• The discussion with Mike Bashutski, based in Saskatchewan, revolves around the current state of agriculture affected by dry weather and ongoing wildfires, especially in the panhandle area of Oklahoma. This situation has resulted in significant losses, with wildfires consuming around 250,000 acres, impacting wheat and pasture lands, and affecting cattle grazing areas. Although there were reports of injuries to firefighters, no loss of human life has been reported.

• Recent weather events, including snowstorms in Alberta extending to parts of Saskatchewan, are discussed. The snow provides temporary moisture, but its effectiveness is limited as snow in the region may not settle long enough to benefit the soil due to warm spells that cause it to melt or evaporate. The warm weather conditions interspersed with snow have created temporary wet conditions in some areas, indicating a possibility for moisture retention in the soil.

From the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, if you are a livestock producer impacted by the wildfires in Beaver, Texas, or Woodward counties, please ensure that you're in contact with your county FSA office. Before a wildfire, maintain detailed records, use clear and distinguishable IAD methods, take land use precautions to discourage fire spread, and consider corralling animals to help with off-farm movement if necessary. During a wildfire, ensure the safety of yourself and your family, allow for animal movement if safe to do so.

Communicate with first responders and neighbors to help out livestock on your property, and use emergency identification methods, like spray paint, etc.

After a wildfire, document livestock losses, practice humane euthanasia methods, and dispose of carcasses if needed, accept emotional and mental health assistance, and apply for federal assistance.

Those are some tips from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, in this devastating time of wildfire in Oklahoma. Follow more on that story on our HarvestUSA Facebook page, or on our website by the same name.

And if you are an FFA supporter, the time is here again. The Tractor Supply Ccompany Paper Emblem Sale is back. Stop by your local store and grab a paper emblem at checkout from February 19th to March 2nd. Every emblem you purchase directly supports FFA, a small gesture that makes a big impact.

From Kansas Wheat