Weekly Ag Update

 By ned birkey

msu EXTENSION EDUCATOR EMERITUS

SPARTAN AG

The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center’s outlook to Oct. 27 calls for likely above normal temperatures and near normal to leaning above normal outlook for precipitation. Eric Snodgrass, of Nutrien Ag, said a strong El Niño will be from November 2026 through March 2027. (There is no such thing as a “super” El Niño.)  Aaron Wilson, of Ohio State, said all the hubbub about a frost/freeze is just “normal” mid-to-late-October weather. The Midwestern Regional Climate has several tools on their ag dashboard that show typical freeze dates. Navigate at: https//mrcc.purdue.edu/CLIMATE/home.

Soil compaction this fall is most obvious with ruts in the field, usually from the combine. However, most farmers never adjust their tractor weights or ballasting to accommodate the load being drafted. Fields with ruts are one sign that compaction may affect root growth and yields next year. Weights and proper ballasting, tires and tire pressure are all important factors to minimize soil compaction. Cover crops, perhaps no-tillage or deep till, all can help with compaction or breaking up a plow pan.

Hunting is a traditional fall activity for farmers and others. Having an up-to-date county plat book is one first step to finding acreage. Monroe County, Mich., has their latest plat book available at Extension, conservation district and farm bureau offices and other locations or call 734-260-3442 to request a copy. A written hunting lease is always recommended so all parties know who, where and when hunting will happen and include other details. A good hunter will keep the landowner informed, have insurance and do their part to identify the property so others know this property has been leased.

Critters and varmints that want to overwinter; the trick is to not allow them in the house. Mice, cockroaches, earwigs, boxelder bugs, spiders, ants, stink bugs and Chinese lady bugs are some pests that are actively looking for a place to overwinter. The two most effective ways to control pests in the house are to remove their reason for invading the structure and to make sure the house is so tight that they can’t get in. Keep food in tight containers and careful sanitation in the kitchen so food is not attractive to pests. Patching holes or gaps and caulking can help keep small critters out.