Crops program
In Wisconsin, 7 million acres of field crops, hay and haylage are harvested, at a value of $3.6 billion. Those farm operations are the foundation of Wisconsin’s agriculture industry. Although the overall agriculture industry is growing in Wisconsin, the farm operation component has struggled from declining prices in recent years. Multiple years of depressed commodity prices for both dairy and grain farmers have made it difficult for farms to be profitable. Commodity farmers are not able to control the price for which they sell their products. Sound management of production costs is vital, and this is where farmers have the most control of their profitability.
Outcomes
In response, Extension is providing research-based information to producers and certified crop advisors (CCA) related to crop management decisions. Extension partners with the certifying agency to provide continuing education credits for each session topic. In 2020, decision guides about weed, disease, and insect management were informed and adapted to the season. This led to improved control and strongest economic returns for the producers. Decisions on nutrient types and application methods are adapted based on current market and seasonal conditions. Agronomic practices such as evaluating corn for replant decisions require knowledge to evaluate options.
Focus Areas
Project Leader
Randy Zogbaum
Program Manager
- Department/Unit
- Division of Extension, Agriculture Institute
- School or College
- Divison of Extension