Ready to Grow Canola? Educational Meetings Announced in Oklahoma and Kansas

The recent announcement of grain processing company Scoular's plan to reopen its oilseed crushing plant in Goodland, Kansas, has sparked renewed interest in winter canola among growers.

As the demand for information about canola cultivation rises, Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University Research and Extension, in collaboration with industry partners, are stepping up to empower producers with the knowledge they need for success. 

The educational meetings are scheduled for Aug. 9 in Enid, Oklahoma, and Wichita, Kansas, and they target both new and experienced canola growers. Canola breeder Mike Stamm from KSU emphasizes the critical timing for canola planting, highlighting the importance of being ready by Sept. 1. 

During the meetings, specialists from OSU and KSU Research and Extension will share their experiences and expertise in working with the crop. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive refresher on common canola production practices, as well as updates on the latest developments in variety development and availability. 

To ensure canola growers are well-informed about marketing and pricing strategies, Scoular will provide insights during the meetings. The company will also share information about delivery point options available across the region, further equipping producers for the upcoming season. 

Josh Bushong, an OSU agronomist and canola and oilseed production specialist, encourages anyone considering growing canola this fall to attend these meetings. The sessions are free to attend, but reservations are recommended as a meal will be provided. 

To secure a spot, attendees are requested to RSVP to the following contacts: 

Aug. 9, 10 a.m., Hoover Building, 300 E Oxford Ave, Enid, Oklahoma: RSVP to Ron Sholar at 405-780-0113 or jrsholar@aol.com, or to Josh Bushong at 405-361-6941 or josh.bushong@okstate.edu. 

Aug. 9, 5:30 p.m., Sedgwick County Extension Office, Sunflower Room, 7001 W 21st St., Wichita, Kansas: RSVP to the Sedgwick County Extension Office at 316-660-0100 or to Jeff Seiler at jseiler4@ksu.edu.