WINTER CANOLA FEASIBILITY IN ROTATION WITH WINTER WHEAT
Applied Research
Aaron Esser
Extension Agronomist
Washington State University
RITZVILLE
Abstract
Producers in the dryland (<12 inches annual precipitation) cropping region of eastern Washington continue looking for profitable alternatives to winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to limit grassy weed resistance to Group 2 herbicides. Winter canola (Brassica napus L.) is an oil seed crop that offers non Group 2 grassy weed herbicide options but has a very limited history in this region as agronomic and economic risks are elevated. The objective of this research is to help producers determine market prices needed to minimize risks, increase profitability, and decrease potential for herbicide resistances. An on-farm test (OFT) was initiated in the fall of 2006 examining two treatments: 1. winter canola, summer fallow, winter wheat; 2. winter wheat, summer fallow, winter wheat. The 6.5 acre OFT was a RCBD with 4 replications. Total production costs between the two crops were similar. Winter wheat produced greater yield and gross economic return at 43.5 bu and $355/ac compared to canola at 34.5 bu and $293/ac. Subsequent winter wheat yield was 39.3% greater following canola and over the total cropping sequence, no significant difference in gross economic returns were determined between winter wheat and canola averaging $493/ac. In conclusion, yield differences were documented between winter wheat and canola but market price differential between the two crops has a larger influence on the profitability and can vary dramatically from year-to-year. Overall winter canola needs to have a 26.4% price advantage per bushel over wheat to produce significantly greater gross economic returns.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted for judging. It will be displayed at the AM/PIC if not selected as a State winner. The abstract will be published in the proceedings.
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Authors: A.D. Esser*, R. Hennings
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Esser*, A. Extension Agronomist, Washington State University Extension, Washington, 99169
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Hennings, R. Wheat Producer, , Washington, 99032