News

Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 21, 2026

Published on May 21, 2026
Wheat is at Feekes 10.5 (flowering). Corn, soybeans and potatoes continued to emerge.
Regenerative agriculture in action: Grazing in cropping systems

Published on May 21, 2026
While regenerative practices aim to improve soil, water, nutrient cycling and biodiversity—and strengthen farmer and community well being—they also come with challenges. Learn key insights on how to navigate and implement these different principles.
Tracking phosphorus in Western Lake Erie: Why harmful algal blooms keep returning

Published on May 18, 2026
How phosphorus movement from fields to water fuels repeated algal outbreaks.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 14, 2026

Published on May 14, 2026
Wheat is at early Feekes 10 (awns or head emerging). Planting made great progress over the past week.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – May 7, 2026

Published on May 7, 2026
Wheat is at Feekes 9 (flag leaf ligule visible) with the head moving up the stem toward Feekes 10 (head emerging). Early planted soybeans began to emerge.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – April 30, 2026

Published on April 30, 2026
Wheat is at Feekes 8 (flag leaf emerging) and 9 (flag leaf ligule visible). Corn and soybean planting has started.
Ringing in spring with a peep! Getting to know the spring peeper

Published on April 23, 2026
Don’t be fooled by its small stature—Michigan’s smallest frog also happens to be the loudest.
Southwest Michigan field crops update – April 23, 2026

Published on April 23, 2026
Wheat is at Feekes 7 (two nodes). Alfalfa weevil damage is starting in alfalfa. Some fieldwork occurred between pockets of rainfall.
The future of farming may be shaded

Published on April 20, 2026
Researchers find solar panels can reduce crop stress while maintaining yields in commercial vegetable systems.
When flooding hits, MSU Extension is here to help

Published on April 17, 2026
Whether you’re a homeowner, farmer, parent or concerned community leader, MSU Extension offers trusted support during severe weather.