JIM STORDAHL
Manure has value for crops
Manure has tremendous value in crop production that goes beyond the usual N-P-K needs of the crop. While the value of manure is usually calculated using these typical elements, manure also provides most of the necessary micronutrients. This is why deficiencies seldom show up on farms that routinely use manure.By JIM STORDAHL , March 17, 2010
Value of gardens
A small vegetable garden is not usually a financial endeavor. Most folks keep gardens for flavorful produce, the availability of fresh veggies, to control production practices and perhaps to get some exercise. Seldom do gardeners toil because it’s a good financial move.By JIM STORDAHL Ag extension agent , March 12, 2010
Soybean cyst nematode discovered 
Just when you thought you were getting soybean aphid management figured out, a new pest has make its appearance in the area that may make aphids seem like a minor inconvenience. The soybean cyst nematode (SCN) is one of the most destructive pests affecting soybeans in the United States.
By Jim Stordahl , February 18, 2010
Locally grown foods a hot trend nationwide
Again this past year, locally produced foods was one of the hottest nationwide trends in foods, one of which is farm friendly or local foods. Indeed, this is good news that can have a positive impact on farmers, consumers and even our rural communities.
By Jim Stordahl , February 11, 2010
Why earthworms are so important to soil
Have you ever wondered why some farmers are adamant about their earthworm populations? Every year, they go out to their fields armed with a shovel and dig holes to count their numbers. What is so important about those little worms?
By Jim Stordahl , January 08, 2010
Tips to reduce frozen septic systems
It may be a white Christmas, but not by much. Winters without snow cover often raises concern of frozen septic systems and fearful visions of mad dashes to an outhouse, so snow to shovel should be considered a winter blessing.
By Jim Stordahl , January 01, 2010
Keeping poinsettias pretty, longer
We have arrived at that time of the year when the gourds and calico corn centerpieces that decorated homes for the autumn season are exchanged for the bright colors of the Christmas season.
By Jim Stordahl , December 11, 2009
Cash rental agreements; another arrow in the quiver
Nearly every week of the year, I receive questions on land rental values. Historically, the guidelines have been relatively consistent on land used exclusively for agricultural purposes.
By Jim Stordahl , November 27, 2009
Dealing with moldy corn woes
Recently there have been numerous reports of “moldy corn” across Minnesota. The late harvest, high moisture corn, and continuing wet conditions have contributed to this problem.
By Jim Stordahl , November 13, 2009
Challenging fall harvest leads to questions about soybean drying and winter storage
A challenging soybean harvest is creating many questions related to storage and drying.
By Jim Stordahl , October 23, 2009
Soybean handling and storage
Soybeans are usually traded on a 13 percent moisture basis, so it is to the farmer’s advantage to harvest, store, and sell soybeans as close to 13 percent moisture (wet basis) as possible. Soybeans that are wetter than 13 percent moisture are likely to mold under warm conditions and buyers usually apply shrink factors and drying charges when wet beans are delivered.
By Jim Stordahl , October 16, 2009
Post-harvest tips for later maturing corn
The cool growing season has delayed corn maturity creating concern among corn growers. The biggest challenge with corn is removing the excess moisture after harvest. Last year, many acres remained in the field until the kernel moisture was low enough for a practical harvest.
By Jim Stordahl , October 09, 2009
How to stop spread of cluster flies
Over the past few weeks, we have been fending off a bumper crop of large, often slow moving flies. These flies are known as cluster flies, a name that describes their habit of clustering in large numbers inside attics.
By Jim Stordahl , September 25, 2009
The arrival of home-invading bugs
The boxelder bugs are gathering on the outside of some homes in large numbers, and the multi-colored Asian lady beetles will probably arrive soon.
By Jim Stordahl , September 18, 2009
Solving fruit fly puzzle can be tricky
A cracked tomato, an overripe banana, an unrinsed beverage can in the recycling bin or a damp mop used to wipe up a punch spill: all are an open invitation to those pesky fruit flies!
By Jim Stordahl , September 04, 2009
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