Environmental Sustainability

Weed & Insect Resistance Management

Tom Farms is constantly implementing the newest and safest chemistries to use.
Our fields and surrounding area are routinely scouted and accessed for the best possible timing and need of applications.
Research plots and other test strips are used to evaluate the potential use of chemicals and techniques.
Weed management is a high priority.
Integrated Pest Management Practices (IPM) is used to obtain the best and most cost effective results.

Irrigation uniformity is periodically tested.
Tom Farms uses this to correct irrigation issues.
Pivot monitoring systems are used to help catch breakdowns quickly so problems can be fixed and normal operation restored.
Water meters some times are used in conjunction with the pivot monitors to give Tom Farms a tool in scheduling the watering.
Hands-on moisture checking happens to help make sure we are supplying the right amount of water to field.
Plant growth stage, soil type, evapotranspiration rates, and weather data are all used to make irrigation decisions.

Many different methods are used to control erosion due to wind and water.
Applications of winter wheat as a cover crop are used to hold soil together and allow better water penetration.
Reduced tillage methods and no-till are a part of our overall program.
Irrigation management after planting can be used to control wind erosion.

Bi-annual soil testing is done to determine fertility and pH.
Fertility needs are determined on crop usage.
Yield potential is used to determine how much of each nutrient to use in a season.
In-season leaf samples and satellite nitrate monitoring determines if more or less fertility may be needed during the season.
Attention is paid to leave the fertility of the soil as good, if not better, than when we first rented the farm.