Trader's Dispatch - March 2024

Lambing & kidding conference

Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers Association and Nebraska Extension are holding a Lambing and Kidding Conference in Curtis Nebraska at the NCTA Livestock Training Center on March 16, 2024. We will be touring Dan Stelik’s lambing facility and others. The program will start with registration at 9:00 am followed by a lambing facility tour. The following programs will be after the tour at the NCTA livestock Teaching Facility:

Llama Care/Management by David Baltzell, DVM.

Lamb meal and all the fixings

Abbey Darheim with Abbey D. Photography demonstrating how to take award winning photographs.

Kelly Bruns former SDSU livestock judging coach and Director of the West Central Research Education & Extension Center, quality goat and lamb evaluation.

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Mar 14 - 16, Danell Diamond Six Ranch, Gelbvieh & Angus, Online A2

Mar 16,

Horse management webinar series

From North Dakota State University Horse owners and stable managers will have the opportunity to learn management strategies and ask questions during a webinar series that North Dakota State University Extension is hosting at noon CDT on Wednesdays in March. CONTINUED

Even the cold nasty weather did not deter the visitors at the M.A.T.E show in Billings, Montana in mid-February. Many vendors were available to explain their products.

Producers should make ARC-PLC election decisions by March 15

Producers can elect coverage and enroll in crop-by-crop Agricultural Risk CoverageCounty (ARC-CO) or Price Loss Coverage (PLC) programs within each Farm Service Agency (FSA) farm unit, or ARC-Individual for the entire farm, for the 2024 crop year, says Ron Haugen, North Dakota State University Extension farm management specialist.

With the extension of the farm bill, the election is in play again this year, Haugen says. Also, this is the first year in which the

PRIVATE TREATY

effective reference price formula kicked in for major crops. The soybean reference price increased from $8.40 to $9.26 and the corn reference price increased from $3.70 to $4.01. This makes the ARC-PLC decision more important.

The election deadline is March 15.

ARC provides income support payments on historical base acres when actual crop revenue declines below a specified guaranteed level. PLC provides income support pay-

Mar

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Has

Randy Saner Extension Livestock Educator discussing famacha training and a parasite management plan.

Rob Zelinsky with Hubbard Feeds will discuss feeder lamb nutrition.

To register contact Randy Saner at randy.saner@unl.edu or call 308-532-2683. The cost to attend is $20 for a Nebraska Sheep & Goat Producers member and 4-H/FFA members or $30 for a non-association member.

Horse management

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Topics will include an overview of genetic diseases in the quarter horse breed, weed and manure management in pastures, prevention and detection of communicable equine diseases, and emergency first aid until the veterinarian arrives.

“The goal of these webinars is to empower our equine owners in North Dakota to confidently apply what we share to their animal care routines or land and resources management,” says Mary Keena, Extension livestock environmental management specialist at NDSU’s Carrington Research Extension Center.

“Understanding genetic diseases, knowing how to prevent a communicable disease and effectively applying first aid to your animal while waiting for a veterinarian in an emergency situation may not only save the animal’s life but is also part of animal husbandry and ownership,” says Rachel Wald, NDSU Extension’s agriculture and natural resources agent in McHenry County.

“Management of your grazing resources by way of weed and manure management can help you increase the usable parts of your pastures, ensuring longevity of the grazing season,” says Paige Brummund, NDSU Extension’s agriculture and natural resources agent in Ward County.

The webinar presenters are NDSU Extension specialists and agents, NDSU professors and the NDSU Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory.

ARC-PLC elections

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ments on historical base acres when the national marketing year average price for a covered commodity falls below its effective reference price.

Covered commodities include barley, canola, large and small chickpeas, corn, crambe, flaxseed, grain sorghum, lentils, mustard seed, oats, peanuts, dry peas, rapeseed, longgrain rice, medium- and short-grain rice, safflower seed, seed cotton, sesame, soybeans, sunflower seed and wheat.

NDSU Extension has developed online tools to aid producers in making this decision. The tools can be found at ndsu.ag/farm-management.

Contact your local FSA office to make this election.

MSU Extension agents recognized for statewide impacts in pesticide education

From the MSU News Service

The Montana State University Extension Pesticide Education Program, or PEP, has recognized two MSU Extension agents for their exceptional efforts educating agricultural producers, land managers and pesticide applicators across the state and promoting the proper use of pesticides to protect public health and the environment.

The MSU PEP presented the 2023 Lifetime Achievement Award to Tyler Lane, Chouteau County Extension agriculture and 4-H agent, and the 2023 Early Achievement Award to Kaleena Miller, MadisonJefferson counties Extension agriculture and natural resources agent. Both were nominated by peers within MSU Extension.

The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes an individual’s efforts in statewide pesticide education over at least 15 years. The recipient must have been with MSU Extension for at least five years and demonstrate at least 15 total years of exceptional impacts

Lane grew up on a farm and ranch near Molt and started working with MSU Extension in 2001. He has a bachelor’s degree in mechanized agriculture from MSU and a master’s degree in entomology from the University of Nebraska. According to his nomination materials, his career has prioritized farming and ranching programming through the Chouteau County Extension Agricultural Advisory Council, teaching Master Gardener programs and facilitating the Chouteau County 4-H Livestock program. Lane teaches producers to implement integrated pest management for the most problematic pests in the area. He also manages the pesticide container recycling site at Fort Benton, assists neighboring Weed Control Association offices with annual pesticide recertification programs and teaches hunter safety classes about how to minimize noxious weed spread.

The Early Achievement Award is given to an individual demonstrating exceptional efforts and impacts in pesticide education in their first five years with MSU Extension.

Miller grew up outside New York City and started her career with the Alternative Energy Resources Organization and the National Center for Appropriate Technology. She moved to Montana in 2011 as an AmeriCorps service member and started working with MSU Extension in 2019. Miller has a bachelor’s degree in environmental economics from the University of Rhode Island and a master’s in environmental policy from Bard College. Award nominators said she has strong partnerships with the Jefferson County Weed District, the Madison Coun-

ty Weed District and the Weed Committee of the Madison Valley Ranchlands Group. She also routinely engages with new landowners in Madison and Jefferson counties and hosts education courses with local groups, including initial private applicator trainings and small acreage land management workshops.

The MSU Pesticide Education Program “relies on the skill sets and experience of veteran Extension agents, as well as the enthusiasm of our newer agents to promote proper pesticide use throughout the state,” said Cecil Tharp, MSU Extension pesticide education specialist. “Having Extension agents like Tyler and Kaleena boosts the knowledge, expertise and education of pesticide applicators in Montana.”

The MSU Extension Pesticide Education Program offers guidance to pesticide applicators while coordinating the certification and training of certified farm private applicators across Montana. For more information on the program, visit pesticides. montana.edu. Future pesticide education nominations may be sent to Cecil Tharp at ctharp@montana.edu.

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MDA announces pesticide disposal events

The Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) is facilitating spring pesticide disposal events in the Columbia River Basin region during the week of April 10th-12th, 2024, in Libby, Polson, and Butte. Summer disposal events are set for July 9th-11th, 2024, in Eureka, Clearwater Junction, and Butte. These additional pesticide disposal events were made possible through the Montana Pesticide Stewardship Partnership Program (MT PSPP).

The primary objective of the Montana Pesticide Stewardship Partnership Program is to have a lasting impact on the health and water quality of the upper Columbia River Basin (CRB), knowing that protecting the upper basin will also have a sustained positive effect downstream. The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Columbia River Basin Restoration Funding Assistance Program was started in 2016 to better monitor and make a positive impact in the Columbia River Basin.

Annual pesticide waste collection events have collected nearly 780,000 pounds of pesticide waste from over 1,800 participants since the program’s inception in 1994.

“Montana has very limited options to get rid of pesticide products,” said Carli Davis of the MDA’s Pesticide Disposal and Container Recycling Programs. “This program is one way of assuring the waste product is properly disposed in a manner that is also environmentally friendly.”

The MDA program was designed to assist individuals with disposing of any pesticides that are unusable as originally intended, or cannot be used for any other purpose, in an environmentally responsible way. In effect, the Pesticide and Waste Disposal Program protects Montana’s ecosystems and groundwater, as well as families, pets, livestock and drinking water from potentially hazardous materials.

