Land and Livestock Post

August August August2017 2017 2017— — —Issue Issue IssueIIIIII

Good cow, bad cow To apply or not to apply?

How to figure out the difference XXXXXXXXXXXXXX PAGE 10 PAGE 12

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JAMES FEELINGTHOMPSON THE HEAT

PAGE PAGE 33

PAGE PAGE 39 3

JAMES KEEPING THOMPSON COOL

JAMES RICE ISTHOMPSON NICE

PAGE PAGE 37 3

PAGE PAGE 319 3

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Texas growers.

News From the General Manager

I

grew up with video games and computers. I have watched as technology advanced gradually throughout my lifetime. I’ve never been floored or shocked at the next new step. But there is a new technology that stopped me in my tracks, a real game-changer.

I’m talking, of course, about water balloons.

When I was a kid, water balloons existed. You could use regular balloons and fill them up, but they weighed about 20 pounds, and didn’t always break. But, you could buy the cheap, thin balloons that were made for filling with water and throwing at your brother.

But, you had to master how to get the balloon over the lip of the faucet, and then off again, with out it breaking. This was best done in the kitchen sink, so therefore you ran the risk of making a mess and having to clean the entire kitchen.

If you could manage to fill about five balloons, and get them outside, you were in business. In those days, five water balloons was a Cold-War era stockpile that could make na-

tions — or at least those who feared for the dryness of their clothes and hair — tremble and look to the skies in fearful anticipation.

Fast forward to present-day, and they have a contraption that fills more than 30 balloons at once, in about 20 seconds. I’ve bought them many times JESSE WRIGHT for my kids, and I’m always amazed at their reckless use of the water-laden orbs. My daughter will take them two at a time and throw them straight on the ground, screaming with glee as she reaches for more before the water even soaks into the grass.

My son literally will squeeze the balloons until they pop, or throw them at the dog if no one else is near.

I feel old telling them how

rough we used to have it when it comes to water balloons. For instance, I tell them how we’d hold on to one balloon all afternoon, in a stand off, or stake out a spot and wait up to an hour for the perfect moment to dowse someone with a water balloon, or how we’d see how long we could toss one balloon back and forth until it popped — and that when it popped, that was it, game over.

I feel these stories are soon to be followed with ones of how I did arithmetic in the ashes of the fireplace by candlelight, or walked uphill to school in the snow, both ways.

Water balloons may have come a long way, but so have cattle. In our cover story, we

take a look at temperament and how we have come to measure it to help deal with the overall health and well-being of cattle.

We also have news and information from around the ag industry as well as our regular features. Hope you enjoy it and, as always, thanks for reading. ’Til next time.

z For more information about content or advertising, contact Jesse Wright at jesse.wright@theeagle.com.

Texas Section Society for Range Management sets Oct. 11-13 annual meeting in San Angelo

By Steve ByrnS Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

SAN ANGELO — Plans are coming together for the Texas Section Society for Range Management annual meeting Oct. 1113 in San Angelo and organizers urge members and prospective members to mark their calendar for the statewide event.

Activities will center around the San Angelo’s McNease Convention Center.

“This year’s theme is Overcoming Ecological Challenges: Providing for Long-term Profitability,” said John Walker, Texas A&M AgriLife Research resident director at San Angelo and a past

See MEETING, Page 14

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August 2017 — Issue II

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The Land & Livestock Post

News Watermelon trial provides useful information for Texas growers

By Paul SchattenBerg Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

SAN ANTONIO — The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service melon trials at the San Antonio Food Bank not only provided produce for those in need, but also important information for Texas agricultural producers.

“We’ve been conducting these trials at the Urban Farm of the San Antonio Food Bank for four years,” said David Rodriguez, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service horticulturist in Bexar County.

“This year, we planted 16 varieties of watermelon to determine how they would perform.”

According to the food bank website, produce grown at the Urban Farm feeds the hungry and a small portion is sold at local farmers markets operated by the food bank or through its Mobile Mercado — a green grocer on wheels bringing fresh fruits and vegetables to areas of the community with limited access to them.

Photo courtesy of Master Gardener Rob DeRocher

Larry Stein examines watermelons from the San Antonio Food bank trial.

“This year we harvested at least 10,000 pounds of watermelon and less than 1,000 of that was used to get data for the trials,” said Mike Persyn, Urban Farm manager.

“The rest went for distribution to those in need.”

The watermelon varieties were planted April 12 from seedlings grown at Peterson Brothers Nursery in San Antonio.

“Petersons has been collaborating with us on the trials since they began,” Rodriguez said. “We obtain the seeds and Petersons grows the seedlings, which are ready for transplant after about three weeks.”

