Navarro County Agriculture

2011-04-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Grassfed Beef Conference Coming to Texas A&M
June 8 and 9

http://animalscience.tamu.edu/images/pdf/beef/Grassfed%20Conference%20Flyer.pdf

2011-04-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

Cattle Brand Renewal Starting September 1, 2011 through February 28, 2012, the Navarro County Clerks office will renew brands. If brands are not renewed by February 28, 2012 the brand becomes open to the public. The Navarro County Clerk office is on the first floor of the county courthouse. Questions? Call 903-654-3035.

2011-04-13T08:28:00.001-07:00

Wheat Field Day Set for April 28 8am to 11pm 3 CEU's are offered (1 IPM, 1 Laws, 1 General) $10 per person Don't miss this program. We will start at the Brandon Community Center with presentations on Laws and Regulations and a general wheat update from Dr. Rob Duncan, Extension Small Grains Specialist. We will then move the field (East of Mertens, TX on the side of Hwy 22 just east of the county line). We will view replicated variety plots, a plant population study, Canola and Flax. We will wrap up with updates from our two IPM Agents on insect and diseases. If you have questions give us a call at 903-654-3075

2010-11-23T11:57:00.001-08:00

Navarro County Pecan Show Set for December 2 and 3

The Extension Horticulture Committee will be hosting the 2010 Pecan Show on December 3, at the Corsicana Public Library, 100 N. 12th St. in Corsicana. The Pecan Show will demonstrate how to grade pecans for sale based upon the standards by which buyers set the price on marketable pecans. Entries from pecan growers including commercial growers, orchard managers and homeowners are welcomed and encouraged.

Participants are limited to one entry of each named variety they grow. The grower may enter as many varieties, seedlings, known hybrids or natives as desired. One special class, the smallest native, will also be a featured class. Sample entries from one orchard cannot be entered in two county shows. Pecans should be from Navarro County OR ADJOINING COUNTIES WHICH DO NOT HAVE A SHOW.

The exhibitor must be the grower. A minimum of 40 pecans, preferred 42, are necessary for each entry. This minimum sample of 40 should represent the variety and be uniform in size and shell color. Mixed samples (more than one variety in an entry) will be disqualified. The grower may wish to select the heaviest pecans by weighing individual nuts. A varietal entry may be composed of nuts from more than one tree. For example, if a grower has ten Choctaw trees, each tree could contribute nuts to the grower’s one Choctaw entry. Nuts should be without insect and disease damage. The pecans should be free of dust, dirt and shuck remnants. They should not be rubbed to the extent that shape or color is altered. Avoid discolored shells and kernels. This problem may result from peeling pecans from the shucks too early. Pecans exhibited must be from the 2010 crop.

Entries may be brought to the Navarro County Extension office by Wednesday, December 1, by 5pm. The office is located on the third floor of the Navarro County Courthouse or they may be brought to the Corsicana Public Library on Thursday, December 2, 2010 by 8:30am. Ribbons will be awarded to the first three entries in each variety. Champions will be named in the Commercial, Classic and Native divisions and plaques awarded. Awards will be presented on December 3 at 1pm in the Corsicana Library Civic Room and a presentation by Monte Nesbitt, Pecan Program Specialist, on the history of the pecan show, the current market situation and new pecan varieties will follow awards.

We encourage everyone to take the time to submit entries for the show and to include your name, address and variety on each entry. Thanks for interest and support of this endeavor.

QUESTIONS??? CALL 903-654-3075

2010-09-07T14:16:00.000-07:00

Tire Disposal Day set for September 24

Navarro County and the City of Corsicana are partnering up once again to offer a Tire Disposal Day to local residents. The event is scheduled for September 24 at the Navarro County Precinct 1 Barn. The facility is located at the northwest corner of the intersection of highway 31 and FM 2555. The program will begin at 7 am and conclude at 2 pm.

Only tires will be accepted on this day and that can include passenger, truck and tractor tires. A fee of $1.00 per tire (NO EXCEPTIONS) will be charged to help offset the escalating costs of this program. There are several General Rules and Regulations that will apply and residents are expected to be familiar with these stipulations prior to attending the event:

1. You MUST be a Navarro County Resident to dump at the Tire Disposal Event.
2. Residents MUST present a drivers license to validate county or city residency.
3. All loads MUST be firmly secured to trucks and/or trailers according to TCEQ regulations.
4. ABSOLUTELY NO commercial tire dealers or haulers will be allowed to dispose of tires and those that attempt to come through the line WILL be turned away.
5. Assistance will be available to unload tires.

If you have questions about this event please call 903-654-3075. This event is made possible by Navarro County, City of Corsicana, Trinity River Authority – Clean Rivers Program, Tarrant Regional Water District and other local sponsors and volunteers.

2010-09-07T13:55:00.000-07:00

Master Marketer Program Coming to Waco in 2011

The Master Marketer program is designed for agricultural producers and agribusiness leaders experienced in marketing commodities and having some knowledge of futures and options markets. The course contains 64 hours of intensive marketing training, focusing on cotton, wheat, livestock and feedgrains.

In 2011 it will be held at the Texas Farm Bureau Headquarters.

Session dates are:
I-January 11-13
II-January 26-27
III-February 9-10
IV-February 23-24

Marking education and training pay dividends that will directly improve your bottom line! Previous graduates report their incomes have increased on average more than $33,000 per year.

Want to know more?

http://mastermarketer.tamu.edu/

2010-07-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

Agricultural Waste Pesticide Collection Events

Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Texas Department of Agriculture have announced 2010 Agricultural Waste Pesticide Collection Events. These disposal programs allow agricultural producers to properly dispose of unwanted pesticides. According to the TCEQ website:

The free collections, conducted rain or shine, give agricultural producers who use pesticides in Texas an opportunity to dispose of unwanted products that may pose a hazard to them, their families, and their surrounding farming and ranching communities. The program is strictly voluntary and no one is required to participate. All this is done at no expense to them.
The participants do not have to identify themselves. However, there is a short survey in which the participants are asked questions similar to the ones listed below.
- What county are you from?
- How long has your waste been stored?
- How did you hear about today's event?
- What type of material are you bringing today?
The reason for asking the participant the fourth question–regarding the type of material brought in–is to determine how to properly handle it.

The closest event to Navarro County is to be held in Ellis County on Thursday, September 16 at the Ellis County Youth Expo Grounds. For a complete liest of events that will be held this September and October go to http://www.tceq.state.tx.us/assets/public/assistance/agwaste/FY_2011_schedule.pdf

2010-06-01T12:22:00.001-07:00

Brush Management Field Day Offering 5 CEU’s Set for June 11

Texas AgriLife Extension Service in Navarro County will host a Brush Management Field Day on June 11. The program is designed to assist landowners in making decisions about how and when to apply chemical and mechanical brush management practices. Brush species highlighted will include mesquite, cedar, cactus and others. The program will begin at 9am at the Navarro County Exposition Center. Topics will include: Using Pestman for Brush Control Decisions, Brush Species Ecology and Management, Mechanical Brush Control Options and Assistance from Federal Agencies. After lunch, we will travel to Tree Brand Ranches for a field tour that will include: chemical brush and weed plots, skid-steer demonstration for cut stump applications, three-point hitch grubbing attachment and other mechanical demonstrations. Representatives from Dow AgroSciences and Dupont will be on hand to discuss brush herbicides. Cost is $5 per person to cover the cost of the lunch. Please RSVP by June 8 at 903-654-3075.