2024 Pesticide Waste Collection Dates and Locations:

Spring Event

Wednesday, April 10th – Libby, MT

Thursday, April 11th - Polson, MT

Friday, April 12th- Butte, MT

Summer Event

Tuesday, July 9th- Eureka, MT

Wednesday, July 10th- Clearwater Junction

Thursday, July 11th- Butte, MT

The pre-registration deadline for the spring event is Monday, April 1, 2024, and the pre-registration deadline for the summer event is Monday, July 1, 2024. Registrations for pesticide waste collection events are accepted on a first come, first-serve basis. There is no charge for the first 200 pounds of material; amounts over 200 pounds are assessed at $1.00 per pound, and products are weighed on site. Additional fees may apply to pesticides with dioxins or dioxin precursors. Please visit the Montana Waste Pesticide Disposal Program page or click HERE to register. For more information, please visit agr.mt.gov/Pesticide-Waste-Disposal-Program or contact Carli Davis at (406) 465-0531.

National Clams on the Half Shell Day

This holiday is always observed on March 31

Clams are bi-valve mollusks. This family also includes mussels, oysters, and scallops. Clams live in shallow water just below the surface of a sandy or muddy sea bottom. They live in fresh or salt water. They are eaten cooked in a wide variety of recipes or eaten raw. Now, the only important thing you need to know is that they are delicious when prepared in any way you like them.

Did You Know? Clams have a life cycle of from 1 year to 500 years!

You can eat clams on the half-shell raw, broiled, or steamed, It’s your choice. Clams Casino is the best-known recipe for eating them on the half shell. If you don’t like clams, don’t be sad or disappointed.

Don’t hide in your shell today. Don’t clam up. Get out and celebrate this special day!

How to Celebrate National Clams on the Half Shell Day

• Enjoy a dozen calms on the half shelled, prepared in any manner you prefer.

• Better yet, have two dozen!

• To really enjoy this day, make them yourself.

Inventoring remaining forage supply

By Todd Whitney, UNL

Extreme January cold temperatures and high snowfall challenged many livestock producers. However, Ground Hog Day (February 2) pegs the mid-point of winter; so now may be a good ‘window of time’ to inventory your remaining winter hay and forage. Remember you can’t effectively manage; what you do not measure.

Whether you have enough hay and forage to last the remainder of winter may depend on weather factors beyond your control such as heavy snow cover impacting pasture grazing? Also, it may be difficult to predict if more severe cold conditions will occur in the remaining two winter months?

When making your feed management decisions, consider using ‘best case’ and ‘worst case’ scenarios. Focus on completing a thorough inventory and account for all feed resources; even counting total bales available. Calculate remaining bunker silage. Also, estimate remaining available forage grazing and assign economic values.

Compare what feed resources you have versus what your herd may need. For example, a 200 head lactating herd with average cow sizes of 1,200 pounds will need about 3.2 tons of hay per day (not accounting for waste).

Focus on making the best use of your feed resources. Would it be financially beneficial to sell extra highest quality forage and feed the rest? If the remaining winter is mild, then selling your higher value forage could generate more cashflow toward paying taxes and land payments. On the flip side, if your feed reserves are too low, you may need to intentionally cull your cow herd and/or buy more forage.

If your cows are thin, consider the opposite; sell your lower quality forage and feed your higher quality. Thin condition score cows need more protein and energy to keep from dropping body condition and maintaining their milk production.

More forage managing educational resources are available online at: cropwatch.unl.edu and beef.unl.edu.

On February 28, 2023 the FBI publicly confirmed that they believed COVID-19 originated in a lab in Wuhan, China.

Small

Grazing tall fescue in winter

Tall fescue is a cool-season grass with unique properties that explain its dominance in 40 million acres of U.S. pastures. Most of these acres are dominated by unimproved tall fescue. The predominant feature of tall fescue is its persistence, even under abuse. It has a very tough root system, survives drought periods, is resistant to most insect pests, and comes back after overgrazing. These characteristics can partly be attributed to an endophytic fungus that lives in symbiosis with the plant. Endophytic means ‘inside the plant’ because this fungus lives inside tall fescue plants. It will proliferate throughout the plant, although it is especially concentrated in the lower stem and in the seed. The endophyte produces alkaloid compounds that help protect the plant from pests, diseases, and drought. In return, the plant provides carbohydrates and nutrients to the fungus.

The problem is that the alkaloids also cause animal health problems at high concentrations due to vasoconstriction—blood vessels in animals contract causing poor

blood circulation. This can cause things like hoof and foot problems, poor hair growth, and overheating in summer, which in turn can affect animal health, reproduction, and growth. If you plan on renovating a pasture you should choose an endophyte-free or endophyte-friendly varieties available from your seed supplier. However, if you have an unimproved tall fescue pasture you can still use it in a grazing plan if you follow these guidelines:

Graze or mow spring growth, leaving at least 3–4 inches of stubble. The alkaloid concentration is highest in the seed heads, so you want to avoid this grass from creating seed. Tall fescue only produces heads on the first spring growth, so managing it this way will effectively suppress seed head production. The alkaloid concentration is higher in the lower plant part than in the tops of leaves, so do not graze below 3 inches stubble height.

Rest tall fescue in summer. Tall fescue slows down its growth in the heat of summer while the alkaloid concentration increases.

Above 88°F, animals become highly sensitive to the alkaloid (probably because of excessive heat stress). These rested pastures should be reserved for stockpiling—grazing in winter.

Graze tall fescue in winter. Tall fescue has rigid leaves that keep quality better under snow than other grasses that tend to matt down more. Further, its robust root system withstands the effects of hoof impact better than that of most other forages. Finally, the alkaloid concentration in the standing forage decreases as much as 85% as winter progresses. By grazing tall fescue in the winter, you can really extend your grazing season, which means more natural and economical animal nutrition.

Increase plant diversity. ‘Dilution is the solution to pollution’. Therefore, including companion species with tall fescue reduces the toxic effect of the alkaloid. Other grass species can be mixed with tall fescue, while legumes are especially suited as companion species. Red clover is especially effective because it has ‘vasodilating’ or blood vesselwidening properties. Frost seeding red clover into tall fescue stands can be done in the coming months.

Supplement with grain. While this is not an option if you are on an ‘all forage’ diet, supplementing 0.6% of body weight per day of corn grain will help reduce the effects of alkaloids, supply energy to the animals, and will not interfere with fiber digestion (the latter becomes a problem at higher corn supplementation rates). Corn gluten can be fed at higher rates without endangering fiber digestion.

With proper management, unimproved tall fescue stands can still be used successfully in a grazing plan with the unique opportunity to use it for winter grazing.

applications open

Applications are now open for $30,000 of available grant funding through the Montana Farmers Union Foundation.

Since the grant program began in 2022, more than $60,000 has been granted and leveraged for projects across Montana that focus on ag education for all ages.

The Foundation’s grant program supports projects which align with its mission to create new opportunities and contribute to the growth and enhancement of Montana agriculture and rural communities. Projects must include an educational component for youth and/or adults with priority given to rural communities.

Projects funded have been wide ranging, from creating school gardens to documentaries about women in ag to greenhouse construction costs to after-school garden club programming to purchasing 4-D livestock anatomy models for students to practice veterinary techniques to buying shop tools to purchasing hydroponics units to providing new freezers to expand farm to school programs, and more.

Happy Ranch Wife Tammi Fladager’s work to bring agbased books to kids was one of 11 projects funded in 2023.

With $2,500 in funding Fladager visited and read to school children before giving away hundreds of ag-based books to students.

“Receiving the MFU grant in 2023 allowed me to reach more children across the state and spread the good news about agriculture,” Fladager said. “Working with MFU was like working with good friends. They were as excited about my project as I was! There are not enough words to express my gratitude. Agricultural problems will shrink when we all work together, and partnerships with MFU are living proof of that success. Thank you MFU!”

Submission deadline for MFU Foundation grants is May 1. The grant program is open to anyone from Montana. The application form remains simple to not deter submissions and can be found at https://montanafarmersunion.com/education/ scholarships-grants/.

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Dicamba: Removing a tool from the toolbox

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC

The soybean growers in Nebraska and across the U.S. have just been thrown a curveball, as a federal court in Arizona vacated registration of dicamba formulations specific for use on dicamba tolerant soybeans (including Xtendimax, Engenia, and Tavium), finding that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) failed to meet regulatory requirements. Dicamba is still an effective weed control option, particularly when it comes to Palmer amaranth.

The ruling will put growers of the second largest crop in Nebraska, soybeans, at a management, if not a financial challenge. “It is taking a ‘tool out of the toolbox,’ as we (agronomists) like to say,” said Dr. Randy Lloyd, Nebraska Extension research facility coordinator at West Central Research, Education and Extension Center. “This will put growers in a bind, as most have purchased their soybean seed, which they can still use, but won’t be able to get the full benefits of the technology.”

