Published July 26, 2018
Caring for the one that carries you Find out why horses need their hooves pampered, Page 2
July-August 2018
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Why horses need their hooves pampered
n the surface, it seems almost foolish that a horse should be shod with a hard, metal disk on each of its hooves. After all, if animals were meant to wear shoes wouldn’t we see cheetahs wearing running sneakers or dogs donning boots? Although it may seem odd, horseshoes provide protection to animals who are used as working horses. Working horses are those that are asked to carry riders, pull farm equipment and do different tasks that a wild horse does not. There are distinct differences between domesticated working horses and their wild counterparts, which is why domestic horses are fitted with shoes. In the wild, horses walk long distances to find acceptable grazing pastures. Trekking so far across different types of terrain naturally hardens the horses’ hooves. Furthermore, eating wild vegetation provides certain nutrients essential to strengthening hooves and keeping them healthy. Domestic horses walk far less than their wild cousins. Also, commercial feed provided to them does not have the same level of nutrients necessary to properly strengthen hooves. The added weight of riders or gear can put strain on horse hooves. To help alleviate that, different horseshoes are used depending on the type of work the horse does. The person who does shoeing on a horse is called a farrier. The farrier’s tools and apron have remained unchanged for years. The farrier often goes to the horse to do his work. Shoeing can be done hot or cold, but the cold process requires horseshoes be custom-made at another location. Hot shoeing allows the farrier to custom mold
shoes on the premises. While the horse shoeing process may look painful for the horse, in essence it’s just like getting a pedicure. An experienced farrier knows what to do to make a horse comfortable and prevent any pain. Here’s a general synopsis of what’s done with a shoeing. 1. The old shoe is removed by straightening the clenches, or the nails that have been bent to secure the shoe. Once straight, the shoe is removed with pincers. 2. The farrier then trims, levels and
cleans the hoof with cutters and a rasp. 3. The farrier will then take one of his variety of horseshoes that will be a close fit for the hoof and heat it (in hot shoeing) in a forge. The hot shoe is placed up against the horse’s hoof to determine if modifications must be made. 4. The shoe is worked and reworked until the shape is ideal. This may take several go-arounds. 5. The new shoe is then nailed to the hoof. Most of the time seven nails are used, and they are driven toward the outside of the hoof so part of the nails poke through. The excess is cut off and the top part of the nails are bent down to form clenches. There are many different types of horseshoes for particular tasks. These include shoes for trail riding, jumping, racing, and even therapy for horses that may otherwise go lame. Although shoeing has many advantages, the fact remains that nails must be driven
into the hoof, which can damage some of the fibers of the horn. Shoes also confine the hoof to one shape, preventing it from naturally being able to flex under weight. Inexperienced farriers may hurt a horse by causing pain or damaging tender tissues in the foot. All in all, working horses generally benefit from wearing shoes. Many people find that watching a farrier at work is a spectacle worthy of witnessing.
Lucky horseshoes
Horseshoes have long been thought to bring good luck. Some people believe that the horseshoe has to be hung with the ends pointing up to catch and store luck, while others think the ends should point down to spill the luck on all in the home. Horseshoes are considered lucky because they were originally made of iron, which was thought to be magical due to its strength and ability to withstand fire. Blacksmiths who made the horseshoes were thought to heal the sick and also carry magical powers, which they may have passed onto their horseshoe creations.
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Some Observations from The Front Porch
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ne thing for sure, it’s been blazing hot weather—with little end in sight. More and more cattle folks are starting to feed hay. It’s awful early to start using up what is a limited supply. If you need hay, get it bought as soon as possible. Not a lot is being offered for sale. And prices are going up, and up. Some is being sold for up to $90 a round bale. Anyway you cut it, feeding expensive hay to cattle that are getting cheaper by the day can be a ruinous experience. Culling the old cows along with pulling calves early can help even though it hurts. With September right around the corner, some farmers are
starting to think winter pastures. If we get moisture next month and on into fall overseeding with ryegrass or planting small grains on tilled ground could be a lifesaver and maintain cattle numbers. One idea being considered is planting cowpeas for livestock grazing. Dr. Gerald Smith, at the Overton Center, has developed a new cowpea named “Ace” that fits much of East Texas. Ace can be planted now and within a few weeks—with rain— should be ready to graze through November. Smith said Ace is not grown for the dinner table but for livestock grazing and hay making. It also provides lots of browse for wildlife. Ace, said
Smith, is an improved version of the old iron and clay cowpeas many farmers have planted for decades. With pastures drying up the danger of wildfire seems to increase daily. Most of our counties are under burn bans limiting outside burning. It might be a wise decision to hook on to the disc and plow a firebreak around the pastures and the hay storage stacks whether in a barn or outside. Losing valuable forage to fire and the pain of locating replacement bales could be costly! Then there is the old standby-ryegrass. It can be overseeded alone or with fertilizer. With
moisture, and early planting, grazing can start by early fall. It’s a gamble but with the shortage, and price, of hay it could be a way out. Cost is not excessive and most of the needed fertilizer can be applied early next year. Some forward thinkers add turnip seed or radish seed to the ryegrass mix. Thought for the week: One old timer says the reason Mayberry was so peaceful and quiet was because nobody was married. Andy, Aunt Bea, Barney, Floyd Howard, Goober, Gomer, Sam, Earnest T. Bass, Helen, Thelma Lou, Clara and, of course, Opie were all single. The only married person was Otis—and he stayed
drunk! That’s –30– horace@valornet.com
Grasshoppers abound in Texas summers By Rich Flowers
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Athens Daily Review
t’s not unusual to take a step in an East Texas pasture this time of year and see the area spring to life with leaping grasshoppers. Henderson County AgriLife Extension agent Spencer Perkins said the insect does damage every year and can become more destructive during peak periods. “Outbreaks are usually preceded by several years of hot, dry summers and warm autumns,” Perkins said in a press release. This year, high temperatures and no rain can precede large numbers of grasshoppers, Perkins said. A way to tell if an infestation is high is by the square-foot method. Simply count the number that hop in a square foot. Perkins gives this formula for determining if the grasshoppers are at a threatening level: Grasshopper infestation levels can be estimated by surveying for nymphs or adults. In the area to be sampled, count the number of grasshoppers that hop or move within a square-foot area. With 15 to 20 paces between each square-foot sample, conduct 18 square-foot samples and divide the total number of grasshoppers by two to obtain the number per square-yard. If grasshoppers are predominantly first to third instar, (wingless and generally less than half an inch long), divide the number by 3 to give the adult equivalent. Consider fourth instar nymphs and above as adults. Control will generally be necessary when square-yard counts reach the threatening level of 21 to 40 in the margins or 1 to 14 in the field. When the grasshopper populations reach the point they can cause economic damage, or when the crops are threatened, Perkins said a treatment program may need to be considered. A county agent or agriculture product retailer can recommended insecticides. Perkins said the female grasshopper can lay an average of 200 eggs in a season. Under favorable conditions, the female grasshopper can lay as many as 400 eggs. Voted Under unfavorable conditions, that number can shrink to 40. “With an average of 200 eggs per female, Pharmacist 198 eggs or young grasshoppers would have to die if the population were to & remain the same,” Perkins said. “If Pharmacy instead of only two adults surviving, there are four, eight, 10 or 50, then 2018! Layne Vannoy ~Best Pharmacist the adult population the following year will be increased respectively.” THANK YOU East Texas had several severe outbreaks in 2011, but wet weather in 2015 and 2016 slowed TO OUR
