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Soybean Production in Arkansas
Response to the Challenges of 2006
Re-Cap of 2005:
2005 Arkansas planted 3.1 million acres and harvested 3.03 million acres with
an average yield of 34 bushels per acre. Acreage has pretty much stabilized
to this number for the past 4-5 years.
- This was down 5 ½ to 6 bushels from 2004 (39.5 bushel average and
new state record).
- Major influences on yield reduction:
- The weather in 2005 had obvious negative impacts both directly and
indirectly.
- Lack of rainfall in late-April through May directly impacted the germination
and emergence of most these acres which has historically comprised as
much as 40-60% of the acres (1.5 to 1.6 million acres).
- High temperatures throughout the reproductive stages added to the stress
observed from lack of moisture.
- Indirectly the soybean crop was negatively impacted by the lack of
attention given to the crop or delays in plating. Meaning, many diversified
producers spent a majority of time and resources early-season on crops
such as rice and cotton, while the soybean crop either suffered or was
planted later than normal.
- Weather conditions during the fall did not appear to negatively influence
harvest rate or efficiency.
- Production costs were directly influenced by increasing fuel prices, but
not to the degree observed in other commodities.
Outlook for 2006:
- Early estimations obtained from a number of producers this winter indicate
that soybean acres will definitely increase. Most of these acres will come
out of both corn and rice.
- Estimates indicate that we could see a 10-20% increase in acres (300,000
to 600,000 acres). These decisions have not been finalized, but do look promising
based on current commodity, fertilizer, and fuel prices.
How Can We Save Production Costs
During the winter meetings, I have stressed to our producers many areas in
which we can save money on this year’s crop and these include:
- Many fields are currently in good shape. This is due to the dry fall/winter
which allowed for a majority of field work to be accomplished and we certainly
did not “rut” any fields during harvest. This situation lends
itself to implementing a stale seedbed approach or some other minimum tillage
operations. This may be especially needed to maintain soil moisture for germination
and emergence.
- Properly calibrating planting equipment for accurate seeding rates. This
is the first cost that many producers incur and can have a direct impact on
profit margins. Current research can assist producers in saving as much as
$18-22 per acre.
- Only use inputs that are cost effective or will protect yield potential.
Each year producers are persuaded into using crop inputs that do not warrant
use. Many are told these products will pay for themselves and are guaranteed
yield improvements. Research at Arkansas and other land-grant institutions
do not support these claims. Inputs (foliar fertilizers, fungicides, etc.)
should only be used if a deficiency exists or if pests are at economic thresholds.
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