Many growers favor genetically modified soybeans engineered to withstand glypho-

communications sate and/or glufosinate, and dicamba. This allows over the top dicamba use in soybeans and helps control Palmer amaranth since the weed can grow anytime throughout the summer and disperse thousands of seeds. “You can walk through a field in a fall, where a young two or three-inch Palmer is growing, and it will have a seed head with hundreds of seeds,” Lloyd said.

“It’s a tough time to make a decision this late in the game,” he said. “Growers can try to find other soybean seeds, but quantities will be limited.” A grower’s ability to control weeds constantly challenges the farm economy. Weeds can easily cause a soybean yield to be reduced by 20 to 30 bushels or more, which is a huge yield and financial loss. They also drop hundreds of thousands of seed which could take many years for that field to regain what it lost.”

What implications does this hold for soybean producers in Nebraska? The answer remains uncertain for now. “We must await the response from the EPA and adjust our course accordingly,” Lloyd said, and he’s hopeful the EPA will appeal the ruling. If that doesn’t happen, it will put pressure on already limited alternative postemergence herbicide applications.

As growers move forward with purchasing seed, they should also prepare for alternative weed management strategies if the dicamba label remains vacated. “One viable option is implementing a preemergence program with extended residual activity. Such a program would effectively decrease weed pressure, facilitating suitable terrain for followup applications,” said Dr. Milos Zaric, Nebraska Extension assistant professor at West Central Research, Education and Extension Center. “When considering follow-up applications, it is crucial to ensure timely and precise execution, targeting small weeds (2-3 inches) and populations for postemergence treatment and utilizing increased spray volume.”

Reliance, he said, may shift towards contact-type products available formulations based on glufosinate (essential to ensure the presence of the glufosinate-trait listed on the seed bag) or one of the PPO-inhibiting herbicides (acifluorfen, fomesafen, lactofen, or others classified under WSSA Group 14) for broadleaf weed control.

If a grower is unsure of a program selection, they can refer to the 2024 Guide for Weed, Disease, and Insect Management in Nebraska (EC-130) at https://marketplace.unl.edu/extension/ ec130.html. Growers are also encouraged to contact their local University of Nebraska research and extension specialist for options and help in building alternative weed management plans.

What is IRS Section 180

By Shannon Sand, UNL

With recent land purchases, some are asking questions to learn more about IRS Section 180 and how it may provide tax deductions in the year of purchase. Let’s explore more about this tax code.

What is this code and what may it have to do with the purchased ground?

Section 180 states that “In general: a taxpayer engaged in the business of farming may elect to treat expenses, which are usually not chargeable to capital account expenditures, as chargeable to the capital account, which are paid or incurred during the taxable year. Qualified purchases or acquisitions include fertilizer, lime, ground limestone, marl, or other materials to enrich, neutralize, or condition land used in farming, or for the application of such materials to such land. The expenditures so treated shall be allowed as a deduction.

This means that section 180 can potentially allow landowners of newly acquired land to treat the residual fertility present in the soil at the time of purchase as a deductible cost. Typically, an IRS section 180 tax deduction must be filed in the same year the land is purchased. However, opportunities may exist to file an amended tax return up to three years after the land was purchased. A couple of important things to note if considering talking to your accountant about section 180 is that if the owner was previously the renter (i.e. the land was rented by you prior to purchasing) there is no deduction since they already deducted the cost. The other thing of importance is that the owner is deducting “excess” fertility and cannot deduct all nutrients present but just what is more than “normal”. Ideally, a producer should conduct soil sampling before or shortly after the land is acquired and before additional fertilizer application.

Landowners may realize some tax savings by deducting the value of pre-existing soil fertility. The value of the residual fertility load and the applicable landowner tax rate determine the savings. The landowner must determine deductions with support from their CPA or tax advisor.

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Since 1922 Performance tested bulls and heifers For sale private treaty at the ranch

Kenny Lars

(406) 584-7571 cell (406) 939-0252 671 Fas 470 • Lindsay, MT 59339

Strengthening Local Processing Act addresses local food supply chain ssues

Written by Kari O’Neill, former SDSU Extension Community Vitality Program Manager.

A comprehensive bill designed to address livestock supply chain issues and support small and mid-size meat processors has been introduced as federal legislation. The Strengthening Local Processing Act provides small plants with the funds needed to grow and expand and supports a scale-appropriate approach to small scale slaughter and processing.

Introduced by representatives from Maine and Nebraska, the bill contains the following sections:

Establishment of a searchable database to help small and very small plants find models and receive guidance on HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) plans necessary for certification.

Expanding state inspection by increasing the share of program costs paid by USDA to states.

Expanding the Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) program by increasing USDA cost share and moving eligibility to be recognized as a small plant from 25 to 50 employees.

Training, Education & Technical Assistance Grants will be available for small plants, universities and technical colleges to train a variety of workers from operators to butchers. Grants will also be available for other costs associated with expanding or establishing a small plant, and for coping with pandemic situations.

Kevin Barnhill, owner of the Blair Meat Market in Blair, Nebraska, offered: “The Strengthening Local Processing Act is a winning proposal. Business owners will appreciate the targeted assistance. Farmers will profit from increased market opportunities. Consumers will benefit most of all from access to fresh and local foods.”

“It provides financial relief for required food safety activities, reducing the regulatory burden on small companies with limited resources,” said Jim Wells, CEO of the North American Bison, LLC, in New Rockford, North Dakota. “This financial support for the colleges and universities would be used to develop curriculum and programs in meats and meat processing, resulting in a more competent and resilient workforce for bison processors.”

From a Community Vitality viewpoint, the ability to have a small meat processor locally is a win for economic development. The South Dakota Local Food Network held two statewide listening sessions in May, with one of the top concerns mentioned being access to meat and poultry processing facilities.

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The bill has been endorsed by organizations such as the American Association of Meat Processors, National Farmers Union, US Cattleman’s Association and other species-specific groups.

So, if the bill passes, what are some benefits to South Dakota meat producers and consumers?

According to Cindy Tolle, owner of Sturgis Meats in Sturgis, SD, “I think it’s a great idea. It should help get more processing going, and really help producers. It would take some strain off of my plant, which is way too busy. We turn away about 30 producers a day who can’t wait for an appointment months into the future.”

These quotes come from the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition:

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3431 East Lake Road, Pendroy, Montana

Liliya Stone, Wall Economic Development Director, says, “The owner of our small meat processing plant earned the trust of our producers and people in the community. The plant has been a big help to ranchers in the area needing to process their beef, as well as promoting local beef through the school and a local restaurant. The business boosts the economy of Wall year-round, and has led the Economic Development Board to take steps toward designating an industrial park.”

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition states that small processors are excited to see a focus on scale-appropriate regulations, and support for education of the next generation of small-scale, niche meat processors. Here in South Dakota, there has long been a need for more small processors, both for livestock and poultry. Locker plants not only help producers enter the supply chain, but also provide additional economic vitality for communities.

ND Ram Test results

The Hettinger, ND Ram Test recently released results of the January 112-day weigh-in, and two Montana rams topped the gain data. Veteran Columbia producers, Luanne Wallewein of Timber Coulee Columbias in Sunburst, Montana and Loni Blackman of Wolf Creek, Montana, deserve a shout out. Timber Coulee’s test consignment, TC 546, posted an ADG of 1.29 lbs/day, the highest rate of gain among all 68 rams on test and all breeds on test, including Columbia, Rambouillet, Targhee, Dorset, and Merino!

Loni Blackman’s consignment, L Blackman 23880, earned the 2nd highest rate of gain among all rams and all breeds on test with an ADG of 1.28 lbs/day.

Both rams are QR, twin-born, early April lambs. On the January 11 weigh-in, TC 546 weighed 226 pounds and L. Blackman 23880 weighed 236 pounds. Final test weight data will be collected on February 9, 2024, after which rams will be:

• Evaluated for belly wool and face wool

• Re-sheared and their wool evaluated for micron, staple length, and yield

• Ultrasound measured for back fat and ribeye area, adjusted to a per hundred pounds of body weight basis

Congratulations to Luanne Wallewein of Timber Coulee Columbias and Loni Blackman! Ram entries originate from Minnesota, Montana, North and South Dakota and Wyoming.

Seeds and transplanting tips

Transplant larger nursery stock the same way you would seedlings. Control invasive plants, such as tansy, mint, or bamboo by planting them in their pots to contain their runners. Just cut the bottom out of the pot before planting.

Do not fertilize transplants for several weeks. Instead, water thoroughly, using a splash of B vitamins to help overcome transplant shock. Water regularly until plants show new growth, indicating they’re rooting and surviving well.

