Corpus Christi, Texas, USA
March 31, 2011

An Oilseed Production Seminar will be held April 12 at the Texas AgriLife Research and Extension Center, 10345 State Highway 44 west of the Corpus Christi Airport.

“Although traditional crops like cotton, grain sorghum and corn now have excellent prices being offered, it is always good to diversify one’s farm operation,” said Jeffrey Stapper, Texas AgriLife Extension Service agent in Nueces County. “A growing demand for oilseed worldwide has sparked an interest even in South Texas in various oilseed crops as farmers look to diversify their farm operations.”

Stapper said the seminar, sponsored by AgriLife Extension, will be from
1:30-4:15 p.m. and costs $10 per person.

Topics will include an overview of cool-season oilseed crops such as canola, safflower and flax; and sunflower production tips by Dr. Rob Duncan, AgriLife Extension small grain specialist. Sesame production from planting tips to in-season management will be addressed by Jerry Riney of SESACO. Insect management in oilseed crops will be addressed by Dr. Roy Parker, AgriLife Extension entomologist.

Locally planted canola, safflower and flax variety tests will be toured, Stapper said.

Two continuing education units will be offered for pesticide applicators and certified crop advisers.