Nebraska Extension will offer a comprehensive three-part webinar series titled “Fundamental Knowledge for Successful Calving Season.” The live webinar will be offered on January 8, 13, and 15, from 7:30 – 8:45 p.m. CT, and will conclude with an interactive in-person workshop offered in four different locations on January 21-23. The event will provide invaluable information for farmers, ranchers, and veterinary professionals involved in the calving process.
Webinar Series Topics:
January 8—Understanding Normal: The discussion includes the stages of labor, what happens to the cow and calf during delivery, recognizing and managing abnormalities, and when and how to assist delivery.
January 13 - First 24 hours: post-calving care for cows and calves. Reviewing normal vitals for the cow and neonatal calf and recognizing and managing complications in the first hours of life, including the importance of colostrum management.
January 15 - 48 hrs and Beyond: Keeping cow and calf healthy and thriving. Topics include nutritional requirements, common health concerns, and managing environmental stress in the first 2 months of life.
Each webinar will be co-led by Dr. Becky Funk, DVM, Animal Health Teaching and Nebraska Extension Specialist,
PRODUCTION SALES
Jan 20 - 25, Schriefer Red Angus, Online ................................................... A3
North Dakota State University Extension, in collaboration with South Dakota State University Extension and the Adams County Soil Conservation District, will host the No Wires, No Limits: Exploring Virtual Fencing workshop at the Hettinger Research Extension Center (HREC) on January 28, 2025.
“Producers interested in adopting precision livestock
Torgerson, Martin to headline MFU Women’s Conferences
Montana Farmers Union has announced Megan Torgerson as the keynote speaker for the grassroots farm organization’s Eastern Montana Women’s Conference and April Martin as the keynote for the Western Montana Women’s Conference.
The popular women’s conferences are scheduled for January 31-February 2 in Malta and February 7-9 in Fairmont and focus on professional and personal growth for rural women. Participants hear from dynamic speakers and enjoy time networking with other women passionate about family farms and ranches and rural communities. The events also include time in hot springs and Montana-sourced food.
Torgerson will present in Malta. Originally from Dagmar, Torgerson is a writer, farmer’s daughter, and founder of the award-winning podcast Reframing Rural, which does the much-needed work of challenging stigmas around rural places by uplifting working
people, history, and culture that don’t always get the spotlight. She holds an MFA in Arts Leadership from Seattle University and a BA in English with a creative nonfiction emphasis from the University of Montana. After eight years living out of state, Torgerson returned to Montana in 2023 to further her mission of advocating for rural and agricultural communities through media production and nonprofit consulting. She lives in Bozeman with her husband and son.
Martin, who will present in Fairmont, is a firm believer in the power of women and community. She leads programming aimed to inspire and support all on this journey called life. She was raised on her tribal homelands in Southeast Montana, where she now raises fat, happy cows. She also acts as an ambassador of Native culture.
Register for one – or both – of these events today at https://montanafarmersunion.com/ news-events/womens-conference/. Scholarships are available. Apply when registering.
Wickens Salt Creek Ranch was honored with the Leopold Conservation Award. Pictured are (left to right): David Bailey—Sand County Foundation, Kendall Morgan –Winnett ACES, Emma and Eric Wickens and Stacey Barta—Rangeland Resources Program. See article on A10 of this issue.
and Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension Livestock Educator, allowing participants to engage and ask questions.
The series will hold In-Person workshops with hands-on training from January 21 to 23. Participants will practice their skills using a life-sized cow and calf model. This opportunity will provide practical experience in a supportive environment, ensuring participants leave with confidence and competence.
In-Person Workshop opportunities:
January 21 - Box Butte County Extension Office. 415 Black Hills Avenue Alliance at 6 p.m. MST
January 22 - Sandhills Public School. 107 Gandy Ave Dunning at 1 p.m. CST
January 22 - Oconto Community Center. 101 W 6th S Oconto at 6 p.m. CST
January 23 - Blue Hill Community Center. 555 W Gage St, Blue Hill at 6 p.m. CST
The registration fee is $80 for the webinar series plus the workshop. The workshop is only $30. Register at https:// cvent.me/3YDblK
NDSU Extension to host virtual fencing workshop
CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
technologies will hear from leading experts on key research utilizing this technology and from an interactive panel of progressive producers and virtual fencing experts,” says Aspen Lenning, NDSU Extension agent in Adams County. “Participants will also learn about the ins and outs of software management, technology implementation and proper collar placement with a live demonstration.”
The workshop will begin at 10 a.m. MST at the new HREC Livestock Lab located at 106 1st Avenue West, Hettinger, North Dakota.
“As ranchers continue to look for the most efficient way to run their operations, fenceless grazing is becoming a more realistic option,” says Lenning.
“Adopting new livestock technologies can be challenging,” says Rachel Gibbs, NDSU Extension livestock specialist at the HREC. “Our goal with this program is to provide producers with all the information they need to successfully implement these technologies and build a network of professionals to help them along the way.”
To register for the No Wires, No Limits: Exploring Virtual Fencing workshop visit ndsu.ag/virtualfencing. Registration is due by January 17.
For registration questions, contact Aspen Lenning at 701567-2735.
DEADLINE FOR FEBRUARY ISSUE
Wednesday, January 29
##### Knock, knock. Who’s there? Lettuce.
Lettuce who?
Lettuce in, it’s cold out here!
NDSU Extension Land and Livestock Forum
Producers and agricultural professionals from across the western Dakotas and eastern Montana are invited to join the 2025 Land and Livestock Forum, hosted by North Dakota State University Extension on January 15. The event will take place at the Biesiot Activities Center on the campus of Dickinson State University in Dickinson, North Dakota.
This year’s forum is a combined event, merging the popular Diversity, Direction and Dollars Forum with the Agriculture Livestock Forum to deliver a comprehensive lineup of speakers and discussions. Topics will range from soil acidity management and herbicide-resistant weeds to financial strategies, innovative technologies and sustainable production practices.
The event features two keynote speakers:
Amanda Radke, The Heart of Rural America podcast host, is a fifth-generation rancher and advocate for rural America. Radke will share her experiences and insights on preserving agricultural profitability and ensuring a robust, diverse food system.
Carley Garner is a renowned commodity market analyst and co-founder of DeCarley Trading. Garner, a frequent guest on CNBC’s Mad Money and Bloomberg Television, will explore strategies for using market tools to hedge price risks in today’s volatile commodity markets.
Presenters and topics include:
Darrell Oswald, Burleigh County Soil Conservation District – Implementing the Five Soil Health Principles
Josh Hammond, FarmAssist Consulting – You Think You Have a pH Problem, Now What?
Charlie Lim, NDSU Extension – Weed Herbicide Resistance and Stewardship of Weed Control Tools
Steve Saunders, Bridger AgVentures, LLC – Ventenata: A Beast That Can Steal Your Ranch
Logan Vandermark, South Dakota State University – Incorporating Technology into Livestock Production Systems
The presentations will provide attendees with actionable strategies for enhancing productivity, cutting costs and addressing emerging challenges in farming and ranching.
Registration opens at 9:30 a.m. MST, and the $30 fee is payable at the door and covers all materials, lunch and refreshments. CEU credits will be available.
For more event information, including a detailed agenda, visit ndsu.ag/landlivestock.
2025 Crop production clinics
By Bob Wright, UNL Entomology Professor Emeritus, and Chabella Guzman, PREEC Communications
Nebraska Extension will begin its Crop Production Clinics on Wednesday, January 8, at the UNL Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff. The clinics will feature live presentations and present research updates, and information tailored to regional crop issues and grower interests.
Bob Harveson, Nebraska Extension pathologist, will present on a study he is working on with the Nebraska Dry Bean Commission. “We’re looking for disease control of root rot by putting various fungicide products on the seed (dry bean). To evaluate whether that will help the crop just get started.”
The study will enter its third year without much disease pressure from the past few years. “This year, we are going to put Rhizoctonia in the field. Hopefully, we can induce enough disease to evaluate the treatments we’re using.”
The clinics, sponsored by Nebraska Extension, will be held for eight days throughout January. The final clinic, offered in partnership with the Nebraska Agribusiness Association Expo, will be held on Tuesday, January 28, at the Younes Conference Center in Kearney. Admission to the Expo tradeshow will be free.
Visit https://agronomy.unl.edu/cpc/ to register, for an agenda and more information.
Pre-registration is required and costs $95.Certified Crop Advisor credits will be available in crop production, nutrient management, integrated pest management, soil and water management.
Pesticide Applicator Recertification
The clinics will offer commercial and non-commercial pesticide applicators an opportunity to renew their licenses in the general standards, ag plant, and demonstration/research categories. The clinics also allow private pesticide applicators to renew their licenses.
For more information, contact Bob Wright, the clinic’s coordinator and Entomology Professor Emeritus, at 402472-2128.
Visit https://agronomy.unl.edu/cpc/ to register. Questions can be directed to Connie Hansen at 402-472-8747.
NDSU Feedlot School 2025
North Dakota State University’s Carrington Research Extension Center will hold its annual NDSU Feedlot School on January 22-23, 2025.
This intensive course is for cattle producers, feeders, backgrounders, feed industry personnel, animal healthcare suppliers and anyone else who is interested in learning more about feedlot production, nutrition, waste management and marketing.
“Cattle feeding is a very competitive business,” says Karl Hoppe, NDSU Extension livestock systems specialist at the center. “Making cattle feeding profitable is usually a result of doing many things right, not just one thing better.”
The Feedlot School helps identify areas for improvement, ranging from feed bunk management to health to business planning to marketing.
“The regional cattle experts who teach at the school provide a good overview of management for North Dakota feeders, and the outreach or interaction with the participants continues for years after the school,” says Hoppe.
Feedlot School topics are the following:
Why feed cattle in North Dakota?
Facility design and equipment
Budgets for different cattle feeding scenarios
Cattle requirements and feeding
Beef Quality Assurance
Implants
Cattle financing
Feed additives
Ration formulation
Feed nutrient analysis and feed testing
Feedlot diseases and treatments
Facility management
Bunk reading and feed delivery
Manure and nutrient management
Livestock market outlook
Price protection with hedging and LRP
Alternative market programs
Carcass quality and marketing on the grid
The school also will include a commercial feedlot tour and a tour of the center’s livestock facilities.
Instructors include faculty from NDSU’s Department of Animal Sciences, Department of Agribusiness and Applied Economics and the Carrington and Central Grasslands Research Extension Centers, as well as others who have extensive experience working with northern plains feedlots.
For registration information and an agenda of events, visit ndsu.ag/feedlot-school25. The registration fee is $200 per person and includes meals, but not lodging. Participants must make their own lodging arrangements.
For more information about the course topics or to be placed on a waiting list for next year’s Feedlot School, contact Karl Hoppe at 701-652-2951 or karl.hoppe@ndsu.edu.
The Carrington Research Extension Center is 3.5 miles north of Carrington on U.S. Highway 281.
Looking back at 2024
By Daren Redfearn, UNL
As the new year begins, it is important to look back at pasture and forage production conditions to understand what to focus on for the coming year. Stick around and I’ll reflect on forage and pasture production conditions in 2024.
As of late October, much of Nebraska was in moderate to extreme drought. The exception was in southwest Nebraska with approximately 13% of the range and pastures in good to excellent condition. This compared with 63% across much of the remainder of the state being in poor to very poor condition. Like 2023, managing forage and pasture production during drought conditions was also the story for 2024.
The eastern third of Nebraska began dry again this year. In some areas, this meant that forage and pasture production has been below average for two years.
There were other areas where timely summer precipitation resulted in sustaining summer forage and pasture growth. The central part of Nebraska, including the Sandhills, fared much better than other areas of the state. Timely precipitation in April, May, and June resulted in good grazing conditions and hay production.
Thankfully, some areas received rain this fall, but it was too late to provide much forage growth. The bottom line is that pasture and forage production could be challenging, especially during early 2025 for eastern Nebraska and the Nebraska Panhandle.
Golden Triangle Barley Seminar
By Tyler Lane, Chouteau County Extension Barley producers are encouraged to mark Thursday, February 13, 2025, on their calendar for the Golden Triangle Barley Update. This event happens only once every three years, and features some of the industry’s top professionals. The meeting will be held at the Pondera Shooting Sports Complex (972 Granite Rd, Conrad), with registration beginning at 8 a.m. and the meeting running from 8:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. There is no fee to attend, and the day will be worth one private/commercial pesticide applicator credit as well. The seminar will include updates on a variety of production, marketing, and industry topics. Dr. Jamie Sherman, Montana State University (MSU) Barley breeder will give an update on the barley varieties and barley breeding program at MSU. Industry representatives from Malteurop, Coors and Anheuser-Busch InBev will cover industry barley varieties. Hannah Uhlmann from the MSU barley, malt and brewing lab will present malt specifications and how they are utilized. Jim Beusekom from Market place Commodities in Lethbridge, Alberta, will discuss the marketing of off grade barley. Ashley McFarland from American Malting Barley Association will share, “Thinking Critically about the Future of Barley.”
Mitch Konen, Vice President of National Barley Growers Association will update producers on the status of the Farm Bill and Kera Birkland, Montana Grain Growers Association Director of Policy will share pertinent policy updates as well. Katelin Standley from Anheuser Busch, Cody Shick from Molson Coors, Mark Black from Malteurop, Jeff Farkell from Centroll Corp Consulting LLC, Sam Anderson from Malteurop, and Dave Tweet from Tweet Consulting will conclude the meeting with a Malting Barley Industry Panel. Producers will have the opportunity to get their questions answered relative to the barley industry.
Lunch will be provided courtesy of the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee. An RSVP by February 6 to the Pondera County Extension Office at (406) 271-4054 or is required for the meeting.
Thank you to local representatives from Centroll Crop Consulting, Malteurop, Coors, Anheuser-Busch InBev, Molson Coors, American Malting Barley Association, MSU Extension, and Montana Wheat and Barley Committee for their contributions and sponsorships.
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In 1938 Yang Kyoungjong, an 18-year-old Korean, was drafed into the Japanese army to fight the Soviet Union. In 1939 he was captured by the Soviets, sent to a labor camp and, in 1942 forces to fight in the Soviet army against the Germans. In 1943 he was was captured by the Germans and forced to fight in the German army aginst the Allies, making him a veteran of three different armies in a single war.
##### Fortune favors the bold. – Virgil
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AUCTION
Sunday, February 2, 2025 at 10 am at RLP Sale Barn, Hamilton, MT 31/2 miles north of Hamilton on Hwy 93
Preview: Saturday, Feb. 1st - 12:00 - 5:00 pm
These items are being auctioned through I Collector. You may bid in-house or online. Go to rplauctions.net to register for online bidding.
Fundamental knowledge for a successful calving season
Nebraska Extension will offer a comprehensive three-part webinar series, Fundamental Knowledge for Successful Calving Season. The live webinar will be offered January 8, 13, 15, from 7:30 – 8:45 pm CST and will conclude with interactive in-person workshops offered in four different locations January 21-23, 2025. This engaging event will provide invaluable information for farmers, ranchers and veterinary professionals involved in the calving process.
Webinar Series Topics:
Wednesday, January 8, 2025: Understanding Normal. Discussion includes stages of labor, what happens to the cow and calf during delivery, recognizing and knowing how to manage abnormal, when and how to assist delivery.
Monday, January 13, 2025: First 24 hours: post-calving care for cows and calves. Reviewing normal vitals for the cow and neonatal calf and recognizing and managing complications in the first hours of life, including the importance of colostrum management.
Wednesday, January 15, 2025: 48 hrs and Beyond: Keeping cow and calf healthy and thriving. Topics include nutritional requirements, common health concerns, and managing environmental stress in the first 2 months of life.
Each webinar will be co-led by Dr. Becky Funk, DVM, Animal Health Teaching and Nebraska Extension Specialist and Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension Livestock Educator, allowing participants to engage and ask questions in real-time.
In-Person Workshop: The series will culminate in a hands-on workshops offered at four locations across the state January
21-23, 2024, where participants can choose the most convenient date and location to practice their skills using a life-sized cow and calf model. This unique opportunity will provide practical experience in a supportive environment, ensuring participants leave with confidence and competence.
Details of the Series:
Webinar Dates: January 8, 13, 15, 2025
Time: 7:30 – 8:45 pm CST
Location: Online (link provided upon registration)
In-Person Workshop opportunities: January 21, 2025. Box Butte County Extension Office. 415 Black Hills Avenue, Alliance, NE,. 6 p.m. MST
January 22, 2025. Sandhills Public School. 107 Gandy Ave Dunning, NE, 1 p.m. CST
January 22, 2025. Oconto Community Center. 101 W 6th S Oconto, NE, 6 p.m. CST
January 23, 2025. Blue Hill Community Center. 555 W Gage St, Blue Hill, NE, 6 p.m. CST
Registration Fee: $80 for webinar series plus workshop, $30 for in-person workshop only.
Register at: https://cvent.me/3YDblK
Webinar participants will receive a notebook of Nebraska Extension resources and access to the recorded webinars to view at their convenience. A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.
For more information about the Calving College webinar series and workshop, please contact Dr. Lindsay Waechter-Mead at 402-746-3417 or lindsay.waechtermead@unl.edu
Hilger ranchers honored with Leopold Conservation Award
Emma and Eric Wicken, Wickens Salt Creek Ranch in Hilger, received the 2024 Montana Leopold Conservation Award® during the 105th Annual Montana Farm Bureau Convention in Billings. The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. The Wickens received a crystal plaque and $10,000 (photo on front page of this issue).
The Wickens returned home to take the reins of Eric’s family’s Wickens Salt Creek Ranch in 2007. They have since prioritized conservation practices to improve the health of their grasslands. Doing so nourishes their cattle and builds a more resilient ranch and rural community for their five children.
Rotationally grazing their Black Angus cattle contributes to nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. With assistance from the federal Conservation Stewardship Program, prairies have been restored for livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Elsewhere on their 4,700 acres they grow a diverse rotation of peas, barley, hay, and wheat using no-till practices. A mix of sunflower, turnip, sorghum, and radish cover crops maintains continuously living roots in the soil to improve water infiltration and increase soil health.
While accepting the award at the November 20 luncheon, Emma Wickens said, “Conservation is not an island on its own, it’s a partnership with nature, communities that come together around nature and
the future generations we plan for. We’re excited and energized to continue learning about how we can improve our conservation practices that increase diversity and respect for balance on our ranch: the cycle of land, water, wildlife and community. Thank you, Montana Farm Bureau for hosting this recognition at your annual event and all you do to help farmers and ranchers in Montana.”
Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Montana the award is presented annually with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Montana Rangeland Resources Program. Applications are currently being accepted through March 3, 2025. The Montana Range Tour will be held June 18 at Wickens Salt Creek Ranch. For more information on the Leopold Conservation Award visit mtrangelands.org.
#####
Cats use their whiskers to communicate. Whiskers held out to the side indicate calmness or friendliness. When they’re pointed upward, the cat is alert or excited. Backward-pointing: Look out - that’s defensive or angry cat.
NDSU Extension
Western
Soybean Days
Soybean disease management, variety updates and weed control research will be among the topics at the 2025 Western Soybean School Days on February 18 in Minot, North Dakota, and February 19 in Dickinson, North Dakota. Each day the school begins at 8:30 a.m. and concludes at noon, with lunch provided at each location.
Hosted by North Dakota State University Extension, the schools are designed to provide updates on soybean production and soil fertility, and insect pests, weeds and disease management to soybean farmers and crop advisers.
Locations: February 18 — Conference Room, North Central Research Extension Center, 5400 Highway 83 S, Minot, North Dakota
February 19 — Stark County Family and Ag Resource Campus Office, Dakota Room Door C, 2680 Empire Rd, Dickinson, North Dakota
Agenda:
Agronomy and soybean variety updates
Soybean disease management and research updates
Weed control research updates
Soil fertility and nutrient management
Insect control and research updates
Soybean market/production outlook
Continuing education units (CEUs) for Certified Crop Advisers are offered on the day of the event in both locations.
The schools are free to attend, but registration is required for a meal count. Register to attend at ndsu. ag/soybeanschool.
These events are sponsored by the North Dakota Soybean Council.
Perry went out with the club pro for a round. When they finished and were on their way back to the clubhouse, Perry asked, “What do you think of my game?” The pro thought for a minute and replied “Honestly, I would shorten your clubs by two inches.” “Do you really think that would improve my game?” the man asked excitely. “Not really,” said the pro, “But it will help to fit them into the trash can.”
The advertising deadlines for the Trader's Dispatch is usually the Wednesday BEFORE the 1st Monday of the month.
COW EFFICIENCY AT ITS FINEST:
good gentle attitude with a set of feet and legs that will serve her until she exits your program at a ripe old age.
v We are your source for homozygous black and polled Simmental, SimAngus™, Angus genetics, the top 150 bulls out of 275 sell.
v Many ½ & ¾ brothers sell in volume enabling you to assemble like bred genetics that are predictable and consistent.
v From a program that does the day-to-day work. We calve, feed, and work around our cattle every day, so we know our cows if they become problematic. They won’t
v
v
v
Raising cattle that work for the cow-calf producer, the feeder, and the packer, while providing an enjoyable eating experience for the consumer should be every cattle producer’s goal. Ranchers work hard and should expect their cattle to do the same. There are no shortcuts with today’s high inputs; your cattle have to be profitable and efficient. Blending EPD and genomic traits requires discipline, common sense, and patience. It doesn’t matter how impressive the EPD are or the size of calf at weaning. Cattle that lack efficiency and require extra labor and costly inputs are not desirable. This is why common sense and an experienced eye still play a major role in ever y breeding decision we make. EXTREMES ARE EASY TO ACHIEVE.
AND A LIFETIME OF
TO PERFECT.
Two-year-old heifer
Sensibly sized and efficent
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Humans have not revisited the Moon since the Apollo 17 mission of December 1972.
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The Apollo 17 astronauts could taste the fine moon dust. They called it the “Apollo aroma.”
By Ben Beckman,
UNL
Choosing the right protein may help bring the cost of feed down and more accurately meet the needs of our cattle. In some rations, alfalfa might be that choice.
Whether cattle are on winter range, corn stalks, or being fed prairie/grass hay, they often will need extra protein in their diet. Protein sources vary in cost and effectiveness. Protein is important because it is used by the rumen microbes to help break down low quality forage and then used by the animal itself as microbial protein as they pass through the digestive tract. It’s essentially used twice.
Many times, alfalfa is one of the cheapest natural sources of protein. It’s easy to use and doesn’t require additional equipment. Nonprotein sources of nitrogen such as urea may be cheap but won’t be as effective with low quality forage as rumen microbes need additional energy to turn the urea nitrogen into protein the animal can use. Alfalfa hay on the other hand is highly digestible, feeding both the animal and rumen, often increasing consumption of low-quality feeds.
To be effective, alfalfa should be used as a supplement, not the whole diet, with only enough fed to overcome the deficit in protein the cow has from its current diet. A forage test along with knowing the requirements of the class of animal you are feeding, and consumption rate can be used to determine just how much additional protein will be needed.
Some winter diets such as winter range, corn stalks, or grass hay may require quite a bit of additional protein supplementation. While supplementing regularly may seem daunting, research has shown supplementing protein 3 times weekly is just as effective as daily supplementation as long as requirements are being met.
Feeding the right amount and choosing the right protein for your needs can save money. Alfalfa might just be the golden ticket.
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The ancient Moon’s atmosphere likely contained carbon monoxide, sulfur, and water.
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Although the Moon typically appears gray, dust particles in the air can make it appear blue.
Dietary plan for steers
BULLS OF THE BIG SKY
By Lisa Moser, K-State Research and Extension news service
Many people maintain a garden in the summer and enjoy eating the bounty of their homegrown produce. Similarly, cattle producers raise freezer beef for themselves and to share with family and friends.
On a recent Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute Cattle Chat podcast, a listener asked how to take an 850-pound steer to finish weight on the farm
“Finished in this context means when the steer is reaching physiologic maturity, so they have adequate fat cover on them and they are also depositing intramuscular fat,” said K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.
He defines a finished steer to have about one-half inch of backfat over the rib, and their body condition score will be around eight or nine.
With a starting weight of 850 pounds and a goal end weight of around 1,350 pounds, Lancaster said that steer will need to gain about 500 pounds in about 150 days -- making it about 5-6 months before that steer will be ready for processing.
“With home-raised steers, we have to be a little more cautious than with feedlot animals because they are getting grain and free choice hay separately,” Lancaster said. “We are trying to keep them from experiencing acidosis and other digestive issues.”
He recommended the 850-pound steer be offered 10 pounds of grain-protein mix per day to start with and then increase that amount to 20 pounds per day at halfpound increments every 2 days. After that, he advises increasing the amount of grain-protein mix offered by one-half pound per month for 2 months, then hold the amount of grain-protein mix offered steady until the steer reaches the optimum finish.
“With that feeding strategy, I’m trying to get him to a diet that is 15% roughage and 85% grain and protein mix,” Lancaster said.
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I told my son I was named after Thomas Jefferson.
He said, “But Dad, your name is Brian” I said, “I know, but I was named AFTER Thomas Jefferson.”
#####
Daughter: “Nothing rhymes with orange.” Dad: “No it doesn’t.”
MATE bull pen preview
The 48th annual Montana Agri-Trade Exposition (MATE Show) will again feature the Bull Pen Preview, February 20-22, 2025 at MetraPark. Registration is now open for cattle breeders to participate in this year’s showcase.
The MATE show is the largest agricultural trade show in Montana drawing over 10,000 people last year from across the region. The Bull Pen Preview offers tremendous exposure to breeders wishing to promote their genetics and program to commercial and registered producers that attend the show.
Cattle are allowed into the pens for all three days of the show. It is not required that cattle be there all three days, however, a majority of the commercial type producers historically attend on Thursday and Friday. The pens are available as early as Thursday morning and until 2:00 pm on Saturday afternoon. This is not a haltered exhibit, but an opportunity for Bull Pen Exhibitors to visit with potential customers face to face and for them to view the cattle.
There will be two sizes of pens offered. A 12’x12’ pens for $175.00 (max capacity is 3 hd of yearlings) or 12’x24’ pens for $250.00 (max capacity is 6 hd of yearlings). Herd sires or other aged bulls are allowed as long as they are comfortable being around people and being penned up while on exhibit. Space is limited! Pen assignments will be done on a first come, first serve basis.
Again, this year, we will be offering two $300 gift certificates for Bull Pen attendees. All attendees will be encouraged to fill out an address form, from which we will draw two names out to receive the gift certificate that can be used to buy a bull from our Bull Pen exhibitors within the next 12 months. We will also offer the People’s Choice Award again in 2025!
For an entry form click here or more information you can go to: www.themateshow.com, or call 406256-2499.
Looking for vendor space inside? There is space available for your business to join us in the MATE Show or Home & Health Expo! Contact Traci to reserve your space now.
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Faith is a sounder guide than reason. Reason can only go so far, but faith has no limits.
THE APEX ADVANTAGE...GENETICS THAT
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cowherd and
Our herd sire selection, outcross or in herd are based on the bulls performance record for gainability, docility, feed conversion, and a good strong maternal background.
The bulls and heifers offered on 3/5/2024 will keep on doing for you what they’ve done for years at APEX ANGUS, an honest and trustworthy job.
Phone
271-5533
Sat ur day, Februa ry 1 Shelby, MT
Register now for a full day of workshops designed to improve your bottom line!
Saturday, February 1, 2025 8 am 5 pm Shelby High School
36 workshops to choose from including: Crop, LRP, PRF, Life, Long Term Care and Health Insurance, Livestock Reproduction, USDA Programs, Livestock and Crop Marketing, Entity Selection, Accounting 101, Financial Recordkeeping, Value Added RD Programs, Crop Seed, EPDs and Replacement Selection, Land Trust, Mental Health and more!
Pesticide Points Pending
Registrations due by January 20 for early bird discount
Final Registration deadline January 27
Visit mtnextgen.com or call 406 873 2239 for registration information
Persons with disabilities who require accommodations to attend or participate in the conference should contact Lacy Roberts at 406 873 5618 or Federal Relay Service at 1 800 877 8339 by Jan. 27, 2025.
Proudly brought to you by MSU Extension, NACDC Financial Services and local Ag Industry Supporters
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Montana Pulse Crop Committee seeking research proposals
The Montana Pulse Crop Committee (MPCC) invites proposals to fund market development and educational projects designed to promote and enhance Montana’s pulse industry.
The Montana Pulse Crop Research & Marketing Program aims to stimulate and expand Montana’s pulse crop industry through research, promotion, and market development of pulse crops grown in Montana. For the complete Request for Proposals (RFP), list of guidelines, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, please visit, agr.mt.gov. The Montana Pulse Crop Committee will determine funding awards.
Proposals must be submitted through the WebGrants system by 5:00 pm MT on Friday, March 7, 2025. Examples of eligible projects include, but are not limited to, marketing assessments, promotional campaigns and trade show exhibitions, and projects that expand international and domestic markets.
The Montana Pulse Crop Committee will review proposals during their next meeting in March of 2025. For all Public Meeting information, please visit, agr.mt.gov/Home/News.
The Montana Pulse Crop Committee’s mission is to invest in and deliver support for marketing, research, education, and policy development programming that improves return on investment for the pulse producers of Montana.
National Pizza Week
Celebrated: Jan 12th, 2025 - Jan 18th, 2025
From its origins in southern Italy to making its way in the United States in the early 1900s, pizza has a rich and robust history that has made it a dish that is beloved literally all around the world. And National Pizza Week is here with seven full days to celebrate!
History of National Day
The story of National Pizza Week goes back to sometime in the 1980s when pizzeria owners started the celebration. The purpose behind the day was to draw attention to the restaurants during their slower winter seasons.
Since then, this event has grown throughout the country and even into other parts of the world.
National Pizza Week is just the time to live out those pizza fantasies for seven full days of celebratory goodness. Some diehard pizza fans might choose to eat pizza from a different place every night of this important week. Or, those who are serious about indulging, might want to perform a pizza crawl where several pizza places are visited during one evening!
Succession planning series for women in agriculture
A multi-state extension workshop series for women in agriculture will offer strategies to evaluate and improve farm estate and transition plans.
“Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women: A Succession Planning Series,” will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Central time on January 21, January 28, February 4 and February 11 at sites across Kansas, Nebraska and Indiana. The series is being produced through a collaborative effort by extension programs at Kansas State University, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Purdue University.
Topics covered will include motivation for succession planning, communicating with family, the financial aspects of estate and transition plans, and the legal aspects of putting a plan in place. A keynote speaker will be simulcast to every workshop location during each meeting, with time for questions and a hands-on activity for participants. A meal will be provided on each date.
“Planning for what happens to your things when you’re gone can be daunting, but it’s so important, especially in agriculture, so that the transition to the next generation goes smoothly,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program. “This series will help women learn best practices and new strategies to help the transition and estate planning processes so they can take that back to their farm or ranch and help lead the way in creating or reevaluating their plans.”
Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to rural women,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties, and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”
The registration fee for in-person attendance is $60 before January 13 and increases to $75 on or after January 13. A virtual option is available for $75. Participants are encouraged to attend all four sessions. More information and registration is available on the Nebraska Women in Agriculture website, https://wia.unl.edu/succession25.
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A congressman and his wife see the club pro in the parking lot getting out of his new Cadillac. Upon closer inspection, it appears that the pro is wearing a Rolex watch. “Can you believe that?” the congressman complains to his wife. “That club pro clearly makes more money than me.” “Well, to be fair,” his wife counters, “he is a better golfer than you.”
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2024 Montana Youth Certified Fair Lamb and Goat Carcass Contest
By Brent Roeder, MSU Extension Sheep and Wool Specialist
The Montana State University Extension Service, the Montana 4-H Program and Montana Woolgrowers congratulate all our youth and are proud to sponsor these programs. The Montana Youth Certified Fair Lamb and Goat Contests are each ranked in two divisions on a statewide level, Carcass and Ultrasound. Lambs and goats in the Carcass division are shown, harvested, and graded in the cooler by a trained judge on ribeye area, backfat depth and quality. Lambs and goats in the Ultrasound division are shown, scanned for ribeye area and backfat depth by trained technicians and may or may not be harvested after the fair. Data is entered into one of two spreadsheets to calculate percent boneless retail cuts for ranking. Lambs or goats also need to make minimum and/or maximum requirements based on industry standards to be eligible for certification. All certified goats and lambs received a certificate and youth who raised the top two lambs or goats in each division will receive an embroidered jacket.
Thirty-six counties in the state participated in the goat contest with over two hundred and thirty goats measured between the two divisions. It may be of interest to note that the US is one of the largest importers of goat meat in the world. Pre-Covid, we imported approximately 50 million pounds of goat meat and currently import around 22 million pounds with that volume increasing again. The top exhibitor and the only goat to meet certification standards in the Carcass division was Brielle Clark from Sanders County whose 98-pound goat yielded a 49-pound carcass with a 1.95 square inch ribeye and a final percent boneless retail cuts score of 52.06. The top exhibitors in the Ultrasound division, where we had a tie for second place, were Keira Stentoft of Roosevelt County and Burke Nowak of Carbon County. First place went to Brylee McNally of Richland County whose 65-pound goat scanned an estimated 1.95 square inch ribeye area and a final estimated percent boneless retail cuts score of 55.67. Awards were presented at the 141st Annual Montana Woolgrower Banquet in Billings.
In the lamb contest, every county in the state participated in the contest with over eight hundred and sixty lambs measured between the two divisions. The top two exhibitors in the Carcass division where both from Sanders County with second place being awarded to Hannah Warnes and first place going to John McNamara whose 115-pound lamb yielded a Choice+ quality carcass with a 4.15 square inch ribeye and a final percent boneless retail cuts score of 52.24. The top two exhibitors in the Ultrasound division were Nolan Sutton of Flathead County receiving second place and first place going to Owen Rouse of Yellowstone County whose 125-pound lamb scanned an estimated 0.17-inch backfat and 3.94 square inch ribeye area and a final estimated percent boneless retail cuts score of 50.53.
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A man in New Zealand lost a bet and had to legally change his name. Good news: His new name is one letter shy of the government’s 100-letter maximum. Bad News: His name is now Full Metal Havok More Sexy N Intelligent Than Spock And All The Superheroes Combined With Frostnova.
Pictured are Brent Roeder, MSU Extension Sheep and Wool Specialist, Brylee McNally and Burke Nowak.
2024 Montana Youth Certified Fair Lamb and Goat Carcass Contest
Congratulations to all the contestants on a spectacular set of lambs and goats and thank you to all the community members and businesses who
and
The Dallas NFL expansion team was all set to begin the 1960 season as the Steers...until owner Tex Schramm realized that his team might be mocked if their mascot was the steer - a castrated male cow raised to be turned into beef. He liked the name “Rangers” but didn’t want to be confused with the then-minor league Texas Rangers baseball team. He finally decided on Cowboys.
The term “to know which side one’s bread is buttered on” means a person knows where their interests lie.
Pictured are Brent Roeder, Owen Rouse, Nolan Sutton and John McNamara.
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In 1912, Otto Frederick Rohwedder invented the first single loaf bread slicer machine. The first working model went into use in 1928.
Should you buy a surplus of hay for next year?
Most of North Dakota received good moisture over the growing season, producing ample hay availability. As a result, the hay market has slowed and prices have dropped, indicating a buyer’s market. This has some livestock growers speculating whether they should purchase hay now to create a carry-over surplus as a forage insurance policy if forage supplies are tight in 2025. Considering moisture conditions across the state since July have been low and spring moisture conditions are unknown, North Dakota State University Extension forage crops specialist James Rogers says they should buy, provided some caveats be met.
First, Rogers advises producers to determine whether the price is good by looking at their own cost per bale of production. Per bale production costs are determined by yield, input costs, machinery and labor. The higher the yield, the lower the per bale cost.
It is difficult to produce a typical 1,500-pound bale of hay at a cost less than $40/bale, and depending on crop input costs and yield, per bale cost can go over $100/bale. If the cost of a bale is equal to or less than the cost of production, does that imply it’s a good buy? Maybe, says Rogers, but bale weights and dry matter content are other key factors. It is best to purchase hay on a per ton dry matter basis. Assuming 100% dry matter, a 1,200-pound bale at $40/bale is $0.033/pound. ($66/T) compared to a 1,500-pound bale at $40/bale is $0.027/pound ($54/T).
The nutrient content of the hay should be the number one consideration when purchasing hay.
“Ask for forage test results prior to purchasing hay,” says Rogers. “Then you can compare one hay to another based on price per pound of crude protein and energy content reported as total digestible nutrient.”
This year, due to good spring moisture, hay harvest was often delayed, increasing plant maturity and lowering nutrient content.
Reviewing the results from several hay forage tests submitted from the 2024 crop, Rogers sees that a portion of the 2024 hay crop has crude protein levels that dipped down into the 5-6% level and total digestible nutrients (TDN) level below 55%. Hay of this type requires both crude protein and energy supplementation which is a cost that should be added back to the cost of the hay. On the other hand, forage test results also reveal there is plenty of hay from the 2024 crop that is high in nutrient content and therefore requires no supplementation depending on the class of livestock it will be fed to. There is no other way to know this without having it tested.
The final consideration is storage and feeding waste. If hay is purchased now, what condition will it be in six months to a year from now when it is fed? Round bale dry matter loss increases linearly with spoilage depth. A round bale that is 6 feet in diameter with a 2-inch spoilage loss around the bale has lost 10% dry matter. At 4 inches this increases to 20% and at 6 inches 30%.
Loss due to spoilage is often unaccounted for. If a 1,500-pound bale priced at $0.027/pound loses 20%, or 300 pounds, the financial loss is $8.10 a bale. Round bales wick moisture from the ground leading to dry matter loss when stored outside; this is simply unavoidable.
The longer outside storage goes on, the higher the loss, which can reach 50% levels at a year or longer. For long term storage considerations, bales should have a good round shape and are dense with a good wrapping. Storage areas should be well-drained with minimal ground contact if possible. The ultimate long-term storage would be in a barn. If bales are maintained in good condition during storage, little change in nutrient content will occur.
Is it a good idea to purchase hay during a down hay market? Rogers says it very well can be if the following is true:
- A comparison can be made between on farm cost of hay production and purchase hay cost.
- The bale weights and dry matter are known and can be purchased by the ton rather than by the bale.
- It has a forage test so that it can be purchased based on cost per pound of crude protein and energy content.
- The forage test shows no anti-quality issues such as nitrates or heat bound protein.
- It can be stored long-term to minimize storage loss. It is always a good idea to have a surplus on hand as long as it is taken care of during storage.
- Feeding losses can be minimized.
Revenue protection to flax producers, specialty and organic growers
Flax producers can now benefit from revenue protection, a crop insurance option available through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) has expanded Small Grains Crop Provisions to now offer revenue protection for flax for the 2025 crop year, which is already offered for barley, rye, wheat and oats.
“Expanding revenue protection for flax producers represents a critical step in strengthening the agricultural safety net,” said RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “By ensuring that flax farmers have access to revenue-based insur-
ing date; for subsequent years of coverage, the deadline is the sales closing date. This change will reduce the likelihood of a producer losing coverage because of confusion over which deadline applies.
Most of these changes take effect with a November 30 Final Rule in the Federal Register. Public comments will be accepted on the rule through January 27, 2025.
Additionally, RMA also expanded the availability of enterprise units as well as enterprise units by organic farming practice to sugar beets, onions, popcorn and processing beans. ance, we provide them with a more reliable tool to manage both market fluctuations and unexpected challenges.”
Revenue protection policies insure producers against yield losses due to natural causes such as drought, excessive moisture, hail, wind, frost, insects, disease and revenue losses caused by harvest price changes from the projected price.
For a revenue protection policy, a producer selects the coverage level – between 50% and 85% –and has the option to select revenue protection that has a harvest price option or one with a harvest price exclusion. If the harvest price option is chosen, RMA will calculate guaranteed revenue for insurance purposes using the higher of either the harvest price or the initial guaranteed projected price.
The current yield-based plan of insurance, Actual Production History (APH), available to flax will be automatically converted to the yield protection plan of insurance. For producers who wish to maintain yield coverage without electing one of the new revenue coverage options, the only difference in coverage is that the price guarantee will be the projected price offered for revenue protection, instead of a price election established by RMA. The replanting payment for flax will be determined by using the projected price, instead of a price election.
Specialty and Organic Growers
RMA is continuing efforts to expand crop insurance options for specialty and organic growers by allowing enterprise units by organic farming practice, adding enterprise unit eligibility for several crops and making additional policy updates.
The following changes will be made beginning with the 2025 crop year:
Expand the availability of enterprise units as well as units by organic farming practice to green peas and processing sweet corn.
Combine written agreement deadlines in the Dry Bean crop insurance provisions to match other insurance policies. For the first year of coverage, the deadline is the acreage report-
Genetics. Veseth Cattle Co. has an exhaustive Artificial Insemination (AI) program to improve their cattle. We have AI’ed 8500 females in the last 26 years.
Selection. Veseth Cattle Co tests and verifies all production inputs and that is why only 10% of the AI sires sampled in our program are used 4 or more years.
Cost. Veseth Cattle Co. is affordable. Our bulls average $3400 at auction. This is a 43% savings per bull under the industry average bull. Only 1 in 3 bulls saved at the ranch makes the cut for our bull sale.
Efficiency. Cows are grazed year-round on native range. Most of our range is 7 acres per animal unit in the Missouri Breaks. These cows must raise good calves, rebreed, and maintain their body condition on minimal inputs.
Focused on the Female. This is where we can
SDSU Extension 4-H
State Ambassadors
South Dakota State University Extension 4-H is pleased to announce the youth chosen as State 4-H Ambassadors for the coming year.
The State 4-H Ambassador program provides leadership and mentoring opportunities as participants support 4-H and serve as positive role models. Through their service, State 4-H Ambassadors develop skills that can prepare them for future career opportunities, including public speaking, event planning and public relations.
State 4-H Ambassadors for the 2024-2025 year are: Kelsey Fischer, Day County, serving on the SkillsX by 4-H committee
Carley Crist, Union County, 4-H Gala committee
Katie Spatz, Roberts County, SkillsX by 4-H
Mercedes Jones, Jerauld County, 4-H Gala
Julia Tinker, Minnehaha County, SkillsX by 4-H
Abbie Chase, McCook County, 4-H Gala
Caleb Gaikowski, Day County, SkillsX by 4-H
Oliver Moeckly, Marshall County, SkillX by 4-H
William Kreth, Davison County, 4-H Gala
During their terms, State 4-H Ambassadors create action plans and must facilitate an educational program for youth. They can also serve on committees, including the newly created 4-H Gala committee. The first 4-H Gala will be held in 2025.
Tinker, a junior at Brandon Valley High School, is serving her third term as a State 4-H Ambassador. As in prior years, she will serve on the SkillsX by 4-H committee, which also served as the inspiration for the educational engagement part of her action plan.
“I have learned so much about leadership, and life skills,” Tinker said. “Through the ups and downs, these ambassadors are some of the closest people in my life and I cherish time spent with my fellow ambassadors.”
Chase, a senior at McCook Central High School, is serving her first term as an ambassador. She loves planning, organizing, and marketing events, so the 4-H Gala committee was a natural fit. Chase noted it will be a lot of work to launch a new event, but she is excited to get started.
“The end goal is to have a great event for the 4-H alumni, current members and sponsors to celebrate 4-H and network,” she said. “Being an ambassador has already opened up a whole door of opportunities, and I regret not applying to be one earlier.”
For more information, contact Hilary Kroupa, SDSU Extension Program Manager, Regional Youth Educator.
Establishing a biosecurity plan
By Lisa Moser, K-State Research and Extension news service
At the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, many people practiced social distancing and increased sanitation to keep the sickness from spreading to others.
Some of those same human biosecurity practices can also be incorporated into an animal health plan, according to Kansas State University beef cattle veterinarians.
Speaking on a recent Beef Cattle Institute Cattle Chat podcast, K-State veterinarians Todd Gunderson, Brian Lubbers and Bob Larson offered tips on how to reduce the risk of disease from cattle that are new to the herd.
“It is important to know what diseases you want to keep out of the herd. Two conditions that are easy to test for are BVD (bovine viral diarrhea) and trichomoniasis,” Gunderson said. “With both these cases, there is a virus and protozoa that have long-term carrier states that we can keep out through diagnostic testing.”
Lubbers said that each operation needs to work with a local veterinarian to establish a biosecurity plan.
“There is no one-size-fits-all biosecurity program, and you have to be aware that some cattle can carry disease-causing germs that can’t be easily detected,” Lubbers said.
Along with working with the veterinarian to devise a testing protocol, Larson recommends quarantining cattle away from the herd upon arrival.
“Keep those new arrivals separated from the herd for 30 days or so and make sure they are free of sickness for that time,” Larson said. “When they are in quarantine, that is also a time that they can be tested for diseases that might be of concern, depending on where you are in the country.”
National Soup Month
When the cold weather is in abundance, what better way to sit down and warm up than with a nice, warm bowl of soup?
History of National Soup Month
National Soup Month was founded in 1984 by Campell’s Soup Company, but the history of soup goes back much further than that!
Historical evidence of the existence of soup dates all the way back to about 20,000 B.C. Boiling was not a common cooking technique until the invention of a waterproofed container, which started out as clay vessels. Animal Hides and watertight baskets were used along with heated rocks. The word soup itself derives from the French word soupe which means soup or broth. The word restaurant was first used in France, around the 16th century, to refer to a highly concentrated, inexpensive soup, sold by street vendors, that was advertised as an antidote to physical exhaustion.
In 1765, a Parisian entrepreneur opened a shop specializing in such soups. This prompted the use of the modern word restaurant for the eating establishments. In the US, the first colonial cookbook was published by William Parks in Williamsburg, Virginia, in 1742, based on Eliza Smith’s The Compleat Housewife; or Accomplished Gentlewoman’s Companion, and it included several recipes for soups and bisques. A 1772 cookbook titled The Frugal Housewife, had an entire chapter around the entire subject of soups. In 1897, Doctor John T. Dorrance, a chemist with the Campbell Soup Company invented condensed soup, which has grown exponentially in popularity in the modern era. Condensing soup allows soup to be packaged into a smaller can and sold at a lower price than other canned soups. The soup is usually doubled in volume by adding a “can full” of water or milk (about 10 ounces). Since the 1990s, the canned soup market has burgeoned with soups marketed as “ready-to-eat,” which require no additional liquid to prepare. Microwaveable bowls have expanded the ready-to-eat canned soup market even more, offering convenience (especially in workplaces) and are popular lunch items.
Registration open for 10th annual Field to Fork webinar series
North Dakota State University Extension will again host the Field to Fork webinar series starting February 2025.
The Field to Fork Wednesday webinars will begin February 12. The webinars will be held online from 2 to 3 p.m. through May 7.
Experts from across the region will provide information about growing, preserving and preparing specialty-crop fruits and vegetables safely in this 10th annual webinar series.
The webinars are free of charge, but preregistration is required. The webinars will be held on Zoom. Register on the Field to Fork website at ag.ndsu.edu/fieldtofork. Participants will be sent reminder emails with the link.
The webinars also will be archived for later viewing, but participating in the live webinar allows participants to interact with the presenter.
This series is an ongoing collaborative effort with the North Central Food Safety Extension Network which includes experts
from NDSU and around the region.
Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension food and nutrition specialist, says that when the first Field to Fork webinar series started 10 years ago, online webinars were still relatively new.
“People were not routinely participating in online webinars,” says Garden-Robinson. “We needed to explain about how to use the online platform.”
Topics that will be covered:
February 12: How to Start Your Own Flower and Vegetable Transplants Indoors — Don Kinzler, Extension horticulture agent, NDSU
February 19: Anatomy of a Food Recall — Bryon Chaves, Extension associate professor, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
February 26: Growing Tips for Summer and Winter Squash — Tom Kalb, Extension horticulturist, NDSU
March 5: Let’s Preserve Salsa (Live Demonstration) — Julie Garden-Robinson, Extension food and nutrition specialist and professor, NDSU
March 12: The Science Behind Indoor Plant Lighting — Esther McGinnis, Extension horticulturist and associate professor, NDSU
March 19: Pickling Safety — Cindy Brison, Extension educator, University of Nebraska
March 26: Tips and Tricks for Vegetable Production — Susie Thompson, associate professor and potato breeder, NDSU
April 2: Plant Pathology 101: Common Plant Diseases — Sam Markell, professor and interim plant pathology department chair, NDSU
April 9: All About Alliums: Garlic, Green Onion, Dry Bulb Onion, Leeks and Shallots — Harlene Hatterman-Valenti, professor, NDSU
April 16: Ghosts in Your Gardens — Janet Knodel, Extension entomologist and professor, NDSU
April 30: Food Preservation Toolkit — Karen Blakeslee, Extension associate, Kansas State University
May 7: Healthy Soil, Healthy Food — Carlos Pires, Extension soil health specialist and assistant professor, NDSU
This project is made possible with funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Marketing Service.
To register, visit NDSU Extension’s website at https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ fieldtofork or contact Garden-Robinson at 701-2317187 or julie.garden-robinson@ndsu.edu.
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English is funny: Underwater and underground. Things that we claim are underwater and underground are obviously surrounded by, not under the water and ground.
Fall soil sampling
By Samantha Daniel, UNL
As we approach winter and colder temperatures, determining the current fertility of pastures and alfalfa fields through soil sampling is a critical step towards optimizing production next year. Sampling now, before the ground freezes can help with planning this winter and give time to develop a fertility plan if soil tests show fertilizer is needed.
The process for taking soil samples is straightforward. Pull 10-20 cores at a consistent depth of 8 inches for every 40 acres sampled. These samples can be taken in a representative area of the field or arranged by soil type and topography. Mix the samples together and take about a pint’s worth out to send off for analysis.
Soil cores and recommendations are often based on cores taken down to 8 inches. However, if previous samples have been taken at a different depth, such as 6 inches, continue with the consistent historical depth and adjust accordingly by communicating your actual sampling depth with your soils lab to assure accurate fertilizer recommendations. Due to mineralization, soils have more nutrients readily available nearer the soil surface; so deeper sampling depths can dilute the samples and increase nutrient supplement recommendations.
Keep in mind that soil sampling may not reduce the overall amount of fertilizer needed but will help ensure appropriate application rates, which can result in a better yield. Additionally, moisture is the most limiting factor in pasture and alfalfa production, not fertility. You can apply all the fertilizer in the world but doing so in a drought won’t help plants grow. Fertilizer applications on dry land areas, especially for nitrogen, should be based on expected moisture.
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English is funny: The buck does funny things when the does are present.
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4-H recognizes Century Familes volunteers
The North Dakota 4-H Foundation and North Dakota State University Extension 4-H Youth Development program recognized six North Dakota 4-H Century Families, four Salute to Excellence Award recipients, and the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame inductee during the 2024 Recognition Luncheon at the North Dakota 4-H Camp near Washburn, North Dakota.
“It was a day of celebration and gratitude as we honored the legacy, dedication and impact of our 4-H Century Families, volunteer award recipients and Hall of Fame inductee,” says Leigh Ann Skurupey, assistant director for NDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development. “Their contributions are the heart of 4-H, inspiring generations and shaping the future of our youth.”
Any family whose years as 4-H members, leaders or volunteers add up to 100 or more is eligible to be named a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. The six families honored for their years of 4-H participation are:
Leier Family, Emmons County, 101 years
Larsen Family, Cass County, 128 years
Motter Family, Steele County, 221 years
Kraemer Family, Grand Forks County, 214 years
Anderson Family, Sargent County, 109 years
Gulleson-Harris Family, Sargent County, 138 years
The 4-H Salute to Excellence Volunteer of the Year Award is given to an individual who has volunteered for 4-H for less than 10 years. The NDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development program presented the 2023 Volunteer of the Year Award to Travis Anliker of Dickey County and the 2024 Volunteer of the Year Award to Shane Giedd of McLean County.
The 4-H Salute to Excellence Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award is given to an individual who has spent 10 or more years as a 4-H volunteer. The NDSU Extension 4-H Youth Development program presented the 2023 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award to Norman Howard of Ramsey County and the 2024 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer Award to Duane Hauck of Cass County.
The North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame award recognizes an individual for their outstanding leadership and commitment to 4-H on a local, county, regional and state level. Michael “Mike” Hanson was posthumously inducted into the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame. His wife, LuAnn Hanson, and
Mike Hanson was posthumously inducted into the North Dakota 4-H Hall of Fame. His wife, LuAnn Hanson, and sister, Myrna Hanson, accepted the award on his behalf. Pictured are, from left, state 4-H activities coordinator Karla Meikle, LuAnn Hanson and Myrna Hanson. (NDSU photo)
The Leir family is recognized as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. Pictured are (from left): Tina Gianakos, Daren Leier, Tom Leier, Duane Leier, Elaine Hyslop, Charlene Sickler, Marvin Sickler and Becky Peterson, North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair. (NDSU photo)
ND 4-H recognizes Century Familes volunteers
The Larsen family is recognized as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. Pictured are (from left): North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair Becky Peterson, Mabel Loy, Kris Larsen, Joyce Larsen, Jalen Loy, Maari Loy, Toby Loy and Phillip Loy. (NDSU photo)
The Motter family is recognized as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. Pictured are (from left): Jean Neset, Paul Motter, Carolyn Motter, NDSU Extension agent Emily Burkett, John Motter, Aaron Motter, Marlene Motter, Daniel Motter and Becky Peterson, North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair. (NDSU photo)
Rural Montana communities invited to participate in Reimagining Rural series
From
the MSU News Service
Montana State University Extension is accepting applications from rural Montana communities to participate in Reimagining Rural, a three-part series focused on assisting Montana’s small towns in expanding partnerships, increasing knowledge of available resources and inspiring big dreams. This year’s series is planned for February 4, 11 and 18.
Reimagining Rural communities each host an in-person gathering for local volunteers and leaders to watch rural-focused speakers via Zoom. Then each community has their own discussion about the ideas they’ve heard and how they could be applied locally.
“Small towns are vital to Montana’s rich culture, and many places struggle with change. This program was launched as a resource to help rural leaders navigate and build a brighter future for all who live, work and play in their
Iris Lane Billings, MT 59102 Phone 406-254-1247 Cell 406-697-4040
communities,” said Jennifer Anderson, MSU Extension community vitality associate and program coordinator.
Fifty-three rural communities have participated in the program since it began in 2019. It is hosted by the MSU Extension Community Vitality program and the Montana Community Foundation.
“Many participants have utilized the program as a starting point to further community development work, such as conducting downtown master plans, leveraging funds for grants, building a community brand and hosting special events,” Anderson said.
The program is free, but communities must apply. To apply and learn more, visit www.montana.edu/extension/communitydevelopment/reimagine-rural. html.
Montana Hereford Breeders
Pendroy, MT dave.brownell51@gmail.com
Feddes Herefords Dan 406-570-1602, Manhattan, MT www.feddes.com
Goodyear Ultratorque 520/85 R38 rear and 420/85 R28 front tractor tires, shedded.
21.5Lx16.1 flotation tires 8-hole implement rims.
Willmar fertilizer tender, late 70s.
1955 Chevrolet 235 cu. in. 6-cylinder engine. 1979 GMC hood and radiator support.
Wade Rain 5” 5-ft. wheel line.
Travis 5” 5-ft. wheel line.
Nelson P200 Big Guns on carts.
A&M 55 Series ringlock 6” 30-ft. pipe.
Wade Rain 4” 30-ft. hand line.
Hook & Latch 4” 40-ft. hand line.
Phone (406) 600-4146
Remote pilot exam prep course resumes January 2025 in Nebraska
Nebraska Extension is offering the Part 107 Remote Exam Prep Course across Nebraska for a second year. This course will be offered at various locations across the state from January through April 2025.
In 2024, this course was offered across the state at 14 locations, reaching 130-plus students representing more than 30 Nebraska counties and six states.
This course is a valuable educational opportunity for anyone interested in flying drones for commercial or public application, including emergency management, law enforcement, real estate and land management, photography and agriculture.
“The course is geared toward professional pilots who intend to make drone flying an aspect of their career or work duties,” said Dr. Dirk Charlson, Nebraska Extension educator and course instructor, who has 10 years of experience flying drones and teaching drone courses. “If you are just curious about drones, this course might not be for you.”
If you are or planning to be an agricultural spray drone pilot, Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate is an important step towards that
goal. Although this course does not specifically address spray drone regulations, you will still gain all the knowledge needed to successfully pass the Part 107 drone exam.
This one-day (eight-hour) course prepares students to pass the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Exam required to receive a Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (aka drone license). Study materials, presentation notes and lunch will be provided.
Online pre-registration is required. The course registration fee is $275. Discounts are available to eligible students and educators by completing an online application.
For further details or questions, please reach out to Dr. Dirk Charlson at (cell) (402) 460-0742.
If you are unable to attend one of the 14 courses offered this winter and spring, no worries — planning is already started for offering this same course at 10 locations during the summer and early fall. Subscribe to CropWatch for future announcements. Winter-Spring 2025 Locations
January 9 — UNL Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
2025 Sires Represented:
RED TER-RON REGIMENT 73K (4767445)
BERWALD COMPLETE 2071 (4687957)
WEBR DECLARE 2106 (4665853)
ELSL KRYPTONITE 768K (4670483) RED ALLISON PROTOTYPE 150K (4767449)
January 10 — UNL West Central Research, Extension, and Education Center, 402 W. State Farm Rd., North Platte, NE 69101
January 13 — Dodge County Extension Office, 1206 W. 23rd St. Fremont, NE 68025
January 16 — Gage County Extension Office, 1115 W. Scott St., Beatrice, NE 68310
January 23 — Hall County Extension Office, 3180 US-34, Grand Island, NE 68801
January 29 — Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E 34th St., Kearney, NE 68847
February 12 — Buffalo County Extension Office, 1400 E 34th St., Kearney, NE 68847
February 27 — Adams County Extension Office, 2975 S. Baltimore Ave., Hastings, NE 68901
March 7 — Nemaha County 4H Building, 816 I St., Auburn, NE 68305
March 14 — Dawson County Extension Office, 1002 Plum Creek Pkwy, Lexington, NE 68850
April 4 — Platte County Extension Office, 2715 13th St., Columbus, NE 68601
April 11 — Lancaster County Extension Office, 44 Cherrycreek Rd. Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68528
April 18 — Nebraska City High School, 141 Steinhart Park Rd., Nebraska City, NE 68410
April 25 — UNL Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center, 4502 Ave. I, Scottsbluff, NE 69361
ND 4-H recognizes Century Familes volunteers
The Kraemer family is recognized as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. Pictured are (from left): Phil Kraemer, Laurie Kraemer, and Becky Peterson, North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair. (NDSU photo)
The Anderson family is recognized as a North Dakota 4-H Century Family. Pictured are (from left): Stacey Anderson, LaJuana Anderson Hayen, Karen Anderson, Wade Anderson and Becky Peterson, North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair. (NDSU photo)
ND 4-H recognizes Century Familes, volunteer
sister, Myrna Hanson, accepted the award on his behalf. Hanson’s love for 4-H began when he became involved in 4-H at the age of 8 in Grand Forks County and continued into his 37-year professional career with NDSU Extension, which started in 1981. He worked as an Extension Agent in Richland, Benson and Emmons counties, where he assisted numerous 4-H’ers with their photography projects and livestock judging. Among his favorite activities were 4-H Camp, 4-H Achievement Days and the North Dakota State Fair. In 2017, Hanson concluded his Extension career as the district director for the northwest region of the state.
“Mike believed in the potential of 4-H youth to become future leaders and develop essential life skills,” says nominator Karla Meikle, state 4-H activities coordinator. “His commitment to youth development reflects the core values of 4-H, which focuses on building strong, capable and resilient individuals through experiential learning.”
In addition, the North Dakota 4-H Foundation recognized outgoing board members Tammy Meyer of Benson County and Duane Hauck of Cass County for their 12 years of service. Deb Clarys of Oliver County was recognized as past board chair for her leadership from 2022 to 2023.
