Livestock & Forage Media
Lime Applications for Pastures Audio
Correcting soil acidity is important for pasture productivity, keeping legumes in the species mix and animal health and performance.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Sept 22,2023
Animal ID-Methods News Column Audio
Examples of two numbering systems that can be used on ear tags. The white bull in the back is the 56th calf born in 2009 whereas the crossbred cow in the front is the second calf from the 2005 calf crop. The cow was born into the herd while the bull was purchased from another breeder.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Sept 15,2023
Animal ID- Numbering Audio
Optimize production and profitability? Use individual animal identification for management decisions and tracking health records. Finding the right numbering code system, and using it consistently is key to record management.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Sept 8,2023
Winter Water System Audio
As livestock producers, managing herds in freezing temperatures can really make you dread the weather forecast. Now is the time to make sure watering systems are set up for full time access to clean, drinkable water.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 25,2023
Soil Sampling Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- Aug 25, 2023
Preconditioning Program Audio
Producers managing weaned cattle recognize the stress of the event and its components, shipping, co-mingling, new feeds, and so on, creating a perfect storm for production loss and disease risk. Preconditioning programs reduce the number of stressful situations a calf has to deal with at a time while moving through the phases of the industry.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 25,2023
Forage Analysis Audio
The most basic information needed to develop a ration from a specific feedstuff are dry matter or moisture, crude protein, and an estimate of the energy content.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 14,2023
Cyanide in Grass? News Column
The phenomenon of prussic acid and its cautionary tale are well documented. Also known as hydrocyanic acid or hydrogen cyanide, certain weather conditions create this problem in some types of grasses; sorghum, sudangrass, sorghum-sudan hybrids, johnsongrass and other fast-growing forages.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 14,2023
Managing Pinkeye Audio
Pinkeye is a costly disease for producers during the summer and early fall. Understanding can go a long way in reducing pain and discomfort.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 10,2023
Keeping Stock Tanks Clean Audio
A clean stock tank with high-quality water promotes healthy livestock.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Aug 2,2023
Beat The Heat News Column
Keeping chickens cool during hot, summer days can be a challenge. To stay cool during hot weather chickens, need shade, water, and a well-ventilated chicken coop. Shade can be provided in a variety of ways including trees or building shade structures.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 31, 2023
Rabies & Livestock Audio
Everyone is familiar with the story “Old Yeller,” and the tragedy that struck a beloved pet. To my bafflement, I recently learned that rabies could present in many forms, not just the famed furious form, foaming mouth and furious rage.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 28,2023
Swine External Pest News Column Audio
External parasites not only annoy livestock, but also limit production. Damage to swine includes open wounds and skin irritations causing stress and discomfort.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-July 21, 2023
Tick Control Audio
Ticks transmit many microbial disease agents to livestock and companion animals. They can be debilitating and sometimes fatal to the host.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-July 13, 2023
Early Weaning Audio
Dry conditions and high temperatures have producers scratching their heads about how to keep critters fed without breaking the bank. One option is to early wean calves.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-July 5, 2023
Pricing Hay Audio
Hay production is one of the largest and most economically significant ag enterprises in Kansas. With the wide variances of size and quality producers and consumers are left to question the true value of hay they seek to sell or purchase. This ultimately leaves both parties searching for a reasonable price point to achieve a profit or minimize cost.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-June 30, 2023
Body Condition Scoring Goats & Sheep News Column
Body condition scoring is a great tool to use to determine how thin or fat goats and sheep are and if the amount they are being fed needs to be adjusted not only before breeding, but at any time of year. Body condition refers to the fleshiness of an animal, and with a little practice body condition scoring is a quick and easy method to determine how thin or fat goats and sheep are using a scoring system of one to five.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 29, 2023
Keeping Livestock Healthy News Column Audio
Vaccination is one tool to prevent disease; it’s risk mitigation for producers to protect their livelihood from disease.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-June 23, 2023
Summer Annual Forages Audio
One great thrill for this time of year is seeing lush warm season grasses. With last year’s drought, those previously lush pastures are not quite as inspiring. There are some options for pastures that just need to get through this season to rebuild in the fall.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-June 15, 2023
Feeding Frequency Audio
Producers looking to cut operational costs but maintain performance can consider modifying feeding frequency.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-June 2, 2023
Transporting Horses Audio
Transporting horses is a common practice in the equine world. Whether it's for a show, a move or a visit to the vet, horses need to be transported from one place to another. However, transporting horses can be a challenging task, requiring planning to ensure the safety of the animal.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-May 25, 2023
OTC Antibiotics News Column Audio
Changes in over-the-counter antibiotic availability will take effect by June 11, 2023. Antibiotics that have been available at most farm supply stores will now require a prescription. Examples are injectable penicillin, oxytetracycline and sulfa products. Producers who plan to continue using products like these will need a VCPR.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-May 18, 2023
Combat Lameness Audio
Dry conditions may lead to increased foot issues. Cracked skin between the toes, short abrasive stubble, thorns, rocky ground or even standing in ponds for long period of time can cause problems.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-May 11, 2023
Herbicide Considerations for Pastures Audio
There are three broad categories for pasture weed control, each requires plant knowledge of growth season and invasive tendencies, as well as effective control measures.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-May 5, 2023
To Spray or Not to Spray Column
At the risk of becoming lost in a psychological debate, I ask, “What is a weed?” Some would say a dandelion or bermudagrass are weeds since they can be a pain in the garden.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-May 1, 2023
Keeping Stock Tanks Clean Audio
A clean stock tank with high-quality water promotes healthy livestock. Drinking more water can mean more efficient forage consumption.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 28, 2023
Riding Season Biosecurity Audio
Biosecurity is a set of practices that are adopted to reduce the spread of disease. These practices are important when traveling with your horse. By bringing your horse to a new barn, arena or campsite, you’re increasing their risk of disease exposure. Conversely, you can increase the risk of exposure to horses back home when returning from a trip.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 20, 2023
Creep Feeding Calves Audio
Keeping a tight grip on feed costs is a priority for every beef producer. Creep feeding calves can be a good return on investment in certain situations.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 13, 2023
Using Prescribed Fire Audio
While the outcome from a wildfire can be similar to a prescribed fire, they are different. A prescribed fire has clear goals, similar to a doctor writing a prescription for a health condition.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 7, 2023
Understanding Fertilizer Rate Calculation Audio
Fertilizer rates are confusing to say the least. Urea does not equal actual nitrogen. Potash does not equal actual potassium.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-March 31, 2023
Brush Pile Burning News Column Audio
Spring is the prime time of year to manage brush piles.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-March 24, 2023
Controlling Common Internal Parasites Audio
Internal parasite control is a long-term continuous program. In horses, control is achieved by combining chemical treatment and management practices.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-March 17, 2023
Blackleg Audio
Blackleg is a preventable, soilborne disease of both cattle and sheep. In drought conditions, more soil is consumed,adhered to forage that goes into the mouth due to weakened root systems. Livestock frolicking on mounds from pond clean-outs will also consume soil.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-March 9, 2023
Copper Toxicity in Sheep Audio
Sheep are unique in that they accumulate copper in the liver more readily than other animals. So, they are very susceptible to copper poisoning.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-March 3, 2023
Concerns about Vitamin A Audio
There are many reasons for unthrifty calves. Right now, consider the cow’s Vitamin A requirement.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-February 24, 2023
Cold Temperature Management for Pigs Audio
Good animal husbandry, managing pig housing and heat loss can reduce the impact of cold stress on swine herd performance.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-February 17, 2023
Calf Scours Audio
Scours are only a symptom of underlying disease that plagues the animal.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-February 10, 2023
Chickens News Column Audio
Has the price of eggs made you think about raising chickens? Listen to this short report to learn more about them.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- February 3, 2023