2010-06-01T12:21:00.000-07:00

Texas Southwestern Cattle Raisers to Host Meeting June 3 Focusing on Cattle Theft Prevention and Membership

Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association will be hosting a Ranch Gathering on June 3 at the Navarro County Exposition Center. The meeting will focus on membership, protecting your property from theft and a legislative update for landowners. Presenters will include Jimmy Dickson, TSCRA Special Ranger and Eldon White, TSCRA Executive Director and CEO. The meeting will begin at 5:30 pm and offer a free steak dinner. Sponsors for the event include: Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Smith General Store, Brazos Valley Equipment, Hubbard Livestock, Bayer and Helena. If you are interested in attending please RSVP by June 1 to Brooke Boddy at 800-242-7820 ext. 192 or rsvp@texascattleraisers.org.

2010-05-17T08:44:00.000-07:00

Age Determination in Cattle

Determining the age of a cow can be an important factor in making decisions related to buying, culling, breeding, retaining, etc. Practices such as branding or tagging with ages are a good measure and can add value especially when selling bred cows. Unfortunately, many producers cannot or do not take the time for such practices (often times they may not be practical). Examination of the teeth can however provide an approximate age of a cow. This method evaluates the appearance of temporary and permanent teeth and the degree of wear. At maturity cattle have 32 teeth of which 8 are the incisors in the lower jaw which are typically evaluated. There are no upper incisors only a thick dental pad. Depending upon range and pasture conditions the degree of wear can vary. Cattle on sandy, rangeland type country typically wear quicker than cattle on higher clay content soil with improved pasture. Because this method is approximate it is important to note that it may not ascertain a cow’s biological age but rather gauge her youthfulness in terms of grazing ability. A second method to determine age would include looking at the brucellosis tattoo in the right ear. This would indicate the year the cow was a weaned calf. The first digit represents the quarter of the year it was tagged, the middle digits are a shield and the last number is the year vaccinated. A good resource and aging table can be accessed at http://www.avc-beef.org/AgingCattle-Griffin/AgingCattle-CL712.pdf.

2010-05-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

Average Home Could Collect 25,568 Gallons of Rainwater Annually

Have you ever wondered how much water comes off of your roof in a major rainfall event? What about over the course of a year? Let’s assume the average home in Navarro County is 1200 square feet and that the average rainfall is 38 inches annually. For every square foot (horizontal square foot not roof area) we collect 0.623 gallons per 1 inch of rain. So the average home would collect 747.6 gallons per 1 inch of rainfall. If we figure 38 inches annually and a 90% collection efficiency, then the average home could collect 25,568 gallons per year! That water could go to a variety of uses. As the state of Texas faces increased population growth and demand on water resources, rainwater may be making a comeback. Want to know more?

A Rainwater Harvesting Workshop is scheduled for Thursday, May 6 from 5:30pm to 8:30 pm at the Sumner Family Property, north of Blooming Grove, TX. Highlighting the event will be Dr. Dotty Woodson, Extension Specialist for Water Resources who will present on the basics of rainwater harvesting and guide us in putting together rainwater barrels. A limited number of rain barrels will be available for purchase on a first come, first serve basis. Also, as part of the program we will view a 3,000 gallon rainwater collection demonstration as well as a unique project that is funneling rainwater to a surface tank. Directions: Take Highway 22 to Blooming Grove, TX. On the east side of town, turn north onto Pecan Street (this turns into NWCR 1420). Go 1.2 miles and turn left into the drive, look for signs. RSVP by April 28th at 903-654-3075

2010-03-31T08:13:00.000-07:00

Cattle Artificial Insemination and Palpation Training
Corsicana Livestock Auction – Angus, TX
April 23 – 25, 2010
Limited to the first 20 paid registrants
$275 per person

Tentative Schedule
Friday – April 23, 2010
1pm – Registration
1:30 – Orientation and Introductions
2:00 – Body Condition Scoring Cattle
2:30 – Artificial Insemination Basics
3:00 – Synchronization
4:00 – Live Animal Work
6:00 – Adjourn for the evening

Saturday – April 24, 2010
9:00am – Coffee and Visit
9:30 - Semen Handling
10:15 – Live Animal Work
12:00 – Break for Lunch (provided)
1:00 – Heat Watch and Detection
2:00 – Live Animal Work
3:30 – Conclude AI Instruction
4:00 – BioPreg Check Presentation
5:00 – Anatomy & Physiology of the Reproductive Tract
6:00 – Palpation and Pregnancy Stages
7:00 pm – Adjourn for the evening

Sunday – April 25, 2010
1:00 pm – Examine Uteri Tracts
2:00 – Live Animal Work
4:30 – Final Questions and Discussion
5:00 pm – Course Adjourned

This is designed to be a low-cost yet high quality training. Presenters are experienced educators and/or practitioners in their respective areas. FYI, the cost per person will help defray the costs for cattle, materials and food. Call 903-654-3075 with questions.

For the flyer and registration form, go to http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu/newsletters/Spring%202010.pdf to page 3.

2010-03-31T08:12:00.000-07:00

Private Pesticide Applicator Training and Testing - April 13th

Tuesday, April 13
8am to 2pm
Corsicana Library Civic Room

This is the required 4 hour training that you must complete in order to obtain your private pesticide applicator license from the Texas Department of Agriculture.

Cost: $40 for study manuals available in the Extension office, please pick up before the training to familiarize yourself with the material

RSVP by April 7th at 903-654-3075

2010-03-31T08:11:00.001-07:00

Spring 2010 Newsletter is now online at http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu/newsletters/Spring%202010.pdf

2010-01-06T11:20:00.000-08:00

Cold and wet weather presents challenges for county producers!

The weather has been tough, especially when trying to feed cows... Does this look familiar?

