Join us as we explore Jessica’s inspiring journey from eastern Oklahoma to becoming an integral part of a diversified farming operation in the northwest. 
She shares her experience transitioning from the wetter, more humid climate of eastern Oklahoma to the drier conditions of the west, adapting to new challenges in soil health, crop insurance trends, and unpredictable weather patterns. 
With deep roots in agriculture, Jessica and her husband, Clint, have grown their operation while raising a family that values hard work and the land.

We also dive into the benefits of no-till farming, how soil conservation plays a key role in long-term sustainability, and what it takes to balance farming, family, and a career in crop insurance. 
Jessica reflects on her time at the assessor’s office, where she gained valuable insights into her new community in Major County. Plus, we reminisce about our days working together at OSU under Dr. Karen Hickman. 

Don’t miss Jessica’s take on the power of networking among producers and how changing weather patterns continue to shape the future of agriculture in Oklahoma.

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Connecting Dietitians with Agriculture: Sherri organizes tours for dietitians to farms and feed yards, providing firsthand experience of agricultural practices. This helps them understand the full lifecycle of food production.

These tours give dietitians confidence in recommending products because they've seen how they're produced. It's about telling the true story of agriculture and nutrition.

Addressing Fears and Misconceptions: Sherri creates a safe environment for dietitians to ask questions about agriculture, no matter how basic they may seem. This open dialogue is crucial for dispelling myths and building trust.

By addressing concerns head-on, Sherri helps bridge the gap between agriculture and nutrition, fostering a more informed perspective among health professionals.

The Humanization of Agriculture: Meeting the people behind the food makes a significant impact. When dietitians connect with farmers and ranchers, they see the human element, making agriculture more approachable.

This personal connection helps to counteract negative perceptions of "big ag" and industrial farming, highlighting the dedication and care that goes into food production.

Building Confidence in Food Recommendations: After participating in Sherri's tours, dietitians report a significant increase in their confidence in recommending products like beef. This is due to the positive experiences and education they receive.

Providing dietitians with accurate information and firsthand experiences empowers them to make informed recommendations, benefiting both their clients and the agricultural community.

Sustainable Nutrition for Farmers and Ranchers: Sherri works with farmers and ranchers to improve their long-term health through personalized nutrition coaching. She understands their unique challenges, such as long hours and limited access to grocery stores.

By focusing on sustainable, long-term solutions rather than restrictive diets, Sherri helps her clients make healthier choices that fit their lifestyles, enabling them to enjoy a better quality of life.

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What We Learned In This Episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast

The Importance of Delivery Points: Producers need accessible locations to deliver diverse products like white wheat, mung beans, and sesame. Without these nearby delivery points, it's unrealistic to expect them to participate in niche markets.

Having accessible delivery points is crucial for producers, especially for specialty crops. Producers need a place to deliver their products quickly and efficiently during harvest.

Bridging the Gap Between Agriculture and Food: One of the biggest challenges is connecting production agriculture with the food industry. Farmers think in bulk, but the food business requires consistent supply and specific standards.

Bridging the gap between agriculture and the food industry involves addressing differences in how each operates. Farmers typically deal in bulk, while the food industry needs a consistent, year-round supply that meets specific safety and quality standards.

The Role of Infrastructure: Infrastructure, especially cold storage, is critical for family farms building direct-to-consumer beef programs. The lack of available infrastructure in rural areas is a significant bottleneck.

Infrastructure, particularly cold storage, is essential for family farms aiming to sell beef directly to consumers. The scarcity of such infrastructure in rural areas poses a major challenge.

The Consumer's Growing Interest: Consumers are increasingly interested in where their food comes from and are seeking cleaner ingredients. This trend presents an opportunity for local and regional food systems.

Consumers are showing more interest in the origins of their food and are actively seeking cleaner, healthier options. This growing awareness creates a significant opportunity for local and regional agriculture.

The Franchisable Ecosystem Model: The model Brady is developing—small ecosystems with post-farm infrastructure, delivery points, and value-added processing—can be replicated across the country.

