Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast

Tight margins and wild market swings are back in the driver’s seat—and producers are feeling it. Recorded at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference in Stillwater, Episode 508 features Clay Burtrum (Farm Data Services) walking through why insurance matters even when you hope you never use it. The crew digs into Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) basics, how price protection actually works, and what producers often misunderstand when they start using these tools.

On the crop side, Clay outlines the deadlines and decisions that can make or break your coverage—plus how to think about programs like PRF (Pasture, Rangeland, Forage), annual forage, and stacking options without getting lost in the fine print. Bottom line: in a $4 wheat world with 2026 input costs, staying “bankable” means planning ahead and knowing what you bought.

Top 10 takeaways

Detailed timestamped rundown

00:00–01:46 Dave tees up the episode: why insurance matters, recorded at Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference (Stillwater).
01:46–02:57 Clay Burtrum intro: Farm Data Services (Stillwater), management accounting + 25+ years insurance; LRP and crop insurance, plus helping producers see bottom line year-round.
03:16–04:45 Big-picture ag economy: grain-only operators squeezed; modern costs with “1970s prices”; crop insurance complexity (stackable programs) and need to keep it basic.
04:45–08:43 LRP deep dive: example of insuring a 900-lb steer; why margins need protection; common misunderstandings (full load, unborn coverage requirements, validation); “don’t let it burn down” analogy; all-or-nothing for many stocker operators vs partial strategy for cow-calf.
08:43–10:27 First-time client conversation: goals, where they want to be, staying bankable; traps include ignoring USDA/FSA programs and missing support.
10:27–11:25 Clay as producer: he uses the products himself; emphasizes knowing cost of production and that break-even won’t keep you in business.
11:26–12:50 Crop insurance pitfalls: calling too late; major dates in the area—March 15 sales closing; July 15 reporting; flow of deadlines through the season.
12:50–14:18 $4 wheat vs $7 wheat decisions: changes appetite for added coverage/hail; producer mindset shifts (harvest vs graze-out).
14:18–15:38 Dual-purpose wheat and insurance: need to notify agent by March 15/short-rate timing; cannot just “leave cattle out” without process; consider double-crop rules to avoid uninsured crop risk.
15:38–17:14 Policy/program landscape: farm bill uncertainty and “rules”; emphasis on working with FSA and not missing deadlines/opportunities.
17:14–18:51 Specialty crop/alternative ideas: limited locally; examples like hemp market issues; unusual inquiries (tulips) and regional eligibility realities.
18:51–21:45 PRF pasture coverage: sales closing Dec 1; choosing rainfall intervals; premiums and changing rules; spreading risk across intervals; limits (doesn’t cover “missed cutting” quality loss).
21:45–24:05 Talking to policymakers: how programs hit local bottom lines; input costs for grazing/forage; how rural communities feel downstream impacts; even equipment/emissions issues affect harvest reality.
24:05–25:43 Oklahoma risk reality: rapid weather swings; questions like quarantine/screwworm, wildfire loss—what LRP does/doesn’t cover; importance of understanding what you actually bought.
25:43–27:20 “Bring one program back”: Clay wants simplicity—too many stacked options; focus on basics and bottom-line impact. Wrap + thanks.

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Flies, ticks, and parasites don’t just annoy cattle—they steal gain and profit. Recorded live at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference in Stillwater, OK, this episode features Dr. Jonathan Cammack (OSU Extension livestock entomology & parasitology) breaking down what producers should know about common pests like horn flies, how researchers test control tools, and why day-to-day management matters more than most folks think.

The team also tackles two headline issues: New World screwworm and the invasive Asian longhorned tick. Dr. Cammack explains why screwworm is such a serious wound pest, how sterile insect technique works, and why animal movement can spread risk faster than the fly ever could. Then they pivot east—where Asian longhorned ticks have been detected in Oklahoma—and discuss why explosive tick populations and tick-borne disease threats are a growing concern across the region.

