Corn Silage Program
Corn silage production in the area is very important to our local economy and it is vital to our local dairy families. The last 4 years corn silage has averaged an estimated $10,830950.00 per year in economic value. There are a lot of local products and services being used to produce this crop.
We have seen some new challenges for our local corn crop including a new to us disease that is being called “Red Stunt Disease Complex.” this disease is transmitted by the corn leafhopper and has potential to be devastating to a corn crop. We are also seeing an increase in corn ear diseases every year, which can also lower quality and cause issues with fumonisin and mycotoxins. We have also noticed more damage from nematodes on some ground.
Of course, the corn rootworm is a continual pest for local producers. The good news is that there has been a tremendous amount of research and sampling done in corn fields in the county to help deal with some of these management concerns. Many treatments and protocols that are recommended are developed right here on our locally grown corn.
We have a program coming up in November to help farmers recognize and manage these corn issues and to share some of the research data. The Corn Silage Program will be held Thursday, November 21 st from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the Comanche Community Center. We have the best experts and specialists coming to discuss some of the management challenges we are seeing in corn. Dr. Kerns, Extension Entomologist, will be talking about corn root worm and leaf hopper research and management. Dr. Isakeit, Extension Plant Pathologist, will be discussing corn diseases, nematodes, and corn ear diseases. Dr. Schnell, Extension State Crops Specialist, will be talking about bio-stimulants, short stature corn, and nutrient management. Dr. Gonzalez will be talking about some beneficial nematode research being conducted in the county.
We will also have a round table discussion with local seedsman, agronomist, and these specialists to help answer questions you might have. This program is packed full of good information, and we will be offering 3 IPM CEU’s and 1 DOPA credit. Lunch will be provided by our great local sponsors.