Ag News and Views: December 2004

December, 2004 Table of Contents News & Views Archive Issues

Economics
Invest In the Future of Your Operation by Fred Schmedt
It appears that through the combination of high prices and ample grass, your cow herds have truly become "cash cows." In the business world, cash cows are products that generate a steady, dependable flow of cash.

Forage
Plant Identification Is Key in Understanding Land's Health by Chuck Coffey
Managing land resources requires a keen awareness of the ecosystem, as well as practical knowledge of the tools available to manipulate these resources.

Horticulture
Feel the Burn: 2004 Hoop House Hot Pepper Trial by Steve Upson
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, hot peppers make great additions to a healthy diet. They are cholesterol free, low in sodium and calories, rich in vitamins A and C and a good source of folic acid, potassium and vitamin E. In response to this craving for all things hot, market gardeners are expanding their offering of hot pepper varieties.

Livestock
What Should You Feed Your Cows This Winter? by Evan Whitley
For a few obvious (and some not so obvious) reasons, this same question gets asked frequently. As with most questions involving agriculture, the answer is "it depends" — and it primarily depends upon the following key areas: Product Specifics, Availability and Price.

Soils
Is There a Future for Ammonium Nitrate? by Eddie Funderburg
All these new regulations and laws are likely to have the effect of making ammonium nitrate both less available and more expensive relative to other nitrogen fertilizer products. What does this mean to you?

Wildlife
So Many Infrared-triggered Cameras to Choose From — Where Do I Start? by Ken Gee
In an effort to address many of the questions raised and assist prospective buyers in product research and purchase, we have compiled a listing of various cameras and associated features, costs, and manufacturer and retailer information.