Regional News Service Headlines for Aug. 29, 2014

Access this week’s headlines at: http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/swnews/queries/index.idc

• “Fall Garden Tour” Sept. 20 of Eight Area Gardens will Benefit Greene County Extension
• Feedout Sign-up Underway with Oct. 10 Deadline Looming
• Predatory Lending and ID Theft Seminar Sept. 11 in Forsyth
• “Raised Bed and Winter Gardening” Topic of Workshop Offered Sept. 9 in Forsyth
•  MU Extension’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute Offering Courses for Over-50 Adults Starting Sept. 9 in Galena
• Podworms are Above Threshold Levels in Many Southwest Missouri Soybean Fields
• Show-Me-Select Heifer Meeting Sept. 15 in Mt. Vernon
• Field Day for “Small Ruminants on Limited Acreage” is Sept. 27 in Stella
•  Programs in Taney County Sept. 3 Look at “Health Insurance, the Affordable Care Act, and You”
• Sheep and Goat Workshop in Stockton Sept. 16

Extension News is Accessible Lots of Different Ways, Just Not as Often on this Blog After Today

Contact: David Burton

Tel: (417) 881-8909

Email: burtond@missouri.edu

One thing a person can accurately say about the Southwest Region News Service is that it has changed a lot in the past 13 years. When I first began my job with University of Missouri Extension, a majority of our media releases were sent by mail or fax. Now, we send no content out using either of those methods.

Instead, we now have a mix of electronic methods that have shown results. For many years, I have made changes and accommodations to this news service after receiving feedback from various journalists and users of our weekly content.

In the case of this week's announcement, the changes are being made because of staff reductions and the need to save some time by eliminating some steps in the process. 

This blog is going mostly silent as of today. From time to time some special stories may get posted here. As a result, the weekly email blast and social media posts will be linked to the news stories posted on the Agricultural Electronic Bulletin Board (AgEbb) at http://agebb.missouri.edu/index.htm. AgEbb is maintained by University of Missouri Extension.

Many of you are aware of the AgEbb resource. Some have told me they prefer it because the articles posted on AgEbb are in a .txt format and more easily copied and pasted for use in publications.

The articles on AgEbb remain posted for 90 days. The first 30 days are visible on the main page, and the other 60 are archived under a separately identified link. The content for Southwest Region News Service appears under the Cooperative Media Group link. The direct link to content from southwest Missouri is http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/swnews/queries/index.idc .

The regional news service page (http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/swnews/queries/index.idc) also has the option of subscribing to the RSS Feed which will result in you getting an email of any media release once it is loaded to the AgEbb page. This works best if you are using Microsoft products like Internet Explorer and Outlook. The subscription details for an RSS Feed is as follows: On http://agebb.missouri.edu/news/swnews/queries/index.idc , you’ll see an orange and white square in the top left hand corner. Click on that logo, and it will take you to the RSS feed for Southwest News. To subscribe to the feed, there is a link that has be clicked on in the yellow box, at the top of the page that reads “Subscribe to this feed” and you are ready to go with email. If you want to add the feed to your website you will need these additional steps after clicking “subscribe to this feed”: place the RSS feed link in the designated area they prefer for the information to appear, and hit Subscribe.

Of course, some prefer to receive the weekly news blast that we send out once a week as a listserv. (Information about subscribing to the news listserv is posted here: http://extension.missouri.edu/greene/news.aspx). As a time savings, that email blast is changing too. The blast will no longer contain a link to each headline with a summary sentence. Instead, it will contain a list of the headlines for the week and then one link to our regional news service on AgEbb. Readers can still click on the stories they want to read once they are on the AgEbb news page.

This listserv is the tool/format that is provided to our office free-of-charge. I do realize it is a little old-fashioned and some folks have trouble with the unsubscribe option. And yes, I do realize that Constant Contact and Mail Chimp are both great services for emailed news however money is tight in our office after a 90% budget cut and funds for these tools simply is not available.

If you wish to receive the individual media releases, subscribing to the RSS feed is a good option. I will also continue to email media releases to media outlets in the area where the story should be of most interest. Although these emails will contain a story headline and the first sentence, they will now also contain a link back to the story on AgEbb.

As a journalist, if none of these options meet your needs but you still want to easily access our weekly content, there is one final option. I can email the original Word documents to you each week under the subject heading of “For posting to AgEbb (SW Region News Service Word documents for the week).” Simply send me an email identifying the media outlet that employs you and let me know you would like to receive the Word documents weekly.

Maybe this is more information than you need. The main point is to be sure you know that there remain several ways to access, copy, use and share news content posted by MU Extension in southwest Missouri.

Your input remains important and you are invited to take our news service survey online at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/S6VKNMW

If you have additional feedback, please email me at burtond@missouri.edu.

Silent Auction Added to “Salute to Century Farms” Event in Greene County Sept. 30

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Local businesses and artisans have donated Missouri products and services for a silent auction at the upcoming “Salute to Century Farms” being held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at the Round Barn Event Center along Clear Creek, 10731 W. US Hwy 160, Walnut Grove.

All of the proceeds from the silent auction will go to Greene County Extension.  Individuals must be present to bid so buy a ticket for the event today. So far, council members have gathered over $1,500 worth of merchandise for the auction.

At the end of the “Salute to Century Farms” the top bidder could be taking home a great Missouri item like a charcoal drawing, a hand-crafted stained glass work, a gift certificate at Five Pound Apparel, local artisan jewelry, apple pies from Sunshine Valley Farm or tickets for an on farm dinner at From Table to Farm.

The Greene County Extension website (http://extension.missouri.edu/greene) has a full list of items up for auction and more complete descriptions. If you are a local business/artisan wanting to donate an auction item, email wintersl@missouri.edu.

EVENT DETAILS

The first annual “Salute to Century Farms” will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 30 at the Round Barn Event Center along Clear Creek, 10731 W. US Hwy 160, Walnut Grove.

The event location is historically known as the Octagonal Barn and is located 3.5 miles east of Ash Grove on Hwy. 160 (northwest of Springfield). The barn was built in 1880 and is probably the earliest polygonal or round barn in Missouri.

Farms in Greene County being recognized as Century Farms at this event include Charles and Katherine Buckner of Fair Grove (2014) and the 2013 farms: Robert and Mary Mays of Ash Grove; John and Doris Breakbill of Republic; and Warren D. Hardy Jr. of Rogersville.

An hour of musical entertainment will be provided by Acoustic Essays, a traditional bluegrass and classic country band. A full meal will be provided by Maggie Mae’s Catering from Miller.

David Baker, assistant dean of agriculture extension at the University of Missouri, will discuss the 100 year history of Cooperative Extension and the challenges facing family farms in the coming 15-20 years.

SPONSORS AND TICKETS

This event is made possible by our media sponsors: News-Leader; Ozarks Farm and Neighbor Newspaper; KOLR/KOZL; Our Gold Level sponsor the Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District; and our silver level sponsors Old Missouri Bank and Cox Health Systems; and our bronze level sponsors: Race Brothers Farm Supply, Main Street Feeds and Fire & Ice Restaurant & Bar.

