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Microscopic Worms Can Be Huge Problem

Soybean cyst nematodes (SCN) are microscopic, but they can be a huge problem for producers.
 
They're little round worms that infest soybean roots, dwarfing plants and damaging yield by 20 to 30 per cent. The nematode not only goes into the root, but alters the cells in the root of the plant, so as to obtain nutrients. As the female nematode develops in the root system, she produces about 150 eggs, which she holds internally. When she dies, she retains the eggs, but puts up a hardy, black coating. This coating allows the cyst to survive drought, ultra-violet light, and freezing.
 
While SCN hasn't been seen in Manitoba yet, it has been found in North Dakota, not far from the Canadian border. The problem with these nematodes is once they get into the soil, they don't go away, meaning producers would have to alter crop rotation, switch to a resistant soybean variety, or use a nematicide.
 
"A critical thing is to prevent soil that's been contaminated with this nematode from coming into the province," says Mario Tenuta, Canada Research Chair in Applied Soil Ecology with the University of Manitoba. "One key area is used farm equipment from the United States, to make sure it's clean before it comes into Canada. It's also good to practice good bio-security between fields in Manitoba, so for producers to clean their equipment through power-washing, that's a great way."
 
Source : SteinbachOnline

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Agriculture Priorities - Teresa Ibach

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While we were attending that press conference at the Nebraska Capitol, we had the opportunity to catch up with Nebraska State Senator Teresa Ibach.