[current-page:query:topics] : [current-page:query:type]
Winter grain mites, an unusual pest, have appeared in southwestern Missouri wheat fields, potentially affecting crop health.
Discover how high tunnels let farmers grow and harvest fresh vegetables through winter while boosting income and sustainability.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If you’ve ever seen a cow suddenly collapse in early spring, seemingly out of nowhere, you might have witnessed a case of grass tetany, says University of Missouri Extension state beef nutritionist Eric Bailey.
Celebrating statewide business development teams and staff for exceptional performance in small business, procurement and trade assistance.
Editorial by Marshall Stewart, vice chancellor for extension and engagement and chief engagement officer for UM System.
MARSHFIELD, Mo. – Holiday decorating season is here, and that means hauling out ladders to place holiday cheer throughout the home and yard.
A ladder seems like such a simple tool, but ladder accidents are far too common and can happen in the blink of an eye.
NEVADA, Mo. – “I brought it up to test.” University of Missouri Extension agronomist Pat Miller often hears that when farmers talk about crop fertilizer applications.
“I do not think it means what you think it means,” Miller says, quoting the movie “The Princess Bride.”
SNAP-Ed ends Oct 1, 2025; MU Extension shifts focus to new health education initiatives statewide.
FORSYTH, Mo. — University of Missouri Extension recently released updated Missouri Beef Cattle Enterprise Budgets, which provide new estimates of income and expenses for 2026.
Livestock producers now have more flexibility under recent updates to USDA’s Livestock Risk Protection (LRP) program, which helps safeguard against unexpected price declines in feeder cattle, fed cattle and swine markets. MU Extension has updated its publication on LRP to reflect the most recent…
It isn’t common to see women and minorities who own a supply distribution company, but Kayla Dennis wants to change that. As a first-generation entrepreneur, Dennis refuses to shy away from challenges.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension economists urge farmers to complete the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2017 Census of Agriculture. The census should arrive in farmers’ mailboxes in December. It can be returned by mail or securely submitted online.
Every few years, Missouri gets enough rain to cause extensive flooding from the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers. In the spring of 2019, precipitation caused flooding to easily pass federal flooding thresholds, and large amounts of damage to occur.
Compared to other parts of the agricultural community, graziers of cattle depend less on fossil fuel and more on solar energy to turn a natural resource like grass into a sellable commodity, says University of Missouri Extension agronomist Tim Schnakenberg. Graziers can save on operating expenses…
Learn key tips for safely hiring tree care professionals to protect your property and avoid costly mistakes.
STOCKTON, Mo. – “Postweaning calf performance is important to cow-calf operators and future calf owners,” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist. Optimum performance is achieved by reducing weaning stress.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If you’re in the market for a car that will save you money at the pump, looking at miles per gallon may not be the best way to compare fuel efficiency, says a University of Missouri Extension financial planning specialist.
LAMAR, Mo. – The doorbell rings. Ghosties and ghoulies shout “Trick or treat!” as you open the door. They reach toward you with bags and containers, waiting for the bounty you are about to bestow. Though candy is the typical Halloween fare, you can hand out a healthier ransom.
STOCKTON, Mo. – If not managed properly, muddy pastures can affect grazing the rest of the year, says University of Missouri Extension regional livestock specialist Patrick Davis.
STOCKTON, Mo. – “Cattle producers welcome the rain, but it leads to muddy pastures and proper management is needed for optimum grazing the rest of the year,” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist.
BLOOMFIELD, Mo. – Heavy rains and rising rivers may flood wells. “Wells could be contaminated with bacteria, viruses or parasites that can make you ill,” said Van Ayers, a former University of Missouri Extension agriculture and rural development specialist.
Use basic math and a forage-budget worksheet to calculate baleage production costs—seed, fuel, labor, equipment—and compare making feed versus buying.
Learn how the spray-wait-spray method can renovate drought-hit pastures with nontoxic fescue efficiently.
STOCKTON, Mo. – “Summer annuals are a good way to add diversity and build pasture stands for the upcoming grazing season,” says Patrick Davis, University of Missouri Extension livestock field specialist.
In this video news story, University of Missouri researchers use GPS technology to understand the complexities of a cow's appetite. This knowledge may help livestock producers graze cattle more efficiently.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. – Farmers have long used poultry litter as a source of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. A ton of poultry litter contains roughly 55 pounds of nitrogen, 55 pounds of phosphate and 45 pounds of potash. Buying these nutrients in commercial form would cost about $75 at today’s…
Learn how trellis systems help home vineyards save space, simplify pruning, and boost grape growth for fresh fruit and wine.
Many small businesses have their own website now. In fact, it is often the first marketing tool used by owners to help increase sales over traditional marketing efforts. Unfortunately, many websites, once hosted, are never changed or updated to keep attracting repeat traffic to the site.
Tips for arranging care of your indoor and outdoor plants while you’re away on vacation.
