Neosho Puts Social Media Infrastructure in Place as Part of a Proactive Response to Potential Tornadoes

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

Sources: Rebecca Williams, Joplin Tornado Info, 417-501-5187, email at joplintornadoinfo@gmail.com; Wes Franklin, City of Neosho, 417-451-8050 or email at wfranklin@neoshomo.org.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Should Neosho ever be hit by a tornado, one source for rescue and recovery information is already on Facebook: Neosho Tornado Info.

The template used for the Neosho page was developed by community volunteers Rebecca and Genevieve Williams who set up Joplin Tornado Info when Joplin was hit in 2011. Then after the Joplin experience, Branson Tornado Info was set up by David Burton, a civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“I put the Branson page together just in case and then two months later we were using it in the Branson recovery,” said Burton. “That experience is causing other communities to think ahead.”

Individuals can be proactive and “like” Neosho Tornado Info now. Wes Franklin, spokesperson for the City of Neosho, said he is excited about this opportunity and pleased with the assistance he has received from the Williams and MU Extension.

“I think getting the Neosho page in place now is a great, proactive concept,” said Franklin. “Should a major weather event occur, Neosho residents will have a central online place to go to for information and to ask questions. By setting it up now, residents will hopefully already be aware of it.”

The page will also serve to make citizens aware of some of the other proactive steps the city and other local agencies are taking to prepare for a major storm event. The City of Neosho is already using a mass text message system to alert and inform residents of weather events. Citizens may sign up for the text alerts by going to the city website, neoshomo.org. The city has also recently established an internal text messaging system to coordinate with city employees in case of a major emergency.

Newton County Emergency Management has recently begun compiling a database of private safe rooms and residential storm shelters in Neosho and Newton County in order to better locate survivors following a natural disaster. Information about how to be placed on the list is one of the many things to be featured on the Neosho Tornado Info page.

Williams agrees that Neosho is to be commended for thinking ahead.

“Neosho is raising the bar for social media preparedness by getting a page and the infrastructure for it in place before something bad happens. The Joplin Tornado Info model and the guidelines outlined in the social media guide are being used to establish and build the online recovery community in advance of it being needed and launch the page,” said Williams.

University of Missouri Extension’s popular publication, “The Use of Social Media for Disaster Recovery” provided the framework for getting the Neosho Tornado Info page in place. The publication is available online for free download online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene. That publication outlines the things learned with the Joplin and Branson pages.

Since being posted online in March of 2012, the guide has been downloaded and printed over 15,000 times, used at FEMA trainings, and even distributed by Texas Governor Rick Perry to county emergency management personnel in Texas.

The guide has been profiled in national media and called “informative and useful” to anyone interested disaster recovery or creating a successful social media presence.

The free guide is written by Rebecca Williams and Genevieve Williams, creators of Joplin Tornado Info on Facebook, and David Burton, civic communication specialist for University of Missouri Extension and creator of Branson Tornado Info on Facebook.

The updated 32-page guide draws from experience with Joplin Tornado Info (47,000 followers) as well as the things learned when implemented with Branson Tornado Info (17,000 followers).

For speaking engagements or training opportunities about using social media in disaster recovery, contact the authors of this guide directly: Rebecca and Genevieve Williams at joplintornadoinfo@gmail.com and David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu.

Master Gardeners of the Ozark Present “Brown Bag Lunch” Garden Series; Next Session is June 4

Contact: Chrystal Irons, business development specialist
Tel: (417) 546-4431
E-mail: ironsc@missouri.edu

FORSYTH, Mo. -- The Master Gardeners of the Ozarks are presenting a series of gardening programs this summer to be held in the backyard of the Taney County MU Extension Center in Forsyth at the Master Gardener’s Native Plant Garden.

Various programs will be held on the first Tuesday of the month May through October beginning at noon. These programs are free and open to the public.

The May class was presented by one of our local Master Gardeners, Laurie McCann. She did an “Introduction to our Herb Garden” and also allowed the participants a chance to savor some samples of herbs and how to use them.

UPCOMING CLASSES

Tuesday, June 4: Linda Ellis, botanical and natural science illustrator and Master Gardener will present a class on “Native Landscaping.” She will give a walking tour of the native garden beds. Ellis is a dedicated “organic” gardener, and will be able to recommend plants for birds and butterflies.

Tuesday, July 2: Dr. Tom Riley, retired professor of entomology at the University of Louisiana, will explore the topic of insects in the garden. Dr. Riley will explore the gardens to identify insects and explain whether they are beneficial insects or pests. Attendees are invited to bring in insects or insect damage from their home gardens and he will attempt to identify them.

Tuesday, Aug. 6: Joe and Cathy Wolven will give a presentation on wild edibles. Learn
from these experts how to identify and use the plants in Mother Nature’s landscape.

Tuesday, Sept. 3: Joann Fisher will present “Blue Barrel Gardening.” Do you wish to garden, but find yourself low on space? Are you looking for new ways to garden? Join Fisher as she shows us how to re-purpose blue barrels to use for vegetables or flowers.

Tuesday, Oct. 1: “Harvesting and Preserving Your Herbs,” presented by Barb Emge, Master

Gardener and owner of the Red Barn Herb Farm in Republic. Emge will demonstrate preserving and using your harvest.

PACK A LUNCH

“Pack a lunch and come and join us in our garden for these free informative sessions,” said Master Gardener Marva Ramsey. “Though their hard work, grants and donations, the Master Gardeners of the Ozarks have provided the Taney County Extension Center with one of the most beautiful gardens in the county and they would like to share it with you.”

Classes will be held in the backyard of the Taney County Extension Center at 122 Felkins Avenue in Forsyth just down for the Taney County jail. For further information call the Taney County University of Missouri Extension Center at 417-546-4431.

Taney County 4-H Fair and Achievement Day is June 12 - 15 at Fairgrounds in Forsyth

Contact: Chrystal Irons, business development specialist
Tel: (417) 546-4431
E-mail: ironsc@missouri.edu

FORSYTH, Mo. – The 2013 Taney County 4-H Fair and Achievement Day is being held June 12-15 at the Taney County Fairgrounds in Forsyth.

Taney County 4-H Achievement Day begins at 6 p.m. on June 11. The evening of June 12 will showcase the rabbit and poultry shows. The goat show is planned for June 13 followed by the sheep show on June 14. Beef and dairy cattle will have a show on Saturday, June 15.

“The fair showcases the finest 4-H projects in Taney County this year,” said Chrystal Irons, the county program director for Taney County Extension.

A complete schedule of events for the 4-H Fair can be found by clicking the 4-H link on the Greene County Extension website at http://extension.missouri.edu/taney.

For information on 4-H contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists in southwest Missouri: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Amy Patillo in Howell County at (417) 256-2391; or Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500.

Ozark Empire Fair Hay Show Entries Due July 10

Contact: Eldon Cole, livestock specialist
Tel: (417) 466-3102
E-mail: colee@missouri.edu

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- A few farmers have been successful in putting up hay the last few days, but overall, the hay season in southwest Missouri is running late this year. It will be interesting to see what impact unusual weather this spring, including snow in May, had on area hay production according Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“The best way to analyze the weather factor is to test the hay. While you’re testing it you might as well enter it in the Ozark Empire Fair Hay Show,” said Cole.

The OEF show is designed to educate hay growers on the merits of testing forages. In addition, marketing of hay can be made easier when test results are known.

“Those entering the show have found it aids in the marketing process,” said Cole.

Requirements for entering the OEF hay show are as follows: Hay must be harvested in Missouri during 2013; both small, rectangular and large hay packages are accepted; no more than one entry per field per cutting will be accepted; entry deadline is July 10.

