All sports fans know that when the team didn't do as well as expected
this year, there's always next year. Weed control can work like that
too. If you didn't get the sandburs this year, make plans now to get 'em
next year.
We conducted a study in 2010 on how well four products controlled
sandbur in bermudagrass and how much the three post-emergent products
injured the bermudagrass crop. Following is a list of the different
products we used, how well they controlled sandbur and how much crop
injury they caused.
Prowl H2O® (pendimethalin)
This is a pre-emergent product that must be applied before the sandbur
emerge. This is usually in March or very early April. Rainfall must
occur within two weeks of application or efficacy will be reduced
dramatically. We used 2.1 and 3.2 quarts of product per acre in our
study. Sandbur control was rated at 63 and 70 percent, respectively.
This was statistically the same as that provided by the post-emergent
products. Prowl H2O® was not evaluated for crop injury.
Roundup WeatherMax® (glyphosate)
Roundup WeatherMax® is labeled for sandbur control only after the first
cutting of hay on bermudagrass. Application must be made very soon after
hay cutting or crop injury may occur. There is a 28-day grazing and
haying restriction after the herbicide has been applied.
We used two rates of Roundup Weathermax®, 6.5 and 11 ounces per acre.
Sandbur control was rated at 100 percent for each rate. Crop injury in
the form of discoloration and reduced plant height was observed 14 days
after treatment, but the bermudagrass outgrew the injury within 30 days
after treatment. We harvested the plots, and there was no yield
difference between the Roundup WeatherMax® plots and the plots that
didnot receive herbicide.
Pastora® (metsulfuron methyl and nicosulfuron)
Pastora® is a relatively new product that is a mixture of herbicides
trade-named Cimarron® and Accent®. The label requires using the product
when sandbur are less than 2 inches tall and bermudagrass is less than 4
inches tall. There are no grazing or haying restrictions with Pastora®.
We applied Pastora® at rates of 1 and 1.5 ounces per acre. We achieved
sandbur control ratings of 97 and 100 percent, respectively. We saw
visual crop injury soon after treatment, but the bermudagrass largely
outgrew the injury after 30 days. When we harvested the crop 35 days
after application, there was no statistically significant yield difference between
the Pastora® treatments and the plots that did not
receive herbicide.
Panoramic® (imazapic)
Panoramic® is a generic version of a product that was previously sold as
Plateau®. It has both pre-emergent and post-emergent activity, but is
usually more effective when used post-emergent. The label states to not
use Panoramic® on drought-stressed bermudagrass, when bermudagrass is in
the transition stage between dormancy and full green-up, on newly
aerated fields, in the establishment year for bermudagrass or on the variety World Feeder.
We applied Panoramic® at rates of 6 and 12 ounces per acre. Sandbur
control was rated at 100 percent for each rate. However, crop injury was
very severe. Panoramic® caused the worst visual injury symptoms of the
herbicides tested, and the injury carried over into yield. The 6 and 12ounce
rates of Panoramic® caused yield reductions of 41 and 78 percent,
respectively, when harvested 35 days after treatment.
Summary
All the herbicides we tested controlled sandbur. Visual crop injury
symptoms were noted in all the post-emergent treatments 14 days after
treatment, but the visual crop injury symptoms decreased dramatically
when observed 30 days after treatment. Neither Roundup WeatherMax® nor
Pastora® decreased bermudagrass yield when harvested 35 days after
treatment, but Panoramic® applications caused severe yield reductions.
In general, we feel that Prowl H2O® is a good pre-emergent product if
rainfall occurs in a timely fashion after application and that Pastora®
and Roundup WeatherMax® are good post-emergent products if applied in a
timely manner. Although it controls sandbur well, we have difficulties
recommending Panoramic® due to crop injury concerns.
If you have sandburs, now's your chance to plan to get' em next year.
You can find this and past articles on the web at
http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension programs
serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex,
religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University
System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners
Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of
socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national
origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture,
and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Thank you,
Tommy Neyland
County Extension Agent
Texas Agrilife Extension Service
P.O. Box 188
Centerville, Texas 75833
903.536.2531 phone
903.536.3804 fax
Mycountrytractor.com is the destination for those looking for community info. Mycountrytractor is involved with county events and child involvement to help support local 4-H and FFA events. We have wonderful Agriculture information for our visitors for all your farming and ranching needs
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Chute N The Bull 10-11-10
It has been a long time since profits from agricultural activities have justified the price of land. Escalated prices are often attributed to speculation, but with a fixed land resource and a growing population, the price of land is likely to continue to increase over the coming decades.
For many agricultural producers, land is the highest valued asset on their balance sheet. Therefore, it is very important to maintain the viability and integrity of the land from a value standpoint, while still achieving the production, landscape and quality of life goals of the owner.