Assesing Calf Vigor News Column Audio
An APGAR test for calves, like the one in human medicine, can give cattle producers a more defined protocol to mediate in a newborn’s life.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-February 3, 2023
Body Condition Scoring Audio
Looking at herd or flock body condition is a visual representation of the effectiveness of your nutritional program. Observing individual body condition scores allows you to sort animals with similar nutritional needs into management groups, or even to identify animals that should be culled because they do not fit your environment.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-January 27, 2023
Bull Buying - Predictions Audio
Expected progeny differences (EPD) are predictions of the genetic transmitting ability of a parent to its offspring. When DNA information is available, the accuracy of these expectations is improved, giving more reliability to an animal's EPD.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-January 6, 2023
First Milk Audio
Colostrum is the first milk that the newborn gets from its mother that contains a lot of immunity to set it up for the first several months of life. As soon as the little one starts drinking, it has 12-24 hours to absorb the colostrum for maximum effectiveness.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 13, 2023
Strategic or Survival Mode News Column Audio
A SWOT analysis; strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, are questions to set your operation, and yourself, up for success. The purpose of this exercise is to identify internal and external trends. It gives your team a chance to identify the physical and political climate of the farm business; maybe everyone is on the same page with the conservation strategy, but your son isn’t too keen on how the new hired hand does things.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 6, 2023
Land Leasing Workshop Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- December 30, 2022
Managing Feed Cost Audio
There’s an old saying “the best way to profit from land and livestock is to walk the crops off the farm”
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 30, 2022
Reindeer Audio
Reindeer are fascinating creatures.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 23, 2022
Horse Winterization Audio
Preparing for winter doesn’t look the same for each species of livestock. Horses do quite well in the cold. A three-sided shelter will provide protection from the elements and a clean place to lie down will help conserve body heat on a cold night. Ensuring proper diet, water intake and exercise level will help your horse stay healthy all winter long.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 16, 2022
More Energy Needed When Cold Audio
Weather can be one of the greatest challenges of managing animals during the winter. Lower temperatures, especially when the air is damp, increases energy needs.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 9, 2022
Prepping for Calving Season News Column Audio
One of my favorite times of year is calving season. While my herd is still a few months away from calving, it’s time to check equipment and make purchases before the year’s end.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 2, 2022
Working Facilities Audio
What would you suppose the best time of year would be to work on livestock handling facilities? The time of year that the facilities are not being used, and when you have time to put thought and effort into their design.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 22, 2022
Lice Audio
Not only can lice be the cause of animal torment and performance losses, but the critters also increase wear and tear on facilities and fences.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 18, 2022
Fescue News Column Audio
Tall fescue is a cool-season perennial. Did yours survive the drought? Fescue generally breaks dormancy when temperatures are consistently below 85 degrees and moisture is received.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 10, 2022
Concerns About Vitamin A Audio
Weak and unthrifty calves can be born due to a Vitamin A deficiency. Are your cows getting enough?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 4, 2022
Feeding Frequency Audio
Producers looking to cut operational costs but maintain cattle performance may consider modifying feeding frequency.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 28, 2022
Pl - BVD Audio
Calves with respiratory problems, cows that naturally terminate calves early, deformed calves and scours are just a few of the signs that a cow-calf producer may have Bovine Viral Diarrhea circulating in the herd.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 21, 2022
Watering Impacts from Drought News Column Audio
Maintaining a consistent and safe water supply for livestock is a big concern right now. Here are some considerations to go along with the strategizing.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 14,2022
How to Forage Sample Audio
Predicting forage quality values from standard books often grossly over under-estimates feeding value. A better way to determine feeding value is to have a representative forage sample tested by a laboratory.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 7,2022
Feeding in a Drought, Drought Dicussions News Column Audio
On September 26, there will be a Drought Discussions meeting for all livestock producers at the Cherryvale Community Center at 6pm. This is a responsive meeting due to forage shortage, continued drought and high feed costs. If adjustments after culling and early weaning are called for, this is a great opportunity to explore options with livestock experts.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 16,2022
Herd Performance Audio
Improving genetics in a herd or flock takes time. Herd performance evaluation is a tool to monitor improvement. The main traits to evaluate can be summed up in three points. Reproduction – is the female meeting the operation’s goals? Growth rate – are the offspring growing at an acceptable rate? And, composition – are the animals providing a satisfactory end product?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 9,2022
Replacement Heifer Decisions Audio
A key decision facing producers is raising or purchasing replacement heifers. Producers should evaluate the replacement female options separate from the rest of the herd.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 31,2022
Blue Green Alage News Column Audio
While the days have gotten a little cooler recently the hot, sunny weather that we had previously was the perfect combination for pond weeds and algae to grow. While all pond weeds and algae can become a nuisance and start to overtake a pond, requiring control, one type of algae is of particular concern and that is Blue-green algae.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 27, 2022
Forage Analysis- What Numbers Do I Need Audio
The most basic information needed to develop a ration from a specific feedstuff are dry matter or moisture, crude protein, and an estimate of the energy content.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 27,2022
Caramelized Hay Audio
Livestock will devour, even seek out, heat-damaged hay. Heat damaged hay, commonly known as caramelized, has a sweet-smelling aroma that appears slightly browned. But, are the nutrients still present after carmelization?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 19,2022
Comparing Feed News Column Audio
Feed prices are constantly changing. One may be more economical now, but not the best option at another time. All producers should know how to compare feed costs and balance least-cost rations.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 12,2022
Record Keeping Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 29,2022
Managing Pinkeye Audio
Pinkeye is a costly and painful disease. Understanding can go a long way in reducing pain and discomfort, as well as help the productivity of the operation.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 29,2022
Keeping Stock Tanks Clean News Column Audio
A clean stock tank with high-quality water promotes healthy livestock, but viruses, parasites and bacteria can thrive in tanks that are not properly cleaned.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 22,2022
Grazing Corn Stalks Audio
Advancements in equipment and technology have made it easier than ever to take livestock to feed instead of bringing the feed to them, which saves producers time and money.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 15,2022
Understanding Fertilizer Rate Calculation Audio
The concepts and common lingo can make fertilizer rate calculations confusing.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 8,2022
Preparing sheep and Goats for Breeding Season News Column
If you plan on breeding goats or sheep in the fall now is a good time to start planning for breeding season, and to evaluate your does and ewes to make sure they are in good condition before breeding.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 29,2022
Summer Fly Control Audio
A successful fly control program requires proper identification of the pests, determining the best control method and following label directions on the product to get optimum control and decrease the chance of resistance.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 28,2022
Ponds Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 24,2022
Tools for Pricing Hay News column Audio
What’s the price of hay right now? With the high input prices this season, it’s a real rodeo. Between high fuel, fertilizer and herbicide prices, it seems that harvesters are going to have to really know the value of driving equipment.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 24,2022
Poision Hemlock Audio
The good news: livestock typically won’t graze hemlock because of its unpalatability. The bad news: hemlock is more and more found in hayfields. Rolled up in a bale of hay, livestock is less able to avoid it.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 17,2022
Extending the Grazing Season Audio
The key is to extending your grazing season is to start with the existing forage base and always plan at least one season ahead.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 11,2022
Weaning Lambs & Kids Audio
Weaning time can be a stressful time for sheep and goats. Listen to this short report to learn how to make it less stressful.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 11,2022
Free Choice Mineral Audio
Free-choice salt and mineral is a great way to help your animals extract all the nutrients a pasture has to give. But mineral supplementation is not a one-size-fits-all proposition.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 2,2022