2010-01-06T11:18:00.000-08:00

Row Crop Update and CEU Seminar
Friday - January 29, 2010
Corsicana Public Library – Civic Room
Cost: $5 (Lunch will be provided)
5 CEU’s will be provided (2 General, 2 IPM, 1 L&R)

Topics and Agenda
8:15 am Registration and Introductions
8:20 Corn, Grain Sorghum, Wheat, Oats and Soybean Demonstrations - Derek Scasta, Navarro County Extension Agent - Agriculture
8:45 Growing Soybeans and Sunflowers in the Blacklands - Steven Beakley, Ellis County Producer
9:45 Cotton and IPM Update - Glen Moore, Extension Agent IPM
10:45 Laws and Regulations - Benji Parham, Texas Department of Agriculture
11:45 Lunch
12:15 Weed Control and Herbicide Tolerant Milo - Dr. Paul Baumman, Texas AgriLife Extension Service
1:15 Sprayer Technology, GPS, Nozzle Selection and Sprayer Demo - Johnny Walker, John Deere
2:15 Final Questions and pass out certificates

**Please call and RSVP by January 26, 2010 at 5pm for meal and material arrangements**

2009-11-20T14:00:00.000-08:00

Do you need CEU's? - Don't Miss the Multi-County CEU Workshop
December 9, 2009
Fairfield Civic Center @ 839 East Commerce in Fairfield, TX
$35/person
8am – 1pm

5 CEU’s Offered !
(2 IPM, 2 General and 1 Laws & Regs)

TOPICS
- Aquatic Weed Control
- Forage Legume Management
- Weed Management in Pastures
- Insect Management in Pastures
- Reading Pesticide Labels

Call 903-654-3075 to RSVP by December 5, 2009

2009-11-20T13:59:00.000-08:00

Navarro County Agriculture News and Views Newsletter Online
Winter - 2009

http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu/newsletters/Winter%202009%20PDF.pdf

2009-11-20T13:56:00.000-08:00

Navarro County Pecan Grading Demonstration & Conference

Corsicana Library Conference Room
December 2, 2009 - 1pm to 3pm
2 CEU’s (1 IPM and 1 General)

Participants will learn how to grade pecans for sale based upon the standards by which buyers set the price on marketable pecans.

RULES
Who is Eligible: Commercial growers, orchard managers and homeowners

Entry Limit: Limit one entry per variety per participant. Enter as many varieties, seedlings, known hybrids or natives and smallest native as desired. The exhibitor must be the grower. Sample entries from one orchard cannot be entered in two county shows. Pecans should be from Navarro County or adjoining counties which do not have a show.

Entry Size: A minimum of 40 pecans, preferred 42, are necessary for each entry. Sample of 40 should represent the variety and be uniform in size and shell color. * Mixed samples (more than one variety in an entry) will be disqualified.

Selecting Your Entry: The growers may wish to select the heaviest pecans by weighing individual nuts. A varietal entry may be composed of nuts from more than one tree. For example, if the grower has ten Choctaw trees, each tree could contribute nuts to the grower’s one Choctaw entry. Nuts should be without insect and disease damage. The pecans should be free of dust, dirt and shuck remnants. They should not be rubbed to the extent that shape or color is altered. Avoid discolored shells and kernels. This problem may result from peeling pecans from the shucks too early. Pecans exhibited must be from the 2009 crop. Name, Address and Variety should be included with each entry.

Deadline: By Monday, November 30, 5pm to Navarro County Extension office or to Corsicana Public Library on Tuesday by 8:30 am on December 1, 2009

Awards: Ribbons will be awarded at 1 pm on December 2 to the first three entries in each variety. Champions will be named in the Commercial, Classic and Native divisions. Entries and results of the Pecan Grading demonstration will be on display for public viewing on Tuesday, December 2.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM AND CEU’S: Following the 1 pm results on December 2, two educational programs will be offered. Dr. Tommy Thompson, USDA Pecan Breeding Specialist will provide a discussion on variety selection, quality and management. Dr. Allen Knutson, Texas AgriLife Extension Entomologist will then provide an update on pest management options for the home and commercial producer.

2009-10-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

Technology Tip: Oklahoma State University – Cowculator v2.0

When it comes to making winter feeding decisions for the cow herd it is easy to get overwhelmed. The numbers can be mind numbing! When you look at prices, amounts, crude protein, nutrition requirements, days in the feeding period, cow size, desired daily gain, body condition score, etc they all start to run together and make your head hurt. Oklahoma State University, the land-grant agricultural institution in Oklahoma, has a computer based program that assists producers in summarizing the data, comparing options and making a decision. This program was recently highlighted at the Texas A&M Beef Cattle Shortcourse in a powerpoint presentation that you can view (http://animalscience.tamu.edu/ansc/BCSC/BCSC09%20Nutrition%20Management%20Section.pdf).

According to the website: “OSU Cowculator is an excel program designed to assist cattlemen in making informed decisions associated with beef cow nutrition. Animal criteria (such as cow weight, body condition, stage of production and breed), as well as the feed and forage library can be customized to each operation or to specific scenarios within an operation. Animal requirements and performance predictions are based on years of research data, including the 1996 and previous versions of the National Research Council's Nutrient Requirements of Beef Cattle. Cowculator can be used as a decision making tool for individual operations and is especially useful as a teaching tool.”

The program is free to download onto your personal computer. You will need Microsoft Excel to operate it. It is very user friendly and allows you to compare different feeding options such as range cubes versus whole cottonseed versus cottonseed meal. When using make sure prices are in-line with local prices to ensure accurate cost analysis. You can download the program and a user handbook at http://www.ansi.okstate.edu/exten/cowculator/.

2009-10-21T06:15:00.000-07:00

Online Pasture Management Web-Course Starts November 2nd

I will be leading an online web-course covering Pasture Management starting November 2. This is a great opportunity to access technical training at the university level. The course has been developed by Texas A&M University and Texas AgriLife Extension Service Specialists. Topics will cover Nutritive Value and Quality, Stocking Rate, Hay Storage and Feeding and Forage Establishment. The cost is $50 and those interested can visit the Small Acreage Landowner Webcourse site at http://grovesite.com/page.asp?o=tamu&s=RI&p=227590.

Landowners can register for the courses at http://agrilifevents.tamu.edu/.
The course will be accessed (once you register) from http://campus.extension.org/. Other courses include: Resource Inventory, Beef Cattle Management, and Introduction to Enterprise Budgeting.

Questions? 903-654-3075 or jdscasta@ag.tamu.edu

2009-10-21T06:13:00.000-07:00

Fall Forage Workshop Set for October 29 at Fannie Mae Vernon Room

Cattle and hay producers in Navarro County will want to mark October 29 on their calendars for the annual Fall Forage Workshop. The program will begin at 6pm and run until 8:30. Topics for the evening include: Dr. Larry Redmon, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Forage Specialist providing an update on pasture management and soil fertility; Kelly Cross, Fort Dodge Animal Health will then provide an update on Trichomoniasis management and how to integrate a vaccine into your program. We will also have updates on a pasture result demonstration and results from the Hay Testing Drive (which include forage analysis and supplemental feeding recommendations).

2 CEU’s will be offered in (1 General and 1 IPM) for producers with Texas Department of Agriculture Pesticide Applicator Licenses. Cost is $5 per person for a BBQ meal. Sponsors for the 2009 Hay Testing Drive and Fall Forage Workshop include: Ag Texas Farm Credit Services, Community National Bank, Forrest Green Polled Herefords, JPM Company, Kerens Grain and Elevator, Rosewood Ranches, Texas Land Bank, Vitters Tractor and Williams Gin and Grain. Please call 903-64-3075 to RSVP by October 26.

