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If you still have grass, grow now, graze later
Stockpile Missouri pastures by fertilizing now and delaying grazing to save hay and boost forage quality through winter.
Incentive funds for cover crops and silvopasture available
Missouri farmers can apply for cover crop and silvopasture incentive funds through Aug. 31 to support climate-smart practices.
Our Community, Our Health: learning from local voices
BENTON, Mo. – Maude Harris really wants to know what people in Scott County think about the COVID-19 vaccine and other community health measures.
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Now is time for 911 emergency forages
Explore emergency forage options to sustain livestock during ongoing drought and feed shortages.
Drought meetings offered in SW Missouri Aug. 4
Attend free SW Missouri meetings Aug. 4 for cattle producers on drought survival, hay management, and feeding strategies.
Early weaning calves to reduce nutrient needs during drought
STOCKTON, Mo. – “Early wean calves to reduce cow herd nutrient needs to match drought-limited feed resources,” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist. In addition, early weaning can improve calf performance because calves are put on a more nutritious diet following weaning.Davis discusses strategies to help cattle producers be successful in early weaning calves:
Seed for an 'annual pasture within a perennial pasture'
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Producers looking for ways to grow forages during drought might consider planting an “annual pasture within a perennial pasture,” says University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Harley Naumann.Naumann says this is a good year to add cool-season annual grass seed to perennial pastures. Cool-season grasses can extend the growing season, provide excellent nutritive value and complement thin pastures.
Use caution when using drought-stricken corn for relief feed
Learn safe methods for feeding drought-stressed corn to livestock, including nitrate testing, harvesting, and supplementation tips.
Rotten tomatoes star in garden horror show
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Your beautiful tomato plant is setting fruit and soon has nice green tomatoes. Then, to your horror, a dark sunken spot shows up at the bottom of the fruit.You might think an insect or disease has attacked your plant, but such is not the case. Old-timers referred to the problem as “sooty snoot.” Today, it is called blossom-end rot. It is a physiological disorder caused by a calcium imbalance.
Don't waste precious hay during drought
Protect hay during drought by feeding wisely, reducing waste, and improving herd performance with simple strategies.
Check with your crop insurance agent before you cut
Consult your insurance agent before cutting or grazing crops to protect coverage and avoid losing potential claims.
Things to consider as you feed your way through the drought
“Cattle producers are dealing with varying degrees of drought and forage resources,” says Patrick Davis MU Extension livestock field specialist. Some cattle producers have received adequate rain and are recovering from the 2022 drought through rebuilding forage and cattle resources. Other cattle producers have received limited rain and are continuing to deal with drought conditions from 2022 with less resources in 2023.
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Top 5 livestock forage actions to take during drought
Learn five key actions to manage livestock forage and feed effectively during drought conditions.
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Ammoniation stretches hay supplies during drought
This is part of an MU Extension series to help row crop and livestock producers manage drought. For more articles, go to Drought Resources. COLUMBIA, Mo. – As hay supplies dwindle, University of Missouri Extension agronomist Rusty Lee is showing forage producers how to use a simple, inexpensive treatment to stretch feed supplies during drought.
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Vacation planning includes plant care
Tips for arranging care of your indoor and outdoor plants while you’re away on vacation.
Trees in drought: Love and water deeply
Protect trees in drought by watering deeply, mulching, and checking soil to keep roots healthy and resilient.
Use spray-wait-spray to renovate drought-stricken pastures
Learn how the spray-wait-spray method can renovate drought-hit pastures with nontoxic fescue efficiently.
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Building bridges through virtual cultural exchange
Missouri and Bangladesh youth explore culture, family, and healthy living through virtual meetings and collaborative projects.
Missouri SBDC continues to “Elevate” second-stage businesses
Missouri SBDC's Elevate program helps second-stage businesses grow, expand markets, and strengthen leadership with expert guidance.
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Tar spot of corn confirmed in June in Missouri – the earliest ever
In June 2023, tar spot of corn was confirmed in Holt and Marion counties, Missouri, marking the earliest detection in the state.
Keep your farm running smoothly with a midyear 'tuneup'
Reassess budgets, labor, leasing, services and succession now to keep your farm running smoothly all season.
What is the cost of baling wheat straw?
Learn how to calculate the cost of baling wheat straw by weighing nutrient value, soil impacts, baling charges, and profit margins for fair pricing.
High heat and dry conditions can put fish ponds at risk
High heat and dry conditions can lower pond oxygen and water levels, putting fish at risk and requiring careful management.
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Bristle for thistles that run amok
Musk and bull thistles have spread across Missouri fields, requiring control. Learn strategies for thistle management, including mowing and biological methods.
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Missouri youths compete at 2023 State 4-H Poultry Day
Missouri youths showcased poultry skills in judging, contests, and quiz bowls at the 2023 State 4-H Poultry Day.