Entry forms are available at University of Missouri Extension Centers. Forms can also be obtained online at www.ozarkempirefair.com and under the “agriculture” link on the Greene County Extension website at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Extension specialists will arrange to collect the samples no later than July 15. An entry fee of $20 per sample is charged.

Samples are tested at Custom Laboratory Inc., Golden City. Test results will show crude protein, moisture level, energy expressed as total digestible nutrients (TDN) or net energy. A qualitative test will be run for nitrate. The test will be 60 percent of the final score.

The final evaluation of the hay will be done on July 25 at the Ozark Empire Fair. A judge will rate the entries on condition, purity, aroma and color, which makes up 40 percent of the final score.

“Consider having your hay sampled and tested. It can save supplement feed dollars and give you a better idea of what supplemental feed to purchase,” said Cole.

For more information, contact any of these MU Extension agronomy specialists in southwest Missouri: Tim Schnakenberg in Stone County, (417) 357-6812; Jill Scheidt in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; John Hobbs in McDonald County, (417) 223-4775 or Brie Menjoulet in Hickory County, (417) 745-6767.

Armyworms Spotted in Southwest Missouri Fescue Fields

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. – Armyworms were seen in southwest Missouri wheat and fescue fields this week in numbers anywhere from 1 to 7 armyworms per square foot according to Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with the University of Missouri Extension in Barton County.

Threshold levels for armyworm in fescue are 4-5 per square foot and before 2-3 percent of heads are clipped.

Scheidt made the discovery while scouting area fields on May 29 to prepare this week’s MU Extension field scouting report.

A very small amount of armyworm feeding was seen in corn fields. Control of armyworm in field corn is justified if 25 percent or more of corn seedlings are significantly damaged through foliage feeding by larvae.

SCOUTING

To scout for armyworms, find a thick area in field or pasture, armyworm moths lay eggs in thick areas first, then beat the heads together and look for armyworms on the ground. “It is best to scout at dusk or early morning, while feeding is taking place,” said Scheidt.

The rate of development for armyworms is temperature related, so it may be hastened by warm weather or slowed down by cool weather. It typically takes two to three weeks from the time the moth lays the egg until they have hatched and grown through the early instars.

Instar is a rating, or size that describes the development or maturity of the larvae. Larvae at the 3rd through 5th instar are the most destructive.

Larvae have a greenish brown body, nearly hairless, with a thin stripe down the center and two orange stripes along each side. Armyworms are identified by four pro-legs at the middle of their body.

According to Wayne Bailey, MU State Entomologist, fescue fields need to be scouted first. “Armyworms typically show up in fescue fields two weeks before they are in wheat fields,” said Bailey.

CONTROLLING

A rate of three to four ounces per acre of Mustang Max is the recommended control for fescue fields with a zero day harvest interval for hay, forage and grazing.

“Armyworms should be treated as soon as threshold levels are seen; armyworms can clip 50 percent of the heads in a pasture in one night when at threshold levels. Larger armyworms cause more damage than full grown armyworms,” said Scheidt.

Prolonged wet weather can be hard on the armyworm larvae by creating conditions whereby a fungus knocks down the population. They prefer cool weather and do not like sun and heat.

“There is also a wasp that can parasitize and kill the armyworm. This is a natural predator, but do not assume this will occur. It is important to check for parasitism when determining threshold levels for spraying. Look for mummified bodies of armyworms clinging to the plant stalks or laying in the plant debris on the ground,” said Scheidt.

MORE INFORMATION

The weekly field scouting report is sponsored by University of Missouri Extension and Barton County Extension.

For more information on this scouting report, or to learn how you can receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County at (417) 682-3579.

For more information about armyworms or to receive a copy of the Armyworms and their Controls guide go online to http://extension.missouri.edu/webster/webster/agric/armyworms-field.html

MU Extension’s “Healthily Ever After” Nutrition Program Visits Greene County Childcare Centers

Contact: Marty Wood, nutrition program associate
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: woodmart@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension’s statewide “Food Power Young Adventure — Healthily Ever After” visited three child care centers in Greene County the week of May 20.

Kraig Kensinger, an extension Associate with Food Power Young Adventure, brought the puppet show “Healthily Ever After” to 31 children at Hope Child Care Center in Republic, 68 children at Safe N Sound Playground Child Care Center in Springfield and 52 children at Campbell Small Wonders Child Care Center in Springfield.

Greene County Nutrition Program Associates, Marty Wood and Sherri Hull assisted with the puppet show as they had previously taught nutrition classes at the centers.

Kensingers’s presentation of “Healthily Ever After” engaged pre-school, kindergarten and first grade aged students in a lively learning 30-minute experience about food and physical activity.

“Through puppetry and music, students were introduced to nursery rhymes that teach about eating a variety of food, growing food, being physically active and washing hands. The Food Power Young Adventure Digest was provided to students to take home to share with their families,” said Wood.

“Healthily Ever After” nursery rhyme segments included Mother Goose teaching Humpty Dumpty to eat from all the food groups. Little Miss Muffet then tells the spider about foods from the milk group. Jack Be Nimble shows how much fun it is to be physically active. Mistress Mary grows tasty food in her garden. And One-Two-Buckle My Shoe focuses on washing hands to get rid of dirt and germs.

Food Power Young Adventure adds unique activities to the nutrition lessons already being presented in many child care centers by University of Missouri Extension nutrition educators.

Food Power Young Adventure is offered by University of Missouri Extension in cooperation with the Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri - Columbia. It adds activity-based experiences to the University of Missouri Family Nutrition Education programs which are funded in part by USDA's Food Stamp Program.

Anthracnose Appearing on Maple Leaves in Southwest Missouri but Can Impact Other Trees Too

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. – Southwest Missouri homeowners have been calling county extension centers in the area with a common question: “What is causing the strange spots on the leaves of my maple tree?”

Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with Barton County University of Missouri Extension, provides the answer.

“This year we have experienced a cool, wet spring. These weather conditions are favorable for the development of anthracnose on maple trees,” said Scheidt.

Anthracnose of maples is a fungal disease causing irregular spots on leaves. Anthracnose fungi typically create spots that form around the leaf veins, causing the death of the vein and the surrounding tissue.

Over time these areas tend to fall out, giving the leaves a very ragged appearance. Leaf margins, interveinal areas and some petioles can also be infected, causing malformed and blighted leaves.

Anthracnose can also affect ash, birch, elm, hickory, linden, sycamore, tulip tree, walnut and white oak trees in Missouri.

“Anthracnose can be treated with a fungicide, but is not generally recommended because trees are usually able to recover without long term damage,” said Scheidt.

Trees damaged by anthracnose usually recover by mid-June (when weather conditions are drier and warmer). Raking leaves in the fall and discarding of them is the easiest and best way to control anthracnose.

There are several things homeowners can do to help manage anthracnose.

First, it is important to know that spores of anthracnose fungi over winter in leaf litter and on dead branches. Raking to remove infected leaves in the fall and pruning dead branches will reduce the inoculum available to create infections for next season.

Second, it is a good idea to promote air circulation by thinning excessive twig and branch growth. This will reduce the period of time that leaves are wet and vulnerable to inoculation.

Third, keep trees growing vigorously by supplying one inch of water weekly during dry periods and fertilize in early spring.

Fourth, fungicides are available to control this disease on many hosts. However, fungicides are most appropriate and economical for younger, newly transplanted trees that may not be able to withstand defoliation.

“To be effective fungicidal sprays must begin at bud break before symptoms are noted and be continued at intervals specified by the label (usually 10 to 14 days) through the period of spring rains. Spraying after infection is present will provide little benefit,” said Scheidt.

For more information, contact the nearest county extension center or go online to http://extension.missouri.edu.