Blue Green Algea News Column Audio
Listen to this report to learn more about Blue green Algae and what to do if you find it on your pond.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 2,2022
Anaplasmosis Audio
Fly and tick season is here, which means it is time for producers to start watching their herds for signs of anaplasmosis.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 26,2022
Rabies & Livestock News Column Audio
Everyone is familiar with the story “Old Yeller,” and the tragedy that struck a beloved pet. To my bafflement, I recently learned that rabies could present in many forms, not just the famed furious form, foaming mouth and furious rage.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 20,2022
Culling in Summer Audio
Oftentimes, producers will cull cows in the fall, depending on the operation’s calving season. Mid- to late-summer can be a good time of year to early pregnancy check those females and cull any that are open or late bred.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 13,2022
Internal Parasites Audio
Late spring and summer are the times of year when populations of internal parasites living in pastures increase. This to this report to learn more are controlling internal parasites in your herd.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 13,2022
Managing Aquatic Plants News Column
While aquatic plants are a natural part of the aquatic ecosystem, it is common for them to become too prevalent and control efforts may need to be implemented. Although aquatic plants can be a problem if they are too abundant, not all aquatic plants are bad.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 5,2022
Goat Diseases Audio
If you raise goats it is important to be aware of the symptoms of common diseases goats can get. Listen to this short report to learn how to recognize these deiseases.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 5,2022
Keeping Stock Tanks Clean Audio
Keeping your stock tank clean can be a challenge in the summer. Warm summer temperatures, abundant sunlight, and nutrients mix together to create ideal conditions for algae growth.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 5,2022
Riding Season Biosecurity News Column Audio
For some, spring in the air creates anticipation of digging in the soil or processing calves and turning to summer pastures. For horse lovers, spring is getting into peak riding season. Adventures on horseback across the nation are being planned, but what happens when serious contagious disease threatens these plans?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 27,2022
Internal Parasites Audio
Warmer weather and rain create the perfect combination for internal parasites multiply in pastures, because of this it is important to have a management program to control and treat internal parasites in sheep and goats.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- April 27,2022
Management Strategies Audio
Livestock Risk Protection, LRP, is a low-cost livestock price insurance that makes payouts to replace income lost due to a price decline. This report discusses how LRP might fit with typical cow-calf management strategies.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 22,2022
Livestock Risk Protection Audio
Livestock Risk Protection, LRP, is a management tool for feeder cattle, fed cattle, lamb and swine producers. This type of policy makes payouts that replace income lost due to a price decline. Before purchasing, a producer has a bit of homework to do.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 15,2022
Managing Internal Parasites in Sheep and Goats News Column
Spring and summer are critical management periods for sheep and goat producers, with the warmer weather and increased rainfall making the perfect combination for internal parasites to thrive.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- April 8,2022
Grazing Rules of Thumb Audio
Studies have shown that when around half of the growing season’s top growth is removed, animal performance and vegetative production are at near optimum levels and performance can be sustained over a long period of time.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 8,2022
Avian Influenza News Column Audio
Flocks across the US have tested positive already in 2022. These reports are important reminders for poultry owners to be vigilant on biosecurity practices.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 31,2022
Chicken Coops Audio
When raising chickens, it is important to have secure shelter for the chickens to go into to be protected from predators and inclement weather.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- March 25,2022
Calf Scours Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 25,2022
Chickens Audio
If you are thinking about raising chickens listen to this short report!
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- March 17,2022
LRP Explained Audio
Livestock Risk Protection, or LRP, is an insurance product that pays out when market prices for feeder cattle are lower than expected.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 17,2022
Hedging Audio
Today most commodities are traded in futures markets. Local or cash prices are generally driven by futures prices, plus any differences in transportation costs and nearby markets. Future markets allow for “price discovery” when there are enough potential buyers and sellers willing to commit to purchase or sell a specific amount of a specific commodity at a future date.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 11,2022
Avian Influenza Biosecurity News Column
Reports of avian influenza in bird flocks are important reminders for small and large poultry producers to remain vigilant on biosecurity practices.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 7,2022
Nutrient Deficiencies on Calf Vitality Audio
For every month in storage, hay loses about 7 percent of its vitamin A content and the same thing occurs in trace mineral products that contain Vitamin A.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 4,2022
Mineral Supplementation Plan Audio
Winter supplementation often focuses heavily on meeting protein and energy requirements and tends to leave mineral nutrition as an afterthought. Missing the mark in any nutrient category, including vitamins or minerals, can have negative effects.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 24,2022
Price Risk Management Strategies Audio
All livestock producers manage price risk, even if they don’t have an explicit “price risk management strategy.” The three major strategies are self-insurance, marketing flexibility, and formal price risk tools.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 18,2022
What is Price Risk? Audio
Price risk is not about whether expected prices are high or low, but whether market prices are different than expected.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 12,2022
Risk Management for Producers News Column Audio
Insurance products are available to help producers manage forage risk and price risk by making payouts when a producer's local area is abnormally dry and when cattle prices are lower than expected.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 4,2022
Winter Water Systems Audio
As livestock producers, managing herds in freezing temperatures can really make you dread the weather forecast.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 28,2022
Horse Winterization Audio
Just because energy needs are increased due to low temps, it's not enough to just dump more grain out. For horses, hay is the best way to increase the amount of energy consumed.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 21,2022
Mud Management Audio
Some mornings, we are glad that the ground is frozen, just so we’re staying on top of the mud for a few hours. Today, I’d like to share a few ideas about what I call Mud Management.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 14,2022
Colostrum Audio
Listen to this report to learn why colostrum is so important for young animals that it is sometimes referred to as liquid gold.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- January 7, 2022
Winterizing your Horse News Column
Preparing for winter does not look the same for each species of livestock. Horses do quite well in the cold even if they live outside. A three-sided shelter will provide protection from the elements, and a clean place to lie down will help conserve body heat on a cold night.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 7,2022
Frostbite and Fertility Audio
The extreme temperature fluctuations have caused concern for livestock producers around fertility with spring breeding right around the corner. While the temperature will certainly raise eyebrows, the bigger concern is the wind chill, how living things feel the temperature.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 7,2022
Lice Audio
The USDA estimates that livestock producers lose up to one hundred twenty-five million dollars annually because of lice infestations. Not only can lice be the cause of direct animal performance losses, but also increases wear and tear on our facilities and fences.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 28, 2021
Preparing For Kidding Audio
This to this short report to learn about managing goats in late gestation.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- December 22, 2021
Carmelized Hay Audio
Heat damaged hay (caramelized) might be readily devoured by livestock, but the process actually damaged the available proteins! The critters might eat it well, but it’s not as nutritious as undamaged hay.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 22, 2021
Feeding Frequency Audio
Producers looking to cut operational costs but maintain performance can consider modifying feeding frequency. Is the price of delivery to the feed bunk compensated by time and expenses?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 17, 2021
Do I Need to add Minerals to My Livestock Ration? News Column
Winter supplementation often focuses heavily on meeting protein and energy requirements and tends to leave mineral nutrition as an afterthought. Missing the mark in any nutrient category, including vitamins or minerals, can have negative effects.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 10, 2021
Strategies For Working in the Cold Audio
While some industry employees are protected by OSHA regulations of safety in the workplace, livestock producers and ag workers are
often left to their own devices for safety.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 10, 2021
Mineral Supplementation Audio
Basic guidelines for winter mineral supplementation programs:
Always provide trace mineralized salt at a minimum.
