The objective of a subsurface (tile) drainage system is to control a high water table to create favorable soil water conditions for crop growth and field operations. This article discusses drain spacing requirements for patterned tile systems or for parallel laterals within the targeted areas of a targeted drainage system. Although the information here is focused on areas with parallel laterals, the same information can be used to give an idea of the area that will be effectively drained by a single drain line.

The early onset of spring this year set off a round of tornadoes in the Upper Midwest, causing significant damage and injuries in Illinois, Michigan, and the surrounding areas.  More recently, a weekend of severe weather brought tornadoes that went through Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa and other neighboring states.

Although it sounds cliché, lightning can strike during any season of the year.  It can be a significant hazard, both out in the open and near your home or office.  The highest danger is when you are exposed with very little protection, as when you are out in the field.

Unseasonal warm weather this spring has many producers potentially planting much earlier than normal. However, do not forget that stored grain as you head to the fields this spring! Even with the ideal harvest conditions stored grain needs to be checked for spoilage, molds, and insects.
Grain moisture content must decrease as the grain temperature increases to store that grain for an extended period of time.