Agronomy Articles
Preparation for Spring 2025
By Andy Stapleton, Precision Ag Manager
Analyzing yield data during the winter is a helpful tool when deciding on variable rate planting for the next season.
The main goal of variable rate seeding is placing the seed at the right population in the right place to optimize yield potential of a given zone. This should lead to more stable yields across the entire field. Same process with variable rate fertility practices, variable rate seeding should be looked at as another risk management tool that increases production over time.
Most seeding maps start with several years of yield data combined into a normalized yield map with generally 3-5 zones. In addition to yield data, soil test data can be added for more detailed zone management. These management zones will allow you to determine yield capability and arrive at a proper plant population for each zone.
Variable rate seeding prescriptions are included in all our CMT packages. If this is something you would like to try this season, please submit any yield data to either myself or your sales agronomist.
1/10/2025
Into the Future
By Ryan McGinnis, Agronomist, Dimock
The end of 2024 brought South Dakota a nice surprise. Moisture was much needed going into the new year. Most, if not all, of our growers are finished with their fall fertility/spreading. Warm December weather has allowed growers to finish applying fall herbicides such as Valor, making springtime crop protection easier for everyone. Unfortunately, grain prices still aren’t in favor of the farmer currently. Fertilizer prices continue to increase, making things more difficult for growers as well. The new year brings new opportunities for Central Farmers Cooperative. Having a good group of co-workers who care makes a world of difference in this industry. I’m excited to look into the future and be a part of what this company represents and stands for.
1/3/2025
Plan for the New Year
By Cody Plamp, Agronomy Department Sales & Marketing Manager
With the first of the year right around the corner many growers are starting to lock in next year’s inputs. With that, I think it is very crucial that we focus on what worked from last year and what did not. The main focus that I suggest is on different chemical options. This year there are many ways you can save a big amount of money by partnering your chemical and seed together with the same company. For example, if you are buying Dekalb/Asgrow seed there are huge savings to be had if you partner that seed with Bayer Chemistry. These programs have the potential to put money back in your pocket which can help the bottom line when calculating input costs and need to be figured in when comparing prices to generic chemicals.
Financing is becoming more important with the high interest rates. At CFC we strive to offer our growers the most competitive price, at the best rate on interest and we have many different companies we are working with. Make sure to reach out with questions to any of our agronomists or Megan McCoy in the Marion office.
Another item to focus on when booking 2025 inputs is fertilizer. The AMS market seems to be the biggest concern currently, with the price continuing to move up. If you have not locked your fertilizer in for spring 2025, I would recommend looking into it. Knowing your bottom line and being organized will help you know when the right time is to buy. Make sure you sit down with your agronomist to organize the fertilizer plan for your operation when booking fertilizer tons. This will help reduce leftover tons after fertilizer has been applied next spring. Having a fertilizer plan is also very crucial when it comes to split applying nitrogen.
Having a plan, being organized and knowing our input costs will all play a major role in our success as agronomists and as growers. If you have any questions regarding seed and chemical programs you may be able to take advantage of, make sure to contact your local agronomist as these programs all have deadlines. Have a safe and prosperous new year.
12/27/2024
Agronomy Staff
 Jeff Schmiesing
Agronomy Dept. Manager
Cell: 605-940-7665
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 Allen Johansen
Agronomy Dept.
Purchasing Manager
Cell: 605-661-4882
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