Advance tickets are required and cost $25 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the Greene County Extension office or with a check or credit card using various ticket options online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.
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Blister Beetles in Area Alfalfa Fields Poise Poison Risk to Livestock Says MU Extension Specialist

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

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- Blister beetles are showing up in area alfalfa fields and that is a cause for concern according to Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Blister beetles poise a poison risk to livestock, especially horses,” said Cole.

The compound causing the poisoning is cantharidin which causes blistering of the mouth, tongue and digestive tract.  Death loss can occur in horses, depending on the size of the animal and the quantity of beetles in the baled hay.

According to Cole, the primary cause of poisoning is the crushing of the beetles in the haying process.  Crimpers used to speed the drying process of hay will crush the beetles and release the toxic compound into the hay.

Cantharidin is a stable material so it will stay in the hay once it’s contaminated.

“As with many toxins, the severity of the problem depends on the dosage level.  Ruminants are not as sensitive to the toxin but can be affected if levels are high,” said Cole.

Blister beetles come in a variety of colors, gray, black and black/yellow striped.  They like to feed on alfalfa blooms but may show up in red clover and soybean fields.

The University of Arkansas has a fact sheet (FSA7054) “Blister Beetle Management in Alfalfa,” online that answers several questions for producers that have the beetles in their alfalfa.

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, Dr. Patrick Davis in Cedar County at (417) 276-3313 or Logan Wallace in Howell County at (417) 256-2391.
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PHOTO AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH THIS STORY
https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14989318121/

Scales are an Important Part of Livestock Program

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

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- Since the 1950’s and 1960’s seedstock and commercial cow herds have used a scale to evaluate the individual performance of animals in their herds.

At first, the weights taken at weaning were actual weights without any standard age like 205 or 210 days. The age of dam and sex of the calf were not considered according to Eldon Cole, livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“It seemed the important thing was to know what the actual weight was and use it to impress neighbors and perhaps potential customers,” said Cole.

Over the years, various groups made progress in standardizing the weights to 205 and 365 days of age.  Contemporary groups were promoted to compare calves or yearlings more accurately to other progeny within the herd.

According to Cole, herd ratios were becoming accepted as the best method to get a quick snapshot of whether an animal was average, above or below.

A weight ratio of 100 percent indicated an average animal while larger numbers showed above average growth within the herd. Ratios below 100, of course, were those with below average performance.

“These ratios are still valuable today in genetic evaluation within a herd under comparable genetic and environmental conditions,” said Cole.

A most probable producing ability (MPPA) was adopted as an excellent cow herd selection tool.  The MPPA uses weaning weight ratios and numbers of herd records to accurately compare cows of varying numbers of records.

In the early years, computation of data was handled by University Extension programs and beef cattle improvement association’s (BCIAs).  Breed associations gradually entered the picture as calculators of performance data at least for registered cattle.  Some computed data also existed for commercial herds.

As bred associations climbed on-board, the performance evaluation efforts evolved thanks to computers, into estimated breeding values (EBVs) and expected progeny differences (EPDs).

“This enabled cattlemen to make herd comparisons more accurately than previously,” said Cole.

Many of the EPDs and within herd comparison begin with an individual weight written down on a report sheet or entered in a computer.

“In spite of the simplicity of weighing an animal it’s amazing how few cow herd owners develop a performance program that involves individual weights.  The major excuse is not having a scale. This might be a good time to invest in a scale,” said Cole.

Cole notes that the current cattle market indicates the value of one big steer calf or yearling could pay for a scale.

“If you only have a few cattle, perhaps consider buying a portable scale with a friend or neighbor.  If you have a scale, you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much you use it for more than genetic evaluation,” said Cole.

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, Dr. Patrick Davis in Cedar County at (417) 276-3313 or Logan Wallace in Howell County at (417) 256-2391.
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PHOTO FOR STORY: https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14854294412/

Fry, Owings and Kirchdoerfer Sweep Top Spots at State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest

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

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- Megan Fry, Matthew Owings and Tyler Kirchdoerfer finished first, second and third, respectively in the senior division of the Missouri State 4-H Dairy Judging Contest held Aug. 16 at the Missouri State Fair in Sedalia. Only 12 points separated the top three finishers.

Fry, Owings and Kirchdoerfer, along with Morgan Reed of Mountain Grove, are current members of the Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team, and will represent Missouri at contests in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania and Madison, Wisconsin this fall.

Megan Fry was the high individual in the senior division with 387 points.  Fry, of Mtn. Grove,  was first in Brown Swiss, Guernseys, Jerseys, and Oral Reasons, and second in Holsteins.

Second high individual in the senior division was Matthew Owings of Mountain Grove.  Owings was first in Ayrshires, second in Guernseys and Jerseys, and third in Holsteins.

Tyler Kirchdoerfer of Cape Girardeau finished third overall, and was third in ayrshires, Brown Swiss and Jerseys.

Rounding out the top five were Lora Wright of Verona and Ellie Wantland of Niangua.  Wright was second in oral reasons, and Wantland was third in that division.

Bailey Groves of Billings was the high individual in the intermediate division  with 378 points.  Groves was first in Holsteins, second in Ayrshires, and third in Guernseys.

In second was  Lauren Whitehead of Conway followed by Evan Dotson of Marionville, Grant Groves of Billings, and Nicolas Dotson of Marionville.

Taylor Whitehead of Conway was the high individual in the junior division. Second was Garrett Grimm of Aurora, followed by Lila Wantland of Niangua, Raven Austin of Conway, and Whitney Yerina of Conway.

The contestants placed six classes and gave two sets of reasons. The top three individuals in each breed received cash prizes sponsored by the Missouri breed associations.  The top ten individuals in each division received rosettes from the Missouri State Fair, and the top three individuals in each division received a plaque from the Missouri State Fair and supporters of the contest.  

Contestants, their families, and exhibitors who provided cattle for the event were the guests at a Junior Dairymen’s Barbeque sponsored by Midwest Dairy Association, Missouri State Fair, Missouri Cattlemen’s Association, MFA, Dairy Farmers of America, and Hiland Dairy.  The Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team is supported by Monsanto Company, FCS Financial, the Missouri Holstein Association and the Missouri Dairy Association in partnership with the Missouri 4-H Foundation, and thanks all their sponsors for their support.  

Teams will represent Missouri 4-H at two contests this fall:  The Youth Invitation Contest at the All-American Dairy Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Madison, Wisconsin in October.

For more information about the dairy judging program, contact either Ted Probert at the Wright County Extension Center at (417)741-6134, or Karla Deaver at the Lawrence County Extension Center at 417-466-3102.
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PHOTO AVAILABLE: https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14805722989/

New August 2014 Issue of “Historic Schools Quarterly” Released Online

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Every three months, members of the Missouri Historic Schools Alliance receive a high quality newsletter full of information related to one-room and historic schools in Missouri. The “Historic Schools Quarterly” is also available for purchase by non-members online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene/MHSAnewsletter.aspx as a digital download.

