Annual participants note the program provides the best opportunity to learn from nationally-recognized experts. Farmers like the fact that the agenda focuses on issues important to profitability. 

Farmers also enjoy the chance to interact with Extension specialists and other professionals while visiting with 20 commercial supporters.

The Jan. 9, 2012 West Ohio Agronomy Day is scheduled once again at St. Michael’s Hall in Ft. Loramie, Ohio. Daytime and evening programs give farmers, agricultural businesses and speakers the platform to interchange ideas that boost immediate and future profits, while addressing present and long-term environmental concerns. At the same time, farmers who need private pesticide recertification credits, and Certified Crop Advisers wanting CCA credits can meet those needs.

The upcoming event brings in talent from both Indiana and Ohio to share research and practical experiences during the daytime and evening programs. The final agenda continues to be developed, but headline speakers and topics are already locked in.

Anyone who utilizes crop protection products has experienced less than satisfactory control a time or two, whether the target was weeds, insects or diseases. Dr. Fred Whitford, coordinator for Purdue Extension’s Pesticide Program, has researched the importance of water sources used for pesticide application. In fact, he summarizes the information in the publication, “The impact of water quality on pesticide performance.” Whitford will entertain the West Ohio Agronomy Day audience while giving farmers and dealers tips on managing water sources to enhance pesticide effectiveness.

Dr. Scott Shearer is Ohio State University’s Chair of Food Agricultural and Biological Engineering; his research career has focused on precision agriculture technologies. He plans to speak to the Jan. 9 group on present capabilities of farm machinery as well as what to expect in the future. Will guidance systems increase equipment productivity while decreasing reliance on larger and larger tractors, combines, tillage tools, etc? Dr. Shearer’s world insight could provide a few eye-openers to those in attendance.

OSU Extension Entomologist Dr. Andy Michel will address insect pest concerns at West Ohio Agronomy Day. He plans to target, “The 3R’s – Refuge, Rootworms and Resistance: Managing insect threats to Corn and Soybean.” As cropping patterns change, insects adapt to challenge even the latest in crop genetics and treatment strategies.  

At least six additional speakers will be on hand to investigate soil health, aerial application challenges, weed management programs, crop diseases, soil fertility and water quality concerns. All those attending will be fed well (Hey ... this is a farmer meeting!) and receive at least one free Ohio State and one free Purdue Extension publication.  

Those who come to the day session by 8:30 a.m., or to the evening session by 5:30 p.m., can take advantage of 30- minute grain marketing presentations.
 

Farmers who are interested in a top quality crop production program, but do not need pesticide recertification can save $5 by registering by Jan. 5. 

Anyone registering after that date or at the door will need to pay ten bucks. All money will be paid at the door. 

Email bender.5@cfaes.osu.edu or make one call to 937.498.7239 to enjoy the savings.

If private pesticide applicator credits are needed, save five bucks by either registering on line at http://pested.osu.edu (via credit card), or download the registration form and send a check in by Dec. 31, to the address on the form. That total cost is $35. CCA credits cost $20, payable at the door on Monday, Jan. 9.

Up to 20 percent of the corn crop remained to be harvested last week in some areas of western Ohio. Farmers hoped for frozen ground to avoid rutting and soil compaction. One farmer who had rutted a poorly tiled field mentioned a ditcher is being scheduled to install tile prior to spring planting.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the author and not necessarily those of Farm World. Readers with questions or comments for Roger Bender may write to him in care of this publication.