Roots & Ridge Report

October has arrived in southwest Minnesota, and after some much-needed but poorly timed rain, it looks like harvest is finally in full swing. After a warm start to fall, cooler and wetter conditions have slowed harvest progress across the region, with many fields needing some additional drying time before equipment could get back in. I’ve also heard quite a few reports of corn and soybeans that have started to sprout before harvest. No doubt, it has been a trying fall for farmers across the Midwest.

With some of the challenges we are seeing this year, I want to point you toward the articles and resources linked in the “Crop Talk” section of this month’s newsletter. There is some good information on options and best practices for storing crops that may have higher moisture levels or other quality concerns.

In the “Livestock Lowdown” section, you’ll find some important information from Dr. Lexie Goldstein regarding the nationwide HYCOAT recall, including what horse owners need to know and what steps they can take to help protect their horses’ health during this time.

There has been some harvest progress across southwest Minnesota, particularly in areas that were able to get into the fields earlier, but overall, things are moving behind the pace many farmers had hoped for. Statewide, USDA reports as of October 4, 12% of corn and 25% of soybeans were harvested. For those of us in Pipestone and Murray Counties, the forecast for the next week looks fairly favorable, aside from some chances for rain early next week. Hopefully, we can get a few more good field days before Mother Nature decides otherwise.

While harvest is certainly front and center, October also brings a shift toward fall and winter management decisions. Between finishing harvest, getting livestock ready for colder weather, completing fall fieldwork, reviewing this year’s production records, and beginning to think about plans and budgets for 2027, there is plenty to keep farmers busy.

I also want to encourage anyone who may be interested to take a look at the Minnesota Department of Agriculture grant opportunities. I would be happy to help anyone who needs a second set of eyes, wants to talk through an idea, or just needs some advice as they work through an application. I received a grant myself last year and am currently in the process of fulfilling it, so I know firsthand that there can be a lot to think about!

As we move through the month, hopefully we get some stretches of favorable weather to keep harvest moving and allow producers to finish the season on a good note. In the meantime, remember to take care of yourself and those around you during one of the longest and most demanding stretches of the agricultural year for crop producers. Stay safe out there, and hopefully the combines keep rolling!

Matti Blume- Extension Educator

boomg022@umn.edu

MC:507-836-1143

PC:507-825-1193

The FDA has issued an important safety update regarding Neogen Vet HYCOAT® (hyaluronate sodium sterile solution), a product used by veterinarians for wound management and, commonly, as an off-label joint injection in horses.

In January 2026, Neogen voluntarily recalled all HYCOAT lots within their expiration dates after microbial contamination was identified in certain lots. The recall applies to both the 2 mL and 10 mL vials of HYCOAT and was distributed nationwide. Recent FDA testing and investigation found that some HYCOAT products labeled as sterile were contaminated with several types of fungi. The contaminated product has been associated with serious infections in nearly 100 horses, with at least 20 horses ultimately requiring humane euthanasia.

What should horse owners do?

• Do not use HYCOAT that you may have at home, in your barn, or elsewhere on your property.

• Do not discard recalled product – in the event of adverse effects, the vial and lot number will be needed for documentation.

• If your horse has previously been treated with HYCOAT, contact Windy Ridge so we can determine whether any monitoring or follow-up is appropriate.

• If your horse develops new or worsening lameness, joint swelling, heat, pain, fever, or other signs of infection after a joint injection or wound treatment, contact Windy Ridge promptly for evaluation.

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If you have questions or concerns about whether your horse has been exposed to HYCOAT, please contact our veterinary team at 507-825-3336.

Dr. Lexie Goldstein

Windy Ridge Veterinary Clinic, PLLC

P. O. Box #367

1309 7th Street, S. E.

Pipestone, MN 56164

507-825-3336

507-825-5252 - Emergency

The future of the farm begins with a conversation. Our retreats help families plan for transition together. All generations, spouses, partners, and key decision-makers are encouraged to attend. Sessions cover family and business goals, roles and responsibilities, financial needs, inheritance, and transfer options. Register online to attend one of the four retreats offered around Minnesota in December through March. For more information, contact Tina LeBrun.

- Nathan Hulinsky & Susanne Hinrichs, Extension educators and Minnesota State

Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 7 p.m.

University of Minnesota Extension and The Ohio State University Extension have partnered with Purina Animal Nutrition to provide a sheep and goat nutrition-focused webinar. Dr. Patrick Gunn, who serves as Senior Nutritionist, R&D, and Technical Solutions for Purina Animal Health, will be leading the discussion evaluating how we can strive to manage our small ruminant females as pregnancy progresses through the fall season. Subpar precipitation across a majority of America makes nutrition a key component of fall management planning for ewes and does.

Link: Registration is required and is available at z.umn.edu/GSNutrition

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