By Andi Anderson
The 2024 Forage Webinar Series, co-hosted by I-29 Moo University and the Northern Plains Forage Association, continues Tuesday, Dec. 10, from 7 to 9 p.m. This informative evening session will feature six expert presenters who will address key topics related to forage production, each with a brief presentation of 10 to 20 minutes.
The program aims to provide valuable insights into climate impacts, disease management, and economic considerations in forage farming.
Madelynn Wuestenberg, an agricultural climatologist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, will kick off the program by discussing climate resilience.
With a background in agroecosystem modeling, she will focus on helping farmers address climate-related challenges. Wuestenberg’s role involves working closely with farmers to provide research-based solutions for building climate resilience in agriculture.
Amber Friedrichsen, editor of Hay & Forage Grower, will provide a comprehensive overview of this year’s alfalfa growing and harvest conditions, as well as forage test results.
Friedrichsen, who grew up on a farm and holds a degree in agricultural communications and agronomy, brings a deep understanding of forage conditions and industry trends.
Deb Sumac, a supervisory research geneticist with the USDA Agricultural Research Service, will discuss disease pressure in alfalfa and the advancements in alfalfa breeding.
Sumac’s work focuses on developing universal DNA markers for alfalfa and a reference genome sequence, aiming to enhance disease resistance in forage crops.
Scott Newell, an alfalfa outreach specialist with UW-Madison Extension, will provide insights on how 2024 weather conditions could impact 2025 alfalfa production.
Newell’s work centers on improving alfalfa’s role in the U.S. agricultural landscape, with a focus on resilience and sustainability.
Everett Thomas, a long-time agronomist and president of Oak Point Agronomics, will speak on how weather influences alfalfa-grass seeding rates, focusing on how to maximize both yield and quality.
Jason Johnson, an extension economist at Texas A&M, will discuss the economic aspects of forage storage structures. With expertise in agricultural finance, Johnson will cover practical strategies for reducing costs and maximizing efficiency in forage storage.
The webinar is free to attend, but participants must register at least one hour in advance at https://go.iastate.edu/FORAGE2024. This event offers a valuable opportunity for farmers and industry members to gain insights from nationally recognized experts.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-0shut0
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Alfalfa