2009-09-14T13:16:00.000-07:00

Navarro County Hay Testing Drive Set for October 1st

Each year brings about its own set of challenges and 2009 has been no different. A dry fall/winter, a late April freeze and sporadic rainfall have presented challenges to producing hay. However, one tool we can use year-in and year-out is testing our hay for quality. Knowing the quality of our hay will enable ranchers to make wise decisions in supplementing their livestock herds this winter. To address this issue the Navarro County Extension Livestock Committee will sponsor the Navarro County Hay Testing Drive and Fall Forage Seminar.

Any livestock producer in the county may submit up to two samples of any type of hay for a crude protein analysis at no charge. Additional samples may be submitted for analysis at a cost of $5.00 per sample for coastal or a legume or $10.00 for sudan, johnsongrass or cool season annuals. Sampling of the hay will be conducted by members of the Extension Livestock Forage subcommittee and sent to the Extension Forage Testing Laboratory in College Station for analysis. Samples will be received at the Precinct 1 County barn located at the intersection of W. Hwy 31 and FM 2555 on Thursday, October 1 from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 noon. Prior to October 1, samples may be left @ Williams Gin and Grain in Frost, the Kerens Grain and Elevator in Kerens or at JPM Co. in Dawson.

Samples may be submitted from any type of hay or bale. Samples should weigh at least 10-15 pounds whether taken from square bales, large round bales or other types of bales. Samples should be put in large plastic trash bags and tied. Each sample should include the following information: the producer name, sample identification number, mailing address, telephone number, type of hay and which cutting the sample is from. The forms which may be used for your entries are on the back of this letter.

Results of the crude protein analysis and feed value will be on display at the Fall Forage Seminar on Tuesday, October 29, 2009. Speakers and topics for the program will include Dr. Larry Redmon, Texas AgriLife Research Scientist to discuss Nutrient Availability and the Economics of Grazing and Haying Systems and a speaker representing Fort Dodge Animal Health to discuss their Trichomoniasis vaccine. Additional information will be provided on results from a pasture shredding and renovating/harrowing demonstration.

The program will be held in the Fannie Mae Vernon Room of the Navarro County Expo Center beginning at 6:00 p.m. with a chili supper and 2 CEU’s will be offered. This is an excellent opportunity to get your hay tested and design your supplemental feeding system. Please RSVP at 903-654-3075 by Oct 21 so arrangements for meal and seating can be made.

Contact me at 903-654-3075 or jdscasta@ag.tamu.edu.

2009-09-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

Grazing Management and Stockmanship Workshop Set for September 25 in Corsicana, TX

When it comes to beef cattle production, reducing animal stress can increase animal performance and the profitability of an operation. With that in mind, a Grazing Management and Stockmanship Workshop will be held in Corsicana at the Navarro County Exposition Center on Friday, September 25. The program will start at 8:30 am and run until 3:30 pm and cost is $10 per person to cover the steak lunch and materials. If you are a ranch owner or manager, day worker, horse owner or have any interest in working cattle and beef production you will want to make plans to attend this program.

Presenters and topics for the day include the following: Dr. Dennis Sigler, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Equine Specialist, will kick the program off by discussing grazing strategies and impacts of horses and the unique nutritional needs of horses. Mark Moseley, Texas State Grazing Land Conservation Initiative Coordinator and Range Management Specialist with USDA-NRCS, will then cover grazing management for beef cattle operations. Stacy Fox, Members Program Managers for Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, will then discuss Trichomoniasis in Texas and regulations that producers need to be aware of. This is a timely issue as this bovine disease may be more prevalent in the state of Texas than previously thought and compliance will be critical. At 11:15am, the program will then break for a Trade Show and a steak lunch cooked by Third Avenue Meat Market - Corsicana.

Following lunch, the program will move to the enclosed livestock arena and receive hands-on instruction from Curt Pate and Dr. Ron Gill on effective stockmanship and low stress cattle handling. Curt Pate is a stockmanship instructor, lifelong rancher and was selected three years in a row as the AQHA Clinician of the year. Dr. Ron Gill serves as a Livestock Specialist with Texas AgriLife Extension Service and is a lifelong cattleman. Demonstrations will be conducted horseback using live cattle. Wrapping up the day we will have a chute side demonstration and focus on tips and methods to reduce stress when working cattle through a chute and headgate.

Sponsors for the program include: Texas AgriLife Extension Service, United States Department of Agriculture - Natural Resource Conservation Service, Texas State Grazing Land Conservation Initiative, Blackland Prairie GLCI, Central Texas Quarter Horse Association, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers, Bluebonnet RC&D and Leon-Bosque RC&D, Purina, Midcontinent Livestock Supplements, Miraco, Merial, Tru-Test, Priefert, AQHA, Livestock Marketing Association, National Cattleman’s Beef Association and the Beef Checkoff. If you are interested please RSVP by 9/21 at 903-654-3075 or jdscasta@ag.tamu.edu. For the full flier, information about presenters and map/directions to the facility go to http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu -> "Grazing & Stockmanship Workshop". More information about Curt Pate and Ron Gill is also available at www.effectivestockmanship.com.

2009-08-25T09:10:00.000-07:00

Quail Restoration Workshop Set for September 4th

Have you ever wondered what happened to quail in Texas? It seems like not to long ago there were bobwhite quail all over the central part of the state. What happened and what can we do to improve the current situation? On Friday, September 4 we will discuss just that at a Quail Restoration Workshop held in Navarro County. The program will be located at the Shadow Mountain Ranch, southwest of Blooming Grove, TX. Starting at 8:30 we will hear from the President of the Western Navarro Bobwhite Restoration Initiative or WNBRI, Jimmy Stewart and Sharron Lane, owner of Shadow Mountain Ranch and WNBRI cooperator. Jim Willis from the WW Ranch in southeast Texas will shed some light on his restoration efforts and then Dr. Dale Rollins, Extension Wildlife Specialist from San Angelo, will talk about the demise of quail and quail biology. Sara Robinson from Audubon Society will discuss the Quail and Grassland Bird Iniative, Jay Whiteside with TPWD and WNBRI Advisor will highlight the WNBRI program. Derek Scasta, Navarro County Extension Agent for Agriculture will then discuss Brush Sculpting and we will view a brush sculpting project on the ranch. Then the group will head to a range restoration sight where cropland was converted to native prairie. Jay Whiteside will discuss Rangeland Planting Techniques and plant ID. Finally, Jeff Goodwin, USDA-NRCS Range Management Specialist, will highlight Grazing management to optimize bobwhite habitat. This looks to be a tip-top program that you will not want to miss. To RSVP and reserve your spot and your meal call 903-654-3075 by September 1st. For the flier log on to http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu –>Publications –> Events –> Quail Restoration Workshop.