McMURRY CATTLE

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ONLY THE BEST SELL Private Treaty Bull Sales

Fred & Doreen McMurry

2027 Iris Lane Billings, MT 59102

Phone 406-254-1247

Cell 406-697-4040

See: www.mcmurrycattle.com for videos and information about bulls available for 2024 mcmurrycattle@gmail.com

Montana Hereford Breeders

Anchor Polled Herefords

406-467-2880, Vaughn, MT

Beery’s Land & Livestock Co 406-979-5720, Vida, MT www.beeryherefords.com

Double Bit Herefords 406-293-8185, Libby, MT www.doublebitherefords.com

Ehlke Herefords 406-439-4311, Townsend, MT www.ehlkeherefords.com

J Bar E Ranch

406-765-7068, Plentywood, MT

K & C Herefords

406-240-9301, Deer Lodge, MT

The deadline for advertising in the April 2024 issue of the Trader's Dispatch will be March 27th. Phone (406) 271-5533.

Feddes Herefords

Dan 406-570-1602, Manhattan, MT www.feddes.com

K.L. Slagsvold Herefords 406-584-7571, Lindsay, MT

L Bar W Cattle Company

406-425-2484, Absarokee, MT www.lbarw.com

McMurry Cattle

406-254-1247, Billings, MT www.mcmurrycattle.com

Sparks Herefords 406-778-2320, Plevna, MT www.sparksherefords.com

406-350-3123, Moore, MT www.wichmanherefords.com

Roughage use in finishing cattle diets

By Warren Rusche, Assistant Professor & SDSU Extension Feedlot Management Specialist

Key Points:

• Roughage serves as a functional ingredient in finishing cattle diets, with key roles in supporting rumen health.

• Conventional wisdom assumes that roughage inclusions should be no greater than necessary for rumen health (less than 10% of diet dry matter) to maximize feed efficiency.

• Greater inclusions of roughage may reduce risk of digestive upset and simplify management with minimal efficiency losses.

Role of Roughage in Feedlot Diets

Roughage plays a critical role in digestion and metabolism of dietary nutrients. One key function is the promotion of rumination and regurgitation, which results in greater saliva production and increased ability to buffer acid in the rumen. In addition, longer particles of roughage serve to support rumen wall health and to regulate feed intake.

For these reasons, a minimum amount of roughage is considered critically important in high-starch finishing cattle diets to reduce risk of digestive upsets and optimize net energy intake by cattle. According to the most-recent survey data, the most common roughage inclusion in North America for finishing cattle diets is between 8 to 10 percent of diet dry matter.

Nutritionists typically limit roughage inclusion in finishing diets because those ingredients are less digestible (and thus lower in energy) compared to grain and biofuels coproducts. Increasing the amount of roughage reduces net energy concentration of the diet, and consequently reduces predicted daily gain. Roughage also costs more per unit of energy compared to concentrates in most cases, so it is no surprise that roughage inclusion is limited to the minimum necessary for rumen health.

Building a Case for Greater Roughage Inclusion

However, a one-size-fits-all recommendation often misses opportunities to improve results. Feeding a slightly reduced energy density diet by including more roughage may not be as detrimental to cattle performance as often believed. In some instances, increasing the amount of roughage inclusion increases net profit.

Reduced risk of digestive upset and improved gut health are the likely drivers behind these responses. Lower roughage diets should improve gains and feed efficiency, at least in theory. However, to capture that potential performance, every aspect of feeding management must be nearly ideal. Any deviations in mixing procedures, amount of feed offered, or timing of feed delivery or intake increases the likelihood of off-feed events.

Unfortunately, circumstances are rarely perfect in production systems. Equipment failure and workload conflicts may interfere with management plans. Weather events, such as blizzard conditions in the winter or heat waves in the summer, disrupt feeding behavior and increase the odds of erratic feed intake.

In those circumstances, feeding a few extra percentage points of roughage may reduce risk. In SDSU research trials evaluating silage inclusion in finishing cattle diets, doubling the amount of corn silage fed was less detrimental to output than expected. We think that one reason for that response is maintaining consistency in feed intake, especially as cattle near the end of the feeding period.

Increased roughage reduces risk caused by feed intake disturbances, whether caused by weather or delivery disruptions. For instance, winter snowstorms often cause delays in getting cattle fed. In addition, cattle alter feeding patterns during weather events, such as blizzards or heat waves. If cattle must wait for feed, a typical response would be for them to consume their diet aggressively, opening the door for digestive upsets. Feeding less starch (by increasing fiber from roughage) reduces that risk.

Cattle feeders who raise their own feed are in a great position to use roughage sources produced on-farm to their advantage. Marketing feeds, such as silage or crop residue, through cattle can increase net farm income. Increasing silage inclusion in SDSU studies resulted in greater beef production per acre of cropland compared to lower roughage diets.

Choosing a production plan that does not target maximum performance may seem contradictory to commonly accepted practice. However, building in a safety measure in the form of added roughage might improve efficiency when measured across an entire system.

Understanding and preventing calf scours

By Halden Clark, DVM MS, Health Stewardship; Great Plains Veterinary Educational Center and Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension Beef Educator

Neonatal calf diarrhea, or scours, is a common concern among cow-calf producers. Understanding why scours occurs is the first step in preventing the problem.

What causes calf scours?

Calf scours outbreaks are the result of a contaminated calving and nursing environment. This environmental contamination develops following a period of pathogen (germ) buildup, or amplification. Cows shed relatively small amounts of these bacteria and viruses into the environment often without showing any clinical symptoms. Other scours-causing pathogens, such as coccidia, can persist in the environment year after year. As calves are born, they are exposed to these pathogens and begin the cycle of replication and shedding of disease potentials. They shed many times more germs than they were originally exposed to, which is why we call this “amplification.” The first calves born may not show clinical symptoms of scours because the pathogen load may not be high enough to overwhelm the immune system. However, as more calves are born and stocking density increases, the pathogen load can become too much. This is when a scours outbreak occurs.

How to reduce the risk of scours

Reducing the risk of scours can be accomplished by addressing different areas of management. One way to do this is by following the Sandhills Calving Method, or a modified version of it. The concept is to place calves into similar age groups, calving on clean environments with each group. Ideally, calves should be within 10-14 days of age in each calving area. Late gestation cows will then be moved away from new babies to calve in a fresh environment and begin another age group, and so on. This will allow reduction of pathogen shedding and exposure dose. The original concept can be modified to fit most operations by having an idea of calving dates and a little creativity.

Limiting stress during calving is another preventative measure. One example of stress includes weather concerns. Having a place for calves to get out of storms and mud may help. This can be accomplished by utilizing shelters or creating a calf escape area by adding a hot wire in the corner of the lot where calves can freely enter but cows remain outside the space. Shelters can become sources of contamination if left unclean and wet. Because ventilation and sunshine are vital factors in keeping calves healthy, moving shelters or utilizing open air concepts have been shown to be beneficial.

Testing is necessary to get a final diagnosis on what pathogens are causing problems and often the condition contains two or more species of bacteria, viruses, or protozoa. Age of calf is helpful in knowing what may be causing the problem as each pathogen affects calves at different time frames. Understanding crucial management areas and establishing prevention protocols with your veterinarian are essential for your operation’s calf health plan.

Has

High quality hay after calving

By Ben Beckman, UNL

Good cow nutrition is crucial following calving to get cows rebred. Today, let’s look at the reason for using our top tier hay after calves hit the ground.

Because cows experience a lot of stress after calving, they need good feed. Not only is the cow producing milk for her calf, she is also preparing her reproductive system to rebreed. As a result, nutrient demands are high. Energy requirements increase about 30 percent and protein needs nearly double after calving. Underfeeding reduces the amount of milk a cow provides her calf, and it can delay or even prevent rebreeding. If it gets cold, wet, or icy again, nutrient demands can sky-rocket.

Even if animals can get to them, winter grass, corn stalks, and other crop residues are low quality right now since these feeds have weathered and are well picked over. Therefore, it is critical that the hay or silage you feed will provide the extra nutrients your cows need.

Because of this, not just any hay or silage will do. After calving a cow needs 10 to 12 percent crude protein and 60 to 65 percent TDN in her total diet. If she is grazing poor quality feeds or eating grass hay, your other forages and supplements must make up any deficiencies.

Make sure your forage has adequate nutrients; if you haven’t done so yet, get it tested now for protein and energy content. Compare this to the nutrient requirements of your cows. Then feed your cows a ration that will meet their requirements. Use supplements if needed, but don’t overfeed, either.

Calving and the months after are a stressful time for cows. If we underfeed, it can delay rebreeding and slow down calf growth. Use your best quality forages with any needed supplements to provide adequate nutrition. By meeting nutrient requirements, your cows will milk well, rebreed on time, and produce healthy calves year after year.