Crawler
Travis Anliker is recognized as the 2023 Volunteer of the Year. Pictured are (from left): North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair Becky Peterson, Amy Anliker, Travis Anliker, Phyllis Anliker, Ann Anliker and Todd Anliker. (NDSU photo)
Shane Giedd is recognized as the 2024 Volunteer of the Year. Pictured are (from left): NDSU Extension agent Rick Schmidt, Shane Giedd and North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair Becky Peterson. (NDSU photo)
Norman Howard is recognized as the 2023 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer. Pictured are (from left): Zach Howard; Trisha Berg, NDSU Extension administrative assistant; Norman Howard; Cindy Olson, NDSU Extension 4-H program assistant; Sara Laite, NDSU Extension agent; and Becky Peterson, North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair. (NDSU photo)
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ND 4-H recognizes Century Familes, volunteer
Markets, crop production highlights of Corn and Soybean Expo
Returning for its second year, the 2025 Eastern Nebraska Corn and Soybean Expo promises an exciting day packed with expert insights, market updates and networking opportunities to help producers maximize success in the upcoming growing season.
The 2025 expo will take place on Thursday, January 23 at Christensen Field in Fremont located at 1730 W. 16th St., Fremont, Nebraska. The program will kick off at 8 a.m. and will finish at 3 p.m.
The event opens with coffee and waffles by The Waffleman, sponsored by the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce, and the opportunity to view equipment and exhibitor booths at 8 a.m. Speakers start at 9 a.m.
“The Eastern Nebraska Corn and Soybean Expo will assist producers in planning for next year’s growing season,” said Aaron Nygren, Nebraska extension educator. “We hope you come and learn from a variety of speakers and vendors about important topics for corn and soybean production in 2025.”
This program is sponsored by Nebraska Extension in the university’s Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources, the Nebraska Corn Board, the Nebraska Soybean Board, and the Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce.
Austin Schroeder, president of Schroeder Commodity Marketing, LLC is the keynote speaker. His presentation, “Corn and Soybeans, What to Expect Next”, will take a dive into the corn and soybean markets, covering the current market situation including rising competition from the rest of the world, a new presidential administration, and other major market factors.
Other timely topics include:
“Optimizing Nitrogen Use in Corn Production” — Joe Luck, UNL professor of biological systems engineering
Massey-Ferguson
Eagle attachments
“Corn Disease Surprises in 2024, What Can You Do to Prepare in 2025” — Tamra Jackson-Ziems, Nebraska Extension plant pathologist
“What Have We Learned from Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS)” — participant panel discussion
On-farm research opportunities — Adam Leise, Nebraska On-Farm Research Network director.
Updates will also be provided by the Nebraska Corn Board, Nebraska Soybean Board, Nebraska Corn Growers Association and Nebraska Soybean Association.
Producers can visit with representatives from a variety of ag-related companies during a 30-minute break at 10 a.m.
Complimentary noon lunch will be served.
Registration is available the day of the expo at the door. For more information about the program or exhibitor information, contact Aaron Nygren at (402) 624-8030, or Mailson Freire de Oliveira at (402) 727-2775. Vendor spots are available — information is available online. There is no registration fee. #####
Mamie Eisenhower was a huge fan. Mamie’s Million Dollar Fudge was named in her honor. It included nuts and marshmallow creme.
Duane Hauck is recognized as the 2024 Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer. Pictured are (from left): NDSU Extension agent Rick Schmidt, Millie Hauck, Duane Hauck, and North Dakota 4-H Foundation chair Becky Peterson. (NDSU photo)
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1997 Buick 80,000 miles,
##### Harry Potter can’t tell the difference between his cooking
They’re both cauldron. ##### Queue is just one letter followed by four silent letters.
They must be waiting for their turn.
60 Series Detroit in frame overhaul with new head, new injectors, Dynos at 460 HP
Steer axle completely rebuilt, new steering gear
Both rear ends replaced 3:55 gear ratio
Newer 13 speed transmission, New clutch
Recipe Patch By Geri
Apple-Dijon Pork Roast
1 boneless pork loin roast (2 to 3 pounds)
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) chicken broth
1 cup unsweetened apple juice
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
6 Tbls cornstarch
6 Tbls cold water
Ground pepper, optional
Place roast in a 5-qt. slow cooker. In a small bowl, combine the broth, apple juice and mustard; pour over roast. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or until tender. Remove roast and keep warm.
For gravy, strain cooking juices and skim fat. Pour juices into a small saucepan. Combine cornstarch and water until smooth; gradually stir into juices. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened, 2 minutes. Serve with pork. If desired, top with coarsely ground pepper.
Cranberry BBQ Pulled Pork
1 boneless pork shoulder roast (4 to 6 pounds)
1/3 cup cranberry juice
1 Tsp salt
sauce:
1 can (14 ounces) whole-berry cranberry sauce
1 cup ketchup
1/3 cup cranberry juice
3 Tbls brown sugar
4-1/2 tsp chili powder
Excellent tires throughout, all brakes good. This truck is correct, no shortcuts taken on maintenance or repairs. Truck comes with complete service records.
1998 Peterbilt 379 2004
Transcraft Eagle
2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp ground chipotle pepper
1/2 tsp liquid smoke, optional
14 hamburger buns, split
Cut roast in half. Place in a 4-qt. slow cooker. Add cranberry juice and salt. Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours or until meat is tender.
Remove roast and set aside. In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, ketchup, cranberry juice, brown sugar, seasonings and liquid smoke if desired. Cook and stir over medium heat until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
Skim fat from cooking juices; set aside 1/2 cup juices. Discard remaining juices. When cool enough to handle, shred pork with 2 forks and return to slow cooker.
Stir in sauce mixture and reserved cooking juices. Cover and cook on low about 1 hour or until heated through. Serve on buns.
Slow-Cooked Stuffed Peppers
4 medium sweet red peppers
1 can (15 ounces) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
3/4 cup salsa
1 small onion, chopped
1/2 cup frozen corn
1/3 cup uncooked rice
1-1/4 teaspoons chili powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Reduced-fat sour cream, optional
Cut and discard tops from peppers; remove seeds. In a large bowl, mix beans, cheese, salsa, onion, corn, rice, chili powder and cumin, spoon into peppers. Place in a 5-qt. slow cooker coated with cooking spray.
Cook, covered, on low until peppers are tender and filling is heated through, 3-4 hours .
Slow-Cooked Broccoli
6 cups frozen chopped broccoli, partially thawed 1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of celery soup, undiluted
In a large bowl, combine the broccoli, soup, 1 cup cheese, onion, Worcestershire sauce and pepper. Pour into a greased 3-qt. slow cooker. Sprinkle crackers on top; dot with butter. Cover and cook on high for 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Sprinkle with remaining cheese. Cook until the cheese is melted, 10 minutes longer.
Similar to the concept of ‘Movember’, Manuary is a time for men to show their stuff by growing out their facial hair – and it’s all for a purpose and for a good cause!
History of Manuary
Men have been growing beards all throughout the ages. Charles Darwin had a theory that beards were somehow related to the survival of the fittest, putting forth the theory that men who had beards were more attractive to women, which meant they were the men who would procreate more. Of course, since Darwin himself was known for his full beard, perhaps this was just his way of making it clear to everyone around that the ladies loved him!
Manuary is a portmanteau (a word that is made up to combine the sounds and meanings of other words) that seems to trace its history back to 2010 when it was started by some of the students at Brentwood school in British Columbia, Canada.
A boarding school for high school boys, Brentwood students wanted to participate in Movember, even though it violated their strict dress code of no facial hair. While the school declined their request to participate in Movember, the students petitioned to establish a new holiday month with a similar theme, naming it Manuary.
Since that time, Manuary has been celebrated annually at the school and has also gained some traction in other places as well. Offering the opportunity for growing facial hair while raising monetary donations for a worthy cause, Manuary has often been associated with the fight against head and neck cancer. A few different charities work to support those with cancer as well as diligently seeking to find a cure, specifically for those with cancers of the head and neck.
With that in mind, it’s time to get ready to grow a beard, mustache or goatee in honor of Manuary, or at least (for those who aren’t bead-growers) use the time to raise awareness about and donations for the fight against cancers of the head and neck.
#####
I used to work in a shoe recycling shop. It was sole destroying.
#####
Why wasn’t the woman happy with the Velcro she bought? It was a total ripoff.
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Are Hops a Viable Crop in Wyoming? Maybe.
By Brooke Ortel
As a high-altitude state known for its harsh climate, Wyoming isn’t an ideal location for growing hops, the small pinecone-like flowers produced by the hops plant. These odd flowers are a key ingredient in the beer-brewing process, producing bitter flavors and unique aromas.
While microbreweries have gained popularity across Wyoming, hops production has not. For brewers interested in experimenting with wet hops, which requires starting the brewing process within 24 hours of harvest, the lack of local hops presents a challenge.
Urszula Norton, a professor of plant sciences based in Laramie, saw this conundrum as an opportunity for local producers and brewers—if growing hops at 7,200 feet in a cold, windy, low-humidity location was feasible.
So far, her research suggests that it’s possible, though commercial production may not be practical in the Laramie Valley.
A challenging environment
When graduate student Rhett Greenwald began working on Norton’s project in 2022, only four of seven hops varieties at ACRES Student Farm had survived their first year. As he monitored the remaining plants for growth and yield quantity and quality, the data looked promising—until hail decimated the crop. The following year, a May snowstorm damaged the vines; while they recovered, yield remained low.
Norton and Greenwald have donated several small batches of hops to a local brewery. While the samples were well received, the researchers recognize that larger-scale production could be challenging in Laramie’s harsh and often unpredictable weather conditions. “Brewers have valid concerns about whether quantity and quality could be guaranteed,” Greenwald comments.
Of the four hops varieties that Greenwald tested, Zeus performed the best, closely followed by Chinook and Centennial. Cascade did not perform well and is not recommended for production in the Laramie Valley.
Measuring success
To assess plant performance and health, Greenwald monitored the chlorophyll content in the plants’ leaves, taking measurements every other week during the growing season. Hops plants grow best when provided a trellis structure to climb, and by the end of the summer, data collection meant climbing a ladder to reach the top of the towering vines.
At the end of each season, Greenwald gathered yield data, weighing the freshly harvested hops, then recording their oven-dried weight as well. To determine quality, he measured the levels of alpha and beta acids in both fresh and dried hops.
“Alpha and beta acids lend themselves to the aromatic component of beer and also the bittering and preserving aspect,” Greenwald explains. “Those secondary metabolites can be affected by cultivation practices like tillage, production management, and fertilization as well as environmental factors like heat stress and drought stress.”
Different varieties of hops are characterized by different levels of alpha and beta acids. For a local grower to succeed, they’d need to produce hops with consistent levels of these compounds. Quality-wise, the hops grown in Laramie yielded fairly standard levels of alpha and beta acids, though harvest quantity was limited.
Biochar yields promising results
In addition to analyzing plant productivity and yield, Greenwald quantified soil fertility using measurements of soil moisture and plant-available nitrogen. This data was used to compare how hops performed with different soil treatments, namely the addition of biochar.
Hops plants are considered heavy feeders, meaning that commercial producers often treat them with nitrogen fertilizer at specific growth stages. Greenwald and Norton did not fertilize the plants in their study. Instead, they treated half the plants with biochar, short for biological charcoal.
Vermeer, the Vermeer logo and Equipped to
Freshly harvested hops cones. Photo by Rhett Greenwald.
HEAVY HARROW FOR SALE
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“Established in 1942”
Biochar is generated by burning organic materials in a low-oxygen environment. Research suggests that biochar can act as a slow-release fertilizer, capture nutrients, and sequester carbon in the soil. Biochar may also have antifungal and anti-disease properties.
Greenwald’s experiment is likely the first to investigate how biochar affects hops plants. For his research, Greenwald used biochar produced locally from dead cottonwood trees. He found that the plots with added biochar had higher chlorophyll content and higher soil moisture than the plots without biochar. The plants with biochar also produced higher quality and quantity yields.
Since the soil amended with biochar had greater water and nutrient retention, it may reduce the amount of conventional fertilizer required to boost hops production, Greenwald notes. This could have both economic and environmental benefits.
A hopeful future
While the Laramie Valley might not be the ideal location, Norton and Greenwald’s research demonstrates that hops production is indeed possible in Wyoming.
“If they can grow as well as they did in Laramie’s tough environment and elevation, there’s really good potential for them throughout the state, especially with the increase in microbreweries and home brewers,” Greenwald says.
To learn more, contact Norton at unorton@uwyo.edu.
This article was originally published in the 2024 issue of Reflections, the annual research magazine published by the UW College of Agriculture, Life Sciences and Natural Resources.
National Bagel Day
Always observed on January 15th
We are the oldest same family owned Chrysler Dealership in Montana.
There’s a special day to celebrate donuts. So, it only makes sense that there should be a special day to give recognition to Bagels. Fortunately for bagel lovers, that day has thankfully arrived.
Depending upon who you talk to and what you read, the word bagel and the recipe originates in different areas and at different times. In some places, bagels are spelled “biegels”. Some folks say the word “bagel” comes from the German word “Bougel”, dating back to the 16th century. It is believed that the recipe for bagels evolved from the ringed Polish bread “Obwarzanek”, which was invented in the late 14th century. In Krakow, Poland, they were given as gifts to women after childbirth.
Setting the date Straight – The date for this special event was originally February 9. The date was moved to January 15 by bagel manufacturer Thomas Bagels, to avoid sharing the date with National Pizza Day.
Hops study site in Laramie, Wyoming. Flags indicate individual plants.
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2015 John Deere 6175R (HA), Stk #86130, 2,300 Hours, IVT Transmission, TLS Front Suspension, 3 SCV’s, Loader without Grapple, Premium Cab, 2 Sets 450 lb. Rear Weights $180,500 $164,900
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So you want to raise hogs?
By Elizabeth Hines, Swine Extension Specialist, Penn State
Raising hogs for profit can be a satisfying enterprise. However, there are several management skills that each hog producer should have to be successful. Each livestock enterprise has different resources: land, facilities, labor, capital, feed, and management. To raise hogs sustainably, you must manage these resources.
In addition to managing resources, new producers must ask themselves, what do I need to get started? This question involves considerations for the type of animals a producer wishes to raise as well as where to find these animals, how to select them, and what equipment will be needed for the operation. Producers also need to consider how they will feed their animals and what health care practices they will use to keep the animals healthy. Savvy producers will let markets identify the type of animals they should raise in order to generate a profit. This information may be used as a guide for hog producers just getting started in the industry to learn:
What it takes to market your animals
About the different breeds and how to select the right one for your goals
Where to purchase your animals
What equipment you’ll need to raise your animals
What to feed and how to care for your animals
Animal health & working with a vet Principles of good housing
What Type of Animals Should I Raise?
The first thing to decide when starting a new pig enterprise is what is your end purpose with your pigs? This decision should directly reflect the markets a producer has available to sell pigs and consider the resources available on your farm and your individual goals with your pigs.
Pigs may be used to produce meat or generate seedstock (breeding animals). The intended markets may dictate what breed or breeds are best suited for the operation. In the end though, nearly all pigs become pork. The markets that differentiate pig production depend on what happens to that pig before it becomes pork. Major markets that occur in the interim of rearing pigs are:
Reproductive herds, which tend to focus on proliferating specific characteristics of a given breed or for creating pigs that are raised directly for pork. Sows and boars are typically sold for sausage at the end of their reproductive life.
the feeder and finishing pig markets. Marketing
Several markets are available for hogs. When choosing a market, you must decide whether your operation will focus on selling live animals or marketing meat. Many independent pig producers in the eastern United States focus on marketing of their hogs as freezer or retail cuts directly to the consumers due to access to markets with dense populations and open markets. Alternatively, many larger producers may focus on selling finished pigs to a large meat packer who acts as the broker of pork to the consumer through grocery stores, restaurants, or food service companies.
Keep in mind that some state laws prohibit the retail sale of meat unless the animal was processed in a USDA inspected facility. Producers often sell live animals to a customer, where the customer is then responsible for planning to have the hog processed. The terms of such an arrangement are individual to the producer and the customer, but the ease of such an arrangement makes it the most popular options for producers to sell pigs in large groups or on an individual customer basis. This arrangement allows greater flexibility to the buyer for where and how they want their pigs processed.
Nursery operations, which focus on rearing pigs from weaning of pigs until the ‘feeder’ stage, typically 40-80 lbs. These pigs are then sold to a 3rd operation to be reared for pork.
Finishing operations, which focus on rearing pigs for pork from the feeder stage. Of course, pig producers may rear pigs in all of these stages or in any combination of the stages. Regardless of the stage of production in which you hope to rear pigs, it is advantageous for producers to start by determining if they wish to raise purebred or commercial stock. A purebred operation typically raises animals of one breed or with the intention to keep breeds ‘pure’ to a historical breed standard. Often a purebred operation will have all registered animals that can also be sold through purebred sales. A commercial operation may have unregistered purebred animals, or they may have crossbred animals. Crossbred animals have the benefit of hybrid vigor, which is simply the ability of crossbred offspring to increase in productivity over the average of the breeds that were part of the cross. Crossbred pigs are very popular for pork production and are very commonly and easily found in
Other options for hogs include marketing breeding stock, feeder pigs sold to a grower, or market animals for junior shows. Breeding stock are typically purebred animals and may be marketed directly from the farm and through a registered sale. Work with your local extension educator to determine the best markets for your operation.
Yorkshire
Selecting a Breed
Each pig breed has different traits for which they are recognized. Breed associations can provide information on those traits and help you narrow your decision regarding what breed or breed combination fit best with your operation.
Pig breeds are often divided into maternal (dam, sow) and terminal (sire, boar) breeds. Maternal breeds are typically large framed and recognized for their ability to raise large litters of healthy wean piglets to weaning. Terminal breeds generally grow faster and leaner than maternal breeds as they are commonly selected for meat production and growth efficiency. In the United States, it is also common to seek breeds that are not directly classified as maternal or terminal types. These breeds are typically known for very specific traits and are prized for their novelty. These breeds can be classified as specialty breeds, though their unique characteristics vary significantly.
Maternal Landrace
Yorkshire
Chester White
Large Black Meishan
In many cases, it is advantageous to combine the genetics of the maternal and terminal breeds for specific environments or markets. Pig producers who combine the traditional maternal and terminal breeds to create a pig with both traits refer to this practice as ‘crossbreeding’. Common slang to refer to pigs produced from these pairings are ‘cross-bred’ pigs. Crossbreeding of pigs is so common, it is difficult to find pigs of a pure breed background without working with a pig producer who specifically works to maintain the characteristics of a specific breed.
Livestock can be purchased through several different means. Many sales are held across the country throughout the year and may offer only one breed, a variety of breeds, or crossbred pigs for sale. Another option would be to locate reputable breed-
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ers and purchase directly from their farm. A wide variety of livestock may be available at a local auction barn; however, let the buyer beware. Hogs sold through this venue are at greater risk of health issues and will require special handling when you return home to your existing herd.
Regardless of purchasing venue, careful selection of stock is important. Have a plan of what you need in your pigs before heading to the auction barn, show, or breeder to select your animals. If you are looking to improve particular traits in your herd, choose animals that are strong in those traits for breeding. Typically, good quality boars have a greater impact on the herd, having the ability to influence genetics over a greater number of offspring in the same year. A good quality sow, however, should never be regarded as unnecessary. Good maternal genetics are the foundation for any quality breeding herd. It is particularly advantageous to select gilts and sows of long body and sound feed and legs, able to farrow with minimal assistance, and capable of producing a litter at least 2 times per year.
Selection Principles
There are two methods to select livestock: individual performance records and visual appraisal. Animals should first be selected on performance (e.g., how much pigs weigh at weaning or time it takes to reach market weight), and then the higher-performing animals should be evaluated visually.
Performance selection principles evaluate measurable traits such as litter size, birth weight, weaning weight, average daily gain, or meat yield and quality. Producers who evaluate growth traits should adjust weaning weights to account for the sex of the pig, birth weight, age at weaning and weight, and average daily gain to market. Utilizing some key data and formulas can help producers evaluate growth traits. Commercial producers should utilize performance data when selecting a new boar or selecting semen for their breeding herd. Both the desirable performance of the boar, and the ability of the sow to birth and raise offspring are critical for a yielding a successful litter.
Visual animal appraisal evaluates aspects such as structural correctness, muscling, body capacity, and breed character. Structural correctness in pigs is highlighted by the ability of your livestock to move smoothly around their holding area, to rise and lay down without difficulty, and to perform your growth or reproductive objectives with little or no difficulty. Evaluating structural correctness allows producers to identify animals with defects that are not apparent through performance evaluation. Structural correctness should also be evaluated with housing considerations in mind. Sows reared in poor footing conditions, such as rocky soils, perpetually wet soils, or pitted paddocks, are dependent on heavier bones and sturdier feet and legs to rear a litter and get to food/water when conditions are less than ideal.
Facilities and Equipment Needs
After the appropriate animals are chosen for the operation, the equipment necessary to maintain those animals must be gathered. Hog facilities need a variety of structure and some equipment. Basic facility needs include feeders, watering systems, housing, and health care equipment. Because safety is a concern when managing these large animals, hog operations should also have equipment for handling pigs safely.
Housing
When caring for livestock, housing should always be a consideration. Housing needs vary across species, however for
pigs raised in seasonal climates, housing is a must. Pigs have a narrow thermal neutral zone, meaning they thrive and grow best under a narrow temperature range. Unlike sheep, goats, and cattle, pigs do not have a rumen to provide intense internal heat or a layer of dense hair or wool to act as outer insulation. In the summer, pigs can become sunburned or can easily overheat without shade.
Housing recommendations vary for the age, size, and weight of the pigs you intend to raise. Mature reproductive stock can handle cooler temperatures, but become heat-stressed more easily; young pigs are very easily chilled, even at seemingly mild temperatures. Finally, excessively wet conditions can lead to issues with land destruction by pigs and increase health-related productivity problems in your herd. When considering housing for pigs, first evaluate the climate that you are in, the location on your farm, and the size and number of pigs you wish to rear.
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Pasture Systems
Pasture markets for hogs are growing in popularity. Pasture is an ideal housing situation for ruminant animals and equids. Pigs, however, can be destructive to pastures if poorly managed. If you are planning to allow pigs access to pasture for your market, be sure to keep some considerations in mind.
Feeding pigs a complete and full diet is a must to protecting pastures.
A pig is not a ruminant animal; therefore, they do not have the digestive system to utilize forage as a primary food source.
Pigs that are underfed are more likely to be extremely destructive to soils as they search for more food.
Pigs will build a wallow or nesting area. Soils that are wet are more likely to be rooted up for wallows, while nesting areas tend to be formed in dry, bare soils or in forested spaces.
Fence lines must be strong. Pigs can be trained to an electric fence, however, a strong and reliable woven exterior fence is strongly encouraged. Loose pigs contribute to feral hog populations and federal USDA laws outline strict ramifications for loose pigs.
Water
Water is possibly the most important nutrient because it impacts feed consumption. Poor-quality water or not enough water can decrease feed intake and result in decreased animal performance. Many different styles of watering systems are available. The key is that water should be fresh, clean, and available at all times.
Nipple drinker
Many producers choose to install watering systems that can be accessed throughout housing or a pasture system to reduce the labor of hauling water. Depending on the system and region, it may be necessary to
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Feeders should be used to prevent pigs from eating off the ground. Well-designed feeders will also reduce feed waste on the ground. There are potential health concerns when pigs eat off the ground, including higher risk of excessive parasitic infections. Finally, feed costs represent approximately 60–80% of any hog operation and, as such, high-quality feeders and managing feed waste is a driving factor for managing costs.
Many different sizes and styles of feeders are available for hogs. Producers should be sure that all animals have access to the feeder if feeding at specified time frames. If animals have free-choice access to the feeders throughout the day, smaller feeders can be used. Generally, it is recommended that each pig needs 12–14 linear inches (35.5 cm) of feeder space per finishing pig. Each space can serve approximately 3 finishing pigs at a free-choice feeder. This recommendation can vary with pen space, stocking density, and housing design.
Fence line-style feeders allow producers access on one side to place feed and grain into the feeder while animals access their feed on the other side. Mobile circle feeders and sled feeders are popular for pigs reared outdoors. Particularly for pigs reared outside, covers for the feed openings are encouraged to keep feed fresh and dry.
Health Care Equipment
Routine health care employs practices to prevent disease. Common practices include vaccinating, castrating, teeth clipping, tusk removal, and deworming. These practices require basic equipment such as syringes, needles, and scalpels.
Hoof trimming is not considered routinely necessary in most hog operations. Hoof trimming might be needed on a reproductive operation, to care for boar and sow feet and prevent lameness. Most hogs must be put in a tilt table to have their hooves trimmed for the safety of both the trimmer and the animal. Therefore, many hog producers will contact a professional should hoof care be necessary.
you wish to use, be sure that it is calibrated and test the accuracy of your scale routinely before using it.
Reproduction and Breeding
Teeth clipping and tusk removal are unique procedures to pigs. Teeth clipping is often practiced in newborn pigs to prevent damage to the sows’ udder during nursing and to minimize damage to each other when piglets fight. Tusks are typically removed from older boars. Tusk removal should be done by a veterinarian or other trained individual.
Other Types of Equipment
Various other equipment may be used by hog operations to allow producers to handle or manage animals more efficiently. Some of this equipment can include sorting boards, rattles, chutes, snares, scales, and marking paint or spray. This type of equipment is used to handle animals individually from a group. It is easy to get large groups of pigs from just a few sows, but individual animal care or individual animal handling are often necessary to provide veterinary interventions or to send individual animals to market. Additionally, while pigs are very trainable, they are almost impossible to handle with a halter due to their head shape. It is far easier to move a pig with a sorting board or to hold a pig for health checks and procedures with a snare. While the pig might complain, these tools are very effective and offer no harm to the animal when used correctly.
Scales are useful to producers to monitor animal growth performance throughout the growing phase. Three types of scales are often used by livestock producers: beam, dial, and digital. Regardless of the type of scale
Gestation length for hogs is around 115 days, often just a day or two longer with sows that farrow large litters (over 12 or more pigs routinely). Pigs will have an estrous cycle throughout the year. However, in small sow herds, managing a defined breeding ‘batch’ will help improve the efficiency of the sow herd and marketability of the pigs. Many smaller operations breed sows to farrow in either the early spring or early fall. If you have a small operation and no resources to keep young pigs indoors, it is strongly discouraged to have a litter of pigs from November through January when they might have to be weaned to cold facilities. If you have heated or well-insulated farrowing and wean pig facilities, then farrowing can happen all year long with reduced chance of piglets experiencing deathly chill or getting crushed.
Managing a reproductive herd takes a solid understanding of the estrous cycle. The estrous cycle does vary slightly among breeds and ages of pigs; however, it is safe to follow a routine on a calendar until you observe your specific pig’s behaviors. Most sows will complete an estrous cycle every 18-21 days, with ovulation considered day 0 of the cycle. Gilts, or young females that have not yet farrowed a litter, will reach puberty at a varying age, but most gilts will have reached puberty by 6 months of age and are capable of breeding by 7 months of age. Before entering into managing a breeding herd, it is strongly encouraged that
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So you want to raise hogs?
CONTINUED
producers spend some additional time understanding the estrous cycle and the details of sow and early pig care.
Signs of Impending Farrowing
As a sow nears her time to give birth, she exhibits several signs that the birthing process will begin. A day or two before farrowing, the udder will begin to tighten. This tightening is the udder filling with colostrum. Colostrum is the first milk, and it contains antibodies that help protect newborn pigs from disease. In the hours prior to farrowing, the sow’s vulva will swell and become brighter in color. She will become restless and exhibit nesting behaviors.
In many species, a water bag will appear before the dam begins to push out the offspring. In pigs, no water bag appears. Rather, fluid will be expelled throughout the farrowing process as each piglet ruptures and parts with its individual placenta. This makes prediction of pig arrival difficult, and in most cases, farrowing is not considered to have started until the first piglet appears. Due to this, producers should check on sows at least 1 time per hour when waiting on piglets to arrive. A sow that is visibly pushing with no sign of a piglet for an hour or more should receive obstetrical assistance to investigate the progress of farrowing.
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Once farrowing has started, piglets are commonly delivered every 20 minutes or so; the early and later stages of farrowing may take longer. Sows also will not seek out and attend to each individual piglet like a cow or goat might with their offspring. Rather, the sow will attend to her litter as a group by calling them to her side to nurse. Piglets will also seek the sow from this call and from the heat she gives off. Piglets are quite small and this drive to seek heat can be dangerous for them. Crushing of piglets by the sow is a common cause of death in a new litter. Again, attentive care and the right facilities for farrowing will assist producers in managing their farrowing sows and litter. It is highly recommended to work with an experienced producer during farrowing before new producers start this venture on their own.
Feeding and Nutrition
All animals require water, protein, carbohydrates, and fats (to provide energy), vitamins, and minerals in their daily diet. These may come from a variety of sources but should be balanced to meet nutritional requirements. Nutrient requirements change throughout an animal’s lifetime and reflect its stage of production: growth, maintenance, breeding, pregnancy, or lactation (milk production).
Pigs require a complete mixed ration to ensure they receive the needed nutritional profile for growth and development. This is for a number of reasons, such as sorting behaviors, inability to process foods in all forms, and quality of offered feed sources. Sorting behaviors in pigs means pigs will sort out feeds they do not like. If pigs are offered multiple food types to complete their nutritional profile, they will favor some foods over others. This means they will not consume a nutritionally balanced profile. The best way to ensure pigs are consuming a complete nutritional profile is to offer a completely mixed ration in the form of a meal, pellets, or slurry that prevents them from sorting out some ingredients over others. These complete mixed rations should have adequate protein content as well as a balanced amino acid profile. Rations should also contain all the necessary energy, fiber, and micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) pigs need for the day. Keep in mind that protein, fiber, energy, and micronutrient need for pigs vary by stage of production
and age. The same diet that is used for just weaned pigs should not be used for maintaining breeding boars and sows.
Once pigs have received a complete ration, they can be supplemented with additional feedstuffs for satiety if needed. This is most useful in maintaining breeding stock. Mature sows and boars can benefit from straw or hay to chew between feedings. Finishing pigs placed out on pasture can benefit from rooting up planted tubers in the pasture. These supplemental ‘feeds’ have reduced digestibility for pigs. This means they can and will consume them, however, their ability to digest these feedstuffs and gain nutritional value from them is extremely limited. Young pigs should not be offered high fiber sources of feed stuffs as this only provides gut fill and prevents them from consuming the amount of feed necessary to meet growth and development requirements.