With the impact of the "The Great Recession" that began in December 2007, many agricultural producers are looking for ways to improve their bottom line. There are two ways to do so: cut costs or increase revenue. Neither one is typically easy to do for an agricultural producer. Even though farmers and ranchers are very resourceful people, much of what they produce is sold as a commodity. Thus, producers typically receive a non-differentiated price while costs are already kept at a minimum.
When I am trying to help an agricultural producer increase profitability, I first start with their largest expense category. In most cases, this is the cost of land. While refinancing a land note at a lower rate is a possibility, there is a different strategy available to help the bottom line. Namely, one should consider production activities that can provide economic benefits while minimally impacting other agricultural enterprises conducted on the land.
It's often said that a combination of production activities is better from both risk and profit standpoints. Some alternative production activities such as developing wildlife hunting leases, establishing agritourism, leasing pecan harvest of productive native trees, establishing a wind energy or mineral lease, and developing novel marketing plans for produced goods have little additional cost associated with them.
Other activities to capitalize on existing land resources, but which would require additional capital, include improved pecan orchards, production of meat goats and production of fruits or vegetables. While additional capital is required, these activities are more of a complement to the overall operation than a substitute for existing activities.
If one of these ventures is being considered, it is important to evaluate the operation's ability to manage the new endeavor. Additionally, it is important to know how much additional time and paperwork would be necessary to see the venture to completion. Brainstorm with a consultant about other enterprises that would work well with your current operation and how to turn produced goods into differentiated products that demand a premium price.
It is important to remember that your land is valued based on the perceived future value of its optimal earning possibilities. It is fine to use the land for less than its highest possible combination of activities, but money is being left on the table, or in this case, in the soil. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension proserve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.
Thank you,
Tommy Neyland
County Extension Agent
Texas Agrilife Extension Service
P.O. Box 188
Centerville, Texas 75833
903.536.2531 phone
903.536.3804 fax
For many agricultural producers, land is the highest valued asset on their balance sheet. Therefore, it is very important to maintain the viability and integrity of the land from a value standpoint, while still achieving the production, landscape and quality of life goals of the owner.
With the impact of the "The Great Recession" that began in December 2007, many agricultural producers are looking for ways to improve their bottom line. There are two ways to do so: cut costs or increase revenue. Neither one is typically easy to do for an agricultural producer. Even though farmers and ranchers are very resourceful people, much of what they produce is sold as a commodity. Thus, producers typically receive a non-differentiated price while costs are already kept at a minimum.
When I am trying to help an agricultural producer increase profitability, I first start with their largest expense category. In most cases, this is the cost of land. While refinancing a land note at a lower rate is a possibility, there is a different strategy available to help the bottom line. Namely, one should consider production activities that can provide economic benefits while minimally impacting other agricultural enterprises conducted on the land.
It's often said that a combination of production activities is better from both risk and profit standpoints. Some alternative production activities such as developing wildlife hunting leases, establishing agritourism, leasing pecan harvest of productive native trees, establishing a wind energy or mineral lease, and developing novel marketing plans for produced goods have little additional cost associated with them.
Other activities to capitalize on existing land resources, but which would require additional capital, include improved pecan orchards, production of meat goats and production of fruits or vegetables. While additional capital is required, these activities are more of a complement to the overall operation than a substitute for existing activities.
If one of these ventures is being considered, it is important to evaluate the operation's ability to manage the new endeavor. Additionally, it is important to know how much additional time and paperwork would be necessary to see the venture to completion. Brainstorm with a consultant about other enterprises that would work well with your current operation and how to turn produced goods into differentiated products that demand a premium price.
It is important to remember that your land is valued based on the perceived future value of its optimal earning possibilities. It is fine to use the land for less than its highest possible combination of activities, but money is being left on the table, or in this case, in the soil. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension proserve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.
Thank you,
Tommy Neyland
County Extension Agent
Texas Agrilife Extension Service
P.O. Box 188
Centerville, Texas 75833
903.536.2531 phone
903.536.3804 fax
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Chute N The Bull 10-4-10
Lyrics from this popular 1953 song talk about how a person does not have to spend large amounts of money to make a big impression on another - it's the little things that count. I was reminded of this recently as we were working to get a field study planted. We spent a lot of time making sure we had the little things taken care of that will make a big impact on success or failure in the field. Here are a few of the little things that come to my mind that can wind up making a huge impact on success or failure in your operation.
Get out of the truck
It is darn near impossible to assess cow body condition, weed pressure, insect pressure, disease pressure, forage availability, seed emergence... with a windshield view. It's amazing how many wrecks you can avoid by spending quality time in the field.
Use pre-emergent crabgrass control when sprigging bermudagrass
When sprigging bermudagrass on sandy soils, crabgrass can be a huge competitor which can cause delayed bermudagrass coverage or failure. Using a pre-emerge control for crabgrass can be the difference between stand establishment and the additional cost of re-establishment.
