Ag News and Views: February 2010 Table of Contents

February, 2010 Table of Contents News & Views Archive Issues

Commentary
How Can Farming and Ranching Survive? by Shan Ingram
Approximately 2 percent of the U.S. population is involved in farming or ranching. Of that number, more than half are small operators. Therefore, less than 1 percent of our population is truly engaged in farming.

Economics
Advantages of a Business Plan for Small Farm Operations by Jeri Donnell
Small farms should manage their operations similarly to larger agricultural enterprises to ensure long-term sustainability. To achieve this goal, substantial planning and development of a comprehensive business plan is key.

Livestock
Producer's Perspective: Winter Supplementation by Deke Alkire
During winters in Texas and Oklahoma, grass quality decreases to the point that most cattle producers have to provide supplemental feed for their cattle.

Pasture and Range
Resolving the "Wiregrass" Problem by Hugh Aljoe
Over the last few years, we pasture and range consultants have received a number of inquiries from producers wanting to know how to get rid of "wiregrass" in their pastures.

Soils and Crops
Planning the Pasture Management Year by David Annis
A great pasture manager is one who pays attention to the details and realizes the first step of pasture management is the "plan."

Wildlife
Environmental Considerations When Burning by Steven Smith
When planning a prescribed burn, there are many environmental factors to consider including topography, fuel loads and weather.