Health Issues
Health issues on pig farms depend on the environment pigs are reared in, ranging from exposure to soil pathogens and weather-induced stress all the way through nutrition and biosecurity-based health issues. Across all farms, pig care should focus on reducing animal exposure to high pathogen loads and novel pathogens and to care for pigs in a manner that optimizes their growth and performance, rather than impeding it. To do this, there are 3 key focuses for pig producers to keep watch on animal health and care.
Establish a working relationship with your local veterinarian. All producers should form a relationship with a veterinarian. This veterinary-client-patient relationship allows the veterinarian to become familiar with your farm management practices and your animals and to more quickly address any health issues within your herd.
Implementing biosecurity practices can help keep diseases off the farm. Any new animal that arrives at the farm—and animals that leave the farm and return—should be quarantined from other animals for three to four weeks. In addition, changing shoes and clothing after visiting locations where you had contact with other pigs can help prevent bringing diseases to your farm. Visitors to the farm should be asked to either disinfect their shoes or wear plastic disposable boots. Keep records of daily monitoring of animal body condition and behavior. Pigs will let you know when they are sick; they change physically and behave differently. These signs, however, are often subtle at first. Keeping records of progressive changes in your pigs’ physical condition and behavior allows you to keep track of how long they have been changing and when they may have gotten ill.
These 3 key focuses on farm can help producers focus the activities on their farm and more efficiently work with their veterinarian or other pig experts to troubleshoot the source of any illnesses that do occur on the farm.
Internal and External Parasites
Hogs reared outdoors are highly susceptible to parasitic infections. This is a multi-layered issue that typically requires producers to address the problems with routine treatment with broad-spectrum antiparasitics. Pigs reared indoors in environments that prevent build-up of manure have relatively low issues with parasites. In these cases, treatment with antiparasitic agents can be applied, as necessary. As with the above recommendations, work with your veterinarian to choose the appropriate medications for your situation. CONTINUED ON PAGE B9
New program offers incentives for adoption of cover crops
Farmers for Soil Health is a farmer-driven initiative for farmers aimed at improving soil health through the adoption of cover crops. The collaboration among the Soy Checkoff, Pork Checkoff and National Corn Growers Association in partnership with state commodity groups and conservation organizations seeks to double the adoption of cover crops to reach 30 million acres by 2030.
Through the Farmers for Soil Health program, enrolled farmers receive incentive payments for adopting cover crops on their farms. The incentives are supported by a $95 million U.S. Department of Agriculture Partnerships for Climate-Smart Commodities grant.
North Dakota State University is playing a pivotal role in the partnership by providing science-based technical assistance and outreach to farmers wishing to enroll.
Helping to coordinate Farmers for Soil Health activities in North Dakota is Rutendo Nyamusamba, NDSU Extension conservation agronomist stationed at the Dickinson Research Extension Center.
“Cover crops have many benefits, includ-
ing soil water and nutrient retention, reduced soil erosion, extending grazing periods and managing soil health aspects,” says Nyamusamba. “Our goal is to enroll 35,000 acres, or ap-
So you want to raise hogs?
Conclusion
Raising hogs can be a rewarding farming enterprise. Very few hog operations are identical to one another, allowing producers a variety of opportunities to develop a program that uniquely suits their lifestyle and farming enterprise. This brief introduction just touches on a few of the aspects to think about when considering a hog enterprise. Before beginning your own enterprise, seek the advice of your extension educator or experienced hog producers in your area.
Many opportunities exist for hog producers. This publication covers basic concepts related to raising these animals. new and beginning producers should seek further information on not only basic production practices, but also nutrition, reproduction, and health in order to produce highquality, healthy animals. For more information about pigs, visit Penn State Extension’s Swine webpage.
proximately 98 farmers into the program in North Dakota.”
“This program is unique because it was built by farmers for farmers, and it assists with the cost and learning curve of adopting cover crops,” says Ben West, Farmers for Soil Health executive director. “We built flexibility into the timing, allowing farmers to enroll their fields before or after planting cover crops.”
Enrollment is a simple online process that also positions farmers to take advantage of the new marketplace, providing a direct channel between farmers and end users. The fiscal year for the program is March 1 to February 28. The turnover between the previous year’s cover crop and the current year’s cover crops is February 28. The program also provides dedicated technical advisors to offer guidance and answer questions about transitioning fields to successful cover crop adoption.
If a field was planted to cover crops for the first time in the fall of 2024, it is eligible for a three-year contract payment of $50 per acre. This is structured as $25 the first year, $15 the second year and $10 the third year.
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Harnessing residual soil nitrogen following a dry season
By Javed Iqbal - Extension Nutrient Management and Water Quality Specialist | Guillermo Balboa - Nutrient Management Specialist | Richard FergusonExtension Soil Fertility Specialist | Bijesh Maharjan - Extension Soil and Nutrient Management Specialist | Nicolás Cafaro La Menza – Cropping Systems Specialist, Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, UNL
The 2024 growing season brought drierthan-average conditions to much of Nebraska, impacting crop yields and altering soil nutrient dynamics, especially for rainfed crops. During drought, crop growth is reduced, hence nitrogen movement and uptake are often restricted, leading to higherthan-normal levels of residual soil nitrogen. This can be beneficial for the next growing season as it provides readily available nitrogen for the new crop, but it’s important to monitor soil tests to determine the actual amount of residual nitrogen present.
As farmers look toward the 2025 season, this residual nitrogen might offer a valuable opportunity to optimize fertilizer planning, enabling cost reductions, improved crop yields, and enhanced environmental stewardship. Here’s how the farmers in dry-affected areas can effectively harness residual nitrogen for the coming season.
Why Residual Soil Nitrogen Increases After a Dry Year
Benefits of Using Residual Nitrogen in Fertilizer Planning
Cost Savings: By crediting residual nitrogen, farmers can significantly reduce the amount of nitrogen fertilizer applied. This is particularly valuable after a dry year, when fertilizer prices might fluctuate, and savings can help manage overall production costs.
Environmental Protection: Excessive nitrogen application can lead to nitrate leaching into groundwater, a major environmental concern. By crediting residual nitrogen, farmers apply only what the crop needs, reducing the risk of nitrogen pollution and promoting more sustainable agriculture.
Improved Crop Performance: Matching nitrogen applications to crop needs enhances nutrient uptake, which can improve crop health and yield. By accounting for residual nitrogen, plants receive adequate nitrogen without the stress of nutrient excess or deficiency.
Planning for Spring Nitrogen Needs
Incorporating residual nitrate-nitrogen from soil sampling into nitrogen fertilizer prescriptions can significantly reduce fertilizer costs per acre.
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Dry conditions limit nitrogen uptake in crops, as water is essential for nutrient transport and absorption. Without adequate moisture, nitrogen applied through fertilizers or naturally present in the soil often remains unused. Additionally, drought potentially reduces nitrogen losses from leaching and denitrification, allowing residual nitrogen — particularly nitrate — to accumulate in the soil profile, especially within the root zone.
Harnessing this residual nitrogen can provide a natural nutrient source for crops in the 2025 season, helping reduce the need for additional fertilizers, lowering costs, and preserving soil and water quality.
The Importance of Soil Sampling for Residual Nitrogen Assessment
To accurately gauge residual nitrogen levels, soil sampling is essential. Sampling the soil allows for a comprehensive view of nitrate levels across the soil profile. Here’s how soil sampling can help in optimizing nitrogen application:
Timing of Soil Sampling: After a dry season, soil sampling is ideally conducted in the spring before planting. This timing accounts for any winter nitrogen losses from leaching, ensuring a more accurate picture of available nitrogen. However, if conditions allow and you prefer a preliminary view, fall sampling can be useful — particularly in low-leaching soils.
Depth of Sampling: Sampling to 2 or 3 feet is critical, as nitrate can accumulate in lower soil layers after leaching from the surface. This comprehensive sampling depth provides the data needed to calculate an accurate nitrogen credit.
Using Test Results for Fertilizer Adjustments: Soil test results will reveal the available nitrate concentration, allowing farmers to adjust their nitrogen applications accordingly. For example, if residual nitrate levels are high, farmers can reduce their spring nitrogen applications, minimizing both costs and the potential for nitrate leaching.
While residual nitrogen after a dry year provides a valuable resource, farmers should approach nitrogen management for the new season with flexibility. Use the following guidelines to ensure nitrogen applications meet crop needs without excess: Conduct Spring Soil Sampling: Even if you sampled in fall, a spring follow-up test is beneficial. This accounts for any nitrogen movement or losses that occurred over winter.
Limit Early-season Applications: Apply only enough nitrogen at planting to meet initial growth needs, then follow up with side-dress applications as the crop grows. This approach minimizes early nitrogen losses and provides nutrients when plants can most efficiently use them.
Use Decision Support Nitrogen Recommendation Tools: The UNL digital nitrogen calculator, variable rate application, and sensor-based technologies can further refine nitrogen applications. These tools help distribute nitrogen only where needed, maximizing efficiency across variable field conditions.
Summary
Following a dry season, residual soil nitrogen becomes a key resource for improving both economic and environmental outcomes in the next growing season. By measuring and crediting residual nitrogen through soil sampling, adjusting fertilizer applications, and adopting strategic nitrogen management practices, farmers can achieve a balanced approach that supports crop productivity and minimizes unnecessary fertilizer use. Harnessing residual nitrogen is a powerful tool for smarter fertilizer planning, ensuring each application maximizes benefit while protecting valuable soil and water resources.
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At the age of 19, Cohen was determined to become a comedian. But after struggling for nine years, he gave up – he needed a real job to support his family. He worked odd jobs (including selling aluminum siding) until his 40s, when he decided to give show business a second try. Cohen went on to have a very respectable 40-year career in television and films under the name Rodney Dangerfield.
Managing cows through cold stress
By Bethany Johnston, Nebraska Extension Educator | Karla Wilke, UNL Cow/Calf Systems and Stocker Management | Mary Drewnoski, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Specialist
Cattle are naturally adapted to cold weather, but their ability to stay warm depends on factors such as their winter coat, body condition score (BCS), nutrition, and staying dry. Managing cows properly during winter is crucial to maintaining health and productivity. Cold stress increases their energy needs, and without sufficient energy intake, this can lead to weight loss and decreased body condition.
Effects of Body Condition Score (BCS)
Body condition score, based on the cow’s external fat layer, is a critical factor in a cow’s ability to handle cold stress. A healthy cow with a body condition score of 5 (on a scale from 1 to 9) has a good layer of fat that helps insulate her body and reduce the amount of energy needed to stay warm. In such cows, the lower critical temperature (LCT)—the temperature at which they begin to use extra energy to maintain body heat—is around 19°F, when they have a dry, thick winter coat. Cows in good condition can handle cold temperatures without needing additional energy supplementation until the wind chill falls below their lower critical temperature (LCT).
Since cows will lose weight due to winter conditions on low quality feeds, producers may consider adding extra external fat to cows in the fall, to achieve body condition scores 5.5 or 6. If cold or blizzard conditions happen, cows can lose one full condition score in two weeks. By starting with “fleshier” cows in BCS 5.5 or 6, producers can avoid cows turning thin (BCS 4).
The lower critical temperature (LCT) changes depending on the cow’s body condition and the weather conditions. A thin cow (body condition score of 4) has a higher LCT of about 27°F, meaning she will need to start using additional energy to stay warm at higher temperatures than a wellconditioned cow. If thin cows are exposed to cold weather, they will lose body condition more quickly and may not have enough stored fat to keep them warm. This can be particularly problematic during late gestation or calving, as cows in poor condition may give birth to weaker calves, or face difficulties during the breeding season.
The fall of 2024 has been relatively mild in Nebraska, but winter storms are due to sweep across the Plains. Due to the unseasonably warm weather this fall, cows may also have lighter hair coats. This makes managing cattle even more important, as cows might already be in thin condition due to drought-related pasture shortages. A thin cow with a body condition score of 4, for example, could require 8% more energy than a cow in good condition (BCS 5) just to maintain body temperature at 21°F. Consider feeding thin cows slightly more energy to gain condition during the fall to early winter, so that they have less energy needs during the rest of the winter.
Wet Hair
Wet hair significantly increases the lower critical temperature (LCT), raising the critical temperature to 53°F for a cow in good condition. In wet winters, especially with freezing rain, maintaining body condition becomes challenging as cows expend extra energy to stay warm.
Wind Protection
Wind increases heat loss, raising energy requirements. Providing windbreaks reduces energy needs by minimizing heat loss, helping cows maintain condition. For cows with wind protection, the ambient temperature can be used to estimate energy needs. Without wind protection, the wind chill temperature should be used to estimate energy needs.
Feeding Your Cows During Cold Weather
To meet the energy needs of cattle during cold stress, it’s important not to make drastic changes to their daily rations, but to provide consistent, high-energy feed during extended cold spells. Instead over a week or two, feed more of the same ration or supplement with higher-quality hay, grains like corn, or energy-rich feeds like distillers grains. Good quality forage/hay can also help, as the fermentation in the rumen adds internal heat to the animal.
When feeding lower quality hay, dormant range grazing or corn stalk grazing, additional feed will be needed. One option is to feed a higher quality hay source with higher total digestible nutrients (TDN), if available. Free choice high quality hay (58 to 60% TDN) can work down to temperatures of 34°F below the LCT of the cow (-15°F for cows in good condition with dry hair or 19°F with wet hair). If cows are
Managing cows through cold stress
CONTINUED FROM PAGE B12
grazing cornstalks or winter range, then supplementation with a high energy feed may be desirable. While corn can be used to provide more energy, it comes with risk. Feeding more than 2 to 3 pounds per head can decrease forage digestion, especially if the forage is lower in protein. Feeding corn with some alfalfa on low protein forages can mitigate this issue.
For corn supplementation, 3 pounds of corn (82% TDN) provides 2.5 pounds of TDN, which can offset energy requirements for a cow (BCS 5) down to 5°F with a dry coat or 38°F with a wet coat.
Distillers grains are another excellent choice-both high in energy and protein. Distillers grains can reduce forage substitution effects. Compared to corn, the decision to feed distillers grains lean more towards cost than digestion limitations. In the case of distillers and gestating cows, the pounds of TDN needed to account for energy used due to cold stress would be equal to the pounds of dry distillers that would need to be fed daily.
When wind chill temperatures are extremely cold or the cow has a wet hair coat, a lot of supplement would be needed to make up the greater energy needs and maintain body condition. For instance, if the wind chill was -10°F and the cows had a wet hair coat, then 8.9 pounds of dry distillers would be needed to account for the increased energy requirement. However, feeding these levels can be impractical. A better approach would be to provide a smaller amount of supplemental feed and to continue to feed the extra feed after the weather has moderated to allow cows to regain energy lost during the storm.
It is also important to remember that lactating cows have a much greater energy requirement than pregnant cows. Given this, the combination of cold stress and lactation can pull down BCS quickly.
For lactating cows, the energy demand is even greater, and cold stress can have a more immediate impact on their body condition. Ensuring that these cows have adequate nutrition before they start losing condition is key to preventing further complications, particularly during the harshest months of winter.
How to Calculate Extra Energy Needs for Cows
You will need to gather this information to figure the extra energy needs:
-the cow’s lower critical temperature (based on her body condition score)
-the outside temperature (ambient temperature) if a windbreak is provided or -the windchill temperature if no windbreak is provided. Using a cow’s lower critical temperature (LCT), you can figure the percent increase in energy based on the outside temperature. Use the windchill temperature if there is no wind protection. If there is wind protection, use the ambient temperature in the formula.
There is a 1% increase in energy needs for every 1° below the LCT.
Let’s assume a cow is in body condition score 5, which means the BCS 5 cow’s lower critical temperature (LCT) is 19°F. For this example, let’s assume the ambient temperature is 21°F, and the wind speed is 10 mph, which makes it feel like 11°F (the wind chill index).
No windbreaks:
Lower Critical Temperature – Wind Chill Index = Percent increase in energy requirements
For our example: 19 – 11 = 8 percent increase in energy requirements for a cow in good condition (BCS 5) with a dry winter coat.
If a windbreak is provided:
Lower Critical Temperature – Ambient Temperature = Percent increase in energy requirements
For this example: 19 – 21 = No increase in requirements for a good condition cow (BCS 5) with a dry winter coat.
The energy needs of various classes of cattle can be found here. A 1200-pound dry cow in late gestation has an energy requirement of 13 pounds total digestible nutrients (TDN). The cold described above in the no-windbreak situation increased this need by an additional 8% which is equal to 1 pound of TDN, for a total of 14 pounds TDN per day.
Conclusion
Proactive management during cold weather is essential to reduce cold stress in cattle. Monitor body condition, provide wind and moisture protection, and adjust feed to meet increased energy needs. Ensuring cows are in good condition before winter and supplementing their diets as necessary will help maintain herd health and productivity through the cold months.
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National Hot Tea Month
A warm, steaming cup of tea is welcome at any time of day, especially in the cold winter months. Whether as an alternative to coffee with the rich tradition of Irish Breakfast tea, or as a quiet cap to the end of the day, settling your nerves with Chamomile and Lavender, tea is amazing. You can drink it like the American’s do, with lemon and sugar, or perhaps a bit of honey, or you can mix in milk or creamer for a fully European experience.
History of National Hot Tea Month
Tea has been being drunk for thousands of years, originating from deep within the country of China. From there it grew in prominence until it was one of the most important beverages in the world, rivaling coffee as the drink of choice for mornings, and for those who needed a pick-me-up. Tea has been seen as a mark of sophistication, and has practically redefined British culture, having become completely inseparable from what it means to be British.
Tea isn’t just a warm and delicious beverage, it can also be used medicinally. There are thousands of herbal teas out there, and each of them can be used to help fortify the body, and even help you heal and fight infection. One of the most common uses is to help soothe nerves as night time rolls in with a cup of mint and chamomile tea.
Tea has also been having important studies going on with it, with three glasses of green tea being shown to actually enhance the amount of calories that are burned in 24 hours. Imagine being able to help yourself burn away unwanted fat and combat obesity just by enjoying something you already love. Oh tea, is there anything you can’t do?
How to celebrate National Hot Tea Month
Celebrating Hot Team Month is as simple as brewing up a cup of your favorite tea, and sitting back and relaxing as you sip it down. There is a whole world of teas out there, literally thousands of varieties that are picked at different stages of the tea bushes growth cycle, and then are mixed or aged carefully to bring about a unique and desirable flavor and aroma.
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January 15, 16, & 17, 2025 Visit
By Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU
“I am thinking about writing a column about vitamin D. What do you know about vitamin D?” I asked my husband.
We were sitting at a window in a restaurant looking out at the darkness of early evening.
I could almost hear his thoughts: “Oh no, I’m going to be in a column.”
“Why don’t you interview these people?” he asked as he looked at the room full of restaurant guests.
“I’d probably be kicked out of the restaurant for disturbing the patrons,” I said.
“Vitamin D supplements take the place of sunlight in the winter,” he noted.
That was a good summary of vitamin D. I turned off my annoying “inner writer” at that point, and we enjoyed our meal.
Vitamin D is made in our bodies by the action of sunlight on our skin. About five or 10 minutes of sunlight two or three times a week on exposed skin, such as our arms or legs, does a good job of nudging our bodies to make vitamin D.
In the cold winter months, not many people are standing outside exposing any skin to the sun.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported that nearly one in 10 people has a severe vitamin D deficiency. Black people have the highest prevalence of vitamin D deficiency.
Those of us in the northern part of the U.S. do not make enough vitamin D from sun exposure during our cold months.
Vitamin D serves a wide range of functions. It allows our bodies to absorb calcium and maintain bone strength throughout life. Without adequate vitamin D, children may develop rickets with characteristic bowed legs and joint deformities.
Our muscles, heart and immune system need vitamin D for proper functioning. Some studies have shown relationships between too little vitamin D and greater risk for cancer, diabetes, depression and other mental illnesses. Studies are ongoing.
Meeting vitamin D needs is important throughout life. The daily recommendation is 600 International Units for everyone up to 70 years old. People older than 70 need 800 International Units.
Many scientists think that recommendation is too low. You probably want to have a discussion with your provider.
Besides sun’s action on our skin, we get vitamin D from food and from vitamin supplements. However, we have somewhat limited options for foods high in vitamin D. Salmon, vitamin D-fortified milk, some types of ready-to-eat cereal, sardines, eggs, beef liver and tuna are among the best sources.
Cod liver oil is among the best sources with 170% of the Daily Value (the amount needed per day) per tablespoon. Salmon is a more appetizing source of vitamin D with 71% of the daily value in three ounces, while one cup of milk has about 15% of the Daily Value. Some types of ready-to-eat cereal have about 10% of the Daily Value.
Be sure to read Nutrition Facts labels to learn more about your food choices, because vitamin D is now included on nutrition labels.
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When is a door not a door?
When it’s ajar.
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Why was the picture sent to jail? It was framed.
Celebration Of Life Month
It’s the beginning of a new year, and that makes it the perfect time to start appreciating the lives that we lead, and the blessings that come to us every day. Part of that recognition is appreciating the physical carriage that is our bodies, and preparing to celebrate the year ahead.
History of Celebration of Life Month
Food for Health International is a company that focuses on producing and distributing whole food and preparation for emergencies. With its unique techniques and methods they work towards providing rich, healthful food at reduced prices. As part of their mission, they’ve introduced the Celebration of Life Month to help remind everyone that taking care of our bodies is taking care of our souls, and helps us celebrate every day.
How to celebrate Celebration of Life Month
Celebrating this important month can be challenging, as we’ve always learned to work work work, and to prepare ourselves for the next step in our growth in careers and life. Celebration of Life month reminds you that you need to take some time to revitalize yourself if you want to experience life to its fullest.
Start off by taking a few mental health days, just take the time to sit back and relax, and reassess the past year and what you’re going to be doing moving forward with this year. Enjoy your favorite leisure activity, and do whatever it is that helps you recharge when things are just getting too crazy.
When you’re sitting at work, be sure to do everything you can to remind yourself that you are not your job. By not identifying yourself with your work, you can enjoy the day free from the idea that your success there measures your worth. Work is just another passing of the day, and at the end of the day you need to remember to celebrate the glories of life.
Family and friends are an important part of celebrating life, so be sure to take the time to get together with them during Celebration of Life month. Whether it’s a simple lunch date, or a full weekend away in the mountains, take some time this month to get back together with those you love and who support you throughout the year.
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What did the rope say when it got tangles?
“Oh no, knot again!”
Strategy for increasing feed efficiency for cows
By Lisa Moser, K-State Research
Many people add such supplements as vitamins, minerals, probiotics and botanicals to their diet for a variety of reasons, but often it is to maintain or improve their health.
Feed additives are also incorporated in cattle diets with a similar end goal, say the experts at the Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute.
Speaking on a recent Cattle Chat podcast, the experts said that adding an ionophore to the cow’s diet is beneficial for her feed efficiency. Ionophores are antibiotics that target bacteria and protozoa in the rumen.
“Ionophores change the rumen microbial population, so the animal has a more efficient fermentation of carbohydrates, and that helps improve the feed efficiency of those animals,” K-State beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster said.
When beef producers consider incorporating ionophores, more typically they are added to the rations of feeder calves, Lancaster said, adding that it does have some benefits for cows that are being fed a grain mix in the winter months to maintain or increase their body condition.
“If you are already feeding a grain and protein mix, then adding ionophores makes sense because it will increase the feed efficiency,” Lancaster said.
He added that producers are adding an expense to the budget when they offer grain to the cows, so feeding ionophores can maximize the value of the investment. However, for producers whose cows are in good body condition, they likely won’t
and Extension news service need to be supplemented with grain and therefore feeding an ionophore may incur additional expense, according to Lancaster.
“Because of the cost of this supplement, the benefit of feeding the ionophore may not outweigh the cost for cows who don’t otherwise need to be fed a grain mix,” Lancaster said.
For producers who opt to incorporate ionophores into the diet, K-State veterinarian Brian Lubbers cautions them to make sure they are feeling the appropriate amount due to the health implications of overconsumption.
“There are toxicity issues with ionophores and if cattle get too much it can kill them, so make sure if you are adding them to the grain mix on the farm or have that batch prepared at the feed mill that the right amount of ionophores are included,” Lubbers said. “Because if you get off a decimal place when calculating the amount, it can have drastic consequences.”
He also had an additional caution for beef cattle producers who maintain horses.
“Horses are extremely sensitive to the toxic effects of an ionophore; even the amount that is safe for cattle will kill horses,” Lubbers said. “While deaths relating to ionophores are rare, when they happen, they can be significant to that operation.”
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English is funny: They’re head over heels in love. That’s nice, but all of us do almost everything head over heels. If we are trying to create an image of people doing cartwheels and somersaults, why don’t we say, They’re heels over head in love?
WE LET GREAT IDEAS GO TO OUR HEADS
Drones and the Nebraska Pesticide Act
By Dirk Charlson - Statewide Digital Ag Extension Educator |
Gary Stone - Extension Educator | Libby Walsh - Nebraska Department of Agriculture
Pesticide/Fertilizer Program Manager
G03 GATHERING SYSTEM
For more than 55 years, Fantini has been coming up with great ideas to make harvest better … like the gathering system on our G03 sunflower header. The unique rubber tooth design delivers sunflower heads to the auger gently, but firmly, for better crop retrieval than any other header on the market.
The Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) classifies the use of an unmanned aerial vehicle to apply any pesticide as an aerial application. The Nebraska Pesticide Act (Act) requires all aerial pesticide applicators of any Restricted Use Pesticide (RUP) to possess the Aerial Pest Control category on their applicator license.
Drone Requirements
ALL spray drone pilots must hold an FAA Part 107 certification (or Part 61 manned aircraft license with a UAS endorsement).
ALL drones, regardless of takeoff weight, must be registered with the FAA by the drone owner.
Spray Drone Definitions: “Heavy” UAS or “Heavy” drones (ex. DJI Agras T-50) are drones weighing 55 lbs. or greater on takeoff; Small UAS or small drones (ex. DJI Agras T-10) are drones weighing less than 55 lbs. on takeoff. For “Heavy” drones, the pilot needs to hold a Class 3 Medical Certificate, which is only granted by an FAA-designated Aviation Medical Examiner. Small UAS weighing less than 55 lbs. on takeoff, no medial certification is required. For “Heavy” drones, the drone needs to be listed as an approved aircraft for aerial application by the FAA under 49 USC Section 44807. Not all “Heavy” spray drones are FAA approved to apply pesticides. “Heavy” drones need to be compliant with this section; only the FAA makes this determination. Small UAS are not required to be approved via Section 44807.
When flying a “Heavy” drone for aerial application, the pilot needs to obtain a Certificate of Authorization (COA) for approval to fly in national airspace. For small UAS, the pilot may only need to request airspace approval through Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability (LAANC).
Regardless of takeoff weight, any drone used in aerial application needs to meet the requirements of Part 137 Dispensing Chemicals and Agricultural Products. Since Part 137 is designed for aerial applications with manned aircraft, drone operators need to request various exemptions (also known as Part 137 exemptions) with the FAA to use drones for aerial applications. For small UAS, in addition to Part 137 exemptions, various exemptions to Part 107 need to be requested, such as waiver to transport hazardous materials. The above FAA regulations apply whether the applicator is applying products to land they own, land they rent, or as a service, and regardless of whether the pesticide is general use or restricted use.
Only pesticides approved for aerial applications may be applied using a drone.
Pesticide Application Requirements
In Nebraska, a person piloting the aircraft or drone is considered the applicator even if they do not handle the product; therefore, the pilot must hold a pesticide applicator license. Mixers and loaders would only need Worker Protection Standard training and would not be required to hold an applicator license.
In Nebraska, NDA requires spray drone pilots to possess either a Commercial or Non-Commercial Pesticide Applicator license when applying Restricted Use Pesticides (RUPs). Private pesticide applicators making drone applications of RUPs to their personal property or property they rent need to hold the Aerial Pest Control Category 12 by obtaining a commercial or noncommercial pesticide applicator license.
Drone applications of pesticides require farmers to meet strict FAA and Nebraska licensing regulations to ensure safety and compliance
Drones and the Nebraska Pesticide Act
CONTINUED FROM PAGE B20
(Category 12 cannot be added to private licenses but if a producer is only applying on their property, they can be eligible for a noncommercial with the farm listed as the employer). Commercial/noncommercial applicators must also pass the General Standards (00) examination. If the commercial pesticide applicator wishes to make pesticide applications to other sites other than agriculture, they must pass the examinations for those categories also.
Once the commercial pesticide applicator obtains all necessary FAA approvals (i.e., Exemptions within Part 107, Part 137, and Section 44807), they will need to obtain a Nebraska Aerial Pesticide Business License.
Additional Resources Study Manuals for Aerial Pest Control, Category 12 & other categories https://marketplace.unl.edu/pested/ commercial-noncommercial-study-materials
PRINT Study Manuals: These hardcopy manuals can be ordered online with a credit card and are mailed to you.
DIGITAL FLIP BOOKS: Our FlipBooks are enhanced digital versions of our traditional print manuals. Most have video training embedded to accommodate multiple learning styles. This is the same video training presented at our initial in-person training sessions. Purchase of a FlipBook gives you a one-year subscription to the product. Internet access is required to use FlipBooks.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Drone Information, https://www.faa.gov/uas
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National Bootlegger’s Day
Celebrated on January 17th
Bootleggers, rum-runners, whiskey smugglers and moonshiners represent the idea of freedom that was particularly embodied during the prohibition years in the United States. Told that they couldn’t drink, make or sell alcohol, many people decided that they were going to fly under the radar and make their own rules, secretly manufacturing and producing whiskey, moonshine and other liquors.
History of National Bootlegger’s Day
The term “bootlegger” got its start in the United States back in the 1880’s when Midwestern white men would slip flasks of liquor into their boots so they could illegally trade them with the Native Americans.
When Prohibition became a reality in the United States in 1920, it didn’t stop people from making, drinking or transporting alcohol. Instead, it really just seemed to encourage people to make and sell their alcohol on the side, in an illegal manner – and the idea of bootleggers became even more popular.