The summer is almost here and that usually means families hit the road. But with high gas prices and a sluggish economy, many are having second thoughts about this year's vacation. Yet family fun doesn't have to break the bank. Learn how in this video news story.
Vaccines are safe and effective tools for preventing the spread of diseases that are shared person to person. The American Association of Immunologists reminds us that each August we celebrate National Immunization Awareness Month to let everyone know which vaccines to get and how often. Some shots…
An accountant turned contractor launched his own firm in 2008. With PTAC’s support, it grew over a decade toward a $50 million trajectory.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– Research has shown that vegetative buffers are very good at controlling sediment and keeping it out of waterways. But what about reducing herbicides?
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–The deer-hunting season brings venison to the table in many households. From a nutritional perspective, it’s a good choice, says a University of Missouri Extension nutrition specialist.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension regional horticulture specialist James Quinn talked about side ventilation in high tunnels at a recent workshop at MU’s Bradford Research and Extension Center.
Vernon County 4-H Alumni Association received the Naomi Crouch Award for over a decade of volunteer service supporting youth and community.
Veterans and urban farmers collaborate in St. Louis to grow fresh produce, build community, and support mental well-being through agriculture.
Veterans find healing and purpose through beekeeping, gaining skills, camaraderie, and income with the Heroes to Hives program.
Service-disabled veteran-owned full-service general contractor securing nearly $2 million in federal contracts with 11 employees and ~$3 million revenue.
Starting June 11, 2023, certain livestock antibiotics will require a veterinary prescription, ending over-the-counter sales. Plan ahead with a vet.
LAMAR, Mo. – When COVID-19 paused face-to-face programming, University of Missouri Extension agronomy specialist Jill Scheidt knew producers would still need assistance with the growing season. Living by MU Extension’s mission of taking university research and knowledge to the people, Scheidt began…
Volunteer Master Gardeners share gardening knowledge through workshops and projects, creating more than $5 million in annual economic value.
Volunteers help track water clarity and nutrients in Missouri’s lakes, providing vital data to protect ecosystems and local communities.
Missouri 4-H honors volunteers whose dedication shapes youth leadership and growth through service, mentorship, and recognition awards
More than 5,700 volunteers guide 4-H youth, helping them gain skills, confidence and resilience to be ready for leadership, careers and life.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – This summer, University of Missouri Extension’s Fire and Rescue Training Institute brought in 25 instructors for a train-the-trainer class on the institute’s new virtual reality system.
Measuring waist size can reveal diabetes risk more accurately than BMI. Larger waistlines raise chances of insulin resistance and prediabetes.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If you’re thinking of reseeding your lawn now that warm weather has arrived, think again.
Ancient Greek physician Hippocrates (known as the father of Western medicine) once said, “Walking is man’s best medicine.” What a relatively simple and inexpensive “pill to take” to make such a big impact on maintaining and improving our health.
An 8-week program to improve strength, balance, and flexibility for older adults, promoting independence and reducing fall risks. Learn more through this class.
Lila Wantland judged herself to the top of the senior division of the Missouri State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest. The contest was held Aug. 17 at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Wantland was the high individual in the intermediate division of the state contest in 2018.
SEDALIA, Mo. – The State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest looked somewhat different this year, but Lila Wantland remained consistent and led the field in dominating fashion at the Aug. 22 event held at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Wantland repeated her 2019 win, following up 2018 and 2017 victories…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – People outdoors for prolonged periods are at risk of hypothermia even on warm winter days, said a University of Missouri safety specialist.“People relate hypothermia to subzero temperatures or falling through thin ice into freezing water,” said Karen Funkenbusch.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Moisture and rising temperatures can turn parts of your home into ideal sites for mold growth, said a University of Missouri Extension housing and environmental design specialist.
Warm, wet weather helps dog vomit slime mold grow on mulch, harmless but curious in appearance.
Warm-season grasses boost wildlife habitat and provide resilient summer forage for cattle on Missouri farms.
Warren County teens showcased teamwork and creativity in a Memphis food pantry challenge, preparing dishes with surprise ingredients.
A Warren County student earned a $2,000 dairy scholarship to support studies in agronomy, bovine nutrition, reproduction, and dairy-industry leadership.
Warrensburg R6 Adventure Club provides children with stability, support, and a sense of belonging through holistic development and community engagement.
Mora Technologies in Warrensburg helps industries modernize with automation, robotics, and smart systems, building a strong team for future growth.
SHELBINA, Mo. – It was like any other day in the 40-plus years that Kent Blades had been farming. A lifelong Monroe County farmer, Blades was driving from one part of the farm to another when a semi-truck passed him and struck his John Deere open-station 5520 tractor as he was making a left…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The soybean tentiform leafminer (STL) moth is no bigger than George Washington’s nose on a quarter.
But don’t underestimate it, says Ivair Valmorbida, University of Missouri Extension state field crops and forage entomologist.
Poison hemlock is highly toxic to livestock and humans. Learn how to identify, control, and prevent risks from this dangerous plant.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Something’s been stinking in Missouri soybean, corn and cotton crops since the 1990s.
