Ag News and Views: August 1997

August, 1997 Table of Contents News & Views Archive Issues

Economics
Winter Pasture-Stocker Enterprises Made Impressive Impact on Profitability by Fred Schmedt
During the 1996-97 season, returns to margin operators as measured by 'value of gain' have been the largest since 1990 and near the best of all time.

Forage
It's Time to Estimate Available Forage by Chuck Coffey
If you have enough forage to last until the spring of 1998, then all you need to do is develop a supplementation program. However, most of us are not in this situation and will have to feed hay or grow additional forage.

Horticulture
Demonstration Turf Grass Plot Area Under Development by Dooly Barlow
We have started to develop a demonstration turf grass plot area on the Headquarters Farm south of our offices. It will complement the raised bed gardens and demonstration fruit orchard that are already established. The turf plots will be ready for viewing in the spring of 1998.

Livestock
Summer reminders by Shan Ingram
Summer is here! I don't think that's news to anyone but perhaps we need a reminder about some things that go along with summer.

Research
Performance of Cool Season Forage Grasses in Noble Foundation Tests, 1996-97 by Jerry Baker
Ryegrasses and Matua rescuegrass were again evaluated for forage production during the 1996-97 season at the Pasture Demonstration Farm. The test was planted on September 13 and clipped seven times during the season.

Soils
Should Nitrogen be applied on Bermudagrass and Old World Bluestem this month? by Wadell Altom
In early August you should evaluate your existing forage supply and the amount of forage needed from then until next spring. If additional forage is needed, consider applying nitrogen to increase the standing forage or purchase hay.

Wildlife
All About Antlers by Ken Gee
Antlers. For some folks-they are the stuff that dreams are made of. To many hunters, harvesting a large antlered buck represents the ultimate accomplishment. However, many people hunt their entire lives without getting the opportunity to realize this goal. Why is this so?