##### The chemical used for artificial banana flavoring, isoamyl acetate, was first used as a pear flavoring in Britain long before it was ever associated with bananas.

The North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension projected crop budgets for 2024 are available for the state’s farmers, says Ron Haugen, NDSU Extension farm management specialist.

The 2024 projected profits vary by region and crop.

“The budgets are guides for large multicounty regions,” says Haugen. “Returns and costs can vary considerably between producers within a region. Also, the budgets estimate returns to labor and management with no consideration of price and yield variability or risk. A perfect comparison of crops is not achieved because different levels of labor, management and risk exist.”

“Generally, most crop budgets in all regions, project a profit for the year, but not as profitable as 2023,” says Haugen. “One reason is, in general, commodity prices are lower than 2023.”

Fertilizer, chemical and fuel expenses are down, but land costs, repairs and interest are higher.

“Specialty crops may show a positive return, but usually have limited contracts and acreages, and also may have higher risk,” says Haugen.

The NDSU Extension-developed budgets are available online at ndsu.ag/cropbudgets, or by searching online for NDSU Crop Budgets. Online, a PDF version is available as well as Excel spreadsheets for producers to fill in their own estimates.

Hard copies are available at NDSU Extension county offices.

Seeds and transplanting tips

If bedding plant transplants have become root bound (roots are crowded and encircling each other), gently loosen the root ball at planting time.

Set the root ball of the transplant into the hole, filling in around it with soil. Leave enough space between seedlings to allow each plant to reach its mature potential without crowding its neighbors.

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Although the Moon is always present with us at night, it may change in shape, color, and even apparent size.

Winter survival in alfalfa

By Ben Beckman, UNL

The time for spring planting alfalfa is just around the corner, and selecting the right seed is crucial. Two traits we should take extra time to consider are fall dormancy and winter survival. These traits are often treated the same, but are different. Today let’s look at winter survival.

Winter survival or winter hardiness is the ability for an alfalfa plant to make it through winter without injury, once the plant goes dormant. This is different than the fall dormancy rating that measures the alfalfa’s ability to prepare for and recover from dormancy. Winter survival is measured on a 1 to 6 scale with 1 being extremely hardy and 6 not hardy. For Nebraska, a winter survival rating of 3 is about as high as we want to go.

As temperatures drop and days shorten, alfalfa plants change their physiology to survive freezing temperatures and make it through winter. While increased hardiness can result in reduced yield potential, for a high dollar perennial forage, having a full stand year after year is better in the long run.

In the past, winter survival traits were linked with fall dormancy. With new varieties, this isn’t always the case, so winter survival needs to be evaluated on its own.

We want to pick a winter survival ranking that will get us through winter without compromising yield. Where you are in the state plays a big role in what to pick. Winter temperatures affect the choice, but maintained snow cover is also important. As snow can help insulate the ground, parts of the state that regularly have open winters may need as high or higher survival rating than colder locations with winter-long snow cover.

Bottom line for Nebraska, a winter survival rating of 3 is about as high as we want to go and areas with open winters or regularly colder temperatures should be even lower.

##### The Times Square Ball drop for New Year’s Eve has happened since 1907. The only time it didn’t drop was in 1942 and 1943 due to the United States entering World War II. However, people still went to Times Square for New Year’s Eve. But instead of a ball drop, they celebrated the holiday with a moment of silence followed by the ringing of chimes from sound trucks.

(4)

UI students included in new Chobani Scholars cohort

Courtesy of the University of Idaho Extension

The Chobani Scholars program has awarded a total of $100,000 in scholarships to five Magic Valley area students who are newly enrolled at University of Idaho and are poised to make meaningful contributions to agriculture.

Chobani, the maker of America’s No. 1 yogurt brand, operates one of the largest yogurt manu-facturing facilities in the country, located in Twin Falls, and has offered the scholarships to U of I students since 2018. Priority is given to students who intend to pursue a career in food production and the dairy industry and may not have the financial means to attend college on their own. Scholarships are spread across four years.

“We are so proud to welcome this new cohort of students into the Chobani Scholars program. We are extremely impressed by their early passion and determination to advancing the future of agriculture,” said Rebecca Dittrich, vice president of impact at Chobani. “The longstanding partnership between University of Idaho and Chobani has opened up beautiful opportunities to advance ag research and to invest in the students bringing forth the promise of the future of good food. We look forward to continuing our commitment and investment in the Magic Valley and the indelible mark made by University of Idaho.”

The new cohort of scholars includes students pursuing a variety of degrees from the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, the College of Natural Resources and the College of Engineering.

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The students all have strong ties to Idaho agriculture, and most of them were raised on family-owned dairies. For one scholarship recipient, branding and vaccinating cattle on the family ranch was a favorite childhood activity. Some of them have been active in FFA and 4-H, includ-ing raising and showing 4-H animal projects and two are currently Idaho FFA State Officers. A couple of them became familiar with state politics by working as pages in the Idaho Senate. All of them are enthusiastic about food production and meeting the challenge of maintaining a safe and sustainable food supply.

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Because I have to pay for land selling calves, I have to be a low input, least cost producer focused on profit. That means smaller cows, more of them, producing more pounds per acre, sold at a higher price per pound. Smaller pastures, grazing longer, feeding less. Calving later with more live

calves, fewer cull cows, fewer replacements And it means

UI students included in new Chobani Scholars cohort

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A19

The new cohort brings the total number of U of I Chobani Scholars to 21.

“The Chobani Scholars program is a truly transformational program for our students,” said Mi-chael P. Parrella, dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. “Chobani’s generosity has made the difference for many students who might have otherwise been unable to pursue higher education. From my experience, our Chobani Scholars often become some of the most engaged undergrads in our college. We are proud to partner with Chobani in ensuring the future of Idaho agriculture is in the capable hands of future leaders like these.”

About the 2023 Chobani Scholars

Megan Taber of Shoshone is double majoring in animal and veterinary science: production and mechanical engineering. “From dinner table conversations about dairy pricing and the future of the industry to hands-on experience in production, the dairy industry permeates every aspect of my life. I want to design heavy equipment that gets farmers home faster and even more efficiently than others. I also want to work with companies and organizations like Farm Bureau and Land O’Lakes so I can help reduce the red tape that comes with farming.”

Melody McHan of Gooding is majoring in animal and veterinary science: business. “As an aspiring veterinarian, I learned from an early age the importance of animals in our lives and the powerful addition they can be in increasing our quality of life. Ever since I was a little girl, I have noticed that spending time with animals speaks to my soul and gives me the clarity I need in life to see my way forward. My room is full of skulls, science books and all things animal.”

Kamille Mirkin of Jerome is majoring in agricultural economics: agribusiness. “Attending the University of Idaho will allow me to work with a wide variety of industry professionals to develop a better perspective of many aspects of the agricultural industry. I will be able to gain hands-on experience with the professors and University of Idaho staff. I am also looking forward to the opportunities the many campus farms and labs have to offer.”

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Josiah Knapp of Hagerman is majoring in agricultural science, communication and leadership. “Right now in Idaho there is a need for discussion between the farmer and the consumer to help moderate what the farmer needs and the farmer wants and what the consumer needs and the consumer wants, and this is a conversation that I want to be a part of. I want to build my career in agricultural policy, agricultural law, environmental law – in that realm.”

Madeline “Zara” Burgoyne of Rupert is double majoring in water science and management and forestry. “Working at the Department of Environmental Quality this summer in the Twin Falls area I found a new love for water resource management. In the Snake River area, water is one of the most important resources since it is desert country. Farmers and ranchers live and die by it and so does everyone else, so much so that the Snake River Adjudication has been going on since 1987. For me this degree is about protecting Idaho’s resources in water, as well as protecting the people who use and need this water in order to eke out a living.”

Priceless

I’m a writing this to you , just to tell you, today, Even with me already letting you know, You can believe I’m really missing you and It was just a short time, since to work, I had to go.

I stopped by the bank, wondering what the price Of the love I have for you, would be worth today. The banker said, “There’s no figures go that high!”. So our love was worth more than he would venture to say.

He did tell me no one had ever come in, with that Many feelings for someone in his career, to this date. Said if he had some one like you to go home to, Many times he would not have worked so late.

I too, was telling him how lucky I was to have you, Which gets me back to what I was wanting to say. I’m a loving you more and more by the minute, With you on my mind, it’s a making this a good day...

By Robert Lee Ridgway Copyright 2003

+62 YW: +129 M: +29

bull.

Mead’s Creed

Margaret Mead, perhaps the most famous anthropologist in the world, helped shape our understanding of human behavior.

