• 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

(AUSTIN, Texas) — The Texas Department of Agriculture issued an emergency quarantine Feb. 5 to protect against the two-spotted cotton leafhopper. The quarantine inspections help monitor pests that could be introduced into Texas from out-of-state agricultural shipments.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said the quarantine would help safeguard the cotton, nursery and ornamental sectors.

“This pest is a ticking bomb for Texas agriculture,” Miller said. “Cotton fuels our rural economy —we can’t let it ravage yields. We’ve contained it so far, but this quarantine buys time to outsmart and crush it, protecting farmers, ranchers, and growers.”

Screwworm photo from Texas Farm Bureau

Harvest Brigade and Industry History

The origins of modern-day custom harvesting in the U.S. are traced back to World War II's Harvest Brigade. Initiated by an individual from Massey Harris, this movement involved 500 combines harvesting a million acres to address labor shortages during wartime. This historical endeavor is credited with starting the Harvest Run, a seasonal practice where harvesting begins in the south and progresses northward as the seasons change. This tradition continues to attract international interest and offers a unique harvest experience in the U.S.

David Misener gives a rundown of the USCHI Convention schedule.

The convention spans several days with several organized events, including an H2A day and the changing of the gavel at its conclusion. The importance of providing feedback and compliments after the event is also emphasized as a means of ensuring continuous improvement.

Custom Harvester David Misener discusses his experience attending the U.S. Custom Harvesters Association's annual convention in Elk City, Oklahoma. He details his journey to the event, describing the change in weather and the various activities he was involved in, including setting up the event and participating in meetings.

The association boasts over 500 membership names, comprised of various types of members including associates, regular, and retired members, highlighting their long-standing involvement. The convention spans several days with several organized events, including an H2A day and the changing of the gavel at its conclusion.

The importance of providing feedback and compliments after the event is also emphasized as a means of ensuring continuous improvement.