Ron Smith

1 day ago | farmprogress.com | Ron Smith

Grain sorghum, in addition to its importance as a valuable rotation option, also offers a relatively low-cost production system. In a tough agricultural economy, however, even grain sorghum growers might be looking for ways to cut costs. “With the environment we're in now, considering that commodity prices in general are low, everyone is looking to cut costs where they can,” says Brent Bean, director of agronomy for the United Sorghum Checkoff Program, Lubbock, Texas.

1 week ago | farmprogress.com | Ron Smith

With production costs in the $1,600 per-acre range, the margin for rice producers is razor thin. They depend upon a ratoon crop. Cutting inputs is a risky proposition, according to an Extension agronomist. Ron Smith, Contributing WriterTexas rice farmers planted 65% to 75% of their anticipated 142,000 acres under near-ideal conditions—an open planting window followed by soaking rain. Planting is expected to be completed by late April.

2 weeks ago | farmprogress.com | Ron Smith

As harvest nears, Southwest wheat production faces many challenges, including drought, weeds in thin wheat stands and low vernalization. Ron Smith, Contributing WriterAs the Southwest wheat crop moves into the reproductive stage, farmers hope for more rain, which, until last weekend, seemed reluctant to oblige. While last week's rainfall brought relief, drought poses the most serious hardship to the 2025 wheat crop. Pockets of freeze damage and vernalization issues create additional concerns.

2 weeks ago | farmprogress.com | Ron Smith

April showers may have brought temporary relief, but Southwest producers will need more rain to push the crop to harvest. Ron Smith, Contributing WriterEarly April rainfall across parts of Oklahoma and Texas provided much-needed moisture to wheat, but the crop will need more to reach harvest. Extension small grains specialists Amanda Silva, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, and Brandon Gerrish, Texas A&M AgriLife, College Station, say the rain will help maintain current yield potential.

2 weeks ago | farmprogress.com | Ron Smith

As sure as wind will gust across the West Texas plains in springtime, folks up there will plant cotton, even in years rife with challenge, since cotton is crucial for the agricultural economy. This year is no exception. Shawn Holladay, a Dawson County farmer and cotton industry advocate, remains optimistic despite challenges from weather, low commodity prices, high input costs, and the uncertainty of a timely farm bill. “Our plan for 2025 is survival,” Holladay said.