Connection Summer 2013 | Page 15

ANSWER PLOT AGRONOMY Providing answers Answer Plot arms growers with decision-making comparisons n By Rachael Eilts Photos by Lisa Morcom o two fields are the same. Because of this, producers cannot expect the same farming practices to have the same results on every piece of land. Winfield’s Answer Plot program provides a solution and a valuable resource when it comes to producers’ decision-making. Fine-tuning in crop inputs and placements strategies is the key to transforming good yields into great yields. There are more than 180 Answer Plot sites, each covering 15 to 20 acres and serving as a local crop research center for area growers. These sites combine to offer more than two million points of national, regional and local agronomic data, according to Winfield Solutions. This information is invaluable to producers when making cropping decisions. “The Answer Plot is like an outdoor science lab,” said Ryan Jung, agronomy manag- “The Answer Plot is like an outdoor science lab.” — Ryan Jung agronomy manager er. “We can compare varieties, seeding rates and depths, fertilizer rates and chemical trials. We can even simulate problems growers are having to help them resolve any issues.” Lisa Morcom, an agronomist, said the Answer Plot allows growers to actually see the results of various combinations of cropping decisions. “We look at different hybrids, herbicide combinations, plant populations and planting depth,” she said. At the Answer Plot, producers can see the difference changing an input or practice has on the crop. This side-by-side comparison helps them evaluate what will work best in their own fields. “Our program helps growers determine the best crop management practices aimed to deliver maximum results from their field, whether it involves protecting high yield areas or attempting to increase yields on their toughest acres,” said Kevin Eye, Answer Plot program director. “We’re dedicated to helping growers get the most from every acre, which includes arming growers with information on all aspects of crop production.” For questions or more information on the local Answer Plot, call or stop by United Ag and visit with one of the agronomy experts on staff. In addition to viewing the crop variations, producers are encouraged to bring to the table any issues or concerns they may be experiencing, said Morcom. This allows for a more personalized experience. Morcom said United Ag also offers VIP tours to zero in on any particular area of the Answer Plot. Robert Cossar, the regional agronomist for Winfield, is available as a resource to area producers. He goes over the Answer Plot and its results, and is available to field any questions. Winfield offers the Answer Plot program in an effort to assist growers with decisionmaking and help them get the best yield they can out of each of their fields. Robert Cossar, the regional agronomist for Winfield, is another valuable resource to producers. 15