Stine® Seed Company Regional Sales Agronomist Dustin Ellis traveled to Stanfield, Arizona, alongside Jeff Anderson, retail development director, and Tony Lenz, technical agronomist, to visit with several growers who are using Stine corn for their dairy operations. After more than 800 bags of Stine corn were planted across farms in the region, the team was eager to assess stand counts, evaluate crop performance and gain insight into the unique practices of southwestern corn growers.
The corn was planted between Feb. 20 and March 5 — ideal conditions for this part of the country. What followed was an interesting look into a system where corn is cultivated not once but twice a year. After chopping the crop for silage in late June or early July, these growers replant and go again. The region’s flood irrigation practices — using ridge rows to direct water flow — combined with pivot irrigation methods highlight the adaptability of these producers.
Special thanks to Scott Mineart of Sulco, a Stine dealer, for helping make the connection with the growers in this region and opening the door for Stine’s presence in Arizona.
One of the standout takeaways from the trip was how well Stine corn is performing under these conditions. Growers were especially pleased with the hybrids’ standability, their ability to stay green until harvest and the excellent tonnage they’re seeing — critical factors for high-quality silage.
“It’s really something to see firsthand,” says Ellis. “These growers are pushing two crops a year and need every acre to count. Stine’s genetics are standing tall — literally. We’re seeing great tonnage, excellent standability and strong greensnap resistance. It’s exciting to think about the role we can play in helping these dairies maximize their production.”
Thanks to T&K Red River Dairy and the Dugan family — Tom, Kathy and especially their son Tony — for making this trip possible. If it weren’t for Tony Dugan, the team wouldn’t have been there. Tony generously guided the Stine team throughout the visit, scouting both his family’s farms and neighboring operations that also grow Stine corn. His insight and hospitality provided an invaluable look into how Stine products are performing in the field.
Operations like T&K Red River Dairy, located in Stanfield, rely on consistency and high performance in their forage crops. Stine’s performance in this region shows real promise in helping meet those needs.
At operations supporting thousands of head of dairy cattle and using twin-row spacing strategies in action, the team gained a real-world look at how Stine’s genetics are not only holding their own but excelling in a dynamic southwestern growing environment.
To learn more about the value of Stine corn for silage and dairy operations, connect with your local sales rep today.