News & Podcasts

Public sources, reviewed and organized. Editorial interviews live separately.

All Podcasts USDA Extension News Weather

Source typePodcast or source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Apr 9, 2024✓ transcribed

Why Are Arkansas Rice Seed Supplies Running Low This Season?

Could this be the most challenging year for rice seed availability in Arkansas? The podcast dives into the current state of rice seed supplies, revealing that many growers are struggling to find the necessary...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Arkansas rice seed availability is critically low due to high demand and production issues.
▸Current estimates suggest rice acreage could reach 1.4 to 1.6 million, but seed shortages complicate this.
▸Experts stress the importance of timely flooding and effective weed control strategies to mitigate risks.
▸Several rice varieties are sold out, impacting growers' ability to plant as planned.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding the current seed supply challenges is crucial for planning this planting season. With many rice varieties sold out, farmers may need to adjust their planting strategies or consider alternative crops. Effective weed management will be more important than ever, as delays in flooding could lead to increased weed pressure and higher costs. Staying informed about seed availability and market dynamics can help landowners make better decisions in a challenging agricultural landscape.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Apr 1, 2024✓ transcribed

How to Tackle Glyphosate-Resistant Ryegrass This Spring

As farmers gear up for planting, the challenge of managing glyphosate-resistant ryegrass is becoming increasingly urgent. Experts discuss effective strategies for burndown applications, emphasizing the importance of using paraquat and PS2 inhibitors over traditional...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Glyphosate-resistant ryegrass is prevalent and requires careful management.
▸Paraquat is recommended for larger ryegrass plants due to its quicker action.
▸Plant-back intervals after using select herbicides can delay planting.
▸Mixing herbicides requires caution to avoid reduced efficacy.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding the dynamics of glyphosate-resistant ryegrass is critical for effective weed management this planting season. The shift towards using paraquat and other herbicides can impact planting schedules and crop yields. Staying informed about herbicide effectiveness and resistance patterns will help ensure successful crop production and protect investments in farmland. Adapting weed management strategies now can mitigate future challenges with resistant weed populations.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Sep 20, 2023✓ transcribed

What’s Driving the Rise of Italian Ryegrass Resistance?

Could the emergence of Italian ryegrass resistance be shifting the landscape of weed management in the Southeast? The podcast dives into the growing challenges posed by Italian ryegrass, particularly in Arkansas, Mississippi, and North...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Italian ryegrass is developing resistance to multiple herbicide classes, including paraquat and glyphosate.
▸Resistance issues are particularly severe in the Southern Piedmont of North Carolina and parts of Mississippi.
▸Experts recommend using residual herbicides in the fall to manage ryegrass effectively.
▸Emergence patterns of ryegrass are shifting, with more plants emerging in spring rather than fall.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, the rising resistance of Italian ryegrass presents significant challenges for weed management. Understanding the dynamics of herbicide resistance can help inform better management practices and timing for herbicide applications. The discussion on cover crops offers potential strategies to mitigate ryegrass emergence and improve soil health. As resistance spreads, adapting to these changes will be crucial for maintaining crop yields and profitability in the region.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Sep 15, 2023✓ transcribed

How Cover Crops Can Transform Your Soil Health and Weed Control

What if the secret to better soil health and weed management lies in the cover crops you choose? In this episode, experts discuss the importance of selecting the right cover crop species based on...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Cover crops should be selected based on the specific goals of the cash crop, such as weed suppression or soil health.
▸A mix of legumes and cereals can optimize benefits, with a recommended ratio of 60% legume to 40% cereal before corn.
▸Understanding nutrient tie-up from cover crops like cereal rye is crucial for preventing yield loss in subsequent crops.
▸Local NRCS offices can provide guidance on cover crop programs and their specific requirements.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding cover crops can lead to improved soil health and better weed management, ultimately enhancing crop yields. Selecting the right species and managing them effectively can help mitigate risks associated with crop failures and pest pressures. Additionally, being aware of conservation program requirements can provide financial incentives for implementing cover crops, making them a valuable tool in sustainable farming practices.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Sep 1, 2023✓ transcribed

What Harvest Aids Are Key for This Rice Season?

As rice harvest approaches, understanding the role of harvest aids becomes essential for maximizing yield and minimizing risk. The discussion highlights the importance of using sodium chlorate, or salt, to manage grain moisture levels...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Sodium chlorate is a key harvest aid for rice.
▸Pure line varieties should be below 25% moisture for salting.
▸Hybrids require moisture below 23% for effective salting.
▸Timing of salt application is critical to prevent grain loss.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland operators, understanding the use of harvest aids like sodium chlorate can significantly impact yield and profitability. Proper timing and moisture management can prevent losses due to shattering and improve milling quality. As harvest season approaches, these strategies become crucial for ensuring a successful rice harvest. Staying informed about best practices can help landowners and operators make better decisions in the field.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 31, 2023✓ transcribed

What Late-Season Pests Are Farmers Facing in Arkansas?

As the growing season winds down, farmers are grappling with late-season pest pressures that could impact their yields. Stink bugs are particularly concerning in rice, with recommendations shifting towards earlier applications of products like...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Stink bugs are a significant concern in late-season rice, requiring earlier treatment with Indigo or Tenshu.
▸Cotton farmers need to monitor for spider mites to avoid premature defoliation of open bowls.
▸Loopers and stink bugs are emerging issues in soybeans, with localized infestations reported.
▸Weather changes may help control pest populations, but vigilance is necessary as conditions evolve.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland operators, understanding late-season pest pressures is crucial for protecting yields. Timely pest management can make a significant difference in crop quality and profitability. As conditions change, staying informed about pest dynamics will help farmers make better decisions regarding treatments and crop management strategies.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 24, 2023✓ transcribed

What’s Causing High Stink Bug Numbers in Arkansas Rice?