- Supplement phosphorous when forage is dormant unless distiller’s grain is being used as a protein source.
- Supplement copper if deficiency symptoms are present but be sure to monitor status to ensure deficiency is solved without reaching toxic levels.
- Because commercial mineral and salt products are formulated to meet generalized conditions, it is helpful to create a custom-blended formula to meet local deficiencies or toxicities of a specific ranch.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 3, 2021
Bottle Feeding Calves Audio
Most cattle producers have had a calf that is no longer able to nurse its mama. Feeding a bottle multiple times a day can be rigorous.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 23, 2021
Preconditioning Calves Audio
A survey was published after asking cow/calf veterinarians about their recommendations for producers. It was evident from this survey that vaccine usage to avoid the spread of infectious disease within the herd is a very important management practice recommended for cow/calf operations. Other recommended practices are calfhood implants, de-worming, dehorning and castrating.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 19, 2021
Body Condition Scoring Winter News Column Audio
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a standardized method to gauge the condition of cattle? Or any animal species for that matter? Well, folks, let me tell you about the Body Condition Scoring Method.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 5, 2021
Forage Analysis Audio
The objective of testing feedstuffs is to improve our ability to meet the animal’s nutrient requirements and ultimately predict animal performance.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 5, 2021
Chicken Coops Audio
As the weather gets cooler it is important to have a warm shelter for your chickens. Listen to this short report to learn more about chicken coops.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- October 29, 2021
Prussic Acid Audio
The phenomenon of prussic acid and its cautionary tale are well documented. Sorghum, sudangrass and other fast-growing forages are common culprits. Thoughtful management of these forages can minimize poisoning risks and allow their safe use.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 29, 2021
Winter Water Systems Audio
As livestock producers, managing herds in freezing temperatures can really make you dread the weather forecast. Now is the time to make sure watering systems are set up for full time access to clean, drinkable water.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 22, 2021
Feeding Pumpkins to Livestock Article
As it nears the end of October you may be starting to think of what you can do with pumpkins that have been used for decorations once you are done with them or what to do with the pumpkins that were left sitting in the garden because they did not quite make the cut to be used as decorations or made into pie.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- October 19, 2021
Replacement Heifer Decision Article Audio
A key decision facing cattle producers is raising or purchasing replacement heifers. Producers should evaluate the replacement female venture separate from the rest of the cow/calf enterprise.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 16, 2021
Bull Management Audio
Bull management is an integral piece of profitability.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 8, 2021
Pl - BVD Audio
Calves with respiratory problems, cows that naturally terminate calves early, deformed calves and scours are just a few of the signs that a cow-calf producer may have Bovine Viral Diarrhea circulating in the herd.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 1, 2021
Wet Brewers Grain Audio
The protein, fiber and energy concentration of wet brewers grain make them a suitable supplement in both ruminant and nonruminant diets.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 24, 2021
Controlling Common Internal Parasites in Horses Audio
Managers can monitor the environment for internal parasites, especially when conditions are ripe for egg and larval development. Here are some tipa for non-chemical control of parasites:
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 10, 2021
Soil Sampling Audio
Having a soil test done and let you know if any fertilizer needs to be added to your food plot, garden, field, or pasture. Listen to this short report to get tips and information and how to do a soil sample.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- September 10, 2021
Weaning Strategies Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 10, 2021
Weaning Wisely Article
Weaning is stressful for calves, cows and people, and very likely the most stressful time in a calf’s life. We know the calf will have all it needs to survive and thrive, but the calf doesn’t know that yet. Just as with humans, less stress leads to more thriftiness and reduced illness.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 8, 2021
Winter Annuals with Bermudagrass Audio
Bermudagrass can be very productive for summer grazing. However, it has a relatively long period of winter dormancy and is often invaded by annual weedy species. Winter cereal crops such as wheat, rye and triticale produce high-quality forage during the time period that Bermudagrass is dormant.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 3, 2021
Breeding Season Audio
Breeding season is an important time for livestock producers. Ensuring animals are in good health going into breeding season will help ensure a successful kidding and lambing season come spring.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 27, 2021
After the Hunt -Cleaning and Handling Dove Article
Four species of dove are legal to hunt in Kansas. These species are mourning dove, Eurasian collared dove, ringed turtle-dove, and white-winged dove. Mourning doves are one of the most popular game birds in North America being hunted in 39 of the continental states, with an annual harvest more than all other bird species combined.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 27, 2021
Pond Monitoring Audio
A pond is a common and easy way to meet the need of suppling water to livestock. However, these water sources need to be monitored; it’s not a walk away situation. Livestock watering ponds need to be checked for cleanliness, sediment and vegetation.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 27, 2021
Understanding Pasture Fertility Article Audio
Fertilizer ratios indicate the percent of nutrients, by weight, in a particular fertilizer. Ratios are always given as the percent nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), followed by potassium (K). For example, a 10-10-20 fertilizer contains 10% N, 10% P and 20% K. Pulling out our producer calculator, this means that 100 pounds of this fertilizer will actually contain 10 pounds of nitrogen, 10 pounds of phosphorus and 20 pounds of potassium.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 20, 2021
Copper Toxicity in Sheep Audio
Sheep are unique in that they accumulate copper in the liver more readily than other animals. So, they are very susceptible to copper poisoning.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 13, 2021
Breeding Season Audio
Now is the time for sheep and goat producers to make plan for breeding season this fall if they haven't done so already. Listen to this short report to learn what to look for when evaluating the body condition of your sheep and goats in preparation for breeding season.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 6, 2021
Round Bale Storage Audio
Hay production is a thought-provoking industry, between forage quality and harvest timing, equipment, valuing strategies, cost of harvest, cost of storage, the list continues. I wonder how many farm family dinner conversations revolve around this topic. To focus on just one factor, economics of outside storage, here are some tips.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 6, 2021
