Soils act as vast reservoirs for the Earth's carbon, and even a minor alteration in the soil's carbon content can have a profound effect on the stability of our atmosphere. Scientists have recently recognized the substantial carbon storage capacity within soil fungal networks, particularly the mycorrhizal mycelial network. Up to 36% of annual global carbon emissions are stored within this network.

In this episode of the No-Till Farmer podcast, brought to you by Yetter Manufacturing Company, we welcome John Tooker, an entomologist from Penn State University who says, "integrated Pest Management is more than just knowing what to spray and when."

Penn State Extension reminds corn growers who are replanting that the various genetic, insect-resistant traits and seed-applied treatments offered are not always necessary.

Despite a presence of soybean thrips, insecticides should only be used under certain conditions, and growers should be aware of the presence of beneficial predators, such as the "minute pirate bugs."

Michigan State University Extension recommends scouting fields that had a cover crop or a lot of weed growth prior to planting, and to consider whether an insecticide spray in wheat is necessary.