Top 10 takeaways for producers

Detailed timestamped rundown

00:00–01:06 Dave Deken tees up Episode 507: flies, ticks, parasites; guest Dr. Jonathan Cammack; recorded at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference in Stillwater.
01:06–02:42 “Trip around the table” intros: Brian Arnall and Josh Lofton; setting the scene at the Payne County Expo Center.
02:42–06:56 Cammack’s role: OSU Extension livestock entomology/parasitology; what he covers across livestock species; why they keep fly colonies (houseflies, blowflies) for research and pesticide trials.
06:56–10:51 Colony realities: genetic bottlenecks, refreshing genetics from field populations; why “susceptible” vs “resistant” strains matter for chemical testing.
10:51–14:54 How trials work: planning population numbers; counting flies on cattle with visual estimates + photos; students doing image-based counts; “2000+” becomes the practical ceiling.
14:54–20:01 Screwworm basics: obligate parasite of living tissue; eggs hatch fast (12–24 hours); damage can be severe; regulatory questions around response/harvest are still evolving.
20:01–27:44 Control strategy: sterile insect technique; females mate once; sterile males overwhelm wild males; program history and why scaling facilities matters as the “front” widens northward.
27:44–30:40 Beyond cattle: wildlife, pets, and people can be affected; reminder that wildlife movement can complicate containment; key deer example in Florida Keys (2016–2017) discussed.
30:40–33:36 Other big concern: Asian longhorned tick found in northeast Oklahoma (summer 2024); parthenogenetic reproduction; potential for heavy infestations and disease-vector risk.
33:36–35:27 Wrap-up: “safe from the west (for now)” tone; thanks to guest; where to find resources (reddirtagronomy.com).

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Episode 506 dives into soil nutrition and the real-world decisions behind soil testing with Jace Whitehead of EnviroAg Laboratories, an OSU Plant & Soil Sciences grad who built a soil testing lab from his hometown roots and now supports producers across the Southern Plains. The crew breaks down what soil test “extractions” actually measure, why Mehlich-3 and Bray phosphorus numbers can disagree (especially in low pH soils), and why saturated paste is equal parts chemistry and “perfect brownie mix.” They also sort through base saturation talk, potassium response drivers, rooting depth, and why tissue test numbers can swing with weather more than soil supply.

Up front, you’ll also hear a quick crop update recorded at the Oklahoma Cattle Conference: wheat and canola are starting to respond, diamondback moths are showing up in canola, and the big message for 2026 is to protect flexibility—make informed fertility calls, watch moisture conditions, and don’t spend like it’s a “maximum yield” year if the economics don’t pencil.

10 Takeaways

1. In 2026 economics, flexibility matters—don’t lock in every fertility decision early.
2. Use in-rich strips and real field info to guide N rates, especially in a “cost-cutting year.”
3. Phosphorus is the troublemaker: pH and soil chemistry can make test results look contradictory.
4. Mehlich-3 vs Bray disagreements often come down to what chemical pools each extractant can access.
5. If pH is low, fix that first—otherwise you can “chase P” without getting the response you expect.
6. Saturated paste is useful for salinity/salt issues, but it’s a technique-sensitive, “art + science” test.
7. Base saturation ratios sound appealing, but often don’t pay to chase compared to bigger constraints.
8. Heavy clay and shallow rooting can masquerade as “cation ratio problems”—look for the real limiting factor.
9. Potassium response may be tied to rooting zone depth/limitations more than a simple top-6-inch soil test.
10. Tissue test numbers can swing with the environment; treat them as clues, not automatic prescriptions.

Timestamped Rundown

00:00:00–00:01:35 — Welcome + episode setup

Dave previews the topic: soil nutrition deep dive and an interview with Jace Whitehead, OSU Plant & Soil Sciences alum and soil-testing lab owner.

00:01:35–00:22:44 — Crop update (recorded Feb. 13, 2026)

Wheat/canola starting to respond; moisture “patchy,” with rain hopes and a reminder not to overreact early.

Nitrogen timing: don’t feel forced to put “all eggs in the basket” early; use information and flexibility.

Push for in-rich strips and better decision-making in a “cost-cutting year.”

Pre-plant planning: soil test now for summer crops; consider partial replacement strategies on P & K if economics demand it.

Canola scouting note: diamondback moth reports.

Market reality check: wheat may look good but price is weak; “hot crops” might be four-legged.

00:22:44–00:24:30 — Guest introduction

Brian introduces Jace Whitehead and the unusual path: starting a soils lab and building sample volume through precision ag services.

00:24:30–00:29:30 — Environmental testing + saturated paste

Jace explains oilfield-related soil testing and salinity work; one-to-one extracts and saturated paste use cases.

