During the past couple of weeks, I have utilized this program to provide grain producers with some efficient farming practices and other ideas for responding to the low commodity prices. So far, I have recommended that you plant more mid-season corn hybrids, that you not plant Bt hybrids in 1999, that you apply a 3/4 rate of certain soil insecticides and reduce your phosphorus fertilizer application rates on soils that test high in phosphorus. Depending on your individual situation, these changes could save you from $11.00 to $21.00 per acre this season without adversely affecting your production capability in the long run.

The major factors contributing to the current low commodity prices are over supply and decreased demand. In the future another factor will begin to affect your profitability. Consolidation among seed companies and grain buyers is moving at a tremendous pace. This consolidation will create fewer buying and selling options for grain producers. Decreased competition could result in higher input prices and lower market prices. On top of this, the USDA has recently approved the terminator gene. If this gene is used, it renders the seed from the succeeding crop to be sterile.

If you want to continue to have some choices in the varieties of soybeans you produce and the herbicides you use, you may want to plant some non-Roundup Ready seed with the intent of harvesting it for seed in 1999. Select one or two of the best performing varieties and plant these on your best ground. Inspect the field during the season for seed-borne diseases and other factors that may affect the seed’s performance. Any beans you decide to save for seed should be fully conditioned and tested for purity, germination and vigor. Whenever you save your own seed, you are solely responsible for how well it performs. Remember that it is illegal to save Roundup Ready seed.

Please call me at the Berrien County Extension office before implementing any of these practices as they require additional management to be successful.