Workshop to discuss forage selection and management
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Forage producers can learn about best management practices that will improve forage production and use at a Sept. 1 workshop.
The Forage Management Workshop, hosted by the Purdue Crop Diagnostic Training and Research Center, will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Purdue Agronomy Center for Research and Education, 4540 U.S. 52, West Lafayette.
The workshop has sessions that emphasize seed labels, toxicity concerns from weeds, anti-quality issues (characteristics that may reduce livestock digestibility or palatability) of different forages, soil fertility, and fencing and watering options. Speakers also will discuss the reintroduction of Roundup Ready alfalfa after it was taken off the market many years ago as further environmental assessments were conducted.
Throughout the day, participants can discuss concerns and challenges of this year's growing season.
"Much of the workshop is spent in the field," said Purdue Extension forage specialist, Keith Johnson. "Farmers may see fields that have experienced some of the same conditions."
Johnson said insects haven't been a major concern this year for forage growers, but weather has been an issue. The 2011 forage crop was delayed by a wet spring and may be damaged by the hot, dry spell of recent weeks.
"Hopefully, enough rain has fallen in the past few days to keep things moving forward," said Johnson. "But growers might consider applying 30-50 pounds of nitrogen per acre by late August to increase pasture productivity of cool-season grasses."
Continuing education units for certified crop advisers and continuing certification hours for Indiana commercial pesticide applicators will be available.
The cost is $80 per person and includes lunch and a Purdue Forage Field Guide. Enrollment is limited to 60 people, and priority will be given to the first paid registrants.
Detailed information about the workshop can be found online at https://www.ag.purdue.edu/agry/dtc/Pages/september1.aspx. For more information, contact Johnson at 765-494-4800, johnsonk@purdue.edu.
Writer: Lisa Schluttenhofer, 765-496-2384, lschlutt@purdue.edu
Source: Keith Johnson, 765-494-4800, johnsonk@purdue.edu
Ag Communications: (765) 494-2722;
Keith Robinson, robins89@purdue.edu
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