University of Missouri Extension
       Phelps County


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Phelps County University of Missouri Extension

Courthouse, 200 North Main, Suite G-08,
Rolla, Missouri 65401
Phone: (573) 458-6260
Fax: (573) 458-6264
Hours: 8:00 am - 4:30 pm M - F
(lunch 12:00-12:30)

Services offered by University of Missouri Extension in Phelps County

Soil Testing and Plant Diagnostic Services
Crop producers, commercial horticultural growers and home gardeners can receive diagnoses for plant diseases or pest infestations, and have soil analyzed. Soil testing provides analysis of pH, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, organic matter percent, neutralizable acidity, cation exchange capacity and effective neutralizing material (EMN). Customers will receive recommendations for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and liming (or acidifying). Tests for nitrate, boron, zinc, sulfur, iron, manganese and copper also are available at additional cost. For information on sampling methods, see G9215 Soil Sampling Pastures and G9217 Soil Sampling Hayfields and Row Crops.

For information on test results, see G9112, "Interpreting Missouri Soil Test Reports". Regional specialists also can assist you with additional information and recommendations. Contact us for more information.

  • Plant Diagnostic Clinic The MU Plant Diagnostic Clinic identifies insects, diseases and weeds, and provides management solutions for these problems.
  • Plant Nematology Laboratory This laboratory examines soil and plant samples qualitatively and quantitatively for the presence of plant parasitic nematodes. Recommendations are provided for management strategies to reduce the effect of nematodes on plant growth and yield.
  • Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory The MU Soil and Plant Testing Laboratory provides fertilizer recommendations based on soil or plant analysis to farmers, home owners, vegetable and fruit growers, golf course superintendents, and lawn and landscape specialists.

Family Nutrition Education Program
The Family Nutrition Education Program helps limited-resource families and individuals improve their health and fitness. Education focuses on teaching healthier eating habits, understanding of food safety and better management of food dollars. FNEP is available to individuals, groups and school at no cost. Contact us for more information on FNEP.

Center for Distance and Independent Study
Pick up your copy of the University of Missouri Center for Distance and Independent Study catalog. The center offers university-level credit and non-credit courses. Check out MU High School, a fully-accredited program, offering individual courses or a complete curriculum, as well as core-subject curriculums for grades 3-8. CDIS course tests may be taken at the extension center; contact us for more information.

MU Direct: Continuing and Distance Education
MU Direct: Continuing and Distance Education offers online degrees in education, journalism and several health-care fields, including nursing, management, informatics and respiratory therapy. These are available to students across Missouri and beyond. Mid-Missourians can pursue a bachelor of general studies or master of public administration by attending MU In The Evening classes.

Cost of soil testing in Phelps County is $14.00. Samples are mailed in every Friday and take about two weeks for results to be returned.

Canner Gauge Tests
Bring your dial-type pressure canner lid to extension center for testing and examination. Dial-type gauges should be tested annually to ensure accuracy and prevent bacterial contamination of preserved foods. (Testing is not necessary for weighted gauges.) Testing is offered for a nominal fee.

Cost of canner gauge testing in Phelps County is $1.00.

Private Pesticide Applicators Training
The Private Pesticide Applicator Training (PPAT) Program at the University of Missouri involves the initial training and recertification of Missouri’s approximately 24,000 private pesticide applicators. The need for training in the application of pesticides is of high importance due to both the legal requirements and a real need for technical knowledge. Society’s demands for a cleaner environment encourage private applicators (farmers) to increase their knowledge and put new practices into use. The MU private pesticide applicator program reaches into essentially each of Missouri's 114 counties to train farmers on the safe and proper use of agricultural pesticides on their farmlands, including restricted-use pesticides (RUPs). To obtain or renew your PPAT you are required to view a 2 1/2 hour video. There is no fee for this service. Please call to set up an appointment, 573-458-6260.

Business Start-Up Counseling
Wanting to start a business?  Our Business Development Specialist offers personal counseling to help you get started upon request.  Please call to set up an appointment, 573-458-6260.

Personal Budgeting Counseling
Our Family Financial Educator offers family and personal budgeting counseling upon request at no charge.  Please call to set up an appointment, 573-458-6260.


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University of Missouri Extension University of Missouri 
Extension
Phelps County
phelpsco@missouri.edu
Site maintained by Laura Faherty
fahertyl@missouri
.edu
Updated 05/29/08
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