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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.
Ornamental vining plants often are overlooked as a way to screen unpleasant views while adding beauty to a landscape, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
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.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – If you think autumn is the time to pack up your gardening tools, think again. Fall is bulb-planting time.
Narcissus, tulips and hyacinths won’t greet you in the spring if they’re not planted in the fall.
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 4-H is expanding its after-school and STEM programming this school year, giving more local youths the chance to learn by doing, explore new interests and build skills they can use both in school and throughout life.
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. – Missouri soybean growers should be alert for red crown rot (RCR) in 2026, says University of Missouri Extension state plant pathologist Mandy Bish. The soilborne pathogen was confirmed in nine Missouri counties during the 2025 growing season after its initial detection in Marion…
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.
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…
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.
Learn about Missouri's Turnip Day tradition, its historical roots, and tips for planting turnips in late July for a fall harvest.
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.
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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 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.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – A small, hard-to-spot insect is making a big entrance in Missouri.
New tool helps farmers decide if harvesting wheat for silage or grain gives the best value based on yield and costs.
NOVELTY, Mo. – Heavy rainfall is becoming more frequent across Missouri, leaving producers dealing with saturated soils, ponded fields and flooding even before the 2026 growing season began.
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.
Learn to identify unhealthy stress and depression signs, along with effective strategies for managing stress and seeking help. Get support when needed.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Midwesterners are all too familiar with scorching summers. While midsummer doesn’t offer the vivid floral displays of spring shrubs, great options are available, said University of Missouri Extension horticulturist David Trinklein.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – When the power goes out, the clock starts ticking on the safety of your refrigerated and frozen foods.
Most gardeners know the frustration of having a beautiful garden decimated by wildlife. Just like people, deer and other critters are drawn to food that is tasty and convenient. A garden is wildlife’s equivalent of a fast food drive-thru.
That's a question many small business owners ask themselves way too often. In other articles, I have written about balance sheets and income statements as financial tools to help entrepreneurs manage their businesses.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Are you dreaming of a white Christmas? If you live in Missouri, you might need to adjust your expectations.The official definition of a white Christmas is an inch or more of snow on the ground on Christmas Day, said Pat Guinan, climatologist for University of Missouri Extension’s…
Understand how agriculture affects food, economy, and daily life, making awareness important for every community member.
Unseasonable blooms occur as plants respond to hot, dry weather and fluctuating fall temperatures.
Rotational grazing promises healthier pastures and higher returns, but labor, water limits and rigid plans often derail it. MU Extension forage specialist Carson Roberts explains why it fails—and how smarter rotations, better water access and flexibility can make it work.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Many Americans recognize that relationships with neighbors are different today than 20 or 30 years ago.
Excerpted from the Environmental Impact of Missouri Crop Production report
ROCK PORT, Mo. - The landscape in northwest Missouri is changing. Scattered across three counties, 75 turbines spin to harvest the wind.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Roadway accidents and combine fires make harvest the most dangerous time of the year for those who work in America’s most dangerous occupation – farming, says University of Missouri Extension health and safety specialist Karen Funkenbusch.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Plant injury due to the off-target movement of herbicides such as dicamba and 2,4-D is one of the challenges to the production of specialty crops.
MARSHFIELD, Mo.– While you wait for the spring thaw, consider testing your home for harmful radon gas, says Bob Schultheis, a University of Missouri Extension natural resource engineering specialist.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Winter can wear on cars and trucks, but a little preparation will keep vehicles running well throughout its coldest days.
MARSHFIELD, Mo. – Winter weather is hard on cars and trucks, but a little preparation will keep vehicles running well throughout winter’s coldest days.
Discover ways to enjoy citrus fruits during winter, from canning to drying, and explore creative recipes like marmalades and citrus peel treats.
KIRKSVILLE, Mo. – Winter is the time for livestock producers to prepare pastures for drought, says University of Missouri Extension state forage specialist Harley Naumann.
COLUMBIA, Mo. – Severe winter weather can bring widespread power outages, which means many Missouri families might be firing up their generators. University of Missouri Extension emergency management specialist Eric Evans urges people to use common sense when using a generator.