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Getting the army under control Cherokee County Ag Extension Office
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e on the lookout for armyworms in your pasture and hay fields. Armyworm caterpillars can be identified by examining the front of the head capsule. They have light-colored markings along the seams (sutures) of the “face” that appear as an upside down Y. Other common species of armyworms in Texas include: The “true” armyworm, the beet armyworm, the fall armyworm, and the variegated cutworm. When feeding, larvae strip foliage and then move to the next available food. High populations appear to march side by side to the new food. Armyworms attack many different kinds of plants. When food is scarce, they will move to plants not normally attacked. Thus, armyworms can be found on nearly any plant as they migrate in search of edible foliage. Plants attacked by armyworms include: fescue, grain and forage sorghum, corn, small grains, sweet potato, beans, turnip, clover, spinach, cucumber, potatoes, tomatoes, cotton and cabbage. Fall armyworms are green, brown, or black in color. They have a distinct white line between the eyes that forms an inverted “Y” pattern on the face. Armyworms are very small at first; however, they grow fast and consume large quantities of forage as they grow. Armyworms consume 80 percent of their total food intake during the last few days of development. They are called armyworms because they appear to march across a pasture, hay field, or lawn consuming the grass in their path. Armyworms, when fully mature, measure 3/4 to 1 inch long. The key to managing armyworms is to detect the infestation before they have caused economic damage. Infestations of two to three armyworms per square foot may justify treatment. These caterpillars feed at night and early morning on fertilized forage or grass species. Walk out into your grass early in the morning with rubber boots while the grass is still wet
July-August 2018
with due. If the worms are present, you will see them on your boots. Armyworms are usually more of a problem in bermudagrass field or lawns; however, they will also invade many other types of grass or plant species as well. Another sign you may have an armyworm infestation is a large number of cattle egrets or what many call “cow birds” walking in your pasture or field with no cattle present. The cattle egrets may have detected the presence of armyworms. Scout your fields to determine how many worms may be present. Detected early control measures can prevent economic losses to your forage or other crops. Control options include mowing the grass or hay to remove the food source, but this does not always fix the problem. As the grass greens back up, small worms can sometimes be seen and insecticide control may be warranted. Insecticides with active ingredients such as carbaryl, chlorantraniliprole, malathion, zetacypermethrin, spinosad, methoxyfenozide, lambda-cyhalothrin, and diflubenzuron will control armyworms. Be sure to read and follow all label recommendations for application and control of armyworms in pastures and hay fields. The density of armyworms sufficient to justify insecticide treatment will depend on the stage of crop growth and value of the crop. Seedling plants can tolerate fewer armyworms than established plants. Infestations of two to three armyworms per square foot may justify treatment. Hot, dry weather normally limit armyworm populations but we have already had reports of infestations in Cherokee County. Insect parasites such as wasps and flies, ground beetles, and other predators help suppress armyworm numbers. However, these natural enemies can be overwhelmed when large numbers of migrating moths lay thousands of eggs in a field. In heavy infestations, other control methods may be warranted as natural predators of armyworms may not be able to reduce numbers to keep economic losses from occurring.
By Gabe Saldana
gabe.saldana@ag.tamu.edu DALLAS — A novel gene editing approach could hold the key to broad-spectrum disease resistance in certain staple food crops without causing physical detriment to the plants, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientist. Dr. Junqi Song, AgriLife Research plant pathologist in Dallas, explores how a “knock-in” gene editing approach might achieve better disease resistance in a wide range of crop plants. His team places special focus on addressing late blight disease in tomato and potato. The Texas grown crops are part of a nearly $6 billion national production value, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture data. “Most successes with broad-spectrum disease
Researcher’s gene editing approach seeks broad spectrum crop disease resistance
resistance so far have resulted from knockout gene editing, where certain genes are switched off to cause desired behaviors in a subject plant,” Song said. “But successes from knockout editing come at a cost to many other aspects of the plant’s physical health and other characteristics.” As an alternative to switching genes off, Song’s team, using an emerging technology known as the CRISPR/ Cas9 system, will introduce, or knock in, a specific set of genetic regulators. He believes the regulators discovered by his team will allow disease resistance to increase without harming the subject plant. “By comparison, the knock-in approach is a much more complicated process than knockout,” Song said. The introduced systems would work by helping the plant’s existing disease resistance genes to express more hardily against attacking pathogens. The wide range of
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pathogens targeted by Song’s broad-resistance approach include phytophthora infestans, which causes late blight, a devastating disease in tomato and potato, he said. He added any discoveries made through his research would carry disease-resistance implications for a number of food crops including wheat, rice, cotton, strawberry, carrot and citrus. “There is a growing demand for agricultural production as global populations continue to grow,” he said. “We will need to develop increasingly efficient systems to meet this demand and hopefully our work is a step in the right direction.” Contact Song for information about ongoing gene editing research at Dallas by visiting https://dallas.tamu. edu/research/plantimmunity/.
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THE ROPER’S RULE As I look back on my career, it never did exist. I tried to ride the broncs and bulls, I truly did persist But I never won a buckle. Oh, second now and then So now that I’ve got older I’m a roper, born again. But somehow things are still the same. In fact, they’ve gotten worse! There has to be a reason why I never come in first. Well, friends, there is. It’s sad to say. I learned it yesterday. I was entered in a jackpot and pressin’ all the way. McIntire was in the lead and in the finals go His heeler single-hocked their steer and dallied up real slow I made a National Finals run that left the crowd in awe And when the dust had settled Mac and me had fought a draw! We gathered ‘round the judge to see how they would break the tie. I got to wonderin’ if them rules of Dress Code should apply. I pointed out that McIntire was wearin’ tennis shoes! And decked out like a refugee embarking on a cruise.
Why, his ratty tee shirt said, EIGHT SECONDS AIN’T THAT GREAT! If that’s no violation then there’s none to violate! The judge thumbed through his rule book to attempt to clear the fog. I hung on to his pant leg like a broken hearted dog. “Oh, please pick me! I never win. There’s always somethin’ wrong. The timer’s clock was faulty or the handle was too long. My horse was old, my rope was new, the flagger was too slow. He ducked his head, he drug his feet. Ya listenin’ Judge? Hello? “It’s not my fault. It never is. The sun got in my eyes. My hat blew off, my dally slipped, I wasn’t synchronized!” He continued to ignore me as I knelt there in the dirt. “You can have my stamp collection, my brand new Trevor shirt.” I offered him my wife and kids, I’d nothing left to lose But he finally paid attention when I threw up on his shoes. He turned to McIntire and said, “He’s right. You get no time.” I skipped a beat! ‘By dang,’ I thought, ‘I’m ‘bout to hit my prime!’