Could rising stink bug populations in Arkansas rice fields signal trouble for farmers? Recent reports indicate that many fields are experiencing treatable levels of stink bugs, particularly in late-planted rice with uneven emergence. Farmers...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸High stink bug numbers are treatable but require early intervention in rice.
▸Cotton spider mite populations are rebounding, necessitating careful monitoring.
▸Soybean loopers are increasing, with specific insecticides recommended for control.
▸Farmers may need to apply multiple treatments for effective pest management this season.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta farmland owners and operators, understanding pest pressures like stink bugs and loopers is crucial for protecting yields as the season ends. Timely interventions can prevent significant losses, especially in crops like rice and cotton. As pest populations fluctuate, staying informed about effective treatment options will be key to maintaining crop health and profitability. Farmers should prepare for potential multiple applications to manage these pests effectively.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 18, 2023✓ transcribed

What Late-Season Pests Are Emerging in Arkansas Cotton and Rice?

As the growing season winds down, late-season pests are becoming a significant concern for Arkansas farmers. The episode highlights the rise of rice stink bugs in green rice and the potential yield impact from...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Rice stink bugs are increasing in green rice, requiring vigilance from farmers.
▸Bill bugs may not significantly impact yield despite visible damage.
▸Cotton pests like plant bugs and stink bugs need management as harvest nears.
▸Insecticide effectiveness varies, with some products underperforming against loopers.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding pest pressures like stink bugs and bill bugs is vital for protecting yields in cotton and rice. As harvest approaches, timely pest management can prevent significant losses. Farmers should stay informed about pest populations and the effectiveness of control measures to make informed decisions. This knowledge can help optimize crop management strategies and ensure better financial outcomes during the critical late-season period.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 15, 2023✓ transcribed

What Early Harvest Aid Timing Could Mean for Soybean Yields?

Could the timing of your harvest aid applications make or break your soybean yields? This episode dives into the critical importance of applying harvest aids at the right time, particularly focusing on the R7...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Harvest aids should be applied at R7 for optimal yield.
▸Early applications can lead to significant yield loss and quality issues.
▸Farmers should monitor weather closely when planning applications.
▸Treat only what can be harvested in 2-3 days to avoid quality loss.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding the timing of harvest aid applications is crucial to maximizing soybean yields. With this year's crop maturing faster than usual, careful management can prevent costly mistakes. Farmers should be aware of the risks associated with early applications and the importance of monitoring weather conditions. Effective use of harvest aids can help ensure a successful harvest and maintain crop quality, which is vital for profitability.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 11, 2023✓ transcribed

What Stink Bug Pressure Means for Arkansas Rice and Soybeans?

As stink bug populations surge in Arkansas, farmers are left wondering how to manage this growing threat. Recent discussions highlight the emergence of nymphs in rice fields, with recommendations for insecticide applications based on...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Stink bug nymphs are now present in rice fields, requiring careful management.
▸Insecticide application thresholds are critical; farmers should monitor levels closely.
▸Cotton crops are nearing the end of effective bloom dates, impacting pest management.
▸Soybean fields are seeing a mix of green and brown stink bugs, influencing treatment choices.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding the dynamics of pest populations like stink bugs is essential for effective crop management. As these pests increase, timely insecticide applications can protect yields in rice and soybeans. Farmers should stay vigilant and adjust their strategies based on pest thresholds to minimize losses. The insights from this discussion can help inform decisions that impact both crop health and profitability in the region.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Aug 4, 2023✓ transcribed

Why Are Stink Bugs Spotty This Season in Arkansas Crops?

What if the pest pressure you expect isn’t as bad as you think? This episode dives into the current state of stink bugs, plant bugs, and bollworms affecting Arkansas crops. Farmers have reported spotty...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Stink bug populations are inconsistent, with some areas experiencing high pressure while others see few pests.
▸Rice nearing 60% straw coloration shows reduced risk from stink bugs, but monitoring remains essential.
▸Cotton crops are transitioning towards termination, with plant bug control becoming more critical as the season ends.
▸Bollworm damage is significant in non-BT cotton, while BT varieties show effective control against larger worms.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding pest dynamics is crucial for effective crop management. Spotty pest populations can lead to over- or under-treatment, impacting yields and costs. Staying informed about pest thresholds and scouting practices can help optimize pest control strategies. As weather patterns change, being proactive in monitoring can safeguard crop health and profitability.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source

►

Podcast · Arkansas Row Crops · Jul 24, 2023✓ transcribed

What Late-Season Herbicide Options Exist for Arkansas Rice?

What if your late-season weed control options are more limited than you think? In this episode, experts discuss the challenges of late-season herbicide applications for rice in Arkansas, particularly focusing on the impact of...

Key points pulled from the episode

▸Late-season herbicide options are limited due to advanced growth stages.
▸Timeliness of applications has been crucial for effective weed control this year.
▸Medium grain rice acreage may increase, impacting herbicide strategies.
▸Economic considerations are vital when deciding on late applications.

Why it matters for agriculture → For Delta landowners and operators, understanding the limitations of late-season herbicide applications is crucial for managing rice crops effectively. With the potential for increased medium grain acreage, strategic planning for weed control can help maximize yields and minimize costs. Timely applications can significantly impact weed management outcomes, making it essential to stay informed about the latest recommendations and options available. This knowledge can ultimately lead to better economic decisions and improved crop health in the Delta region.

► Listen to episode Read the brief ↗ Source