Brady's approach of creating small, localized ecosystems with essential infrastructure can be scaled and replicated nationwide. This model supports local agriculture by adding value to specialty crops.

The Need for Risk Management: Managing risk is crucial, especially with specialty crops that lack traditional futures contracts. Hedging through contracts with the next point in the supply chain is essential.

Effective risk management is vital, particularly for specialty crops without established futures contracts. Securing contracts further down the supply chain helps mitigate potential losses.

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We discussed the current state of wheat crops in Oklahoma and the exciting new wheat variety, "Orange Blossom," developed by OSU's Wheat Improvement Team. Dr. Carver's insights into wheat breeding and genetics are particularly enlightening, especially regarding the balance between innovation and practical application for farmers.

Oklahoma Crop Conditions: The fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels have created a mixed bag for wheat crops across Oklahoma. Some areas are showing decent growth, while others are struggling due to early freezes.
It's crucial for farmers to monitor their fields closely and adjust management practices accordingly to mitigate stress and optimize growth.

Introducing "Orange Blossom": Dr. Carver introduced the new wheat variety, "Orange Blossom," which is inspired by the successful "Double Stop" variety.
This new variety aims to maintain high yield potential while offering herbicide tolerance, making it a valuable option for farmers seeking improved weed control.

Advancements in Wheat Breeding: The use of DNA markers and double haploids has significantly accelerated the wheat breeding process.
These techniques allow for more efficient and effective development of new varieties, ensuring that farmers have access to the best possible genetics.

Market Potential of Hybrid Wheat: We discussed the potential market for hybrid wheat and the challenges associated with its adoption.
Dr. Carver emphasized that significant yield improvements are necessary to encourage farmers to transition from traditional varieties to hybrids, highlighting the importance of economic viability in agricultural innovation.

Importance of Certified Seed: The conversation underscored the benefits of using certified seed to ensure genetic purity and maximize yield potential.
Investing in certified seed can provide farmers with a reliable source of high-quality genetics, leading to improved crop performance and profitability.

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Wheat production has evolved dramatically since the 1960s. New seed technologies and farming practices have transformed yields and quality. Embracing change is key to thriving in Oklahoma's agriculture.

What We Learned From Our Chat With Don:

- The transition from older wheat varieties to newer ones has significantly improved yield and quality.
- Precision farming techniques, such as auto-steering and section control, have transformed wheat farming efficiency.
- Don's seed cleaning business illustrates the entrepreneurial spirit within agriculture, stemming from a personal need.
- Community ties and educational contributions play a vital role in the agricultural sector.
- Shifts to no-till farming practices have become standard, promoting sustainability in wheat production.
Don's experiences as a football referee provide a unique perspective on community involvement and resilience.

Wheat Varieties

Don discussed the transition from older wheat varieties like Newton and Triumph 64 to newer ones such as Double Stop and High Cotton. This shift has led to notable improvements in both yield and quality, showcasing the importance of innovation in agriculture.

Technological Advancements

The introduction of precision farming techniques, including auto-steering and section control, has revolutionized wheat farming. These advancements allow farmers to operate more efficiently, reducing waste and increasing productivity.

Seed Cleaning Business

Don's venture into seed cleaning began with a personal need and grew into a successful business. His story illustrates the entrepreneurial spirit that drives many in the agricultural sector, highlighting how personal experiences can lead to innovative solutions.

Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, Don shared anecdotes about community events, such as waffle parties, that strengthen relationships among local farmers. This sense of community is vital in agriculture, fostering collaboration and support.

Important Quote from Don Schieber

"I don't like making money off of other people's disasters." - Don Schieber reflecting on global wheat markets.

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In this episode, we talked with Jerry May about:

The Evolution of Precision Agriculture: Explore the shift from basic soil sampling to advanced data collection and analysis.

Custom Farming Services: Understand the rise of custom planting and application services in response to high equipment costs and an aging farmer demographic.

Crop Rotation and Diversification: Learn about the benefits of diverse crop rotations, including winter canola and cotton, to enhance yields and manage risks.

Hear from Jerry May, founder of May Precision Ag, as he shares his journey from working with John Deere to establishing a successful custom farming business. We also discuss how market dynamics, such as cattle prices and wheat production, influence farmers' decisions.

