WSU oilseed workshop in Odessa January 21, 2016

Washington State University Extension and the WSU Oilseed Cropping Systems (WOCS) project are hosting workshops about canola and other oilseed production, marketing and end-use at three locations in late January: Colfax, Odessa and Dayton. Topics that are specific to each region were selected based on input from regional growers, industry and university faculty. Depending on the workshop location, crops covered will include winter and spring canola, winter and spring rapeseed, mustard and flax, and how those oilseeds will fit into existing rotations. General sessions in the morning will shift to breakout sessions with interactive discussions in the afternoon.

The benefits of oilseed crops in a cereal rotation are well-documented. Bruce Petty of Asotin, Wash. notes that “being able to have a deep-rooted plant that can break compaction layers and having the ability to combat grassy weeds and break disease cycles is very appealing to me. The soil after canola is so much more mellow, as if a subsoiler has gone through the field.” Denver Black, who farms near Mansfield, Wash., shared similar thoughts. “Canola affords us a rotational cash crop, which is great for the soil and reduces risk in the markets. The roots seem to penetrate the hardpan about 30% of the time. We are hoping that reduced tillage and continual use of canola will give us some lasting gains.”

Regional oilseed and livestock producers, industry representatives and WSU, OSU and UI research and Extension faculty will be sharing their experiences and perspectives and encouraging interactive discussion throughout the day. Topics include crop and herbicide rotation; risk management; field diagnostics; canola for grazing and silage; marketing and sourcing; whole-farm economics; nutrient and water use; insects and diseases; oilseed meal in livestock rations, and more.

Current and future oilseed producers, livestock producers, crop input suppliers and advisors, oilseed industry representatives, researchers and supporting agency personnel are all invited to attend. CCA and pesticide recertification credits will be available.

The workshops are being sponsored and supported by Washington State University, USDA-ARS and local agribusinesses. Sponsor opportunities and exhibit space are available by contacting Karen Sowers at 509-396-5936/ksowers@wsu.edu.

Registration and agendas are available for each workshop at http://css.wsu.edu/biofuels/2016-wsu-oilseed-workshops/. Registration is $20 and includes lunch and refreshments.