Harvest has begun for Hannaford, North Dakota farmer Dennis Haugen. So far, the quality of the small grains is acceptable in the east central part of the state. “Moisture in the wheat is around 14 percent, along with nice protein and test weight. We’ve also harvested rye and barley for the cover crop market.” While quality hasn’t been a problem for Haugen, that isn’t the case in other areas. The rainfall and other weather conditions throughout the growing season are becoming a factor come harvest time. “I’m hearing of falling number problems, sprouting, ergot, vomitoxin; you name it,” says Haugen. “The ergot is in southeast North Dakota. Sprouting is mostly in two-row barley, and I’ve heard of 100 percent damage in some cases.” Listen to more.
