Progressive Forage

Farmer seminars to focus on benefits, management of Genuity Roundup Ready alfalfa

March 2, 2012

Free educational seminars will be held in three states for farmers interested in learning about production practices and the benefits of growing Genuity Roundup Ready alfalfa. Presentations will include academics and industry spokespersons discussing practices for optimum alfalfa stand establishment and management, dairy rations and weed management recommendations.

Forage silage alternatives sought in wake of drought

March 2, 2012

Kay Ledbetter

Silage worries have producers asking a lot of questions as spring planting nears, according to a Texas AgriLife Extension Service specialist. Dr. Brent Bean, AgriLife Extension agronomist, said he’s been getting a lot of calls from producers, dairymen and others who found themselves lacking good roughage sources last year for their cattle. “Most of the industry relies on corn silage, which did not do well last year during our extreme drought and high temperatures,” Bean said. “The industry is now looking for an alternative crop that uses less water and can tolerate high temperatures.”

FMC Corporation joins Ag Container Recycling Council 20th Anniversary Celebration

March 1, 2012

The Ag Container Recycling Council (ACRC) has announced its 20th Anniversary Celebration and Reception on Wednesday, Feb. 29 in Washington, D.C. FMC personnel will attend the event along with others who support the recycling of agricultural and pesticide containers. The event will begin at 4 p.m. (EST) and will include the following speakers: Congressman Bob Goodlatte; Nancy Fitz, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; and Bill Spencer, Arysta LifeScience North America LLC and chairman of the ACRC Executive Board.

American Forage and Grassland Council will hold first annual national tour in May

February 29, 2012

The American Forage and Grassland Council (AFGC) in conjunction with the Arkansas Forage and Grassland Council will host the 1st Annual National Tour, May 17-18, 2012, in Rogers, Arkansas. The “Re-Inventing Green with Forages – Merging Environment & Economics” tour will feature tour stops at some of the leading forage operations in the region as well as educational presentations, AFGC National Hay Contest and a Cool Season Workshop.

At least two sides to every story

February 27, 2012

Lynn Olsen

If you read any good business management books, one of the things they will tell you is that you need to have a mission statement, something to help you define your purpose and that gives you guidance and direction.

Five tips for starting your spring forage program off right

February 27, 2012

Wayne Tucker

The potential for producers to profit from their crop is currently at a very high level due to the elevated demand for forage, both domestically and in overseas markets.

Status and new developments in seed coatings

February 27, 2012

Bill Talley

In most markets, a seed coating treatment is standard when purchasing alfalfa seed. Coated seed technically refers to a buildup in coating material of 8 to 34 percent on the seed.

Forage Folks: A few of my favorite things from World Ag Expo 2012

February 27, 2012

Lynn Olsen

0112fg_forage_folks_1 Mid-February always brings a trip to California and World Ag Expo. We had 15 members of our team in attendance, and we all managed to stay plenty busy, working in our three booths, making sales and editorial contacts and our Progressive Dairyman team was the sponsor of nine dairy seminars during the week.