Show-Me Select Bred Heifer Sale May 17 Saw Falling Prices

Contact: Eldon Cole, livestock specialist
Tel: (417) 466-3102
E-mail: colee@missouri.edu

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- The Show-Me-Select (SMS) Bred Heifer Sale on May 17 was anything but a runaway according to Eldon Cole, livestock specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

“After the sale, which averaged $1,524 on 283 heifers that sold, everyone was asking why they didn’t bring more?” said Cole. “A couple of months ago folks – including me -- were optimistic about the sale. Feeder cattle were selling well and based on the 11-year average ratio of the number of 550 lb., Medium-Large frame, 1 Muscle steers it takes to buy a bred SMS heifer on average the heifers should be close to $1850.”

Obviously, after the sale and the feeder price compared to the bred SMS heifer price was run, instead of a 2:1 ratio it figured to be 1.8:1. On top of that, the feeder market has not had the normal price rally.

“Right after the sale I asked several folks why there was not more interest and enthusiasm. Most offered a reply,” said Cole. “Some thought the weather impacted the sale, or feed prices, gas prices or even McDonald’s dropping the Angus burger. There are lots of opinions and some have merit while some have less validity.”

Cole says the bottom line is, this was a buyer’s sale and those $1,400 to $1,500 or less heifers will have someone smiling all the way to the bank in the next few years.

The top price of the evening was $2,100 paid by Scott Casey, Eldorado Springs, a repeat buyer. The seller was John Wheeler, Marionville. The 5-head set was Angus-Hereford F1’s. They were AI bred to Hoover Dam, an Angus. Overall the AI bred heifers brought $150 per head more than the ones bred naturally. Wheeler’s 54-head consignment averaged $1,667.

The high consignor average went to Jerry Carnes – Jireh Acres, Diamond. He sold 3 head for $1,900. That lot was also purchased by a repeat buyer, Roger Smithson, Bruner.

The second high consignment came from Jera and Jace Pipkin, Republic a pair of juniors who sold 17 heifers for an average of $1,721. They were a mix of straight Angus and Angus-Hereford cross. They were all AI bred to Connealy Right Answer 746.

Longtime consignor, Quinton Bauer of Verona sold 63 head for an average of $1608. The volume buyer for the sale was Charlie Neidert, Neosho. He purchased 27 head.

For more information, contact any of the MU Extension livestock specialists in southwest Missouri: Eldon Cole in Mt. Vernon, (417) 466-3102, Andy McCorkill in Dallas County at (417) 345-7551 or Logan Wallace in Howell County at (417) 256-2391.

Field Scouting Report for May 22: Applying Nitrogen to Wheat Now Will Not Increase Yield; Some Armyworms Spotted This Week

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. –Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted area fields on May 22 to prepare this week’s field scouting report.

According to Peter Scharf, MU Extension state fertility specialist, at this point producers who applied anhydrous on corn ground in January or February have lost no more than 10-20 percent of the nitrogen applied. Dry fertilizer and earlier applied fertilizer have a greater risk for loss.

By going to the website and typing “Nitrogen Watch” into the search engine producers track rainfall and possible nitrogen loss by using the “Nitrogen Watch” web tool.

“It is too late to apply nitrogen to the wheat once 2 nodes are present on the stem. Research has shown that applying nitrogen in the fall then applying nitrogen past the boot stage will not increase yield,” said Scheidt. “It is not economical to apply nitrogen once wheat is in the boot stage because wheat will not efficiently use nitrogen and the increase that could be seen in wheat will not cover the cost of the nitrogen application.”

No diseases were seen this week in wheat. According to Scheidt, weather conditions are still favorable for fusarium head blight. Fungicides do not control head blight, fungicides can only suppress head blight. Fungicides that suppress fusarium should be applied at or during flowering. Remember to read the label for the appropriate timing of fungicide application.

ARMY WORMS

Armyworms were seen in wheat fields around Lamar, just under threshold level. Threshold level for armyworms is 6 per foot. Mustang Max or Hero is recommended to control armyworms. To scout for armyworms bang wheat heads together, then look on the ground for small to medium sized worms.

Armyworm feeding was also seen in corn, but not at threshold level. Armyworms begin feeding in the whorl to the outside of the whorl. Leaves appear as if they had been shot by a shot gun.

MORE INFORMATION

Helpful articles on funguses and fungicide ratings, late corn planting and burndown procedures can be found on the website at extension.missouri.edu or by calling the nearest county extension center.

The weekly field scouting report is sponsored by University of Missouri Extension and Barton County Extension.

For more information on this scouting report, or to learn how you can receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County at (417) 682-3579.

Fundraisers and 4-H Among Issues on Agenda for May 28th Meeting of Greene County Extension Council

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist and county program director
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Members of the Greene County Extension Council will conduct their regular monthly public meeting starting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 28 in the large classroom at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 South Scenic Avenue, Springfield, Mo. The Botanical Center is home to the Greene County Extension Center.

Typically the Extension Council meets the last month of each month but because of the Memorial Day holiday the meeting for May has been moved to a Tuesday.

The full agenda for the meeting, as well as minutes from the previous month’s meeting, can be found online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene under the “plans and reports” tab.

Unfinished business items include a report from the 4-H Action Committee and discussion of 4-H club audits. Under new business, council will discuss the upcoming “Dinner at the Orchard” fundraiser, a new partnership with AutoWranglers to turn donated junk vehicles in to cash for the Greene County Extension, the annual program review event, and a possible county government information day in the fall.

“The Greene County Extension Council is an elected governing body established in Missouri state law as a function of county government,” said Carl Allison, chair of the Greene County Extension Council. “The steps council members are taking now are designed to raise awareness and keep minimum programming in place until funding from the county improves.”

This month’s meeting also includes a report from the regional director of MU Extension about moving another specialist out of the Greene County office due to lack of funding from the Greene County Commission.

The county extension council, comprised of both elected and appointed citizens, is a full partner with Missouri's land-grant universities to deliver high-quality education and research-based information that helps people solve real-world problems and take advantage of opportunities.

Council members work with extension specialists to provide county educational programs, manage finances of local extension operations, provide personnel to carry out extension activities, and elect and organize the local extension council

Tickets on Sale for “Dinner at the Orchard” June 14 to Benefit Greene County Extension and Featuring Locally Produced Foods

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A special upcoming event being billed as “Dinner at the Orchard” will benefit Greene County Extension and feature locally produced foods.

The special evening begins at 7 p.m., Friday, June 14 at Sunshine Valley Farm Café, 8125 E State Highway AD, Rogersville, Mo. Thanks to Michael and Jan Wooten, owners of Sunshine Valley Farm, 100 percent of all tickets purchased benefit “Friends of Greene County Extension.”

Dinner includes appetizers and a complete meal featuring locally produced and grown foods.

The evening includes harp music by Drew Holt, special beverages and good conversation with others who support the mission of MU Extension in Greene County.

MU Extension specialists and staff from Greene County will attend the event to visit with guests and help set up and serve meals.

Jan Wooten serves on the Greene County Extension Council and the Wooten’s have sought information and advisement from MU Extension specialists for their orchards and business over the years.

The event is also a match with MU Extension’s mission and program focus according to David Burton, county program director for Extension in Greene County.

“Greene County Extension specialists are heavily invested in promoting and educating the public about locally produced foods, helping people produce their own food, teaching about good nutrition and helping local businesses succeed,” said Burton. “This event will showcase the impact of those efforts in one location.”

Advanced tickets must be purchased before June 12 and are available at a cost of $50 per person. Tickets can be bought by cash or check at the Greene County Extension office, 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield, Mo. 65807. An order form is available online. Tickets can be purchased using a credit card, only through our website, at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

Since 1914, Greene County residents have sought help from Extension in areas related to agriculture, gardening, 4-H youth, nutrition, families, business and community development. Members of “Friends of Greene County Extension” contribute financially to make it possible for Extension to continue having a positive impact on the quality of life in Greene County.

