It has been my pleasure to be editor of AgFocus since the inception of a regional extension news publication in 1973. During that year, it was a major change to work with Sid Cleveland, Guy Burns and Paul Turner to turn my idea into a reality. Our first issue was published as AgImpact in January, 1974. When we consolidated with the Finger Lakes Team and Livingston County in 1992, the publication to serve the nine county area programs, AgFocus came into being.

The NWNY area is the “bread basket” of New York agriculture. Farmers in the area have always been enthusiastic and open minded about change. There has been a mega-change in agriculture since that time and I am glad to have been a part of a progressive and changing agricultural community. Change is still coming at us, only faster than in the past. Early on in my career, I learned the value of good soils plus positive attitudes as the basis for farm success.

A couple of comparisons: Just for comparison, let’s look at corn yields and milk production. In checking that 1976 issue, I see the average corn grain yield for 1975 was 87 bushels per acre. For 2007, it looks like it will work out to be about 130 bushels per acre. The difference can be attributed to a variety of factors. Certainly genetics is a major factor as plant breeders have developed improved cool soil vigor, standability, yield and resistance to pests. Cultural practices have improved with reduced tillage systems that allow for improved soil health and water retention. Pest management practices are tailored to farm conditions. Weed control is timely and complete. Plant nutrition has become much more precise. Earlier planting is now widely accepted.
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