Highlights of our 18-page August 2014 issue included the following articles: “Profile of Pony School in St. Joe, Mo.,” “Getting Tourists to Slow Down for Small Town Heritage,” “Amish One-Room Schools in Missouri,” “Iowa Law Establishes Grant for One-Room Schools,” “Case Study: Cave Springs School in Jasper County” and “Kings Prairie School Profile.”

“Every quarter this newsletter includes profiles on existing historic schools in Missouri, information on restoration and renovation, memories of one-room schools written by former students and details about upcoming events,” said David Burton, a civic communication specialist with University of Missouri Extension and director and editor of the newsletter.

Members of the Missouri Historic Schools Alliance receive the newsletter as part of their annual membership fee. Information about membership is also available on the Greene County Extension website.

ABOUT MHSA

Missouri Historic Schools Alliance has a mission to research, restore and maintain one-room schools in Missouri. Participants in this MU Extension program work with individuals and other state and national partnering organizations interested in preserving the state's one-room schools as a means of community and economic development.

The Missouri Historic Schools Alliance works with groups and individuals to establish non-profit organizations to preserve these schools and encourage their ongoing use as active rural community hubs. At the center of this entire effort are the local resources of University of Missouri Extension.

For more information about MHSA or to learn how to become a member and receive the quarterly newsletter, contact Burton at (417) 881-8909, via e-mail at burtond@missouri.edu or online at http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.
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Two MU Extension Meetings in Southwest Missouri Aug. 26 will Explain Dairy Margin Protection Program

Contact: Ted Probert, dairy specialist
Headquartered in Wright County
Tel: (417) 741-6134
E-mail: probertt@missouri.edu

COLUMBIA, Mo. – Dairy producers must make a decision on a new risk management program offered under the 2014 Farm Bill.

Registration for the USDA Margin Protection Program (MPP) will probably start in September, says Joe Horner, a dairy economist at the University of Missouri.

In the past when milk prices dropped below a set level, Milk Income Loss Contract (MILC) support kicked in. Now, the USDA Farm Service Agency’s MPP gives producers margin protection.

Farmers sign up the portion of their milk production they want covered, then decide a level of margin above feed cost they want to purchase. The lowest coverage option is free.

“Protecting that margin above feed costs can help a dairy farm stay in business in hard financial times. Choosing the best option is important,” Horner said. “Risk mitigation depends on strength of the dairy business and level of risk that can be absorbed.”

Horner and Scott Brown, an MU livestock economist, developed calculator software to help producers find optimal margin and participation levels.

“The process sounds complicated,” Horner says. “But the calculator makes decisions easier.”

Horner and Brown will stage in-person demonstrations at two workshops Aug. 26 in southwest Missouri.
• At 10 a.m., they will be at the MU Southwest Research Center in Mount Vernon.
• At 1:30 p.m., they will meet at the Missouri State University Experiment Station in Mountain Grove.

For producers who cannot attend, a webinar will be held Sept. 19 from noon to 1 p.m. Details are available at local MU Extension offices.

Since the expiring MILC program followed prices and kicked in automatically, the MPP pays the dairy farm when the national margin drops below a set threshold for two consecutive months. Margins are based on a formula using income from milk and costs of corn, soybean meal and alfalfa hay.

Farmers’ decisions depend on how tight a margin their farm can tolerate and how much they want to pay for insurance. Producers need not sign up the full volume of milk they will produce. That will depend on the operator’s risk acceptance.

Dairy operators must sign up for the MPP through their local USDA Farm Service Agency office.

“It will help if the producer does some calculations before their appointment to sign up,” Horner says. “The software will help.”

Each operator can customize the protection level to fit their farm's capacity to absorb losses. Protecting the margin can help farms profit.

The MPP covers unexpected drops in milk prices or run-up in feed costs.

Coverage is not based on individual farms’ milk prices and feed costs because the MPP uses nationally published prices.

For more information, contact one of the MU Extension dairy specialists in southwest Missouri: Ted Probert in Wright County at (417) 741-6134 or by email at probertt@missouri.edu, or Reagan Bluel in Barry County at  (417)  847-3161 or by email at BluelRJ@missouri.edu.
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Reagan Bluel Named Dairy Specialist for MU Extension in Southwest Missouri

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Reagan Bluel has been named the new University of Missouri Extension dairy specialist in Barry County according to Jay Chism, Southwest Region director for MU Extension. She and her husband have already moved to Monett with their girls, Ada and Lily.

Here is a chance to get to know this new MU Extension specialist.

Name:  Reagan Bluel, regional dairy specialist

Education: Bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and a Master’s degree in ruminant nutrition.

Relevant past employment: From 2007 to 2014, Bluel worked as farm manager of The Ohio State University's Waterman Dairy in Columbus, Ohio. Previously, from 2006 to 2007, she had worked as a research specialist at Southwest Research Center in Mt. Vernon, Mo.

Responsibilities: Working with dairy farmers of all types in Barry, Dade, Greene, Jasper, Lawrence, McDonald, Stone, and Newton counties.

What attracted you to working with MU Extension? “I am eager to join and complement the strong existing dairy team to serve dairies in our surrounding communities,” said Bleul.

What do you hope to accomplish as a dairy specialist? “My goal is to keep current on research to empower producers to improve their herd health and profitability through information and dedication,” said Bleul.

What do you expect to accomplish in Barry County? “I expect to continue existing programming and develop around the needs of our constituents to ensure I serve SWMO's dairy industry to my maximum ability,” said Bleul.

Contact information: Barry County Extension Center, 700 Main, Suite 4, Cassville; telephone 417-847-3161 or email at BluelRJ@missouri.edu.
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PHOTO AVAILABLE: A print quality photo of Reagan Bluel is available for download at
https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14912780902/

Diseases Appearing in Soybeans Says MU Extension Agronomy Specialist

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Headquartered in Barton County
PHONE: 417-682-3579
EMAIL: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. -- Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted fields north of Arcola on Aug. 20 for the MU Extension crop scouting program. Scheidt offers this advice from the field.

CORN

Corn in the area is at from 75 to 100 percent black layer.

Scheidt did observe corn earworms feeding on mature kernels.

“The corn earworms were moving slow and should move to other fields or end their lifecycle soon. There was not enough damage and it is too late to spray an insecticide,” said Scheidt.

Scheidt recommends a fungicide in the bin to prevent disease if a lot of kernels are damaged by corn earworm.

SOYBEANS

Soybeans are in the beginning bloom to beginning seed stages.

Scheidt observed grasshopper feeding was seen on leaves; threshold levels for foliage feeding insects are 20 percent defoliation during or after bloom. Hero, Warrior or Mustang Max are the recommended controls.

“No corn earworms were seen but should be scouted for in soybeans. They pose the biggest threat to second crop soybeans,” said Scheidt. Threshold levels are 1 per foot of row or when 5% of pods are damaged.

Septoria brown spot was seen south of Lamar.

“It is too late to spray a fungicide in order to prevent or control most diseases if soybeans are past the flowering stage. Fungicide applications made after the flowering stage or once the disease is present, usually only suppress the disease,” said Scheidt.

According to Laura Sweets, plant pathologist with the University of Missouri Extension, fungicides do not need to be applied unless favorable weather conditions for disease are present.