After years of grim donations and payin’ for the ride I was gonna win a buckle. It felt so good inside, The judge looked down at me and said, “Yer gettin’ second place. By rights that buckle should be yours but you’re a special case. You fall within the Roper’s Rule. No matter how you try Yer doomed to be an also-ran, unlucky kind of guy I could ignore your conduct but I’m stickin’ to my guns. In rodeo like real life...You whiners chafe my buns.”
What’s the beef with cultured meat? By PennyLynn Webb
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Palestine Herald-Press
s beef grown in a lab really beef? I recently saw a video on social media made by University of Arizona, Maastricht University, NASA, MIT, VideoHive, and Envato about scientists growing a form of cellular agriculture - in vitro meat. Labeled as “cultured” or “clean” meat, the product is produced from the stem cells of a healthy adult cow. The film postulates that, in theory, one cell could grow an infinite amount of meat. In 2013, Mark Post, professor at Maastricht University, was the first to showcase an in-vitro lab grown meat by creating the first lab-grown burger patty. The science behind vitro cultivation of muscular fibers, however, began as early as 1971. First, a small sample of muscle is taken from a live animal. Along with muscle cells, satellite cells are present in muscle tissue of animals. Satellite cells are adult stem cells or progenitor cells that can grow into the different types of cells found in muscles. The cells are fed nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, turning them into muscle cells. After the cells have multiplied, they are encouraged to form strips, just as natural muscle cells form fibers in living tissue. The resulting tissue can be cooked and consumed as boneless processed meat. There is no genetic engineering; so the meat is not a GMO. Researchers suggest so-called clean meat may be healthier for consumers, as cultured meat producers can control what kind of fat goes into the meat. Producing meat with healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, which have protective effects for the heart, among other health benefits. Because the world’s population is expected to reach 9 billion by 2050, the demand for meat could l double. Researchers believe cultured meat is the key to meeting the world’s meat demand. The race is on to make the first affordable cultured meat products that could be available in stores as early as the end of the year. Cultured meat has not yet been commercialized. It is questionable whether consumers will accept cultured meat as meat. The success of this product depends on public
acceptance. To gain pubic trust, scientist say they’re trying to make the process as transparent as possible. For consumers to be onboard, cultured meat will need to have a similar appearance, taste, smell, and texture. Clean meat might also help reduce food-borne illness. Most meat contamination occurs during the slaughter, and clean meat does not involve slaughter. Environmentalist also believe the process could reverse the effects of climate change: one study predicts it could lower harmful greenhouse emission by 96 percent, and use 99 percent less land and 82 percent less water than traditional methods of growing meat . In an article with the Amarillo Globe-News, Ty E. Lawrence, Ph. D. was skeptical the product will ever hit supermarkets. Lawrence is a professor of Animal Science with Texas A&M University. “The consuming public will very unlikely be large buyers of this,” said Lawrence. “I’m skeptical cultured meat will ever go mainstream. I’m skeptical it will ever be more than a science fad.” The taste and texture of the meat will differ because they won’t come from a living animal with actively moving muscles. “If someone were to get that far, the public is going to be disappointed because the cells are going to have the texture of Jell-O,” Lawrence said in the article. “If you have a burger but a mushy texture, it’s unlikely that it will be appealing in texture or taste.” Photo courtesy of Reuters/David Parry
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easy ways to conserve water
Every living thing on the planet requires water to survive. Without water, life as we know it would quickly perish. Despite the importance of water, many do not think ahead to what would happen if water supplies dwindled. To avoid such a fate, it’s best to begin conserving water whenever possible. Though estimates vary, most people use between 80 to 100 gallons of water each day. So many daily necessities require water use. By making a few changes here and there, it’s possible to considerably reduce the amount of water we waste each day.
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Adjust sprinklers so that only the lawn and shrubbery are watered -- not the driveway or sidewalks. Or invest in a drip hose that waters the roots only and saves water.
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Invest in rain barrels that can collect water from downspouts on the home.
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Water in early morning and early evening to avoid evaporation from the hot sun.
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Shorten showers by a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons of water per person, per month. A waterefficient showerhead can reduce water consumption by 75 percent. A taller lawn shades roots and reduces the need to water the grass more frequently.
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Use leftover water from pet bowls to water plants instead of tossing it down the drain. Put water-saving aerators on all faucets in the home. Avoid water recreation toys that require a constant flow of water.
Switch toilets to low-flow toilets & turn off the tap when brushing your teeth.
Take precautions in summer heat Jacksonville Progress Staff Reports
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ummertime means picnics, barbecues, time at the lake, sports and, above all, hot weather. While some East Texans may be used to the heat, there are many risks the weather can bring, both to one’s health and to one’s home. According to information from Allison Hale of the Cherokee County Public Health Department, approximately 175 Americans die every year from extreme heat. “Extreme heat kills by pushing the human body beyond its limits. Under normal conditions, the body’s internal thermostat produces perspiration that evaporates and cools the body. However, in extreme heat and high humidity evaporation is slowed and the body must work extra hard to maintain a normal
temperature,” stated a document emailed by Hale. The information also listed the elderly, sick and overweight as especially atrisk of overheating. It said men are more at risk than women, as they sweat more and therefore dehydrate faster. Sunburns also lower the body’s ability to release heat. Those living in urban areas are even more susceptible to overheating than people in rural areas, according to Hale. This is due to materials like concrete and asphalt storing more heat and keeping the temperature in urban areas higher. People on certain medications as more susceptible to overheating than others, as well. People on psychotropics, medications for Parkinson’s disease, tranquilizers and diuretic medications should consult a medical professional about any heat-related risks their medicine might have. According to the Texas
Department of State Health Services, common symptoms of heat-induced illness include “heavy sweating, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, nausea, weak but rapid pulse and headaches.” The department recommends anybody with these symptoms should find a cool, shady place immediately and slowly drink water. Overheating for a long period of time can lead to heat stroke. Heat stroke is a life threatening condition, and those affected by it should be given medical attention immediately. It is brought on by overheating and the body not being able to replace fluids soon enough. Symptoms, according to the health services department, include extremely high body temperature, red and dry skin, rapid pulse, confusion and/or brain damage, and loss of consciousness. Anybody found suffering from heat stroke should be brought to
somewhere cool and shady, be cooled off by fanning them and providing water, and emergency medical services should be called at once. People are not the only ones in danger of heatrelated illnesses. Animals can overheat, too, and just as easily as humans, according to Tonya Harris with the Jacksonville Animal Shelter. People traveling with pets should always have water, bowls and towels with them. She also said hot concrete can burn dogs’ feet just as much as peoples’. She recommended people not walk their dog on the concrete unless they have special shoes. Another issue she spoke about was leaving pets in vehicles. “Do not leave your animal in the car,” she said. “Just five minutes in the car, with the windows barely cracked … If it’s 88 degrees outside it will be 100 degrees in the car in a matter of minutes.” If a pet does overheat,
Harris said to get them to a vet as soon as possible. In the meantime, they should be cooled off by patting them down with towels, fanning them, and providing room temperature water. Harris emphasized to use room temperature water and not ice water. Cooling a pet down too quickly can send them into shock, the same as a person. Livestock owners should also make sure their animals are protected from
the heat and sun. According to www. drovers.com, “providing shade and cool water helps reduce productivity losses
and makes livestock more comfortable. As the days get hotter, animals spend less time grazing and drink more water.” Overheating causes animals to go off feed, and increases their heart and respiration rates, and severely affected animals can become weak and unable to stand, while extremely elevated temperatures (over 107˚ Fahrenheit) can result in death, the site added. And, it stated, “heat
stress can impair weight gain and cause reproductive failure, especially in males. It can also suppress the
Hot Weather Tips • Keep water as cool as possible. Erect a shade over a water trough or tank. • Provide access to a mineral and salt supplement, preferable in loose rather than block form. Livestock do not need electrolytes added to their water. Electrolytes are lost by humans from sweating, but most livestock do not sweat. • If you must shear sheep, do so in the spring so the wool has a chance to grow a bit. Sheep with about an inch of wool are cooler than freshly shorn sheep, and they are less likely to get sunburned. • Avoid working animals in the hottest part of the day. Increased activity can overheat already hot bodies and cause heat stress.