Clean equipment
Pulling drills out of the shed, filling them with seed and heading to the field is a big mistake. Grain can sprout in cups, spider webs can plug drop tubes and bearings can freeze, and all these little things can prevent seed from getting from the drill and into the ground. The same holds true for sprayers. Nozzles plug, many of the chemicals we use corrode rubber and metal, and residual chemical left in a tank can kill a crop. Cleaning is a little thing... but it can mean a lot.
Calibrate, calibrate, calibrate
Herbicides and seeds are not cheap. Putting out the right amount at the right time can make all the difference. Calibration of spraying and planting equipment takes time, but it will make you money. After a piece of equipment has been calibrated, re-check it in the field as things can change with field bounce.
Verify seed depth and seed to soil contact
Many forage crops have recommended seeding depths of ¼" or less, which, especially in no-till, is an extremely difficult depth to control. Once in the field, get out of the tractor seat and look for seed. Planting too deep can result in uneven emergence or complete failure to emerge. Check depth when changing from sand to clay soils, and make sure you have good soil closure around the seed for optimal germination.
Use good seed and good sprigs
Planting seed without knowing seed germination or vigor is asking for trouble, as is sprigging bermudagrass sprigs that have been sitting exposed on a truck for 24 hours. This little item can definitely save you a re-plant and a whole year of production.
Conduct soil and forage tests
Supplemental feed on average is 62 percent of the cost of running a cow for a year. Depending upon the product, fertilizer prices are averaging $250-$550 per ton. Soil and forage tests cost about $10 each and are the only way to accurately calculate feed supplement or fertilizer application. Spend $10 up front to save hundreds of dollars on feed and fertilizer cost. It's a little thing that can add up to a lot.
Make a plan and stick to it
Plan your forage grazing, forage establishment, breeding program, marketing program and seedbed preparation. Develop a whole farm management plan and stick to it.
This list is far from complete, but, from personal experience, these are some small practices that make a big difference. If you have others and want to share, e-mail them to me and I will work the best tips into a future column. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Get out of the truck
It is darn near impossible to assess cow body condition, weed pressure, insect pressure, disease pressure, forage availability, seed emergence... with a windshield view. It's amazing how many wrecks you can avoid by spending quality time in the field.
Use pre-emergent crabgrass control when sprigging bermudagrass
When sprigging bermudagrass on sandy soils, crabgrass can be a huge competitor which can cause delayed bermudagrass coverage or failure. Using a pre-emerge control for crabgrass can be the difference between stand establishment and the additional cost of re-establishment.
Clean equipment
Pulling drills out of the shed, filling them with seed and heading to the field is a big mistake. Grain can sprout in cups, spider webs can plug drop tubes and bearings can freeze, and all these little things can prevent seed from getting from the drill and into the ground. The same holds true for sprayers. Nozzles plug, many of the chemicals we use corrode rubber and metal, and residual chemical left in a tank can kill a crop. Cleaning is a little thing... but it can mean a lot.
Calibrate, calibrate, calibrate
Herbicides and seeds are not cheap. Putting out the right amount at the right time can make all the difference. Calibration of spraying and planting equipment takes time, but it will make you money. After a piece of equipment has been calibrated, re-check it in the field as things can change with field bounce.
Verify seed depth and seed to soil contact
Many forage crops have recommended seeding depths of ¼" or less, which, especially in no-till, is an extremely difficult depth to control. Once in the field, get out of the tractor seat and look for seed. Planting too deep can result in uneven emergence or complete failure to emerge. Check depth when changing from sand to clay soils, and make sure you have good soil closure around the seed for optimal germination.
Use good seed and good sprigs
Planting seed without knowing seed germination or vigor is asking for trouble, as is sprigging bermudagrass sprigs that have been sitting exposed on a truck for 24 hours. This little item can definitely save you a re-plant and a whole year of production.
Conduct soil and forage tests
Supplemental feed on average is 62 percent of the cost of running a cow for a year. Depending upon the product, fertilizer prices are averaging $250-$550 per ton. Soil and forage tests cost about $10 each and are the only way to accurately calculate feed supplement or fertilizer application. Spend $10 up front to save hundreds of dollars on feed and fertilizer cost. It's a little thing that can add up to a lot.
Make a plan and stick to it
Plan your forage grazing, forage establishment, breeding program, marketing program and seedbed preparation. Develop a whole farm management plan and stick to it.
This list is far from complete, but, from personal experience, these are some small practices that make a big difference. If you have others and want to share, e-mail them to me and I will work the best tips into a future column. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Chute N The Bull 9-27-10
For most cattle producers, culling cows is not an easy task. However, some culling needs to be done each year to maintain optimal productivity. Records on each cow's yearly production would be beneficial when making culling decisions, but collecting some information when the cows are processed can give you a good place to start.