Sudden death syndrome, or SDS, was seen in irrigated fields in Lamar. “SDS is caused by susceptible varieties and wet conditions,” said Scheidt.

According to Jason Bond, plant pathologist with the University of Illinois, turning off irrigation is not a good option if soybeans are developing seeds, because the consequences of dry growing conditions without irrigation outweigh the effects of SDS.

“There is no rescue treatments for SDS, selecting resistant varieties is the best control option,” said Sweets.

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 to receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County, (417) 682-3579.
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“Learn A Do” 4-H Club Receives First Place at Gold Buckle Extravaganza

Contact: Elaine Davis, 4-H program assistant
Headquartered in Barton County
Tel: (417) 682-3579

LAMAR, Mo. – “Learn A Do” 4-H club received first place in the Gold Buckle Extravaganza team events held July 17-19 at the Ozark Empire Fair.

Congratulations to youth and exhibitors participates Back row, George Weber, Lauren Morgan, Chase Mc Kibben, Kelsie Morgan, Halle miller, Trent Morgan, Tony Morgan, Caitlyn Moreno. Front Row, Mason Brown, Connor Brown, Stetson Wiss, Zaverie Wiss, Matthew Morgan, Kinder Standley, Brandon Overman. Addison Brown, Marcy Miller, Lily Weber, Payden Nolting and Lakin Standley.

Learn A Do 4-H club members from Lamar and Liberal participated in team events on the junior, intermediate and senior divisions.

The events included a stockmen’s contest, team sales, photography contest, livestock judging, showmanship and exhibition of animals. The 4-H club with the most accumulated points was presented a check of $150 to their 4-H club and each participant received individual recognition.

The Gold Buckle Extravaganza is a signature event of the Ozark Empire Fair Foundation. It first held in 2004 with the primary purpose of recognizing the efforts of Southwest Missouri 4-H and FFA livestock exhibitors who have qualified for the auction, and to award youth grants and scholarships. Since the event’s inception, nearly $600,000 has been awarded to kids.

Residents of southwest Missouri can contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists for information: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Monica Spittler in Taney County, (417) 546-5531; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500 or Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916.
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PHOTO AVAILABLE FOR USE WITH THIS STORY
https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14994495712

Back to School Blast Horse Show Taking “Ice Bucket Challenge” to a Whole New Level Aug. 23

Contact: Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist

Headquartered in Lawrence County 

Tel: (417) 466-3102

E-mail: deaverk@missouri.edu

Media inquiries call: Lynn Neidigh at 417-988-0798

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Close to 100 people are expected to participate in an “Ice Bucket Challenge” for the ALS Association between 7 and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 23 as part of the “Back to School Blast” Hose Show at the Ozark Empire Fair, 3001 N. Grant Springfield, Mo. 

The challenge was issued by Julie Williams, Battalion Chief of the Springfield Fire Department.

All exhibitors and sponsors of the horse show are being asked to participate in the “Ice Bucket Challenge” and then to donate funds to the ALS Association. Organizers of the “Back to School Blast Horse Show” say all exhibitor donations will be matched up to $500.

In addition, over 100 children who are participating in the horse show are going to pour cold water on their heads too as a thank you to the co-founder of the show.

“Debi Woodward, co-founder of this horse show, is currently living with ALS. The other co-founder of the show, Julie Williams, issued the challenge. Our committee members wanted to do something to show our support of Debi,” said Lynn Neidigh, coordinator of the horse show committee. “Ozark MFA was nice enough to donate a 20 gallon water bucket commemorating the 100th anniversary of MFA for every exhibitor to use in this challenge.”

CHALLENGE HISTORY

The challenge involves people getting doused with buckets of ice water on video, posting that video to social media and then nominating others to do the same, all in an effort to raise ALS awareness. Those who refuse to take the challenge are asked to make a donation to the ALS charity of their choice.

Beverly, Mass., resident Pete Frates, along with his family, helped to make the “Ice Bucket Challenge” go viral this year on the social sites Facebook and Twitter.  Frates, 29, has lived with ALS since 2012, and he has worked with The ALS Association’s Massachusetts Chapter.  A former Division 1 college athlete with Boston College Baseball, Frates tirelessly spreads awareness of Lou Gehrig’s Disease.

This viral sensation, which has used the hash tag #IceBucketChallenge, has attracted thousands of followers nationwide.

“This is a creative way to spread ALS awareness via social media and in communities nationwide,” said Barbara Newhouse, President and CEO of The ALS Association.  “We appreciate all of the individuals and groups that working to spread the word about ALS.”

HORSE SHOW DETAILS

The sixth annual “Back to School Blast” is a three-day youth horse show being held Aug. 22-24  at the Ozark Empire Fair, 3001 N. Grant Springfield, Mo. 

This horse show is open to any youth nationwide and is a major fundraiser for Greene County 4-H. Proceeds from the show will help fund the Greene County 4-H fair, Greene County 4-H scholarships, contest fees, trips and many other 4-H activities in the community. 

The “Back to School Blast” has grown to be the largest open all youth horse show in Southwest Missouri.  

This year’s horse show sponsors are: Go Classic Trailer, The Equine Clinic, Signs Now, Ozark MFA, Ozark Empire Fair, SOMO Farm and Ranch Supply, PFI Western Stores Inc. and Race Brothers.

For more information visit www.backtoschoolblastallyouthhorseshow.com online or email the organizers at btsbhorseshow@gmail.com. Lynn Neidigh and Gail Driskell are the volunteer organizers of this year’s horse show.

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Lawn Care Professional Workshop in Springfield Sept. 2

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Join University of Missouri Extension turf and horticulture specialists at a “Lawn Care Professional Workshop” to improve or perfect your lawn care skills. The workshop will be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2 at the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic, Springfield, Mo.

The workshop cost $35 per person and the registration deadline for this program is Friday, August 29. The registration form can be found online at extension.missouri.edu/greene.

“The program was designed for lawn care professionals but it would also be great for home owners who want to improve their yard,” said Patrick Byers, a University of Missouri Extension horticulture specialist who works with commercial lawn care managers to address turf issues.

Topics like soil testing, soil improvement, minimizing lawn pests and insects, lawn renovation, lawn diseases, lawn diagnosis and lawn mowing, fertility, aeration and watering will be covered.

COURSE INSTRUCTORS

Besides Byers, three other University of Missouri Extension professionals will be instructors at the workshop.

Dr. Lee Miller, a University of Missouri turfgrass pathologist, directs research on disease control in turfgrasses, provides disease diagnosis and provides recommendations turf for the lawn, golf, sports turf, and sod industries.

Dr. Brad Fresenberg, state turfgrass specialist with University of Missouri, teaches undergraduate courses and programs at MU and specializes in athletic field design and maintenance.