Soil Sampling Article
If you are considering planting a winter food plot, knowing the nutrient levels of the soil before planting will help you determine if you need to add nutrients to the soil or not. Taking soil samples from your food plot and having them tested now will give you time to apply fertilizer if needed before planting.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 30, 2021
Culling in the Summer Audio
Mid- to late-summer can be a good time of year to early pregnancy check females and cull any that are open or late bred.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 30, 2021
Transporting Poultry Safely Article
Before hauling those champion fowl to shows, fairs or sales, understand the guidelines to prevent loss or disease.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 23, 2021
Vaccine Handling Part 2 Audio
Vaccines that have undergone temperature cycles above or below the recommended temperature will have reduced efficacy and may even be completely worthless due to deactivation. Don’t waste your money by not taking care of your vaccines.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 23, 2021
Aquatic Weeds Audio
Listen to this short report to learn more about aquatic weeds.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 16, 2021
Vaccine Handling Part 1 Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 16, 2021
Ponds Audio
While ponds provide water for livestock and habitat for fish year around, summertime is a great time to enjoy fishing or swimming in your pond. Listen to this short recording to learn more about pond management.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 9, 2021
Managing Feed Cost Audio
There’s an old saying “the best way to profit from land and livestock is to walk the crops off the farm.” Are there other ways to cut costs when feeding?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 9, 2021
Preparing Sheep and Goats for Breeding Season Article
Although it is still summer, fall will be here before we know it and with fall comes breeding season for sheep and goats. Now is the time to start making plans for breeding season and to evaluate your does and ewes to make sure they are in good condition before breeding, especially if you plan to breed them in August.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 2, 2021
Weaning Lambs and Kids Audio
Weaning time is a key time for sheep and goat producers. Listen to this short recording to learn more about management practices at weaning.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 2, 2021
Sericea Lespedeza Audio
Sericea lespedeza is in a vegetative growth stage and is rapidly growing. Within a couple of weeks, plants will begin to branch and become woodier. This plant is a major problem on rangelands and pastures across the state.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 2, 2021
Pullorum Testing Audio
The Kansas Poultry Disease Act of 1985 requires all hatcheries, hatchery supply flocks, and poultry entered in public exhibits to comply with the National Poultry Improvement Plan. This includes birds that attend county fairs.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 25, 2021
Blue Green Algae Audio
The warm summertime weather brings an increased chance of Blue green algae in ponds. Listen to this short report to learn more about it!
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 18, 2021
Livestock Water and Shade Requirements Article Audio
What offers refreshment on a hot summer day? Cool water? Resting in the shade? How much shade is needed?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 18, 2021
Aquatic Weed Control Audio
While vegetation in and around a pond is valuable for fish and wildlife habitat and can help reduce stream bank erosion. When vegetation grows too abundant it becomes weeds and control is needed. Listen to this short report to learn about aquatic weed management and control.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 11, 2021
Summer Fly Control Audio
Fly population have been steadily building and from now until fall we will see fly problems. Instituting some sort of fly control program like sprays, rubbers or fly tags, will help decrease fly populations that spend a lot of time on livestock.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 11, 2021
Blue-green Algae Article
Soon we will be experiencing warmer weather and as the weather starts to warm up, it is important to be on the lookout for Blue-green algae in ponds. Blue-green algae can occur in a pond as a result of runoff that carries nitrogen or phosphorus into the pond.
Adaven Scronse, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 3, 2021
Pricing Hay Audio
We are finally getting a break to get into the hayfield- but what’s coming out of the hay field? How should it be priced?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 3, 2021
Internal Parasites Audio
Warmer weather and rain create the perfect combination for internal parasites multiply in pastures, because of this it is important to have a management program to control and treat internal parasites in sheep and goats.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 28, 2021
Dehorning Audio Article
In late 2019, the American Association of Bovine Practitioners updated the guidance for dehorning practices.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 28, 2021
Sericea Lespedeza Audio
Sericea lespedeza is a major problem on rangelands and pastures across the state.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 21, 2021
Goat Diseases Article
In this recording we continue to discuss common goat diseases.
Adaven Scronse, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 14, 2021
Anaplasmosis Article
Fly and tick season is here, which means it is time for producers to start watching their herds for signs of anaplasmosis.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 14, 2021
Managing Aquatic Plants Article
While aquatic plants are a natural part of the aquatic ecosystem, it is common for them to become too prevalent and control efforts may need to be implemented. Although aquatic plants can be a problem if they are too abundant, not all aquatic plants are bad.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 7, 2021
Goat Diseases Audio
Listen to this short report to learn about common sheep and goat disease.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 7, 2021
Poison Hemlock Audio
Poison Hemlock is invasive and highly toxic to both humans and livestock. Commonly found in fencerows, creeks and, increasingly, in pastures and hayfields.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 7, 2021
PI- BVD Article Audio
Calves with respiratory problems, cows that naturally terminate calves early, deformed calves and scours are just a few of the signs that a cow-calf producer may have Bovine Viral Diarrhea circulating in the herd.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 30, 2021
Cleaning Feeding Sites Audio
Producers have a couple of options for cleaning pens and feeding sites.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 23, 2021
Vaccine Handling 2021 part 2 Audio
Vaccines that have undergone temperature cycles above or below the recommended temperature will have reduced efficacy and may even be completely worthless due to deactivation. Don’t waste your money by not taking care of your vaccines.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 16, 2021
Managing Internal Parasites in Sheep & Goats Article
Spring and summer are critical management periods for sheep and goat producers, with the warmer weather and increased rainfall making the perfect combination for internal parasites to thrive...