Brian’s saturated paste explanation: “perfect brownie mix” consistency as the endpoint.

00:29:30–00:36:10 — Why phosphorus tests disagree (Mehlich vs Bray)

Jace raises a producer-facing problem: Bray numbers low at low pH while Mehlich can run higher.

Brian breaks down the chemistry: extractants differ in what forms they pull, and acidity complicates interpretation.

Practical takeaway: address pH first; be cautious about overconfidence in a single number.

00:36:10–00:40:45 — Business realities + soil trends

Jace talks scale (thousands of samples/year) and why “one-off” conversations are hard to fund at low per-sample pricing.

Trend discussion: rotation can drive better management attention to pH and nutrients; canola helped push rotation thinking.

00:40:45–00:49:30 — Base saturation, K response, and rooting depth

Base saturation & ratios: strong theory, but often weak economic payoff to chase in practice.

High-magnesium soils: often a “correlation not causation” story tied to heavy clay/rooting restrictions.

Big idea: we’ve over-focused on a 6-inch slice; better fertility management looks at the rooting zone and limiting layers.

Tech wish list: on-the-go tools (even GPR-style concepts) to map depth/limitations.

00:49:30–00:57:15 — What it means for producers + tissue testing reality

“Find trusted advisors” who can handle both plant and soil chemistry questions, and keep asking questions.

Tissue tests: Brian explains how nutrient concentrations can swing with weather/conditions, making blanket recs risky.

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Recorded live from the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at the 2026 KNID AgriFest in Enid, the crew sits down with Jeff Hickman—farmer, longtime ag association leader, Oklahoma higher-education regent, and former Oklahoma House Speaker—for a grounded conversation on where agriculture is headed and why local involvement still matters.

Jeff breaks down how ag organizations stay viable in an era of consolidation, why multiple commodity groups working together amplify agriculture’s voice, and how public policy and regulation increasingly shape day-to-day farm decisions. The discussion also hits consumer trust, social media misinformation (and how AI can muddy the waters), and why agriculture has to keep educating an audience that forgets fast.

They close with what Jeff sees coming next—trade uncertainty, the need for a dependable farm policy, and the importance of building relationships with candidates before they’re elected. Practical, candid, and very Oklahoma.

Ten Takeaways

1. Ag organizations are stronger together—shared support can keep smaller groups viable and influential.
2. Regulation is often the real battlefield, sometimes more than legislation.
3. Fewer rural/ag lawmakers means ag has to work harder to be understood in policy rooms.
4. Producer involvement doesn’t have to be huge—membership alone helps fund representation and benefits.
5. Markets can disappear even after great yields, driving tough planting decisions (sorghum example).
6. Wheat is in a strategy moment: “What’s our thing?” like corn has ethanol—new uses/value streams matter.
7. Consumer curiosity is a double-edged sword—interest is good, misinformation is rampant.
8. AI can accelerate fake “credible” ag narratives, raising the stakes for trusted education.
9. Rural issues resonate when you connect the dots (health care access, metro revenue, statewide economy).
10. Election years are relationship years—don’t wait until after someone wins to introduce agriculture.

Detailed Timestamped Rundown

00:00–01:44 — Episode open, setting: Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at KNID AgriFest (Enid); introductions.
01:45–03:35 — Jeff Hickman joins; “many hats” across OK ag organizations and higher ed.
03:36–04:44 — Why shared management/back-office support keeps smaller ag groups viable and strengthens ag’s voice.
04:45–06:53 — Policy reality: more dependence on public policy + regulations; increased focus on agencies/administration.
07:03–08:52 — Jeff’s background: journalism/OU roles, media work, farm roots; “planting and harvest were my vacations.”
09:12–12:44 — Political pendulum swings; how DC trends show up in statehouses; fewer rural/ag-connected legislators.
12:45–15:54 — Consumer interest: good and hard; difficulty finding truth; misinformation and AI concerns; supply chain lessons.
15:55–18:29 — Global factors hitting ag (tariffs, shipping routes, even piracy) through a real-world retail/cotton example.
18:30–20:55 — Benefits/challenges of representing many groups; why having a strong government affairs team matters.
21:14–23:59 — What growers are facing: crop choice risk, markets disappearing, wheat’s future “what’s our thing?”; value of membership (and CFAP example).
24:00–27:33 — How to get more producers involved in leadership/politics; timing, family/team approach, candidate mentorship.
28:13–32:50 — Translating rural needs for urban lawmakers (rural hospitals example); rural dollars fueling metro projects.33:26–36:31 — Next 6–9 months: trade unresolved, farm bill/farm policy stability, election-year urgency—build relationships now.
36:32–38:11 — Wrap-up, thanks, and where to find resources.