Key takeaways include:

The average age of U.S. farmers is around 71 years, driving the trend towards custom farming services.

Wheat yields can increase by 15-20% when rotated with winter canola.

Don't miss out on this informative episode! If you find value in our discussions, please like this video and subscribe to our channel for more insights on agriculture and farming practices. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

For more resources mentioned in this episode, check out our website.

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We discuss the significance of crop insurance in managing risks associated with unpredictable weather and market fluctuations, highlighting the need for farmers to stay informed about policy changes and deadlines.

What we learned from Bambi of Sidwell Insurance:
- Crop insurance is essential for sustaining agricultural operations and stabilizing food prices amidst unpredictable conditions.
- The insurance landscape has evolved, with more crops covered and increased complexity in policy procedures.
- A strong relationship with crop insurance agents and the FSA is crucial for effectively navigating programs and deadlines.
- Understanding written agreements is vital for crops not typically covered by standard insurance.
- Proactive engagement with insurance agents can help farmers stay ahead of changing agricultural policies.
- Misconceptions about "farming for insurance" are addressed, emphasizing that good management leads to better insurance outcomes.

 

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Strategic Farming: The necessity of treating farming as a business, focusing on long-term planning and risk management.

Crop Rotation: The benefits of a diverse cropping system to enhance soil health and yield.

Market Awareness: The importance of prioritizing agronomic factors and weather conditions over short-term market fluctuations.

Community Engagement: The role of educating landlords and fostering community connections to support sustainable practices.

Mental Health in Agriculture: The emotional challenges of farm transitions and the need for creative outlets to manage stress.

The Joneses emphasize that farming should be treated as a business. This approach involves long-term planning and effective risk management to ensure sustainability and profitability. They highlight that the margins in farming are too thin to operate without a solid business strategy.

Implementing a diverse cropping system is vital for improving soil health and reducing reliance on single crops. The Joneses advocate for a five-crop rotation system, which includes canola, wheat, grain sorghum, soybeans, and corn, to enhance overall yield and sustainability.

While market prices can influence farming decisions, the Joneses stress the importance of focusing on agronomic factors and weather conditions. They believe that understanding these elements is crucial for making informed decisions that benefit the farm in the long run.

Karen highlights the significance of educating landlords and fostering community connections. By building relationships within the community, farmers can support sustainable practices and create a network that benefits everyone involved in agriculture.

The emotional challenges of transitioning farm management can be daunting. Karen shares her experiences discussing mental health with fellow farmers, emphasizing the need for creative outlets, such as sewing, to manage stress and maintain well-being in the agricultural sector.

Rod Jones stated, "You have to treat farming like a business; the margins are too thin to do otherwise." This quote encapsulates the essence of their message about the importance of a business-oriented approach to farming.

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Dr. Sharry Had A Lot To Say

• The transition from academic knowledge to practical application is crucial for success in graduate programs.
• Building relationships with faculty and peers enhances the graduate school experience and fosters mentorship.
• Engaging in hands-on learning through research projects early on is invaluable for developing relevant skills.
• Humorous anecdotes, like a combine mishap during harvest, highlight the unpredictable nature of fieldwork.
• Grit is essential for navigating the challenges of graduate education and achieving long-term goals.
• Reevaluating tillage practices in light of nutrient stratification can spark important discussions in agronomy.
• Prospective students should seek out research opportunities to build relationships and gain practical experience.

- The critical transition from academic knowledge to practical application in agronomy.
- The importance of building relationships and mentorship in graduate programs.
- The invaluable role of hands-on learning and early research engagement.
- The unpredictable nature of fieldwork and the camaraderie it fosters.
- The significance of grit and perseverance in achieving long-term goals.

The transition from academic knowledge to practical application is crucial for success in agronomy. Master’s programs focus on teaching how to conduct science, while PhD programs emphasize applying that knowledge in real-world scenarios. This distinction shapes how students approach their studies and research.

