Researchers and Prairie farmers are working to improve on-farm strip trials so results from field-scale experiments are clearer, more reliable and easier to use for management decisions.
Tag Archives on-farm research
Prairie on-farm research programs refine strip-trial methods for clearer results
From Ag Days: Conducting trials in your own fields only works if it fits into your normal operations
Inventor’s digger attachment improves rock-picking efficiency
A Saskatoon-area engineer’s system combines the jobs of a rock picker and a rock digger
Large, partially-buried field boulders are typically beyond the capabilities of a stand-alone rock picker. That usually means digging them out some other way, with a different machine — that is, unless it’s Dave Hundeby’s.
How farmers can help map, monitor and forecast pest outbreaks
Researchers can help producers develop pest management plans — but farmers’ help is needed to know which pests are where, and how many
Prairie scientists conducting research into field crop pests can always use more help from producers — whether it’s by granting access to farmland, or just by reporting what they see in the field.
Evaluating new tech, products and practices
There is always something new around the corner, so how do crop consultants filter out the noise and arrive at a reliable recommendation for their clients?
With new products, new production practices and new technology converging in the agriculture industry at a frenetic pace, independent agronomists and crop advisors try to sort the wheat from the proverbial chaff as they advise clients on what might or might not work on an individual farm. Not only has the pace of introducing new […] Read more
Having those tough conversations
A veteran agronomist, speaking at the recent Manitoba Agronomists Conference, offers advice on how to handle difficult discussions with clients
There is perhaps no bigger challenge for an agronomist than having a tough but frank conversation with a farmer client. You won’t get any argument on that count from Ron Tone. He founded Tone Ag Consulting in 1996, following a 17-year career as a farmer. His independent agricultural consulting firm specializes in damage claims, crop […] Read more
Research confirms value of taller crop stubble
Technology is available to help set up, measure and monitor on-farm research projects
Leaving taller crop stubble in the fall can improve the odds of higher crop yield in the following year, says Saskatchewan crop consultant Mike Palmier. His field observations in the 2021 growing season, followed by on-farm research trials through 2022 and 2023, produced data to support a recommendation to leave taller crop stubble. Even a […] Read more
A whole new approach to on-farm research
February deadline approaches for the next round of projects
Gord Ellis and Wade McAllister are two Alberta producers who say properly designed, field-scale, on-farm research projects over the past couple of growing seasons have provided some valuable information relevant to their farms. Both producers were involved in the relatively new Plot2Farm program developed by the Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions. In 2020, Ellis, of […] Read more