immune system, resulting in outbreaks such as pneumonia during hot weather.” Another important part of summer safety is the home. Hot, dry weather creates good conditions for fires to start. Jacksonville Fire Chief Keith Fortner recommended that everybody “increase their situational awareness” during hot summer months. He said to keep lawns watered, and any dry or dead plants near homes should be cleared away. He said that fires follow the path of least resistance, and dry brush is a good fuel for it. Fortner also recommended
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that anybody who grills outdoors always double check that their grill is turned off and cooled before leaving it. Also, anyone who smokes should make sure their cigarette is completely out before throwing it away. Fortner also added that anybody living outside city limits should check with their county commissioner about any county burn bans or temporary water restrictions before burning anything. “As a reminder, there is no burning inside the city limits of Jacksonville,” he said.
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July-August 2018
Wind as a sustainable energy option
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s both businesses and private citizens continue to look for alternative sources of energy to help the environment, wind continues to generate a back and forth discussion as to its efficacy as an energy solution. While there are pros and cons to wind, it’s also important to note there are certain myths and misconceptions about wind that can cloud the discussion. Before discussing the advantages and disadvantages of wind, it’s helpful to examine certain elements of the argument that might be more rooted in myth than fact.
Myths About Wind Turbines
Benefits of Wind Turbines
Disadvantages Of Wind Turbines
One of the more commonly cited issues surrounding the use of wind turbines to generate energy is their potentially harmful effects on avian life. In reality, wind turbines are much less harmful to birds than felines. According to HealthLink, a nonprofit organization dedicated to informing individuals about environmental risks to human health, studies have shown that wind turbines may be responsible for 1.5 to 2 deaths per year in most areas. Cats, on the other hand, are responsible for 8 to 10 bird deaths a year in most areas. Another myth with regard to wind power is the safety risk of wind turbines should weather turn severe. While this was once a genuine concern, as wind turbine technology has evolved, the safety risk has decreased significantly. Today’s wind turbines are designed to prevent them from being active in severe weather, meaning there is essentially no turbinedrelated risk to surrounding residents should a storm occur. In addition to safety concerns, some homeowners are worried that wind turbines will increase their property taxes. This concern is rooted in fact, but not necessarily costly to homeowners. Wind turbines often do increase property value because they represent a means for homeowners to produce long-term income. However, the majority of land-lease agreements include provisions stating that the wind developer will cover any additional property taxes that result from the installation of a wind turbine.
Arguably the greatest benefit of wind turbines is their environmental impact. Once the turbine has been constructed, its environmental impact is minimal. Wind turbines produce zero emissions, meaning there will be no CO2, sulfur, particulates, or nitrogen oxide entering the atmosphere from wind turbines. And because environmental conditions have been linked to a host of medical maladies, it’s safe to say wind turbines could help improve human health. Another benefit of wind turbines is the potential financial benefits to homeowners who agree to lease their land to wind developers. While the amount a homeowner can earn depends on the size of the wind turbine and how productive it is, projects in Minnesota and Iowa saw landowners earn between 2 and 4 percent of the turbine’s annual gross revenue. For a turbine that earns $200,000 per year in gross revenue, that’s an annual payment of $2,000 to landowners, a hefty windfall for homeowners, particularly in today’s economy. Reduced energy loss is another potential benefit of wind turbines. Energy is often lost via transfer through energy lines, with some estimates suggesting as much as 50 percent of all total energy is being lost to energy line transfers. Locally produced power, however, is much more efficient.
One of the more widely cited disadvantages to wind turbines is the noise they create. Large-scale wind turbines, at the peak of their production, can be very noisy. However, today’s turbines are much less noisy than those of yesteryear, often being compared to the noise generated from a modern refrigerator. In fact, the wind generated from today’s turbines often drowns out the noise generated from the turbine itself. The cost of wind turbines is commonly considered the greatest disadvantage. This isn’t a great concern for homeowners, as most wind turbines are owned by investors who then lease lands once the turbine has been built. However, the tenuous nature of the economy has led many investors to more closely examine where their money is going, and some investors might question if wind turbines are the best way to invest their money. Safety also must be considered when considering the installation of a wind turbine. Large turbines could pose risks in areas with frequent air traffic. That’s a genuine concern in rural areas, where small personal aircrafts are often employed for farming purposes. To learn more about wind power, visit the Environmental Protection Agency at www.epa.gov.
