• We use different chemistries than are used in the areas traditional crops.
• Black Gold Farms is always looking for the newest and safest chemistries to use.
• The field 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.
• 3+ year rotations are implemented to help break weed and disease pressures.

Integrated Pest Management Practices (IPM) are used to obtain the best and most cost effective results.

• Internal weekly agronomy conference call
• Helping with and staying current with new research
• Attending local, state and national meetings and training sessions

• Irrigation uniformity test is done on all pivots that are rented.
  • Black Gold Farms uses this to correct irrigation issues.
  • Land partners are given copies to enable them to understand and correct potential issues.
• Pivot monitoring systems are used to help catch breakdowns quickly so problems can be fixed and normal operation restored.
• Water meters are used in conjunction with the pivot monitors to give Black Gold 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.

• Pre-season soil testing is done to determine starting 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 petiole testing determines if more of 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 rented it.

• Many different methods are used to control erosion due to wind and water.
• Applications of polyacrylamide to hold soil together and allow better water penetration.
• Damer Dikers create pits to hold irrigation and rainfall in place.
• Cover crops are used to control erosion in the off season.
• Irrigation management after planting can be used to control wind erosion.

Fumigation is used where necessary to control nematodes and help with the reduction of
verticillium in the soil.

• This is beneficial not only in the current potato crop, but also benefits the following crops as well.