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American Ag Today- 1/27/25

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January 27, 2025

TLDR: Discussion on navigating tight input margins with Ryan Hunt, technical service manager in North Dakota for FMC, featured on American Ag Today podcast.

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In this episode of American Ag Today, host Jesse Allen speaks with Ryan Hunt, the Technical Service Manager for FMC in North Dakota, to explore the pressing issues farmers face as they prepare for the 2025 planting season. With tight margins and economic uncertainty, understanding input costs and effective management strategies is crucial for producers.

Understanding the Current Agricultural Landscape

As the 2025 season approaches, concerns over crop prices and input costs loom large. Farmers are urged to closely monitor their bottom line and consider key areas where cutting costs could have longer-term repercussions.

Key Challenges Facing Farmers

  • Tight Margins: The ag economy signals a time of caution, prompting producers to scrutinize their spending.
  • Input Costs: Significant concerns revolve around rising costs for pesticides and other essentials, impacting profit margins.

The Importance of Weed Control

Ryan emphasizes the critical role of pesticide programs even when budgets are tight. While pesticide costs may appear to be a small fraction of overall spending, the consequences of skimping on effective weed control are significant:

  • Long-Term Costs: Initial savings from using cheaper or unbranded products can lead to exponential costs later due to weed resistance and infestations.
  • Resistant Weeds: The rise of weeds like waterhemp and kosher requires durable and effective control methods to prevent long-term issues.

Recommended Practices

  • Don't Skimp on Residual Programs: Maintaining a robust residual herbicide program is essential for early-season weed control, especially given the threats posed by herbicide-resistant weeds.
  • Utilize Effective Products: Products like Authority, Anthem, and Spartan are highlighted for their long-lasting effectiveness and multiple modes of action, allowing farmers more flexibility with timely applications.

Timely Management and Application

Ryan stresses that effective weed control isn't just about what products to use, but also about how and when to use them.

Timeliness is Key

  • Application Timing: Proper timing of herbicide applications can ensure optimal effectiveness, preventing weed establishment before crops can be properly treated.
  • Planning Ahead: With an increasing number of acres to cover and busier schedules, having a sound management plan is vital. Farmers should prepare ahead to ensure timely applications while efficiently managing their resources.

Monitoring Emerging Threats

Another critical discussion point is the emerging threats to crops from pests and diseases.

New Challenges in Pest Management

  • Warm-Weather Pests: Changes in climate patterns are leading to an increase in pest pressures, particularly in Southeast North Dakota. Farmers need proactive strategies to manage these pests effectively.
  • Protecting Seed Early: Utilizing preventative measures like Capture for other predicated pests can help safeguard early germination and seed survival, ensuring a successful growth cycle.

Final Thoughts for Producers

As the podcast concludes, Ryan encourages all farmers to plan diligently as they move into the planting season:

  • Stay Informed: Engage with local FMC representatives or retailers for tailored advice and up-to-date solutions.
  • Focus on Safety: Prioritize safety throughout winter and spring to ensure a successful planting season.

Conclusion

The American Ag Today episode featuring Ryan Hunt provides valuable insights into managing tight input margins as farmers gear up for the 2025 planting season. By embracing effective weed and pest management strategies and ensuring timely applications, producers can better navigate the challenges ahead while safeguarding their economic viability.


This blog summary highlights essential strategies discussed in the podcast, aimed at helping farmers optimize their operations amidst an evolving agricultural landscape.

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