Texas A&M scientists researching cotton, weeds S
College Station, Texas (AP)
cientists at Texas A&M University are hopeful they’ve developed the kryptonite for what’s been a losing battle against herbicide-resistant weeds now choking cotton fields across the southern U.S. The San Antonio Express-News reports if it works as well in the San Angelo test field as it has in a campus greenhouse, the technology could prove revolutionary to a crop that in some regions has become vulnerable to weeds that have developed resistance to three generations of pesticides. Through a painstaking process, the A&M scientists successfully introduced a genetic trait that allows cotton to thrive in soil that has been enriched with phosphite, which has one less oxygen atom than the phosphate used in traditional fertilizers. Because the weeds don’t have the same trait, they are essentially starved of nutrients. For decades, the magic formula was to spray fields full of cotton genetically engineered to resist herbicides, such as Roundup, and then watch the weeds dutifully die. But nature started mutating the weeds so they, too, resisted the chemicals. The result has farmers spending some $9 billion a year in a desperate search for the right mix of older and newer weed killers. In the Mississippi Delta, 60 to 70 percent of the weed populations have developed three-way resistance. Farmers are struggling to keep up. “If this technology had come along 20 years ago people would say, ‘Why bother? You’ve got Roundup,’” said Kater Hake, vice president of agricultural & environmental research for the industry group Cotton Inc. “Yeah, well, Roundup doesn’t work now.” Hake referred to the new technology as the “Superman” of weed control, a mighty successor to Monsanto’s glyphosate-based Roundup and others. “We have not had a new herbicide mode of action since the early ‘80s,” Hake said. “We got a new mode of action approximately every year for about 30 years and since then it’s just been flatlined.” In Texas, the nation’s leading cotton-producing state, the commodity contributes an estimated $24 billion a year to the economy. In addition, Hake said, cotton is seeing a resurgence in demand as both a natural fiber and one that’s better for the environment than petroleum-based polyester. The ptxD gene that allows absorption of phosphite was first isolated by William Metcalf of the University of Illinois. A Mexican research team then patented the concept of introducing the gene into plants to make them more competitive against weeds in the field. An A&M team led by Keerti Rathore has been
taking the technology to cotton plants. Unlike easily modified “plant mice” such as tobacco or arabdioxis, cotton is a slow-growing, complex plant and notoriously hard to genetically transform. During a recent tour of the temperature-controlled lab, Rathore showed petri dishes full of cells that take an average about 10 months to produce a plantlet. From the plantlet, it can take another year to grow a plant with a root system strong enough to survive in the greenhouse and produce seeds. Each month, research associate LeeAnne Campbell transfers cell cultures known as calluses to new nutrient-rich mediums, visually editing out contaminants or undesirable growths. “It’s kind of like a treasure hunt,” she said. “You’re always looking for the right colors and the right textures.” Validation came in the greenhouse. Weed scientist Muthu Bagavathiannian had no trouble finding herbicide-resistant pigweed, which can produce up to a million seeds per plant compared to cotton’s 200 to 300. Cotton lacking the gene pioneered at A&M got crowded out by the weeds in fields where the soil was fertilized with phosphate. But transgenic cotton grown on phosphite-fertilized soil grew nicely while the weeds did not. “It is a very simple yet elegant technology that has the potential to revolutionize agriculture as we know it,” Rathore said. The greenhouse plants are now producing the seeds for the next step, which will be on a carefully controlled field in San Angelo. The field was chosen because it is naturally low in phosphorous, as a high-phosphorous field would feed the weeds and defeat the purpose. That won’t be a problem in most parts of the world because phosphorous is in dangerously short supply. Current stores of the vital element are closely guarded in a few places, including Morocco, China and Florida. European scientists have been looking for ways to reclaim phosphorous from animal and human waste. For most U.S. farmers, the problem has been overuse. “Our farmers put too much fertilizer on their fields, nitrogen and phosphorous in general,” Rathore said. “I think for us to kind of really utilize this technology we’ll have to kind of wean the farmers off, using less and less.” His hopes for the technology are threefold: farmers will be able to spend less on inputs including fertilizers, herbicides and water otherwise getting “stolen” by the weeds; phosphorous in the form of phosphate will be depleted at a slower rate; less of
the nutrient will wash off into waterways, where it contributes to algae blooms plaguing the world’s oceans and great lakes. He’s also confident the technology will work in other crops. Phosphite fertilizers will need to become more readily available, but Rathore said there are companies ready to step up to sell it. Phosphite is already used in potato production, as it inhibits the fungi that caused late blight and, in the 19th century, Ireland’s Great Famine. This is not Rathore’s first foray into the genetically modified cotton world. About a decade ago, his team made headlines for removing a toxin from cottonseed and making the seed a valid, high-protein animal feed. Countries including India and Mexico, which are typically resistant to genetically modified crops, have been receptive to the technology. “That will be maybe the fifth product developed by a public institution that has gone to that level,” Rathore said. “Most of these GMO products are developed by companies like Monsanto, Bayer, Syngenta and so on.” The long-term challenge will be making sure growers use a mixed-bag approach to reduce the likelihood that weeds will eventually mutate their way toward being able to feast on phosphite. Nature has outsmarted GMO technology by mutating the very site that the herbicide targets or by copying the target sites so many times that the herbicide can’t adequately attack. “If you just imagine like a lock and key, you’ve got to have the right combination to be able to open it,” said Bagavathiannian, the weed scientist. “ ... Nature changed the locks.” The new technology involves not so much an attack approach as a genetic change to the plant’s metabolism, and the researchers said it would be unlikely weeds would generate a similar change on its own. “In order for them to be able to do that, one of the genes will have to have several stretches of mutations in that gene,” Rathore said. “That is unlikely to happen.” But it’s not outside the realm of possibility, and farmers will have to be careful to use it as part of a multifaceted resistance management program. Jimmy Roppolo, general manager of the United Agricultural Cooperative cotton in Danevang, about 80 miles south of Houston, said weeds are the biggest problem facing producers. “You know everybody thought the answer to the world’s problems was Roundup-ready cotton, you could spray it with Roundup, a very safe herbicide, and actually destroy everything but the cotton,” he said. “But the weeds found their way.”
July-August 2018
East Texas Farm & Ranch Living
8
Support Agriculture Businesses... They are the Heartbeat of Our Economy
Cooper puts together top ride in Calgary By Brett Hoffman
Special to the Athens Review
W
hen Tuf Cooper backed into the box to position himself for his final round tiedown roping run at the Calgary Stampede, the world’s top rodeo cowboy knew exactly what he had to do. Cooper, the sport’s defending world all-around champion, was the last competitor to rope in
the four-man final because he had won the 10-man semifinal round earlier during the Sunday afternoon (July 15) performance in Calgary, Alberta. Caleb Smidt, the 2015 world tie-down roping champion, had taken the lead during the final with a time of 7.1 seconds. With that in mind, Cooper knew he had to make an exceptional run. “I knew I had to give it my all, but slow down and be smooth,” Cooper
said. Cooper, who has residences in Decatur and Weatherford, clinched the title with a blistering time of 6.8 seconds. Cooper earned $100,000 (Canadian) for clinching the title during the final round. He also pocketed $13,500 during the prelims. All in all, Cooper left Calgary with $113,500 in total earnings ($86,306 in USD). Each single event winner left the Calgary Stampede with a $100,000 check ($76,039 USD), plus their earnings from the finals qualifying performances. Cooper was among four Texans who earned a $100,000 winner’s check at the Calgary rodeo. The other three were barrel racer Hailey Kinsel of Cotulla (with a final round time of 17.078 seconds), bareback rider Richmond Champion of Dublin (with a final round score of 92.5) and steer wrestler Matt Reeves of Cross Plains (4.7 seconds). Other 2018 Calgary champions were saddle bronc rider Ryder Wright of Milford, Utah (93 points) and bull rider Marcos Gloria, a Brazilian who resides in Edmonton, Alberta (76 points).