Cattlemen should make it a point to evaluate all breeding females at least once a year. Weaning is likely the most convenient time to do this evaluation. In addition to their vaccinations, cows should also be pregnancy-tested, evaluated for structural soundness and aged based on the condition of their teeth. This information will take a little extra time to collect, but will be valuable when determining a culling order. In addition, this culling order will be useful during a drought as it is usually more profitable to cull unproductive cows as a drought is beginning than to try to hold on until the drought is over.
Usually, the best cows to cull are the ones that have the least chance of being productive in the long term or are the farthest away from being productive. Use the following list as a guideline for establishing your culling order. Cull cows in this order until you reach the desired herd size.
1. Disposition: Some producers can tolerate more disposition problems than others. Disposition should be evaluated both in the pasture and in the pen because some cattle will react differently once corralled. Make a note of those animals that make it difficult to gather the herd or rotate pastures. Any animal that is aggressive should make the list.
2. Open females: All open females should be culled. According to the Cattle-Fax Cow/Calf and Stocker Survey, the average annual cash cost to carry a cow in 2006 was $366. It will be very difficult for an open cow to make up for a year of lost production. In addition, if a heifer does not settle in the same period as her contemporaries, she is telling you that she does not fit your management environment.
3. Structural soundness: Evaluate the structural soundness of each cow based on her ability to raise a calf. Anything that limits her ability should be noted. Look for bad feet or toes, a history of prolapse, eye problems and poor udder conformation, including bad quarters and big teats.
4. Age: Typically, a cow is most productive between the ages of 4 and 9. The condition of a cow's teeth is indicative of her age. A cow with broken or missing teeth should probably be culled. Those with badly worn or separated teeth would be next on the list.
At this point, it becomes increasingly difficult to make culling decisions because you will have to cull productive animals.
5. Bred cows over 9 years of age: These cows will likely be culled in the near future and are close to the end of their most productive years. Within this group, cull the thin cows first.
6. Replacement heifers. First, cull yearling heifers that have not been exposed to a bull. These animals have very good value as feeder heifers. Bred heifers would be next in the culling order.
7. Phenotype: Use this as an opportunity to make your herd more uniform. Any cow that does not fit due to breed, size or low productivity should be culled next.
8. Bred cows 3 to 9 years of age: These are your most productive cows. If you must cull out of this group, 3-year-olds and those cows that are 8 to 9 years old would go first.
The decision about which animals to cull can be difficult. Each operation will have different goals and, therefore, may need to adjust accordingly. Use this list as a guideline for developing a culling order for your herd. You can find this and past articles on the web at www.mycountrytractor.blogspot.com for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Cattlemen should make it a point to evaluate all breeding females at least once a year. Weaning is likely the most convenient time to do this evaluation. In addition to their vaccinations, cows should also be pregnancy-tested, evaluated for structural soundness and aged based on the condition of their teeth. This information will take a little extra time to collect, but will be valuable when determining a culling order. In addition, this culling order will be useful during a drought as it is usually more profitable to cull unproductive cows as a drought is beginning than to try to hold on until the drought is over.
Usually, the best cows to cull are the ones that have the least chance of being productive in the long term or are the farthest away from being productive. Use the following list as a guideline for establishing your culling order. Cull cows in this order until you reach the desired herd size.
1. Disposition: Some producers can tolerate more disposition problems than others. Disposition should be evaluated both in the pasture and in the pen because some cattle will react differently once corralled. Make a note of those animals that make it difficult to gather the herd or rotate pastures. Any animal that is aggressive should make the list.
2. Open females: All open females should be culled. According to the Cattle-Fax Cow/Calf and Stocker Survey, the average annual cash cost to carry a cow in 2006 was $366. It will be very difficult for an open cow to make up for a year of lost production. In addition, if a heifer does not settle in the same period as her contemporaries, she is telling you that she does not fit your management environment.
3. Structural soundness: Evaluate the structural soundness of each cow based on her ability to raise a calf. Anything that limits her ability should be noted. Look for bad feet or toes, a history of prolapse, eye problems and poor udder conformation, including bad quarters and big teats.
4. Age: Typically, a cow is most productive between the ages of 4 and 9. The condition of a cow's teeth is indicative of her age. A cow with broken or missing teeth should probably be culled. Those with badly worn or separated teeth would be next on the list.
At this point, it becomes increasingly difficult to make culling decisions because you will have to cull productive animals.
5. Bred cows over 9 years of age: These cows will likely be culled in the near future and are close to the end of their most productive years. Within this group, cull the thin cows first.
6. Replacement heifers. First, cull yearling heifers that have not been exposed to a bull. These animals have very good value as feeder heifers. Bred heifers would be next in the culling order.
7. Phenotype: Use this as an opportunity to make your herd more uniform. Any cow that does not fit due to breed, size or low productivity should be culled next.
