler's Gold wheat variety.

(00:12:05) - Observations on the current state of pastures and the impact of dry conditions.

(00:13:04) - Discussion on the flexibility of planting wheat and the timing of insurance deadlines.

(00:14:35) - Transition to discussing spring oats as a backup plan for forage.

(00:15:32) - Consideration of historical wheat acreage and market conditions affecting planting decisions.

(00:16:24) - Analysis of the forage potential of wheat and the impact of recent rains.

(00:17:10) - Emphasis on the importance of remaining flexible and exploring alternative farming options.

(00:18:35) - Reassurance that it's not time to panic despite current challenges in farming.

(00:19:00) - Reflection on the previous fall's weather conditions and their effects on grazing potential.

(00:19:12) - Discussion on tough decisions for growers regarding animal management.

(00:19:56) - Overview of positive yields despite challenging summer conditions.

(00:20:39) - Insights on sorghum harvest results and timing of rainfall.

(00:21:10) - Mixed results in corn yields based on planting times.

(00:22:30) - Disappointingly low bean yields but positive outcomes given environmental challenges.

(00:23:39) - Discussion on hay quality and tonnage from this year's crops.

(00:24:04) - Introduction to a soybean research project across Oklahoma.

(00:25:51) - Explanation of digital field days and their benefits for growers.

(00:27:37) - Updates on the growth stages of soybean plants and management practices.

(00:28:30) - Importance of educating youth about soybean production in Oklahoma.

(00:29:29) - Weekly updates on soybean research through 360-degree videos.

(00:29:34) - Josh discusses the soybean project funded by the Oklahoma Soybean Board, highlighting its potential to educate non-farm entities about Oklahoma agriculture.

(00:30:13) - He emphasizes the importance of showcasing meticulous crop management to counter negative perceptions of agriculture.

(00:30:35) - Dave shares his experience of documenting plant growth using a 360 camera, comparing it to watching children grow.

(00:31:19) - He describes a unique 360 video project under different shade levels, illustrating the impact of sunlight on plant growth.

(00:32:10) - Josh mentions the yield differences observed in shaded versus unshaded plants during various growth stages.

(00:32:44) - He explains the unexpected effects of atmospheric conditions on soybean yields, revealing significant yield losses due to shading.

(00:34:55) - Dave transitions the conversation to the upcoming winter crop school, highlighting its new location and the exciting agenda planned.

(00:35:49) - Brian outlines the details of the winter crop school, including CEUs offered and the focus on advanced agricultural discussions.

(00:36:59) - He introduces various sessions, including topics on IPMs, irrigation, and crop management, featuring expert speakers.

(00:38:57) - Brian discusses a session dedicated to corn stunt, detailing its history and current research efforts.

(00:39:36) - He highlights the importance of forages and the work being done on herbicide-treated fertilizers and fescue management.

(00:40:14) - Brian mentions his plans to address water quality issues and its implications for agriculture in the region.

(00:40:48) - Brian introduces a segment on the mechanics of salt and high bicarbonates in soil, featuring Dr. Kenton Martin.

(00:41:19) - Discussion on management strategies for saline soils with insights from Dr. Martin.

(00:41:46) - Brian mentions Josh's recent fact sheet on spring oat management, emphasizing its importance.

(00:42:20) - Dr. Steve Phillips will discuss the distinction between essential and beneficial plant nutrients, highlighting current policy discussions.

(00:43:10) - Brian shares details about the upcoming meeting, including registration and location information.

(00:43:39) - Josh talks about funding opportunities for county educators to attend the meeting.

(00:44:30) - Brian explains the support available for educators, including travel funding and registration waivers.

(00:45:12) - The hosts discuss the value of graduate students presenting their research at the meeting.

(00:46:12) - Josh emphasizes the importance of students interacting with field practitioners to enhance their learning experience.

(00:47:20) - Dave mentions the availability of past presentations and registration for the upcoming conference on the website.

(00:48:18) - The hosts wrap up the episode, teasing the next guest, Dr. Andrew Foot, from animal science.

(00:49:06) - Dave thanks the audience for listening and encourages them to reach out for future discussions.

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