Those who started making and peddling alcohol illegally were often known as bootleggers, whiskey peddlers, moonshiners, rum-runners and more. Although prohibition didn’t last long, it was a time of much illegal activity in the US. And since that time, the idea for bootlegging has expanded from not only alcohol but also to include people who produce and distribute anything in an illegal manner, particularly media.
One famous alcohol that was made during prohibition in the United States was called Templeton Rye. Named after the town in which it was made, Templeton, Iowa, this illegal liquor supplemented the income for the farmers in the area. Of higher quality than many bootleg alcohols, Templeton Rye was said to be a favorite of mobster Al Capone and was served in many speakeasies in Chicago, Kansas City and other places.
In 2006, Infinium Spirits, a family owned liquor company, brought its own version of Templeton Rye whiskey back into production in the mid-western United States where it claimed the use of a prohibition era recipe. Originally this whiskey revival was distilled in Indiana, but its small batch plant brought production back to Templeton, Iowa in 2018.
Infinium Spirits founded National Bootlegger’s Day to pay special attention specifically to their Templeton Rye whiskey, but also to celebrate the freedom that was found after the 13 years of prohibition was experienced in the United States.
Alcohol Timeline
7000 BC - Alcohol is brewed. As early as this time, evidence shows that humans have been brewing alcohol from fermented fruits.
1494 AD - Patent for distilling spirits is issued. In Scotland, a friar named John Cor makes his distillation process official. 1920 - Prohibition is started, inspiring bootleggers. In the United States, the sale, production and transportation of alcohol is prohibited with the 18th Amendment.
1933 - Prohibition ends. On December 5, the 21st Amendment is ratified and signed by US President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
2015 - First National Bootlegger’s Day is celebrated. Established by Infinium Spirits, this day is founded on the birth date of Templeton Rye, a legendary whiskey made during prohibition.
More science behind toys
Play-Doh
Although Hasbro won’t reveal its exact recipe, Play-Doh is essentially wheat starch and warm water with some lubricants and preservatives. The water makes the wheat starch swell and become supple, giving the Play-Doh its moldable quality. (That’s why it gets hard and crumbly if left out: The water evaporates, and the wheat starch shrinks and loses its flexibility.)
Super Ball
Polybutadiene is a synthetic rubber that’s brittle when cold and goo when hot, neither of which is useful in a ball. But add sulfur, cook the rubber at 330°F while adding 3,500 pounds of pressure per square inch, and it become super-bouncy. Size matters: The Super Ball must be molded to about two inches in diameter, or the heat and pressure process won’t work.
Lego Bricks
Giant hoses suck different-colored plastic granules from trucks into three-story-high metal silos. They’re fed into molding machines, heated to 450°F, then fed into hollow LEGO brick molds. The machines applied hundreds of tons of pressure to make sure each brick has the perfect shape. Then the bricks are cooled and ejected. But you have to put them together.
Phone Nathan at 701-240-5737 or 1-800-735-5846, email: swensonrv@srt.com
Nebraska field experiments investigate biochar impact to soil health and crop yields
By
Humberto Blanco - Professor of Soil Science | Cody Creech - Dryland Cropping Systems Specialist | Amanda Easterly - Research Assistant Professor | Rhae Drijber – Professor in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture | Elizabeth S. JeskeDepartment of Agronomy and Horticulture Research Technologist feedstock, biochar amount applied, and biochar properties vary. More field data from temperate soils are needed to better understand the potential benefits and limitations of biochar use.
Does applying biochar improve the health of soils and crop yields? This is a question that some may ask when they hear about biochar. There are little data from long-term and well-designed field experiments to answer this question. The few field studies in temperate regions show limited or mixed effects of biochar on soils and crop yields. In contrast, biochar has been shown to improve soils and crop yields in subtropical and tropical regions.
Often, biochar benefits observed in other regions (subtropical and tropical regions) are extended by popular media to temperate soils. Biochar benefits observed elsewhere may or may not be observed in temperate soils because site-specific conditions including soil type, cropping systems, crop management, scale of farming, biochar
Table 1. Research questions targeted.
Background
1. The few biochar studies in temperate regions were on nearly-level, fertile and highly productive soils.
2. These few studies observed small or no biochar effects on soil properties and crop yields.
1. Most studies were conducted in the greenhouse using large amounts of biochar (>20 ton/acre).
2. High biochar application rates may not be economical.
1. Soil and crop benefits of biochar may be small or inconsistent, depending on site-specific conditions.
2. Studies coupling biochar with other amendments are rare.
Where and How are the Experiments Being Conducted?
The ongoing experiments are being conducted at three sites with environmentally sensitive soils (sandy, sloping and semiarid) beginning in spring 2020 (Figure 1). The sandy and sloping sites are on-farm experiments located in eastern Nebraska near Stanton and Beaver Crossing, Nebraska, while the semi-arid site is located at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s High Plains Agricultural Laboratory near Sidney, Nebraska. The annual mean precipitation is 29 inches for the sandy and sloping (711% slope) sites in eastern Nebraska, and 18 inches for the semi-arid site in western Nebraska.
The experiment is a split-plot arranged in a randomized complete block design with five wood biochar treatments (0, 2.81, 5.62, 11.25, and 22.5 ton/ac) as main plots (30 feet by 35 feet) and three cover treatments (no cover crop, winter rye, and mixture of winter rye, Austrian winter pea and radish) as split plots (15 feet by 35 feet) replicated four times. Wood biochar (83.6% carbon and 94% of particles sized between 1 to 4 mm) was acquired from High Plains Biochar after pyrolysis at 760°C.
The biochar was disked into the soil to about four inches once in spring 2020, then the experiment was managed as no-till
Research Questions
In 2020, we set out to answer the specific questions in Table 1. We selected three environmentally sensitive soils, including sandy, sloping and semi-arid soils across Nebraska. We hypothesized that environmentally sensitive soils could rapidly benefit from biochar. In each soil, we have been measuring soil health indicators and crop yields after wood biochar application with and without the addition of winter cover crops. This ongoing multi-site biochar project is funded by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Foundational Program.
Research Questions
Wouldn’t biochar application to degradation-prone soils including sandy, sloping and semi-arid soils be more beneficial than in highly productive soils?
What is the minimum amount of biochar that can be applied to croplands to observe any potential benefits on soils and crops?
Would combining biochar with cover crops enhance biochar performance relative to biochar alone?
going forward. The crop rotation is cornsoybean for the sites in eastern Nebraska, and the winter cover crops are drilled in late October after corn or soybean harvest. At the semi-arid site, we planned to have a pea-winter wheat–pea rotation, but persistent drought did not allow successful crop establishment during the three years (2020, 2021, 2022) after biochar application.
What Have We Learned After Three Years?
Figure 2. Cover crop biomass production averaged across three years for the sandy and sloping sites. Biomass production was also averaged across single species and cover crop mixture because differences
Your fantastic feat..er, feet
On a mile run, your amazing feet endure about 1,500 heel strikes at a force over two times the body’s weight. To a climber, they’re grippers and levers. To a skater, they’re accelerators, steering mechanisms, brakes, and shock absorbers. To a high jumper, they’re levers and launching pads. In most other sports, feet are the literal foundation of performance as they balance, support, and propel an athlete.
Our feet are mobile miracles made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and 112 ligaments, not to mention the nerves, blood vessels, and tendons that combine to form your personal transportation network. Your feet have three bony arches: a tall one along the inner edge of the foot, a smaller arch on the outer edge, and the curve that runs the width of the foot between the ball and heel. Together they form an arched vault that not only distributes your weight but is also flexible enough to help you move.
The ligaments that bind the bones of your arch are elastic, so they can flatten out, then spring back to shape. When you take a step, your foot rolls outward and your arch flattens and stiffens into a lever to push your foot off the ground. Then your arch springs back to a curve with an added bounce that propels you along. When you set your foot down, your arch rolls outward and becomes flexible to absorb impact. With every step your foot propels you, stabilizes you, and absorbs shock–all while supporting your weight.
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Nebraska field experiments investigate biochar impact to soil health and crop yields
CONTINUED FROM PAGE B24
were not significant (ns = not significant). Different lowercase letters denote significant differences. Limited soil moisture did not allow cover crop establishment at the semi-arid site.
Cover crops did not grow at the semi-arid site (western Nebraska) due to persistent drought. This suggests combining cover crops with biochar may not be feasible in water-limited regions, especially when precipitation is below normal.
Cover crops established well at the sandy and sloping sites in eastern Nebraska due to higher precipitation than in the semi-arid
site (Figure 2). However, cover crop biomass was relatively low and did not exceed 0.27 tons/ac. Winter cover crops drilled in fall after corn or soybean harvest do not often produce high amounts of biomass. The synergism between wood biochar and cover crops was not significant. The relatively low production of cover crop biomass and short experiment duration may have limited biochar-cover crop synergism.
Soil C concentration increased, as expected, but a significant amount of C was lost during the three years likely due to C emissions, soil erosion and decomposition.
Biochar improved some soil properties more at the sandy and sloping sites than at the semi-arid site. The highest rate of biochar application (22.5 ton/ac) improved soil sorptivity (early stages of water infiltrations) in the sandy and sloping sites in the first year, but not in the third year (Table 2).
At the sandy site, biochar application at high rates (>11.25 ton/ac) increased soil organic matter concentration, soil pH, and available water in the first year but not in the
third year (Table 2). This suggests biochar benefits in sandy soils could be short-lived. At the sloping site, biochar application at high rates increased organic matter concentration and microbial biomass after three years (Table 2).
Biochar did not affect nitrate leaching potential and P concentration but increased K concentration (Table 2).
Biochar did not increase corn and soyCONTINUED ON PAGE B28
Fire damage and crop residue impacts
By Jenny Rees - Extension Educator, UNL
With the dry conditions and various fires that have occurred, we have received questions regarding the nutrient value in the residue and/or soil impacts. The resources listed at the conclusion of this document can be of benefit to those impacted, particularly the South Dakota State University document in working through a potential value loss.
When residue is burned, most nitrogen and sulfur in the residue are lost to the atmosphere; however, the phosphorus and potassium are retained in the ash (as long as it doesn’t blow away). In spite of this, short-term nutrient loss from the residue is minimal for most of our Nebraska soils.
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin looked at the need to replace nitrogen to the succeeding corn crop when soybean residue was either removed or not removed. They found no difference in nitrogen impacts to the corn crop regardless of whether the residue was removed; this suggests there is no need to replace the nitrogen in burnt soybean residue.
When looking at corn residue removal prior to corn planting, research from USDA-ARS in Nebraska also suggested no need to replace the nitrogen lost from the residue. They found increased mineralization due to the change in C:N ratio when residue was removed. Previous research compiled in this resource from South Dakota State shared the same sentiments.
Regarding longer-term nutrient loss, a UNL NebGuide shares for every 40 bu/ac of corn or sorghum, approximately one ton of residue is produced. Each ton of corn and sorghum residue contains approximately 17 lb N, 4 lb P2O5, 37 lb K, and 3 lb S. For every 30 bu/ac of soybean residue, approximately one ton of residue is produced with 17 lb N, 3 lb P2O5, 13 lb K, and 2 lb S for each ton of residue produced.
Perhaps the greatest losses to consider are organic matter, soil loss and soil moisture. Regarding organic matter, the soil holds the greatest portion of this. One year of residue is minimal, attributed with the potential of increasing organic matter 0.030.06%, depending on tillage type, crop, etc. Soil erosion due to wind/water can result in organic matter loss and loss of more productive soil. This is hard to quantify.
Examples
Soil moisture losses in no-till, non-irrigated fields — particularly in a dry year such as this — can be impactful. Former UNL Extension Irrigation Specialist Norman Klocke reported on Kansas research showing that leaving the residue in place resulted in a savings of 3.5 inches of soil water. Based on that, Bob Klein, Emeritus Crop Specialist shared, in a dryland situation, each additional inch of available water could translate into approximately 12 bushels of corn per acre for around 42 additional bushels of corn per acre (based on 3.5 inches).
The following are some examples of soil moisture impacts on yields provided by Paul Hay, Extension Educator Emeritus, and a Jefferson County farmer who shared their experiences.
Situation One
Fire across 30 acres of long-term no-till which was soybean stubble going to dryland corn. Fire occurred in fall after soybean harvest. Loss estimates of corn crop from crop insurance adjuster and Extension Educator Paul Hay were 26 and 28 bushels per acre.
Situation Two and Three
Fires in spring from escaped grass fire and burning barrel. Fires burned 13 and 38 acres of soybeans in corn stubble on long-term no-till. Insurance companies could not understand how new crop soybeans could be killed by fire. Replant is both situations were 4-6 bushels per acre less and were taller and some lodging occurred.
Situation Four
Three fires along highway from truck bearing. Fires occurred in early winter. Soybeans into long-term no-till corn stubble under a pivot — no measurable effect.
Dryland corn into long-term no-till soybean stubble — 15-20 bushel per acre loss.
Dryland soybeans in long-term no-till corn stubble — two to three bushel per acre reduction, beans were taller but lodging was not severe.
Example from a Jefferson County long-term no-till farmer: A wildfire burned across the corner of my Thayer County dryland farm six miles west of Daykin several years ago. This was dryland corn residue that burned in early spring, and then was planted to dryland beans. It was an average to slightly dry year for moisture. At harvest, the beans were noticeably shorter with less branching and less pods. The yield monitor showed five to 10 bushels less yield in the burned area. My explanation for the lower yield at the time was moisture loss due to no ground cover and greater evaporation.
Considerations
Use of soil moisture sensors can give an indication of soil moisture differences between burned and non-burned areas of fields or between fields. Direct yield comparisons between fields are difficult to make due to planting dates, hybrids/varieties, agronomic practices, etc., but important to still collect and assess.
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Many Asian countries aren’t fans of peanut butter’s creamy texture and sweetness. In places like Japan, people prefer whole peanuts or peanut sauces with savory flavors. Peanut butter is an unusual product there, sometimes seen as overly processed or sugary.
Extension cattle specialists seek to uncover how wildfire smoke affects cows
Cattle ranchers east of the Cascades spent much of the summer evacuating their herds from wildfires that scorched nearly 2 million acres.
Even if the animals were moved safely away from the flames, they faced another potential danger: smoke exposure.
Across the state, on both dairy and beef operations, cows have been getting sick. Juliana Ranches, an Oregon State University Extension Service beef specialist, describes a rancher with cattle experiencing “running rose, running eyes and very bad discharge.”
Ranches has teamed with Jenifer Cruickshank, OSU Extension’s statewide dairy specialist, to study the effects of smoke exposure on cows. “We hypothesize that by inhaling the smoke, their lungs are drying and that leads to bacterial development which gets them sick,” Ranches said.
Exposure can happen naturally, by observing cows exposed to smoke during a regular fire season. Or exposure can happen artificially, when researchers place cattle in an enclosed environment with a set amount of smoke.
Cattle are exposed to wildfire smoke in Harney County in the summer of 2024.
Since the exact path and ferocity of wildfires are outside of researchers’ hands, Cruickshank explained that natural exposure is a tricky research method. Cruickshank is conducting a study with the University of Idaho that compares a herd in Corvallis with a herd in Moscow, Idaho.
“The design was predicated on the assumption that Moscow would get some smoke and Corvallis would not,” Cruickshank said. While this is a fair assumption based on weather patterns in the two areas, it ultimately amounts to a “gamble,” said Cruickshank.
Moscow did end up getting smoke, but it was mild. The results were less robust than the researchers had hoped.
For the project that Ranches spearheaded, eight heifers were exposed to smoke where air quality was considered unhealthy at the “purple level” according to the Air Quality Index (AQI) in an enclosed barn for a week. The researchers used camera feeds to continuously monitor the animals.
During and after both projects, researchers test health metrics in the cattle such as blood samples, lung ultrasounds, and analysis of immune function.
Cruickshank and Ranches cautioned that that the research is still in the early stages.
“We’re definitely in the place where we have lots more questions than answers,” said Cruickshank. “If we have a better understanding of what the effects of smoke exposure are, that can point us in the direction of what might be good interventions.”
Smoke-induced stress?
Both studies aren’t just measuring the effects of smoke. They are also testing for stress markers. Preliminary results show increases in cortisol levels and inflammation, in addition to an immune response.
“It’s very stressful for those animals too,” said Ranches. “Maybe we cannot prevent the fires, but we can minimize things that would make them more stressful.”
Ranches and Cruickshank recommend that when cattle are exposed to wildfires smoke producers minimize other stressful events like weaning or vaccination. “Everything we can do to minimize that stress is valuable,” said Ranches.
Cruickshank said that waiting until air quality is better reduces “that layering of stressors.”
Next season, Ranches will provide some of the cattle in her experiment with a solution that will help reduce water loss and improve hydration. Cruickshank and Ranches will communicate the efficacy of management options as they are confirmed through research.
In the meantime, the best management technique ranchers can do to protect their cattle is to have a strong evacuation plan in place.
“Producers have lost animals,” said Ranches, “They lost property, pasture and everything. It’s a major loss.” Some ranchers credit virtual fencing — which allows producers to use GPS collars to move their animals — as the only reason their cattle survived.
“Hopefully they will never have to worry about it, and they will never have to evacuate,” said Ranches, “But if they do, I would love for them to be ready.”
Nebraska field experiments investigate biochar impact to soil health and crop yields
CONTINUED FROM PAGE B26
bean yields (Table 3), but 22.5 ton/ac of biochar increased cover crop biomass production at the sloping site by 0.12 ton/ac (Figure 2).
Cover crop biomass between single species and cover crop mixture did not differ.
What Is the Take-home Message?
Biochar can improve some soil properties in some soils, but large amounts of biochar (at least 11.25 ton/ac) are needed, which may be uneconomical for practical use.
Biochar benefits generally decrease with time (about one year) after biochar application.
Biochar does not generally boost crop yields but may slightly increase cover crop biomass production on a site-specific basis when applied at high rates (22.5 ton/ac).
Growing cover crops after biochar application does not boost biochar benefits in environmentally sensitive soils in Nebraska. Overall, the small and site-specific effects of biochar suggest that biochar use should be targeted to solve specific soil problems. We expect that biochar benefits are more likely in acidic, low organic matter, and low K soils.
National Slow Cooking Month
This is a month for cuddling up by the fire and eating giant bowls or plates full of delicious comfort food. And nothing says comfort food like the convenience of a slow cooker! It’s a versatile kitchen tool that has been on the market for more than half a century, and revolutionized home cooking.
History of National Slow Cooking Month
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Of course, the idea of cooking something – especially a large piece of meat – over a slow simmer or in the oven for several hours until it’s juicy and tender has been happening for centuries. But, the invention of the slow cooker is a bit more modern, making its way into the world when it was invented in the 1930s by a man named Irving Naxon. However,the gadget didn’t really make it to the public market until the 1950s.
Eventually, the patent for this slow cooker was sold to a company called Rival, who first gave it the brand name “The Beanery”. Within a few years the company wisely changed the name to something that many people often call it today – the Crock-Pot.
The slow cooker still took a little while to catch on, ultimately gaining a lot of ground in the 1970s, and the number of creative recipes that have been developed for this tool is almost endless. The huge advantage of a slow cooker is that it can be set on low to cook for a number of hours and left, often without the need to stir or even check on it at all. Working moms who were still expected to put a hot dinner on the table relied heavily on the slow cooker during this era.
One excellent advantage was also that all of that could be done with a lot less electricity usage than running an entire oven. Plus, in the summer months, many people like that a slow cooker doesn’t heat up the kitchen like older ovens used to.
Get Creative with Slow Cooking Recipes
Honestly, there are a number of standard recipes that often make it to the forefront of people’s minds when considering slow cooking. But there are some folks who have gone way out on a creative limb to come up with unique and special slow cooker recipes for all sorts of items that might be a surprise. In honor of National Slow Cooking Month, consider celebrating by making a little online search and trying out recipes for some slow cooker dishes.
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Why take steps to improve soil organic matter?
As fall brings cooler temperatures, parts of North Dakota are experiencing low soil moisture, affecting both plants and soil microbes. Lower temperatures and moisture levels slow soil microbial activity and decrease microbial populations. Taking steps to build soil organic matter can help to maintain soil health and ensure sustainable farming practices, according to North Dakota State University Extension soil and soil health experts.
The role of microbes in soil health
Microbes play a vital role in decomposing crop residues, releasing nutrients that become available for plants. Although this process may be slow, it is key to releasing the nutrients tied up in the crop residue. As the nutrients are released through microbial activity, they become plant-available and may be taken up by crops or cover crops.
However, when crop residues have a high carbon-tonitrogen (C:N) ratio, microbes may temporarily tie up nitrogen, a process known as nitrogen immobilization. The ideal microbial diet has a C:N ratio of 24:1 (24 parts carbon for every one part nitrogen).
“Soil microbes that decompose high C:N ratio residues, such as corn stalks, will tie up more nitrogen from the soil than crops with more balanced ratios, such as legume cover crops,” says Brady Goettl, NDSU Extension soil science specialist.
C:N ratios for common crops are 57:1 for corn, 80:1 for wheat, 37:1 for cereal rye and 25:1 for soybeans.
Practices that build soil organic matter
“Building soil organic matter and improving soil health is a long-term investment and requires consistent practices like having well-timed and purposeful tillage, planting cover crops and implementing crop rotation and diversity,” says Carlos Pires, Extension soil health specialist.
Tillage accelerates the breakdown of organic residues, potentially releasing carbon back into the atmosphere rather than retaining it in the soil. Avoiding soil tillage helps sequester soil organic matter in the soil, maintaining its health benefits.
Planting cover crops can provide plant material for microbes and prevent nutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from being leached or eroded by wind or water. Cover crops also increase organic residues, which become active soil organic matter. This active portion of soil organic matter is crucial for water movement and holding capacity.
Employing a strategy for crop rotation and diversity helps to ensure a balanced C:N ratio in residues, promoting efficient decomposition and preventing long-term nitrogen immobilization
“Investing in soil organic matter also contributes to better resilience against flooding, erosion and drought, ensuring that soils remain productive for future generations,” says Chandler Gruener, Extension soil health specialist. “Ultimately, while the benefits of building organic matter may not be immediately visible, they create a foundation for sustainable farming and ecosystem health in the long run.”
Benefits of soil organic matter
Soil organic matter offers numerous benefits, including the following:
Chemical: Enhancing nutrient retention and availability, increasing cation exchange capacity, and stabilizing soil pH.
Physical: Improving soil structure, water infiltration and water-holding capacity; reducing compaction and surface crusting.
Biological: Providing food for soil organisms, enhancing microbial diversity and accelerating nutrient cycling.
Types of soil organic matter
Soil organic matter can be classified based on the following decomposition levels:
Active: Freshly dead organic residue which microbes are actively consuming. Makes up 5-10% of the total soil organic matter and forms within months to years. Most influenced by land management practices.
Slow: Comprises 20-40% of total soil organic matter and takes years to decades to form.
Stable: The greatest portion of total soil organic matter, 60-70%. Results from the decomposition of active and slow soil organic matter, creating the dark topsoil rich in organic matter.
To learn more about soil organic matter and which strategies might work for your system, visit https://www.ndsu.edu/ agriculture/extension/publications/soil-organic-matter-does-
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How digital is agriculture in Nebraska?
By Guillermo Balboa - Nutrient Management Specialist,
Precision Agriculture Engineer,
Cesario Pinto - Ph.D. Precision
Joe Luck - Extension
Pablo Paccioretti - Post doctoral associate, Jose
Ag Team , Laila Puntel - Extension Soil Fertility and Precision Ag Specialist and enhance the agricultural sector (Puntel et al., 2023, Balboa et al., 2023).
Digital Agriculture (DA) can be defined as the use of new technologies, combining multiple data sources and advanced analytical methods integrating systems that allows farmers and stakeholders of the agricultural value chain to improve food production system.
DA includes the use of sensors, drones, satellite imagery, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), precision agriculture, and artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize farming operations, increase yields, improve resource management and enable data-driven decision-making. DA offers numerous benefits that can revolutionize farming practices
The Digital Farming Lab, led by Dr. Guillermo Balboa, conducted a statewide survey to assess the status of DA in Nebraska. This is the first of a 10-article CropWatch series that will highlight the findings of this survey. Paper and digital surveys were distributed among 2,500 farmers in Nebraska. To ensure statewide representation, farmers’ samples were drawn from counties in proportion to the number of farms in each county. The response rate was 13%.
word.
The 10 facts about DA flyer (Figure 1) shows that five out of 10 farmers do not have a clear definition of DA, and 20% never hear about it. This poses a challenge to increasing our research and extension efforts to continue building Nebraska Digital Agriculture. The top 10 words used to define DA (Figure 2) were computer (48), GPS (37), precision (23), technology (21), variable rate (21), data (20), phone (16), expensive (13), internet (13), auto steer (12). The top five DA technologies adopted in Nebraska are: phone applications, GPS, soil grid sampling, autosteer and yield maps. In contrast, the five DA technologies with
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The first recorded recipe for a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich was in 1901. It was written by Julia Davis Chandler and published in the Boston Cooking School Magazine.
less adoption are: robotics, LoRa Network, blockchain, virtual fencing and automatic feeding.
Only 28% of Nebraska farmers who used DA technologies measured their benefits. Reduction of inputs and increase in profits were the top two benefits identified by Nebraska farmers. An increase in production quality and better commodity input prices were the categories with fewer responses. The top three barriers for adoption are lack of information about DA value, lack of qualified labor to manage DA and lack of time. Technology cost was positioned number six in the list. CONTINUED ON PAGE C5
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The yowie, or doolagahl, which means “great hairy man,” is Australia’s answer to Bigfoot. Sightings date back to the late 1880s describe an eight-foot-tall animal with a foul odor.
Figure 1. Flyer with 10 facts about Nebraska Digital Agriculture. Download the printable version and help us spread the
How digital is agriculture in Nebraska?
Figure 2. Word cloud generated with farmers’ responses to define digital agriculture. The larger the word, the more times it was mentioned among responses.
In the next digital agriculture CropWatch article series, we will be sharing more results of this survey to characterize the status of digital agriculture in Nebraska. This research was conducted with the
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McDonald’s sells 2.5 billion hamburgers every year.
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Surprisingly, only a few species of piranha are meateaters; many eat fruit and other plants that fall into the river, but those meateaters can do exactly what you think they can. In the 19th century, for example, Teddy Rosevelt wrote about his adventures along the Amazon. He claimed to have seen piranhas quickly make a skelton of a man who had fallen off his horse and into the river.
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In 1960 the Oakland Tribune held a name-the-team contest, and the winner was....The Señors. It’s likely that the contest was fixed, as a joke - the team’s co-owner, real estate developer and local celebrity Chet Soda, called everyone he met “señor.” About a week after the name was announced, owners went with the third-place vote getter: the Raiders.
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The US has elected two different peanut farmers to represent them as the President of the United States of America. These include Thomas Jefferson of Virginia (who was president between 1801 and 1809) and Jimmy Carter of Georgia (who was president between 1977 and 1981). However, since peanut butter didn’t yet exist when Jefferson was president, the peanuts grown on his farms were probably not used to make this delicious treat.
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English is funny: I want to have my cake and eat it too. Shouldn’t this timeworn cliché be I want to eat my cake and have it too? Isn’t the logical sequence that one hopes to eat the cake and then still possess it?
support of the Precision Nitrogen Conservation Innovation Grant (CIG – USDA NR203A750013G014). The survey was run in cooperation with the UNL Bureau of Sociological Research.
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America’s first DJ: Dr. Elman Myers, in 1911.
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Beefmaster Cattle
Excellent for new farmers, Beefmaster cattle are in wide use in several countries, and has been proven to produce quality cuts, exceptional milk, and a gorgeous hide. They are approximately 50% Brahman, 25% Hereford and 25% Shorthorn.
Beefmaster Cattle are a dual-purpose American composite breed that was specifically bred to be a high performer and has been
Written by Christina Pichler, cowcaretaker.com
given the moniker “The Profit Breed”.
In 1908, Ed Lasater, a cattleman, began a composite program in South Texas to produce a dual-purpose cattle breed that was suited for commercial use as both a meat and milking breed. Profitability was the cornerstone of what he set out to achieve.
Yet, it ultimately was his son Tom Lasater who refined the Beefmaster breed and is credited with its creation.
Tom listed out six essential traits that he believed are required in order for beef production to be profitable for ranchers:
Weight
Conformation
Hardiness
Disposition
Fertility
Milk production
His Beefmaster cattle met the requirements for all six.
It is believed that three main types of cattle were combined to create Beefmaster cattle, including Brahman cattle, Hereford cattle, and Shorthorn cattle. Other breeds were introduced briefly at different times including Gir and Nelore in the early days of the program, and Guzerat, which Lasater added in 1952.
While the exact percentages aren’t known, most people believe that the Beefmaster breed gets roughly half of its genetics from Brahman cattle, and the remaining 50% is split evenly between Hereford and Shorthorn cattle.
Using the best examples of each breed guarantees heterosis when crossbred, which can be seen in other composite breeds such as the Brangus (half Angus and half Brahman) which is well known for highly vigorous calves.
Beefmaster cattle were recognized as a breed by the USDA in 1954. They have gone on to be one of the most widely used American cattle in the United States, and have been exported to South Africa, Brazil, and other countries.
Four different breed associations exist for Beefmaster Cattle:
Beefmaster Breeders United (BBU)
Western States Beefmaster Breeders Association
The Beefmaster Cowman
National Cattleman’s Beef Association
Beefmaster cattle are a well-muscled, polled breed with excellent conformation. They have a rich reddish-brown colored coat that is usually solid in color but may have light or white mottling on their faces. They are known for thick necks and legs, and tight dewlap
An average calf weighs 77 lbs and a mature cow weigh 1760 lbs. A mature bull weighs in at 2600 lbs.
Beefmaster are ready to breed at 13 to 15 months, with a gestation period of 279 to 287 days.
Beefmaster are ready to slaughter at about 12 to 18 months with a carcass weight of 632 lbs.
The expected lifespan of Beefmaster cattle is 11 years.
They are highly profitable as beef cattle and also in milk production. The hides are excellent leather goods.
Some of their undesirable traits include lack of color uniformity and pendulous sheaths.
Beefmaster adaptable to both cold and hot climates.
Beefmaster cattle are a true American dual-purpose breed that were bred for qualities of temperament and productive value rather than color or size.