8. Bred cows 3 to 9 years of age: These are your most productive cows. If you must cull out of this group, 3-year-olds and those cows that are 8 to 9 years old would go first.
The decision about which animals to cull can be difficult. Each operation will have different goals and, therefore, may need to adjust accordingly. Use this list as a guideline for developing a culling order for your herd. You can find this and past articles on the web at www.mycountrytractor.blogspot.com for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Chute N The Bull 9-18-10
Grasslands are complex environments comprised of many different kinds of living organisms affected by abiotic factors such as weather. There are few things that are black and white in such complex ecosystems, but there may be some self-evident "truths." If you haven't considered them in your grazing operation, perhaps you should.
Rotational grazing
Grazing systems developed over the past 100 years attempt to optimize the productivity of pastures while at the same time produce a useable or saleable product. What most rotational grazing systems try to do is mimic the defoliation patterns under which grasslands were thought to have evolved; severe defoliation of native flora by massive herds of native ungulates (hoofed animals such as bison) for a relatively short period of time. Did short-term overgrazing occur by bison? Of course it did.
The integrity of these grasslands was maintained because bison would not return to these heavily grazed areas for many months or years, giving the land adequate opportunity to recuperate. Short duration grazing, high intensity-low frequency grazing, management-intensive grazing and, recently, mob-grazing have all been introduced as the grazing system that best mimics the movements of the great bison herds of the past. Fences were not in place back then, but rotational grazing occurred by herd movements over time. Isn't it interesting that these massive herds were able to maintain their numbers despite no one being around to feed them hay all winter long?
Diversity of grazing species
Historically, the Southern Great Plains was a very diverse ecosystem with a mixture of grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees on the landscape. Bison preferred herbaceous vegetation; woody plants were not their forage of choice. Fortunately, there were other ungulates that did utilize woody plants as well as forbs. Pronghorn antelope, elk, mule deer and white-tailed deer were common on the Southern Great Plains prior to European settlement. Today, domestic cattle have taken the place of the bison, and many cattle producers spend huge amounts of money trying to kill plants that some animals (e.g., deer, domestic sheep and goats) use. Fencing is a challenge for sheep and goats, but money spent on weed and brush control would buy a lot of woven wire fence. Cattle didn't pay for five-strand barbed wire fences the first year they were up, either.
Fire
The impact of fire on the Great Plains cannot be overstated. In addition to grazing, plant communities evolved with fire during all months of the year. The resulting regrowth was preferred by grazing animals, and Native Americans would use this technique to attract the great bison herds. Fire on the Great Plains has been reduced significantly since European settlement, resulting in increasing woody vegetation such as Eastern Red-cedar. Not using prescribed fire can lead to loss of grassland, landscape heterogeneity and plant diversity, not to mention the cost of trying to control woody plants with chemicals. Fire is not a stand-alone tool. In conjunction with a targeted grazing system and a diversity of grazing animals, you may be able to use forbs and woody plants instead of fighting them. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Rotational grazing
Grazing systems developed over the past 100 years attempt to optimize the productivity of pastures while at the same time produce a useable or saleable product. What most rotational grazing systems try to do is mimic the defoliation patterns under which grasslands were thought to have evolved; severe defoliation of native flora by massive herds of native ungulates (hoofed animals such as bison) for a relatively short period of time. Did short-term overgrazing occur by bison? Of course it did.
The integrity of these grasslands was maintained because bison would not return to these heavily grazed areas for many months or years, giving the land adequate opportunity to recuperate. Short duration grazing, high intensity-low frequency grazing, management-intensive grazing and, recently, mob-grazing have all been introduced as the grazing system that best mimics the movements of the great bison herds of the past. Fences were not in place back then, but rotational grazing occurred by herd movements over time. Isn't it interesting that these massive herds were able to maintain their numbers despite no one being around to feed them hay all winter long?
Diversity of grazing species
Historically, the Southern Great Plains was a very diverse ecosystem with a mixture of grasses, forbs, shrubs and trees on the landscape. Bison preferred herbaceous vegetation; woody plants were not their forage of choice. Fortunately, there were other ungulates that did utilize woody plants as well as forbs. Pronghorn antelope, elk, mule deer and white-tailed deer were common on the Southern Great Plains prior to European settlement. Today, domestic cattle have taken the place of the bison, and many cattle producers spend huge amounts of money trying to kill plants that some animals (e.g., deer, domestic sheep and goats) use. Fencing is a challenge for sheep and goats, but money spent on weed and brush control would buy a lot of woven wire fence. Cattle didn't pay for five-strand barbed wire fences the first year they were up, either.