Larry Stein, AgriLife Extension horticulturist based in Uvalde, said the information gathered from the trials at the San Antonio Food Bank and other locations is focused on finding useful data to share

See MELONS, Page 15

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News

Spray drift damage: What landowners need to know

By Kay LedBetter Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

AMARILLO — With summer crop production in full swing, pesticide spray drift can cause damage to neighboring property owners, but they aren’t without recourse, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialist. “’Tis the season for application of pesticides to increase throughout Texas,” said Tiffany Dowell Lashmet, agricultural law specialist in Amarillo. “It is important for landowners to understand the rules and to know what to do before applying pesticides or in the event they suffer damages due to spray drift.

“Farmers on both sides of the issue — those applying pesticides and those neighboring landowners — should take care to understand the rules and responsibilities involved with pesticide application,” Lashmet said.

“In almost every instance, both farmers and neighbors have the same goal: avoiding drift issues and ensuring that everyone can harvest a good crop.”

As with every legal issue, it is always a good idea to try dealing with neighbor issues over a cup of coffee instead of in a courtroom, she said.

“Talking to your neighbor about these issues is a good place to start and can sometimes resolve problems without ever needing to get the legal process involved.”

Ideally, she said, this type of conversation would occur before pesticides ever are applied.

Discussing when and where application may occur, particularly near sensitive crops, can help avoid damage altogether. Making sure neighboring landowners know what crops may be growing nearby is also important.

For farmers preparing to apply pesticides, following the rules is key, Lashmet said.

“The label is the law, and it is critical that applicators strictly

4

follow label requirements.”

Additionally, applicators should be familiar with all Texas Department of Agriculture rules for spraying in their location, she said. Keeping accurate logs and records is extremely important for all applicators.

Unfortunately, sometimes drift does occur, Lashmet said. In that event, the damage carefully should be documented.

This should include taking photographs or samples of damaged crops or foliage, documenting wind speed, direction, temperature, and getting statements from any witnesses who might have seen the application.

“The more documentation an injured farmer has, the better his chances of recovery will be,” she said.

Lashmet said application of pesticides is governed by the Texas Department of Agriculture. In the event that someone illegally is applying the product — meaning an application in violation of the label requirements or TDA rules — the TDA has the authority to levy a fine and/or impose restrictions against that person.

Upon receipt of a complaint, the TDA will send someone to investigate the alleged drift incident, conduct interviews, inspect records and collect evidence, she said. If TDA finds a violation has occurred, it may fine the violator and impose restrictions on his or her ability to continue applying pesticides.

“It is important to note any fines imposed by TDA are paid to the TDA, rather than serving as payment for damages to the neighboring landowner,” Lashmet said.

She also noted that before calling TDA, it is important that the injured landowner ensure his or her own records are complete and accurate, as TDA likely will inspect them during their investigation.

“Unfortunately, TDA’s investigation and determination may take an extended period of time

to complete, which can lead to frustration for the injured farmer,” Lashmet said.

The injured landowner might want to consider a civil lawsuit against the applicator, she said.

Unlike a TDA fine, a judgment in a lawsuit between the injured landowner and applicator will go to the landowner to compensate for damages.

“There are a number of potential claims that may be considered depending on the factual situation, including nuisance, trespass, negligence and others,” Lashmet said. “In the event that a lawsuit is filed, having the documentation and evidence discussed will be extremely useful for the landowner.”

Landowners should not wait to seek legal advice, as statutes of limitations apply to these claims

Spray drift can be a concern this time of year. and generally begin running at the time the damage occurs, she said.

“With consideration for other landowners, careful preparation

Texas A&M AgriLife photo by Kay Ledbetter

and ensuring that rules are followed, farmers should have no problems with pesticide application to crops in Texas,” Lashmet said.

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August 2017 — Issue II

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The Land & Livestock Post

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Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Rod Santa Ana

With farmers markets growing in popularity, consumers should be aware of the regulations governing what vendors are allowed to sell and how to ensure food safety.

Rules regulate sales at farmers markets

By Paul SchattenBerg Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

KERRVILLE — While the popularity of farmers markets has grown, there is still a lot of misunderstanding about what certain terms mean and what is allowed to be sold there, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service program specialist.

“A lot of the terms used to describe foods are subject to misinterpretation and definitions may vary,” said Rebecca Dittmar, AgriLife Extension program specialist for food protection man-

agement based in Kerrville.

“For example, a farmers market is a designated location used primarily for the distribution and sale of food directly to consumers by farmers and other producers.

But a certified farmers market is one that has met the requirements set by the Texas Department of Agriculture and has applied to become certified.”

She said while the term “locally grown” is often a consumer draw, the definition adopted by the 2008 Farm Act considers a locally or regionally produced agricultural

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News Rules, from Page 5 food product to be one sold less than 400 miles from its origin, or within the state in which it was produced.

“Then there’s the term ‘organic,’ which refers to meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products from animals that are given no antibiotics or growth hormones,” she said. “Organic food is produced without using most conventional pesticides, fertilizers made with synthetic ingredients or sewage sludge, bioengineering or ionizing radiation.”