One of the most well-known beef breeds in America, Beefmaster cattle are known for high-quality carcass traits with lean meat that is full of flavor and marbling.
Beefmaster hot carcass weight averages 632 lbs and has a ribeye area of 11.51 square inches. The Warner-Bratzler Shear Force average for the Beefmaster breed is 7.47. Roughly 72% of Beefmaster carcasses grade as Prime or Choice. Yield Grades of 1 or 2 are given on approximately half of all cuts.
Beef is the number one use for Beefmaster cattle, though milk productivity is the second most important trait of all six essentials according to Tom Lasater.
Beefmaster cows produce 1 to 1 and a half gallons of milk per day. This milk is suited for drinking, cheesemaking, and use in other dairy products, yet it is most often used strictly for growing calves quickly.
Cows produce a heavy calf each year and are able to fully support growth and development through the rich milk she provides.
Beefmaster is a great breed for novice farmers for ease of management and the cows make excellent mothers. A reasonable birth weight allows for easy calving.
Beefmaster calves have a higher weaning weight than other beef breeds at an average of 520 lbs.
They have no known health issues and have high disease and insect resistance. Beefmaster cattle rarely get pink-eye. They have a docile temperament that is easy to handle.
Beefmaster can handle a wide range of climates and environments but do exceptionally well in hot climates due to bos indicus blood.
Beefmaster cattle have desirable skin that is widely used in the leather industry.
Beefmaster bulls used in crossbreeding add growth and efficiency throughout production increasing profitability. Calves are high-performing, vigorous, and gain weight readily.
Steers put on weight easily, with the average yearling weight being 866 lbs.
DBL Sales and Service, LLC
Private, commercial and noncommercial pesticide applicators seeking first-time certification or recertification will have several options from which to choose in 2025. Whether you prefer to learn directly from local experts or from the comfort of your own home, Nebraska Extension has you covered. Who Needs a Pesticide Applicator License?
In Nebraska, you need a pesticide applicator license if you: Apply restricted-use pesticides (RUPs) for any purpose; Apply general-use pesticides commercially for turf/ornamental or structural pest control; or
Apply general-use pesticides for outdoor vector control on behalf of a state or local government agency.
Not sure if you need an applicator license? Try this online questionnaire (https:pested.unl.edu/training-and-certification/), or contact the Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) Office.
Not sure if your license expires in 2025? Look up your license status at httops://deq.ne.gov/zs/chemigation/main_ search_chemigation.php
Private Applicators
Private applicators who apply pesticides to their own property for agricultural purposes can certify for the first time or recertify by:
Attending a face-to-face private applicator training session hosted by their local extension educator;
Attending a Crop Production Clinic hosted by Nebraska Extension;
Completing the online private applicator training program (a Spanish-language version is also available); or Passing a private applicator exam.
Visit our private applicator training page for full details, scheduling and registration information. (https:pested.unl. edu/training-and-certification/private-applicator/)
A standard private applicator license does not cover applications of restricted-use fumigants. To add a fumigation endorsement to your private license, you must pass the corresponding commercial/noncommercial category exam (category 01A for soil fumigants, category 11 for structural
CONTINUED ON PAGE C12
View our FULL inventory at www.FrontlineAgSolutions.com
Now is the best time to upgrade your equipment. Don’t wait until you’re in the thick of the busy season to realize that your equipment isn’t going to get the job done! Call or stop in today
SELF PROPELLED SPREADERS & SPRAYERS
Several used John Deere and competitive self-propelled sprayers and applicators in stock! Variety of boom and widths available. Several units are ready to roll with turnkey GPS!
2023 John Deere 616R with 120-ft. steel, 20”, CVIII cab, Exact Apply, auto solution control, hi-flow pump, front fill, 5 sensor boom level, boom air purge, Ultimate visibility lights, eductor, Ultimate Comfort package, Cat 1 cab filtration, pressure recirc and reclaim, fence row nozzles, 420 skinny tires. Stock #91133 $570,000 (14)
2023 John Deere 616R with 132-ft. carbon fiber, 20”, CVIII cab, Exact Apply, premium radio, auto solution control, hiflow pump, 5 sensor boom level, boom air purge, ultimate visibility lights, eductor, ultimate comfort package, Cat I cab filtration, fence row nozzles, skinny tires. Includes 4.0 AT activation, 4600 armrest display, section control, SF6000. Stock #89331 $555,000 (12)
2021 John Deere 616R with 132-ft. carbon fiber, 20”, CVIII cab, Exact Apply, premium radio, AutoSolution control, hiflow pump, 5 sensor boom level, boom air purge, ultimate vis lights, eductor, Ultimate Comfort package, Cat I cab filtration, fence row nozzles, skinny tires. Includes 4.0 AT activation, 4600 armrest display, section control, SF6000. Stock #89240
$489,900 (1)
2024 John Deere 412R with 120-ft. steel boom with Exact Apply, receiver, 4600 monitor, 1200 gallon SS tank, Ulitmate comfort with Active Seat, VF380/90R46 tires, high flow solution pump, SS eductor, 20” nozzles, air purge, fenders. Stock #90973
$530,000 (14)
2022 John Deere 412R 120-ft. 20”, CVIII cab, premium radio, high flow solution pump, AutoSolution control, no Exact Apply, eductor, boom level, boom air purge, ultimate visibility lights, fence row nozzles, 380/90R46, Includes 4600 with AT activation, SF6000. Stock #89332
$433,000 (15)
2020 John Deere R4045 with premium cab, 380/105R50 tires, eductor, wheel slip control, air purge, LED field lighting package, fence row RH and LH nozzles, 120-ft. boom with 20” spacing, stainless steel tank, hydraulic tread adjust, guidance receiver and display, tractor control, Exact Apply, boom breakaway. Stock #92126 $347,500
2018 John Deere R4045 with 132-ft. carbon fiber, 20” CVIII cab, premium radio, AutoSolution control, Exact Apply, front fill, 5 sensor boom level, boom air purge, LED lights, eductor, leather, fence row nozzles, 800 float tires (75%) and VF480/80R50s (75%) includes 4600 with Command Center premium activation, SF6000. Stock #86870 $338,000 (1)
2011 Versatile
2017 John Deere R4045 with 120-ft. steel boom, 20” soacing, No Exact Apply, 5 tip nozzle body, manual solution control, large eductor, 5 sensor BoomTrac, premium cab/radio, wheel slip, LED lights, L/R end nozzles radar, boom air purge, 480/80R50 tires with fenders, 2630 display with AutoTrac and section control and receiver. Stock #91898 $195,000 (14)
2017 John Deere 4038 with 120-ft. boom, 20” spacing, 1000 gallon tank,5 sensor BH, boom air purge, VF380/90R46 tires, high flow pump with dual flow meter, premium cab/radio, R/L end nozzles, LED lights, 6000 receiver, 2630 display with AutoTrac and section control and receiver. Stock #91139 $259,500 (14)
2012 John Deere 4940 with 120-ft. boom, 15” spacing, 380/105R50 tires, Hi-Flo solution pump, stainless steel plumbing, BoomTrac Pro 5 leveling, SF3000 receiver, AutoTrac and section control activations. Stock #88812......$118,000 (1)
2014 Case IH Patriot 3340 120-ft. boom, 20” spacing, 1000 gallon SS tank, Aim Command Pro, boom height, section control, 650/65R38 Viper 4 control, Nav II controller, section command. Stock #89336 $147,500 (2)
#91133
#91898
4WD, ROW CROP AND UTILITY TRACTORS
2023 John Deere 9RX640 with 30” track, 6 SCVs, dual hydraulic pump, Active Command steering, Intelligent Power Management, Ultimate cab, 1000 PTO, 20 front weights. Stock #91048
2021 John Deere 9620RX with 760 mm/30” track, narrow spacing, PTO, display, large hydraulic pump, Performance Package, E18 transmission, 18F/6 R speeds with efficiency manager, 4600 command center with extended monitor, StarFire 6000 receiver, SF1 command center premium activation, 3.04600 processor Premium Command View III cab with cab suspension, premium radio package, Cummins X15 14.9L (912 cu. in.) 6 cylinder tier 4/Stage V compliant diesel engine. Stock #91049
$530,000 (12)
2018 John Deere 9520RX with cab, 18/6 PowerShift, 30” DuraBuilt 6500 (with poly mid rollers), 5 SCVs, no 3-point, 1000 PTO, premium radio, premium CVIII cab with suspension, hi-flo hydraulics, Cat 5 drawbar, electric mirrors, premium lighting, 4600 command center with activation, no SF6000. Stock #89083
$373,000 (12)
2014 John Deere 9560R with premium hiflow, 18 speed PowerShift, 18 forward/6 rear speeds with Efficiency Manager, premium Command View II cab, premium radio package with XM radio, hi-flow hydraulic system, 295 lpm (78 gpm), five deluxe electro-hydraulic rear remote selective control valves, Cat 5 drawbar (2 positions) with heavy duty drawbar support, 520/85R46 triples, weights. Stock #91816
2022 John Deere 7R 290 Signature Edition, IVT, AT ready less receiver, Ultimate Comfort cab with air seat and cab suspension, 6 SCVs, 1000 PTO, 3 point, dual 520/85R46 rear and single 480/70R34 front tires, front fenders, Triple Link front suspension, cold weather package, 24 front weights, rear weights. Stock #91693 $328,000 (4)
$237,500 (12)
2023 John Deere 8R310 with 40K IVT with Command Pro, Ultimate cab, Active Seat II, Signature edition, Ultimate visibility, 4600 with Automation 4.0 activation, 6000 receiver, 84 GPM hydraulics with 6 remotes, Intelligent power management (IPM), 13/4” 1000 PTO, ILS suspension, 380/90R54 R1 rear duals (rear fender extensions), 380/80R38 R1W front duals (pivoting front fenders), 22 front weights, 1600# rear inner dual weight, 1/2” power beyond. Stock #90468 $403,000 (2)
2023 John Deere 6R 215 with IVT (40K), 680R MSL, with grapple, Triple Link suspension (TLS), 620/70R42 rear singles (1800 lbs. rear weights), 480/70R30 single front, 540E/1000/1000E PTO, Ulitmate cab with suspension, premium Panorama lights (LED), 4600 display with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, heated rear window, Panorama glass roof, rear quick coupler, Cold Start II, fuel heating. Stock #91655
$282,500 (14)
2023 John Deere 6R 230 with Command Pro (40K), front suspension, AutoTrac ready, 4600 display with AutoTrac Activation, no receiver, Ultimate cab, heated rear window, Ultimate seat, cab suspension, Panorama glass roof with premium lights, 5 rear E-SCVs, 540E/1000/1000E PTO, loader ready, (no loader), Cold Start II, fuel heater, front weight bracket with 18 weights, 380/90R50 duals, (1200 lbs. weights), 380/85R34 front singles with turntable fenders. Stock #88845 $278,000 (14)
#91683
2023 John Deere 6155M with 20 forward/20 reverse PowrQuad+, triple link suspension, 114 l/min hydraulic pump, 3 SCVs, PTO, 480/80R42 rear wheels, 420/85R28 front wheels, front fenders, standard seat, premium radio package, premium LED lights, MCS Plus, cold start package, 640R loader with bucket and grapple. Stock #91683 $213,500 (1) 2018 John Deere 6155R with 640R loader, bucket, grapple, premium cab, 20 speed AutoQuad transmission, MFWD with TLS, 3 electric SCVs, 540/1000 PTO, 3-point, 520/85R38 rear tires, AutoTrac ready, rear weights, fenders. Stock #92195 $140,000 (11)
2022 John Deere 8RT370 track tractor with 16-ft. track spacing with 16.5” 6500 series belts, poly mid rollers, 6000 receiver with RTK activation (no radio), 4600 display with automation 3.0, Signature edition, Ultimate cab, Ultimate lighting, 40K IVT with RHR, IPM, 6 remotes with high flow pump, 22 front weights, 12 side mount weights, radar, 1/2” PowerBeyond, 20,000 lb. 3-point hitch, Cat 4 swinging drawbar. Stock #87612
2023 John Deere 6R 165 with 640R grapple, 50K IVT transmission, front suspension (TLS), AutoTrac ready, 4600 with AutoTrac activation, Ultimate cab with cab suspension, Panorama glass roof, 3 E-SCVs with hydraulic IPM, 540/1000/1000E, 480/80R42 rear extensions and 1800 lb. rear weight, 420/85R28 front with turnable extensions, Cold Start II. Stock #92207
$408,000 (15)
$250,000 (14)
DRILLS & SEEDERS
2023 John Deere 6R 145 with JD 640R with grapple, 20/20 AutoQuad transmission, front suspension (TLS), AutoTrac ready, 4200 display with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, 3 E-SCV, 540/1000/1000E PTO, standard radio, cab suspension, Panorama roof and lights, 480/80R46 duals with fender extensions and 1800 lb. weights, 420/85R32 fronts with turnable extensions, Cold Start II, fuel heating. Stock #92223 $212,500 (14)
Fall seeding is upon us. See our lineup of good used seeders to get that crop seeded quickly.
2012 John Deere 1890 60-ft. no till drill, 10” spacing, single shoot air package for tow between cart, All Run Blockage system for seed, 430 bushel cart, Uniforce down pressure system. Stock #86592
$168,000 (12)
2015 John Deere 1890 60-ft. no-till drill, 7.5” spacing, SS, All Run Blockage, solid gauge wheel, 430 bushel tow behind cart, 3 tank, 8 run, hydraulic drive (section command), 10” fill auger. Stock #90868
2010 John Deere 1835 50-ft. drill with 12.5” spacing, 550# trips, 3” rubber press wheels, DBL shoot, drill with midrow banders, rock guards and scrapers, dual wing wheels, primary blockage on seed, no blockage on fertilizer, 430 bushel tow between cart, double shoot, 6 runs, 10” auger, 710/70R38, SN A01910T735486. Stock #89162 $59,000 (14)
2010 John Deere 1830 60-ft. hoe drill, 10” spacing, single shoot, steel packers, mechanical depth control, primary blockage, 1910 tow behind air cart.S/N 1A81910HVAG740107. Stock #90380 $77,500 (2)
2023 John Deere N560 no till drill, 60ft. 10” spacing, double shoot, All Run Blockage, cast serrated closing wheels, spoked narrow gauge wheels, C850 tow behind cart. Stock #88700
$178,000 (12)
$725,000 (1)
2022 John Deere N560 no till drill, 60-ft., 7.5” spacing, Pro Series openers, Truset down pressure, narrow spoked gauge wheels, crumbler closing wheels, JD All Run Blockage, 430 tow between cart with 12” conveyor (KSI flip over hopper), no section control. Stock #90471
$383,000 (4)
2006 John Deere 1890 36-ft. drill with 7.5” spacing, single shoot, All Run Blockage, solid gauge wheels, 270 bushel tow between cart, 8” fill auger. Stock #85261
$140,000 (11)
Case IH ATX5010 50-ft., 10” spacing, SS, tire packers, 3” spread tips, no blockage, 2 tanks - 230 bushels. Has new hoses and points. Stock #85109.....$32,500 (1)
2002 New Holland SD440 45-ft. 10:” spacing hoe drill, single shoot, 3” spread tip, capped steel press wheels, no blockage, has Flexi-Coil 3450 cart, 450 bushels, 3 tank cart, auger cart SNG50-108422-02. Stock #91713
2021 John Deere 542C 42-ft. air drill, 7.5” spacing, single shoot, Pro Series spoked gauge wheels, All Run Blockage, 340/60R15 single wing tires, tow behind 1910 cart, SN1A81910HCNF795479. Stock #87427
$258,000 (4)
#91048
#87612
#88700
#88790
#90380
2015 John Deere 1890 60-ft. with 10” spacing, 90 Series openers, mix of spoked and unspoked gauge wheels, mix of smooth and serrated closing wheels, All Run Blockage (JD), 430 tow between cart with Intelligent Ag section control, 12” conveyor with standard hopper. Stock #88790 $198,000 (14)
Johnsen Trailer Sales, Inc.
2023 Wilson lead and pup, 41x102x78 lead, 21x102x78 pup, both air ride, disc brakes, electric tarp on the lead.
2021 Wilson lead and pup, gun metal gray, lead trailer is 42x96x78 and pup is 20x96x78. Both trailers have Ag hoppers, electric traps and tarps.
2021 Wilson 50x96x72 triple axle, ag hoppers, electric tarp, rear axle lift.
2020 Wilson 48x102x72 triple axle, ag hoppers, hydro traps, eletric tarp, rear axle lift.
2019 Wilson Patriot 42x102x72 tandem air ride, 48” conveyor 56 degree slopes, top hinge door, electric tarp. $75,000
Pesticide applicator certification training
CONTINUED FROM PAGE C10 and rodent-burrow fumigants). To renew a fumigation endorsement on your private license, you can attend a commercial/noncommercial recertification session (category 11 only), complete an extra module in the online training (category 11 only), or retake your exam (category 01A or 11). There is no additional training fee. Please contact the PSEP Office for more information.
You cannot make applications of RUPs from aircraft or drones with a private applicator license. To perform these applications, you must acquire a commercial or noncommercial applicator license with a category 12 endorsement (see below).
Commercial and Noncommercial Applicators
Those seeking first-time certification as a commercial or noncommercial applicator must pass at least two exams: one covering general information that applies to all applicators (“General Standards”), and one covering the specific category of pest control in which they plan to work. Examtaking opportunities are numerous.
We strongly encourage you to study before attempting your exams. You can purchase study manuals through the UNL Marketplace. (https://marketplace.unl.edu/pested/ commerical--noncommercial-study-materials)
2018 Wilson Patriot 44x102x72 tandem air ride, 48” conveyor 56 degree slopes, top hinge door, electric tarp.
28-ft., tri axle air ride, stainless
$65,000
2020 Wilson 41x96x72 tandem air ride, ag hoppers, stainless rear end.
2024 Manac beavertail, 53x102, all steel, wood floor. Two ramps and 12 winches.
2009 Merritt quad axle livestock trailer.
2008 Side Dump Industries side dump, triple axle, air ride.
2017 Wilson livestock trailer, quad axle, 53-ft., 19-ft. rear, 11-6” nose, 22-6” belly, crank up nose deck. View our website for more photos and information.
2000 Utility, 38-ft. van with 2 side doors, (4) 1600 gallon tanks and a Honda pump inside.
Face-to-face initial training sessions serve as reviews of the study manuals and include exam-taking opportunities. If you choose to attend one of these sessions, be sure to select one that offers the categories you need. Pre-registration is highly encouraged.
Walk-in, exam-only sessions will also be scheduled. A third option for taking applicator exams is through Pearson VUE computerized testing service, which charges $55 per exam.
Those seeking to recertify as a commercial or noncommercial applicator may do so by:
Attending a face-to-face recertification training session hosted by Nebraska Extension;
Completing the online commercial/noncommercial recertification program;
Attending a different extension- or industry-sponsored conference that offers recertification credit; or
Retaking and passing their applicator exams.
Be sure to select a recertification option that offers the categories you need. Categories 01A, 02, 03, 05S, 06, 12, REG, and D/R are not available at the face-to-face recertification sessions nor in the online program. If you need to recertify in a category for which no recertification opportunities are available, you will need to retake and pass the category’s exam AND either:
Attend the General Standards (morning) portion of a recertification session;
Complete the General Standards portion of the online training program; or
Retake and pass the General Standards (category 00) exam.
Visit our commercial/noncommercial applicator training page for full details, schedules, and preregistration links. Contact the PSEP Office for more information.
Interested in using drones for pesticide applications? Learn how from Nebraska Extension. (https://cropwatch. unl.edu/2024/drones-and-nebraska-pesticide-act) What Happens After My Training and/or Exams?
After completing the certification or recertification process, the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA) will mail private and commercial applicators a postcard requesting payment of their licensing fee. The fee is $25 for private applicators and $90 for commercial applicators. Once you have paid the fee (online or by mail), the NDA will mail your license.
Noncommercial applicators do not pay a licensing fee. Once you have completed the (re)certification process, the NDA will mail your license.
Your license is valid for three years and must be renewed prior to its expiration date.
As there are many exams to grade during the early part of the year, please allow the NDA up to three weeks to process your exam results.
#####
Sheila Ranae Crabtree hated her first name; she thought it was ugly. She went by her middle name as a teenager, but didn’t think that one fit her personality, either. So, with the blessing of her husband and children, the Ohio woman had her name legally changed to Sexy Crabtree.
2016 Wilson livestock 53x102, nose 11-ft., rear 14-ft., belly
steel front.
2021 Wilson 29-ft. lead trailer, 25-ft. 6” pup with air operated expandable draw bar. Disc brakes on the set!
2018 Wilson lead and pup, 38x96x78 lead trailer and 21x96x78 pup trailer. Great condition.
2018 Wilson 50x96x72 tri axle with rear axle lift electric tarp, reverse front trap, stainless steel front and rear. Very clean trailer!!!
TRACTORS
2023
2023 John Deere 8R 340 Signature Edition, IVT with RHR, ILS, full GPS, 6 SCVs, 480/80R50 rear tires with duals, 420/85R34 front tires with duals, 675 hours. 6 year/4000 hour extended PowrGard Warranty. Stock #90253
$422,500
2023 John Deere 8R 340 Signature Edition, IVT with RHR, ILS, full GPS, 6 SCVs, 380/90R54 rear tires with duals, 380/80R38 front tires with duals, 270 hours. 6 year/4000 hour extended PowrGard Warranty. Stock #90254
$442,500
2022 John Deere 8R 340 IVT with RHR, ILS, 6 SCVs, 480/80R50 dual rears, 480/70R34 front duals, full GPS, 439 hours. Extended warranty til 8-2028 Stock #90437
$402,500
2023 John Deere 8R 310 MFWD, IVT, air seat, cab suspension, right hand reverser, 60 gallon per minute hydraulic pump, 6 SCVs, 480/80R 50 rear duals, 420/85R 34 front duals, 22 front weights, 1500 lb. rear weights, 590 hours. PowrQuad Warranty till 3-2029 or 4000 hours. Stock #89857.
$417,500
2022 John Deere 8R 310 IVT with RHR, ILS, full GPS, 6 SCVs, 480/80R50 rear tires with duals, 420/85R34 front tire with duals, 897 hours. 6 year/4000 hour extended PowrGard Warranty. Stock #90255.
$377,500
2021 John Deere 8R 230 Signature Edition, IVT with RHR, ILS, 6 SCVs, 380/90R54 duals, 320/80R42 front singles, full GPS, 1023 hours. Extended warranty till 7-2027. Stock #90440...$290,000
2022 John Deere 7R 290 cab tractor, MFWD, IVT transmission, Command Pro, air seat & cab suspension, triple link suspension, front & rear fenders, Ultimate Visibility package. PowrGard Warranty good till 10-23-2029 or 5000 hours. Which ever comes first. Stock #91693, 353 hours.
$345,000
2017 John Deere 8245R IVT with RHR, ILS, 6 SCVs, 480/80R50 dual rears, 420/85R34 front dual, full GPS, 3200 hours. Stock #90799........
$210,000
2012 John Deere 8235R IVT with RHR, ILS, 6 SCVs, 480/80R50 dual rears, 420/85R34 front singles, full GPS, 4500 hours. Stock #90801.
$172,500
2023 John Deere 6155M cab tractor with 640R loader/grapple, 20 PowrQuad with left hand reverser, AutoTrac ready, less receiver, 3 SCVs, MFWD, beacon and work lights, triple link suspension. Factory Warranty good till August 2025 or 2000 hours. PowrGard Warranty good till August 2029 or 4000 hours. 2- 450# weights each side & ballast, 535 hours. Stock #91151. $187,500
2017 John Deere L340 3x4 baler, tandem axle, large 1000 PTO, LED lights, auto grease bank. 23,800 bales. Stock #90176 $65,000
2019 New Holland L330 3x3 baler, single axle, hydraulic pickup, auto grease bank, bale chute, 11,270 bales. Stock #91260. $80,000
2017 New Holland L340 3x4 baler, tandem axle, moisture sensor, Maxi sweep pickup with gauge wheels, 1000 PTO, bale chute, 25,185 bales. Stock #91262. $59,000
2022 John Deere 5090E cab, MFWD, 24/12 transmission with left hand reverser, loader ready, air seat, 3 rear SCVs, approximately 700 hours. Stock #88003. PowerGard Warranty till 10-2028 or 3500 hours
Woods SB74C snowblower with manual discharge $4949
$120,000
2015 New Holland T7.210 T4A MFD, 165 hp, Powershift, 3 SCVs, 2380 hours. Stock #91852.
Woods DHS 80C 80” disc. Stock #84418 $3520
Woods BO72RC 72” rotary cutter $4290
Woods TK72 72” finish mower. Stock #84419 $4600
$112,500
2009 John Deere 8330 cab tractor, MFWD, IVT with right hand reverser, 3 SCVs, deluxe cab with Instructional seat, 480/80/46 rear duals, front & rear weights, 7384 hours. Stock #90320.
2005 John Deere 6715 cab, MFWD, 16 speed PowrQuad, left hand reverser, 3 SCVs, front tires 320/90/42, rear tires 320/90/54, 3789 hours. Stock #87936.
Frontier AF11E 72” front blade with John Deere 300/400/500 mounts, never used. $2800
Frontier AP12F 42” pallet forks with John Deere 300/400/500 mounts, never used. $1000
$65,000
2022 John Deere 4066R cab tractor with 440 R loader, air seat, 2 rear selective control valves, Beacon light and rear work lights. 8 hours.
2019 John Deere 4066R tractor, open station, John Deere 485A backhoe with mechanical thumb, pallet forks and 89” Frontier rear blade. Stock #91127.
$69,000
2023 John Deere 333G skidsteer, cab, heat & A/C, 2 speed with high flow, air ride seat, rear view camera, 3 sets of counter weights, Anti Vibration under carriage, 84” construction bucket, 260 hours. Stock #90879.
ROUND BALERS
$102,000
2023 John Deere 560M round baler, 1000 PTO, net wrap, MegaWide pickup, hydraulic pickup, flotation tires, grease bank, 5866 bales. Stock #91146
$59,500
2022 John Deere 560M round baler, 1000 PTO, net wrap, MegaWide pickup, hydraulic pickup, flotation tires, 8322 bales. Stock #88053.
$52,000
2018 John Deere 560M round baler with pre cutter, 1000 PTO, 17,063 bales. Stock #81836.
$40,000
2016 John Deere 569 round baler, 1000 PTO, net wrap & twine, Mega Wide pickup, hydraulic pickup, flotation tires, approximately 38,000 bales. Stock #91914.
According to naturalist and author John Muir, between every two pines is the doorway to a new world. In Noxon, Montana, at a base camp for wildlife biologists nestled deep in the pines, camera traps and other measuring instruments are capturing forensic evidence of what is happening to the state’s elk population.
A new management plan released by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks last year has accelerated matters concerning the antlered ungulate, and an investigative team consisting of University of Montana wildlife biology professors and students is helping FWP spearhead research to understand the many complex factors affecting the species.
The town of Noxon is a two-and-a-halfhour drive northwest from Missoula, on the border of Idaho’s panhandle at the heart of Montana’s Hunting District 121. Over the past decade, the local community raised concerns about reduced elk populations with local wildlife managers.
“The public in Montana is passionate about wildlife, with elk being particularly important to the hunting public,” said Neil Anderson, an FWP regional wildlife manager. “When there are changes – especially when those changes aren’t viewed as being positive – the public looks for actions to improve the situation.”
Researchers are considering the many ecological factors that impact the species, including predator roles, habitat changes,
population distribution and human modifications to the landscape.
Collectively, efforts aim to provide answers to foundational questions: Where are elk on the landscape, and what are the main drivers of their population dynamics? Although outcomes are still a work in progress, these scientists are diligently working to help ensure a balanced and sustainable future for Montana’s elk and the communities that depend on them.
The Fabric of the Landscape
Before this project began, there was limited data on elk mortality rates and population distribution in HD 121.
“There were many thoughts as to why elk numbers and distribution had changed, but no data to determine what was really happening,” Anderson said.
Previously, aerial counts were used in the area, but this method can only obtain an estimated minimum population abundance and cow-calf ratios. Noxon, like most of northwest Montana, also has a unique ecosystem due to its dense forested areas and humid climate, making this method potentially inaccurate due to the difficulty of sighting and counting elk.
Data from other studies in western Montana and even nearby areas in Idaho also have been used to make inferences for what’s happening in Noxon, said Chad Bishop, director of UM’s Wildlife Biology Program, who helps oversee the project. He
UM students Ava Window and Trevor Weeks work this summer to estimate and identify vegetation and forage in their Noxon study area. (UM photo by Ryan Brennecke)
Members of the Noxon elk project study team work with a calf. (UM photoby Ryan Brennecke)
Lux Surveyor Cab, Power Adjusting Mirrors, 120 ft boom, 7 section, 20” spacing, Case IH AFS Pro 700, Deluxe H.I.D./LED field lights, Accuboom section control, Autoboom Height Control 5 Sensors, Single beacon light, Trelleborg 710 Floaters
said this hasn’t provided a real snapshot of Noxon’s elk.
“The issues regarding wildlife can be really complex depending on what kinds of landscape you’re evaluating,” Bishop said. “This project is aimed at getting a holistic view of what’s going on with this specific population.”
The Noxon elk project is the largest research effort in recent times within the hunting district and includes the collaborative fieldwork of experts ranging from UM students to wildlife researchers and FWP staff. Project members spend weeks at a time in the Noxon area, staying at the study sites both in the winter and summer to tease apart the various factors that could influence elk.
“Having accurate information on wildlife populations forms the framework for discussions,” Anderson said. “Information from this study helps inform biologists and carries a lot of weight in determining what tools to use to achieve management goals.”
According to many of the students and FWP representatives, local community involvement is key to project success. Landowners have allowed camera traps to be set up on their property and worked one-on-one with the students and researchers.
“This is a major research project that will address important questions for elk management in an area where elk are especially important ecologically and culturally,” Bishop
said. “The research will simultaneously contribute to the professional development of students who will be the future stewards of Montana’s wildlife.”
In particular, he said, students learn the value of working alongside private landowners and management agency biologists as part of conducting rigorous research with an applied focus.
