Explore a variety of helpful publications for the Lewis County area, offering insights on topics like agriculture, livestock, and community services.
The following publications might be of particular interest to people in Lewis County. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Control of Poultry Disease Outbreaks
Revised
Poultry owners should immediately begin an investigation if a disease is suspected in a flock. Obvious disease signs and symptoms can be identified on the farm, while others may require laboratory assistance for proper diagnosis.
Basics of AI: Avian Influenza
Revised
Avian influenza is a contagious respiratory disease affecting birds, with some strains causing severe illness and high mortality in poultry.
Prevention of Poultry Disease
Reviewed
An adequate disease prevention program is essential to a profitable commercial poultry operation. Chronic diseases can reduce efficiency and increase costs. Learn the sources of poultry diseases and measures that can be taken to prevent them.
Avian Influenza Biosecurity for Small Flock Owners
Revised
Protect your backyard flock from avian influenza with practical biosecurity tips to reduce disease risks during outbreaks.
Split-Time AI: Using Estrus Detection Aids to Optimize Timed Artificial Insemination
Revised
Timed artificial insemination pregnancy rates in heifers can be optimized with a split-time AI approach. Estrotect estrus detection aids allow producer to determine the estrous status of females. Learn about the protocols in this MU Extension guide.
The Random Shuffle of Genes: Putting the E in EPD
Reviewed
Understanding EPD variability: how genetic shuffling during reproduction leads to differences among full siblings in cattle.
Guide to Estrus Synchronization Products
Revised
Several protocols and other resources allow beef producers to effectively synchronize estrus and ovulation in the herd. Read this guide for an overview of the function, handling considerations, and proper administration of estrus synchronization products.
Feeding Organic and Inorganic Sources of Trace Minerals for Swine Production
Reviewed
Explore the benefits of zinc, copper, and selenium in swine diets, comparing organic and inorganic sources to enhance growth and reproductive health.
Antibiotics and Other Additives for Swine: Food Safety Considerations
Reviewed
Learn about antibiotics and additives in swine production, their benefits for growth and feed efficiency, and best practices for safe and effective use.
Evaluating Vitamin Premixes for Swine
Reviewed
Compare swine vitamin premixes by cost, composition, and effectiveness to support balanced, economical feed formulation on your farm.
Control of Anaplasmosis in Missouri
Revised
Learn how anaplasmosis affects cattle, how it's spread, and ways to manage and prevent this disease to reduce herd loss and economic damage.
Top Money-Saving Practices on Missouri Poultry Farms
New
The poultry industry continues to be an important component of Missouri's economy, with the 2007 census reporting $1,676,632,000 in sales. This figure represents 16.8 percent of Missouri's agricultural sales and ranks third in sales in Missouri only behind grain crops and cattle. Poultry operations are highly efficient environments in which temperature, humidity and lighting are closely monitored to raise high-quality birds.
Freeze Branding Cattle
Reviewed
Small Flock Series: Brooding and Growing Chicks
Revised
Raising a flock of chickens can be difficult. Visit our website today to view our Small Flock Series: Brooding and Growing Chicks.
Hot Weather Livestock Stress
Reviewed
Learn how high temperatures and humidity affect livestock, and discover strategies to mitigate heat stress during summer months.
Common Internal Parasites of Cattle
Reviewed
Johne’s Disease or Paratuberculosis
Reviewed
Sheep Pregnancy Checking by Ultrasonic Sound
Reviewed
Ultrasonic technology allows early, non-invasive pregnancy detection in sheep, helping farmers identify pregnant ewes for better flock management.
Bovine Leukosis
Reviewed
Enzootic bovine leukosis causes lymphatic tumors in cattle; BLV spreads via blood, colostrum, and possibly biting flies.

Recommendations for Aging Beef
Reviewed
The main reason for aging beef is to improve the tenderness and the flavor of the meat. Visit our site for recommendations for aging beef.

Hardware Disease of Cattle
Reviewed
Hardware disease of cattle is produced by a sharp object that pierces the stomach wall and gains access to the heart. Visit our site to learn more.
Lewis County Courthouse
New
Explore the 1875 Lewis County Courthouse in Monticello, Missouri—its design, history, and architectural features.