2009-07-10T14:12:00.000-07:00

Considerations for Calving Season Management

Do you have cows calving year round or do you have calves coming during a set time interval during the year? Common practice is to allow the bull to run with the cow herd year round and to not limit breeding (i.e., Year-Round Breeding and Calving). Ultimately, this results in year round calving and has several management implications that can ultimately impact profit margins. The alternative would be to control the breeding period for 60-90 days and have a time-limited calving season (i.e., Controlled Breeding and Calving). Dr. Jason Cleere, Texas AgriLife Extension Service, Beef Cattle Specialist gave the following considerations at the 2009 Ranch Tour for calving season management.

In terms of Management (Parasite Control, Vaccination, Castration, Dehorning, Implanting, Weaning, etc) in a Controlled program you would process cattle 2-3 times per year versus a Year-Round program where you would process cattle 3+ times annually and ultimately face increased operating expenses. In terms of Animal Nutrition, in a Controlled program you can manage cattle similarly and can match rebreeding and calving periods to periods of optimum forage production. Conversely, in a Year-Round program you would be managing dry cows and wet cows separately due to different nutritional requirements and calving and rebreeding of some cows would occur when forage production was not optimum and increased supplementation is necessary. In terms of Marketing Opportunities, a Controlled program provides a uniform calf crop in terms of age and provides more marketing power. A Year-Round program would have cattle being marketed at different times due to lighter weights among your later calves. In terms of Reproductive Efficiency, a Controlled program allows a producer to identify cows that do not drop a calf every 365 days versus a Year-Round program which provide limited ability to identify cows with low reproductive performance that aren’t earning their keep.

Ultimately, a controlled calving season allows a producer to maximize the utilization of energy and resources on the ranch. It provides increased marketing advantages and power and can enhance profit margins. Controlled calving season also increases the efficiency of the managers time and labor by managing similar situations during set time periods during the year (examples include: supplemental feeding, trips to the sale barn, calving cows, etc). Controlled calving presents challenges in terms of deciding what to do with the herd bulls when not with the cow herd. Options might include: using electric fencing, sharing/borrowing/leasing bulls, running multiple cow herds with different calving seasons and rotating bulls, etc.

2009-07-10T11:53:00.001-07:00

County Wheat and Oat Demonstration Plot Yields Are In!
One of the pillars of Texas AgriLife Extension Service programming is field demonstrations that show results. This goes back to the old adage, “Don’t just tell me, show me!”. One of the types of demonstrations that are regularly conducted in Navarro County are variety trials that provide unbiased yield data on certain crops in order to assist producers in selecting the most productive and disease resistant variety for the following year. Today I want to share information and results on our recently harvested wheat and oat demonstration plots.
The wheat variety demonstration was planted with Caleb and Josh Martin in Frost, TX on October 27, 2008 using a John Deere 8300 drill planting at 95 pounds per acre following corn. Fertilizer applications included 100 pounds of 18-46-0 on October 24, 2008 and later topdressed with 350 pounds of 32-0-0. Pest management was accomplished using Lorsban and 2,4-D. For the hard varieties the plots average 64.3 bushels per acre (bu/ac) with Duster having the highest yield with 78.3 bu/ac followed by Fuller at 75.4 bu/ac and Jackpot at 73.8 bu/ac. TAM401 yielded 65.6 bu/ac followed by TAM203 at 65.3 bu/ac and Coronado at 58.6 bu/ac. The bottom two hard varieties were TAM304 at 39.9 bu/ac and Fannin at 39.9 bu/ac. For the soft varieties the plots averaged 54.7 bu/ac with USD 3295 having the highest yield with 84.0 bu/ac followed by Coker 9553 at 61.8 bu/ac followed by LA841 at 55.4 bu/ac. The three lowest yields were Crawford at 46.3 bu/ac, Coker 9700 at 41.8 bu/ac and Heavy Grazer at 38.7 bu/ac. The location of these plots allowed for avoidance of frost damage that severely affected many wheat acres in the county this year. The yields are not adjusted for moisture due technical difficulties with the moisture tester. Thanks to Caleb and Josh Martin for planting and harvesting the 2009 Navarro County wheat variety demonstration.
The oat variety demonstration was planted with the Reed family in Barry, TX on November 20, 2008 u sing a Great Plains Solid Stand 13 Drill at 95 pounds per acre following soybeans. Fertilizer applications included 200 pounds of 32-0-0 and 50 pounds of 18-46-0. The average yield was 87.5 bu/ac with Horizon 201 having the highest yield of 110.0 bu/ac followed by TAMO406 at 95.9 bu/ac and TX7682 at 93.8 bu/ac. The bottom four yields were TX 7473 at 86.7 bu/ac, Horizon 314 at 84.5 bu/ac, TAMO405 at 74.6 bu/ac and TAMO606 at 67.4 bu/ac. All yields were adjusted to 13% moisture for comparison. Thanks to Joe, Scott, Jacob, Russell and Pat Reed for planting the 2009 Navarro County oat variety demonstration. Also thanks to Brandon and Zane Nicholson of Barry for providing the combine to harvest the oat plots and to Dekalb for the use of the weigh wagon used for both wheat and oat plots.

2009-07-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

Economical Considerations for Conservation Tillage

Field trials were conducted from 2003 to 2008 at the Stiles Farm Foundation in Thrall, TX to assess the economics of No-Till, Strip-Till and Conventional Tillage farming practices. These trials evaluated the yields and net profits of each practice for several different crop rotations.

CORN/CORN ROTATION
No-Till - Yield 87.62 bu/ac - Net Profit $73.76
Strip Till - Yield 93.79 bu/ac - Net Profit $80.81
Conventional - Yield 93.70 bu/ac - Net Profit $57.09

COTTON/CORN ROTATION
No-Till - Yield 78.14 bu/ac - Net Profit $37.37
Strip-Till - Yield 85.02 bu/ac - Net Profit $47.31
Conventional - Yield 79.35 bu/ac - Net Profit $(-6.91)

CORN/COTTON ROTATION
No-Till - Yield 574.4 #/ac - Net Profit $13.80
Strip-Till - Yield 629.3 #/ac - Net Profit $36.20
Conventional - Yield 678.0 #/ac - Net Profit $19.04

SORGHUM/COTTON ROTATION
No-Till - Yield 649 #/ac - Net Profit $67.67
Strip-Till - Yield 691 #/ac - Net Profit $73.94
Conventional - Yield 737 #/ac - Net Profit $77.29

COTTON/SORGHUM ROTATION*
No-Till - Yield 4739 #/ac - Net Profit $103.10
Strip-Till - Yield 5025 #/ac - Net Profit $112.17
Conventional - Yield 5228 #/ac - Net Profit $110.67

*5 years data due to sorghum blown down in windstorm in 2005

2009-05-29T06:22:00.000-07:00

Consider Hay Storage Options Carefully

Many producers in the county are cutting, raking and baling hay right now. The good spring we have experienced has provided a decent hay crop. It does seem however as if our forages have struggled some due to the hard fall and winter in terms of root storage and recovery and hay yields are a bit lower in terms of biomass than expected. All in all though the hay crop is coming along okay. Now with hay being such a precious and expensive commodity to produce it is important to consider how you will store it in order to minimize losses. A recent University of Tennessee trial compared different methods of storing large round bales of grass hay. The hay was cut and baled in June in Moore County, TN. Bales were weighed at the time of harvest and storage and then weighed again the following January at the time of winter feeding. The following results show the type of storage method used and the percentage hay loss.