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- April 9, 2021
Chicken Coops Audio
If you are considering raising chickens having secure housing that protects them from predators and provides them shelter from the weather is very important.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- April 9, 2021
Vaccine Handling part 1 Audio
We expect vaccines to protect against detrimental health problems, so they are pretty important. This importance calls for the care of vaccines to be a high priority, since improper handling can render the product useless and waste money.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 9, 2021
Chickens Audio
Listen to this short report to learn more about chickens and what to think about before getting your own chickens.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- April 2, 2021
Bottle Feeding Calves Article Audio
Most cattle producers have had a calf that is no longer able to nurse its mama. Feeding a bottle multiple times a day can be rigorous.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 2, 2021
Poultry Biosecurity Audio
When good biosecurity measurements are practiced daily, they will help protect poultry from infectious diseases. The best time to implement strong biosecurity is right from the start.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 25, 2021
Spring Pasture Thoughts Audio
Now is a good time to get plans going for weed management, plant disease management, as well as prepare for insect damage.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 19, 2021
Preparing to Raise Chickens Article
Spring is here and you may have heard chicks peeping the last time you were at your local farm store, and may be thinking about getting a few chicks yourself. Before going out and purchasing chicks there are a few questions you should first consider before you start raising chickens.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- March 12, 2021
Soil Sample Procedures Article
Accurate soil sampling leads to accurate fertilizer recommendations which gives pastures an appropriate dose of what the land actually needs.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 12, 2021
Risky Business Prevented Article
The impact of the cold weather experienced in the southeast Kansas area in early February will not be soon forgotten and will leave lingering effects. Livestock producers commonly prioritize more sensitive life, like newborns, over the pen of prized sires. But, if the pasture housing the sires lacked adequate bedding or wind protection, scrotal frostbite may not have been prevented.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 5, 2021
Calf Scours Audio
Calf diarrhea, also called scours, is a very costly problem for many producers.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 5, 2021
Frostbite and Fertility Audio
During normal winter conditions, frostbite is not a common problem in our area, but prolonged exposure to extreme cold and wind increases the occurrence of frostbite and could be a fertility problem.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Febuary 26, 2021
Strategies For Working Cattle in the Cold Audio
Did you know that there is a strategy for dressing in layers to prevent cold stress?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Febuary 19, 2021
The Importance of Bird Feeders Article
Birds are commonly seen flying through backyards, occasionally perching in a tree or on a fence and some may even choose to build nests in your backyard. Birds can be entertaining to watch and some people may desire to attract more birds to their yard or encourage birds to stay longer in their backyard for the enjoyment of bird watching.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Febuary 11, 2021
Cold Temperature Management for Pigs Audio
Pigs have a small range of comfortable temperatures. Outside of this range, stress occurs; reduced feed efficiency, stunted growth rates, or weight loss.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- Febuary 12, 2021
White Muscle Disease Audio
White Muscle Disease can affect the skeletal and cardiac muscles.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 5, 2021
Cattle Handling Audio Article
To get cattle to do what you want, it takes knowledge of animal behavior, access to good facilities, and proper handling techniques. All of this together adds up to cow sense!
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 29, 2021
Growing Replacement Heifers Audio
Growing heifers intended as beef herd replacement females need their nutritional needs met. Typically, the goal is for these heifers to reach puberty by the time they’re a yearling.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 22, 2021
More Energy Needed When Cold Audio
Most livestock producers appreciate that cold weather increases nutrient requirements. However, the more common questions are “When or under what conditions should we respond to a cold weather event?” or “How should we respond?”
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 15, 2021
Preparing for Kidding Season Article
It’s a new year and kidding season is right around the corner, or for some breeders it may have already began. If kidding has not already started for you, now is a good time to go through your supplies to make sure you have everything you may need and are ready for kidding season. Preparing for kidding season can vary a little bit depending on herd size.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- January 15, 2021
Mud Management Article Audio
Taking preventative measures to manage mud can save time. Bacteria thrive in mud, especially when organic materials are present, like manure, hay or old feed. Problems like footrot and scours run rampant in muddy conditions, even in low temperatures.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 8, 2021
Winter Feeding Sites Audio
Winter feeding of cattle is a necessary part of nearly all cow-calf operations. The area where cattle are fed hay or grain regularly should be given consideration.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 29, 2020
Cattle Facial Recognition Audio
The motivation behind finding a way to recognize and trace individual calves, through facial recognition, boils down to disease traceability. Contact tracing is not just for those with a Covid-19 positive test result.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 23, 2020
Raising Kids and Lambs Artificially Audio
One of the outcomes of having a high lambing or kidding percentage is that you will likely end up with some bottle babies.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 18,2020
Land Lease Surveys Audio Article
Recognizing the need for reliable, local lease information, the Wildcat District is conducting pasture and cropland lease surveys. These surveys will give us a closer look at the average dollar amount for lease agreements, as well as some of the arrangements that are working for landowners and renters.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 12,2020
Winter Water Systems Audio
There is nothing like a refreshing drink of water to hydrate the body, but what happens when the only available water is frozen?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- December 4,2020
How to Forage Sample Audio
Predicting forage quality values from standard books often grossly overestimates or underestimates feeding value. A better way to determine feeding value is to have a representative forage sample tested by a laboratory.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 20,2020
Cull Cows Audio
In most cattle herds, around 18% of the annual income is generated from cull cows. Removing select cattle from a herd can improve herd performance and profitability.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 20,2020
Tapeworms Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 13,2020
Grazing Management Audio
Grazing management is a strategy to optimize forage use and sustain animal performance. How often and how short individual plants are grazed will directly affect the health of forage species.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- November 6,2020
Cold Temperature Management for Pigs Audio
Cold Pigs are high maintenance
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 30,2020
Body Condition Scoring Method Audio
Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a standardized method to gauge the condition of cattle?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 23,2020
Feeding Pumpkins to Livestock Article
As it nears the end of October, you may be starting to think of what you can do with pumpkins that have been used for decorations once you are done with them or what to do with the pumpkins that were left sitting in the garden because they did not quite make the cut to be used as decorations or made into pie.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- October 23,2020
Chute-Side Cost Savings Article
A strong vaccination program can have a sizable impact on a herd, both in dollars spent and on the herd’s health. We expect a vaccine to protect animals from detrimental health problems due to infectious diseases. Given the importance of vaccines in an animal health program, proper handling is vital to ensure the product remains effective. Improper handling can render the product useless.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 15,2020
Raising Lambs and Kids Artificially Audio
One of the outcomes of having a high lambing or kidding percentage is that you will likely end up with some bottle babies.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 15,2020
Prussic Acid Audio
The onset of the first killing frost is getting nearer. We see the highest levels of prussic acid in new growth, new regrowth and within the first week of this frost. Prussic acid, also known as cyanide, is a concern with forage like sorghums and other related species, like johnsongrass or even corn stalks.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 9,2020
Copper Toxicity in Sheep Audio
Sheep are unique in that they accumulate copper in the liver more readily than other animals. So, they are very susceptible to copper poisoning.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- October 3,2020
Fall Liming Process Audio
Lime reactions in the soil is a time-dependent process. Fall applications take advantage of winter rainfall and allow 90-150 days for buffering of pH to occur within the soil profile.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 25,2020
Grazing Corn Stacks Article Audio
Advancements in equipment and technology have made it easier than ever to take livestock to feed instead of bringing feed to them.The husk and leaf diet of a harvested corn field will provide around 50 percent total digestible nutrients and about 5% crude protein.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 18,2020
Weaning Strategies Audio
Weaning is very likely the most stressful time in a calf’s life. We know the calf will have all it needs to survive, but the calf doesn’t know that yet. Two methods have rose to the top of the list of best weaning strategies to reduce stress; fenceline weaning and 2-stage weaning.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 11,2020
Planning A Horse Pasture Site Audio
Let’s discuss establishing a horse pasture today, something that takes time, patience and resources.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- September 4,2020
Creep Feeding Calves Audio
The overall income of cow calf enterprises is partially dependent on calf weaning weight. Outside of changing weaning dates, there are management strategies that can increase this factor.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 25,2020
Preparing Sheep and Goats for Breeding Season Audio Article
Fall is quickly approaching and with fall comes breeding season for sheep and goats. August is a good time to start making plans for breeding season, if you have not done so already, and to evaluate your does and ewes to make sure they are in good condition before breeding. Does and ewes that have good body condition are more likely to breed and successfully have lambs or kids in the spring.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 25,2020
Benefits of Cereals for Pastures Article
Bermudagrass is a common warm-season perennial forage found in southeast Kansas. It can be very productive for summer grazing, however, it has a relatively long period of winter dormancy and is often invaded by annual, weedy species. While these weedy species produce some forage, their production is sporadic and their quality short-lived.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 19,2020
Record Keeping for Sheep and Goats Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- August 19,2020
Winter Annuals With Bermuda Audio
Winter cereal crops, such as wheat or rye, produce high-quality forage during the time period that Bermudagrass is dormant. Because of higher utilization, cattle gains from rye interseeded into Bermudagrass are comparable to gains from rye grown in clean-tilled conditions, even though less forage is produced.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 19,2020
Meat Labeling Audio
What is the difference between ‘Organic’ and ‘Natural’ on our meat labels?