Building relationships with faculty and peers is essential for success in graduate programs. Mentorship plays a significant role in guiding students through their academic journey, providing support and insights that can make a substantial difference in their experience.

Practical experience in the field is invaluable. Engaging in research projects early on allows students to gain relevant skills and knowledge, preparing them for the challenges they will face in their careers.

Raiden shared a humorous anecdote about a combine mishap during harvest, illustrating the unpredictable nature of fieldwork. Such experiences foster camaraderie among team members and highlight the importance of adaptability in research.

Grit, defined as perseverance and passion for long-term goals, is emphasized as a critical trait for success in graduate school. Students must cultivate this quality to navigate the challenges they encounter along their academic journey.

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The importance of soil health and nutrient management in agriculture

The impact of recent rainfall on winter crops and pastures

The adaptability of wheat and its role in Oklahoma's agriculture

Practical advice on soil testing and nutrient application

Insights into the debate surrounding cover crops

The podcast emphasizes the critical role of soil organic matter and microbial activity in maintaining soil health. These factors are particularly important after periods of drought, as they influence nutrient availability and overall soil quality. Producers must prioritize soil health to ensure sustainable crop production.

Oklahoma has experienced significant rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 10 inches. This precipitation has revitalized winter crops and pastures, leading to improved conditions for wheat and other crops. The rainfall has also resulted in elevated nitrate levels in the soil, which necessitates careful nutrient management strategies to optimize crop growth.

The flexibility of wheat as a crop is a key highlight of the episode. Wheat demonstrates resilience in Oklahoma's variable climate, making it a staple for producers. Understanding the adaptability of crops like wheat can help farmers make informed decisions about crop management and planting strategies.

Producers are encouraged to conduct soil tests to monitor nutrient levels, particularly after significant rainfall. Soil testing allows farmers to adjust their nutrient management practices accordingly. For instance, if grazing, it is advisable to consider nitrogen application during slow growth periods to support crop health.

The podcast also touches on the ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of cover crops in different soil types and climates. Opinions vary on their benefits in Oklahoma compared to northern states. Understanding these differing perspectives can help producers make better decisions about incorporating cover crops into their management practices.

Soil health is essential for sustainable agriculture, particularly after drought.

Recent rainfall has improved conditions for winter crops, necessitating careful nutrient management.

Wheat's adaptability is crucial for resilience in Oklahoma's agriculture.

Soil testing is vital for informed nutrient application decisions.

The debate on cover crops highlights the need for tailored management strategies based on local conditions.



(00:00:03) - Introduction to the episode and guest Dr. Danny Adamson

(00:00:16) - Update on rainfall across Oklahoma and its impact on winter crops

(00:01:04) - Introduction of the team including Dr. Brian Arnall and Dr. Josh Lofton

(00:01:43) - Discussion on summer crop harvest and winter crop progress

(00:02:10) - Brian shares insights on the recent rain and its effects on wheat

(00:03:05) - Observations on soil tests and microbial activity post-rain

(00:05:01) - Recommendations for nitrogen application for grazing and grain-only scenarios

(00:06:40) - Discussion on the timing of nitrogen applications and its impact on wheat growth

(00:08:01) - Comparison of canola and wheat regarding winter applications and tiller management

(00:09:37) - Discussion on canola tillers and their impact on yield.

(00:10:09) - Brian mentions the challenges canola faces.

(00:10:12) - Josh emphasizes the importance of leaf regrowth in canola compared to wheat.

(00:10:49) - The difference in bolting times between canola and wheat is highlighted.

(00:11:21) - Dave raises a question about insect benefits for plant growth.

(00:11:43) - Brian discusses the expected absence of army worms due to cold weather.

(00:12:06) - Josh shares insights on the flexibility of wheat planting in Oklahoma.

(00:12:31) - The adaptability of crops to local conditions is discussed.

(00:13:02) - Brian expresses pride in Josh's presentation on the importance of wheat.

(00:13:35) - Josh talks about the stability of wheat compared to other crops.

(00:14:03) - The challenges faced by the canola market in Oklahoma are mentioned.

(00:14:42) - Dave asks about replant strategies for wheat affected by soil crust.