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In this episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast, we’re joined by 16-year-old Brayden Arnall, who recently won the National FFA Agriscience Award. 
This episode isn’t just about a student project—it’s a story of curiosity turned passion, and a father-son bet that led to a national title. Brayden walks us through his award-winning research on nitrogen stabilizers, tillage practices, and ammonia volatilization, breaking down complex science in an engaging and relatable way. 
Co-hosts Dr. Brian Arnall and Dave Deken, along with guest host Dr. Paul Weckler, offer commentary on the broader impact of youth agricultural programs like FFA and 4-H in Oklahoma and beyond.

Listeners will hear about Brayden's methodology, the surprising results from his controlled barn experiments, and how these findings could influence farming practices. 
Plus, he gives a sneak peek into his next project on winter wheat growth and irrigation. 
Whether you're a researcher, educator, student, or just someone who appreciates the next generation of ag leaders, this episode is packed with inspiration, science, and Oklahoma charm.

Top 10 Key Takeaways

1. Braden Arnall won the National FFA Agriscience Fair with a project on nitrogen stabilizers and tillage.
2. His experiment showed that no-till plots had more ammonia volatilization losses than tilled ones.
3. Anvol was the most effective nitrogen stabilizer in reducing nitrogen loss.
4. Braden began his agriscience journey in middle school, building on skills from 4-H.
5. His project used controlled PVC-tube environments and ammonia detection tools.
6. He’s now researching irrigation impacts on winter wheat and nitrogen use.
7. Youth participation in agriscience is strong in Oklahoma, especially Stillwater.
8. Braden’s early exposure to research is guiding his career toward agronomy.
9. The family’s tradition of “5-minute science” helped Braden understand college-level concepts early.
10. The episode emphasizes the value of mentorship and community in ag education.

Major Discussion Timestamps

00:00–00:02 – Episode setup: the “father-son bet,” Brayden’s national win, and where to find info.
00:01–00:02 – Plug: upcoming recording at the Central Oklahoma Cattle Conference (Feb. 13).
00:02–00:04 – On location at KNID AgriFest (Enid); Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth + the cinnamon roll/bread scene.
00:04–00:07 – Brian explains the “promise” and Brayden’s path: early success, then winning nationals + spotlight presentation.
00:07–00:10 – Dr. Paul Weckler joins; why Agriscience matters for STEM ag careers; what Agriscience competition is.
00:10–00:11 – 4-H speaking background and why it gave Brayden confidence in FFA.
00:11–00:16 – The research: nitrogen stabilizers, tilled vs no-till, ammonia volatilization + nitrate leachate; how the measurements were taken.
00:16–00:18 – Age check (Brayden is 16) + “five-minute science” mentoring and learning the nitrogen cycle.
00:18–00:21 – Agriscience momentum in Stillwater; youth research examples; workforce need in ag engineering/ag systems tech.
00:21–00:25 – Brayden’s new project: rainfed vs irrigated winter wheat response with stabilizers; real-world Oklahoma weather challenges.
00:25–00:27 – Undergrad research opportunities + how early research can feed future grad students.
00:27–00:29 – Media moment: Brayden featured on “Is This a Great State or What?”
00:28–00:31 – What’s next: chapter officer run, public speaking, possible land judging; speech topic See & Spray.
00:30–00:32 – Dr. Weckler’s perspective: computer vision roots and how today’s tech builds on earlier work.
00:30–00:32 – Staying active in both 4-H and FFA; what each teaches.
00:32–00:33 – Wrap + thanks + where to connect.

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In this heartfelt and energizing episode of Red Dirt Agronomy, the team sits down with Dr. Kent Martin at the 2026 KNID AgriFest in Enid. 
Kent, now a full-time faculty member at Northwestern Oklahoma State University, shares how he's bringing real-world agronomy into the classroom. 
From digging soil pits to counting plant populations, his classes give students practical, hands-on experiences that prepare them to think critically and act confidently in their agricultural careers. 
His teaching philosophy—bridging theory and application—stems from his years of experience as a farmer, consultant, and Extension professional.