Fire
The impact of fire on the Great Plains cannot be overstated. In addition to grazing, plant communities evolved with fire during all months of the year. The resulting regrowth was preferred by grazing animals, and Native Americans would use this technique to attract the great bison herds. Fire on the Great Plains has been reduced significantly since European settlement, resulting in increasing woody vegetation such as Eastern Red-cedar. Not using prescribed fire can lead to loss of grassland, landscape heterogeneity and plant diversity, not to mention the cost of trying to control woody plants with chemicals. Fire is not a stand-alone tool. In conjunction with a targeted grazing system and a diversity of grazing animals, you may be able to use forbs and woody plants instead of fighting them. You can find this and past articles on the web at http://www.mycountrytractor.com/ for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Cow Country Congress
2010 Cow Country Congress
To Be Held in Freestone County
September 23th, 2010
Cow Country Congress is an annual multi-county event supported by the Extension Beef & Forage Committees from Walker, Madison, Houston, Trinity, Leon, Freestone and Anderson Counties. This educational program rotates within the group of host counties each year. In addition to the traditional seven county area, beef producers from outside these counties are invited to attend this educational program. Participants in attendance will have the opportunity to visit with a variety of commercial exhibitors several times during the course of the day between presentations, demonstrations, and tours of the host property.
The 2010 Cow Country Congress program will meet at one of the F.E. Hill Company Ranch locations located north of Fairfield, Texas. The program is scheduled for Thursday, September 23, 2010. F.E. Hill Company Ranch is a multifaceted agricultural enterprise that has been known in Freestone County for extremely high quality hay production, and intensive beef herd management characterized by progressive reproductive practices. The ranch also uses an intense land management program that allows them to decrease production cost. Waterfowl and Whitetail Deer are managed for and are abundant on their property. Topics discussed at this Cow Country Congress will include new methods in feral hog control, wildlife diversification on the ranch, fly control in the cow herd, and genetics and their role at F.E. Hill Company Ranch. A live cattle handling demonstration will also be provided along with a discussion by the Luminant Power Big Brown Complex Reclaim Team. The site where the event will be hosted is a reclaim site resulting from coal mining operations in the area. The team will discuss the reclaim process and share some recommendations on land management. This event will also showcase truly outstanding facilities for working cattle.
Program registration will begin at 8:15 AM. The program will begin with introductions at 8:45 AM. Individuals interested in attending the 2010 Cow Country Congress should R.S.V.P. prior to September 21st to the Freestone County Extension Office (903) 389-3436, or one of the other participating County Extension Offices from any of the seven sponsoring counties. A registration fee of $10.00 per person will provide each participant a Barbeque Lunch with all the trimmings! In addition to the benefits of a catered lunch, on-site commercial vendors, and touring the ranch operation, each participant with a Texas Department of Agriculture- Pesticide Applicators License will be eligible for 2 IPM hours of Continuing Education Credits for renewal of their license. Additional participant credit of 1.5 hours will be given for Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) recertification. Directions and a printable map may be downloaded from the Freestone County Texas AgriLife Extension Service web page at http://freestone-tx.tamu.edu.
Provisions from the American Disability Act will be considered when planning educational programs and activities. Please notify the County Extension Office if you plan on attending an Extension Educational program and need specialized services. Notification of at least two weeks in advance is needed, so that we may have ample time to acquire resources needed to meet your needs. Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.
Thank you,
Tommy Neyland
County Extension Agent
Texas Agrilife Extension Service
P.O. Box 188
Centerville, Texas 75833
903.536.2531 phone
903.536.3804 fax
To Be Held in Freestone County
September 23th, 2010
Cow Country Congress is an annual multi-county event supported by the Extension Beef & Forage Committees from Walker, Madison, Houston, Trinity, Leon, Freestone and Anderson Counties. This educational program rotates within the group of host counties each year. In addition to the traditional seven county area, beef producers from outside these counties are invited to attend this educational program. Participants in attendance will have the opportunity to visit with a variety of commercial exhibitors several times during the course of the day between presentations, demonstrations, and tours of the host property.
The 2010 Cow Country Congress program will meet at one of the F.E. Hill Company Ranch locations located north of Fairfield, Texas. The program is scheduled for Thursday, September 23, 2010. F.E. Hill Company Ranch is a multifaceted agricultural enterprise that has been known in Freestone County for extremely high quality hay production, and intensive beef herd management characterized by progressive reproductive practices. The ranch also uses an intense land management program that allows them to decrease production cost. Waterfowl and Whitetail Deer are managed for and are abundant on their property. Topics discussed at this Cow Country Congress will include new methods in feral hog control, wildlife diversification on the ranch, fly control in the cow herd, and genetics and their role at F.E. Hill Company Ranch. A live cattle handling demonstration will also be provided along with a discussion by the Luminant Power Big Brown Complex Reclaim Team. The site where the event will be hosted is a reclaim site resulting from coal mining operations in the area. The team will discuss the reclaim process and share some recommendations on land management. This event will also showcase truly outstanding facilities for working cattle.