Small Businesses in Branson to Be Celebrated, Supported with Seminars During Small Business Week, June 17-21

Contact: Chrystal Irons, business development specialist
Tel: (417) 546-4431
E-mail: ironsc@missouri.edu

BRANSON, Mo. — “Small Business Week” is a national event meant to focus the nation’s attention on the importance of the small business community.

More than half of all Americans work for or own, a small business according to the SBA. As a result, small businesses are responsible for about two in every three new jobs created in the U.S. on an annual basis.

Branson’s “Small Business Week” (June 17 – 21) is a partnership between the University of Missouri Extension - Taney County SBTDC, Branson Chamber of Commerce and the Taney County Business Development Partnership. Local efforts that week will support Branson area small businesses through workshops, seminars and networking events that inspire, educate, and connect the business community.

“For the first time, Branson will take part in the national small business celebration. We plan to honor our local small businesses and entrepreneurs for their innovation and contribution to the City of Branson, Taney County and southwest Missouri.” said Chrystal Irons, a University of Missouri Extension business development specialist headquartered in Taney County.

BUSINESS SEMINARS

The following workshops held during Branson’s “Small Business Week” at a rate of $15 per session or $30 for all three.

“Sources of Finance for Small Business,” 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, June 17, at Chateau on the Lake Resort, 415 N State Highway 265, Branson. The program costs $15 or three sessions for $30. This workshop will address loan programs available to new and existing businesses (DED, SBA and USDA). A panel of local bankers will cover the financing options in detail and help attendees understand what program(s) may work best for them, how the lending process works and the information required.

“Customer Service Superhero,” 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday, June 18, at Stone Castle Hotel, 3050 Green Mountain Dr, Branson.  The program costs $15 or three sessions for $30. This three hour workshop will focus on an essential aspect of a good business, customer service. The program will focus on how to handling difficult customers, analyzing each employee’s “superpower,” and what a company can do to make customers the hero. Attendees will also get to hear real life examples of excellent customer service. A local small business owner wrote the curriculum for this program and participants will receive a workbook for future reference.

“Using Social Media to Enhance Your Business,” 9 a.m. to noon, Wednesday, June 19, at Arrowhead Building Supply, 181 Hollister Point Drive, Hollister. Participants will learn how to use social media to attract customers, engage customers and increase the bottom line. There will also be a discussion on how to launch a winning social media campaign, how to monitor social outreach and how to calculate a return on investment.

OTHER EVENTS

“Listening to Your Business,” 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Thursday, June 20 at Arrowhead Building Supply at 181 Hollister Point Drive, Hollister. This workshop helps existing entrepreneurs grow their business by looking at where the business is today, where it should be in three years, and the steps to get there. This is a hands-on Kauffman seminar retails for $125, but during “Small Business Week” is available at $100 per attendee. The Taney County Business Development Partnership is underwriting a portion of the fee for Taney County residents and businesses, reducing the fee to $25.

The week-long “Small Business Week” celebration in Branson will end with a free “Entrepreneur Mixer” at Copper Run Distillery from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Friday, June 21. Copper Run Distillery is a small business success story in Taney County. Join local business owners for prizes, networking, hors d’oeuvres and drinks (cash bar) at Copper Run Distillery, 1901 Day Rd., Walnut Shade, Mo. RSVP for the reception to Shelly Vorhaben at svorhaben@bransoncvb.com or 417-334-4084, ext. 314.

To register for any of these workshops, or for additional information, visit http://www.bransonchamber.com/about/events-SBW or contact Shelly Vorhaben at 417-334-4084, ext. 314 or email svorhaben@bransoncvb.com.

Partial funding for these programs comes through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. University of Missouri Extension, Branson Chamber of Commerce and the Taney County Business Development Partnership are co-sponsoring these events.

Learn "The Basics of Writing a Business Plan” at MU Extension Program in Forsyth on May 31

Contact: Chrystal Irons, business development specialist
Tel: (417) 546-4431
Email: ironsc@missouri.edu

A business plan is vital to the success of a business no matter its size or scope. That is why learning the basics of writing a business plan is so vital according to Chrystal Irons, a business development specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

University of Missouri Extension’s “The Basics of Writing a Business Plan” class, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, May 31 at the Taney County Extension Center, 122 Felkins Ave, Forsyth, will teach participants how to create this organizational roadmap.

“My goal with the class is to help participants understand the process of creating an effective business plan for lenders and management decision making,” said Irons. “During this workshop you’ll learn the importance of a business plan which can help you define your concept, evaluate the competition, determine risks, and estimate your costs.”

Program highlights include learning about: the executive summary, how to do market analysis including customer and competitor analysis, management and employees, the description of operations and location, and how to create the financial statements required by lenders.

This course is for new and existing business owners, and it will help participants identify the key components of a business plan, as well as detailing guidelines for style and appearance to help create a more professional look for your business plan.

The cost to attend the workshop is $39 and advanced registration is required. To receive additional information and to register, call (417) 546-4431.

This class is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. University of Missouri Extension programs focus on the high-priority needs of Missourians. Each county extension center, with oversight by locally elected and appointed citizens, is your local link to practical education on almost anything.

Hickory County Cattlemen’s Bus Tour Going to Oklahoma and Texas Aug. 5 -8

Contact: Brie Menjoulet, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 745-6767
E-mail: menjouletb@missouri.edu

The annual Hickory County Cattlemen’s Bus Tour is Aug. 5 through Aug. 8 and will travel south to Oklahoma and Texas for several educational and interesting stops according to Brie Menjoulet, agronomy specialist with the University of Missouri Extension in Hickory County.

“This tour is designed to give area cattlemen and women an inside look at the innovative management techniques of other producers while viewing some impressive cattle and to help increase their knowledge and understanding of different areas of agriculture that can affect the beef industry,” said Menjoulet.

This year the tour will visit with Red Angus producer, Jerry Jeffries, at Jeffries Cattle. Participants will then take a tour of the commercial and Red Angus herds at Broseco Ranch, where the group will learn more about their white-tail deer breeding program and hunting offerings.

Tour participants will also get to visit with Beefmaster producers: Steve and Jill Spears, and Charolais producer, Eric Dennis, at Dennis Charolais. A tour of the Black Angus and Clydesdale programs at Express Ranches will also be offered.

“The tour will also include a visit of the research farms operated by the Nobel Foundation where we’ll have the opportunity to view forage trial research plots, cattle handling facilities, the ‘boarbuster’ trap used to capture wild hogs and to learn more about adding value to culled cows and measuring forage capacity,” said Menjoulet

The cost per “head” is $335, which includes transportation and hotels (double occupancy). Reservations will be accepted until June 20 or until the bus is full.

“We have a limited number of openings. Please call prior to sending any money to make sure the bus is not already full,” asks Menjoulet.

Registration and payment can be made by mail or dropped-off at the MU Extension office in Hermitage. Current participant pick-up locations include Preston, Springfield and Mount Vernon.

For a registration form, a complete itinerary, internet links to several tour stops, for more information or to make arrangements due to a disability, contact the Hickory County Extension office at 417-745-6767 or visit http://extension.missouri.edu/hickory/.

The Greene County 4-H Fair is June 7 – 8 in Springfield

Contact: Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist
Tel: (417) 466-3102
E-mail: deaverk@missouri.edu

The 2013 Greene County 4-H Fair is being held over three different weekends and gets underway June 7-8 at the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield.

“The fair showcases the finest 4-H projects in Greene County this year,” said Karla Deaver, the University of Missouri Extension 4-H youth development specialist that serves Greene County.

