Global speaker series celebrates International Year of the Woman Farmer
University of Missouri Extension’s Pearls of Production program will host a free global speaker series in 2026 in recognition of the International Year of the Woman Farmer. The series will feature women agricultural leaders from around the world.
MU Extension hosts free ag resources webinar April 9 and 16
Missouri farmers are invited to attend a free, two-part agricultural resources webinar at noon on April 9 and April 16. MU Extension livestock specialist Elizabeth Picking and agronomy specialist Haley Schwantz will lead the sessions, which highlight assistance available through state and federal partners.
Smartphones can save lives on the farm
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Your smartphone can improve farm safety during calving or planting this spring, says University of Missouri Extension state specialist for health and safety Karen Funkenbusch.
Women Owning Woodlands offers chainsaw safety workshop
Women Owning Woodlands will offer a beginner chainsaw safety workshop. The workshop includes three virtual sessions leading up to an in-person field session at MU Jefferson Farm and Garden in Columbia.
Carey Portell’s next chapter
ST. JAMES, Mo. – A devastating 2010 car crash and a series of reconstructive surgeries spanning years reshaped cattle producer Carey Portell’s body and her future. Through the Missouri AgrAbility Project, Portell learned how to keep farming safely. And not only has she continued to farm, she has become an author, speaker and advocate.
Alpha-gal syndrome changes how we socialize
The rising number of Missourians diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is changing how individuals and families eat and socialize. Alpha-gal syndrome causes allergic reactions to red meat and other mammal-derived products.
Health, wellness contribute to farm safety
COLUMBIA, Mo. – During this year’s Ag Safety Awareness Program (ASAP) Week, March 2-6, University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch joins the American Farm Bureau Federation and other safety professionals in encouraging farmers to make their health and well-being a priority. Personal wellness directly supports farm safety and long-term farm success, Funkenbusch says.
Planning can ease holiday stress for those with allergies, health conditions
Holiday celebrations can be stressful for people managing food allergies or chronic health conditions. Travel can also add stress. MU Extension state specialist Karen Funkenbusch says that planning and open communication can reduce anxiety and help everyone enjoy the season.
Signs of stress you should watch for
When a farmer or farm family needs help, signs of stress are often slow to appear, but at other times may be quickly apparent, says Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri Extension assistant professor. However the symptoms appear, MU Extension offers resources to help farmers and their families.
5 ways to say no to stress
No. It’s a tiny word that can make a big difference, says MU Extension assistant professor Karen Funkenbusch. Yes. It’s another little word, one that causes stress, burnout and exhaustion. Learn when to say “no” and when to say “yes,” says Funkenbusch.
911 and 988: Numbers you need to know on the farm
Call 911 for emergencies and 988 for mental health support. Help is available 24/7 for farmers and their families.
Resources for Suicide Prevention Month
September is Suicide Prevention Month, and MU Extension has compiled resources to help break down barriers to mental health services for Missourians.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month
University of Missouri Extension has information and resources for individuals, families, caregivers and others.
10 workplace mental health tips
During Mental Health Awareness Month, two MU Extension specialists offer tips to help lighten the load for others.
High rate of suicide by firearm in NE Missouri being studied
Research in northeastern Missouri explores high firearm suicide rates and offers resources to support rural families and mental health awareness.
Don't fall victim to PTO accidents on the farm
Stay safe around farm machinery by preventing PTO accidents. Follow safety tips to avoid injuries and fatalities from spinning PTO shafts and moving parts.
Tips for reporting near misses and accidents on the farm
Learn how reporting farm accidents and near misses can prevent injuries and improve safety for all workers.
MU Extension offers tips on safely handling livestock
Learn safe livestock handling—use caution, read animal behavior, maintain equipment, and reduce risks during feeding and transport.
Teach teens about social networking dangers before fairs, conventions
Educate teens on social media risks before events. Discuss privacy settings and alerting trusted adults if they feel uncomfortable online.
Heatstroke can kill quickly in hot cars
COLUMBIA, Mo. – When the news has another tragic story about a child accidentally left in a hot car, parents might believe they could never make a mistake like that. “It’s not just negligent parents or indifferent caregivers. When juggling the demands of work, parenting and daily life, it’s easier than you might think to make a simple but fatal mistake,” says Karen Funkenbusch, University of Missouri Extension health and safety…
May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Show-Me Strong Farm Families
Supportive resources and guidance for coping with grief and loss, including emotional healing, mourning, and understanding the grieving process.
Rev up safety when riding ATVs
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Spring and riding ATVs seem to go together. However, ATV accidents can lead to tragedy when precautions are not followed, says University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch. ATVs can offer hours of fun in the days ahead when riders observe safety rules. She says it is important to teach young riders rules of the road and to teach by example.
MU Extension studies loneliness in rural areas
A study explores the link between isolation and mental health in rural communities, aiming to inform future interventions.
MFA Foundation gift supports rural mental health resources
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Missouri farmers and ranchers increasingly struggle with mental health challenges and access to resources. The state’s rural suicide rate is growing faster than in urban counties, increasing 78% between 2003 and 2017. With a four-year grant commitment from the MFA Foundation, University of Missouri Extension will have new avenues to support rural communities in need of mental health assistance.
Missouri farmers seeking rollover protection devices for tractors
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Since 2016, more than 70 Missouri farmers asked for help to install tractor rollover protection (ROP) devices from a national program that provides rebates, but the waiting list is long, and only one Missouri farmer has received assistance so far.