Program registration will begin at 8:15 AM. The program will begin with introductions at 8:45 AM. Individuals interested in attending the 2010 Cow Country Congress should R.S.V.P. prior to September 21st to the Freestone County Extension Office (903) 389-3436, or one of the other participating County Extension Offices from any of the seven sponsoring counties. A registration fee of $10.00 per person will provide each participant a Barbeque Lunch with all the trimmings! In addition to the benefits of a catered lunch, on-site commercial vendors, and touring the ranch operation, each participant with a Texas Department of Agriculture- Pesticide Applicators License will be eligible for 2 IPM hours of Continuing Education Credits for renewal of their license. Additional participant credit of 1.5 hours will be given for Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) recertification. Directions and a printable map may be downloaded from the Freestone County Texas AgriLife Extension Service web page at http://freestone-tx.tamu.edu.
Provisions from the American Disability Act will be considered when planning educational programs and activities. Please notify the County Extension Office if you plan on attending an Extension Educational program and need specialized services. Notification of at least two weeks in advance is needed, so that we may have ample time to acquire resources needed to meet your needs. Extension programs serve people of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating.
Thank you,
Tommy Neyland
County Extension Agent
Texas Agrilife Extension Service
P.O. Box 188
Centerville, Texas 75833
903.536.2531 phone
903.536.3804 fax
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Chute N The Bull 9-10-10
It's September and fall is fast approaching. The growing season is winding down, but from a forage production standpoint, an active growing season still lies ahead. For much of our area, the first hard freeze will occur about Nov. 24, which leaves a good 60 days of growing season for warm-season forages. Cool-season forage growth will occur optimally in a temperature range from 70 to 80 degrees F with some growth occurring as low as 40° F, meaning cool-season forages can conceivably grow through winter in Texas. Favorable growing temperatures during this period are also accompanied by rain.
Stockpile Introduced forages Bermudagrass, bahiagrass, Old World bluestems and tall fescue are some of the more common forages that can be used for stockpiling. Of these, bermudagrass and tall fescue will work the best due to the quality and the amount of forage they can produce. If stockpiling toxic-endophyte-infected tall fescue, delay use until as late in the season as possible. For introduced forages, ideally select a pasture where previous growth has been removed, and apply nitrogen fertilizer at a rate of 50 to 60 lbs/ac. On bermudagrass at this fertility rate, expect about 2,500 lbs/ac accumulation. Here are two things to keep in mind regarding stockpile fertility of warm-season perennials. One, if spring fertility was applied, due to the dry spring and limited forage growth, there may be carryover nitrogen available; a soil test can tell you this. Two, growing days are limited - there is no need for high nitrogen rates since response will be limited by the short growing season. If phosphorus and potassium are deficient, this is a good time to correct deficiencies. Defer from grazing until after frost. If you have introduced pastures with a large amount of residual growth from spring or summer, do not add additional fertilizer. These can be utilized, but realize this is not a true stockpile, and quality will be much, much lower than fresh, fall-accumulated stockpile. Forage utilization will be higher if grazing access can be controlled through the use of strip grazing or some other means. Make sure you match quality to animal requirements and supplement appropriately.
Nativegrass
In a perfect situation, nativegrass stockpile would begin with spring grazing followed by deferment from early July until frost. In a less-than-perfect situation, nativegrass needs at least 60 to 75 days of rest prior to frost to accumulate carbohydrate reserves for spring growth. If sufficient growth has occurred during this period to allow grazing, it can be utilized after a hard frost. After frost, be very careful not to graze the range too close - leave a 6-inch residual to avoid crown damage. Again, be aware that quality may not be the best, and supplementation should be done based on animal requirements.
Cool-Season Annuals (CSA)
The traditional establishment deadline for CSA has been Sept. 15. Clean-till CSA are usually best utilized by growing animals because of their high quality and cost of establishment. Overseeding CSA into warm-season perennials is a common practice, but, due to competition from warm-season perennials during the fall, expect only limited fall production from CSA. No-till drilling the annual can help with establishment and earlier production. Annual ryegrass is the most common overseeded annual with bermudagrass. It can give you 45 to 60 days of grazing prior to bermudagrass green-up. Overseed 15 to 20 pounds per acre of ryegrass in September, and topdress with nitrogen in February. Because of its aggressive re-seeding, annual ryegrass may not need to be re-seeded for several years. Acreage that is used for stockpile bermudagrass works well for ryegrass production. Grazing the stockpile off allows for the spring release of ryegrass. It is not advisable to have all your introduced warm-season perennial forage acres overseeded because spring competition will delay green-up of the warm-season perennials.
Some Tips
1. When using stockpile, remember that cows are very selective forage consumers - just like you are at your favorite buffet. If allowed, cows will consume leaves first, followed by stems, which can lead to underutilization if grazing is not controlled.