On Friday, June 7, horse demonstrations get underway and the livestock judging contest is held. There are livestock shows in beef, sheep, rabbits, swine, meat and cats along with live animal demonstrations in the Swine Arena. Handmade exhibits will be on display in the 4-H Building.

On Saturday, June 8, the handmade exhibits will be on display in the 4-H building. There will also be poultry, dairy and meat goat shows along with a dairy cattle and horse show in the main arena.

The horticulture exhibits from 4-H are actually showcased later in the summer to give vegetables and other garden plants the opportunity to grow. On July 12-13, the 4-H horticulture exhibits will be on display at the Springfield – Greene County Botanical Center.

An offshoot of the 4-H Fair, the Greene County 4-H Dog Show will be held June 30 at Springfield Dog Training Club Facility, 454N. Farm Road 223, Springfield. There will be demonstrations in several categories including Clover Kids, trick class, showmanship, rally, agility, obedience and costume.

A complete schedule of events for the 4-H Fair can be found by clicking the 4-H link on the Greene County Extension website at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

For information on 4-H contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists in southwest Missouri: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Amy Patillo in Howell County at (417) 256-2391; or Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500.

Chronic Disease Management Class Being Offered in Greene County Starting June 6; Register by June 3

Pamela Duitsman, nutrition and health education specialist
E-mail: duitsmanp@missouri.edu
Tel: (417) 881-8909

Help is on the way for people that have a chronic disease like diabetes, fibromyalgia, cancer, heart disease, arthritis or asthma.

University of Missouri Extension will offer a series of “Chronic Disease Self-Management” classes 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., on Thursdays, June 6 thru July 18 (no class the week of July 4) at the Mercy Health Plans Building on 3265 S. National Avenue in Springfield.

Classes are free but pre-registration is required, and must be made by Monday, June 3 by calling Greene County University of Missouri Extension at (417) 881-8909. Registration can also be done online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene. The class size will be limited to a maximum number of eighteen participants.

“Classes are highly participative. Participants find mutual support and success as they build confidence in their ability to manage their health and maintain active and fulfilling lives,” said Pam Duitsman, a nutrition specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

The Chronic Disease Self-Management classes will help participants improve their knowledge of living a healthy life with a chronic condition. Participants will learn appropriate exercise for maintaining and improving strength, flexibility, and endurance, will be able to manage fatigue and stress better, and find solutions to problems caused by their condition.

Duitsman will also help participants identify ways to deal with anger, fear, frustration and depression caused by their condition, and explore ways to communicate with family and friends and develop decision-making and problem-solving skills.

“In the past, people who have taken this class have reported an increase in: the amount of time they exercise; improved communication with their physician; and confidence in their ability to manage their conditions,” said Duitsman. “Past class members have also reported less fatigue and less disability after taking this series of classes.”

Weed ID Is Important When Selecting and Treating Weeds

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

It is essential to treat weeds to reduce the competition to desired plants in a field or pasture according to Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County.

“When weeds are present, they are competing for nutrients, sunlight, air and moisture,” said Scheidt.

However, in order to have success, correctly identifying weeds in a pasture is very important.

“Identifying a weed incorrectly can lead to applying the wrong treatment,” said Scheidt.

The most successful way to kill a weed is to treat for it while it is in a young stage of growth.

According to Scheidt, most weeds are hard to control once they have reached over four inches in height or diameter, so treating for weeds during the early stages of growth is pertinent.

WEED IDENTIFICATION

University of Missouri Extension has many helpful resources to help producers correctly identify weeds and learn about growth stages and the most effective method for control.

The website, http://weedID.missouri.edu, contains about 350 different plant species that could be encountered as a weed of field and horticultural crops, pastures, lawns, gardens, and noncrop or aquatic areas in Missouri and surrounding states, said Kevin Bradley, MU Extension weed scientist.

Users choose either “broadleaf” or “grass and grass-like” and then narrow the list of suspects by selecting from among more than a dozen characteristics such as habitat, lifecycle, leaf type and root system.

For more obscure characteristics like the presence of ligules and auricles, helpful illustrations appear when users keep the mouse pointer over the drop-down box.

NEW WEED APP

University of Missouri Extension has released a free app for iPhones, iPads and Android devices to help people identify weeds in the field, lawn or garden.

The app, called ID Weeds, has information on more than 400 plant species that could be encountered as weeds in crop fields, pastures, lawns, gardens or aquatic areas in Missouri and surrounding states.

ID Weeds lets users narrow the list of suspects with a series of drop-down boxes for various plant characteristics.

If a user is not familiar with technical terms such as "ligules" or "spatulate," they can click on "what's this" to see an illustration.

“Seems like most people have a cell phone these days, so this app can aid producers with quick information,” said Scheidt.

Download iPhone and other iOS devices at itunes.apple.com/app/id-weeds/id559906313. For Android devices, search for "ID Weeds" at play.google.com/store.

ONLINE PUBLICATION

Finally, the University of Missouri Extension has many helpful guides on herbicides and control methods for weed control.

One document, “MUPastureWeedBrush.PDF” lists weed names, control methods, mixtures and correct timing herbicide application. This link can also be found on the Cedar County Extension website or by going to http://extension.missouri.edu and typing in “Pasture Weed and Brush Control."

“This guide is quick and easy to follow, it also provides efficacy ratings on herbicides,” said Scheidt.

Local Extension offices can aid producers with printed information and tips on how to navigate through the MU Extension website.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Good for the Farm and Checking Account Says Extension Specialist

Contact: Tim Schnakenberg, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 357-6812
E-mail: schnakenbergc@missouri.edu

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a systematic approach to solving pest problems.

According to Tim Schnakenberg, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension, all categories of pests (insects, diseases, and weeds, etc) can be controlled using IPM.

“Putting a successful IPM program into action on your farm involves the following five steps,” said Schnakenberg. “First, identify key pests and the damage they cause, then monitor pest populations on a regular basis and determine the potential for economic loss or significant reduction of aesthetic value. Then choose the proper management tactic or combination of tactics and evaluate the effectiveness of the management plan.”

PEST ID

Proper identification of a pest is important for several reasons.

“First of all, the pest may not be at an economic level that requires control. Not all insects are pests, some are beneficial. Proper selection of a pesticide depends on correct pest identification,” said Schnakenberg.

Several MU Extension guide sheets are available to help identify various crop pests. Visit the MU Plant Protection Program website at http://ppp.missouri.edu/ to find images of crop pests in Missouri.

MONITOR PEST POPULATIONS

“Rather than calendar-based treatments, IPM stresses scouting practices to detect pests and determine if action is necessary. If damage can be detected before a serious pest population becomes established, crop loss may be avoided,” said Schnakenberg.

In Missouri, black cutworm is an IPM success story. MU Extension pest managers can forecast the arrival of this migratory pest before damages occur. Using insect trap count data from insect trappers and degree-day modeling to calculate the predicted date of the damaging larval stage of this pest, corn producers and crop professionals are notified to scout fields.

The program avoids needless insecticide applications, producing both economical and environmental benefits.

To be notified about pest alerts in Missouri visit http://ppp.missouri.edu/pestmonitoring/subscribe.htm and get up-to-date information about seasonal pests in your area.

ECONOMIC LOSS

When using Integrated Pest Management practices, control measures are based on an economic threshold. To justify treatment, pest populations or pest damage has to exceed this threshold.

For many of Missouri’s common agronomic insect pests, thresholds have been developed as a result of many years of research. For more information about pest control on agronomic crops request the 2009 Missouri Pest Management Guide M171 from your local MU Extension office. There is a fee for the guide.

PEST MANAGEMENT TACTICS

Producers that practice IPM use multiple tactics to control crop pests. Integrated pest management tactics include biological, cultural, physical, genetic and chemical aspects.

