Early irrigation topic for June 3 Field Crops Virtual Breakfast
The Field Crops Virtual Breakfast on June 3 will feature MSU irrigation specialists Younsuk Dong and Lyndon Kelly discussing early irrigation strategies.
On the June 3, 2021, Michigan State University ExtensionField Crops Virtual Breakfast, MSU irrigation specialists Younsuk Dong and Lyndon Kelly will give a presentation on the role of early irrigation. We all think of irrigation as applying water that crops need to maintain adequate growth, but June irrigation applications can serve two other major functions. Irrigation can play a beneficial role in improving planter function in dry conditions and help seeds germinate and emerge in dry and crusted soils. Early season irrigation can also be used to reduce nitrogen fertilizer losses and improve herbicide effectiveness by watering in products to activate them and reduce volatilization.
Post-emergent weed control topic for May 13 Field Crops Virtual Breakfast
May 5, 2021
The Field Crops Virtual Breakfast on May 13, 2021, will feature Michigan State University weed scientist Erin Burns discussing effective post-emergent weed control strategies in field crops.
Photo by Erin Burns, MSU
Weeds compete with crops for water, nutrients and light, leading to reductions in crop yield. To maintain yield, it is critical not to miss the timing window for good weed control. Weather, herbicide resistant weeds and unforeseen problems can all contribute to weed challenges. Join us for the Michigan State University ExtensionField Crops Virtual Breakfast at 7 a.m. on Thursday, May 13, 2021, with MSU weed control specialist Erin Burns. She will be discussing the optimal size to control troublesome weeds, crop growth stage restrictions for postemergence herbicide application and options to control mid- to late season weed escapes. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questi
What are my options when renewing my pesticide certification?
Pesticide applicators can now take their certification exam remotely.
According to a recent news release from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), pesticide applicators can now take their certification exams remotely through the Metro Institute. An emergency rule extended pesticide applicator credential whose license expired Dec. 31, 2019, or Dec. 31, 2020, to June 30, 2021. In addition to extending the expiration date, the rule gives applicators six additional months to renew their credential via continuing education courses.
Brian Verhougstraete, MDARD s pesticide section manager, said Between online and in-person exams at Metro Institute s testing centers, there is currently a lot of availability. However, as the June 30 deadline approaches, we expect exam availability to tighten up. We are strongly encouraging applicators to schedule their exams now.
The Field Crops Virtual Breakfast on April 29, 2021, will feature Ohio State University entomologist Kelley Tilmon discussing slug life cycle, early season impacts on crops, scouting and management strategies.