She said before a product can be labeled organic, a governmentapproved certifier inspects the farm where the food is grown to make sure the farmer is following all the rules necessary to meet U.S. Department of Agriculture organic standards.

On the other hand, a product labeled “natural” is one containing no artificial ingredients or added color and only minimally is processed, she said.

“Minimal means that the product was processed in a manner that does not fundamentally alter the product,” Dittmar said. “And the product label must include a statement explaining the meaning of the term natural, like ‘contains no artificial ingredients’ or such.”

Dittmar said some o f the products allowed to be sold at farmers markets include whole, uncut produce; meat and meat products; canned items such as tomatoes, relishes, salsas and pickled squash; honey, eggs and some non-food items.

“If they are selling whole, intact, unprocessed fruits and

vegetables, there is no permit required in Texas,” she said. “But if selling cut tomatoes, leafy greens or melons, the producer needs to have a permit and store foods at 41 degrees or lower.”

Consumers always should avoid buying bruised or damaged produce, she added.

She said certain canned goods can be sold if the vendor has a manufacturer’s license for the products.

Dittmar said honey can be sold by small- and large-scale producers, but large-scale producers should have a food manufacturer’s license and offer a properly packed and labeled product.

“The proper labeling information is on the Food and Drug Administration’s food labeling guide,” she said.

Dittmar said eggs can be sold at farmer’s markets if the seller has a temporary food establishment license from the Texas Department of State Health Services or a local regulatory authority and if the eggs are kept at an ambient air temperature of 45 degrees or lower.

“The eggs should be labeled as ‘ungraded,’ have safe handling instructions and labeling should provide the producer’s name and address,” she said. “They should be refrigerated as soon as possible after cleaning and sorting to preserve internal quality and reduce the potential for bacterial growth. There are FDA, TDA and DSHS regulations for the sale of eggs.”

Additional information on the regulation of farmers markets in Texas can be found at www.dshs. texas.gov/foodestablishments/ farmersmarkets/.

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News

Product handling is critical to the success of any herd

By Dr. MEREDYTH JONES Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine

The cow-calf production unit is the basis for the entire beef industry. The production of quality calves requires strict attention to the health of all calves, cows and bulls in the facility.

Our goal is to use animal health products, such as vaccines, dewormers and medications to reduce the incidence overall and reduce the impact of disease on animal welfare and production. Working cattle is a quality-, not quantity-, driven task. A tremendous amount of financial and time resources goes in to administering products to protect animal health and care should be taken to ensure we receive the maximum return on our investment by properly managing the animals and animal health procedures.

Product Handling Heat, cold, light and dirt all have negative effects on the integrity of animal health products. Processing areas are tough places to keep clean and working cattle in Texas nearly guarantees sunshine and heat.

Freezing can damage products as well.

Consider purchasing or making a syringe cooler. Making one can be as simple as cutting holes to accommodate syringe barrels in the top or side of a cooler as a location to place syringes between animals. Ice packs in the cooler help complete the protection of the syringes and product from light, dirt and heat.

Modified live vaccines particularly are sensitive to environmental conditions. As a rule of thumb, if you need to reconstitute a powder and liquid

Vet’s Voice component to use the vaccine, it is a modified live product.

The most common modified live vaccines used on cow-calf operations contain altered live virus particles and stimulate a strong immune response, but proper handling of these products is absolutely necessary for successful immune response of the calves.

These products work by a small amount of replication after injection to stimulate the immune system. If the viruses die, they will not be able to replicate and stimulate an immune response.

Once the products are mixed, precautions should be taken to prevent premature death of the viruses. Mixed product is only viable for 60-90 minutes after combining liquid and powder.

Any unused product at the end of this time should be discarded. Only mix the amount of vaccine that can be used in one hour. This is where your syringe cooler comes in. It will hold your filled syringes and your product that is mixed, but not currently in the syringe.

Disposable and reusable syringes are both acceptable for use with animal health products but both must be cared for properly — they have valuable cargo. There are special considerations for cleaning of vaccine syringes between use as modified live vaccines are killed by disinfectants. If you are using reusable syringes, one should be marked clearly always to be used for modified live vaccines

The Land & Livestock Post

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Photo courtesy of Dr. Meredyth Jones

Making a syringe cooler can be as simple as cutting holes to accommodate syringe barrels in the top or side of a cooler as a location to place syringes between animals. so that it is never cleaned with disinfectants. Following are specific recommendations for care of veterinary syringes.

General guidelines for managing veterinary syringes: • Reusable syringes should be cleaned and maintenance performed after each day of usage or prior to use with a different injectable product.

• Sterile disposable syringes can be used for one time use for animal treatments.

• Syringe maintenance should occur in a clean, sanitary work area free from blowing dust and contaminants.