A Changing Habitat
Researchers on the project are leaving no leaf left unturned – literally or figuratively – as they investigate what environmental factors impact elk.
Trevor Weeks, a UM wildlife biology master’s student advised by Bishop, studies vegetation in HD 121 habitat. Elk are herbivores, so the quantity and quality of forage and landscape disturbance can be critical. His main task is to gather information that can help piece together an elk’s diet in this area.
“Environmental variability matters a lot with population dynamics,” Bishop said. “Oftentimes, the big-picture driver of a species’ decline is tied to a reduction in habitat quality.”
By understanding what elk eat and the nutritional value of their diet, Weeks’ work supports the project’s overarching goal of developing models that predict how elk use the landscape. In his meticulous fieldwork, he documents every plant species within CONTINUED ON PAGE C18
Their workplace is Montana: UM students Ava Window and Trevor weeks gather data in an expansive mountain landscape near Noxon. (UM photo by Ryan Brennecke)
UM student Ava Window measures a tree as part a major elk study in the Noxon area of northwest Montana. (UM photo by Ryan Brennecke)
the
2008 John Deere 310SJ 6245+/hours, enclosed cab with heat and air conditioning, cloth air ride seat, Power Shift transmission, 4x4, Extend-A-Hoe, switchable pilot controls, new rear tires, 24” backhoe bucket, diff lock, has been very well maintained, has been through the shop, recent service, excellent condition. Located in Spearfish, SD $52,500
Elk research by UM scientists, students
CONTINUED FROM PAGE C16
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a square meter frame, dries them out and weighs them. He then collects scat for a DNA metabarcoding analysis, cross-comparing the results to model what specific things elk are eating. This data also can help predict the amount of forage available in different areas of the study site.
Weeks has identified 45 unique diet items for elk in Noxon. This includes plants such as huckleberries, raspberries, roses, fireweed and clovers. With foundational knowledge on the values of elk nutrition, his research later can be used to inform population changes.
Weeks also studies impacts of forest disturbances on elk nutrition, such as timber harvesting or prescribed fires. By examining forage across sites that are disturbed versus undisturbed, he can categorize the major forest types and historical trends to get a glimpse into an elk’s nutritional intake within the larger ecosystem. Weeks emphasizes the need to understand elk nutrition as it can have significant long-term impacts on the population.
“Nutrition can impact a lot of things. Understanding their diet creates steppingstones to see what is impacting the population,” Weeks said. “We’re looking at this situation comprehensively – both top down and bottom up – meeting in the middle to figure out all the factors affecting elk.”
Population Dynamics
Karly Tellier, also a UM master’s student in wildlife biology, is working to obtain a more representative estimate of both elk and carnivore populations in the hunting district. As part of a wildlife modeling team, she helps deploy different types of field cameras, a technique championed by her adviser Paul Lukacs, UM senior associate
dean of research and graduate studies.
This part of the research uses over 100 camera traps, with 80 randomly and 40 semi-randomly placed near game trails, to gather a more accurate portrayal of predator-prey ratios. The study area covers about 2,500 square kilometers (about the size of Yosemite National Park) around Noxon on private and public land.
“Paul has revolutionized the use of field cameras to estimate abundance of species,” Bishop said. “He’s led that nationally and internationally. We have brought that technique in on this, and it is really helping to glean good data.”
The cameras also provide time-lapse images throughout the landscape every 10 minutes at random. By ensuring a constant data stream unaffected by motion sensors, the researchers can construct a clearer picture of elk movements and predator-prey interactions. Similar to an approach used in Idaho, the strategy allows for noninvasive monitoring of these populations under dense vegetation and tree canopies where traditional aerial surveys struggle to penetrate.
Finally, the use of both random and semi-random cameras aims to capture more accurate species density estimates. This is especially prevalent when trying to get a count of predators like wolves, which avoid cameras and have been one assumption as to why elk populations are decreasing.
“FWP wants to better understand through data how to improve the balance between prey, predator and private homeowners so that harmony can be achieved on the landscape,” Tellier said.
Tellier is helping to collect data around the time of elk births and during hunting
UM has partnered with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks for a major Montana elk study. Pictured are (left to right) student Trevor Weeks, UM Wildlife Biology Program Director Chad Bishop and student Ava Window. (UM photo by Ryan Brennecke)
Elk research by UM scientists, students
CONTINUED FROM PAGE C18
seasons to compare population numbers and distributions. This also helps understand elk migration patterns, particularly the shifts in abundance throughout the year. Through images and data modeling, this approach helps determine whether predators or elk behavior adaptations are contributing to the decline in bull elk harvests observed over the past decade.
Chris Hansen, a UM post-doctorate on the project, supports and assists with modeling. He works to make sense of existing FWP elk data, using it as a baseline for the current research. Hansen will take all the information currently being excavated in the field and piece it together in a model that helps project where elk are today, the drivers of their dynamics and their distribution in the landscape.
Elk Reproduction vs. Survival
UM Ph.D. candidate Andy Stewart and her adviser, Professor Joshua Millspaugh, have traced reproduction versus survival rates of Noxon elk through a variety of different data-capture methods. Stewart’s efforts are aimed at estimating population abundance and movements by using expandable satellite GPS collars administered to elk calves.
These collars serve multiple purposes. First, they provide precise survival data by sending mortality signals if the collar remains still for six hours, allowing researchers to quickly reach the site where an elk has died to gather accurate cause-specific mortality information. Additionally, the collars enable researchers to monitor surviving animals’ data – informing scientists about elk activities such as migration patterns, routes and landscape use.
Stewart also used transmitters placed in the vaginal canals of elk cows in the wintertime to confirm pregnancies. The transmitters communicate with the GPS collars when a birth is taking place. This data is sent to satellites and then back to the researchers so they can accurately track birth rates.
“Andy’s research ties everything together, looking at population and vital rates, which have the biggest impact on population growth,” Bishop said.
CONTINUED ON PAGE C20
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Son: “Which hand do you write with?”
Dad: Gosh, neither, I write with a pen!” #####
Why did the vampire attack Taylor Swift?
She had “Bad Blood” #####
You know, people say they pick their nose, but I was born with mine.
Elk research by UM scientists, students
Nicole Bealer, a recent graduate of the UM wildlife biology program now working for FWP, collaborates closely with Stewart. Bealer spent months developing
lytic tools to bolster collaring strategies. She also used coding to create algorithms that could more accurately predict calving locations, with the goal of detecting birth
events in real time.
When the transmitters tell researchers an elk has been born, they dispatch to the location and collar the calves to better inform survival rates after birth – making it so the researchers can not only track reproduction but the number of calves making it to adulthood as well.
“I’m hopeful that at the conclusion of this project all of the various people invested in it will be excited to learn what we have found,” Bealer said.
The ability to accurately track elk survival and mortality factors means wildlife managers are better informed about administering hunting licenses and adjusting season dates to help better support their populations. When there are higher numbers of elk, not only does the ecosystem thrive but the hunters who rely on the species do too.
Project funding was provided by revenue from the sale of Montana hunting and fishing licenses and matching Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration grants to FWP. Additional funding was provided by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation.
Stewart is a hunter herself and believes that hunters play a significant role in elk conservation.
“It’s been a very cool experience to work on a project of this size that is looking at so many different factors of such an iconic species,” Stewart said. “It’s really fulfilling to have agency support and local support – especially the sportsmen.”
By providing a holistic view that combines topdown and bottom-up approaches, the collaborative efforts of UM researchers, students and FWP are helping to paint the bigger picture of Montana’s elk population.
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In 2008 the space shuttle Atlantis carried three NASCAR starter flags, commemorating the 50th anniversay of the Daytona 500. One of the flages was given to that year’s Daytona winner, Ryan Newman.
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Cornell University founder Ezra Cornell wore a pair of tan silk socks on his wedding day in 1831. In 1990 Cornell graduate G. David Low boarded the space shuttle...carrying Cornell’s socks.
JIM NIELSEN INC.
K-State Research and Extension news service
Keeping food safe during a power outage begins well before winter storms hit, Kansas State University food scientist Karen Blakeslee said.
Before the power goes out, Blakeslee advised keeping an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer. According to guidelines from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the temperature inside the refrigerator should be 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, and the freezer at 0 F or below.
MACHINE & SUPPLY
Blakeslee, who also is coordinator of K-State’s Rapid Response Center for food safety, said having a thermometer in place before the power goes out helps to assure the appliance temperature does not stray outside the recommended range. It may also be a good idea to stock up on canned and non-perishable goods.
“Dried foods, such as fruit, jerky and crackers, are great for snacks,” Blakeslee said. “Keep foods that family members enjoy, but also healthful foods to provide nutrient-dense nourishment.”
Other options include high energy foods such as nut butter, snack bars or trail mix, ready-to-eat canned foods such as fruit, vegetables or meat, and food for infants, elderly persons or those with special diets.
Blakeslee suggests including a can opener, scissors or knife to open containers and other utensils to consume foods and store safely. “It is also a good idea to include bottled water for drinking and rehydrating any dried foods to consume,” she said.
Blakeslee recommends storing pantry foods in a cool, dry, dark location.
When power is first lost, leave the door of the refrigerator and freezer closed to preserve cold temperatures as long as possible. If the power stays out for a longer period of time and the refrigerator is not staying cold, Blakeslee has some additional ideas for protecting food.
“Coolers filled with ice are very helpful in an emergency,” she said. “Make sure ice surrounds the food for the best chilling effect.”
For food in the freezer, dry ice can be used if available –but thick gloves should always be worn when handling dry ice to prevent skin damage. Dry ice should then be kept in a ventilated area.
If the power outage is lengthy, you may not be able to avoid spoiled food. Some signs that may indicate foodborne bacteria include:
Color changes.
Unusual odors.
Texture changes.
The most susceptible foods are meat, dairy, eggs and cut fruits and vegetables. Extra care should be taken when examining these food items.
“Don’t taste any questionable food that has thawed out,” Blakeslee said. “When in doubt, throw it out. Also, don’t feed pets or other animals spoiled food.”
If a power outage lasts more than four hours at temperatures greater than 40 F, refrigerated or frozen food kept without another cold source should be thrown out.
To help determine what foods can be saved or what should be tossed, see Food Safety During Power Outage from FoodSafety.gov.
Tough Guys
I came out of a real deep sleep this Morning, with a tear drop falling down one cheek. You asked what was wrong, and I didn’t say Cuz for a moment, I couldn’t speak.
I had a good dream last night, and it Was all about me and you.
This happens a lot even in my sleep, I have such good feelings of us two.
I never heard before that there were good tears, so I’m guessing they are hard to find. Maybe not a lot of people get to have what We have and our love is a very special kind.
I’m telling you all about his now, but Really, I didn’t want to let you know.
Even tough guys have feelings that can Get real deep, we just try not to let it show.
Copyright Robert Lee Ridgway
Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee donates to Montana Food Bank Network
The Montana Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) Young Farmers and Ranchers (YF&R) Committee presented a check for $9250 to the Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) during their luncheon Tuesday, November 19. The luncheon was part of the 105th MFBF Annual Convention November 18-21 at the DoubleTree and Northern Hotels in downtown Billings.
The donation came from proceeds raised during the YF&R Hoofin’ it for Hunger race September 21 in Dillon, thanks to generous local sponsors, participants and county Farm Bureaus. Although this marked the 14th year for the race, in 2020 and 2021 it was held virtually. This year, participants competed in a 5K or 10K. Virtual runners who opted not to run made up a portion of the proceeds to the Montana Food Bank Network.
YF&R Committee Chair Nick Courville said, “We had another successful year of Hoofin’ it for Hunger in Dillon. The community support is amazing and makes it enjoyable to hold our event there. The partnership with the Montana Food Bank Network is rewarding as we both strive to raise awareness for hunger relief in Montana and continue this incredible
relationship.
MFBN Chief Development Officer Bill Mathews noted, “The Hoofin’ it for Hunger event has created awareness for hunger relief in Montana since 2011, and it has raised $96,550 cumulative, including this year’s donation of $9250 for the Montana Food Bank Network. That amount has provided at least 386,200 meals for those in need. Montana Food Bank Network is grateful for the support and partnership with the Montana Farm Bureau Federation and Young Farmers & Ranchers, plus their dedication to the Hoofin’ it for Hunger event.”
Mathews added that this year, the donation is especially welcome. “Food insecurity continues to rise in 2024 across the state due to inflation and higher food costs. In Montana, one in nine adults and one in six children are food insecure. Donations like this have a significant impact on those facing food insecurity on a day-to-day basis.”
Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) is Montana’s only statewide food bank and a member of Feeding America. MFBN distributes food to 360 partners that include community food banks, pantries, schools, senior centers, and shelters to end hunger in Montana. MFBN’s hunger relief programs include BackPack, Hunters Against Hunger, Mail-a-Meal, No Kid Hungry, Retail Food Rescue, and SNAP outreach. MFBN advocates for long-term policy solutions to strengthen public nutrition programs and address the root causes of hunger. For more information, visit https://mfbn.org.
The Montana Farm Bureau is the state’s largest general agricultural organization with 19,000 members. Montana
Farm Bureau is a grassroots organization dedicated to preserving and improving the agriculture and natural resource industries through member involvement in education, political activities, programs and services. For more information visit mfbf.org.
New Electric Utility vehicle alert!!
Montana Feed Bank Network Board Member Jessy Proctor accepts a check from Nick Courville, chair Montana Farm Bureau Young Farmers & Ranchers Committee. The donation came from money raised during YF&R’s Hoofin’ it for Hunger Race in Dillon, MT.
2024 HAY FOR SALE
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Wesley Thompson of Lexington, in the Junior Division, Sydni Ringenberg of Lexington, in the Senior Division and Delores Brennemann of Hyannis in the Adult Division will be Nebraska’s delegates to the National Finals of the Make It With Wool Contest. They were chosen November 23rd by judges at the state contest conducted by Make It With Wool State Director, Andrea Nisley of Elwood. Contestants participated in the state contest at the Lexington Middle School in Lexington.
The National Make It With Wool Contest is scheduled for January 16-18, 2025 in Scottsdale, Arizonia.
In the Junior Division, the first-place winner was Wesley Thompson, Lexington. Second place in the Junior Division was Maya Soria, Kearney who received a Bernina sewing machine. Other contestants earning honors were third-place winner Greta Rickertsen, Lexington; fourth-place winner Millie Pepplitsch, Lexington; fifthplace winner Emma Olson, Sargent; and sixth-place winner Ashley Schutt, Meadow Grove. Other junior participants were Ella Brennemann, Valentine; Hunter Creech, Mitchell; Lorelai Rickertsen, Lexington; and Dakota Vrbas, Kimball.
First place in the Senior Division was Sydni Ringenberg, Lexington. Second place in the Senior Division was Grace Brennemann, Valentine who received a Elna sewing machine.
In the Preteen Division, the first-place winner was Audrabell Werth, Hyannis, who received a sewing basket with sewing notions. Second-place winner was Bristol McConville, Lexington; third place, Leah Ochsner, Aurora; fourth place, Mollie Spradlin, Cozad; fifth place, Melissa Montano, Kearney; sixth place, Harlow Rickertsen, Lexington; seventh place, Elena McFarland, Lexington; eighth place, Eva De La Cruz, Hampton; ninth place, Eden Ochsner, Aurora; and tenth place, Josue Casanova, Lexington. Other preteen contestants were Scarlett Andrews, Page; Silas Andrews, Page; Brooklyn Creech, Mitchell; Gage Creech, Mitchell; Lysa Duryea, Lexington; Maggie Duryea, Lexington; Barrett Hunke, Lexington; Julia Nicholson, Chadron; Asher Regier, Aurora; Alex Rickertsen, Lexington; Alex Schutt, Meadow Grove; Andrew Schutt, Meadow Grove; Faith Tot, Kearney; and Jaspen Vrbas, Stratton.
In the Adult Division, the first-place winner was Delores Brennemann, Hyannis; second place, Sarah Purcell, Cook; and third place, Melissa Nicholson, Chadron.
In the Made For Others Division, the winner was Kristen Sindelar, Clarkson. She constructed a dress for Avery Schutt, Meadow Grove. The second-place winner was Melissa Nicholson, Chadron, who constructed shorts for her brother, Russell Moore, Chadron.
Montano, Kearney; Elena McFarland, Lexington; Alex Rickertsen, Lexington; Bristol McConville, Lexington; (back row, left to
Rickertsen, Lexington. (Photo courtesy of Andrea Nisley
2024 State Make It With Wool Contest winners included (left to right) Audrabell Werth of Hyannis, Preteen Division; Wesley Thompson of Lexington, Junior Division; Sydni Ringenberg of Lexington, Senior Division; and Delores Brennemann of Hyannis, Adult Division. The state contest was held Saturday, November 23, at the Lexington Middle School in Lexington. (Photo courtesy of Andrea Nisley)
Dawson County’s participants in the 2024 State Make It With Wool Contest were (front row, left to right) Millie Pepplitsch, Lexington; Harlow Rickertsen, Lexington; Barrett Hunke, Lexington; Josue Casanova, Lexington; Mollie Spradlin, Cozad; (second row, left to right) Lysa Duryea, Lexington; Maya Soria, Kearney; Maggie Duryea, Lexington; (third row, left to right) Melissa
right) Wesley Thompson, Lexington; Sydni Ringenberg, Lexington; Greta Rickertsen, Lexington; and Lorelai
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RETIREMENT SALE
2024 North Dakota 4-H Ambassadors selected
Four 4-H’ers have joined the North Dakota 4-H Ambassador program.
The North Dakota 4-H Ambassador program has welcomed four new members.
Sawyer Wilhelmi of Ramsey County, Addilyn Groven of Grand Forks County, Aubrey Delaney of Cass County and Erika Littlefield of Mountrail County have been selected to join the North Dakota 4-H Ambassador program.
Held during the annual ambassador program retreat, the selection event took place on Nov. 23 at the North Dakota 4-H Camp in Washburn, North Dakota. This event was run by selection co-chairs Chensey Thomsen from Barnes County and Savanna Lebrun from Ramsey County.
The North Dakota 4-H Ambassador program is a leadership program for young people ages 16 to 22. Selected ambassadors plan and assist at 4-H events and help promote 4-H across the state.
“I ran to be an ambassador because I want to give back to 4-H, an organization that has profoundly shaped my life,” says Aubrey Delaney. “Through 4-H, I’ve honed my leadership skills and embraced unique opportunities like attending National 4-H Conference, which broadened my horizons and has inspired my future endeavors.”
Addilyn Groven, another newly selected ambassador, looks forward to sharing her excitement with youth across North Dakota: “I ran to be an ambassador not only to gain new leadership skills, but also to share the many opportunities 4-H gives youth in our state.”
The selection process begins with candidates submitting an application and providing references which are judged by application judges. Once the application is received in the state 4-H office, the candidates must commit to the selection interview process.
Candidates must attend in person, where they participate in various events that include a formal and informal interview, a problem-solving event and a group project. The judges’ panel for each event includes North Dakota 4-H Foundation members and North Dakota 4-H Ambassador alumni.
The next opportunity to become an ambassador is during the Extension Youth Conference which will be held at the 4-H camp in Washburn from June 29 through July 2, 2025.
Rubik’s Cube robot
The Rubik’s Cube became an international phenomenon in the 1980s, but it hasn’t entirely faded. “Speedcubing” became so popular that the World Cube Association was founded in 2003 in order to stage competitions and document speed records. But our puny human hands can’t come close to competing with robots that can solve a Rubik’s Cube in less than a second.
The first of these robots is an unnamed creation that requires a specially built Rubik’s Cube for scanning and spinning purposes. First, the cube is scanned on all six sides via camera. Then the custom cube is put into a glass-and-steel contraption that spins the cube into its finished stage. While the spinning itself takes less than a second, the scanning takes much longer.
Designer Mike Dobson created a robot that analyzes and solves the cube in about three seconds. The CubeStormer 3, made almost entirely out of Legos, uses a smartphone to analyze and solve the cube at the same time.
Newly selected North Dakota 4-H Ambassadors are, from left, Aubrey Delaney, Cass County; Addilyn Groven, Grand Forks County; Erika Littlefield, Mountrail County; and Sawyer Wilhelmi, Ramsey County. (NDSU photo)
Below breed average bulls may be better
By Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Educator
The use of genetic selection tools by cattle breeders has resulted in significant changes within many major breeds over the last 30 years. With a few exceptions, the genetic trend has been for more milk, higher weaning weight, and bigger mature weight. Without question, the use of Expected Progeny Differences (EPDs) has enabled this change. While we have achieved our goals of more, have we achieved our goals of better? The late Dr. Bob Taylor from Colorado State University said it well, “Profitable cattle are usually productive, but productive cattle are not always profitable.”
Weaning weight questions
Four benchmark data sets for commercial cow-calf producers from the states of Minnesota, North Dakota, Kansas, as well as Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, have shown little to no change in average weaning weights or calf weaning rates in terms of the percentage of calves weaned per cow exposed over the last 15 years. How can it be that there has been such significant genetic change in several breeds that should increase weaning weights, but records from several commercial cow-calf data sets would indicate that there has been relatively no change?
In 2014, Dr. David Lalman from Oklahoma State University made a presentation at the Applied Reproductive Strategies in Beef Cattle meeting titled “Matching Cows to Forage Resources in a World of Mixed Messages.” Dr. Lalman made the case that the genetic potential of many cattle today is not supported by the forage resources available, so the animals never fully express their genetic potential. He presented data that shows the cost of maintaining larger cows with higher milk potential exceeds the value produced by small increases in calf weaning weights.
In 1988, Dr. Rick Bourdon, wrote a paper titled “Bovine Nirvana – From the Perspective of a Modeler and Purebred Breeder” where he presented the case that genetic selection should be toward the optimum for what a set of resources or environment could support. Dr. Bourdon stated, “To breed for optimum means to have a target insight beyond which you don’t want to go. If your goal is to maintain an optimum level for any trait, the evidence of your accomplishment is not visible change, but lack of it.”
Replacement heifer considerations
Cow-calf producers have EPDs and index tools to make genetic selection decisions related to traits that impact levels of productivity and longevity. Producers selecting sires from which to develop replacement heifers should evaluate where their cow herd is compared to what they believe optimum to be. Success in selecting for optimum means that many producers they will be selecting sires whose EPDs for milk production and mature weight will decrease the average in their herd. Simultaneously, they should be using EPDs to select for traits that will maintain or improve fertility and longevity. Genetic selection and breeding programs should focus on increased profit, and in many cases, this may mean selection for decreased mature weight and milk production to move future replacements for the cowherd towards optimum.
FOR SALE
FARM EQUIPMENT
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Some of the people who say “Our Father” on Sundays go around the rest of the week acting as if they were orphans.
Update on the 2024 Montana MIWW program
By Amanda Powell, Montana MIWW Director
The 2024 Montana Make It With Wool program just finished up their District contests. There are 13 entries across the state this year with lots of amazing talent being shown in those entries. It is exciting to receive new interest in the MIWW program this year.
We could not have a MIWW program at the scale that it currently is without our sponsors. We want to thank all of our sponsors for their continued support.
Montana Wool Growers Association – Promotion and Outreach
Pendleton Woolen Mills
Estate of Robert N. Gilbert
MIWW District #6 – Christine Keltner
John and Karen Helle of Helle Rambouillet
James A. Englert – given In Memory of Edna T. Englert
Hofeldt Livestock – Max, Dawn and Levi Hofeldt
Jerry and Leslie McMillen
Montana Farmers Union
Jeff and Dawnita Sampsel
Jean Harrison
Jack and Kathryn McRae of McRae Brothers Targhees
Nickels Gaming Parlour – Helena
Bob, Marie, Ben and Jamie Lehfeldt of Lehfeldt Rambouillets
Dave and Jennifer Breck
Ken and Phyllis McKamey of McKamey Ranch Co.
Montana Sheep Company – Brent and Tracie Roeder
Leo and Darla Barthelmess
Mike and Cheryl Schuldt of Schuldt Services
Timber Coulee Columbias
Kevin and Shirley Halverson
Duane and Debbie Talcott
Gene and Alice Todd
Ortmann Targhees – Sam and Nancy Ortmann
Liz Jones of Rafter Ranch
Dave and Ruth Hinnaland
Maxine Korman of Korman Ranch Targhees
Dave and Jenny Scott of Montana Highland Lamb
Paul J Wipf
Pete Kuhr
Michael and Thelma Green
Melissa Somerville of Bar H 9
Clover Meadows – Cal and Julie Ward
Belgian Hill Sheep – Mike and Maureen Hoggan
If you are not currently a sponsor for the Montana MIWW program and would like to become one, please contact Amanda at aspowell11@hotmail.com and ask how to make that happen.
Looking to 2025
By Ben Beckman, UNL
As we kick off the new year, people often take time to look back on the past and make plans or resolutions for what’s to come. We can do our own planning for forage production in 2025
First, with an extremely dry end of summer and fall, a lot hangs on moisture this spring. While some late precipitation in 2024 helped, a dry spring can swing the scales back quickly. Any forages planted in the fall without ample irrigation will have a slow start. If conditions do turn dry, have a plan now for adjusting pasture turnout and grazing plans.
On the flip side, if conditions improve, be ready to take advantage. Pasture fertility during challenging years can often be pushed to the back burner, so take a look at the last time you soil sampled your fields. If it’s been a while, consider doing some testing this spring. A small imbalance in fertility can end up with major implications on yield.
Speaking of small changes, encroachment of woody plants like cedar trees continues to be a top issue for pasture and rangeland statewide. However, the start of an infestation, when it’s easiest to control can be easily missed. If you don’t have one yet, consider setting up a formal monitoring plan to help catch small shifts in your grazing resources that can overtime have big impacts.
Finally, annual forages are always a great option to provide fixability and increased production to a forage plan. However, they hinge on one big thing, having seed available to plant. Seed supplies fluctuate annually. Last year saw low supplies for common clovers and sorghums, often driving up prices, which should improve this year. However improved clovers may still be tight. If you know you’ll need a specific variety it’s never too early to start checking in.
Both a warm fall and rapid change to winter increases the potential for stored grain problems, says Ken Hellevang, professor emeritus and retired North Dakota State University Extension agricultural engineer. Grain needs to be dry or cool to prevent mold growth.
For example, cereal grain at 18% moisture content can be stored for up to about 200 days at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or about 90 days at 50 degrees, but only about 15 days at 80 degrees. For each 10-degree increase in grain temperature, the allowable storage time is reduced by about half.
Of course, the allowable storage time increases at lower grain moisture contents. At 70 degrees, the allowable storage time increases from about 30 days for 18% moisture grain to 45 days at 17%, 70 days for 16% and 200 days for 14% moisture cereal grain.
The potential for insect problems also increases at warmer temperatures. Insects are dormant below about 50 degrees, so it is important to keep grain temperature below 50 degrees if possible, says Hellevang. If grain temperature is kept below freezing during winter storage, insects can be killed. Moisture migration in the grain occurs
as much on Feb. 21 as on June 21 due to the low solar angle,” Hellevang says.
During late winter and spring, monitor the grain temperature, particularly near the south wall and near the grain surface, and periodically run the aeration system to keep the grain cool. The goal in northern states should be to keep the grain temperature below 40 degrees as long as possible during the spring and early summer.
There is the potential for bin vent screens to become iced over when operating fans at temperatures near or below freezing. Hellevang recommends to leave a bin fill hole or manhole unlatched as a pressure relief valve if the air is being pushed up through the grain.
Hellevang emphasizes the importance of always remembering safety precautions when working around grain bins. Grain suffocation is likely if someone enters a bin while unloading. It only takes seconds to be engulfed in the grain. Never enter a grain bin without stopping the auger and using the “lock-out/tag-out” procedures to secure it. A person can be buried instantly if grain attached to the bin wall releases or grain in a column collapses. when about a 20-degree temperature difference occurs between the grain and average outdoor temperature. Moisture migration increases the moisture content of the grain near or at the top of the bin. This can increase the moisture content by several percentage points and lead to crusting of the grain. Therefore, the grain should be cooled with aeration when there is a 10- to 15-degree difference between grain and average outdoor temperatures. Grain should be cooled to 20 to 30 degrees for winter storage.
Hellevang recommends to check dry grain at least every two to three weeks as long as the grain is at winter storage temperature. Check at least every couple weeks if it is warmer. Measure and record the grain temperature, watching for trends that indicate problems. Check the grain moisture content and examine the grain in several locations. Moisture measurements of grain at temperatures below about 40 degrees are not accurate. Verify the accuracy of the measurement by warming the grain sample to room temperature in a sealed plastic bag before measuring the moisture content. Search for small changes that are indicators of potential problems. Collect a sample, warm it to room temperature and place the grain on a light-colored or white surface to look for insects.
Grain temperature near the bin wall and on the top surface depends both on the outdoor temperature and solar radiation.
“The amount of solar energy on the south wall of the bin will be two to three times
It’s estimated that a common housefly can have as many as half a billion bacteria on its body.
H A Y F O R S A L E
By Alfredo DiCostanzo, Nebraska Extension Educator
As another winter sets in, cattle producers are reviewing strategies to manage yards during impending cold and wet conditions. Although one could write volumes regarding how cattle cope with cold temperatures, suffice it to say that keeping cattle as dry and comfortable as possible is key. The following scenarios are outlined here with suggestions on how to best manage yards when winter conditions threaten to reduce performance and affect health.
Precipitation with intermittent dry spells. Other than a dry winter, this may be the next easiest scenario to manage; the operator has two choices: 1) proactively bed if they expect that a cold spell will follow or that the 10-day forecast calls for additional precipitation or 2) do nothing.
Generally, manure is permitted to accumulate during dry spells; yet, during precipitation events, dry manure in high traffic areas will rapidly absorb moisture. This will lead to rapid accumulation of muck on concrete surfaces (feed and water troughs, aprons and cattle alleys) resulting in difficult situations for cattle, horses, humans and machinery to get around the pen. Therefore, some operators and many cattle feedlot consultants recommend removal of dry manure shortly before precipitation is expected. This action needs not be confined to concrete surfaces. The base of yard mounds or other sloping areas of the pen may also be scraped to remove dry manure.
