Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities

NMSU plans field day

With wheat prices near $9 per bushel, interest in growing wheat for grain harvest is greater now than it has been in many years New Mexico State University’s Agricultural Science Center at Clovis has scheduled the 2008 Wheat Field Day on May 28.

Special to the CNJ

Farmers in eastern New Mexico and West Texas can learn about wheat production and variety selection at the 2008 Wheat Field Day at New Mexico State University’s Agricultural Science Center at Clovis on May 28.

The field day begins with refreshments at 9 a.m. and will continue as long as necessary.

With wheat prices near $9 per bushel, interest in growing wheat for grain harvest is greater now than it has been in many years.

Wheat variety trial results from Texas and New Mexico locations will be presented. Research plots will be available for attendees to observe during the field tour.

The free event will include information on dryland and irrigated wheat grain and small grain forage trials conducted at the center. Because this year’s growing season has presented the challenge of exceptionally dry weather, growers may be particularly interested in the results of the dryland trials and which varieties have performed the best under such stressful conditions.

Marsalis is conducting a winter small grain forage variety trial that is looking at the relative production potential of wheat, rye, and triticale for ensiling purposes. Previous years’ results will be presented.

Sangu Angadi, crop stress physiologist, is conducting research on stubble management and the benefits associated with crop residues (e.g., wheat, sorghum). He will discuss these benefits and provide information on his research findings.

Marsalis also will give an overview of a new research project investigating the potential for wheat stubble residue to be used for cellulosic ethanol production. Also, Angadi will present information on ongoing research involving canola as an alternative crop for the region for use in biofuel production.

To get to the science center, travel 13 miles north of Clovis on N.M. 209 and turn west on N.M. 288. The center is 1.3 miles on the left past Palla Dairy.

For information, contact Marsalis at (575) 985-2292, or e-mail [email protected].