• Prior to processing, the operator thoroughly should wash and rinse his hands and arms to remove potential contaminants.

Antibacterial soap or hand sanitizer residue, for example, can inactivate modified live vac-

See COOLER, Page 14

August 2017 — Issue II

7

News

Water well owner training set for Aug. 23 in Conroe groundwater resources, septic system maintenance, well maintenance and construction, and water quality and treatment.”

He said participants may bring well-water samples to the training for screening. The cost is $10 per sample, due when samples are turned in. “ Wat e r s a m p l e s w i l l b e screened for nitrates, total dissolved solids and bacteria,” Gholson said.

Well owners who would like to have their well water sampled can pick up two sample containers from the AgriLife Extension offices in Montgomery County, Walker County or San Jacinto County, or the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Office. The containers are free and instructions are included.

Bringing water samples to the

training is not required, Gholson said, but those wanting to have water samples analyzed must attend.

Gholson said space is limited, so attendees are requested to register by contacting the Texas Well Owner Network at twon. tamu.edu/training or by calling 979-845-1461 as soon as possible.

The training is one of several being conducted statewide through the Continued Statewide Delivery of the Texas Well Owner Network project.

“The core content of this program is the same as other trainings, but the information is tailored to local water quality issues and aquifers,” he said.

More than a million private water wells in Texas provide water to people in rural areas and increasingly to those living

on small acreages at the growing rural-urban interface, according to Gholson.

“Private well owners are independently responsible for monitoring the quality of their wells,” he said. “They are responsible for all aspects of ensuring their drinking water system is properly maintained. This training will help private well owners to understand and care for their wells.”

Funding for the Texas Well Owner Network is through a nonpoint source grant provided by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board. The project is managed by the Texas Water Resources Institute, part of Texas A&M AgriLife Research, the AgriLife Extension and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Texas A&M University.

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q q Photo by John Smith

The Texas Well Owner Network will hold a free training Aug. 23 in Conroe.

Special to The Post

CONROE — Anyone interested in private water well management is invited to a Texas Well Owner Network training Aug. 23 in Conroe.

The free training is offered to area private water well owners through collaboration with the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District. It will run from 1-5 p.m. at the Lone Star Groundwater Conservation District Office, 655 Conroe Park North

8

Drive.

“The Texas Well Owner Network is for Texas residents who depend on household wells for their water needs, so they can learn about improving and protecting their community water resources,” said Drew Gholson, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service program specialist and network coordinator in College Station. “The program was established to help well owners become familiar with Texas

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August 2017 — Issue II

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The Land & Livestock Post

News

Heat stress can reduce pregnancy rates in cattle Treatment group

Control

Moderate stress

Severe stress

Daytime temp (F)

71

97

98

Nighttime temp (F)

71

91

91

Relative humidity %

25

27

40

Rectal temp (F)

102.0

102.7

103.6

Pregnancy %

83

64

50

Conceptus weight (g)

0.158

0.111

0.073

z Table 1. Effects of Imposed Heat Stress on Reproduction in Beef Cows (Biggers, 1986; OSU).

By Glenn Selk Oklahoma State University

The effects of heat stress on reproductive performance of beef cows has been discussed by many animal scientists in a variety of ways. After reviewing the scientific literature available up to 1979, one scientist (Christenson, R.K. 1980, J. Anim.

Sci. 51: Suppl II: 53.) wrote that the most serious seasonal variation in reproductive performance was associated with high ambient temperatures and humidity.

He further pointed out that pregnancy rates and subsequent calving rates of 10 to 25 percent were common in cows bred in July through September.

Typical Oklahoma summer weather can fit the description of potential heat stress, where many days in a row can exceed 95 degrees and night time lows often are close to 80 degrees. Many hours of the day can be quite hot and cause the slightest rise in body temperature of cattle.

Research conducted several years ago at Oklahoma State University illustrated the possible impact of heat stress of beef cows on their reproductive capability. These cows were exposed to bulls as one group (while in a thermo-neutral environment) and one week later exposed to the environmental treatments listed in Table 1.

They found that heat stress of beef cows from day 8 through 16 affected the weights of the con-

ceptus (embryo, fluids, and membranes) and the increased body temperature may have formed an unfavorable environment for embryo survival.

As noted in table 1, the percentage of pregnancies maintained throughout the week of severe heat stress was reduced considerably.

Florida scientists studying dairy cows reported that for high conception rates, the temperature at insemination and the day after insemination was critical to success.

They stated that the optimal temperature range was between 50 degrees F and 73 degrees F. Declines in conception occurred when temperatures rose above this range.

Extremely hot days and warm nights in the Southern Plains will cause core body temperatures of range cows to elevate.

This data suggests that producers should make every effort to establish their breeding seasons when the temperatures are more in a thermal neutral range.

