The following publications might be of particular interest to people in Webster County. For a complete list of MU Extension publications, visit the main Publications page.
Small Flock Series: Incubation of Poultry
Revised
Learn how to incubate chicken eggs for small flocks or classrooms, covering egg handling, storage, and embryo development stages.
Safe Ground Handling of Horses
Revised
During the last decade, participation in horse-related activities has continued to grow. The National Safety Council estimates that more than 10 million people in the United States are involved in equine sports. Membership in many horse associations has grown steadily.
Water-Efficient Gardening and Landscaping
Reviewed
Learn water-saving techniques for gardening, from drought-tolerant plants to efficient irrigation methods, and create a sustainable, beautiful landscape.
Septic Tank/Absorption Field Systems: A Homeowner's Guide to Installation and Maintenance
Revised
70% of septic tanks don't function properly. Visit our site for our: Septic Tank/Absorption Field Systems: A Homeowner's Guide to Installation and Maintenance.
Plants Poisonous to Livestock
Reviewed
Guide to identifying common Missouri plants toxic to livestock, including symptoms and habitats.
Seeding Rates, Dates and Depths for Common Missouri Forages
Reviewed
Visit our site for our resource on Seeding Rates, Dates and Depths for Common Missouri Forages.
How to Manage and Control Storm Water Runoff (Fact Sheet)
New
Learn effective strategies to manage stormwater runoff, reduce pollutants, and implement landscaping practices to protect environmental quality.
Drinking Water Well Management (Work Sheet)
New
Assess risks related to your drinking water well location, construction, maintenance, and water quality to ensure safe and reliable water sources.
How to Manage and Control Storm Water Runoff (Work Sheet)
New
Assess storm water runoff risks and learn strategies to reduce pollution through practical steps for managing runoff effectively.
Household Wastewater: Septic Systems and Other Treatment Methods (Fact Sheet)
New
Learn how to maintain your septic system, reduce pollution risks, and protect water quality with practical tips on design, maintenance, and wastewater inputs.
Drinking Water Well Management (Fact Sheet)
New
The publication provides guidance on managing private drinking water wells in Missouri to prevent contamination from bacteria and nitrates.
Household Wastewater: Septic Systems and Other Treatment Methods (Work Sheet)
New
Use this worksheet to assess risks related to septic system design, location, maintenance, and inputs to protect household wastewater systems.
Pesticide Dilution Table
Reviewed
Find pesticide dilution guidelines for farm and home use, including calculations for different concentrations and spray volumes.
Managed Grazing Systems and Fencing for Distribution of Beef
New
Effective grazing management enhances pasture productivity and water quality by optimizing plant growth and nutrient distribution.
Separation Distances for Livestock Manure Management Systems
Revised
Separation distances for manure storage and land application help protect water quality by minimizing contamination risks from livestock operations.
All-Terrain Vehicles
Revised
Since their introduction, the use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) has increased dramatically each year. In addition to widespread recreational use, the agricultural sector has realized the value of the ATV as a workhorse. Unfortunately, fatalities and injuries involving ATVs are occurring at an alarming rate. Many of these accidents could have been prevented by knowing and following a few steps for safe ATV use.
Nitrate in Drinking Water
Reviewed
Nitrate contamination in drinking water poses health risks to infants and livestock, leading to conditions like methemoglobinemia.
Reducing Pond Seepage
Revised
Pesticide Application Safety
Revised
The great variety of pesticides used in America's agricultural production system presents varying degrees of hazard. These products were made to alter life cycles of living pest organisms, and many of these products are dangerous to people if not handled properly.
Tractor Tire and Ballast Management
New
Careful management of ballast and tire inflation pressure can maximize tractive efficiency, minimize compaction, increase tractor drivetrain life and increase profitability.
Noise: The Invisible Hazard
Reviewed
Farm workers experience one of the highest rates of hearing loss among all occupations. This is due in part to the many potential sources of loud noise on the farm: tractors, combines, grinders, choppers, shotguns, conveyors, grain dryers, chain saws, etc. Prolonged exposure to excessive noise can cause permanent hearing losses unless noise control measures are taken.
Johnsongrass Control
New
Johnsongrass is a troublesome perennial grass weed that reduces yields in many crops. Visit our website to learn about Johnsongrass control.