Jill Scheidt, an agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension, works with homeowners in five counties on lawn care questions. She recently aided in the development of a turf grass course at Pennington Seed.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about the program call Patrick Byers at (417) 881-8909 or contact him by email at byerspl@missouri.edu. Registration is also possible in person at the Greene County Extension, 2400 S. Scenic Avenue, Springfield, MO 65807.
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Learn About Tree Health and Garden Pest Control at Master Gardener Seminar Sept. 6 in Nixa

Contact: Dr. Gordon Carriker, agriculture business specialist
Headquartered in Christian County
Tel: (417) 581-3558
E-mail: carrikerg@missouri.edu

For Interviews contact: Jennifer Ailor at 417-581-4018
 
OZARK, Mo. – Learn about keeping landscape trees healthy and safely managing pests in the garden at a free seminar from 1 to 4 p.m., Sept. 6, at the Nixa Community Center, 701 N. Taylor Way, Nixa.

The seminar is organized by the Christian County Master Gardeners and individuals can register for it by calling the University of Missouri Extension office in Ozark at (417) 581-3558.

Dean Alberty of Midwest Tree Healthcare Company will discuss “Healthy Trees.” He will explain how to save your favorite ash trees from the emerald ash borer and new tree diseases and pests appearing in Missouri woodlands.

“Some of the new pests are hitching rides through imported woods and from wooden crates from other parts of the world. These wood imports pose serious threats because they have no natural predators or controls in this country,” said Alberty, who has traveled extensively internationally to study the problem.

Becky Nicholas of Wickman’s Garden Village will present, “Safe and Effective Pest Controls in the Garden.” Her presentation will include organic, eco-friendly products and techniques for protecting plants against plant diseases, insects, birds and pesky raccoons and deer.

Nicholas is a landscape consultant, has written gardening articles for various publications and has taught at the Ozarks Technical Community College.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information on the Christian County Master Gardeners, its demonstration garden and its free public classes, contact J.J. Leek at 581-6774, or Jennifer Ailor at 581-4018.

To become a Master Gardener, contact Dr. Gordon Carriker, MU Extension specialist and advisor to the Christian County Master Gardeners at 581-3558.
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Southwest Missouri Goat and Sheep Browsing and Grazing Academy is Sept. 12-13 in Neosho

Contact: Dr. Jodie A. Pennington, region small ruminant educator
Headquartered at Newton County Extension Center, Neosho, Mo.
Tel: (417) 455-9500
E-mail: PenningtonJ@lincolnu.edu

NEOSHO, Mo. -- The 2014 “Southwest Missouri Goat and Sheep Browsing and Grazing Academy” will be held at the Crowder College Agriculture Department in Neosho on Sept. 12-13.  The conference starts at 2 p.m. on Friday and ends at 4 p.m. on Saturday.

“This workshop is for both beginning and experienced sheep and goat producers that want to use browse or management intensive grazing on their farm or ranch,” Dr. Jodie Pennington, small ruminant educator with Lincoln University Extension. “Attendees will receive hands-on training in allocation of browse and forages for feeding and methods to maintain a healthy, sustainable group of animals.”

Topics to be covered at the academy include fencing, waterers, calculation and allocation of sheep and goats to a specific amount of land, soil fertility, management intensive grazing, brush nutrition and supplementation, herd health management, business planning, contract grazing forages, livestock guardian dogs, browsing plans, and FAMACHA and body condition scoring.

Featured speakers include Dr. Steve Hart from Langston University, Langston, OK,  along with speakers from Lincoln University Cooperative Extension, Crowder College, University of Missouri Extension, NRCS, and a panel of area producers.

The cost for the workshop is $45 per person and includes two meals, a manual of browsing and grazing materials, a FAMACHA card, and numerous educational handouts.

Preregistration with payment is required by Sept. 9 and checks or money orders should be made payable to Lincoln University Cooperative Extension or LUCE.

To register, of for more information, contact Vonna Kesel at (573) 681-5312, email KeselV@LincolnU.edu or Jodie Pennington at (417) 455-9500, email PenningtonJ@LincolnU.edu.

For hotel reservations, contact: Big Spring Lodge, 1870 Southern View Drive, Neosho at   (417) 455-2300.  A block of 15 rooms is reserved under:”Browsing Academy” at $65 plus taxes per night.  Reservations for the conference or motel should be made by Monday, September 8.
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Learn How to Water and Mulch Your Garden at Free Class Aug. 23 in Ozark

Contact: Dr. Gordon Carriker, agriculture business specialist
Headquartered in Christian County
Tel: (417) 581-3558
E-mail: carrikerg@missouri.edu

For Interviews contact: Jennifer Ailor at 417-581-4018

OZARK, Mo. – Christian County Master Gardeners will sponsor a free class on watering and mulching at 1 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 23, in the Bluff Room at the Community Center of the Ozarks, 1530 W. Jackson St., Ozark.

Register to attend by calling the Univeristy of Missouri Extension office in Ozark at (417) 581-3558.

Larry Martin, director of public works for the city of Ozark, will present the one-hour class on how to effectively water and mulch your vegetable garden. Martin will include tips on when and how much to water, different ways to water, installing irrigation systems, types of mulch and how much mulch to apply and when.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information on the Christian County Master Gardeners, its demonstration garden and its free public classes, contact J.J. Leek at 581-6774, or Jennifer Ailor at 581-4018.

To become a Master Gardener, contact Dr. Gordon Carriker, MU Extension specialist and advisor to the Christian County Master Gardeners at 581-3558.
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4-H Day at Lucas Oil Speedway is Sept. 13; Order Tickets Prior to Aug. 30

Contact: Velynda Cameron, 4-H specialist
Tel: 417-326-4916
Email: cameronv@missouri.edu

BOLIVAR, Mo. – All area 4-H members, alumni, families and their friends are invited to attend the first annual 4-H Day at Lucas Oil Speedway, Saturday, Sept. 13, in Wheatland, Mo.

Ticker orders must be postmarked by Aug. 30. An order form can be found online at http://extension.missouri.edu/hickory.

Those who order a ticket using the form online may also purchase a specially de-signed t-shirt featuring the 4-H emblem and the Lucas Oil logo as a race day keepsake. Tickets and t-shirts will be mailed on Sept. 5.

Tickets can also be ordered at the University of Missouri Extension Center in Hickory at 203 Cedar, Hermitage. Call Karen Wright at (417) 745-6767 for more information.

EVENING SCHEDULE

Races for the evening include Late Models, Modifieds, Factory Stocks and B-Mods.

Gates open at 5:00 p.m. and hot laps start at 7:00 p.m. All 4-H activities and the race will follow.

Those who participate in the 4-H raffle will have a chance to be selected to ride in the official truck, drop the flag, family 4-packs and race tickets.

Each 4-H member or child who attends the races wearing their 4-H Day at the races t-shirt will be entered in a drawing to win other random prizes including Lucas apparel.

“We hope to make 4-H Day at Lucus Oil Speedway an annual event,” said Velynda Cameron, a 4-H youth development specialist with University of Missouri Extension. “It will be a fun, family event and it also introduces a large audience to our 4-H youth program.”

WHAT IS 4-H?

Missouri 4-H is University of Missouri Extension's youth development program. Studies show 4-H’ers have three times greater interest in science than non-4-H peers and are 70 percent more likely to go to college. Over 5,000 youth in urban communities join local 4-H clubs each year.