Also remember that bull fertility is affected by heat stress.

Heat stress causes a percentage decrease in pregnancy percentages.

It is not an “all or nothing” situation. Fall calving (with breeding seasons beginning in late November and ending in January) allow for fertilization and early embryonic survival when heat stress is not a factor.

The Land & Livestock Post

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News

Temper, temper Temperament evaluation systems are useful tools

By RoBeRt FeaRs Special to The Post

D

uring the past 50 to 60 years, much has been learned on how to raise cattle to produce tender, tasty beef. One of the biggest advancements is documentation of adverse effects on production from bad temperament and resulting animal stress.

Almost every progressive producer now practices low-stress handling in his or her operation.

Regardless of how calmly cattle are handled, however, there is an occasional animal or two that dart from the herd during movement to the corrals or take great delight in clearing the pen of cowboys within 30 seconds after the gate is closed. These actions usually are rewarded with a quick ticket to the nearest auction sale.

If bad temperament is recognized early in an animal’s life, the individual can be removed from the herd and replaced with an animal that offers a better production potential. This makes temperament evaluation systems useful and important tools for beef cattle producers, as discussed by Ronald Randel of Texas A&M AgriLife Research at the 62nd Annual Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course. Most of the information in this article is taken from Dr. Randel’s presentation.

Temperament significance Randel began his presentation by giving the definition of temperament as it applies to cattle: “The reactivity or fear response to humans.”

Adverse effects of bad temperament and related stress are many. From a liability standpoint, calm cattle reduce

10

Photos by Robert Fears

Above, Brahman cross bred cattle tend to be more temperamental than British breeds. On the cover, Proper breeding, culling and handling develop docile cattle. risk of injury to handlers. Temperamental cattle often experience bruising, broken bones, or cuts when trying to go through, over or under a fence. These injuries often result in veterinarian costs and reduced animal performance.

Adverse effects on growth rates occur in temperamental cattle because of reduced feed intake and average daily gain. Carcass quality is decreased by less intramuscular fat (marbling) and greater sheer force (toughness). Bruised

tissue must be trimmed from the carcass, resulting in lower yield.

Stress generated in temperamental cattle sometimes is expressed as dark cutter carcasses, which are purplishblack in color rather than bright red.

Dark cutter beef is unappealing to consumers, may spoil faster and is not sold in retail stores. As a result, dark cutters are discounted severely at packing plants.

Stress in temperamental cattle can

August 2017 — Issue II



reduce response to vaccines, making the animals more susceptible to disease.

Reproduction is affected adversely by stress through reduced fertility.

Stressful events induce secretion of stress related hormones including cortisol, epinephrine and norepinephrine.

Minimizing stressful incidents and identifying animals that may react poorly to stressful events may benefit cattle

See RESPONSE, Page 11

The Land & Livestock Post

News Photo by Robert Fears

Low-stress handling is a first step toward docile cattle.

24 by 24 feet, and approached by two observers for scoring.

Fear response to the observers is ranked on a scale of 1 to 5 with 1 representing calm and 5 signifying very temperamental.

The complete scoring system is illustrated in Table 1.

Advantages of pen scores are

Response, from Page 10 growth and health.

Measurements

There are three proven methods of measuring calf temperament, recommended to be done at or near weaning.

Exit velocity is an objective method with no observer bias.

Time required for calves to traverse a distance of 6 feet after exiting a squeeze chute is recorded. Exit velocity has good correlations with other temperament measurements and concentrations of cortisol in the blood. Calf exit velocity

can be measured as early as 3 months which allows identification of temperamental animals prior to weaning.

A disadvantage of exit velocity measurements is the equipment requirements, which include infrared beam timers used to document start and stop times. In addition, exit velocity doesn’t measure all aspects of temperament, such as aggression. The principal behavior measured is likely fear and dislike of being restrained alone.

Pen score is a subjective temperament measurement, subject to observer bias. A group of three to five calves are penned in a small lot, approximately

that they correlate well with cortisol concentrations in the blood and with other temperament measurements. Repeated measurements correlate with each other and cortisol concentrations. The disadvantage is the requirement of an additional handling of calves.

To determine docility score (also called chute score), a calf

See CATTLE, Page 13

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August 2017 — Issue II

Hours: M-F 8-5:30 • sat 8-12

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News

Temperament is a moderately to highly heritable trait.

Cattle, from Page 11 is secured in the head gate of a squeeze chute without any squeeze. Reaction of the calf is scored from 1 to 6 with 1 representing docile and 6 representing very aggressive animals (Table 2). The advantages of the chute scoring system is it is easy to use during routine calf handling. It positively correlates with other temperament measurements. Disadvantages

are scoring being subjective and results do not correlate with blood cortisol concentrations.

The McGregor Genomics Project temperament scoring system requires four evaluators to assign scores post weaning (Table 3). Two evaluators are located at each end of an alley approximately 12 feet wide by 75 feet long. Two calves are evaluated at a time in the alley.

