MP3 $1.25
Field Crops & Small Grains
2008 Organic Farming Conference La Crosse WI
On-farm Crushing of Oilseeds Crops
Biodiesel makes use of raw materials you already raise on your farm, so why not make your own? University of Minnesota cropping systems agronomist Paul Porter and graduate student Seth Fore will explore the feasibility of on-farm biodiesel and vegetable oil production and utilization, and provide a demonstration of an oilseed press in action.
Growing Profitable Small Grains: the Agronomics and Economics of Success
Small grains play a valuable role in organic crop rotations. Join Lakeview Organic Grain’s Mary- Howell Martens for a discussion about the profitable growing and marketing of small grains such as barley, spelt, wheat, oats, and triticale, including topics such as weed control, fertility management, and marketing for feed, food, and seed.
Going with the Grain: Suggestions for Drying, Storage, and Handling of Organic Grains
Profitable organic grain farming means maintaining the quality and value of grain until it is fed or sold. University of Minnesota Extension grain postharvest specialist Bill Wilcke and long-time organic farmer Carmen Fernholz will share their best tips and techniques for drying, storing, and handling organic grains.
Going beyond Insecticides: The Future of Soybean Aphid Management
Effective management of insect pests requires incorporating multiple tactics. ISU soybean entomologist Eileen Cullen will discuss soybean aphid management for organic systems, using this pest to highlight how host plant resistance, biological control, and conservation can reduce the impact of this and other pests.
Optimizing Forage Quality and Hay Profitability
Whether you produce forages for your own farm or for sale, optimizing quality and yield provides the key to profit and livestock health. Karl Dallefield, forage specialist for Midwestern Bio-Ag, will explore the four rules of quality forage production, as well as looking at forage systems, storage, harvest timing, and forage choices for harvested or grazing operations.
Other Conferences
Small Grain Crop Production in an Organic Farming System
Small grains like wheat, barley, oats, and rye play an important role in organic crop rotations. Join University of Minnesota Regional Extension Educator Hans Kandel for a look at the important management decisions and factors to consider in growing small grain crops, plus a discussion of on-farm variety selection.
Organic No-Till: One Pass, Multiple Benefits
Organic no-till, once thought to be impossible, is one of the most exciting new technologies available to row crop producers. The Rodale Institute’s Farm Manager Jeff Moyer will share research and practical results about matching intensive cover crop management with specialized, easy-to-use equipment to successfully establish row crops without tillage.
Managing Weeds in Organic Row Crops
Weed control may present the biggest concern for transitioning and experienced organic farmers. Join Rodale Institute Farm Manager Jeff Moyer for a nuts-and-bolts presentation on systems you can implement and tools you can use to control weeds in organic row crops.
Ridge Till for Organic Farmers
Ridge tillage can provide the same soil erosion and weed control benefits as conventional no-till systems, and can be accomplished without the chemicals. Join farmer Daniel Rosmann for a look at the tools and methods his family has used to improve their farm with ridge till, and why they love it.
Rotation Magic – Designing Crop Rotations to Maximize Soil Health and Profitability
Glen Borgerding and Carmen Fernholz - Rotations are the cornerstone of any organic crop production system. We will discuss some of the essentials of designing crop rotations to manage soil fertility, weeds, pests, disease, and market opportunities.