GOOD GRASS.  We cover CRP-related news as we hit the midpoint in the program’s sign-up period. From the impact of surrounding habitat to the mixes for sale and advice on the ground for landowners, there’s lots to digest in today’s Outdoors Roundup.

Featured Photo:   TALL STUFF.  Good grass mixes on CRP acres make great habitat.  (Looks warm, doesn’t it?) Simonson Photo.

WEATHER (Bismarck Forecast):
Today:  Thu 1/16 – Winds Late – Hi 2, Lo -15, Wind SE@15, G25
Tomorrow:  Fri 1/17 – Warmish – Hi 29, Lo 10, Wind StoNW@20, G30

SOLUNAR (Bismarck Times):

Sunrise        Sunset
8:23AM        5:22PM

Moonrise         Moonset          Overhead                Underfoot
Fol. Day          12:00PM         5:54AM            6:19PM
Moon Phase:  Waning Gibbous (62% Full)

EDGE HOUR:   4:40-5:40PM. While it will be windy, sunset will be warmer and therefore, your Edge Hour on this challenging day.

DAY RATING:

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP:

CRP CAMP.  Agents of the NDG&F Dept. are available to help with CRP offers and the sign-up process now through February  29.  Private Land Biologists with the agency can assist with habitat options and exploring programs with the NDG&F for better grasslands and access, such as PLOTS.

BIG BUSINESS.  The grass seed mixes used for CRP planting are big business for seed dealers all around the country as the sign-up period continues.  From tall grasses to short ones, forbs to flowers, there are many options for the various climates where CRP is effective at preserving marginal lands.

IN DEPTH READING.  If you’re looking for some winter reading that is chock full of pheasant information, check out this report from PLOS detailing what constitutes ideal habitat for our favorite upland bird.  Note the correlation of big trees to serve as predator perches severely limits pheasant use of certain habitats.