2. Extending the grazing season implies that you are pushing limits of forage availability. If forage availability is limited, animal intake will be limited, which directly influences condition and performance. Try to accumulate 2,000 pounds of forage per acre so intake will not be limited. Be sure to monitor cow body condition and make adjustments as necessary.
3. Monitor cow pies. When a cow pie stacks up like a high rise, forage quality has dropped and you probably need to add a supplement.
4. Always have hay on hand. Establish a goal of only feeding hay for 45 days during the winter, or, better yet, eliminate hay feeding. But be realistic and err on the side of caution and have the hay when you need it.
5. Avoid the "sympathy bale." Many producers really like their cows and work a little too hard to meet cow needs. Producers need to change their mindset from "I have to feed hay" to "I feed hay only when I have to."
You can find this and past articles on the web at www.mycountrytractor.blogspot.com for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
Stockpile Introduced forages Bermudagrass, bahiagrass, Old World bluestems and tall fescue are some of the more common forages that can be used for stockpiling. Of these, bermudagrass and tall fescue will work the best due to the quality and the amount of forage they can produce. If stockpiling toxic-endophyte-infected tall fescue, delay use until as late in the season as possible. For introduced forages, ideally select a pasture where previous growth has been removed, and apply nitrogen fertilizer at a rate of 50 to 60 lbs/ac. On bermudagrass at this fertility rate, expect about 2,500 lbs/ac accumulation. Here are two things to keep in mind regarding stockpile fertility of warm-season perennials. One, if spring fertility was applied, due to the dry spring and limited forage growth, there may be carryover nitrogen available; a soil test can tell you this. Two, growing days are limited - there is no need for high nitrogen rates since response will be limited by the short growing season. If phosphorus and potassium are deficient, this is a good time to correct deficiencies. Defer from grazing until after frost. If you have introduced pastures with a large amount of residual growth from spring or summer, do not add additional fertilizer. These can be utilized, but realize this is not a true stockpile, and quality will be much, much lower than fresh, fall-accumulated stockpile. Forage utilization will be higher if grazing access can be controlled through the use of strip grazing or some other means. Make sure you match quality to animal requirements and supplement appropriately.
Nativegrass
In a perfect situation, nativegrass stockpile would begin with spring grazing followed by deferment from early July until frost. In a less-than-perfect situation, nativegrass needs at least 60 to 75 days of rest prior to frost to accumulate carbohydrate reserves for spring growth. If sufficient growth has occurred during this period to allow grazing, it can be utilized after a hard frost. After frost, be very careful not to graze the range too close - leave a 6-inch residual to avoid crown damage. Again, be aware that quality may not be the best, and supplementation should be done based on animal requirements.
Cool-Season Annuals (CSA)
The traditional establishment deadline for CSA has been Sept. 15. Clean-till CSA are usually best utilized by growing animals because of their high quality and cost of establishment. Overseeding CSA into warm-season perennials is a common practice, but, due to competition from warm-season perennials during the fall, expect only limited fall production from CSA. No-till drilling the annual can help with establishment and earlier production. Annual ryegrass is the most common overseeded annual with bermudagrass. It can give you 45 to 60 days of grazing prior to bermudagrass green-up. Overseed 15 to 20 pounds per acre of ryegrass in September, and topdress with nitrogen in February. Because of its aggressive re-seeding, annual ryegrass may not need to be re-seeded for several years. Acreage that is used for stockpile bermudagrass works well for ryegrass production. Grazing the stockpile off allows for the spring release of ryegrass. It is not advisable to have all your introduced warm-season perennial forage acres overseeded because spring competition will delay green-up of the warm-season perennials.
Some Tips
1. When using stockpile, remember that cows are very selective forage consumers - just like you are at your favorite buffet. If allowed, cows will consume leaves first, followed by stems, which can lead to underutilization if grazing is not controlled.
2. Extending the grazing season implies that you are pushing limits of forage availability. If forage availability is limited, animal intake will be limited, which directly influences condition and performance. Try to accumulate 2,000 pounds of forage per acre so intake will not be limited. Be sure to monitor cow body condition and make adjustments as necessary.
3. Monitor cow pies. When a cow pie stacks up like a high rise, forage quality has dropped and you probably need to add a supplement.
4. Always have hay on hand. Establish a goal of only feeding hay for 45 days during the winter, or, better yet, eliminate hay feeding. But be realistic and err on the side of caution and have the hay when you need it.
5. Avoid the "sympathy bale." Many producers really like their cows and work a little too hard to meet cow needs. Producers need to change their mindset from "I have to feed hay" to "I feed hay only when I have to."
You can find this and past articles on the web at www.mycountrytractor.blogspot.com for your reference. Extension programs serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating serve of all ages regardless of socioeconomic level, race, color, sex, religion, disability, or national origin. The Texas A&M University System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the County Commissioners Courts of Texas Cooperating
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