The conversation also dives into leadership development, highlighting the importance of rural voices in community and national arenas. 
Kent shares stories from his time on the Sorghum Commission and US Grains Council, emphasizing that sometimes the most impactful insights come from simply telling your story. 
Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode offers powerful reminders about the importance of mentorship, service, and authenticity in agriculture. 
It’s a tribute to the value of showing up—on campus, in the field, or at the Capitol.

10 Takeaways

1. Dr. Kent Martin now teaches agronomy full-time at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva.
2. His teaching style is rooted in hands-on, field-based learning to bridge theory with practice.
3. Martin emphasizes the value of students seeing and experiencing agronomy firsthand.
4. The podcast highlights the similarity between Extension and teaching in terms of impact and approach.
5. Leadership is not just about being in front—it includes being a supportive, informed voice behind the scenes.
6. Participation in national sorghum and grain organizations can lead to unexpected influence.
7. Farmers should consider stepping into advocacy roles—your story matters.
8. Teaching is a long game—seeing students “get it” is a powerful reward.
9. Mentorship and passing on leadership are recurring themes across all guests.
10. The Red Dirt Agronomy team encourages rural leaders to take time off the farm for personal and community growth.

Timestamps

0:22 – Introduction to KNID AgriFest 2026 and Dr. Kent Martin
2:18 – Dr. Martin’s new role at Northwestern Oklahoma State University
6:16 – Field-based learning and teaching agronomy by doing
10:07 – From Kansas State Extension to Oklahoma classrooms
13:02 – Comparing Extension work with academic teaching
20:31 – Serving on sorghum and grain boards nationally
24:03 – Recognizing and nurturing future leaders
33:45 – Stories of mentoring students into leadership
42:11 – Encouraging rural voices in policy and community service
46:42 – Why authenticity matters in agricultural leadership
47:30 – Final reflections and call to support rural communities

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Episode 502 takes you straight to the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at the AgriFest in Enid—where the smell of fresh bread and cinnamon rolls is basically a tractor beam for farmers. 
Dave Deken and Dr. Brian Arnall sit down with Kay County wheat producer Tom Cannon, now a new Oklahoma Wheat Commission board member, to pull back the curtain on what “checkoff dollars” actually do. 
Tom shares the producer-side view of how funds support wheat research (better varieties, better quality, better management), expand export demand (he notes about half of Oklahoma wheat is headed overseas), and build ag literacy through hands-on education.

The conversation hits home on why wheat still matters in modern rotations—especially after drought and wind reminded everyone what bare ground can do. 
From no-till residue and moisture protection to the “wheat + cotton” tag-team, Tom makes the case that wheat is the foundational crop that holds systems (and small towns) together. 
And just for fun: you’ll also hear about the “drone posse” concept—proof that Oklahoma agriculture is equal parts tradition, grit, and innovation.

Top 10 takeaways

1. Oklahoma winter wheat is a cornerstone crop economically and agronomically—and it still moves the needle statewide.
2. Checkoff dollars are meant to act like a “marketing + research engine” for producers who are busy producing.
3. Export market development is a major lever because a huge share of wheat demand is outside the local elevator.
4. Producer education about checkoffs matters—refund requests signal a communication gap (Tom estimates ~6–8% refunded).
5. Wheat’s residue is “soil armor” in Oklahoma—helping reduce erosion, slow evaporation, and improve water capture.
6. No-till isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it system; it rewards deeper management—and wheat often anchors that system.
7. Wheat and cotton can complement each other well in rotation, especially when you manage residue and planting windows.
8. Research isn’t just yield—quality traits (protein management, fiber work) protect demand and create new value opportunities.
9. Wheat success ripples through rural economies: equipment, parts, groceries, schools—everyone feels good crop years.
10. Leadership in ag often starts the same way: somebody asks you to step up… and you decide to say yes.