“The solution to adult problems tomorrow depends on large measure upon how our children grow up today.”

“No matter how many communes anybody invents, the family always creeps back.”

“The only thing worth doing was to add to the sum of accurate information in the world.”

“Every time we liberate a woman, we liberate a man.”

“What people say, what people do, and what they say they do are entirely different things.”

“Our humanity rests upon a series of learned behaviors woven together into patterns that are infinitely fragile and never directly inherited.”

“One of the oldest human needs is having someone to wonder where you are when you don’t come home at night.”

“Nobody has ever before asked the nuclear family to live all by itself in a box the way we do. With no relatives, no support, we’ve put ourselves in an impossible situation.”

“Sister is probably the most competitive relationship within the family, but once the sisters are grown, it becomes the strongest relationship.”

“Thanks to television, for the first time the young are seeing history made before it is censored by their elders.”

“Always remember that you are absolutely unique. Just like everyone else.”

#####

When you do not drink enough, and your body becomes dehydrated, the blood thickens as it does not have enough water in it anymore. That means your heart must work even harder to push around the thickened blood which can put your heart under strain. Drinking enough water daily means your blood will keep its water levels consistently, and the heart can do its job much easier.

#####

Drinking water while on a night out, or on a heavy night of drinking alcohol, can really help how you feel the next morning.

#####

By drinking water when you have blocked sinuses, it can help reduce the blockage and help you to breathe easier.

Contact

##### The nurse is registering a new patient, “When is your birthday?” The patient replies, “October 22.” The nurse asks, “What year?”

The patient shrugs, “Every year!

Montana Agritourism Conference

From MSU News Service

The Montana State University College of Agriculture and Montana Agritourism Fellows Program will host a new conference focused on the confluence of agriculture and tourism on Friday, May 3, on the MSU campus. The event will include speakers, educational sessions and networking opportunities for attendees.

The conference, titled “Building Agritourism from the Ground Up: Inviting You to the Table,” will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Strand Union Building. It is the culmination of a year of collaboration and learning by the first-ever cohort of the Montana Agritourism Fellows Program, which was established in 2022 to engage Montana producers in developing an environment of agritourism in the state. The event is also supported by the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program, for which MSU has served as the host institution since 2018.

Registration for the conference costs $50 per person and the deadline to register is April 19. A full agenda and registration can be found at www.montanaagritourism.com/events-2-1.

The 14 members of the Montana Agritourism Fellows Program came from nine Montana communities. Over a year, they visited sustainable agritourism operations across the state and learned about management, business, media relations and other relevant topics.

Topics covered at the event will include starting an agritourism business; marketing and communication; funding opportunities and initiatives focused on agritourism; public engagement; and more. Speakers will include Cole Mannix, founder of the Old Salt Co-op in Helmville; Nick DeCastro, founder of recreation access network LandTrust in Bozeman; and Glenna Brown and Elena Bigart of the University of Montana’s Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research.

“Our conference is designed to bring together industry leaders and professionals from various backgrounds in tourism, agriculture, education, community development and more,” said Shannon Arnold, a professor in MSU’s Department of Agricultural and Technology Education and a member of the leadership team for the Montana Agritourism Fellows Program. “We are looking forward to a day of insightful discussions, learning from experts and networking with peers from around the industry.”

Along with Arnold, the program is led by Dustin Perry, head of the Department of Agricultural and Technology Education; Kim Woodring, Toole County Extension agent; and Beth Shirley, assistant professor in technical communication in MSU’s Department of English.

Virtual Invasive Grass workshop

By Maya Kate Gilmore, University of Wyoming

The Institute for Managing Annual Grasses Invading Natural Ecosystems (IMAGINE) is hosting a free virtual workshop Wednesday, April 3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. MDT. The workshop, titled “Defending and Growing the Core by Breaking the Cycle of Annual Grass Invasion,” will cover the current invasive grass landscape in the West and give participants strategies and resources for proactive management.

“This workshop sets the stage for success with strategy and tools anchored to high value sagebrush areas,” says Lindy Garner, invasive species coordinator with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Its focus is on protecting and expanding intact native plant communities rather than starting with the most degraded areas.

Speakers at the workshop represent a breadth of expertise from Wyoming, Colorado, Montana, Nevada and Oregon. They include Brian Mealor, director of IMAGINE, Jaycie Arndt, Chad Boyd, Erika Fitzpatrick, Reese Irvine, Jeremy Maestas, Paul Meiman, Andrew Olsen, Petar Simic, Claire Visconti and others. To participate in the event, attendees must register online at https://www.invasivegrasses.com/ events before March 27.

The Invasive Annual Grass Tech Transfer Partnership is led by UW’s IMAGINE with collaboration from core partners in land management organizations across the West, including the USDA-NRCS Working Lands for Wildlife, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, Intermountain West Joint Venture, National Park Service, Montana State University and University of NevadaReno Extension.

Jeremy Maestas, national sagebrush ecosystem specialist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, says, “This event is timely and desperately needed to get communities talking about how they can be part of the solution to annual grass invasion. We have a generational opportunity to act now to save the sagebrush biome before it’s too late.”

The free workshop has only 1,000 slots, but recordings will be available to the public after the event. IMAGINE also plans to host additional workshops to empower land managers with scientific knowledge.

Future workshops will offer hands-on experience in invasive annual grass (IAG) management plans, including examples of the results of different management treatments. Other workshops will help local working groups examine their specific landscape and define their core native plant ecosystems. “I find meeting with local working groups and seeing them use a combination of the tools that we have provided them as well bringing their own local knowledge to start creating a management plan is very rewarding,” comments Claire Visconti, outreach program coordinator for IMAGINE.

For questions about IMAGINE or the virtual workshop, contact Claire Visconti at cviscont@uwyo. edu.

#####

The Moon is about onequarter the Earth’s size.

Decline in sheep and lamb inventory indicates opportunity for ranchers

The U.S. sheep and lamb inventory is down 2%.

The all sheep and lamb inventory in the U.S. on January 1 totaled 5.03 million head, down 2% from 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service. The report indicated a year-over-year decrease of 2% in North Dakota, 3% in Minnesota and 9% in South Dakota.

“U.S. lamb consumption was 1.1 pounds per person per year for 2023, and has room for growth domestically and abroad,” says Travis Hoffman, sheep specialist for NDSU Extension and UMN Extension. “We have the opportunity to rebuild our U.S. numbers to compete against imported lamb and match demand, as feeder and slaughter lamb prices are forecasted to increase 3% to 7% in 2024 and 2025.”

The U.S breeding ewe and ram inventory declined 2% with 60,000 fewer head, to 3.67 million head. This decrease is expected to lead to a 1% to 4% decline in U.S. lamb production in 2024 and 2025, according to the Livestock Marketing Information Center.

South Dakota is seventh in the na -

tion in breeding sheep with 158,000 head. Minnesota is ranked 13th with 79,000 head, and North Dakota is 27th with 45,000 head.

The 2023 lamb crop of 3.03 million head was down 2% from 2022, and the January 2024 market lamb and sheep inventory, reported at 1.36 million head, was down 2% from 2023.

The 2023 North Dakota lamb crop decreased 8% to 44,000 head, year over year, but gained 7% in production efficiency, reaching 119 lambs per 100 ewes. Though there are fewer ewes, North Dakota producers are improving their management and return per ewe, says Hoffman.

The Minnesota lamb crop dropped 6% to 85,000 head of lambs. However, Minnesota is second only to Virginia for sheep production efficiency in the nation with 133 lambs produced per 100 ewes.

South Dakota leads the Northern Plains region, producing 175,000 head with an intermediate lambing efficiency of 122 lambs per 100 ewes in 2023.

Shorn wool production in the U.S. was 22.7 million pounds in 2023, with an average weight of 7 pounds and a $1.56 per pound av-

The boss said I should go home because I really don’t look good. I don’t know if I should be happy to get the extra rest, or just be offended.

Some annoying cold caller was trying to sell me a luxury coffin. I could only say, “Dude, that is the last thing I’ll need.”

erage price paid. The total value for wool produced was $35.3 million.

According to Hoffman, Minnesota sheep producers tend to emphasize performance with a variety of medium wool breeds in small-to-medium farm flocks, while larger operations with fine wool breeds are more common in western North and South Dakota.

Wool prices for medium wools have remained sluggish over the past several years, averaging $0.30 per pound in Minnesota, while fine-fibered wools had higher returns, averaging $0.95 per pound in North Dakota and $1.25 per pound in South Dakota

Overall, current feeder and slaughter lamb prices have remained high to begin the year with prices of more than $250 per hundredweight for 60-to-90-pound lambs expected for the spring.