The 4-H program helps to create opportunities for young people to be valued, contributing members of their community. To learn more about 4-H -- the world’s largest youth-serving organization -- and how to get involved locally go online to http://mo4h.missouri.edu.

Residents of southwest Missouri can contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists for  information: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Monica Spittler in Taney County, (417) 546-5531; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500 or Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916.
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Lawn, Gardening or Insect Problem: Who Ya Going to Call?

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – If you have a lawn or gardening problem, who are you going to call for research-based and unbiased answers?

Volunteers working the Master Gardeners of Greene County Hotline have answers to your home gardening questions.

The hotline is staffed with Master Gardener volunteers from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays from March through October.

The hotline can be reached by telephone at 417-881-8909 ext. 320 or by email at hotline@mggreene.org.

Visitors are always welcome to come in personally to the Hotline Room located in the west end of the Springfield Botanical Center at 2400 S. Scenic Avenue in Springfield.

Clients who come in person can visit face-to-face with master gardeners and can bring in a sample of the problem for better diagnois.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

The Master Gardener program is a popular statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others. Master Gardeners become volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and donate hours for community educational projects in horticulture.

In 2012, over 250 MU Extension-trained Master Gardeners provided about 20,494 hours of volunteer horticulture services locally.  Master Gardeners provide educational programs, work in demonstration gardens, answer horticulture questions from members of the public and assist with various other community projects.

Training in gardening and landscaping also leads to more spending in those areas. According to a 2005 story in Gardening Magazine, Springfield has the 3rd highest per capita spending on horticulture in the United States.  

Learn more about the Master Gardeners of Greene County online at http://mggreene.org or contact the MU Extension Center in Greene County at (417) 881-8909.
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Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team Excels in International Competitions

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

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- The Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team continued their tradition of excellence by placing second in two international dairy judging contests as a part of the International Dairy Youth Tour this summer.

Steven Nelson, son of Mike Nelson of Grove Spring; Tucker Peterson, son of Janet Peterson of Mountain Grove; Bailee Whitehead, daughter of Tony and Nikki Whitehead of Conway; and Brittany Groves, daughter of Todd and Sheila Groves of Billings, were invited to compete in the 2014 International Dairy Judging Tour of Scotland, England, Wales and Ireland from June 18 to July 2.

Missouri 4-H’s team was invited in recognition of their outstanding results from the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest at World Dairy Expo this past October.

In Scotland, the team competed with other winning 4-H, FFA and intercollegiate teams on June 21 at the Royal Highland Show in Edinburgh.

The pair of Steven Nelson and Bailee Whitehead placed second in the competition to a pair from Pennsylvania 4-H. New for this year’s tour, was a second competition in Charleville, Ireland on June 28.  The Missouri 4-H team worked together to see how closely they could match the official judge of the show.

Missouri 4-H again placed second, this time  just 6 points shy of Maryland 4-H. In addition to the competitions, they toured dairy farms, agriculture industries, and other local interest sites, providing a varied cultural opportunity for the team.

“Our team really embraced this opportunity to travel and have these new experiences,” said Deaver. “Not only did they see agriculture and the dairy industry in another part of the world, but they developed lifelong friendships with members of the tour from other states.”
 
A luncheon was held on July 11 to recognize those who sponsored the team.  Sponsors included Missouri Dairy Association, Megan Fry, Robert Elijah, Duncan Smith, Toecky Registered Holsteins, Missouri Guernsey Breeders Inc, Purina Animal Nutrition LLC, James Tigner, Dorothy Hilton, Dairy Farmers of America, Missouri Ayrshire Association, Missouri Jersey Cattle Club, Orscheln Farm and Home, Phil Rauch, Cathy Yeoman, Jenny Tudor, Thomas Willoughby, Phillip Brooks, Veronica Buff, Select Sires MidAmerica Inc, Laclede Electric Cooperative, CLA-COR Farms LLC, Joe Kirchdoerfer, Zach Lesmeister, Jim Lesmeister, Missouri Holstein Friesian Association, Stuart Schooley, Dairymen's Marketing Cooperative Inc, Nelson Trickey, Betty Smith, Marjorie Thompson, Missouri Brown Swiss Cattle Breeders Association, Mary Peterson, James Coats, Larry Ferguson, MFA Foundation, Margaret Schooley, Kenda Ogle, Robert Hummel, Peterson Gravel & Ready Mix Inc, Peterson Construction Company Inc, Marshfield Veterinary Clinic, West Plains Veterinary Supply of Springfield, Zoetis, Novartis/Elanco, Boehringer Ingelheim, Merial, Norbrook, and Animal Health International.

The team receives ongoing support from Monsanto Company, FCS Financial, the Missouri Holstein Association and the Missouri Dairy Association in partnership with the Missouri 4-H Foundation, and thanks all their sponsors for their support.  

For more information about the Missouri 4-H Dairy Judging Team program, contact one of the coaches with University of Missouri Extension: Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist, at 417-466-3102; or Ted Probert, dairy specialist, at 417-741-6134.
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PHOTOS AVAILABLE for use with this story.
Dairy 4-H Team: https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14668011718/
Team in Ireland: https://www.flickr.com/photos/muextension417/14854283312/

MU Extension Conducting “Four Season Gardening” Class at Millsap Farms on Aug. 21

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – University of Missouri Extension’s class on “Four Season Gardening” will be offered to the public starting at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 21 as part of the “Organic Gardening Academy.” There is a per person fee for the class of $20.

The class will be held at Millsap Farms, which is located nine miles north of I-44 and Glenstone Ave., at 6593 N. Emu Lane Springfield, Mo.

Class attendees will meet in the parking area. The first hour of the class will be a presentation by Shon Bishop, small farm specialist with Lincoln University Extension. Attendees will then go on a tour of the farm led by Shon and Curtis Millsap.

At the end of the tour, attendees will have the option of staying and enjoying a pizza buffet made on site in a wood fired oven with fresh ingredients grown on the farm!  There will be an additional charge for the pizza.

Pre-registration can be made by emailing Kelly McGowan at mcgowank@missouri.edu or call the Extension office at 417-881-8909.

The remaining classes in the “Organic Gardening Academy” are “Composting” on Sept. 18 and “Sustainable Water Use” on Sept. 30.

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. More information on this topic is available online at http://extension.missouri.edu.
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Six Volunteers from Southwest Missouri Inducted to Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame

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

Source: Rachel Augustine, 573-884-7641

COLUMBIA, Mo. – “Making the best better” for generations of 4-H’ers, 54 people joined the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame on Aug. 9 at the State Fair Community College campus in Sedalia.

Six of the individuals inducted were from counties in southwest Missouri.

Inductees from 41 counties bring with them a total of 1,566 years of volunteer service to the hall of fame. More than 300 family members and friends attended the eighth annual event for which citizens nominated 4-H’ers for outstanding volunteer work in local 4-H programs.

“This celebration acknowledges the contributions of distinguished 4-H leaders — both past and present,” says State 4-H Council President Trent Ludwig. The Missouri 4-H Foundation honors individuals with a legacy of service to 4-H with induction into the Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame.

