November 2012 Archives

In a year when tremendous variability was observed within fields as well as among areas of the state, information from replicated trials like the University of Minnesota trials is particularly valuable.

University of Minnesota Extension has hired Jane Johnson as their new director of development.

Johnson will raise gifts and contributions that support research, education and outreach initiatives in areas of environment, food and agriculture, communities, families and youth throughout the state.

Many of the foods found on a traditional Thanksgiving dinner plate are mainstays of Minnesota farms. Minnesota leads the nation in production of turkey, red potatoes and green peas and has contributed to great advancements in wheat, butter, honey, and fruit and vegetable production.

The Forest Pest First Detector Program was honored receiving the Carol Mortensen Invasive Species Award for Team Achievement, presented at the Upper Midwest Invasive Species Conference, in La Crosse, WI on Oct. 30, 2012. This award from the Minnesota Invasive Species Advisory Council recognizes the contributions of an individual or team devoted to managing invasive species. It is presented in honor of Carol Mortensen, a pioneer on invasive species work in Minnesota.

Minnesota remains the number one producer of turkeys in the United States with 46.5 million turkeys raised last year. It has been a challenging year for producers with feed costs so much higher than last year, and this trend of increasing feeds costs is expected to continue. During this time of high feed costs, profitability can hinge on the turkeys achieving performance as close as possible to their genetic potential.