Advantages of the McGregor

Genomics Project System are the evaluation of multiple aspects of behavior and good measurement precision with the scale of 1 to 9. Disadvantages are the requirements of four qualified observers and another calf handling.

Angus, Brangus, Simmental and Limousine breed associations use the docility 1 to 6 scoring system endorsed by Beef Improvement Federation.

American Angus Association

breeders measure docility on yearlings, while the other three associations recommend testing at weaning and again when calves become yearlings.

American Brahman Breeders Association uses pen scores at weaning with the scoring system of 1 to 5 and American Salers Association recommends the docility scoring system with a range of 1 to 5 at weaning and again as yearlings.

Understanding the influencers of calf temperament helps in adoption of management techniques to avoid reduced production due to bad dispositions. Calf temperament is influenced by other animals in the herd, the dam’s age when the calf is born, the calf’s age at weaning, and permanent envi-

Photo by Robert Fears

ronmental factors.

Research shows that heifers are more temperamental than bulls, although we commonly think of bulls as the harder to handle. There is a significant amount of variation in temperament measures among cattle breeds. Brahman crossed cattle are more temperamental relative to British breeds.

Temperament is a moderately to highly heritable trait and its tendencies can be identified through DNA testing. Several commercial companies are providing genetic markers for temperament in conjunction with markers for other traits. Since bad temperament is heritable, it can be controlled in the herd

See CATTLE, Page 14

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August 2017 — Issue II

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News Meeting, from Page 2

LIVESTOCK MARKET REPORT Brazos Valley Livestock

Results of the Brazos Valley Livestock Commission’s July 25 sale.

Head: 905 Steers: 200-300 lbs., $165-$205; 300-400 lbs., $148-$175; 400-500 lbs., $140-$161; 500-600 lbs., $140-$157; 600-700 lbs., $130-$144; 700-800 lbs., $132-$140 Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $144-$165; 300-400 lbs., $135-$155; 400-500 lbs., $128-$145; 500-600 lbs., $126-$143; 600-700 lbs., $128-$135; 700-800 lbs., $120-$123 Slaughter bulls: $82-$87 Slaughter cows: $40-$77 Bred cows: $850-$1,200 Cow/calf pairs: $1,000-$1,625

Groesbeck

Results of the Groesbeck Auction and Livestock Company’s July 20 sale.

Head: 473

Cooler, from Page 7 cines.

• Syringes should be evaluated visually after cleaning and prior to use. If they show signs of organic debris, they should be re-cleaned.

• Labelling of reusable syringes by color coding or type is a good tool to ensure that syringes used for modified-live vaccines are not mishandled accidentally.

• Soap or disinfectant should not be used on internal components of syringes used for modified live vaccines. The residues may inactivate the vaccine even if the syringe is completely dry prior to use.

Syringe cleaning guidelines: • Clean the external syringe surface with hot tap water, soap and a brush to remove all visible debris.

• Disassemble syringes and wash internal syringe parts with clean, hot tap water (do not use soap or disinfectant).

• Boil internal syringe parts

14

Steers: 300-400 lbs., $170-$210; 400500 lbs., $162-$189; 500-600 lbs., $145$176; 600-700 lbs., $140-$172 Heifers: 300-400 lbs., $148-$180; 400500 lbs., $142-$168; 500-600 lbs., $140$162; 600-700 lbs., $130-$150 Slaughter bulls: $85-$97 Slaughter cows: $55-$73 Bred cows: $800-$1,400 Cow/calf pairs: $1,100-$1,600

Jordan Results of the Jordan Cattle Auction’s July 20 sale.

Head: 2,190 Steers: 300-400 lbs., $170-$197; 400500 lbs., $160-$185; 500-600 lbs., $145$158; 600-700 lbs., $138-$148; 700-800 lbs., $133-$145 Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $150-$170; 300400 lbs., $150-$162; 400-500 lbs., $140-$154; 500-600 lbs., $135-$155; 600-700 lbs., $128-$145; 700-800 lbs.,

in de-ionized or distilled water for 5 minutes.

• Use a small amount of clean vegetable oil or syringe lubricant for rubber components • Reassemble syringes.

• Rinse internal parts of syringe with hot water greater than 180º F three to five times.

This also applies to automatically filling syringes.

• Boil water in a cup in the microwave and pull the hot water into the syringe and expel for three to five repetitions.

• When completed, remove as much of the water as possible from the syringe by moving the plunger back and forth.

• Be sure to let the syringe cool prior to usage — residual heat also will inactivate modified live vaccines.

• Store the syringe in a clean, dry location prior to next use.

Vaccine transfer needle (for reconstitution of modified live vaccines) care: • These needles should be rinsed in hot tap water (no soap or disinfectant).