Timestamped Rundown

00:00–00:01 — Dave opens Episode 502; Oklahoma wheat scale and value context; tees up the topic.
00:01–01:52 — Intro of Brian Arnall Ph.D.; episode recorded at the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth at KNID AgriFest (Jan. 10, 2026).
02:05–04:07 — On-location banter: the bread/cinnamon roll operation, on-site oven, “follow your nose” traffic pattern.
04:10–05:23 — Call-back to Tom’s earlier appearance (mental health); stigma fading; “it’s okay to talk.”
05:47–07:52 — Tom’s path to the Wheat Commission board; why producer feedback matters; “their money” must be used wisely.
07:52–11:59 — What the Commission does: promote wheat locally + worldwide; support OSU research; board debate + shared intent.
12:01–13:35 — Export emphasis; Tom notes ~50% of production exported; “what would markets be without it?”
13:35–16:52 — Research examples: nitrogen timing/protein, quality improvements, fiber-enriched wheat; surprise: refund requests (Tom estimates ~6–8%).
17:07–17:55 — Why checkoffs exist: producers aren’t “marketing departments,” commissions fill that role.
18:00–21:25 — Wheat acres + rotations; drought lessons; wheat residue and soil protection; no-till adoption in Kay County.
21:25–24:45 — Cotton + wheat synergy; residue realities; why wheat after cotton works; harvest/header/residue discussion.
24:46–26:29 — Logistics: drill “following the picker,” gin/trucking systems to clear fields fast for planting.
26:29–28:49 — “Drone posse” business model; co-op fleet idea; custom work potential (moving north during fungicide season).
28:53–30:06 — Public-facing work: baking events, wheat quality promotion, school coloring books/education.
30:06–33:47 — Wheat’s ripple effect on rural towns (dealerships, stores, services); extra cents per bushel matters locally; OSU’s role.
34:17–35:58 — Upcoming advocacy: Wheat Day at the Capitol, Ag Day, DC visits; educating policymakers about food production.
36:00–36:51 — Wrap-up and where to connect with the show.

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Recorded live at KNID AgriFest in Enid from the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth, Episode 501 launches Season 5 with a fast-paced crop check and a whole lot of agronomy banter. 
Dave Deken sits down with Brian Arnall and Josh Lofton to talk January wheat realities: dry conditions, odd winter insect pressure, and early reports of wheat diseases showing up sooner than anyone wants. 
They also hit canola concerns—like that purple color—and what to inspect right now (new leaves and crown health) as everyone looks ahead to green-up.

Next, it’s go-time thinking for topdress: why timing, weather, and surface conditions matter—especially when warm days, wind, and dew can increase nitrogen losses. 
Then the conversation turns into a practical deep dive on plant physiology and decision-making: primordia (the “cells in waiting”), how early-season stress can differ from true deficiency, and why chasing genetic potential without respecting environmental limits can hurt ROI. 
If you like your agronomy with real-world nuance (and a little friendly arguing), this one’s for you!

Top 10 takeaways

1. January crop scouting can be misleading—weather swings can make fields look great or “go backwards” fast.
2. Warm winter + dry stretch = unusual pest pressure, including armyworms in wheat.
3. Early disease reports (tan spot, rust, powdery mildew) mean don’t assume “it’s too early.”
4. For canola right now, focus on new leaves and crown—that’s your “are we okay today?” check.
5. Green-up moisture is the hinge point for both wheat tillering and canola recovery.
6. Topdress timing is a system problem (acres, co-op schedules) and a weather-loss problem (dew + warm + wind).
7. If conditions are right to lose N (dry soil + dew/humidity + wind), waiting can be the most profitable move.
8. A lot of management is about what’s happening inside the plant—primordia/cell division—before you ever see it.
9. Stress can be useful; deficiency is where you start giving away yield potential—context (stage/goal) matters.
10. The “right” program depends on your risk profile: protecting max yield vs protecting ROI on inputs.