“Contact an MU agronomy specialist in your region to find out the latest information on specific pests and control measures on crops you is growing,” said Schnakenberg.

EVALUATION

The success of an integrated pest management program depends on evaluation of its results.

What worked well, which aspects need improvement, and which should be eliminated? What are the benefits of the program in financial return and environmental or social value?

“Growers and consultants are increasingly aware that their ability to continue producing depends on favorable public perception of their practices. Part of the solution is to adopt IPM. It is important to consider that as knowledge and technology evolve, so will IPM programs,” said Schnakenberg.

For more information, contact any of these MU Extension agronomy specialists in southwest Missouri: Tim Schnakenberg in Stone County, (417) 357-6812; Jill Scheidt in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; John Hobbs in McDonald County, (417) 223-4775 or Brie Menjoulet in Hickory County, (417) 745-6767.

“The Use of Social Media for Disaster Recovery” Guide Available Free Online

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

University of Missouri Extension’s popular publication “The Use of Social Media for Disaster Recovery” is available online for free just in time for tornado season.

Since being posted online in March of 2012, the guide has been downloaded and printed over 15,000 times, used at FEMA trainings, and even distributed by Texas Governor Rick Perry to county emergency management personnel in Texas.

The guide has been profiled in national media and called “informative and useful” to anyone interested disaster recovery or creating a successful social media presence.

The free guide is written by Rebecca Williams and Genevieve Williams, creators of Joplin Tornado Info on Facebook, and David Burton, civic communication specialist for University of Missouri Extension and creator of Branson Tornado Info on Facebook.

The publication also contains information about similar pages done in Woodward, Oklahoma and Wichita, Kansas as well as the Missouri Flood Info page and the brand new US Tornado Info community on Facebook.

The 32-page guide draws from experience with Joplin Tornado Info (47,000 followers) as well as the things learned when implemented with Branson Tornado Info (17,000 followers). Some of the guidelines and suggestions for doing similar pages have also been updated.

The guide “Using Social Media in a Disaster” is available for free download online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

For speaking engagements or training opportunities about using social media in disaster recovery, contact the authors of this guide directly: Rebecca and Genevieve Williams at joplintornadoinfo@gmail.com and David Burton at burtond@missouri.edu.

Source: Rebecca Williams, Joplin Tornado Info, 417-501-5187, email at joplintornadoinfo@gmail.com

Powdery Mildew and Septoria Spotted in Wheat Fields; Time to Scout for Fusarium

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted are fields on May 15 to prepare this week’s field scouting report.

“This week I spotted a lot of powdery mildew and septoria in area wheat fields,” said Scheidt.

Powdery mildew is identified by green to yellow specks on the leaves turning to white mold. Septoria is identified by yellow specks or streaks expanding to yellow to reddish-brown irregular shaped blotches with fruiting bodies

Scheidt said when these are seen on the flag leaf, apply a foliar fungicide, such as Tilt, before flowering and before the flag leaf is severely infected.

“It is not necessary to apply a fungicide unless disease is seen on the flag leaf. Fungicides do not increase yields; fungicides increase yield potential wheat has before a disease has occurred,” said Scheidt.

Fusarium head scab should be scouted for in fields. Fusarium is favored by moderate temperatures of 77-86 degrees, frequent rain, overcast days and high humidity; problems can be more severe if a rain occurs during flowering. Premature bleaching of the head as well as orangish-pink mold growth at the base of the spikelets are symptoms of fusarium.

If fusarium has infected wheat, it should be tested for mycotoxins before it is fed to non-ruminant animals. Caramba, Proline and Prosaro are recommended for fusarium head scab and should be applied at or just before flowering.

“A lot of weeds that usually emerge after corn or soybeans are in the ground, are already in fields now. These problematic weeds can be treated during a burndown spray by using tank mix partners such as sharpen, 2,4-D, dicamba, or metribusin with primary burndown herbicides like glyphosphate or parquet,” said Scheidt.

MORE INFORMATION

Helpful articles on funguses and fungicide ratings, late corn planting and burndown procedures can be found on the website at extension.missouri.edu or by calling the nearest county extension center.

The weekly field scouting report is sponsored by University of Missouri Extension and Barton County Extension.

For more information on this scouting report, or to learn how you can receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County at (417) 682-3579.

Master Naturalists Thriving in Springfield Area

Contact: Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: byerspl@missouri.edu

Master Naturalists share knowledge of Missouri's rich outdoor world as citizen scientists and community volunteers. But Master Naturalists also help the Missouri Department of Conversation and University of Missouri Extension with volunteer hours.

Springfield Plateau Chapter of the Missouri Master Naturalist is a community based natural resource education and volunteer program according to Patrick Byers, a horticulture specialist for University of Missouri Extension who co-advises the chapter.

“The purpose of the program is to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas within their communities for the State of Missouri,” said Byers.

During 2012, the 60-plus members of the Springfield Plateau Master Naturalist chapter contributed over 7,000 volunteer hours to the community.

JOIN MASTER NATURALISTS

Members of the Springfield Chapter of the Master Naturalists are planning a training class in the fall for new members, from Sept. 8 through Oct. 27. Cost is $100, with classes meeting 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursdays in Springfield, and four Saturday field sessions.

For more information about the class, contact Jay Barber, Missouri Department of Conservation, at 417-895-6881 ext. 269, jay.barber@mdc.mo.gov, or Patrick Byers, MU Extension, byerspl@missouri.edu.

To learn more about the Springfield Plateau Master Naturalist chapter visit their website: http://springfieldmasternaturalist.com/. Be sure to spend some time exploring the educational blog written by Bob and Barbara Kipfer at http://springfieldmn.blogspot.com.

PROGRAM BACKGROUND

The Master Naturalist program is a partnership between the Missouri Department of Conservation and University of Missouri Extension.

The Master Naturalist’s mission is to promote awareness and citizen stewardship of natural resources through science-based education and community service. The program’s purpose is to develop a corps of well-informed volunteers to provide education, outreach and service dedicated to the beneficial management of natural resources and natural areas.

Participants receive 40 hours of training in Missouri ecosystems, including ecology and resource management. Participants contribute 40 hours of service in natural resource conservation through projects that meet local conservation needs in addition to eight hours of continuing education.

MU Extension Conducting Popular Five-Part Food Preservation Series in El Dorado Springs Starting June 3

Tammy Roberts, nutrition and health education specialist
E-mail: robertstt@missouri.edu
Tel: 660-679-4167

University of Missouri Extension kicks off a series of five popular hands-on food preservation classes in El Dorado Springs starting on June 3.

Offered in partnership with Snodgrass Greenhouse, the classes will be held at 5:30 p.m., Mondays, June 3 thru July 1 at the El Dorado Springs Community Center, 135 W. Spring, El Dorado Springs.

The entire series of food preservation classes includes sessions on low-acid pressure canning, how to pickle, jams and jellies, pickles, salsa and freezing and drying foods, all priced at $20 per person, per class.

CLASS LINE UP

June 3- Pressure Canning Low Acid Foods – Be ready to start with fresh green beans and participate in the canning process until we take the jars from the canner.

June 10- How to Pickle- We will prepare and process dilled green beans. We will also discuss how to prepare and process fermented pickles and sauerkraut.

June 17- Salsa From Your Garden- We will prepare and process both a fresh tomato and fruit salsa.

June 24- Jams and Jellies- In this class you will make blueberry spice jam as well as freezer jam. Receive lots of tips on how to make sure your jams and jellies turn out perfectly.

July 1- Freezing and Dehydrating- Learn how to get the best results when freezing produce. See what to look for when purchasing a dehydrator. Learn the process of preparing food for dehydration and how to store dehydrated foods. This class is lecture and discussion with sampling.