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 14,2020
Feeding Grain to Small Ruminants Audio
The decision to feed grain should be based on the nutritional needs of the animals and the economics of including grain in the feeding program.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- August 7,2020
How to Forage Sample Audio
Predicting forage quality values from standard books often grossly overestimates or underestimates feeding value. A better way to determine feeding value is to have a representative forage sample tested by a laboratory.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 24,2020
Wet Brewers Grain Audio
All breweries create byproducts, regardless of their size. Wet Brewers Grain byproducts cannot be used for human consumption but could be used as a protein and energy source for livestock.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 24,2020
Blue Green Algae Article
With the high summer temperatures, now is the time to be on the lookout for Blue-green algae in ponds. Blue-green algae can occur in a pond as a result of runoff that carries nitrogen or phosphorus into the pond. When the temperature reaches 75 degrees or higher the algae will grow and bloom.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 17,2020
Aquatic Weeds Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 17,2020
Keeping Pigs Cool Audio
Mature pigs are most comfortable when air temperatures are between 50-75°F. Once temperatures exceed 80°F, pigs over 100 pounds can very quickly move into a life-threatening level of heat stress.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 17,2020
Ponds Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 10,2020
Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Article Audio
Vesicular stomatitis virus was first confirmed in Butler County, KS on June 16, and it has spread to other counties, including Montgomery.Vesicular stomatitis does not normally kill affected animals, but it can cause economic losses for livestock producers by preventing animal movements and impacting international trade.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- July 9,2020
Weaning Lambs and Kids Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- July 2,2020
Summer Fly Control Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 2,2020
Round Bale Storage Losses Article Audio
Dry matter losses in large round bales can reach 50% depending on bale quality, storage conditions and length in storage.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 26,2020
Managing Aquatic Plants Article
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 19,2020
Blue Green Algea Audio
Adaven Scronce, diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 19,2020
Pasture Management By Season Audio
Pasture management can be a lot of work. Whether you want to improve your pastures or simply maintain them so that they stay lush and green for years to come, there are many steps to take.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 19,2020
Horse Hoof Care Audio
Horses are numerous throughout the area. Some are helpful ranch horses, some are companions for floks, and others are for recreation. Regardless of your horses' occupation, their feet need attention.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 12,2020
Aquatic Weed Control Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- June 11,2020
Sericea Lespedeza Audio
Across the Wildcat Extension District, sericea lespedeza is in a vegetative growth stage and is rapidly gaining size. By the end of June, plants will begin to branch and become woodier.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- June 5,2020
Extending The Grazing Season Article Audio
There are basically eight management practices to creating a longer grazing season: stockpiling a cool season forage, stockpiling a warm season forage, growing legumes, growing summer annual forage, growing winter annual forage, reducing hay losses in storage and reducing hay losses during feeding.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 28,2020
Goat Diseases Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 22,2020
Managing Internal Parasites in Sheep & Goats Article
Spring and summer are critical management periods for sheep and goat producers, with the warmer weather and increased rainfall making the perfect combination for internal parasites to thrive. This is also the time of year when spring lambs and kids are weaned, a stressful time for kids and lambs when they are more susceptible to internal parasites.
Pinkeye is a growing concern with summer heating up. Providing good fly control, preventing stress and overcrowding and separating infected animals from healthy ones will help prevent the spread of disease.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 22,2020
Raising Small Groups of Swine Audio
When done correctly, you can put pork in your freezer at a lower cost than what you would pay in the grocery store. Let’s go through some of the things you’ll need think about.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 15,2020
Internal Parasites Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- May 15,2020
Grazing Rules of Thumb Audio
Some rules of thumb have scientific data to support them; however, some of the rules of thumb may be unfounded and lack informational backing. Take Half and Leave Half; probably the most common and most important rule of thumb for rangeland managers to follow.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- May 8,2020
Anaplasmosis Audio
Anaplasmosis is a parasitic organism that is transmitted through blood by biting insects and ticks. This disease can be devastating to some herds if not treated properly or in a timely manner.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 30, 2020
Cleaning Feeding Sites Audio
Fecal bacteria present on winter feeding sites or in confined pens can survive in the manure and wasted feed sludge for several months.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 24,2020
Preparing to Raise Chickens Article
Spring is here and you may have heard the sound of chicks peeping the last time you were at the feed store. You may even be thinking about getting a few chicks yourself. Before going out and purchasing chicks there are a few questions you should first consider.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
-April 24,2020
Grass Founder in Horses Audio
One of the most common causes of founder can be the presence of lush, fresh grass in horse pasture.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 16, 2020
Grass Tetany Audio
Grass Tetany is a serious condition in cows and ewes, caused by low blood levels of magnesium, a problem when forages are growing quickly.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-April 17,2020
Chicken Coops Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- April 6, 2020
Livestock and Coronaviruses Article Audio
Infectious disease experts and multiple international and domestic human and animal health organizations agree there is no evidence at this point to indicate that pets become ill with COVID-19 or that they spread it to other animals, including people.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- April 1,2020
Chickens Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
-March 30, 2020
Safety At Birthing Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 20,2020
Feeding Market Goats and Lambs for Show Article
One of the most important parts of raising a successful market goat or lamb project for the county fair is the feed program. Not every feed program will work for every animal. Just like people, every animal is different. When determining the type of feed program that is right for your animal, you need to take into consideration; the weight limits of your show, the animals age, and the animals frame size.
