Laura: Strong yields in Western Kansas and Colorado
For nearly two weeks, we had crews scattered across western Kansas and they put in the hours to get an incredible wheat crop out. Showers and storms continued to follow us to this part of the state creating harvest delays. There were late starts and early shutdowns due to popup showers and thunderstorm systems. So much so, that ground conditions started to be a consideration, which is rare. These factors started creating stress knowing crops were quickly ripening in Colorado and Montana.
It was hard to cuss the rain, however, because this region has been so dry. We return to western Kansas for our fall harvest, and it’s been ages since the corn has looked this good. One of our farmers told us they have up to four feet of soil profile moisture, and more rain has fallen since we’ve left the area. Having a respectable crop would be huge out there, not just financially, but for mental health as well.
The wheat was really strong in western Kansas. This was thanks to cooler temperatures late spring and ample moisture as the crop was in its later stages of maturity.
It’s always fun to see whole fields, or pockets within fields, with shockingly high yields. However, it’s really cool to see a high average across an entire farm. One western Kansas location saw a nearly 70-bushel average across their dryland acres. This is outstanding for this arid area.
Gradually, part of the crew had to ship out for northeast Colorado. One thing that has improved over the last several years is the standability of the crop. I’ve written several articles over my years with AAWH that highlights the challenges of wheat lodging due to sawfly. Continued advancement in genetics and other practices have kept more wheat upright. This makes everyone happy and puts a lot less stress on the combine operator.
Crop yields were strong out here with some nearly seeing a 60-bushel average. No surprise, given the trend of the season, showers and storms followed us to Colorado too!
Another highlight from our time at this part of the High Plains was community. Over the years we have spent both summer and fall in western Kansas. The longevity has allowed us to meet some really great people. It’s also afforded us some important insider information to thrive in these parts. For instance, you better grab one of Ms. Ramona’s pies the first time through the potluck line, or it may not be back when you return for dessert!
In addition to enjoying chocolate meringue pie after church, the kids had a blast swimming with friends and catching a movie at the locally run theater. I had fun getting to catch a few early morning workouts with friends and catching up with others in the community. Team members Paul and Michael, the kids and I also had a great time participating in a mini triathlon. Interactions like these were a boost to mid-season morale and we are ready to tackle the last half of the summer run!