Detailed timestamped rundown

00:00–01:15 — Welcome to Episode 501 + Season 5 vibes; shoutout to AgriFest and the Wheat Commission cinnamon-roll traffic.
01:16–01:55 — Introductions: Dave Deken with Dr. Brian Arnall and Dr. Josh Lofton; “we were arguing in our office earlier…”
01:46–02:10 — Recorded Jan 9, 2026 at the Oklahoma Wheat Commission booth during AgriFest in Enid.
02:10–03:05 — Cinnamon roll banter + meeting listeners at the booth.
03:07–04:20 — Crop update headline: it’s January, it hasn’t rained, it feels like June; armyworms in wheat; disease confirmations in SW OK.
05:01–06:20 — Canola check: purple color mystery; focus on new leaves + crown health “right now.”
06:35–08:10 — “Magic windows” talk: green-up moisture is critical for canola and wheat tillering.
09:03–10:30 — Rooting + grazing: planting timing affects anchoring; some fields pull easier under cattle.
10:45–12:55 — Topdress season starts early for many; best efficiency late Jan–March; avoid warm/windy/dewy days that can increase N loss (they cite “blow off 15–25%”).
13:00–16:55 — What if winter doesn’t get cold? Daylength and growth timing; discussion on how wide the N window really is.
17:00–22:10 — OSU NPK blog topic: managing “primordia” (cells-in-prep), not just what you see aboveground.
22:10–25:20 — Corn example: by V6 you’ve set rows/potential kernels; stress/deficiency can reduce grain number.
28:50–41:10 — Main debate: stress vs deficiency, “leaf deficient but not the plant,” and Liebig’s Law barrel analogy.
44:20–48:10 — Genetic vs environmental potential, realized yield; precision vs accuracy; risk aversion (yield loss vs input cost).
49:40–50:17 — Wrap + resources at reddirtagronomy.com.

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This episode of the Red Dirt Agronomy Podcast features Dr. Beatrix Haggard, an associate professor in Oklahoma State University’s Department of Plant and Soil Sciences, whose teaching mission is to make sure students know what plant they’re looking at—and how it works. Dr. Haggard walks us through her journey from FFA land judging in Texas to soil science at Tarleton State and LSU, to a regional soil fertility role in the Louisiana Delta, and finally to a teaching-heavy, tenure-track position at OSU. 
Along the way, she explains how those experiences shape how she teaches, from intro plant science to senior seminar, crop judging, and soil morphology.

The crew also explores major shifts in today’s student body and how they change the way agronomy is taught. 
They discuss students working full-time jobs while in school, the rise of pre-vet and ag business majors, the growing number of non-traditional and out-of-state students (from California to New York and Indiana), and why judging teams and hands-on greenhouse work are powerful ways to build confidence and real-world skills. 
If you care about who will be scouting your fields, writing your recs, and leading your ag businesses in 10–20 years, this episode is a great look at how OSU is training that next generation.

Top 10 takeaways

1. Teaching-focused, tenure-track agronomy roles are rare—and powerful.
   Dr. Haggard holds an 85% teaching appointment at a land-grant university, which she describes as a “unicorn” compared to more common research-heavy roles. That lets her invest deeply in core plant and soil courses that hundreds of students pass through every year.
2. Intro plant science at OSU is huge and foundational.
   Plant 1213 serves ~600 students a year, mostly freshmen, and often becomes their first exposure to plant science, agronomy and OSU’s ag culture. What happens in that class heavily influences which majors students choose—and whether they ever consider crops or soils.
3. College is about “learning how to learn,” not just memorizing content.
   Dr. Haggard uses her own career—soil scientist turned crop teacher—to show students that the real value of college is learning how to tackle new subjects and roles. If she can go from soil formation to crop growth stages on the job, they can pivot in their careers too.
4. Judging teams teach life skills: travel, teamwork and resilience.
   Beyond plant and seed ID, crops and soils judging expose students to long trips, new regions and tight-quarters team dynamics. For some, it’s their first time crossing the Mississippi River or even flying. Dr. Haggard jokes it’s a successful trip if everyone is still talking on the way home.
5. Today’s students juggle far more than class.
   Many students work full time, commute home on weekends and carry heavy concurrent credit loads from high school. That changes how instructors design assignments and study expectations—“go to the library all weekend” doesn’t match many students’ realities anymore.
6. OSU agronomy is no longer just rural Oklahoma farm kids.
   The department now attracts students from California, Oregon, Washington, Indiana, Missouri, Arkansas, Kentucky, New York and beyond, plus metro and suburban areas like Edmond and Oklahoma City. Many arrive with little or no farm background, which reshapes how faculty introduce basic equipment and practices.
7. Ag majors are fluid—pre-vet and ag business are big destinations.
   Dr. Haggard sees many students start in animal science or pre-vet and then migrate to ag business, economics or plant/soil majors once they experience different classes and discover where their interests really lie. Flexibility in degree paths is key.
8. Plain language and memory tricks matter in technical fields.
   Rather than keeping content “unattainable,” Dr. Haggard leans on layman’s terms and memorable phrases like “all cats manage kittens ammonium naturally” to help students retain complex ideas such as the lyotropic series in soil chemistry. Those small tools make a big difference for freshmen.
9. Extension and classroom teaching are two sides of the same coin.
   Josh points out that he loves teaching the same agronomic concepts to two very different audiences: landowners and consultants on the extension side, and students in the classroom. The goals and depth differ, but both are about helping people apply agronomy in real life.
10. Stable, passionate teachers anchor a department.
    Brian notes how important it is for a department to have long-term, high-quality teachers in core classes. With Dr. Haggard and Dr. Abbott, OSU Plant and Soil Sciences has a consistent foundation for teaching the “fundamentals” to every student who comes through the program.
     