Adaven Scronce, diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- March 16, 2020
Rabbits Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- March 9,2020
Spring Pasture Thoughts Audio
To combat pests like weeds, the first step is sometimes the hardest, identification of the problem. Proper ID is paramount to good (and cost effective) control.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- March 5, 2020
Livestock Gardians Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- March 2,2020
Horse BCS Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 28,2020
Vaccine Handling Audio
To protect your animals against infectious diseases, it is important to vaccinate not only at the right time, but with the right product. Properly handling the vaccine from the time it’s purchased to the time it’s given to the animals will ensure the best immunity.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 26, 2020
Meat Rabbits Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- March 24,2020
Horse Body Conditioning Scoring Audio
A body conditioning scoring system has served to provide a standard scoring system for the industry which can be used across breeds and by all hourse people
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 18, 2020
Burn Workshop Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- February 17,2020
Calf Scours Audio
Several pathogens can cause severe scours in calves. The impact of the germs is determined by the calf’s age and the integrity of its immune system.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 12, 2020
Controlled Burning Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- February 10, 2020
First Milk Important to Successful Birthing Experience Article Audio
There’s no better sight than watching a newborn get up and begin to nurse their mama. However, difficult deliveries, inexperienced dams and babies born without vigor sometimes keep that connection from happening.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- February 7, 2020
Cool Season Forage Intake Audio
Maximizing the forage that livestock managers have available is important for profitability.
- January 31, 2020
Lamb & Kidding Workshop Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- January 27,2020
Nutrient Deficiencies of Calf Vitality Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 24, 2020
Forage Analysis Audio
Greater profit is the primary reason livestock producers need to know the quality of forages they are feeding. Not knowing the forage's exact quality acts as a two-edged sword that can cut into profits either way it swings.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 23, 2020
Preparing for Kidding Season Article
It’s a new year and kidding season is right around the corner, or for some breeders it may have already began. If kidding has not already started for you, now is a good time to go through your supplies to make sure you have everything you may need and are ready for kidding season.
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resource Agent
- January 17, 2020
More Energy Needed When Cold Audio
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-January 17, 2020
Colostrum Audio
Adaven Scronce, Diversified Agriculture & Natural Resources Agent
- January 13,2020
More Energy Needed When Cold Audio
Most livestock producers appreciate that cold weather increases nutrient requirements. However, the more common questions are “When or under what conditions should we respond to a cold weather event?” or “How should we respond?”
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
- January 7, 2020
Feeding Moldy Hay Article
We are still seeing consequences from such a wet summer and difficult haying season. No matter how hard producers tried, hay was likely baled a little too wet and now has some mold.
Wendie Powell, Livestock Production Agent
-December 16,2019
Determining Pasture Lease Pricing Article
Perhaps the most popular question I receive throughout the year involves pasture leasing. Land is changing hands, landowners and tenants want to make sure they have up to date information to leasing arrangements, and frankly, there’s a lot of money that can be tied up in these situations.
- November 22, 2019
Recycling Pumpkins Article
Leaves are changing color, the air has gotten cooler, and some parts of Kansas have already gotten snow. October has turned into November and depending on the day it may seem like fall is already giving way to winter.
- November 11, 2019
Dealing with Foot Rot in Livestock Article
During the summer months we often treat lame livestock. The effects of lameness may show itself by decreased fertility, weight loss, decreased performance, and increased labor and medicine costs. It has been estimated that 88-92% of lameness stems from the foot.
- October 15, 2019
Soil Sampling Article
If you are considering planting a winter food plot, knowing the nutrient levels of the soil before planting will help you determine if you need to add nutrients to the soil or not. Soil tests provide a scientific base for evaluating the available plant nutrients in a field, garden, lawn, pasture, or food plot.
-October 9, 2019
Selecting a Winter Feeding Site Article
Winter feeding of cattle is a necessary part of nearly all cow-calf operations. The feeding site is the area that a producer will feed the cattle regularly, providing hay and sometimes grain or other supplements to provide the nutrients cattle need.
- September 25,2019
A Year for Baleage Article
There is likely going to be a lot more silage chopped this year. Many acres that were enrolled in prevented planting with their insurance or Farm Services Agency (FSA) after the last planting date needed a cover crop.
- September 9, 2019
Feed Sampling Standard Operating Procedures Article
Feed sampling is critical to proper nutritional management of cattle. The following is a list of standard practices to ensure an accurate, representative sample of stored forages and mixed diets.
- August 28, 2019
Preparing Sheep and Goats for Breeding Season Article
Fall is quickly approaching and with fall comes breeding season for sheep and goats. August is a good time to start making plans for breeding season, if you have not done so already, and to evaluate your does and ewes to make sure they are in good condition before breeding.
- August 13, 2019
Questions of Organic Matter Article
Soil organic matter is one of the oddest components of soil. Although it comprises a small percentage of total soil volume and weight, it completely changes the color, nutrient transfers, cation exchange capacity and water holding capacity.
- August 9, 2019
Blue- Green Algae Article
The high summer temperatures combined with the increased amount of runoff from rain has increased the risk of blue-green algae in ponds and lakes. Blue-green algae can occur in a pond as a result of runoff that carries nitrogen or phosphorus into the pond.
- July 15, 2019
Are forage Tests Important? Article
For nearly four decades, scientists have been refining the ability to test forages for quality. This research is being done in an effort to improve animal nutrition and, consequently, animal production.
-July 3,2019
Effective Weed Control Article
Thanks to the influx of rain our area has received, there are a lot of weeds everywhere. A weed is only a plant that is out of place. Bermudagrass may be a weed in a flower garden, but not in a pasture. Corn can be the desired plant in a field, but in a rock garden; it’s a weed.
-June 3, 2019
Defense of the Fence Article
Like all the other things that need to get done this time of year, so do fences often need to be built and repaired. It is a good idea to keep in mind Kansas fence laws when doing so.
- May 21, 2019
Avoid a Winter Hangover This Breeding Season Article
Winter has been long and difficult. Cold and wet weather increased energy demands. Cows could be thinner than normal after calving and winter conditions could have negatively influenced bull fertility as well.
-May 13, 2019
Making Beef Management Calendars Easier Article
Technology has been developed that makes many things in our lives much easier. Some of you may remember when you were the “remote control” when your Dad was watching TV. Now, new homes have heating, alarm and lighting systems throughout that can be controlled remotely with a smart phone.
-May 10, 2019
Scoring Meat Goats on Body Condition Article Audio
Every goat producer has animals that are either too thin or too fat. Failure to recognize these animals and take corrective actions will cost dearly in terms of decreased fertility, increased disease or internal parasite incidence, decreased milk production, and increased operating costs.
-April 10, 2019
A body conditioning scoring system has served to provide a standard scoring system for the industry which can be used across breeds and by all horse people.
