Articles tagged under: Jeff Jackson

Dry Weather Challenges for Alfalfa Growers

Published July 30, 2026

CROPLAN Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson says the crop got off to an early start before cooler weather slowed development. "Will it grow or just stay dormant or are we going to have a patchy, mangy ,squirrel-looking field out…

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More Forage, Less Inputs

Published March 19, 2026

With the dominance of the corn/soybean rotation, forage crops, like sorghum, have gone by the wayside. CROPLAN Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson sees benefits for bringing sorghum back to the rotation. Sorghum can be grown in the far north, but…

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Rains Boost Tonnage, But Lower Hay Quality

Published July 17, 2025

The alfalfa has experienced tremendous growth due to the persistent rains this summer. WinField United Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson says there are dairy operations that are already on the third cutting of green chop or silage. "When we…

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Alfalfa Navigates Relentless Rains

Published July 19, 2024

There's a big hay crop this year if growers can put up the crop between the rains. “People that are taking high moisture hay are taking the third crop right now,” said Jeff Jackson, forage and alfalfa specialist, CROPLAN. “People…

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Second Crop Alfalfa Looks Good

Published June 26, 2024

CROPLAN Forage and Alfalfa Specialist Jeff Jackson says alfalfa weevils are starting to fizzle out but scouting before cutting is recommended. “There are a few farmers that are getting really close or starting on a second crop alfalfa. If they…

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Scout Early and Often for Alfalfa Weevil

Published May 31, 2024

Large populations of alfalfa weevils are being seen this year. CROPLAN Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson credits the mild winter. "When it stays relatively nice we don't have as many bugs die over the winter," said Jackson. "That insect…

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First Crop Alfalfa is Maturing

Published May 31, 2023

Early spring weather was a back and forth warm and cold pattern. CROPLAN Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson says the weird early weather pattern means alfalfa could mature before flowering. "If you don't get the first cutting off, you…

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Drought Spurs on Silage Chopping

Published August 22, 2022

Croplan Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson says corn silage chopping is picking up in the drier parts of South Dakota. "It's no secret that there's pockets where the crop is moisture-challenged and there's been chopping that's started already where…

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Alfalfa Weevils Spotted in South Dakota

Published June 6, 2022

With the cool spring, alfalfa weevil larvae development has been slow. However, the larvae has been confirmed in South Dakota. WinField United Forage and Alfalfa Specialist Jeff Jackson says damage can vary by location. "Most years, if you're south of…

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Slow Warmup Delays Alfalfa Green Up

Published May 1, 2022

Croplan Genetics Alfalfa and Forage Specialist Jeff Jackson reminds farmers to check re-growth. "As fields green up, farmers can do stand assessments. That includes not only driving down the road and checking, but actually go dig plants and check root…

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