$122-$140 Slaughter bulls: $77.50-$94 Slaughter cows: $55-$79 Bred cows: $900-$1,325 Cow/calf pairs: $1,100-$1,450

Navasota Results of the Navasota Livestock Commission’s July 15 sale.

Head: 1,539 Steers: 200-300 lbs., $115-$226; 300400 lbs., $115-$120; 400-500 lbs., $115$171; 500-600 lbs., $110-$158; 600-700 lbs., $110-$144 Heifers: 200-300 lbs., $115-$125; 300400 lbs., $115-$175; 400-500 lbs., $151$165; 500-600 lbs., $110-$150; 600-700 lbs., $105-$140 Slaughter bulls: $45-$72 Slaughter cows: $70-$88 Bred cows: $700-$1,275 Cow/calf pairs: n/a — Special to The Post

• The needle then should be placed in boiling de-ionized or distilled water for 5 minutes.

Administration Finally, injection technique influences product efficacy. All injections should be administered in accordance with Beef Quality Assurance guidelines in approved injection locations. The neck is the preferred site for all injections and the hindquarters always should be avoided. All products should be administered following label directions regarding dose and route of administration. If given the choice on the label between intramuscular and subcutaneous administration, injections should be given subcutaneously.

Needles should be changed a minimum of every 10 animals or anytime a needle bends or burrs. Ideally, a new needle should be used for every animal. If a needle bends, it should not be straightened to be used

president of the range management organization.

“In reviewing the agenda, I’ve noted the presentations support the theme in a varied and interesting way with a wide array of topics ranging from the use of drones to new feral hog management technology.

“This educational opportunity should be a top priority for anybody who earns a living from the land.”

Oct. 11 scheduled topics include technology in agriculture, drone use and GIS. Oct. 12 topics include beef herd marketing for added value, economic feasibility of range improvement projects, drought management, environmental impacts of oil and gas decisions, and managing rangelands for multiple products.

Oct. 13 will be devoted to a tour of the Hugh Stone Ranch to view prickly pear herbicide use, drone use and a demonstration of the Boar Buster Hog Trap.

For more general, fees and registration information, contact Corey Owens, Angelo State University senior instructor/research associate, at 325-486-6757 or corey.owens@angelo.edu.

again as the spot of the bend is prone to breakage. Broken needles should be recorded on the processing record and if the needle was broken in the animal, the piece should be removed immediately via surgical means. If the needle cannot be located, a note should be made that the animal never be slaughtered for consumption.

Care also should be taken to avoid injecting animals through areas of manure or mud that may be on the hide.

A lot of time, effort and cost

go in to developing and executing a quality herd health plan.

Be sure to make the extra effort to ensure that cattle facilities and handling minimize stress on the cattle and allow their immune system to function at its maximum potential and that product handling is done in such a way that the product is able to do everything it was designed to do. The reward will come with healthy, productive cattle that meet and exceed the needs of your enterprise and the industry.

Cattle, from Page 13

non-docile animals will improve herd performance. Good management practices, such as low-stress handling, also are important.

Before buying purebred cattle, examine their expected progeny differences for docility.

Managing cattle for low stress in a cow/calf operation can improve herd production and add profit to the bottom line.

through genetic selection. Many breed associations calculate expected progeny differences for disposition.

Temperamental animals influence other cattle and can make the entire herd hard to handle. Testing the calf crop for temperament as early as possible and eliminating the

August 2017 — Issue II

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The Land & Livestock Post

News Photo courtesy Bexar County Master Gardener Rob DeRocher

Bexar County Master Gardener Andrew Waring uses a refractometer to assess a watermelon’s sweetness. trials in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, East Texas and the Panhandle. The data from these trials is compiled and put online for those interested in small- or large-scale production.”

For the most current statewide watermelon trials results, go to

Rural Land Loans Country Home Loans Farm & Ranch Loans

bit.ly/2gNlWjy. “The trials at the food bank also provided some useful information about what varieties will grow better in a clay soil,” Persyn said. “Melons are typically grown in areas with more sandy soil, so it was important to find out which ones grow better in the type of soil we have here.”

He said additional trails of

See TRIALS, Page 16

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TEXAS’ LARGEST RURAL LENDER Melons, from Page 3 with agricultural producers in watermelon-producing areas of the state.

“Texas is the nation’s largest watermelon producer,” Stein said. “We also have watermelon

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E-mail: thepost@theeagle.com All offices are located at 1729 Briarcrest Drive Bryan,Texas 77802.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Eagle, P.O. Box 3000, Bryan,Texas 77805-3000

*Pricing valid through 12-31-2017

Serving you with locations at Nacogdoches, TX .... (936) 569-8770

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FOR ALL YOUR RESIDENTIAL AND AGRICULTRUAL NEEDS LET US HELP YOU CUSTOMIZE YOUR NEXT METAL PROJECT. DELIVERY AVAILABLE

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News Trials, from Page 15 honeydew, cantaloupe and tomato by AgriLife Extension have been helpful in determining what varieties to plant on the Urban Farm. The trial also allowed researchers to test horticultural techniques.

