Storm damage resources available

     The derecho that swept across Iowa Aug. 10 caused damage that will plague Iowans this fall and possibly into the new year.

     About 14 million acres of insured crops were affected, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. That includes 8.2 million acres of corn and 5.6 million acres of soybeans, spread across 57 Iowa counties.

     The crops team with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is compiling helpful resources that cover topics including safety and well-being, disease and insect management, evaluating crops, grain storage, nutrients and fertility, silage options, harvest considerations and crop insurance considerations.

     Current resources include information on:

     • How to assess the extent of crop damage and what producers can reasonably expect going forward.

     • How to inspect wind-damaged grain bins and make decisions on whether to repair or replace.

     • Whether corn that was intended for grain can be harvested for silage and the harvest and storage considerations required.

     • Mental health and suicide prevention through Iowa Concern.

     The list is being updated as cleanup continues, and as specialists continue to assess the immediate and long-term impacts of the storm.

     Follow the Integrated Crop Management web page for additional updates, and for storm-related news releases, follow ISU Extension and Outreach news.

     In addition, upcoming events have been scheduled in response to storm damage. They include:

     • Thursday, Aug. 27, 1:30 p.m. at City Park in DeWitt. Contact Sam Genson at 563-659-5125.

     • Tuesday, Sept. 1, 6 p.m. at Linn Co-op, Alburnett. Contact J.D. Waybill at 319-377-9839, ext. 305.

 

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