“These leaders have made exceptional contributions to the lives of Missouri 4-H members, and we are proud to honor their service,” says Missouri 4-H Foundation Executive Director Cheryl Reams.

FCS Financial, the Missouri State Fair and the Missouri 4-H Foundation sponsor the annual event.

2014 Missouri 4-H Hall of Fame inductees from southwest Missouri:

• Barton: Donald and Wilma McKibben
• Greene: Sherry Kelley
• Jasper: Mike and Pat Cloud
• Lawrence: Marilyn Calvin

MORE INFORMATION

Missouri 4-H is University of Missouri Extension's youth development program. The 4-H program helps to create opportunities for young people to be valued, contributing members of their community. To learn more about 4-H -- the world’s largest youth-serving organization -- and how to get involved locally go online to http://mo4h.missouri.edu.

Residents of southwest Missouri can contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists for  information: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Monica Spittler in Taney County, (417) 546-5531; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158; Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500 or Velynda Cameron in Polk County at (417) 326-4916.
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Black Layer is the Time to Shut Irrigation Off

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Headquartered in Barton County
PHONE: 417-682-3579
EMAIL: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. -- Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted fields east of I-49 along Hwy. 126 on Aug. 13 for the crop scouting program. Scheidt offers this advice from the field.

CORN

Corn is nearing the black layer stage, or physiological maturity. “Once black layer is reached, irrigation can be turned off,” says Scheidt.

Scheidt observed diplodia ear rot on ears. “Diplodia is identified by grayish-white mold between kernels,” says Scheidt.

According to Laura Sweets, state pathologist with University of Missouri Extension, diplodia ear rot is favored by wet weather just after silking and is more severe when corn is planted following corn.

SOYBEANS

Soybeans are in the 8 trifoliate and beginning seed stages.

“Very little insect activity was seen. Scout for podworms now; podworms pose the biggest threat to double crop beans, scouting should begin in the flowering stage,” says Scheidt.

Threshold levels for podworm in soybean are 1 per foot of row and 5 percent pod damage.

According to Wayne Bailey, state entomologist with University of Missouri Extension, Hero and Mustang Max are the recommended insecticide controls.

A fungicide application to soybeans at the R5 stage, or beginning seed development, will most often result in a yield increase, if disease is present.  Fungicides applied at R6 may result in improved seed quality, this is may not happen every year and will seldom be a yield increase.

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 to receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County, (417) 682-3579.
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2014 North American Manure Expo held in Springfield

Contact: Bob Schultheis, natural resource engineering specialist
Headquartered in Webster County
Tel: (417) 859-2044
E-mail: schultheisr@missouri.edu

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- “Valuing Manure and the Environment” was the theme of the 2014 North American Manure Expo, which came to the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds in Springfield on July 8-9.

 The two-day event brought together over 70 vendors from throughout the United States and Canada, along with University Extension professionals from Missouri, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Ohio and Pennsylvania. Those Extension professionals educated farmers and regulators from Washington to Florida, Vermont to Texas, and the countries of Canada, Germany, China, and Argentina.

The purpose of the expo, which had over 400 participants each day, was to show how to apply manure more efficiently as a fertilizer, while reducing negative effects on the environment.

On July 8, over 180 attendees boarded buses to tour Chapman Dairy near Pierce City, Mo., and see manure storage agitation equipment in action. That was followed by a walking tour of the Southwest Wastewater Treatment Plant in Springfield to see how city wastewater is cleaned up and biosolids returned to the land as valuable fertilizer using precision field mapping.

On July 9, the focus shifted to a wheat stubble field near the Springfield airport to watch side by side demonstrations of liquid and solid manure injectors and spreaders. It was then back to the fairgrounds to see state-of-the-art manure equipment displays and hear experts on manure management during an afternoon of educational seminars.

The event concluded with talks and demonstrations on manure gas safety and manure spill prevention and cleanup.

For more information, see http://www.agannex.com/manure-manager/manure-expo, or contact Bob Schultheis at 417-859-2044 or by email at schultheisr@missouri.edu.
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Photos available for use with this story at: www.flickr.com/MUExtension417.

4-H Families Have Day at the Fair at Part of Southwest Regional 4-H Achievement Day

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- One hundred 4-H members from eight southwest Missouri counties competed at Southwest Regional 4-H Achievement Day, held at Ozark Empire Fair on July 28.

For the first time, the event was held at the Ozark Empire Fair, and organizers say it was a positive move according to Karla Deaver, 4-H youth development specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“Our 4-H families were able to come to the event, compete, and then spend some time taking in all that Ozark Empire Fair has to offer,” said Deaver.  “We were fortunate to have great sponsors to assist with the event, which made the day very affordable for our 4-H families.  There were about 250 4-H members and their families in attendance.”

The only one of its kind in the state, Southwest Regional Achievement Day provides an opportunity for 4-H members from the area to compete in events like public speaking, demonstrations, fashion revue, member judging and personal development.  Members qualify for these events at the county level and 4-H members also exhibit project items at the county level.

Project exhibits that receive a blue ribbon at the county level are judged and displayed throughout Ozark Empire Fair in the 4-H building.

Sponsors for 2014 Southwest Regional Achievement Day were Matthew Davidson, State Farm Agent, Lamar, Ozark Empire Fair and Missouri 4-H.

Missouri 4-H is University of Missouri Extension's youth development program. The 4-H program helps to create opportunities for young people to be valued, contributing members of their community. To learn more about 4-H -- the world’s largest youth-serving organization -- and how to get involved locally go online to http://mo4h.missouri.edu.

Residents of southwest Missouri can contact any of these 4-H youth development specialists for  information: Karla Deaver in Lawrence County at (417) 466-3102; Monica Spittler in Taney County, (417) 546-5531; Bob McNary in Jasper County at (417) 358-2158;  or Jeremy Elliott-Engel in Newton County at (417) 455-9500.
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Time to Start Planning Successful Fall Garden

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. -- Some of the best quality garden vegetables are produced and harvested during the fall season when warm, sunny days are followed by cool, humid nights.

However, there are also problems with getting a fall garden started according to Patrick Byers, a horticulture specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

“August brings with it high soil temperatures, high light intensity and rapid soil drying. These factors present real problems with getting uniform stand of plants,” said Byers.

In August, the surface of the soil can become very warm and dry out quickly.

“The weather combined with the fact that vegetable seeds should not be planted any deeper than three times the diameter of the seed, makes planting depth and protection for the seed crucial,” said Byers.

Byers recommends applying a light layer of mulch over the row of newly planted seeds to retain moisture. Gardeners can also try screen wire strips, shade cloth, or boards to cover the row from the intense heat.

“This will moderate both soil temperature and soil moisture, but you need to remember to remove coverings after seedling emerges,” said Byers.

When it comes to seeds, Byers says it is fine to use seeds left from the Spring planting.

“”If the seeds were stored in a cool and dry place they should be good for planting. Seeds stored in the freezer properly should remain viable for several years,” said Byers.

Soak seeds overnight before planting (except beans and peas). This will hasten germination and seedlings emergence when soil drying is most critical to plant growth.

