By Andi Anderson
Michigan wheat farmer Nick Suwyn has emerged victorious at the 2023 National Wheat Yield Awards, receiving double honors during the awards reception held at the 2024 Commodity Classic in Houston on Feb. 28. Suwyn, who operates farms in Allegan and Barry counties, secured second place in the winter wheat irrigated division with an impressive yield of 171.71 bushels per acre, showcasing the effectiveness of DF Seeds DF-131.
In addition to his notable yield award, Suwyn's entry earned him a national second-place quality award, adding to his accolades in the soft winter wheat category. These prestigious awards, sponsored by the National Wheat Foundation, recognize excellence and innovation in wheat production.
Suwyn attributes his success to strategic agricultural practices, including the application of additional irrigation during dry months and precise nitrogen fertilizer management based on tissue testing of wheat plant leaves throughout the growing season. The recognition underscores Suwyn's commitment to achieving high yields and maintaining crop quality standards.
The National Wheat Foundation sponsors these awards annually, encouraging farmers to showcase their achievements and advancements in wheat production. Entries for the 2024 Winter Wheat contest are open until May 15, providing an opportunity for farmers to participate and demonstrate their prowess in wheat cultivation.
In other agricultural news in Michigan, the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University is organizing the Excellence in Insect Science Symposium on May 16-17. The symposium aims to explore insect-focused solutions for climate resilience, one health, and STEM education. Participants will engage in collaborative idea-generation sessions, fostering innovative approaches to address global challenges using insect science.
Michigan State University Extension is hosting a free webinar, "Co-ops 101: How Cooperatives Work and the Basic Steps of Development," on March 13. The webinar will provide insights into the cooperative business model, its principles, and the steps involved in cooperative development. Participants will gain knowledge about different cooperative examples and assess whether a cooperative is suitable for their business.
Nick Suwyn's achievements and the upcoming events underscore Michigan's commitment to excellence in agriculture, fostering innovation and collaboration within the farming community.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-ygrek
Categories: Michigan, Crops, Wheat