Alfalfa field
There are a number of projects which I am working or cooperating on this growing season. A key regional project is the annual First Crop Alfalfa Quality Monitoring, which I will be conducting at least weekly from mid-May until most fields are harvested. Along with that project, I am taking part in a state-wide project comparing the PEAQ estimation method to laboratory analysis results. Two other state-wide projects are an alfalfa nutrient use study and a waterhemp population dynamics in alfalfa study. If you have alfalfa fields and are interested in allowing one of them to be used for any of these projects, please see distinct needs below and reply to me at scott.reuss@wisc.edu with your interest.
+ Alfalfa First Crop Quality Monitoring: I walk about 20 representative fields across the four counties trying to have at least one field in each generalized area. If you have alfalfa fields you feel are representative of your area and are willing to let me walk them once (or possibly twice as we get close to harvest) a week, please get me the field location, seeding year, and cultivar information.
+ PEAQ/Lab comparison study. As part of 1st Crop Monitoring, I need 5 representative fields (Langlade, Marinette, Oconto, and one each Western/Eastern Shawano) that are preferrably in their second year to have some additional sampling that aims at correlating in-field quality via laboratory analysis to the PEAQ estimation method. The only additional needs from the field are that I will be clipping a square foot of alfalfa each time I sample these fields as part of the 1st crop monitoring project.
+ Nutrient Usage Study: I need a higher nutrient input 2nd or 3rd year field (i.e. consistent dairy manure application) for this study, yet, as have identified the lower nutrient input field. This study will entail me going into your field and collecting three representive soil samples from three areas within the field and then just prior to each harvest that you conduct, I will get into the field and collect one-two square feet of alfalfa from each of the three areas. The alfalfa will be analyzed to track harvested yield and the amount of nutrients being removed.
“All Things Water
All in One Place / All at One Time”
Langlade County Fairgrounds
May 9th 10-4:00
FREE to participate / FREE to the public
I’m not going to try to list all the activities and learning opportunities that are involved with this event. I will be there helping people understand more about nitrates in ground water and nitrogen management on the farm, AND conducting free well water nitrate testing. Everybody has way too much to do at this time of the year, but it is a great learning opportunity regarding nearly all uses of water and the management aspects of ground and surface water.
If you have any individual questions or informational needs or other assistance, email me at scott.reuss@wisc.edu or call/text to 715-701-0966.