Short season warm vegetables like beans can still be planted for a fall harvest. Cool season veggies like beets, turnips, lettuce, spinach, and radish can be direct seeded.

The timing of the planting is crucial and can be determined based on the average frost date in the area where the garden is being planned.

“The average first frost date for the fall in the Springfield area is Oct. 17. Check your seed packet for the days to harvest and count back from the frost date to determine the best time to plant,” said Byers.

Byers says it is a good idea to supplement rainfall with trickle irrigation to get early established growth. Soaker hoses are good sources. Cover seeded rows with mulch to reduce soil temperature and premature drying.

For additional information on fall planting dates, visit your local University of Missouri Extension center and request Guide 6201, “Vegetable Planting Calendar.” The guide is also available online at extension.missouri.edu.
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Entries in Ozark Empire Fair Hay Decrease but Relative Feed Value of Entries is Highest in the History of the Show

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

MT. VERNON, Mo. -- This year’s hay show at the Ozark Empire Fair had the least number of entries since the beginning of the show in 1985.  Weather was to blame according to most of the farmers.

“Extra cool weather in April and early May followed by abundant rain without a window to allow hay to cure made haying this Spring a serious challenge,” said Eldon Cole, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension.

In spite of poor weather conditions, some entrants found a way to produce high-quality hay.

Mike Coble of Aldrich walked away with the Grand Champion ribbon on his July 3 cutting of alfalfa.  His victory was made possible by a combination of a 223 Relative Feed Value (RFV) and a subjective score of 39 out of 40 possible points.

The RFV scores were based on laboratory analysis that involves the acid detergent and neutral detergent fiber portions of the plant.  Those fiber values increase as the plant matures.  Protein content is not considered in RFV computations.

Coble’s winning entry had an impressive 24.3 percent crude protein and a whopping, 72.7 percent total digestible nutrient (TDN) level on a dry matter basis.  The alfalfa entries were the largest class in the show.

The averages of the ten alfalfas were:  195 RFV; 68 percent TDN and 22.5 percent Crude Protein.  The RFV average was the highest in the history of the show. The previous high average was in 2012 when 16 entries had an average of 182.

The Reserve Grand Champion ribbon was somewhat of a surprise. The judge, Dr. Ben Fuqua, a retired Missouri State professor of agriculture, selected Josh Biglieni’s second cutting of fescue.

Josh is from Stotts City, and the hay was Kentucky 31, cut on June 16.  It had a 109 RFV, 60 percent TDN and protein level of 17 percent.  The standout feature was the subjective score of a perfect 40.  That was based on aroma, color, purity, shape and condition.

“The judge and extension faculty helping with the show said they’d never seen any fescue that good,” said Cole.

Other class winners were Jack Gilliam, LaRussell with a Bermuda grass entry.  John Martin Oczkus, Aurora took the blue ribbon in the grass-legume class with a red clover, fescue, orchardgrass mix.  Doug Glossip, Highlandville won the summer-winter annual grass class with a Foragemaster wheat entry.

Taking the blue ribbon in the large round bale classes were Duncan Smith of Mountain Grove with a fescue entry.  Randy Jenkins of Seymour easily won the large bale, grass-legume class with a fescue, orchardgrass and red clover mix.

Complete lab results are available by contacting southwest Missouri extension centers.  It is also posted online at http://extension.missouri.edu/lawrence

The show is an educational effort by University of Missouri Extension, Custom Lab, Golden City and the Ozark Empire Fair.
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Pest Levels Low in Corn and Soybean Fields

Contact: Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist
Headquartered in Barton County
PHONE: 417-682-3579
EMAIL: scheidtjk@missouri.edu

LAMAR, Mo. -- Jill Scheidt, agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension in Barton County, scouted fields northwest of Liberal on Aug. 6 for the crop scouting program. Scheidt offers this advice from the field.

CORN

Corn is in the dent to black layer stages. “Black layer is when corn has reached physiological maturity, about 20 days after the dent stage. Black layer can be identified by breaking the ear in half and looking for the milk-line, a dark yellow line that gradually forms closer and closer to the cob,” said Scheidt.

According to Mississippi State University Extension, when black layer is reached, irrigation should be shut off. Potential kernel weight is only about 75 percent complete at the dent stage. Irrigation is still needed at this stage to fill kernels.

SOYBEANS

Based on her scouting, Scheidt says soybeans are in the 6 to 7 trifoliate and podding stages.

According to Laura Sweets, state pathologist with University of Missouri Extension, fungicide application timing for soybean foliar disease management should begin at pod initiation. This is when 3/16 inch long pods are at one of the four uppermost nodes on the main stem with a fully developed trifoliate leaf node.

“Fungicide applications should only be made if favorable conditions, such as wet, humid weather occur during this stage,” said Sweets.

Scheidt observed less than one percent pod damage from pod worm and bean leaf beetle in podding soybeans. Threshold level for pod worm is 1 per linear foot and when five percent of pods have damage. Second crop soybeans are at greater risk for pod worm damage.

“Do not misidentify green clover worm with pod worms, green clover worm carry a fungus that kills pod worms. Green clover worm and pod worm are similar in color but can be differentiated by counting the number of abdominal pro-legs.  Green clover worm have three abdominal pro-legs and pod worms have 4 abdominal pro-legs,” 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 to receive it a week earlier by telephone, contact the MU Extension Center in Barton County, (417) 682-3579.
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"Growing Garlic" Program is Sept. 2 at Botanical Center

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

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The September “Learn to Grow in the Garden” class hosted by the Master Gardeners of Greene County will focus on beautiful and edible garlic.

The class will begin at 6 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 2 on the lawn near the Master Gardener Demonstration Vegetable Garden north of the beautiful Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center, 2400 S. Scenic, Springfield, Mo.  There will be a host inside the Botanical Center to give directions to the class.

“You’ve cooked with it, now learn to grow it,” said class instructor and Missouri Master Naturalist Bob Kipfer. “Garlic is easy to grow, whether planting a few or creating an edible green border for you flower garden.”

Kipfer will teach on the difference between hard neck and soft neck garlic as well as heirloom varieties, garlic scapes,  planting,  harvesting,  cleaning and storing garlic.

“Inchelium Red has been the best strain and is available from several online sources like Filaree Farms,” said Kipfer.

A pound of seed garlic bulbs will yield about 40 plants.  Planting occurs in mid-September for a June harvest so it is time to order your garlic stock now.

“You don’t want to miss the opportunity to plant this fall and enjoy cooking with your own garlic harvest next summer,” said Kipfer.

For more information call (417) 881-8909 ext. 311 or go visit the Master Gardeners of Greene County online at www.mggreene.org.

The Master Gardener program is a popular statewide volunteer community-service organization administered through University of Missouri Extension. The organization’s goal is to train gardeners who are willing to share their knowledge with others. Master Gardeners become volunteers of University of Missouri Extension and donate hours for community educational projects in horticulture. Training in gardening and landscaping also leads to more spending in those areas. According to a 2005 story in Gardening Magazine, Springfield has the 3rd highest per capita spending on horticulture in the United States.  
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