(00:15:56) - Brian advises checking the wheat's emergence through crusts.

(00:16:15) - Josh highlights the growing interest in spring-planted oats.

(00:17:13) - Introduction of Danny, the new soil and water conservation specialist.

(00:18:11) - Danny shares a childhood memory of heavy snow on the ranch.

(00:19:04) - Dave recounts a recent trip to Wyoming and the challenges of snow closures.

(00:19:08) - Introduction of Josh Lofton, Ph.D. and light banter about chains for vehicles.

(00:19:35) - Discussion on Brian Arnall, Ph.D.'s certification as a Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) and its significance.

(00:20:12) - Danny Adamson, Ph.D. shares his background growing up on a ranch and his journey into agronomy.

(00:21:04) - Danny reflects on his early career experiences in northern Colorado and the realities of agricultural retail.

(00:22:16) - Emphasis on the value of obtaining a CCA for building confidence and credibility in the field.

(00:23:23) - Danny discusses his transition from a sales role to academia and the importance of research in agriculture.

(00:24:40) - Danny highlights his unique perspective on soil health gained from his research experiences.

(00:25:39) - The group discusses Danny's podcast voice and the dynamics of their conversation style.

(00:26:19) - Danny talks about his new position and the excitement of exploring Oklahoma's diverse agricultural landscape.

(00:27:17) - Josh mentions the need for a new direction in the role, referencing the previous position holder's influence.

(00:28:26) - Danny expresses enthusiasm for the flexibility of his new role and the importance of producer-driven ideas.

(00:29:14) - Discussion on soil health as a growing focus in agriculture and the challenges of quantifying it.

(00:29:41) - Brian Arnall asks Danny about his early observations and thoughts on direction after a couple of months on the ground.

(00:29:57) - Danny discusses the importance of soil organic matter as a foundational indicator of soil health and shares his experiences with the local environment.

(00:30:31) - Danny emphasizes the significance of soil functionality over just building organic matter, noting that management tactics should be tailored regionally.

(00:31:16) - Brian explains the distribution of organic matter in soil, highlighting that most is found in the top 2 to 3 inches.

(00:32:14) - Josh shares insights from his previous experiences, noting that while organic matter gains are possible, expectations should be adjusted for different regions.

(00:33:26) - Brian inquires about Danny's travels, suggesting a sampling trip to the eastern border.

(00:34:12) - Brian outlines an upcoming project involving potassium response strips and soil health properties across various locations.

(00:35:11) - Danny expresses concerns about the challenges of quantifying soil health and the complexity of correlating various soil parameters.

(00:36:33) - Brian discusses the variability in analytical methods for measuring soil properties and the need for more research in this area.

(00:37:46) - Josh raises questions about interpreting CO2 flux measurements and their implications for soil health.

(00:39:34) - Danny suggests starting with practical tools for producers, emphasizing fundamental ideas of soil health like retaining residue and using cover crops.

(00:40:03) - Danny discusses the importance of considering different tillage systems and management options to improve soil health.

(00:40:50) - Josh raises questions about the impact of cover crops in cattle-driven systems, particularly in northern Colorado and Wyoming.

(00:41:07) - Danny shares his experiences with irrigated sugar beet farming and the challenges of soil disturbance and residue management.

(00:41:32) - He highlights the potential benefits of integrating legumes into farming practices to enhance nitrogen availability economically.

(00:42:36) - Danny emphasizes that the outcomes of using cover crops may not be as severe as perceived, suggesting it could be worth trying.

(00:42:50) - Josh reflects on the skepticism surrounding cover crops and discusses their role in water management and biomass production.

(00:44:23) - Dave asks Danny about the similarities he has observed between producers in Oklahoma and those in Wyoming and northern Colorado.

(00:45:01) - Danny expresses his appreciation for the focus on cattle in Oklahoma and the importance of integrating livestock into soil management practices.

(00:46:08) - Raedan raises concerns about the future of water availability and the role of cattle in sustainable food systems in the High Plains.

(00:48:35) - Dave thanks Danny for joining the podcast and invites listeners to engage with the Red Dirt Agronomy community.

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