What might one do with manure that is scraped? Although there is a temptation to haul it away and apply it to fields before the precipitation event, some might consider keeping and piling manure into 2- to 4-foot-high mounds (32 square feet per head is ideal) onto loafing areas (concrete or dirt; away from feed and water troughs). These mounds will serve as high and “dry” areas for cattle to get away from rapidly forming muck and away from traffic patterns in the pen.
Once prepared, these manure mounds can also serve as the base where dry bedding is applied.
Precipitation followed by extended cold or additional precipitation periods. This scenario is expected to occur when at the start of winter. In the High Plains, deep winter freeze occurs after one or several heavy precipitation events followed by extreme cold temperatures. Thawing from cold temperatures is generally not expected until January, briefly followed by continued cold temperatures, high humidity and precipitation events in February and March. These are the conditions that set up cattle (and cattle feeders) for performance below expectations and worse than break even closeouts.
When facilities managers consider using bedding on dirt or concrete, they generally refer to these conditions as the trigger for bedding cattle. This is when investing in bedding and managing bed packs makes sense.
How much bedding might be needed to establish the base of a pack?
The initial need to bed a given area surprises most operators. This is because a base must rise at least 1 foot above the existing surface (bare concrete or manure mound). This requires a minimum of 12 to 14 lb per head for the initial application; double this estimate if pen conditions are already deteriorating because of rain or snow. This is equivalent to 2 large round corn stalk bales for a 250-head pen (or 4 large round bales if it began to rain or snow).
Should the bedding be processed? For most applications where high traffic will occur (pens stocked heavier, concrete-surfaced pens, cattle nearing finishing weights, and, most importantly, unsurfaced pens), the answer is no. This is because processed bedding will incorporate itself (disappear) into the existing surface by hoof action.
Two key elements of building bed packs, even outdoors, are 1) to continue to keep the areas around the pack free of mud accumulation (it prevents cattle from tracking it onto the pack) and 2) to continue to add bedding to keep it dry.
Scraping around bed packs prevents manure from freezing onto large balls that prevent cattle access to the pack or to water and feed troughs. Adding bedding after scraping can be done with a bale processor or grinder if the base pack is built sufficiently or in pens where there is ample space or lightweight cattle. As a reference (for bedding inventory), prorated over a long period, one might expect to use 4 lb of bedding daily per head.
How often are operators expected to scrape and/or bed? During most winters when cold spells set in, scraping should occur at least once weekly. Bedding should take place immediately after scraping. If scraping stops during subzero temperatures, it cannot be resumed until at least 4 to 7 days of temperatures above freezing. This can create difficult conditions for cattle to get around. When scraping frozen chunks of manure, these can be added to the bed pack before adding dry bedding.
What to do if heavy snowfall is expected? Generally, scraping aprons and high traffic areas is recommended in anticipation of heavy snowfall (more than 3 inches) and immediately after it.
Bedding cattle yards and managing bed packs
CONTINUED FROM PAGE C30
Snow should be removed from pens as soon as possible after scraping (permitting freshly fallen snow or snow mounds to accumulate in the pen will contribute to ice formation creating slippery surfaces and exacerbating muddy conditions when snow melts). Bedding before the snow event is recommended. Bedding after scraping immediately after the snow event is highly recommended.
Clearing snow from the perimetry of water troughs should occur as soon
after a snowfall as possible. Because of curbs and narrow pads surrounding water troughs, hand labor may be required for this effort.
Managing cattle in the yards for cattle comfort, like choosing how much to feed daily, is more of an art than science.
*Author’s note: The suggestions outlined herein are derived from personal experience and conversations with cattle feeders and feedlot consultants. Appreciation is extended to them for their valuable input.
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Sorghum and Millet –Close Cousins?
Brent Bean, Sorghum Checkoff Director of Agronomy
Recently I was asked by a Sorghum Checkoff fellow staff member if sorghum was considered a millet. My answer generated a considerable amount of interest, not only with the person who asked the question but with other staff members as well.
The short answer is no, sorghum is not a millet! This brings up the question of just how closely they are related and why on social media and other outlets are the two crops lumped together.
To answer the first question we need to take a dive into what is called taxonomy – the scientific study of identifying, naming and grouping of organisms based on their shared characteristics.
Most of you at some point in school were introduced to the Linnaeus system with the general categories going from very broad to very specific: Kingdom – Phylum – Class –Order – Family – Tribe – Genus – Species. All grasses are in the Poaceae family. With sorghum and millet, they actually diverge early on and are in different subfamily groups. Surprisingly, sorghum is more closely related to corn in that they are both in the same tribe.
From an origin standpoint, sorghum originated in Africa, where millet has multiple origins across Africa and Asia. These origins have shaped the grains’ abilities to adapt to different regions.
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Barley
So why are sorghum and millet often tied together on social media, in popular articles and sometimes even in scientific publications? The easy answer is because they simply look a lot alike. Even an experienced agronomist can have trouble telling them apart from any significant distance. Their height can be similar, and both produce grain panicles. However, the grain of millet is considerably smaller than that of sorghum. Up close each crop has very distinct characteristics.
Announces
the release and availability of ‘Vaquero’ forage barley. ‘Vaquero’ is a hooded, spring-planted barley developed specifically to produce forage for livestock.
Announces the release and availability of ‘Vaquero’ forage barley. ‘Vaquero’ is a hooded, spring-planted barley developed specifically to produce forage for livestock.
Another reason they are often grouped together is they are both known for their resilience to harsh environmental conditions, particularly drought and high temperatures, making them both suitable for dryland farming in semi-arid regions. They are traditionally grown in subsistence farming systems, especially in Africa and parts of Asia. Due to their adaptability, sorghum and millet reduce the risk of crop failure in dry climates, supporting food security and resilience against climate change. Both are considered ancient grains.
A final similarity that the two species have is that they are considered dual purpose crops. The grain is used for both animal and human consumption while the rest of the plant can be fed to livestock as hay or grazed.
Vaquero is a nutritious, palatable, and economical forage that can be grown alone or in blends with other species. It is generally harvested as hay or silage.
Vaquero is a nutritious, palatable, and economical forage that can be grown alone or in blends with other species. It is generally harvested as hay or silage.
In summary, sorghum and millet, like all grasses, are related. However, purely from a classification standpoint, they are very distant cousins who happen to have evolved to be able to grow and thrive in similar environments.
‘Vaquero’ yields more forage, stands better, and is taller than Stockford. ‘Vaquero’ also produces well when compared to other forage barley varieties.
‘Vaquero’ yields more forage, stands better, and is taller than Stockford. ‘Vaquero’ also produces well when
Highland Specialty Grains, Inc., is the premier breeder of proprietary barley varieties in the western UnitedStates.
Myth or truth
Myth: Cell phones cause cancer
Truth: Dozens of studies have been done (and continue to be done), and the results remain inconclusive. The largest study, conducted in 2005 by the Institute of Cancer Research, tested 4,000 people and found no link between cancer and regular cell phone use. In 2008 an Israeli study concluded that cell phone use caused a 50 percent increased risk of cancer of the salivary glands – located just below the skin where a cell phone touches the face. However, that same year, an Australian study found no link between cell phones and that kind of cancer.
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Why have we heard so much about food recalls?
By Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension food and nutrition specialist
Let’s start with a quick quiz. Name a food that has been recalled in recent months.
Here’s your bonus question: what was the potential issue with the food?
You probably thought of more than one food that has been recalled due to a potential or actual safety threat to the public. Recalls are specific to certain brand names, not every product. Visit the Food and Drug Administration website for details about recalls and other safety alerts.
• Increased early season vigor
• Phosphorus and Zinc to drive rooting & cold start the crop.
• Zinc to help with early season hormone production, ie. Auxin for root and shoot growth.
• Convey Technology to help with early season stresses, such as cool soils and excess moisture. It also improves nutrient use efficiency.
• Other essential nutrients target at each specific crop, ie. Boron for cell wall strength; Manganese for efficient photosynthesis.
• Second chance for a starter fertilizer
• Formulations are targeted at early season root growth (more root = more efficient moisture and nutrient uptake).
• Proactive way of managing the crops nutritional requirement.
• Convey Technology helps with early season stresses such as cool soils, excess moisture, and drought. Also improves nutrient use efficiency.
• Speeds up recovery from herbicide hangover - the correct supply of nutrients helps the crop metabolize the herbicide more quickly.
• Contains novel Phosphorus nutrition, providing increased nutrient uptake and movement within the plant.
• Targeted at the reproductive phse of the plant.
• Proactive way of managing the crops utritional requirement
• Contains other essential nutrients targeted for each specific crop, ie. Boron to aid pollen tube growth, Zinc to help produce Auxin, to ensure healthy pollen tube growth.
Some of the recalls are specific to a small region in the U.S., while other recalls can be nationwide.
You probably remember the 19-state Listeria outbreak linked to deli meats. Ten people died and 60 were hospitalized during the summer of 2024. Previously, lettuce, onions and tomatoes have been linked to outbreaks.
More recently, in November 2024, organic whole carrots potentially contaminated with Shiga toxin-producing E. coli were recalled. Tortilla strips were recalled due to undeclared wheat. Orange custard chocolate chip ice cream was recalled due to undeclared eggs. Soft ripened cheese was recalled due to potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination.
In October 2024, seafood salad was recalled due to undeclared soy. Smoked salmon and chicken street taco meal kits were both recalled due to potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Food recalls also can involve pet foods. For example, chicken chips dog treats were recalled due to potential salmonella contamination in Nov. 2024.
Not all of the recalled foods have been directly implicated in making people sick, but some products have.
Why do we hear about recalls more often? Information is circulated rapidly through various social media, TV news and many other forms of media. Our food travels throughout the U.S.
Recalls fall into three different categories, and companies can voluntarily conduct a recall. The FDA can request or order a recall.
According to the FDA, a Class I recall is a situation where the product can cause serious or fatal health consequences. A Class II recall is a situation where the product can cause temporary health issues but the chances for serious health consequences is rare. A Class III recall usually does not cause adverse health consequences.
If you were to discover a recalled food product in your refrigerator, freezer or cupboard, what should you do?
Should you take your chances and eat a food potentially contaminated with bacteria such as E. coli or Listeria? No, that is not a good plan. We cannot see, smell or taste bacteria or viruses, and tiny amounts could make us very ill.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture does not recommend that we throw caution to the wind. We should not eat the recalled food with potential bacterial contamination. We also should not feed the food to pets, who also can get food poisoning. We should not donate the food to a food bank. Avoid opening the food package. If you already opened the food, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Food recalls often are associated with specific instructions from the manufacturer. Most of the time, you are advised to return the food to where you bought it for a refund. If returning the food is not a possibility, then dispose of the food where no human or animal will consume it.
In 2023, more than half of food recalls were due to undeclared allergens. All foods are required to include the presence of nine allergens (milk, eggs, wheat, soy, sesame, fish, shellfish, tree nuts and peanuts). These allergens are responsible for 90% of food allergies, but there are many other potential food allergens.
Food allergies can be serious, even deadly, for people with allergies.
I am fortunate that I do not have food allergies. I would not be as concerned about missing allergen labeling for myself. However, most of us know people with food allergies, and we might be preparing food for them.
Therefore, handle foods with potential allergens similarly to those with potential bacterial contamination. Make an effort to return mislabeled foods to the store for a refund. Never donate it, because you do not know who might be eating the food.
Obviously, I won’t give you food preparation advice for recalled foods. Following food safety principles is important every day.
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UW releases research on methods to encourage market-based conservation
By Maya Kate Gilmore
The University of Wyoming Extension has released a new publication describing a problem with market-based conservation programs where companies pay landowners to meet certain conservation goals.
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The publication is titled “Credit Failure Risk in MarketBased Conservation Programs: What Is It and Can It Be Helped?” Authors include Kristi Hansen, Chris Bastian, Chian Jones Ritten, and Amy Nagler of the UW Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics as well as Karsyn Lamb, former UW graduate student.
This publication may be especially relevant for any agency or private firm involved in setting up a market-based conservation program.
Market-based conservation strategies can lead to more conservation of ecosystem services, provide additional income for landowners, and offer opportunities for developers to offset environmental damages caused by their projects.
However, “Market-based conservation strategies can involve financial risks for participating landowners,” says Kristi Hansen, Extension water resource economics specialist and associate professor in the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics. “If these risks are not well understood and compensated, conservation managers may not get the participation they had hoped for.”
A market-based conservation program is one way that agencies could encourage conservation on private land. For example, in a market-based conservation system, a developer could pay a landowner to maintain 60% sagebrush cover on five acres of land for five years. This might involve an upfront cost for the landowner, such as buying herbicides to control cheatgrass within the sagebrush habitat.
However, if a wildfire occurred and the sagebrush habitat burned two years into the five-year contract, the landowner might not be reimbursed for this input cost of buying herbicides or the opportunity cost of not doing something that would generate more income on this land for two years. They would not recoup these costs at the end of the five years, as they did not fulfill the terms of the contract.
This is an example of credit failure. A “credit” is the land the landowner agrees to conserve, while “failure” is what happens when the landowner is not able to conserve the land due to factors outside their control, and thus receives no compensation for their input and opportunity costs.
The authors found that reimbursing landowners for this credit failure risk dramatically improved how much land was conserved and how much landowners and developers profited from the conservation market.
For a free downloadable copy of the new publication, visit https://bit.ly/credit-failure. Contact Hansen at (307) 766-3598 or kristi.hansen@uwyo.edu with questions.
Record keeping for taxes
By Shannon Sand, UNL
It’s that time of year again. Time when we need to start preparing for taxes. Most people probably know that farmers and ranchers’ last day to file taxes is March 1st, so it’s important to make sure we have everything together. For example, if you paid an individual a total of $600 or more for rent, services, or interest as part of your agricultural business you may be required to report the payments with form 1099.
Now is a good time to start going through everything and making sure it is in order and noting receipts that are tax deductible like fertilizer, seed, and fuel to name a few. Throughout the year producers receive money, property, and services from many places. Your records can help you identify the source of receipts, and this information is important to help separate farm and nonfarm receipts and taxable from nontaxable incomes. For example, buying fuel for a vehicle that is used to check pasture is tax deductible, as well as things like fencing materials, net wrap, and repairs to equipment to name a few. Preparing now can help speed up the tax preparation process.
All this information is used to help prepare tax returns and just as important can help producers monitor the progress of the operation. Records can show if the business is improving and can help us identify potential changes to make.
For additional information on record keeping and taxes you can visit cap.unl.edu OR the IRS publication 225 (2024) ‘Farmer’s Tax Guide,’ at: https://www.irs.gov/publications/ p225
What’s Your Seed’s Nutrient Status?
Did you know that the first chapter of your crop’s success story starts before it even hits the soil? Proper seed nutrition lays the foundation for early plant development, resilience, and ultimate yield potential. Let’s dig into why nutrient-dense seeds matter — and how you can set your seeds up for success.
Why Seed Nutrition Matters: Benefits of nutrient-dense seeds include:
• Maximize Rooting: Healthy roots create an optimal root-toshoot ratio, enabling better nutrient and water uptake.
• Improved Seedling Vigor: Robust seedlings emerge quickly and compete better in the field.
• Enhanced Stand Uniformity: A more consistent plant stand simplifies timing for operations such as spraying.
• A “Cold Start” Advantage: Nutrient-dense seeds kickstart growth, even under chilly, challenging spring conditions.
• Resilience Against Stress: Properly nourished seeds are better equipped to fend off diseases, pests, and environmental stressors.
The Shocking Truth About Nutritional Imbalances: Here’s a surprising stat: 90% of seeds are nutritionally imbalanced. That’s right—most seeds aren’t living up to their genetic potential.
Third-party lab tests confirm that:
• 76% of seeds are deficient in Zinc
• 81% are deficient in Boron
• 96% of samples show at least one deficiency in critical nutrients such as Zinc, Boron, Copper, or Manganese.
Zinc and Boron are especially vital for germination and early growth, making it essential to address these imbalances before planting.
These deficiencies can spell trouble for seedling vigor, root development, and photosynthetic efficiency. But there’s good news—nutritional imbalances can be addressed before planting.
Is Your Seed Nutrient Imbalanced? Get Your Seed Tested to Find Out
In order to determine whether or not a seed nutrient dressing would be beneficial, conduct an analytical seed test through an independent third party lab. Below is a sample of a seed test concluding that the seed was deficient in both Boron and Zinc.
Top 5 Essential Nutrients Your Seed Needs:
Working in conjunction with leading nutritionists, we have determined the key essential nutrients required to overcome the
imbalances within the seed. These essential nutrients include: Zinc, Phosphorus, Manganese, Boron, and Calcium. It is critical to understand that the amount of each nutrient and the ratio between nutrients will vary from crop to crop.
ZINC
When the seed starts to germinate, it takes in water and this initiates numerous enzymatic activities. Zinc is the key nutrient that drives these processes, including auxin production. During germination, all the nutrients required for initial root and shoot growth are stored within the seed. If the seed has low zinc levels, there will be a reduction in early season vigor and root development.
PHOSPHORUS
When we consider Zinc, we should always look at it in association with Phosphorus, as the nutrients have a synergistic effect on the plant. Phosphorus is critical for photosynthesis (ATP production) and drives early season rooting. Phosphorus needs to be placed on the seed or in very close proximity to the seed since it is not a mobile nutrient and not readily available, especially in cold soils.
MANGANESE
Manganese is critical for photosynthesis. During this process, its primary role is to split the water molecules. Manganese is also involved in lignin production within the plant. Low levels of Manganese will lead to poor photosynthetic activity, resulting in a smaller root system and a “limp” above-ground portion of the seedling.
BORON
Boron is mainly associated with pollen production but is also important during the plant’s early life. If a plant is Borondeficient, the root system will have very poor cell wall integrity, releasing amino acids, sugars and Potassium (K) into the rhizosphere rather than being utilized by the roots. The end result is
the soil pathogens benefit from the release of metabolites and the plant has poor root health.
CALCIUM
Calcium is important for cell wall integrity and overall strength of both the roots and the leaves. Calcium needs to be correlated to Boron levels to ensure the proper ratios are established to maximize seedling strength, plant health and ultimately overall vigor
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PreCede makes it easy to provide your seeds with the precise nutrition they need for germination and early growth. Every crop has unique nutrient requirements, and PreCede’s formula is tailored to meet these needs. PreCede contains:
• Plant Nutrition: A precise mix of macro- and micronutrients to address deficiencies, enhance germination, boost seedling vigor, and strengthen rooting.
• Biostimulants: Convey and Cellburst improve rooting, nutrient uptake, and stress tolerance, reducing abiotic and biotic challenges.
Cars, Light Trucks, Heavy Duty Farm & Over-the-road Trucks Travel safely on winter roads. Install New Tires Now
By Emily How, Horticulture agent, NDSU Extension - Ward County
“You’ll never guess what I found behind the shed… another peony,” I shouted to my husband. This makes the tenth peony we have found in a random location around our backyard. Considering the peony is growing right next to my compost bin, I am not planning on keeping it there. Add that to the lilies I found along the fence line, the iris in the middle of the yard and the surprise tulips that popped up this spring in the front of the house, I have enough flowers to fill in some of the bare spots in my landscaping.
Now is a great time to do the landscape facelift I have been itching to work on all summer. The garden is maintaining a steady production of vegetables and most of the spring and summer flowering plants have already bloomed. It’s time to conquer the plants that will be divided or moved; this will give them the time needed to settle into their new location before the first frost comes.
Why divide perennials? Plants can get overcrowded in a flower bed, decreasing the airflow through the plants. Decreased airflow leads to diseases such as powdery mildew or rust fungi. Dividing perennials will prevent them from overtaking an area of your landscape. Dividing plants also reduces competition for nutrients in the soil. Reducing competition promotes more growth and more blooms. Some flowers, like iris, will not bloom as often if overcrowded.
Dividing plants is simple. Water the soil deeply the day before dividing to loosen the soil and give the plant enough moisture to withstand transplanting. If possible, divide on cool, cloudy days to prevent the plants from drying out. Use a spade or a sharp knife to dig up the plant, then either loosen the roots and gently pull the plant apart or cut the plant with a clean, sharp knife or spade. Aim to have at least three vigorous shoots on each division. Place the divided plant into a moist, shaded area until ready to replant. If you are dividing a plant with a rhizome, such as an iris, cut the rhizome into 3 to 4-inch sections with a clean, sharp knife. Common perennials that can be divided in the fall include peonies, iris, lilies and salvia. As a rule of thumb, spring- and summer-blooming perennials should be divided in the fall, and fall-blooming perennials in the spring.
Some plants need to be divided more often than others. For instance, alliums should be divided more often than blanket flowers
Other plants do not respond well to division. Balloon flower, for example, do not like to be disturbed and will not bloom for a few years after division. Their roots are also brittle and should be handled carefully if dividing and . For more information about how and when to divide perennials, visit the University of Minnesota Extension’s guide on how and when to divide perennials at https://extension.umn.edu/ planting-and-growing-guides/dividing-perennials.
As for my large collection of randomly found peonies, I’ve been giving them to friends as an easy perennial for their landscapes. Though I don’t need or really want them, it is still exciting to find a random peony in my yard and wonder how or why it’s there.
For more information about gardening, contact your local NDSU Extension agent. Find the Extension office for your county at ndsu.ag/countyoffice.
Beer Can Day
Observed on January 24th Beer Can Appreciation Day celebrates that great day in 1935 when beer was first sold in cans. On January 24, 1935, the American Can Company and Gottfried Krueger Brewing Company first sold Krueger’s Finest Beer and Krueger’s Cream ale in Richmond, VA. Major brewing companies quickly followed suit. Over 200 million cans were sold in the first year.
There’s a big market for beer cans. Many people are beer can collectors out there. And, we’re not talking about taking them back to the store to get your deposit back. If you come across an old can, do not throw it out. Rather, check out the prices in a collector’s catalog, or on eBay.
Collectors meticulously open a beer can from the bottom, empty it, and drink it, of course. Then, they wash and dry it. For collectors, there is no shortage of types of beer, cans and bottles, and sizes. A beer can collector may have hundreds of cans and bottles.
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A popping experiment
By Carrie Knutson, NDSU Extension agent, Grand Forks County
Did you try to grow anything new in your garden this growing season? If you are a regular reader of this column, you know I usually try to grow a new fruit or vegetable at home or in my school gardens. I had great success with okra last year. This year I decided to try something new at home. It is neither a fruit nor a vegetable, it is a grain.
My family loves popcorn and while cruising the seed packets at the local garden center, I spied some popcorn seeds. I thought let’s try growing some this year. It was a last-minute impulse and I should have done a bit of research first. As a result, I will share some tips to help make your popcorn-growing experience easier.
Popcorn, scientifically known as Zea mays everta, is different than our typical sweet and field corn. The outside of the kernel is tough, and the inside is starchy and has some moisture. The moisture is important as it is what allows the kernels to burst or “pop” when they are heated.
Corn is a cross-pollinated crop. This means pollen from the tassels (male flower) of one plant can land on and fertilize the silks (female flower part) of a different plant. This isn’t a bad thing if you have the same variety of corn planted nearby. If you have different types of corn close together, the kernels will have different characteristics than the seed you planted. Consequently, popcorn must be isolated from other sweet or field corn plantings to prevent any popping issues.
Corn pollen can be carried by the wind and by insects. To ensure you have the best popping corn, isolate your patch by a distance of 300 feet. This is where the research comes in for my popcorn crop. I planted the popcorn next to sweet corn. I had some interesting cobs as a result.
You can also plant popcorn first as it takes more time to mature and then plant sweet corn a couple of weeks later. Corn seed germinates best when the soil temperatures are warm, about 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Plant popcorn seeds in a grouping of at least four rows.
Rows can be spaced 18 to 24 inches apart. Follow the directions on the seed packet for seed depth and spacing in the rows. Be patient. Popcorn can take a long time to germinate and emerge from the ground. Trust me, patience is key. I thought about reseeding several times before the seedlings emerged.
Leave your popcorn cobs to dry in the garden as long as possible. It will probably be one of the last crops you harvest. The quality of the popcorn will depend on the moisture level at which it is stored.
You can try popping a few kernels every couple of weeks. High moisture kernels will have popcorn that is tough and chewy. Once you have the perfect consistency, you can shell the kernels from the cobs and store them in sealed airtight containers.
There are lots of different popcorn varieties to choose from. Make sure to select a variety that will mature during your growing season. The NDSU Extension Home Garden Variety Trials recommend Dakota Black for popcorn varieties.
I tried Japanese Hulless and Strawberry popcorn this year with surprisingly good results. If you have a good popcorn variety to share, drop me a “kernel” and let me know. Happy gardening!
Jules Verne, futurist
In 1828, when French writer Jules Verne was born, ocean voyages took months, and there were hardly any railroad tracks. Three decades later, steam-powered ships and locomotives were taking people across oceans and continents in only a week. Knowing that the rate of changes was increasing, in 1863 Verne attempted to track it in a book called Paris in the 20th Century. Among Verne’s predictions for the 1960s: glass skyscrapers, high-speed trains, gas-powered cars, airconditioned houses, fax machines, and corner stores. His publisher rejected the manuscript as being too “far-fetched.” Verne’s next novel, From the Earth to the Moon, was a pioneering work of both science fiction and foresight. The plot: three wealthy men financed a trip to the Moon. Their ship was launched from a cannnon, so Verne got that part wrong, but he was close to the mark on other details–including the rocket’s escape velocity, the Florida launch site (where NASA missions would take place a century later), the three-man crew, and the splashdown in the Pacific. Even more uncanny, Verne’s Moon trip cost $5,446,675 ($12 billion in 1969, money). Cost of the actual Moon mission: $14.4 billion.
Reducing hay feeding losses
By Ben Beckman, UNL
Hay is expensive and many long hours go into harvesting, storing, and feeding it. Don’t waste up to a third of it by using poor feeding practices.
Believe it or not, cattle can trample, over consume, manure on, and use for bedding up to 25 to 45 percent of your hay when it is fed with no restrictions. Extra control in feeding can pay off big time with that expensive hay.
For starters, don’t provide more than one day’s supply at a time. Research has shown that when cows are fed a four-day supply, they will overeat and waste 20 to 30 percent more hay than when they are fed one day at a time. This adds up to $50 to $75 more per cow over a four-month feeding period. Best of all is to feed only what the livestock will clean up in one meal, so nothing is left over to be wasted. Be sure to provide sufficient space, though, for all animals to eat at once so boss cows don’t stop timid cows from getting their fair share.
Another thing you can do is restrict access to hay. Use bale racks or rings to keep animals off the hay. Especially useful are racks with barriers around the bottom that prevent livestock from pulling hay loose with their feet and dragging it out to be stepped on. If you unroll bales or grind and feed on the ground, position an electric fence alongside or above the hay to keep cows from trampling or bedding down on the hay.
As always, feed a balanced ration that provides sufficient energy and protein, but not too much. Animals that eat more protein than they need will simply excrete it as extra nitrogen in their urine. This is just as wasteful as directly trampling it into the ground.
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The
Ft. Laramie Tunnel replacement delayed
By
Gary Stone, Extension Water & Cropping Systems Educator; Jessica Groskopf, Extension Agricultural Economics Educator; John Thomas, Extension Water & Cropping Systems Educator; Xin Qiao, Irrigation & Water Management Specialist
Replacement of the Goshen / Gering-Fort Laramie canal irrigation tunnels No. 1 and 2 was expected to begin this fall. However, the permitting process has slowed this objective and is awaiting final approval. It is hoped that the permitting process will be completed soon and some preliminary work can be completed before water deliveries are started in the spring of 2025
The preliminary work includes building access roads to the construction sites, installing power lines to serve the construction equipment during the tunnel replacement, and working on the tunnels’ entrances and exits. The final cost of the construction project has yet to be determined. Both irrigation districts/states have contributed approximately 45 million dollars for the tunnel replacement, with the balance coming from a loan from the Bureau of Reclamation, which must be approved.
If all goes well with permitting approval, secure funding, and engineering plans are completed, the actual replacement of the tunnels can commence in the fall of 2025. The irrigation districts plan to start work with tunnel No. 2. The boring machine will be built on site, and the construction will be started at the exit end of the tunnel, progressing up the tunnel to the entrance. The old tunnel will be bored out larger than the existing tunnel, so the old tunnel and any construction timbers from the initial construction will be removed. As the tunnel excavation progresses in five-foot increments, the old tunnel and surrounding substrate will be removed. Pre-cast reinforced concrete sections will be installed and bolted together as work progresses up the tunnel. The void left between the outside of the new tunnel wall and the tunnel substrate will be filled with grout. Replacement of Tunnel No. 1 would begin in the fall of 2026.
An update on the tunnel replacement will be presented at the 2025 Yonts Water Conference, which will be held on April 9, 2025, at the Panhandle Research, Extension, and Education Center in Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
Mr. Bell’s assistant
It’s one of the most famous moments in the history of invention. It’s 1876, and Alexander Graham Bell has been struggling for weeks to get this telephone contraption to work. He yells: “Mr. Watson! Come here! I want to see you!” Thomas Watson, sitting in the next room behind a closed door, hears the scream over his crude telephone receiver. The first telephone call has been made–and the world will never be the same.
Thomas Augustus Watson was an essential contributor to the invention of the telephone. He was only 22 when he got that famous phone call, but Bell might never have made it if it hadn’t been for Watson’s knowledge of electrical devices, particularly wound-coil electrical devices, which were the key to Bell’s big breakthrough.
Watson worked for several years as the Bell Telephone Company’s chief repairman and testified for the company at patent infringement trails. He also invented the telephone booth–his prototype was a tunnel of blankets used to insulate his voice so his landlady wouldn’t complain about the noise. In 1883 he perfected the design using a wood frame, domed top, ventilator, windows, and a desk with a pen and ink. By the time he was 27, flush with patent royalties, he quit Bell. He started his own machine shop, building marine engines, and later, ships. In Braintree, Massachusetts, he helped with the construction of schools–including the town’s first night school and first kindergarten–and often paid teachers from his own pocket. He established the town’s first electric plant and streetlights. In 1903 he took up geology at MIT, then traveled to Alaska and California to prospect for precious ores.
In 1915, as part of the launch of transatlantic telephone service, Watson and Bell reenacted their famous conversation, this time with Watson in San Francisco and Bell in New York. In response to Bell’s “Mr. Watson! Come here!” Watson replied he would be glad to “but that it would take more than a week.”