On Ground, No Cover - 37% loss
On Tires, No Cover - 29% loss
On Ground, Covered - 29% loss
Net Wrap, On Ground - 19% loss
On Tires, Covered - 8% loss
In Barn - 6% loss

When looking at these percentages lets put them into a little better perspective: 37% loss on a 1,000 pound bale is 370 pounds versus 6% loss which is 60 pounds. That is very significant. Lossess can be significant depending on the type of storage. This information also indicates that storage losses occur from moisture getting into both the top AND bottom of the bales. If hay can't be stored in a barn, the next best option it to at least get the hay off the ground and under a tarp or plastic cover. So as you start to store hay this spring and summer think about storage options and protect your hay investment.

2009-05-08T08:11:00.000-07:00

Navarro County Ranch Tour Planned for June 11, 2009

Come join us for a tour of the Fullerton Ranch located in Corbet, TX. The Fullerton Ranch is a Red Angus operation specializing in replacement heifers. The ranch utilizes rotational grazing and puts emphasis on calving season management. Highlights of the tour will focus on weed control options, heifer development, calving season management and marketing alternatives and strategies. From Corsicana, take Highway 31 west and turn south on FM 2452 and travel 1.7 miles, red gate entrance on the left.

Agenda:
5:00 pm – Registration
5:15 – Hay Pasture Weed Control Demonstration Plots – Tuffy Loftin
5:45 – Heifer Development (Live Cattle) and Calving Season – Dr. Jason Cleere
6:45 – Prickly Pear Control: Individual Plant Treatment – Jeff Goodwin
7:10 - Grazing Pasture Weed Control Demonstration Plots – Tuffy Loftin
7:30 – Dinner and Livestock Marketing Strategies – Dr. David Anderson
8:15 pm – Questions and Adjourn

2 CEU’s offered (1 General and 1 IPM)

Cost: $10/head

Call and RSVP at 903-654-3075 by June 8, 2009

2009-05-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

ACRE Decision Aid Education Program

A joint program between Navarro and Ellis Counties will be offered to educate producers on the new ACRE program and to show them the recently developed ACRE Decision Aid Program. Dr. Joe Outlaw with the Texas A&M Agricultural and Food Policy Center will be present to present information on the new tool and answer questions. The program will be held on Tuesday, May 19 at the KJT Hall in Ennis, TX (located at 1216 South Paris Street) from 10 am to 12 noon. Lunch will be provided and cost is $5 per person to cover the costs of the facilities and lunch. Please RSVP prior to May 15th at 903-654-3075 or 972-825-5175.

2009-05-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

ACRE Decision Aid Program Ready for Use

Texas A&M University's Agricultural and Food Policy Center has developed a web-based decision aid to assist producers in comparing the old CCP program to the new ACRE program. ACRE stands for Average Crop Revenue Election and is an option under the new farm bill. Producers will be faced with a decision to choose one option or the other. According to a recent TAMU AgNews article, "The tool will help producers in deciding whether to continue receiving counter-cyclical payments (CCP) triggered during times of low prices, or opt for a revenue-based payment known as Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) triggered by low prices and/or yields". For the full article go to http://agnews.tamu.edu/showstory.php?id=1142.

For the decision aid program go to http://www.afpc.tamu.edu/models/acre/index.php

2009-04-29T09:40:00.000-07:00

Swine Flu: Facts, Avoidance and Considerations for Swine Owners

The recent publicity surrounding cases of swine flu in the U.S. and Mexico has raised the awareness of employees and prompted questions about appropriate workplace cautions. The following information, taken from the Center for Disease Control's website, is provided to address some of these questions and to provide a resource for further investigation by concerned employees. Flu vaccines administered in fall 2008 and winter 2009 do not protect against swine flu so it is important to minimize exposure and practice good health habits to reduce your chances of becoming ill.

Facts - People cannot get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Most influenza viruses, including the swine flu virus, are not spread by food. Eating properly handled and cooked pork products is safe. No food safety issues have been identified, related to the flu. Preliminary investigations have determined that none of the people infected with the flu had contact with hogs. The virus is spreading by human-to-human transmission.

Here are some examples of steps you can take to manage your risk of infection:

1. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or carry a small-size, alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use it often. You can purchase alcohol-based hand sanitizer at any local pharmacy or grocery store.
2. Keep your hands away from your mouth, nose and eyes.
3. Don't eat, drink or smoke after others.
4. Cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve so viruses are trapped in the fabric of your clothing and so you do not contaminate your hands. If you cough into a tissue, throw it in a wastebasket immediately. Don't lay it on a surface that others might touch. Wash or sanitize your hands as soon a possible.
5. Avoid close contact with people who are ill and stay home when you are sick.

Simple actions such as these can reduce the chances of you contracting this and other illnesses. Further information specific to swine flu can be found at the following URL's:

If you own swine, consider the following practices to enhance the biosecurity on your farm to prevent the disease from being transmitted to your herd:
1. Workers should shower and change into farm-specific clothes and shoes before entering swine facilities.
2. Establish, implement and enforce strict sick leave policies for workers presenting influenza-like symptoms.
3. Recommend that workers with symptoms be seen by a medical provider immediately.
4. Restrict the entry of people into your facility to only workers and essential service personnel.
5. Prevent international visitors from entering your facilities.
6. Ensure adequate ventilation in facilities to minimize re-circulation of air inside animal housing facilities.
7. Vaccinate pigs against the influenza virus. Vaccination of pigs can reduce the levels of virus shed by infected animals
8. Contact your swine veterinarian if swine exhibit flu-like or respiratory illness, especially if the onset or presentation of the illness is unusual.
9. Notify your Texas Animal Health Commission area office or the Austin headquarters at 800-550-8242, after you have contacted your veterinarian.
The Texas Animal Health Commission is ready to assist with on-farm investigations, if pigs are present where a known human case has occurred, and to assist with epidemiological investigations with any human cases that may have links to swine in Texas.

