SDCGA and RMA to host Planter Calibration Clinics

The South Dakota Corn Growers Association (SDCGA) will provide an opportunity for producers to learn how to properly calibrate their planters to achieve ultimate yields at planter clinics throughout the state during the week of Jan. 16-19.

Yield potential begins in the planter boxes and research has shown that fields with erratic spacing can reduce yields up to 20 bushels per acre. A gap in the corn stand could result from planter skips, insects or corn leafed out underground. If a producer’s current row spacing is more than 2 inches, they could be losing 5 to 10 bushels in yield. That’s why the SDCGA, together with the USDA Risk Management Agency, will bring to South Dakota a top planter calibration expert to host clinics for producers to tap into.

Kevin Kimberly brings 30 years of experience in calibrating planters. A farmer from Iowa, Kimberly is a dynamic speaker who will show producers how small adjustments to everything from planter wheels to corn meters can make a big difference to their bottom line. Kimberly has been an ag consultant to John Deere, Case IH and Syngenta.

The clinics will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on each the following dates and locations:

• Jan. 16: Pierre, Ramkota Hotel
• Jan. 17: Aberdeen, Ramkota Hotel
• Jan. 18: Watertown, Watertown Event Center
• Jan. 19: Sioux Falls, Ramkota Hotel

Topics to be covered in addition to planter calibration during the clinics include:

• Seed treatments
• Planter operation
• Compaction
• Corn meters
• Vacuum units
• Grid mapping

“We encourage all corn producers to take advantage of this great educational opportunity,” said Reid Jensen, president of the SDCGA. “Come spend a day with Kimberly and learn how to prepare your planter to achieve higher yields. If you’re looking to take your farming operation to the next level, this will be a day well spent.”

The event is offered at no cost and lunch will be provided. To register, contact the SDCGA at 605-334-0100.