2019 Spring Farm Outlook

2019 Logan County Farm Outlook Magazine Lincoln Daily News March 21, 2019 Page 41 In the field technology not only tabulates seed planting rates, but also fertilizer and chemicals, known as variable rates. The field data saves using the whole rate of the product where it is not needed. Field improvements can also be determined, such as if and where tiles might be laid so wet areas will not deplete nutrients to the crop. What the Klockenga finds as one of the best technologies is using the Yield Monitor that is inside the combine and tractor. It is connected to a satellite and records and stores information and relays all kinds of information; it’s not just about seed. They have found it worth the money to purchase the technology and it has paid for itself almost since the first year of purchase. By way of example, the system allows the planter to shut off one row at a time and saves seed. Klockenga said that it can go 10 miles an hour and the faster it goes the more accurate it plants the seed width. “High speed planting helps where small details are a concern. We have the technology to cover a lot of ground efficiently and more effectively,” said Jones. The Klockenga’s attend farmer seminars held in Sherman by Farm Credit to set up their crop insurance. They also utilize the Top Flight Elevator based in Monticello on marketing strategies, along with learning about other products in meetings by Ag Land FS. Jones recommends the weekly Pro Farmer’s magazine to get insight on the market for corn and beans. Continue 8 Vernon actively divides his attention on all aspects of operating the combine while keeping an eye on the yield monitor. The data will be available later for closer examination and assessment. He has a favorite practice of alternating every eight rows with two different types of corn to see which performs better in that field that year. Photo by Jan Youngquist