Cowboy Christmas
Photo courtesy of Metro Creative
Defending PRCA world champion bareback rider Tim O’Connell finished as the top money winner during Cowboy Christmas when there’s an abundance of higher paying rodeos on or near the July 4 holiday. According to ProRodeo Sports News, O’Connell earned $31,094 throughout Cowboy Christmas. Saddle bronc rider Chase
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Ponoka and earned $13,540 (Canadian). Two-time National Finals qualifier Stevi Hillman of Weatherford clinched the barrel racing title in Ponoka and pocketed $19,342.
Together again
Brooks finished as the second highest earner after receiving $30,769. Trevor Brazile, a 23-time world champion from Decatur, earned $23,714. Tuf Cooper pocketed $19,792. Kory Koontz, a 21-time National Finals qualifier, earned $21,204 in team roping heading. Koontz is a former Sudan resident who currently is from Stephenville. In the Women’s Professional Rodeo Association, six-time NFR qualifier Tammy Fischer was the leader. She earned $29,133 in barrel racing, according to wpra.com. According to the PRCA, the 2018 Cowboy Christmas included rodeos with at least one performance within July 1-10. The PRCA sanctioned 30 rodeos that offered competitors more than $3.9 million. Some of the higher paying rodeos were in Ponoka, Alberta, Greeley, Colo., St, Paul, Ore., Cody, Wyo., and Prescott, Ariz. For example, Brazile snared the tie-down roping title in
When the PRCA sanctioned the 2018 Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo last weekend in Colorado Springs, Colo., it meant the two organizations had gotten back together. The PRCA and the Pikes Peak or Bust Rodeo had a partnership for many years, but the two organizations parted ways in 2014. But this year, the two organizations reunited, partially because of the negotiating skills of George Taylor, the PRCA’s new chief executive officer. Jeff Askey, a 2016 Wrangler National Finals Rodeo qualifier from Athens, clinched the bull riding title on Saturday, July 14. He’s ranked 10th in the PRCA’s 2018 bull riding title race with $61,229 in regular season earnings.
Brazile roping tough
Trevor Brazile clinched the allaround title at the Sheridan Wyo. Rodeo, a standout Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association show last weekend in Sheridan, Wyo. Brazile earned $12,648 in tiedown roping, team roping and steer roping. Brazile is ranked second in the PRCA’s 2018 world all-around title race with $104,756. Tuf Cooper is ranked No. 1 with $131,377. Brett Hoffman, a Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame member, has reported on rodeos for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram for more than three decades. Email him at bchoffman777@earthlink.net.
July-August 2018
East Texas Farm & Ranch Living
9
Support Agriculture Businesses... They are the Heartbeat of Our Economy
From Scratch with Love Grilled Shrimp Tacos with Avocado-Corn Salsa
Total time: 45 Minutes makes 6-8 servings Fast and easy grilled shrimp make a lighter alternative to meaty taco fillings. Toss them quickly in spicy chipotle powder, cumin, and lime juice, then grill to develop a flavorful char. Stuff them into warm corn tortillas, top with a fresh avocado-corn-tomato salsa, and wash it all down with an ice-cold beverage. Serve pineapple or mango sorbet to complete this light, tropical meal.
Ingredients
For the salsa: • 4 ears white or yellow corn, shucked • 4 medium scallions, thinly sliced (white and light green parts only) • 3 medium tomatoes, cored, seeded, and cut into small dice • 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice (from about 2 medium limes), plus more as needed • 2 tablespoons finely chopped
Instructions
For the salsa: Remove the corn kernels from the cobs. Add the scallions, tomatoes, measured lime juice, cilantro, serrano, and measured salt and stir to combine. Halve and pit the avocados. Using a spoon, scoop the avocado pieces into the corn mixture and gently fold to combine. Taste and add more lime juice or salt as needed; set aside.
fresh cilantro • 1 serrano chile, stemmed and finely chopped • 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more as needed • 2 medium avocados
• 4 teaspoons chipotle powder • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt • 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin • 2 pounds peeled and deveined large shrimp (about 45 shrimp) • 10 (12-inch) skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 For the tacos: minutes to avoid them burning • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed on the grill) lime juice (from about 2 medium • 16 grilled or warmed corn limes) tortillas • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Prepare and grill the shrimp: 1. Heat an outdoor grill to high (about 450°F to 550°F). Meanwhile, assemble the shrimp. 2. Whisk the lime juice, oil, chipotle powder, salt, and cumin together in a large bowl. Add the shrimp and toss to combine. 3. Skewer each shrimp through the tail and head ends, leaving about 1/4 inch of space between each shrimp. Transfer the skewers to a baking sheet. 4. Place the skewers in a single layer on the grill without touching. Close the grill and cook until grill marks appear on the bottom, about 4 minutes. Flip the skewers, close the grill, and cook until the shrimp are just firm, about 1 minute more. Transfer the skewers to a clean baking sheet. 5. Remove and discard the skewers, transfer the shrimp to a cutting board, and coarsely chop. Place in a serving bowl. 6. Serve the shrimp with the tortillas and salsa.
Shrimp Tip: Shrimp like to breathe or they start to get smelly. To avoid foul seafood, you’ll first want to store your shrimp in the coldest part of your fridge. If the shrimp was purchased in a bag, open the bag and place a paper towel over the top. Transfer the bag to a bowl of ice and use within two days.
Recipe by Christine Gallary via Chowhound
East tExas stock PricEs
ANDERSON COUNTY LIVESTOCK
EAST TEXAS LIVESTOCK INC.
