Farmers should consider conducting their own crop research

Two University of Nebraska Extension educators suggest while growers are spending time in their combines this fall they should give some thought as to how weather conditions in 2012 might impact performance of crop inputs and management practices in 2013.

Gary Zoubek and Keith Glewen, co-coordinators for the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network along with other Extension educators and specialists, are suggesting whether it is irrigated or dryland corn and soybean production, inputs and certain production practices may possibly respond differently in 2013 as the result of unprecedented drought conditions in 2012.

"This could be a real learning opportunity for growers who are in it for long haul," Zoubek said.
Both Zoubek and Glewen noted the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network provides growers the framework and opportunity to conduct relevant research in their own fields, using their own farm machinery.

"Growers often will comment that their soils and weather conditions are unique and results can vary greatly from their farms and fields as compared to private and public research stations located in the Midwest," Glewen said.

With the assistance of Universoty of Nebraska faculty, farm operators can make valid, field-sized and replicated comparisons which can provide growers valuable economic information.

"Whether yield results are measured in a grain cart, weigh wagon or yield monitor, we have documented over a 20-year period, a significant return on investment for conducting on-farm research," Glewen said.

For more information, interested growers should go to the CropWatch website and click on the farm research link.

The Nebraska On-Farm Research Network is sponsored by University of Nebraska Extension in partnership with the Nebraska Corn Growers Association and the Nebraska Corn Board.

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