Workshop to focus on 2017 fertilizer and crop inputs

Lena - Profitable crop production requires properly managing the costs of all cropping system inputs, from nutrient sources to seed treatments to pest management.

“That’s particularly true for currently projected 2017 crop budgets, as they indicate an extremely tight economic year for crop producers,” said Scott Reuss, UW-Extension crops/soils agent for Marinette and Oconto counties. “And we’re offering a workshop to assist producer decision-making in these critical areas.”

He noted the session is designed to help producers examine the anticipated rates of return for various crop inputs, focusing on nutrient management in the morning, and switching to seed and seed treatments, other crop additives, and pest management after lunch.

“The morning discussion will give producers the opportunity to analyze their nutrient input options from the standpoint of crop profitability, while still meeting their nutrient management plan needs,” Reuss explained..

The session will be held from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 7 at the Lena Town Hall. The discussion will be oriented toward the needs and interests of attending producers, but will likely include such questions as:

• Where is the balance point between input cost and yield potential?
• Where is my return highest from manure and other on-farm nutrient sources?
• How can soil sampling and/or nutrient management plan development help me?
• Where can I skimp on nutrients, or pest management costs, without hurting my yield potential?
• Is it the right year to try this new product I’ve been hearing about?

“The most important questions will be those brought by attendees,” said Reuss who will lead the discussion.

There will be a $10 charge for this program, which includes lunch and all handouts.  Pre-registration is requested, but not required.  To register, or for more information, contact Reuss at 715-732-7510, toll-free at 1-877-884-4408, or email scott.reuss@ces.uwex.edu  The Lena Town Hall is located at 6087 Goatsville Road, the intersection of Goatsville and Jagiello Roads.