A physical map of a genome shows the physical locations of genes and other DNA sequences of interest. Scientists use them to identify and isolate genes that are responsible for different traits, such as disease resistance and days to maturity.

South Dakota State University scientists must develop varieties of wheat that can tolerate drought, according to molecular biologist Jai Rohila, assistant professor of biology and microbiology. That is the key to making agriculture sustainable in the face of climate change.

By: Bob Fanning, Plant Pathology Field Specialist

By Bob Fanning

Plant Pathology Field Specialist

 

By Bob Fanning

Research suggests a possible way to help maintain beneficial species in agroecosystems.

Consider joining the network

by Padmanaban Krishnan

Groups aim -- to raise wheat yield potential 50%

Results shed light on wheat's DNA in a way that will help breeders develop hardier varieties by linking genes to key traits, such as disease resistance and drought tolerance.
 

Dwayne Beck

Wheat breeding is analogous to a poker game where the object is to obtain the best hand (variety) possible.

Traits, Yield Averages, and Variety Recommendations for 2013

Approximately 1 percent of Americans have celiac disease and another 6 percent are estimated to suffer from gluten sensitivity, yet many others believe going gluten-free leads to good health.
 

Winter wheat producers have been faced with planting into dry soil before, although this may be one of the most widespread occurrences in recent history. There are three options to consider, each with their advantages and risks.

Fungicide seed treatments build the foundation for a healthy plant and are recommended.

Reports and conversations indicate a number of farmers intend to plant winter wheat into failed corn fields this fall. Producers following corn with winter wheat this year will be dealing with one of three scenarios, each with their pros and cons, but also variations within each situation.

Winter Wheat Meeting in Draper, SD

Mark your calendars and plan to attend the “Winter Wheat Meeting” at the auditorium in Draper, SD, beginning at 6:30 pm, Thursday, August 16. We will start the meeting with a meal prepared by the Draper United Methodist Women and sponsored by area agribusinesses.

The challenge of profitable wheat production involves a complex matrix of genetics, weather, farming practices, and business decisions. Historically, wheat producers have drawn upon information from many sources in order to produce a crop of wheat.

But that has changed.

SDSU Extension has released a wheat production handbook titled: iGrow Wheat: Best Management Practices for Wheat Production.

Although winter wheat harvest is mostly complete there will be residue removal decisions made with other small grains and particularly with drought stressed corn and other crops. What are we losing with residue removal?

Publicly funded agricultural research programs in the United States provide a knowledge base for public and private scientists to target specific traits, develop varieties that address specific, localized challenges for farmers and lay the foundation for an ample, reliable supply of food for Americans and the world.

The collaboration between public and private wheat researchers provides solutions that work to increase the productivity and quality of the six classes of wheat grown in 42 states, maintaining a reliable supply of the wheat that our overseas customers need and expect. In fact, U.S. farmers plant varieties traced back to a public wheat research program on 76 percent of the 50 million acres they plant every year.

That South Dakota State University (SDSU) and Bayer CropScience have signed a non-exclusive agreement that provides Bayer access to a selection of SDSU’s spring wheat germplasm is welcome news says Kevin Kephart, SDSU vice president for research.

“We are very pleased to join with Bayer CropScience and the company’s global effort to increase wheat production,” Kephart said. “The spring wheat varieties developed at South Dakota State are widely adapted to the Northern Great Plains region and will be valuable to Bayer’s global program. We look forward to continuing our relationship with the Bayer team to improve wheat production, to provide value to wheat producers and to enhance South Dakota’s economic development through this work.”