“The enthusiasm of young producers is evident, and with lower U.S. sheep supply, opportunity exists for near or greater than $200/hundredweight slaughter lambs this summer, resulting in a profitable 2024 lamb crop enterprise,” Hoffman says.

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GTA grant awardees

Director Christy Clark and the Agriculture Development Council announced recipients of the state’s $818,954 investment in innovative, value-added agriculture projects through the Montana Department of Agriculture’s Growth Through Agriculture (GTA) program.

From Plevna to Kalispell, a total of 22 agricultural businesses throughout the state were awarded funds to advance Montana’s agricultural economy.

“Year after year, MDA’s Growth Through Agriculture program focuses on giving our agricultural businesses the opportunity to grow and expand in order to add more value to their product and improve their bottom lines,” Montana Director of Agriculture Christy Clark said. “The Department of Agriculture is proud to invest in these innovative projects that will add value to Montana agriculture as well as contribute to economic development and local communities.”

The GTA program was established by the Montana Legislature in 1987 to strengthen and diversify Montana’s agriculture industry through development of new agricultural products and processes.

The GTA program offers funding in the form of a grant or loan or both and funding is determined by a seven member Agriculture Development Council (Council) during scheduled meetings. The Council members are appointed by the Governor. Growth Through Agriculture funding requires the investment of at least a $1 in matching funds for every $1 in program grant or loan assistance received.

2024 GROWTH THROUGH AGRICULTURE AWARDS

Farmer Boy Eggs – Drummond — $18,200 grant “Farmer Boy Eggs Equipment Upgrades”

Old Salt Meat Company – Helena — $50,000 grant “Growing Montana Value-Added Meat Products”

Bruce Seed Farm – Townsend — $25,000 “Seed Processing Facility”

Glacier Processing Cooperative – Kalispell — $50,000 grant “Glacier Processing Cooperative Equipment and Efficiency Improvement Project”

New England Chowder LLC dba Yellowstone Soup Co –Big Timber — $50,000 grant and $25,000 loan “Yellowstone Soup Co Facility and Market Expansion”

Big Sky Butcher LLC – Glendive — $50,000 grant “Big Sky Butcher LLC: Expansion for Inspection Project”

Farming Logistics LLC – Kalispell — $41,616 grant “Business Expansion through improvements of our current hops facilities and practices”

County Rail Farm dba Field Five Flower – Huson —

CONTINUED ON PAGE A27

He did it himself

Medical breakthroughs sometimes began with a visionary who asks, “What if…” and then proceeds to do something reckless enough to land him a write-up in Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Werner Forssmann was just such a man. It was this 25-year-old German medical student who asked in 1929. “Can I thread a flexible tube all the way to my heart through a vein, and then photograph it for the rest of the guys to see down at the beer hall?” Without waiting for an answer, Forssmann cut an incision into the basilic vein in his upper arm. The plucky student then threaded a urethral catheter–a transparent tube used to help patients who can’t urinate–into the vein. Werner walked down a flight of stairs with the tube in his arm, entered the radiology department, sat down on a table, and continued threading the tube toward his heart, using a mirror to watch his progress on a primitive X-ray device known as a fluoroscope. When he threaded the tube all the way into his heart’s right atrium, Forssmann X-rayed the event for posterity. At that moment, the diagnostic tool known as angiography was invented.

English physician William Harvey had proven in the 1600’s that the blood circulates through the body and that the heart is the center of circulation. So, in theory at least, Forssmann had known it should be possible to measure the activity of the human heart by determining pressures inside the heart’s chambers. If pressures were good, the heart was functioning normally; if low or erratic the physician could diagnose faulty cardiac function.

A year later, Forssmann repeated his trick. Only this time, he injected an iodine compound through the hollow catheter and into the right atrium of his own heart for the world to see. So now not only the catheter but the area of the heart injected with iodine could be seen with an X-ray.

Because of Forssmann, the diagnostic tool known as cardiac angiography was invented…and patients everywhere could now get big fat bills for “diagnostic procedures.”

GTA grant awardees

$18,000 grant “Tulip Program Expansion at County Rail Farm + Field Five Flowers”

Horizon Biologics LLC – Bozeman — $41,500 grant “Expansion of production capacity for bovine amniotic fluid products”

Eden Feeds – Great Falls — $50,000 grant “Feed Manufacturing Equipment to Increase Production and Create a Safer Work Environment”

Crooked Yard Hops – Bozeman — $10,860 grant “Hop Production Facility Infrastructure and Safety Improvements”

Skattum Dairy and Ranch – Livingston — $50,000 grant and $16,675 loan “Skattum Dairy Expansion to meet market demand for Montana made milk”

Speedy & Flo’s Sweet Corn – Hardin — $50,000 grant “Greenhouse Expansion in Big Horn County”

Taste of Paradise LLC – Livingston — $40,000 grant “Taste of Paradise, converting a Grade-A cattle dairy to an independent creamery for the production of cheese and ice cream in Livingston, MT. Adding dairy goats to the line of production for a combination of milk allowing for a unique product.”

Pelz MT LLC – Missoula — $25,000 grant “Machine for Mass Production of Local Montana Pelmeni Dumplings”

Homestead Organics Farm – Hamilton — $14,485 grant “Cooking up Opportunity! Upgrading our wholesale commercial kitchen to make it safer, more efficient, and user-friendly to existing and emerging small food entrepreneurs”

ZEGO – San Francisco (Belgrade) — $25,000 grant “Building a collaborative, vertically integrated value chain for Montana-grown, gluten-free specialty grains in Belgrade, MT”

Eagles Acres LLC – St Ignatius — $7,370 grant “Pastured Poultry Expansion”

Lame Jones Meats – Plevna — $35,250 grant “Cooler Expansion – GTA”

Schmitt Organic Farms – Wolf Point — $50,000 grant “Vertical Integration of Organic Grain Processing”

Yellowstone Pasta Company – Billings — $49,998 grant “Expansion of Yellowstone Pasta Company in both regional distribution and addition of employees”

Gally’s Brewing Company – Harlowton — $25,000 grant “Addition of Distilling Operations to Gally’s Brewing LLC”

Chasing profit

Nebraska farmer uses conservation practices to improve soil and financial returns.

If your idea of a successful Nebraska farmer is one who has the biggest equipment, and whose fields are regularly turned black soil with nothing but corn in perfect rows all the way to the horizon, then Todd Dzingle’s operation might disappoint you.

Dzingle’s corn and soybean fields in Hall, Adams, Clay, and Sherman Counties includes no-till on all of his acres and cover crops on the majority of them. “I’m after soil health, and profit per acre along the way,” he said. The challenge he has set for himself is to use the least amount of inputs while raising quality yields, making the return on investment for each bushel as high as possible.

“I’m happy with the yields, and each year I’m seeing better yields as I’m increasing my soil health. I want my investment per acre to be as slim as possible without sacrificing yield,” he said. Like any new practice this takes a little time, patience, and a positive attitude.

Dzingle applies nitrogen sparingly, opting instead to do all he can to boost the health of his soil, with the understanding a well-functioning soil system is the key to success. “I want to take care of the land. I’m not farming year-to-year. I’m looking five years plus down the road,” he said. This long-range view was part of the reason he signed up for the Nebraska Soil Carbon Project in 2021. This program provides funding incentives for producers in the Central Platte and Upper Big Blue Natural Resources Districts to implement no-till, cover crops, and rotational cropping systems as a means to restore soil health and sequester carbon.

Dzingle grew up farming with his grandpa and dad and later worked with local farmer Kurt Unger on his farm. He started his career as a crop consultant with Servi-Tech, helping other farmers make decisions about their most important resource, their soil. By 2009, he was ready to see for himself if there was any power in what he had been preaching. He rented 90 acres of ground from his dad and started farming his own way, including transitioning to conservation tillage. Over the years, he added more acres to his operation and more practices to those acres.

Spring

Barley:

Peas: Earlystar Yellow, Hampton Green

For some, the multigenerational aspect of farming can be a barrier to getting started with conservation practices, as there is pressure from the previous generations to farm ‘the way we’ve always done it.’ Dzingle said he was fortunate that he didn’t have that problem, as his dad was supportive of trying out new strategies along with Unger.

Informed and equipped by soil health experts like Dean Krull, Gabe Brown, Ray Archuleta, and advice from Kurt and Lisa Unger, Dzingle started experimenting with cover crops in 2016. He quickly discovered that using conservation practices requires courage and constant learning. “If you’re not messing up, you’re not trying hard enough,” he said. “You have to manage cover crops. I’ve had some bumps and bruises, but nothing that’s going to make me stop trying.”