Updated: 07/18/2018 Head Count: 337 Buyers: 26 Sellers: 38
Updated: 07/17/2018 Headcount: 1500 Feeder Calf Buyers: 42 Sellers: 183
STEERS
STEERS
200lb - 300lb
1.40
1.90
300-DOWN
$140
$210
300lb - 400lb
1.32
1.89
305lb - 400lb
$135
$190
400lb - 500lb
1.25
1.73
405lb - 500lb
$120
$173
500lb - 600lb
1.20
1.57
505lb - 600lb
$115
$167
600lb - 700lb
1.10
1.45
605lb - 800lb
$110
$151
700lb - 800lb
0.95
1.37
200lb - 300lb
1.35
1.80
300-DOWN
$125
$202.50
300lb - 400lb
1.27
1.75
305lb - 400lb
$115
$170
400lb - 500lb
1.20
1.73
405lb - 500lb
$100
$158
500lb - 600lb
1.10
1.55
505lb - 600lb
$95
$147
600lb - 700lb
1.00
1.30
605lb - 800lb
$83
$147
700lb - 800lb
0.80
1.20
HEIFERS
HEIFERS
SLAUGHTER
SLAUGHTER
Cows
0.35
0.62
Cows
$43
$67
Bulls
0.60
0.84
Bulls
$78
$86
PAIRS
$850
$1300
PAIRS
$950/PR
$1,428/PR
BRED COWS
$600/hd
$1200/hd
STOCKER COWS GOATS
$575hd
$1200hd
$45hd
$150hd
TRI-COUNTY LIVESTOCK MARKET Updated: 07/21/2018 Head Count: 1187
STEERS UNDER 300lb
1.50
2.10
300lb - 400lb
1.50
2.05
400lb - 500lb
1.45
1.70
500lb - 600lb
1.35
1.55
600lb - 700lb
1.20
1.50
700lb - 800lb
1.15
UNDER 300lb
NACOGDOCHES LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE
HUNTS LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE
Updated: 07/19/2018 Head Count: 793 Buyers: 50 Sellers: 121
STEERS
ATHENS COMMISSION COMPANY
Updated: 07/16/2018 Head Count: 1158
STEERS
Updated: 7/20/2018 Head Count: 1188 Sellers: 203
STEERS
UNDER 300lb
1.40
2.05
200lb - 299lb
1.00
2.10
300-DOWN
1.30
2.10
300lb - 400lb
1.27
2.02
300lb - 399lb
1.00
1.94
300lb - 400lb
1.00
2.00
400lb - 500lb
1.15
1.75
400lb - 499lb
1.00
1.68
400lb - 500lb
1.00
1.70
500lb - UP
1.00
1.61
500lb - 599lb
1.00
1.55
500lb - UP
0.80
1.60
1.32
600lb - 700lb
N/A
N/A
600lb - 699lb
1.00
1.52
HEIFERS
700lb - 899lb
1.00
1.39
300-DOWN
1.25
1.85
1.30
1.60
UNDER 300lb
1.30
2.00
HEIFERS
300lb - 400lb
1.00
1.65
300lb - 400lb
1.30
1.55
300lb - 400lb
1.20
1.68
200lb - 299lb
1.00
1.48
400lb - 500lb
0.80
1.55
400lb - 500lb
1.30
1.45
400lb - 500lb
1.10
1.61
300lb - 399lb
1.00
1.54
500lb - UP
0.70
1.45
0.80
1.45
400lb - 499lb
1.00
1.57
SLAUGHTER
N/A
N/A
500lb - 599lb
1.00
1.52
Cows
0.30
0.60
600lb - 699lb
1.00
1.52
Heavy Bulls
0.70
0.86
1.00
1.29
PAIRS
HEIFERS
HEIFERS
500lb - 600lb
1.15
1.39
500lb - UP
600lb - 700lb
1.05
1.33
600lb - 700lb
700lb - 800lb
1.00
1.28
SLAUGHTER Cows
SLAUGHTER
0.30
0.57
700lb - 899lb
Cows
0.35
0.61
Bulls
0.58
0.84
SLAUGHTER
Heavy Bulls
0.72
0.82
PAIRS
$850
$1400
Cows
0.30
0.68
Low-Middle
$1350
STOCKER COWS
Bulls
0.63
0.77
PAIRS
$550
$1270
PAIRS BABY CALVES STOCKER COWS LOW-MIDDLE
$1000 NA $550hd $750
NA
GOATS
$1125hd
BABY CALVES
$975
HORSES
$650hd
$1150hd
$40hd
$150hd
$25
$150
STOCKER COWS
N/A
N/A
BABY CALVES
Top
$235hd NA
$1000
$1350
$700
$1000
STOCKER COWS
0.55lb
1.10lb
GOATS
$35hd
$210hd
$25hd
$250hd
$150hd
$750hd
$1,160hd
BABY CALVES
NA
HORSES
East Texas Farm & Ranch Living
10
Support Agriculture Businesses... They are the Heartbeat of Our Economy
July-August 2018
Draw hunts
TPWD launches 2018 public hunt schedule, first deadline approaching By Matt Williams
J
Outdoors Writer
ust about anybody who hunts big or small game is sure to appreciate the idea of a high quality hunting experience for a price that won’t break the bank. Perhaps that explains the continued popularity of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s drawn hunt program, which recently began taking applications for the upcoming 2018-19 hunting seasons. The on-line operation is like one stop shopping for shots at good hunting trips with exceptional values. Application fees for most hunts range $3-$10. Successful applicants are usually required to pay a hunt fee of $80-$130, but some hunts, including Youth-Only hunts, require no application fees or hunt fees. That’s a bargain price considering many of the hunts last for multiple days (some as long as nine days) on managed properties with abundant game and limited hunting pressure. In some cases liberal bag limits may allow hunters to fill several tags. Each year, the draw program offers hunters the opportunity to enter drawings for permits in dozens of hunt categories for variety of game including white-tailed deer, mule deer, pronghorn antelope, dove, alligator, turkey, waterfowl, squirrel, quail, javelina, feral hogs and several exotic species. There also a desert bighorn sheep permit available when August population surveys are favorable. Hunts are held on state-owned wildlife management areas, state parks, federal wildlife refuges, U.S. Forest Service properties and select private tracts all around the state. Some allow hunters to use firearms, while others are designated as “Archery Only” hunts. There also are several “Youth Only” hunts on the list. The drawn hunt program has become increasingly popular in recent times, largely because of expanded hunting opportunities, more available permits and relaxed rules that allow hunters to apply for multiple hunts in the same category
instead of limiting them to one. Another positive is convenience. In 2014-15, an on-line only application process replaced the antiquated paper application/hunting booklet format TPWD had relied on for years. The move made it much easier for hunters to apply while saving TPWD a bundle in printing and postage costs. The number of applications for about 4,800 permits doubled from 50,000 to 100,000 the first year the on-line application system was put in place. Last year, the program generated an all-time high 155,000 applications for the nearly 9,500 permits in 50 different categories. The lottery-style drawings are open to resident and non-resident hunters who meet application deadlines for preferred hunts. Successful applicants are decided by random computer draws. As many as four hunters may be included on the same application for many hunts. If an application is drawn, everyone in the group gets to hunt provided they pay the permit fee.
New Options, Rules in 2018
In early July, TPWD unveiled a long list of draw hunt options for the upcoming hunting seasons. It includes special permit hunts and E-Postcard selection hunts for multiple species, National Wildlife Refuge hunts for deer and exotics and U.S. Forest Service land hunts for antlerless deer. There are several new big game hunting opportunities in the mix, including the first ever special permit hunts for Sambar deer, Axis deer and white-tailed deer on the new Powderhorn WMA along the Texas coast in Calhoun County. There also will be a youth archery deer deer hunt at Palmetto State Park. The menu also features a pair of new additions in the private lands dove hunt category, which will award 160 permits for September hunts hosted by seven select outfitters on prime dove hunting country. There is a $10 application fee, but no hunt
Photo courtesy of TPWD
Greg Bludau of Bryan/College with a 128 7/8 net typical he arrowed last season on the Gus Engling WMA near Palestine. Bludau took two other TBGA whitetails on different WMAs during TPWD public draw hunts in 2017, according to TPWD wildlife biologist Jeff Gunnels. fee will be charged. Hunters should make note of the upcoming Aug. 1 application deadline for all private lands dove hunts, as well as the alligator, pronghorn and youth deer hunting categories. Aug. 15 is the deadline for archery deer, exotic, and javelina. Other deadlines will follow on the1st and 15th of each month. There are couple of rule changes draw hunt applicants should be aware of: * Hunters must have a current Annual Public Permit ($48) before applying for E-Postcard hunts and U.S. Forest Service antlerless hunts. APH permits go on sale Aug. 15, the same days 2018-19 hunting/ fishing licenses. * Youth hunters are limited to three applications per hunt category.