University of Missouri Extension state field crops and forage entomologist Ivair Valmorbida says stink bugs feed on a variety of plant species, including corn and soybeans.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Atrazine, one of farmers’ least expensive and most effective chemicals for weed control, is under the magnifying glass.
Excerpted from the Environmental Impact of Missouri Crop Production report
During drought, water plants deeply and wisely to help them survive dry spells. Follow expert tips for effective watering.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – This is the time of year when cattle producers need to pay extra attention to heat stress in their operations, says University of Missouri Extension beef specialist Eric Bailey.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- When a neighbor receives a kind note from us, especially if it is handwritten, they feel like the writer has a deeper desire to serve them or connect.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– In the war between waterhemp and producers, waterhemp is winning, says a University of Missouri Extension state weed scientist.
Waterlilies may look delicate but they are hardy and rewarding plants. With sunlight and still water, even beginners can grow them successfully.
Florida watermelon grower Bob Stewart is finding northeastern Missouri ripe for growing what Monroe County-born author Mark Twain called the “food of angels.” Stewart, owner of GID Farms of Immokalee, Florida, grew 6 million pounds of watermelon on 150 rented acres near Monroe City this past season…
COLUMBIA, Mo. – July, National Watermelon Month, is the time to celebrate this thirst-quenching, vitamin-rich garden delight.
Mark Twain wrote that one who has tasted watermelon “knows what the angels eat.”
GREENVILLE, Mo. – “So, if the thrill of counting Easter eggs has faded and sightings of neighborhood bears in windows have become less frequent, would you be up for a new adventure?” asks Kelley Brent, county engagement specialist in nutrition and health for University of Missouri Extension in…
BUTLER, Mo. – It won’t be long before pint-sized Princess Elsas, Star Wars characters and Minions run through neighborhoods threatening tricks and demanding treats.Halloween doesn’t have to be a complete sugar-overload holiday. There are simple things that parents can do to keep it fun and healthy.
Upgraded weather stations with soil moisture sensors will improve forecasts and planning for floods and drought across Missouri.
Weed electrocution offers a promising solution to herbicide-resistant weeds. Research shows it effectively controls waterhemp and reduces seed viability.
Obviously, our season so far has been one for the books. Our state climatologist Pat Guinan tells us that last month was the wettest May on record ever! We’ve been fielding a number of questions over the past several weeks related to the wet weather and how this affects our herbicides and weed…
The Weekly Garden Hour returns with expert advice on lawn care, gardening, diseases, and insects. Join free virtual sessions every Wednesday at noon.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – The high price of eggs and egg shortages in some places have led some consumers to seek out other sources of protein.
COLUMBIA, Mo.– If you use well water for cooking and drinking, you should regularly test the water for contamination, says a University of Missouri Extension water quality specialist.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo. - Wet conditions make tomato plants susceptible to devastating diseases such as early blight and Septoria leaf spot. Now is the time to combat them in the vegetable garden, said a University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist.
Rain boosts mole activity as they tunnel for earthworms, leaving damage in lawns. Learn effective methods to manage and control them.
Cold, wet weather and hail are damaging Missouri corn, soybeans, and wheat. Learn causes, risks, and steps to assess crop injury and recovery.
download this article
It’s been wet over the whole state of Missouri. Since October, really, but especially in May.
We are beginning our fifth year of monitoring inversions in Missouri.
If canned foods freeze, check that jars are sealed. If seals are intact, they're safe but may be softer. Unsealed jars should be discarded.
Learn how to calculate the cost of baling wheat straw by weighing nutrient value, soil impacts, baling charges, and profit margins for fair pricing.
Learn strategies to stretch hay, use supplements, and manage cattle efficiently during a winter hay shortage.
Guard your garden from deer, squirrels and groundhogs with natural sprays, noise or visual tricks—or by adding fencing for reliable protection.
Tips for feeding cattle during low hay supplies, including alternative feeds and strategies to reduce costs and maintain herd health.
BLUE SPRINGS, Mo.–Success in the vegetable garden hinges on healthy plants.
LAMAR, Mo. — Selecting the right sunscreen involves more than picking the product with highest SPF number, notes a University of Missouri Extension nutrition and health education specialist.“Many of us use sunscreen, but the options can be confusing,” said Tammy Roberts.
New tool helps farmers decide if harvesting wheat for silage or grain gives the best value based on yield and costs.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – So far, it’s a bad hay year. Cool weather, lack of sun and dry soil slowed grass growth.Dry matter per acre is about one-third of what we expect this time of year, says Rob Kallenbach, University of Missouri Extension forage agronomist.He spoke to regional extension specialists in a…
Fall is an ideal time to establish hydrangeas in the landscape. Several species grow well in Missouri.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – At the right price, wheat middlings are a good source of protein, fiber and phosphorus for livestock, says University of Missouri Extension livestock specialist Kendra Graham.
Researchers developed a method to remove defective sperm from artificial insemination samples, improving fertility rates and reducing costs in cattle breeding.