DONcast 2008
The new SITE-SPECIFIC DONcast will replace the generalized recommendations previously provided to Ontario wheat producers in map format. For 2008, wheat producers can receive online access to the more precise 'calculator version' of DONcast without a producer fee. Weather INnovations Incorporated (WIN) - sponsored by the wheat board (OWPMB) and many local farm input suppliers, will be providing this service.
To receive Site-Specific DONcast you MUST sign up. The better the information that producers provide to the model, the better the predictions of DON will be. Producers can go online to add their own wheat varieties and agronomy information for each field. Site-Specific DONcast retains your field information so you can return to the web page and receive updated DON forecasts without re-entering your data. Rainfall forecasts which are used in the model can be adjusted by the producer if desired. This will allow producers to “Plug and Play” and make more informed application decisions based on individual farm situations. The map version of DONcast will not be produced.
Signing up for Site-Specific DONcast is fast and easy. Go to the DONcast sign up page and fill out the form provided. Consider signing up at least 4 weeks before 'heading'.
WHEATcast: WIN has also developed a new wheat model called WHEATcast that identifies when fungicides need to be applied to control powdery mildew and septoria blotch in winter wheat. This model will be extensively tested this season.
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