Making the Choice
Photo courtesy of TPWD
Wildlife biologists at Gus Engling WMA say there are some good deer in the woods this year based on what they are seeing on game cameras used to monitor wildlife populations. Applications are currently being taken for draw hunts in a variety of categories that will play out on public lands all around the state during the 2018-19 hunting seasons. The first deadline is Aug. 1.
You can browse all of the hunt categories, hunting areas and available packages online at the TPWD’s public hunting program website, tpwd.texas. gov/huntwild/hunt/public/public_hunt_ drawing/. In addition to hunt dates, bag limits and deadlines for each hunt, you can learn about permit availability, baiting rules and whether or not hunting blinds are available. The number of applicants and success rates from the previous season also are listed, along with a link to other frequently asked questions. Not surprisingly, some hunts are more popular than others. Those held on areas known for abundant game, liberal limits or producing trophy animals always get plenty of attention. A good example is the Chaparral WMA in South Texas. The 15,200-acre unit is always the frontrunner among whitetailed deer hunters. Located in La Salle and Dimmit counties, “The Chap” is well known for producing numbers of quality bucks and an occasional giant. The biggest
buck from the WMA in recent years is a 172 3/8 non-typical killed in 2015 by crossbow hunter Bill Sillman of Ganado. Last year, there were 4,149 applications for 26 available permits in the gun/deer either sex category. Those hunters enjoyed a success rate of 61 percent. Another 2,115 hunters applied for 100 permits in the Archery Only category and had a success rate of 19 percent. The 11,000 acre Gus Engling WMA and 13,700 Richland Creek WMA, both near Palestine, are among the most popular areas in eastern Texas. Both WMAs produce a fair number of quality bucks each year, and the waterfowl hunting can be outstanding during years with ample water. Last year, 1,702 permits were issued for E-postcard waterfowl hunts at Richland Creek, where hunters registered a 100 percent success rate. As deer hunting goes, the Gus Engling hunters killed four bucks last season that qualified for the Texas Big Game Awards Program. Jeff Gunnels, the TPWD wildlife biologist who oversees the unit, says he is expecting to see more of the same this season if hunting conditions are favorable. Gunnels says his staff has running about 30 game cameras to monitor wild turkey and feral hog populations on the WMA. In recent weeks, the cameras have photographed at least a dozen good quality bucks that most hunters would proud to tag. “It should be a good year,” Gunnels said. “We know there are some nice deer out there.” Much the same could be said several other public hunting areas around the state. Matt Williams is a freelance writer based in Nacogdoches. He can be reached by e-mail, mattwillwrite4u@yahoo.com.
Five Texans to cast for $300,000 prize at FLW Cup F
ive Texas bass pros, including four from the eastern half of the state, are among the 56 qualifiers set to compete in the 2018 Forrest Wood Cup scheduled for Aug. 10-12 on Lake Ouachita in Hot Springs, Ark. Texans on the list are Jordan Osborne of Longview, James Niggemeyer of Van, Todd Castledine of Nacogdoches, Jeff Sprague of Point and Clark Wendlandt of Leander. The ‘Cup is the year-end championship hosted by Fishing League Worldwide, better known as FLW. It will bring together the top 40 points qualifiers from the 2018 FLW Tour, the 2017 FLW Tour Angler of the Year, the 2017 FLW Cup Champion, the 2018 FLW All-American champion and 13 other qualifiers from other FLW circuits. The field will compete for a top prize of $300,000 on the scenic 40,000-acre reservoir
Todd Castledine Nacogdoches, TX 1st-time qualifier
Clark Wendlandt Leander, TX 18-time qualifier
built on the Ouachita River in the Ouachita Mountains. Lake Ouachita has host three previous FLW Cup championships, including the 2007 event that went down as richest bass tournament in history. Arkansas native Scott Suggs won the event and earned an unprecedented $1 million cash. Daily takeoffs will be held at 7 a.m. at Brady Mountain Resort and Marina, while weigh-ins begin at 5 p.m. at Bank of the Ozarks Arena in Hot Springs. There will be an outdoor expo beginning at 10 a.m. each day at the Hot Springs Convention Center. The expo will feature boats, motors, fishing tackle and other wares related to the industry. For more info and updates, flwfishing.com.
James Niggemeyer Van, TX 1st-time qualifier
Jeff Sprague Point, TX 5-time qualifier
Jordan Osborne Longview, TX 1st-time qualifier
July-August 2018
East Texas Farm & Ranch Living
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12
East Texas Farm & Ranch Living
Support Agriculture Businesses... They are the Heartbeat of Our Economy
July-August 2018
Brothers take charge of Lake Striker Resort Jacksonville Progress
T
Staff Report
he Lake Striker Resort has new management. Brothers Leonard and Herman Nicol took the reins at the resort, including its restaurant, RV park and pier in early March. Leonard is the owner while Herman handles the day-to-day management of the resort. They have been renovating the restaurant, they said, which has been open for the past two weeks. They are currently expanding the dining area and plan to add an outdoor patio for customers to enjoy. They also plan to repaint the restaurant’s sign in the near future. “We’re trying to get everything upgraded,” Herman said. “It’s a work in progress, finding out what people want and which direction they want you to go.” Besides the restaurant, Lake Striker Resort offers several other attractions. Herman said that fishing is very good in the lake this time of year, especially for crappies. There are also several nearby RV stations and motel rooms for overnight guests. Music lovers will also be happy to know that the resort has a concert stage, as well, and will be put to good use through the summer. On May 26, according to the resort’s Facebook page, Jeremy Bowley and the Legal Limit Band will be performing there. Other bands to perform later in the summer include the John Hord Band and The Lacs. The restaurant offers a scenic view of Lake Striker as well as a wide variety of food. The menu ranges from salads, to fish, to burgers to barbecue. 18560 County Road 4256 “When they eat here, they get a good view of the lake,” Reklaw, TX 75654 Leonard said. “We have a fishing pier, and all the RV spots. The restaurant’s back open and the convenience store’s back open, and we sell all kinds of baits. It’s all around, you know, everything’s right here.” Lake Striker Resort’s restaurant is open Wednesdays Wednesday-Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Learn more by visiting their Facebook page at “Lake Striker Resort.” On the Net:
Lake Striker Resort 903-854-2404
www.lakestrikeresort.com