Equipment

With the potential for wet soils in some areas of the country this spring, compaction may be an issue during planting. Sidewall compaction in wet soils can be a problem, especially if the crop is “mudded-in” and a dry spell occurs after planting....More

Many planters allow seed depth to be adjusted 3-4 in. Actual depth should be checked, however, to ensure penetration of seed openers and accurate seed placement. Row cleaners may be used as an aid for deeper planting, but subsequent rainfall can create soil sealing or erosion. Greater down pressure than normal may aid seed-to-soil contact....More

For Jason Sheehan, cutting input costs was the main impetus for moving to variable-rate fertilizer application and N sidedressing. Reducing the potential for any off-site movement was a close second....More

The Propane Education & Research Council (PERC) announces the release of the Propane Farm Incentive Program, a nationwide research and demonstration initiative in which farmers can receive more than $4,000 toward the purchase of new propane-fueled irrigation engines. Farmers who participate in the program will receive a $400 incentive/liter of engine displacement, up to 10.3 L, or $4,120, toward the purchase of a new propane-fueled irrigation engine. Qualifying equipment must be new, original propane-fueled engines and equipment that have obtained the proper EPA and/or California Air Resources Board Certification....More