Soil tests seek a non-chemical attraction

Soil tests seek a non-chemical attraction

Researchers hope to hone in on biological soil testing when it comes to inoculating legumes

Manitoba expat Barney Geddes, an assistant professor with the microbiological sciences program at North Dakota State University, likes to tell health care researchers how important the development of nitrogen fertilizer was. In terms of human lives saved, it’s had a greater impact than all innovations produced by medical science put together. “It’s sort of entertaining,”

Kochia has been difficult to control during the prolonged drought of the past several years.

Kochia control waning in North Dakota

Two popular products also widely used in Manitoba seem less effective

A North Dakota State University study showed that some kochia populations in western North Dakota likely have developed resistance to commonly used pre-plant burndown herbicides. For many years, no-till farmers have used Aim (carfentrazone) and Sharpen (saflufenacil) either just before or just after planting to control emerged kochia and other annual weeds. In Manitoba, carfentrazone is the active ingredient in Aim EC,


Body weight, stage of production, environmental factors and forage quality will play key roles in determining the winter feed needs of a cow.

Now is the time to estimate winter hay needs

Getting a handle on waste can reduce losses and save money

Harvested forages are a critical component of winter feeding programs for many cattle herds. “Conducting a hay inventory now will give producers a good idea of possible deficiencies and allow time to develop the best options for the upcoming feeding season,” says Janna Block, North Dakota State University Extension livestock systems specialist. The first step

Sorghum or milo is a potential nitrate accumulator and should be tested prior to haying or grazing.

Test forages for nitrate prior to haying or grazing

High temperatures combined with adequate moisture can impact metabolism and cause nitrate to build up in plants

Although much of the region has received adequate moisture this summer, it is important to remember there is still potential for nitrate toxicity in many forage crops, including small grains, brassicas, millet, sorghum/sudangrass and corn harvested for hay. “Nitrate is a common form of nitrogen found in the soil, which is taken up by plants

A rapid change from dry forage to higher-moisture, lush growth can increase risk of bovine fog fever.

Sudden change in diet may cause bovine fog fever

Caution recommended when changing forage diets in cattle

The summer of 2021 has been very challenging for ranchers and livestock. With severe drought throughout the region, we have experienced the challenges of a reduced amount of forage for grazing and forages harvested for winter feed. “While the recent rains have improved some pasture and late-season grazing conditions, winter feed inventories still remain a


Manure being spread at the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center.

Troublesome weeds spread through manure

Weed seeds pass unharmed through the digestive tracts of animals such as cattle and sheep

Using some kinds of manure as fertilizer can lead to the spread of noxious and troublesome weeds. “It is a known fact that weed seeds pass unharmed through the digestive tracts of ruminant animals (cattle, sheep),” says Mary Keena, livestock environmental management specialist based at North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center. “This means that whatever weed seeds

Rye, seeded as a cover crop into corn.

Rye most often-grown cover crop

A new extension publication addresses questions about rye as a cover crop

Cover crops are becoming increasingly important as a component of sustainable agriculture production. “Properly managed cover crops can reduce soil losses from wind and water erosion, reduce nitrogen losses, utilize excessive soil moisture, promote biodiversity, suppress weeds, improve soil structure and improve trafficability of fields,” says Hans Kandel, North Dakota State University Extension agronomist. In temperate regions of

Starting to plan now can help make the most of pastures in the spring.

Now is the time to plan for 2021 grazing season

Pastures stressed by drought or overgrazing this fall more than likely will experience a delay in grazing readiness in spring

The region has received several seasons of drier-than-average weather. While some locations did get some relief this year, the effect on pastures is lingering. Ranchers here in North Dakota have reported up to 60 per cent reductions in forage production on pasture, range and hay land due to the drought in 2020, according to North


A hay sample being emptied into a bucket.

Forage analysis valuable in developing winter feeding program

Determining the nutrient content of forages and other feeds through laboratory analysis is the best way to design a nutrition program that meets livestock requirements

Laboratory analysis to determine the quality of feedstuffs was developed more than 150 years ago. “Since that time, the ability to accurately analyze forages has greatly improved, as has the ability to use results to improve livestock feed efficiency and performance,” says Janna Block, extension livestock systems specialist at NDSU’s Hettinger Research Extension Center. “However, this valuable management

Weather conditions during field drying, after plants are frozen, impact the colour of the harvested soybeans.

Management tips for frost-damaged soybeans

Soybeans killed at growth stages of full seed development and beginning maturity should be left out in the field to dry before harvest

An early frost has producers wondering what to do with immature frost-damaged soybeans. “Soybeans killed at growth stages of full seed development (R6) and beginning maturity (R7) should be left out in the field to dry and harvested along with mature soybeans (R8) when the beans are at the desired moisture content,” advises Ken Hellevang,