Segment Timestamps

00:00–02:00 – Opening & introductions
02:00–06:30 – What Dr. Haggard teaches at OSU
06:30–11:30 – Her path into soils and agronomy
11:30–15:30 – First “real” job & learning crops on the fly
15:30–19:30 – Why she loves teaching
19:30–24:30 – Building a teaching-heavy career at a land-grant
24:30–29:30 – How Josh and Beatrix coordinate teaching
29:30–26:00 – Judging teams and what students gain
26:00–33:30 – How students and learning have changed
33:30–36:35 – Who OSU agronomy students are now & close

RedDirtAgronomy.com

Water is life—especially in the Oklahoma Panhandle. In this episode, the Red Dirt Agronomy team welcomes Dr. Sumit Sharma, OSU Extension’s irrigation specialist, for a wide-ranging discussion on how producers can stretch every drop. 
From pre-watering to planting decisions, Sharma explains how irrigation science is helping producers navigate declining well capacities and unpredictable weather while maintaining strong yields.

The conversation also explores cotton and corn management, growing degree days, and the future of sustainable production in Oklahoma’s High Plains. 
With insights on new technologies, the Master Irrigators program, and the resilience of prairie systems, this episode offers both practical advice and a hopeful look at how farmers can adapt without giving up on the land they love.

10 Takeaways

1. Efficient irrigation is key to sustaining Oklahoma Panhandle agriculture as wells decline.
2. Cotton can thrive with as little as 14 inches of irrigation when managed correctly.
3. Elevation impacts growing degree days, influencing which crops succeed.
4. Pre-watering is vital for establishing crops and managing weeds in sandy soils.
5. Short-maturity cotton varieties may improve harvest success before early freezes.
6. Data and technology (like soil moisture sensors) are transforming irrigation decisions.
7. Regenerative ag and cover crops are helping improve soil health under limited irrigation.
8. Pasture restoration is a long-term solution for lands losing water capacity.
9. The Master Irrigators Program offers farmers education, audits, and financial incentives to conserve water.
10. The Panhandle’s resilience—both ecological and cultural—shows that adaptation is possible even in drought-prone areas.

Timestamped Rundown

00:00–01:00 – Dave Deken opens Episode 426; sets up discussion on irrigation and underground water.
01:00–03:00 – Introductions: Dr. Brian Arnall, Dr. Josh Lofton, Dr. Raedan Sharry; light humor about breakfast and fieldwork.
03:30–05:00 – Dr. Sharma joins; recap of his background and move from the Panhandle to Stillwater.
05:00–07:00 – Overview of ongoing research: growing corn with limited water, regenerative agriculture, and cotton-water studies.
07:00–10:00 – Explanation of growing degree days (GDDs) and how elevation affects crop heat units in Oklahoma.
10:00–13:00 – Cotton challenges in high elevation areas; water use comparisons between cotton and corn.
13:00–17:00 – Discussion on cotton irrigation timing—why early stress can help root growth.
17:00–21:00 – Cotton varieties (Phytogen 205 vs. 411); balancing short vs. long maturity crops.
21:00–25:00 – GDD model reliability questioned; differences between Panhandle and southern climates.
25:00–29:00 – Deep dive on “pre-watering” in the Panhandle: how much, why, and when.
29:00–32:00 – Millet research and unexpected challenges (birds, pigweed, herbicide limits).
32:00–35:00 – Discussion on drought, soil loss, and reestablishing pasture for sustainability.
35:00–39:00 – Dr. Sharma details the Master Irrigators Program: training, incentives, and upcoming sessions in Altus.
39:00–40:30 – Closing remarks and links to RedDirtAgronomy.com.

RedDirtAgronomy.com