01/19/09 Farmer input wanted on future direction for Cook Research Farm

Washington Ag January 19, 2009 Scientists at Washington State University are beginning to discuss what they want to accomplish in the next ten years at the R. J. Cook Agronomy Farm just northeast of Pullman. Scot Hulbert, Cook Endowed Chair in Cropping Systems Pathology at WSU, says the emphasis this past decade has been on direct seeding and precision application of nitrogen. He says the future focus will probably stay on conservation type agriculture but researchers would like input on what things they should look at more specifically. Hulbert: "For example what types of things are they interested in applying in precision, variable rate fashion? What type of rotations they would like us to look? How interested farmers are in carbon and biomass for biofuel and that type of thing." Researchers have developed a Cook Farm Research Directives Questionnaire they will be handing out at various meetings. But you can ask for one from Hulbert too. Hulbert: "Get a hold of me and I can send them one with a self-addressed envelope and they can fire it right back." Hulbert says the earlier the response the better as researchers will be debating the future direction at meetings all spring with the goal of starting a new research program this fall. You can reach Hulbert at 509-335-3722 or email at scot_hulbert@wsu.edu I'm Bob Hoff and that's Washington Ag Today on the Northwest Ag Information Network.