We discussed the current state of wheat crops in Oklahoma and the exciting new wheat variety, "Orange Blossom," developed by OSU's Wheat Improvement Team. Dr. Carver's insights into wheat breeding and genetics are particularly enlightening, especially regarding the balance between innovation and practical application for farmers.

Oklahoma Crop Conditions: The fluctuating temperatures and moisture levels have created a mixed bag for wheat crops across Oklahoma. Some areas are showing decent growth, while others are struggling due to early freezes.
It's crucial for farmers to monitor their fields closely and adjust management practices accordingly to mitigate stress and optimize growth.

Introducing "Orange Blossom": Dr. Carver introduced the new wheat variety, "Orange Blossom," which is inspired by the successful "Double Stop" variety.
This new variety aims to maintain high yield potential while offering herbicide tolerance, making it a valuable option for farmers seeking improved weed control.

Advancements in Wheat Breeding: The use of DNA markers and double haploids has significantly accelerated the wheat breeding process.
These techniques allow for more efficient and effective development of new varieties, ensuring that farmers have access to the best possible genetics.

Market Potential of Hybrid Wheat: We discussed the potential market for hybrid wheat and the challenges associated with its adoption.
Dr. Carver emphasized that significant yield improvements are necessary to encourage farmers to transition from traditional varieties to hybrids, highlighting the importance of economic viability in agricultural innovation.

Importance of Certified Seed: The conversation underscored the benefits of using certified seed to ensure genetic purity and maximize yield potential.
Investing in certified seed can provide farmers with a reliable source of high-quality genetics, leading to improved crop performance and profitability.

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Wheat production has evolved dramatically since the 1960s. New seed technologies and farming practices have transformed yields and quality. Embracing change is key to thriving in Oklahoma's agriculture.

What We Learned From Our Chat With Don:

- The transition from older wheat varieties to newer ones has significantly improved yield and quality.
- Precision farming techniques, such as auto-steering and section control, have transformed wheat farming efficiency.
- Don's seed cleaning business illustrates the entrepreneurial spirit within agriculture, stemming from a personal need.
- Community ties and educational contributions play a vital role in the agricultural sector.
- Shifts to no-till farming practices have become standard, promoting sustainability in wheat production.
Don's experiences as a football referee provide a unique perspective on community involvement and resilience.

Wheat Varieties

Don discussed the transition from older wheat varieties like Newton and Triumph 64 to newer ones such as Double Stop and High Cotton. This shift has led to notable improvements in both yield and quality, showcasing the importance of innovation in agriculture.

Technological Advancements

The introduction of precision farming techniques, including auto-steering and section control, has revolutionized wheat farming. These advancements allow farmers to operate more efficiently, reducing waste and increasing productivity.

Seed Cleaning Business

Don's venture into seed cleaning began with a personal need and grew into a successful business. His story illustrates the entrepreneurial spirit that drives many in the agricultural sector, highlighting how personal experiences can lead to innovative solutions.

Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, Don shared anecdotes about community events, such as waffle parties, that strengthen relationships among local farmers. This sense of community is vital in agriculture, fostering collaboration and support.

Important Quote from Don Schieber

"I don't like making money off of other people's disasters." - Don Schieber reflecting on global wheat markets.

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In this episode, we talked with Jerry May about:

The Evolution of Precision Agriculture: Explore the shift from basic soil sampling to advanced data collection and analysis.

Custom Farming Services: Understand the rise of custom planting and application services in response to high equipment costs and an aging farmer demographic.

Crop Rotation and Diversification: Learn about the benefits of diverse crop rotations, including winter canola and cotton, to enhance yields and manage risks.

Hear from Jerry May, founder of May Precision Ag, as he shares his journey from working with John Deere to establishing a successful custom farming business. We also discuss how market dynamics, such as cattle prices and wheat production, influence farmers' decisions.

Key takeaways include:

The average age of U.S. farmers is around 71 years, driving the trend towards custom farming services.

Wheat yields can increase by 15-20% when rotated with winter canola.

Don't miss out on this informative episode! If you find value in our discussions, please like this video and subscribe to our channel for more insights on agriculture and farming practices. Share your thoughts in the comments below!

For more resources mentioned in this episode, check out our website.

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