“Dr. Stein also brought a black plastic mulch cover to protect and retain moisture for the watermelons while they grew, and that made a huge difference in the success of this year’s crop,” he said.

Rodriguez said the melon varieties are planted with consumer preferences in mind.

“We know consumers prefer a seedless melon, so 14 of the 16 va-

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rieties we planted were seedless,” Rodriguez said. “We also focused on the smaller-size melons most consumers prefer — about 15-20 pounds.

He said the recent harvest was timed in conjunction with the optimum window for bringing in a watermelon crop.

“Typically watermelon sales peak around the Fourth of July, so producers want to make sure they harvest their melons that week or the week before,” he said.

Rodriguez said more than 20 Bexar County Master Gardener volunteers assisted with the food bank harvest.

“We planted wide rows so they had to follow the fruit to the vine it came from so we could identify the variety,” he said. “The watermelons were counted and graded.

Then we chose two or three melons of each variety that we felt represented the best sampling for further testing.”

Melons chosen for further testing were weighed and tested for

Photo courtesy Bexar County Master Gardener Rob DeRocher

Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service personnel and Bexar County Master Gardeners collaborated with the San Antonio Food Bank on the recent melon trial. sweetness using a refractometer.

“We also did a consumer taste test to try and determine which of the melons varieties seem to have the greatest consumer appeal,” Stein said.

He said while the taste-test portion of the study is subjective, other data collected is scientifically objective and can be used to help evaluate what varieties home and commercial gardeners would prefer to try.

“The data we collect will help producers identify potential new varieties to plant in the future,” he said. “They will have access to practical information related to the yield and size of the melons, including what portion of the yield produced melons in a particular weight range.”

August 2017 — Issue II

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*$0 Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60-months on purchases of select new Kubota L3301 / L3901 / L4701/ MX5200 equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 9/30/17. See us or go to www.KubotaUSA.com for more information. $0 Down, 3.49% A.P.R. financing for up to 60-months on purchases of select new Kubota Z100, Z400, Z700, ZD, ZG Series equipment from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $18.19 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 9/30/17. See us or go to www.

KubotaUSA.com for more information. **Customer instant rebates of $500 are available on qualifying cash or standard rate finance purchases of new Kubota L2501 / L3301 / L3901 / L4701 equipment from participating dealers’ stock inventory. Rebate is not available with 0% A. P.R. or other promotional financing . Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 9/30/17.

See us or go to www.KubotaUSA.com for more information. ***Customer instant rebates of $500 are available on purchases of new Kubota L2501 / L3301 / L3901/ L4701 equipment with two new qualifying implements from participating dealers’ stock. 1st implement $200, 2nd implement $300. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 9/30/17. See us or go to www.

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News Lack of news from the field may be good news for rice growers

By Kathleen PhilliPs Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service

BEAUMONT — As Texas rice farmers gear up for harvest, no news from the field means potentially good news at the mill.

“We’re on the front end of the harvest, still about two weeks from the peak, and we’re not hearing of any serious problems with insects or horrendous disease problems,” said Ted Wilson, center director at Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center-Beaumont, in late July. “It’s too early to know what yields will be like, but we will probably have a normal year.”

Weeds have been the biggest issue this year, but were not too bad unless a field was in an area with a lot of rainfall, Wilson said.

The rice-growing region — more than 20 counties mostly along the upper Gulf Coast and near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border — has different soils and rainfall amounts each year, which impacts yields, he said.

Texas A&M AgriLife photo by Kathleen Phillips

Harvest time is approaching for Texas rice fields.

“East of Houston, the rice growing area gets an average of 60 inches of rain a year and the soils are heavier, so the moisture lingers,” Wilson said. “West of Houston,

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the rice fields get about 37 inches a year and the soil is lighter.”

Texas rice farmers planted 158,000 to 172,000 acres, Wilson estimated, and may

be able to see improving prices stemming from the overall U.S. and world rice situation.

Overall, Wilson noted, the U.S. rice crop may have decreased about 500,000 acres from 2016 levels.

“Most of the drop this year is in Arkansas due to the heavy rains and flooding that happened too late for them to replant.

Acreage in Texas may be down from 1017 percent, which is largely due to suppressed prices,” Wilson said.

He explained that the huge carryover of rice internationally — especially in Thailand where the government had purchased large stocks from farmers and then dumped it on the global market — has been selling down to more manageable levels.

“As a result, prices are expected to soon rebound to the levels they should be,” he said. “Barring a tropical storm developing during harvest, we should have a normal year. We have phenomenal growers in Texas.”

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August 2017 — Issue II

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