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Future of farm equipment may be smaller

The evolution of ag equipment has been massive over the past few generations. But things beyond the machinery itself have had some of the biggest impacts on farmers.

“Auto steer has probably added years to my career,” southeast Iowa farmer Stan Nelson said.

The advancement of technology that has allowed farmers to take their focus off simply holding the steering wheel has been a stress-saver for Nelson, not just mentally but physically. Keeping the planter straight can be a challenge, particularly when winds or bumps push the tractor around, but also when looking back to make sure nothing is going wrong during the planting process.

Safety is something Kent Shannon, University of Missouri Extension field specialist in ag engineering, said has been one of the biggest growth aspects of ag equipment in his years working in the field.

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Do Cold Temps Impact Emerging Corn & Soybeans? | Pioneer Agronomy

Video: Do Cold Temps Impact Emerging Corn & Soybeans? | Pioneer Agronomy

A cold snap swept across west central Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, bringing frost, fog, and temperatures dipping into the 20s—raising urgent questions about early crop damage.

Pioneer Agronomist Eric Rice breaks down what those overnight temperatures could mean for emerged corn and soybeans, how to assess frost injury, and why patience is key before making any replant decisions. Learn the critical differences between corn and soybean growing points, what cosmetic vs. serious damage looks like, and how last week’s high winds may also be influencing what you’re seeing in the field.

Watch for:

• Frost thresholds for early-season crop damage

• Why corn may be more resilient than it looks

• Soybean growth stages and frost susceptibility

• How to evaluate brittle stems and discolored tissue

• Why waiting 4–5 days before assessing stand loss matters

• When to contact your local Pioneer agronomist or sales representative