Resources
· Center for Disease Control: http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
· Texas Department of State Health Services: www.dshs.state.tx.us\swineflu
· Texas Extension Disaster Education Network (EDEN): http://texashelp.tamu.edu/004-natural/disease-and-epidemic.php

2009-04-17T08:17:00.001-07:00

Native Prairie Restoration Workshop Presents a Unique Educational Opportunity on May 29, 2009

Friday, May 29 a workshop focusing on Native Prairie Restoration will be held at the Clymer Meadow Preserve. This will be a unique and inter-active educational program that will provide a broad amount of information that can be used by landowners and managers. Topics of discussion will include: History of the Blackland Prairie, Value of Native Rangeland, Native Grass from a Landowners Perspective, Clymer Grassland Management, Cost Share Programs and Assistance, Restoration Techniques, Follow-Up Management, and Restoration Equipment. Presenters will include landowners, practitioners and educators. For the full flier go to http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/landwater/land/private/media/prairie_restoration_workshop_clymer09.pdf

2009-04-17T08:15:00.000-07:00

Recent Frosts Damage County Wheat Crop

Producers in Navarro County had hopes for the ‘09 wheat crop but the recent frost received around April 7 is starting to reveal its impact. Wheat in this area had come through a very challenging fall and winter as conditions were extremely dry. Timely rains received in March provided the chance to salvage the wheat crop but a late frost may hamper yields on many fields. The extent of the freeze injury in wheat can be highly dependent upon location of the field and associated topography and elevation. The lower lying areas seem to be exhibiting more extensive and severe injury. The stage of growth of the wheat crop can also determine how hard hit the crop was. When evaluating wheat heads for injury here are a few things to look for: Color - healthy heads would normally exhibit a light green color at this time of year; affected heads will be a dull yellow to white color. As things progress it may become more obvious in the field. Typically, kernel development stops immediately after freeze damage and damaged kernels are grayish white, rough and shriveled. Fluid - healthy heads and kernels in the milk to early dough stage will have a whitish fluid that can be squeezed from the kernel while damaged kernels may contain a gray to brownish liquid or no fluid at all. Physical signs may also be apparent in the awns as they may be twisted and bleached white. For more information on freeze injury in wheat go to http://varietytesting.tamu.edu/wheat/docs/mime-4.pdf. Some freeze injury has been seen in corn but it is very limited and not as widespread as the wheat damage. As we move forward many adjusters will be looking at insured wheat fields to further assess the damage from this late frost.

2009-03-31T14:48:00.000-07:00

Wheat and Oat Field Day Set for April 23

April 23, 9am to noon, this is a joint effort between Hill and Navarro Counties with four demonstrations setup from Barry to Brandon. Demonstrations include: oat variety trial, 2 wheat variety trials and a wheat plant population study. 3 CEU’s will be offered: 2 General and 1 L&R. If you grow wheat or oats, this will be a tour that you will not want to miss.

Schedule
9:15 am – #1 Oat Variety Plots – Reed Farms - Barry, TX
10:00 am – #2 Wheat Variety Plots – Martin Farms – Frost, TX
10:45 am – #3 Wheat Variety Plots – Degner Farms – Mertens, TX
11:15 am – #4 Wheat Plant Population Study – Surovik Farms – Brandon, TX
12:00 pm – #5 Lunch at Brandon Community Center
· Texas Wheat Producers Association Presentation – Kody Bessent – Lubbock, TX
· Laws and Regulations Presentation

*Dr. Gaylon Morgan, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Small Grains Specialist will be on hand to provide updates on varieties, diseases, conditions and yields.

Remember 3 CEU’s will be offered (2 General and 1 Laws and Regulations)

Please call and RSVP to 903-654-3075 or 254-582-4022 by 5pm April 21st.

2009-03-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

Calculating Break-Even Costs for Row Crop Producers and Market Reports

At Row Crop Commodity Marketing Training, held in mid-February we received assistance from Extension Agricultural Economists on calculating break-even costs for certain row crops. Calculating your break-even cost can be the critical first step to developing your marketing plan. By knowing your costs of production and the yields and commodity prices needed to break-even or "stay out of the red" you can then set price goals. This will help you know when to move on an opportunity to sell when the price is sufficient to cover your costs. One mistake producers make is to watch the price go up, up, up and never pull the trigger. As it goes up you may decide to sell a percentage of your crop here and there when you know it is profitable. It may not be the most profitable but it can help you to avoid a loss if and when prices drop.

To access the Microsoft Excel spreadsheets used go to the following website:
http://agfacts.tamu.edu/~lfalcone/newweb/cropbudgets.htm

To access the spreadsheet we developed specifically for dryland corn in Navarro County go to:
http://navarro-co.tamu.edu/pubcat.cfm?COUNTY=Navarro&CatID=2021 and click on "Corn Break Even Spreadsheet"

Also, for the latest Market Outlook Reports from Texas AgriLife Extension Service Agriculture Economists go to: http://agecoext.tamu.edu/resources/market-outlook.html

2009-03-11T09:24:00.000-07:00

New Trichomoniasis Program Adopted in Texas for Beef Cattle

If you are a cattle producer but don’t know what Trichomoniasis (commonly called Trich) is, then you soon will. According to a recent Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) report, Texas has adopted a Trichomoniasis regulatory program. Beginning April 1, 2009, breeding bulls entering Texas from any other state must be either 24 months of age or younger and certified as a virgin, or be tested negative for cattle trichomoniasis within 30 days prior to entry. The adoption of this program occurred February 24 by the Texas Animal Health Commission to address Trichomoniasis which is a venereal disease in cattle that causes infertility and abortions. Other effects of the disease include extended breeding seasons, reduced calf crops and ultimately loss of income to producers. A second phase of the program will go into effect January 1, 2010 and will address the in-state movement of Texas breeding bulls. Part of the reason for the new program is when breeding bulls are infected, they may continue to appear and act normally. The new regulations also have deemed Trich as a reportable disease in the state of Texas. According to Dr. Bob Hillman, TAHC executive director, "... this will give us more information on where and how much infection already is in the state". Why aren’t cows included in this program you might ask? The reason is if a cow is infected during breeding and loses a fetus she still has a chance to clear the disease. A majority of infected cows will clear the infection if they are given 120 to 150 days of sexual rest. A vaccine can also be administered to infected cows to help control the disease in the cow herd. For more details on this subject and to read the entire Texas Animal Health Commission report go online to http://www.tahc.state.tx.us/news/pr/2009/2009Feb_TrichomoniasisProgramAdopted.pdf

2009-02-27T13:11:00.000-08:00

What should my stocking rate be?

One of the most common questions I get is what kind of stocking rate is appropriate for my property. When we consider stocking rates for beef cattle we have to remember that one lactating, thousand pound cow will consume 2.5% to 3% of her body weight or roughly 25 to 30 pounds of air dry forage daily. 1 cow/calf pair is an animal unit (AU). A good rule of thumb is to “take half and leave half” but we have to account for another quarter of the forage that will get trampled, wasted, decompose, etc. So estimate based on 25% of forage production for a conservative stocking rate in an average rainfall year. So a thousand pound cow with a calf at her side will eat approximately 26 pounds of forage daily or 9,490 pounds per year.

Improved pasture differs greatly than native rangeland in terms of stocking rate due to management of fertility, weeds, etc. General stocking rates for Navarro County are 1 AU per 3-5 acres of fertilized improved pasture and 1 AU per 10-12 acres of rangeland BUT depend on location and management.