Cost of the classes is $20 each or $80 for all five. Pre-registration is required five days before each class. For more information or to register, call Cedar County University of Missouri Extension at (417) 276-3313.

MORE INFORMATION

In all classes, participants will receive University of Missouri Extension guide sheets and other handouts so that you will have all of the information you need to get started at home. These are hands-on classes. Come prepared to roll up your sleeves and participate in each process from fresh produce to sealed jar.

The classes will be taught by Tammy Roberts, nutrition and health education specialist with University of Missouri Extension. During 2010, Roberts taught over 450 people during food preservation classes in Greene County.

“If you have never canned before but want to start preserving your garden delights, these classes are for you. If it has been a long time since you have used a pressure canner or if you have recipes that were published before 1989, this class is for you too,” said Roberts.

According to Roberts, the classes will cover the basics of home food preservation and offer a hands-on portion and offer new recipes and sources of the latest research. Participants will receive MU Extension guide sheets that include basic information on the class topic.

4-H Members in Southwest Missouri Fighting Hunger with “Invest an Acre” Program

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

Statewide, 4-H members are seeking donations from Missouri farmers for the Invest an Acre program as part of a 4-H Revolution of Responsibility campaign to find solutions to hunger through community service.

Promotion of the Invest an Acre program by 4-H clubs includes awareness building ranging from hosting meals and display booths, speaking at farmer meetings to even passing out snacks at grain elevators to organizing food drives and constructing and planting community gardens.

Farmers can make an Invest an Acre donation from the proceeds of their harvest at the grain elevator where they do business. Pledge cards can be filled out at any time during the growing season, at harvest or at the time of delivery to the elevator.

Elevators receive tax-deductible donations from farmers and send them to Feeding America, a nationwide network of food banks. Every dollar donated by farmers goes back to the food bank serving the multi-county region where they live.

Invest an Acre sponsors say efforts by 4-H and other partnering organizations are key to making the program accessible to “any Missouri farmer, any location, any time.”

More than one in five children in Missouri do not have enough nutritious food to eat, and 4-H members want to change this, says University of Missouri Extension 4-H youth development specialist Steve Henness.

“When children do not have enough to eat, their health and well-being is affected, which also puts them at greater risk academically,” said Henness. “4-H youth are inviting farmers and their communities to join in the fight because we know hunger is really not a game.”

BARTON AND DADE COUNTIES

In Barton County, 4-H clover kids participated in a “Down on the Farm” event April 20. Special activities were designed to help the youngsters learn how to get along and share with others , explore different interests, learn basic life skills, build self-confidence, learn how to communicate effectively and be a part of a group. The Barton County 4-H Teen leaders planned “Down on the Farm” to introduce farming to young children.

In Dade County, 4-H Youth Program Associate Becky Fay is working with local students to promote the “Invest an Acre” program. She is also working on a Farm to School initiative, which is giving 4-H’ers access to farmers.

In both counties, 4-H members are talking with community groups and community leaders about the “Invest an Acre” program.

SPONSORS AND MORE

The Invest an Acre program is sponsored by ADM, the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, Monsanto and Feeding America. Missouri ADM elevators can process donations in Audrain, Knox, Lewis, Linn, New Madrid, Ralls, Shelby, St. Louis, Stoddard and Vernon counties.

Monsanto has committed to match Invest an Acre farmer donations nationally dollar-for-dollar, up to $675,000 this year.

The Missouri Agribusiness Association, Missouri Farm Bureau, Missouri Farmers Care and the Missouri Food Bank Association are promoting the program to give more farmers opportunities to participate. Any grain elevator can receive and process Invest an Acre donations with a letter printed from the website.

For more information, please visit www.investanacre.org or 4h.missouri.edu/programs/hunger. Persons wanting to know more about the “Invest an Acre” program can also contact Steven Henness at 573-884-6618.

For information on 4-H contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists in southwest Missouri: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Amy Patillo in Howell County at (417) 256-2391; or Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500.

Master Gardeners of Greene County Present “Young Sprouts in the Garden” on May 18

Written by Jeanne Duffey

For the sixth year, Master Gardeners of Greene County will sponsor their signature children’s event, “Young Sprouts in the Garden,” from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 18, at Nathanael-Greene Close Memorial Park, 2400 S. Scenic Ave.

The free event, in collaboration with National Kids to Parks Day, will take place rain or shine.

“It’s an exciting time for adults to watch their children and friends’ children have one of the special times of their lives,” said Master Gardener Susie Joplin. “They bond with nature and learn how nature is very important to everyone’s lives. Young Sprouts impacts and makes a difference in a child’s life.”

Dellene Nelson, co-chair of Young Sprouts, says it is the creativity that goes on in the activities that makes the event phenomenal. “The children are completely engaged the whole time learning about plants and nature, wildlife and our environment. It’s fun for kids and parents and everyone involved in hosting this event,” said Nelson.

Activities include archery, geocaching, worm hunting, seed planting, corn-grinding, fossil-digging, bird beak engineering, rope making, botany rubbings and face painting. There will be a variety of crafts like making balloon flowers and hummingbird feeders, a plant zoo and a zipline, hosted this year by All About Trees.

Last year ArborCare of the Ozarks hosted the zipline: “Each child came to the traverse line with a different attitude,” said Sandy Harrel. “Some were thrill seekers and they couldn’t wait to get on the helmet and harness and go. Some were a little nervous and weren’t quite sure whether to do it or not. But all who went had huge smiles on their faces at the end and a story to tell their friends.”

Sponsors of Young Sprouts include Beekeepers Association of the Ozarks, Federated Garden Clubs, Janet Hayworth, Millsap Farm, Schaffitzel’s Flowers & Greenhouse, Southwest Missouri Camera Club, Springfield Conservation Nature Center, Springfield-Greene County Library District, Springfield Urban Agriculture Coalition and Victory Mission.

Master Gardeners of Greene County, in coordination with University of Missouri Extension, is located in the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center in Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park. Master Gardeners provide horticultural information and training to the gardening public based on proven research specific to the local climate, soils and plants. For information, call 417-881-8909 or e-mail at mg.greenecounty@gmail.com.

Greene County Extension Announces “Food Preservation Camp” for June 15 at Botanical Center in Springfield

Contact: David Burton, civic communication specialist
Tel: (417) 881-8909
E-mail: burtond@missouri.edu

Greene County Extension announced plans this week to host a “Food Preservation Camp” from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, June 15 at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center in Springfield.

University of Missouri Extension nutrition specialists will be instructors for the classes and will use research-based curriculum to teach the most up-to-date methods of food preservation.

Participants that enroll for the camp (at $85 per person) will spend the entire day in sessions learning about pressure canning, dehydrating food, making salsa, pickling and jams and jellies.

Registration can be done online at http://www.eventbrite.com/myevents?org_id=3892129 .
Participants will learn to pressure can vegetables during the first session of the camp. During the “pack a pickled product” portion attendees will learn to quick pack dilled green beans and learn water bath canning basics including how to pickle other products. As part of “Salsa Made Easy,” participants will learn water bath canning basics used with tomato and fruit based salsas. During the “Jams and Jellies” segment instructors will cover both cooked and freezer jams, as well as water bath canning basics. The “Freezing and Dehydration” segment will address freezing for best quality and the basics of dehydration.

A boxed lunch will also be provided to participants.

“The full-day camp is a new way to present this information that is more convenient for participants. In the past this series has been spread out over five different ways,” said David Burton, county program director for Greene County Extension. “We are also offering a nice discount over taking these classes individually for $20 each.”

Advance registration is required in order to have the necessary supplies for the hands-on class. The class size is limited to 20 participants.

