Smaller producers often simply accept as fact that their production costs are going to be higher than their larger counterparts. However, there are ways to become more cost-effective and profitable.

Here is a five-step system for managing hidden costs. While this example focuses on weed control, the system can be applied across many farming and business management areas.

“I’m an optimist, but I have seen fields overrun by kochia, and last year we learned that we have Palmer amaranth and waterhemp,” says Dr. Albert Adjesiwor, University of Idaho Extension weed scientist in Kimberly.

Every day, farmers deal with variables out of their control, from weather to mechanical issues to weed pressure. In recent weeks, a new variable has affected many U.S. growers.

The most effective weed control programs for summer annual weeds in many crops include herbicides that deliver long-lasting, residual weed control.

Today, drones have the ability to spray herbicides, pesticides and fungicides at 8 feet off the ground. They also can spread solids like seeds, bugs and compost. They do it quietly, quickly and precisely.

There is a crucial yet often underestimated role of pollinators, particularly honeybees, in forage crop production. While domestic and native colonies face growing challenges, farmers can implement practical strategies to preserve and enhance pollinator populations.

People can argue about anything, including the best definition of a weed. However, every land manager I know can agree about their loathing for invasive thistles. Unfortunately, a new species has made its way to North America and found an ideal habitat on the stark hillsides of Hells Canyon.