The only way to truly know what your appropriate stocking rate, is to quantify your forage production (clip and weigh grass or forage plots) and then base a stocking rate on the traditional range management principles and allow for variations in rainfall. A good stocking rate is the first step to good range management and sustainable agriculture. For more information go to the following web address: http://animalscience.tamu.edu/images/pdf/beef/beef-rdmt-stocking-rate.pdf

2009-02-06T08:19:00.000-08:00

Result Demonstration Reports Available Online

You may not be familiar with the term result demonstration. This is an effort to demonstrate or evaluate certain agricultural practices under local conditions and obtain unbiased data to assist farmers, ranchers and other land managers. These can take a variety of forms or designs and fall into many different categories (field crops, forage crops, beef, horticulture, Integrated Pest Management, etc). The data gathered from these demonstrations can be used by agricultural producers to make management decisions that will ideally optimize profits, serve as a best management practice and conserve natural resources. This can best be described as "on the farm research" where an agricultural producer, county agent and a specialist work together to implement a demonstration and evaluate it.

These reports are available from a variety of sources: demonstration handbooks, cd's and internet websites. Reports from Navarro County agricultural demonstrations are currently available on the internet at http://navarro-tx.tamu.edu/PubCat.cfm?COUNTY=Navarro&CatID=2827. As these reports become available they will be posted here. Other reports from across the state are also available online. A good website for field crop and specialty crop reports is http://varietytesting.tamu.edu/.

It is always important when using this kind of information to compare different locations over time (over several years if possible). The more information you have, the more you can rely on your management decision.

Picture by Derek Scasta

2009-01-13T13:33:00.000-08:00

Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) Certification Now Offered Online

Have you ever heard of BQA or Beef Quality Assurance. Well if you haven’t BQA is part of the the Texas Beef Quality Producer Program (TBQP) and is designed to promote good management practices for cattle producers in an effort to strengthen consumer confidence in beef as a wholesome food product. The TBQP management strategies "prevent" problems related to quality and safety from ever occurring - rather than correcting them. The main focus of the program is food safety. Eliminating residues, blemishes and foreign objects is critical to maintaining consumer confidence and acceptance of beef as the protein of choice in their diet. Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) is a national effort with 47 states involved. It has now become easier than ever to get BQA certification. Now training is available online at http://www.bqaonline.org/
Producers an go thru this in-home training at their own pace and receive essentially the same information as presented in Level I classroom training. This online course also acts as a great refresher or as a tool to educate new ranch employees. Check it out and improve your beef operation today.

2009-01-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

TTU Computer Program to Compare ACRE and CCP Effect on Texas Cotton

Texas Tech University's Cotton Economics Research Institute (CERI)has developed a computer calculator that compares the ACRE program to the historical payments from Counter-Cyclical Payments for cotton. According to the Volume 11. No. 2 Edition of the CERI Newsletter, "The website based calculator allows Texas row crop producers to enter their own individual farm data and compare their historical outcomes under the existing counter-cyclical payment (CCP) program and the Average Crop Revenue Election (ACRE) program alternative. The results of calculations are based on historical data and are not projections of future outcomes". This tool should be extremely handy for cotton producers who will be trying to make a decision about going into the new ACRE program or remaining in the CCP.

To find the calculator online go to http://www.aaec.ttu.edu/webapps/acre/index.htm and register. Information is confidential.

Picture by Derek Scasta

2009-01-09T09:24:00.000-08:00

47th Blackland Income Growth Conference is Set for Feb 2/3
This annual event will be held at the Heart Of Texas Fairgrounds in Waco, TX February 2 and 3. This is one of the largest agricultural conferences in the area and has some timely information that should be useful for homeowners, landowners, farmers and ranchers alike given the national and global economic situation.

Breakout sessions for Grain, Horticulture, Beef, Forage, Cotton, Wildlife, Family Issues, Private Applicator Training, Pesticide License Recertification, New Era for Food and Renewable Energy will take place.

View the brochure and program details online at http://dallas.tamu.edu/BIG/Conference.aspx

2009-01-08T06:59:00.000-08:00

There are several programs that will be offered early in 2009 that I want to make folks aware of.

Electronic Waste Collection
Do you have old computer equipment that you want to get rid of but don’t know how? If so, there is an opportunity coming your way to make that computer benefit the state of Texas! January 16th from 1pm to 4pm and January 17th 9am to 12noon at the Old Kmart Parking Lot (across from the Precinct 1barn) the City of Corsicana and the Texas Department of Criminal Justice are partnering up to take in the following items: computers, printers, monitors, mice, keyboards, computer parts, scanners, televisions and rechargeable batteries. All items will go to a TDCJ facility to be refurbished and if possible returned to Texas schools. This program provides technical training for inmates and quality computers for the youth in Texas! call 903-654-4889 or 903-654-3075.

Row Crop Update and CEU Seminar
January 27 in the Small Fannie Mae Vernon Room at the Navarro County Exposition Center. Cost is $10 to cover the lunch and 4 CEU’s will be provided (1 general, 2 IPM and 1 Laws and Regs). The agenda will cover the following: Reading Pesticide Labels, Applying Wasterwater Residuals to Improve Soil Fertility, Variety Performance and IPM Applications, Boll Weevil Eradication, Atoxigenic Strains to Manage Alfatoxin in Corn, and Corn, Milo and Small Grains Demonstration Reports. The program will start at 9am and conclude by 2:30 pm. RSVP by January 24 by calling 903-654-3075.

Row Crop/Commodity Marketing Workshop
Thursday, February 12 at the Navarro College Lonestar Room. Cost is $10 per person to cover the expense of the meal. Speakers for the day include Dr. John Robinson, Extension Ag Economist for Cotton Marketing, Dr. Mark Welch, Extension Ag Economist for Grain Marketing and Nicole Gueck Extension Program Specialist for Risk Management will team up to talk about the market outlook for cotton and grains, marketing options and alternatives, Risk management, Farm Assist Program and calculating break-even costs for your operation. The most useful portion of this program will be in the afternoon when our speakers will work one-on-one with producers to develop break-even costs and discuss marketing options for 2009. RSVP by February 9 by calling 903-654-3075.

2009 Beef Clinic
February 26 at the Navarro County Exposition Center. Cost is $3 to cover a steak dinner that you will not want to miss. The Agenda will include an update from Texas Beef Council, A Bull Breeding Soundness Exam Discussion and Demonstration, Emerging Reproductive Diseases in Cow-Calf Herds, an update on Country of Origin Labeling, door prizes and more. Don’t forget about the always exciting trade show featuring local and state agribusinesses and agencies. This is going to be a program you will not want to miss. Reserve your seat (and your steak to for that matter) by calling 903-654-3075 by February 24th.

2008-12-02T14:40:00.000-08:00

This blog will bring current and relevant information to you about all aspects of agriculture and natural resources affecting Navarro County and surrounding areas of north-central Texas.

Picture by Derek Scasta