Registration materials are available on the Greene County Extension website: extension.missouri.edu/greene. Printable enrollment forms are posted for download and payment with a check or an online credit card enrollment option is also available.

Space for this MU Extension program in Greene County is provided by the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center.

Take Steps to Keep Spotted Knapweed from Getting Established on Your Property Warns Extension Specialist

Contact: Eldon Cole, livestock specialist
Tel: (417) 466-3102
E-mail: colee@missouri.edu

Since the first report of spotted knapweed in southwest Missouri (in 2002) a number of groups have been working hard to control its spread.

“No doubt, spotted knapweed was probably around several years earlier than 2002 but it went undetected,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

University of Missouri Extension, Missouri Department of Transportation, Missouri Department of Conservation, and numerous county road districts have cooperated in teaching landowners what knapweed looks like, where knapweed is located in the state and how to control knapweed.

Thanks to the Missouri Legislature, spotted knapweed is now on Missouri’s noxious weed list.

Knapweed control is not difficult. There are several herbicides that are effective when used in October or in the spring. Regular mowing can keep the plant from producing seed. Spring applications should be made before the plant bolts.

“Biological control also offers hope. Beneficial weevils have been released over the last 3 or 4 years. Biological control however is slow and herbicide use will have a more immediate impact,” said Cole.

HERBICIDE CONTROL

The herbicide treatment of spotted knapweed patches can be done in late fall or early spring. Its greatest control occurs when the plant is less than 12 to 15 inches tall. Due to the late spring, many knapweed plants are still in the vulnerable stage.

The plant puts out attractive lavender to purple bloom in early June. Cole says this may be a good time to identify it and make note of those locations for treatment in the fall when the plant is in the rosette stage.

“Remember to watch hay fields closely and know if knapweed is in them. Be careful to not spread the seed across your farm or don’t sell infected hay to a neighbor,” said Cole. “My recommendation is keep after spotted knapweed and don’t let it become established on your property.”

For more information, contact any of these MU Extension agronomy specialists in southwest Missouri: Tim Schnakenberg in Stone County, (417) 357-6812; Jill Scheidt in Barton County, (417) 682-3579; John Hobbs in McDonald County, (417) 223-4775 or Brie Menjoulet in Hickory County, (417) 745-6767.

MU Extension Takes “Food Power Adventure” to Bradleyville Elementary

Contact: Barbara Beck, nutrition program associate
Tel: (417) 546-4431
E-mail: beckba@missouri.edu

Students from Bradleyville Elementary School traveled the path from the farmer’s field to the playing field when University of Missouri Extension’s Food Power Adventure came to town April 18.

“In the process of having fun, students learned where food comes from and how it gives them energy and helps them grow,” said Barb Beck, a Taney County nutrition program associate with MU Extension’s Family Nutrition Education Program.

Food Power Adventure is a popular traveling exhibit that gives elementary students an inside look at how the body turns food into energy.

Students make nine stops in their adventure and get an inside look at how food turns into energy. Students start at the pizza farm, then they put labels on milk cartons in the food packaging area and pick up food tags in the cafeteria station. Then, they are on their way through the digestive system so they can change their food into power and try it out in the muscle and bones stations.

Food Power adds unique activities to the nutrition lessons already being presented in many schools by classroom teachers and University of Missouri Extension nutrition educators.

“Food Power Adventure is the kind of active learning experience students need to help them see how the food they choose gives them energy they need to play and grow,” said Beck. “In addition to being a fun way for kids to learn about nutrition, the school is also meeting its wellness policy goals and state education standards.”

Food Power is a program being offered by University of Missouri Extension in cooperation with the Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Human Environmental Sciences, University of Missouri - Columbia. It adds activity-based experiences to the University of Missouri Family Nutrition Education programs which are funded in part by USDA's Food Stamp Program.

A video showing Food Power Adventure at a 2011 stop at Billings Elementary can be found online at http://bit.ly/q1nphX.

Download photos to use with this newsletter from our regional photo library found online at www.flickr.com/MUExtension417.
 

Report for May 8 - No Freeze Damage to Wheat, Delayed Corn Planting has a Downside Also

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Tel: (417) 682-3579
E-mail: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted fields in Barton County on May 8.

According to Scheidt, wheat is in the flag leaf to early boot stage. No freeze damage to the wheat head was seen. Temporary phosphorus deficiency, identified by purpling on leaf tips, was seen due to cold weather.

“Lodging is a concern now. If the wheat is unable to stand most of the way back up, it could result in up to a 50 percent yield loss if wheat is in the boot stage,” said Scheidt. “If the stem has been broken below the growing point due to the weight of the snow, those plants will be a total loss if they are in the flag leaf or boot stage. Less mature wheat is more likely to recover.”

Scheidt warns anyone thinking about switching from corn to soybeans, that costs and benefits of switching may not prove wise until planting is delayed until the end of May.

“If corn is planted, do not switch to a shorter maturity date variety. Maturity levels will move faster with increasing temperatures. Switching to an earlier maturing variety may result in corn pollinating too soon,” said Scheidt.

Delayed planting of corn causes concern for black cutworm, which clip the corn plants off below or above soil level. If the corn plant is cut off at soil level, the growing point may have been damaged and corn may not be able to recover.

If 2-3 percent of plants are damaged at or below soil level, or if 6-8 percent of plants are damaged above soil level, an insecticide is justified. A medium rate of Mustang Max or Warrior II is recommended.

“Cold weather should not damage corn because the growing point is still protected; when corn reaches 12” then a concern for frost damage may be possible,” said Scheidt.

MORE INFORMATION

The weekly field scouting report is sponsored by University of Missouri Extension and Barton County Extension.

For more information on this scouting report, or to learn how you can receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County at (417) 682-3579.

Celebrate Public Gardens Day May 10 at Springfield Botanical Gardens

Written by Jeanne Duffey

National Public Gardens Day on Friday, May 10, 2013, will be observed locally at Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park with several activities that highlight why green expanses are important to the community.

“Our park captures the essence of the history, culture and community by reflecting the landscapes, plants and gardens that perform best for this climate,” said Katie Steinhoff, coordinator of the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center. “Our volunteers maintain more than 20 outdoor display gardens and attractions, 15 special plant collections and five natural areas.”

On that day, beginning at 11 a.m. until 6 p.m., the Friends of the Garden-sponsored Dr. Bill Roston Native Butterfly House begins its fifth season of fun and education for adults and children alike. Last year, more than 22,000 people were entertained and educated by the colorful winged insects and their fascinating reproductive cycle.

On National Public Gardens Day, admission is free to the 7.5-acre Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden. “Usually it costs $3 to get into the Stroll Garden,” said Steinhoff, “But the Springfield-Greene County Park Board is giving back to the community by offering complimentary admission.” Hours are 9 a.m. until 7:30 p.m.

Master Gardeners of Greene County will be on hand to answer home gardening questions in the Hotline office located in the Botanical Center. Bring in an insect, diseased leaf or plant for diagnosis. The Hotline, 417-881-8909, ext. 320, is staffed from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

Visitors can also stroll through the Master Gardener Demonstration Garden with its mixed perennial border, themed herb beds, ornamental grasses, Missouri native plants, turf plots and kitchen garden to get ideas for their own gardens.

The Greene County Extension Center is also open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Visitors can also drop of soil tests from their lawn, garden or field during that time. Visitors can also view two Greene County Extension displays inside the Botanical Center. One entitled, “A Day in the Life of MU Extension” and another that showcases the “One-room Schools of Greene County.”

Hop on the Solar Garden Tram at the Botanical Center to get an overall feel for and access to the 114-acre Park Board-operated public park. The free service is available from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. “Look for peak blooms in the azalea, peony and iris gardens,” said Steinhoff.

To learn more about National Public Gardens Day, visit nationalpublicgardensday.org/.