Small grains update
Dr. Jochum Wiersma, Extension small grains specialist
This presentation will provide an annual summary and interpretation of the spring wheat and winter rye variety trial results with a focus on variety selection and disease management. It will also include a deep dive into the concepts of absolute, attainable, affordable, and actual yield in light of the current commodity prices by sharing the results of Jose Bias’ Ph.D. thesis.
IPM update
Dr. Ian MacRae, IPM specialist
Details coming soon.
Nutrient and water management
Dr. Murad Elaffi, Postdoctoral research associate, agricultural water management
Details coming soon.
Sugarbeet disease management
Dr. Ashok Chanda, Extension plant pathologist
This presentation will cover information about identification and management of diseases of sugarbeet. For Cercospora Leaf spot, tank-mixing is essential to get adequate disease control. Full-season Rhizoctonia management involves using at-planting and postemergence fungicides. It is important to identify Fusarium infested fields for future management. We will also discuss minor diseases showing up in our area.
Waterhemp control in the Red River Valley
Dr. Tom Peters, Extension sugarbeet agronomist
Glyphosate-resistant waterhemp was identified by sugarbeet growers as the most troublesome weed control challenge at every grower seminar in 2025. Our local waterhemp observations mirrored results collected nationally according to the 2025 Weed Science Society of America (WSSA) broadleaf crops weed survey. Waterhemp control in sugarbeet is challenging due to limited control options. Thus, an integrated waterhemp control program starting with zero tolerance for weed escapes in the crop sequence has to be a priority.