Early on in his experimentation, he added a spring mix cover crop on a gravity irrigated area on a pivot corner, planting green. “Everything looked great, and then it just turned super dry and windy for about three weeks,” he recalled. “The oats pulled some moisture in and the ground started to crack and the corn started to suffer.”

The corn ended up being shorter on the corners, however, “It still ended up yielding right with the rest,” he said. The lesson he learned? “I should have had the cover crop sprayed sooner.” And yet, he did see excellent weed suppression in the cover cropped area and the next time he hilled the ground he was amazed at how loose the soil was. “There was a positive out of the mistake. That was a definite lightbulb moment for me. I could see how the tough clay had structure and really softened the ground from the cover that was planted.”

Another lightbulb moment for Dzingle was during the intense flooding across much of Nebraska in the spring of 2019. When the water receded from his farm in Sherman County, he noticed where he had planted rye the previous fall, he didn’t have soil loss, though the sandy soil was prone to erosion on the slopes. “I was really impressed that I just didn’t have the washing or the issues where I had the rye. That really sold me,” he said.

By the 2020 growing season, Dzingle was all in on cover crops. He purchased a 30-foot no-till drill and significantly increased the number of acres he had in cover crops. By 2021, he had enrolled in the Nebraska Soil Carbon Project, which he said has helped with seed costs.

Doing more with less is the strategy that excites Dzingle when it comes to farming. The longer he farms this way and the more comfortable he becomes with experimentation, the

Don Hagan Estate

605 S. Redstone Rd., Redstone, MT Directions. From Redstone, MT go west south west 6 miles on S Redstone Road.

AUCTIONEERS NOTE:

Don was a very good farmer and took exceptional pride in his machinery. Most everything was stored inside when not in use. This is a super clean line of equipment.

HARVESTING AND HAYING:

2018 New Holland CR 8.90 Revelation Combine, 1281 Engine hours, 933 separator hours, has all the options and just like new

2018 MacDon FD 145 Flex-Draper Header 45’

2016 MacDon D130XL Draper Header 32’

2018 Case IH 3016 Pickup Header (like new)

New Holland 970 Pickup Attachment with Rack Up Picker

2021 MacDon M1240 Swather, 1286 hours, very clean unit

2017 MacDon 16’ Rotary Disc Header

2006 Bourgault 750 Smart Cart Grain Cart

John Deere 467 Square Baler

Square Bale 6 pack Stooker

Older Versatile pull type swather 20’

AUGERS:

Brandt 1380 HP Swing Auger with power swing hopper

Brandt 1547 Grain Belt with 26.5 Kohler and EZ Mover

Sakundiak HD 7-39 Auger with Kohler engine and Hydraulic Pump for drag

Meridian HD 8-46 Auger with Mover and 31 hp Kohler (nice)

E-Kay Drag Auger

Wheatheart Jump Auger Auger Hoppers

TRUCKS AND TRAILERS:

2004 International 9400i Semi Truck, automatic transmission, Cat engine, 618,187 miles on odometer

2008 Freightliner Columbia Semi Truck, 14 L Detroit 60 series engine, 18 speed transmission-recent engine work with papers and complete service job.

1994 Wilson 36’ Hopper Trailer (lead)

1997 Wilson 28’ Pup Trailer

2010 Timpte 38’ Hopper Trailer (electric roll over tarp)

1999 Volvo Tandem Truck with 20’ Aluminum box and hoist, 7260 engine hours, 10 speed transmission, good rubber

2006 GMC C5500 Duramax Service Truck, 604,409 miles on odometer, 12 tool boxes on a 112’ flatbed.

1975 Chevy C60 Truck with 20’ box and hoist, Roll over tarp

286 IHC 1700 Loadstar Tandem Truck (rough)

Trail Tech 26’ Dual Tandem Flat Bed Trailer (pintle hitch)

NON RUNNING VEHICLES:

1997

(bad Tranny)

1955

194?

195?

1954

FarmHand

John

For-Most calf table (new-used once)

1200 gallon rectangle fiberglass water tank

DewEze Super Slicer II bale flaker

SEEDING AND TILLAGE:

New Holland P2050 Air Drill 65’ with two P1060 New Holland Carts (one tow between and one tow behind), Double Shoot, 10’ Spacing

Degelman 8000 model LR 8064 Land Roller 80’ (very few acres, like new)

White 272 Tandem Disc 28’

Flexi-Coil Fertilizer Spreader with 2340 Cart 45’

2009 Apache AS1010 Sprayer, 1000 gallon tank, back-boom shut off, 100’ booms

Graham-Hoeme 13’ toolbar

John Deere 22’ One-way

TRACTORS:

2013 NH T9.615 Tractor-3222 hrs,. auto steer-guidence system, very good rubber, triples on the tires, very clean tractor

1995 Ford Versatile 9480 Tractor-9192 hours, good rubber

2010 NH T6080 FWA Tractor with 850TL Loader and Grapple-3830 hours, good rubber, very nice tractor

1977 JD 4430 Tractor with 158 JD Loader and Grapple, 7961 hours, jobber 3 point hitch

G1000 Minneapolis Moline Wheatland Tractor

HAY:

Approximately 100+/- Round Bales of mixed hay (grass and some various weeds)

Approximately 200+/- Small square Bales (grass, mostly Brome)

OTHER MACHINERY:

2020 Meridian 520 Fuel Tank and Trailer

Tebben 10’ 3 point mower

Buhler Farm King Swath Roller

Degelman 3 Batt Rock Picker

MISCELLANEOUS EQUIPMENT & TOOLS:

BE Commercial 4000 psi Hot Water Pressure Washer

2--1600 Gallon Polly Water Tanks

1000 Gallon flat bottom black Free Form Water Tank

Handler Mixing Station Chemical pumps

2” water pump with Honda engine

Slide in Fire Fighting Unit with tank and pump

Toro Zero Turn Mower

GX 690 Honda Engine with Hydraulic pump

North Star Pallet Forks

Yamaha 450 Grizzly Four Wheeler

Portable Air Compressor

New 11R 24.5 Steer tire

Steel Fuel Transfer Tank 60”L x 36”W x 44”H

1000 Gallon Gas Tank and 110 volt pump

1000 Gallon Fuel Tank and 110 volt meter pump

Cadet 8’ Steel Flatbed mounted on junked out Chevy Dually (bed is good)

Du-Al hay basket attachment

Shaver Hydraulic Post Pounder Set of LT275/65R18 tires on rims

380/80R38 Tractor Tires, 1 new, 1 used on rim

Bolt Bins and Bolts

2 Tru-Klean Treaters

Clark Floor Scruber

Tools

Homak 9 Drawer Tool Box

Homak 10 Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Caroline Hydraulic Press

Rockwell Drill Press

Oxy AcetyleneTorch with bottles

Jacks, Ladders, Funnels, Grease Guns, Chain Saws, Rubber Belting, Brooms, Shovels, Saws, Grinders, Drills, Napa Diagnostic Tool, Shop Vac, Come-Alongs, Water cannisters, Much Much More………..

GUEST CONSIGNMENT:

Sakundiak 8” X 45’ Auger

Degelman rock picker

John Deere 15K pto generator

4 sets of John Deere wheel weights

VW Bug project car

Regular

Chasing profit

more willing he is to push the envelope. For example, he likes to wait until the last possible moment to terminate cover crops to get the maximum benefit of those plants building biomass and keeping the soil active. However, for a farmer who is just getting started with cover crops, he recommends early termination, especially if they are unsure about the timing. “Just pick a date and spray,” he said, as you’re still going to be better off having the cover crops on the ground for even a short amount of time than not having them at all.

How does he know if his investment in soil health is paying off? Other than the obvious benefits he has seen year after year including improved soil structure and infiltration rates, the proof is in the lab results. He samples annually and has seen a steady increase in soil organic matter. He also bases his fertilizer strategy on what the test results tell him he already has available in the soil. After all, fertilizer is expensive, and since his goal is to get the most return with the least investment, it makes sense to add only as much nitrogen as is needed.

These continuous improvements motivate Dzingle to do more for the soil. In the upcoming year, he plans to move from a single species cover crop to a multi-species mix. Eventually, he plans to integrate livestock into the operation.

While he jumped into conservation farming practices with both feet, he suggests that others set their own pace, even if that just means a small amount of acres in the first year.

“Start with what you are comfortable with and have an open mind,” he said. “Commit to a course of action for three to five years before you decide if it is working or not.” He also recommends getting in touch with local resources and programs through agencies that offer support and funding, such as NRCS and NRDs. “They have been good to work with. No one has been pushy. They are encouraging and supportive. They like to see you making the changes.”

Dzingle recognizes the importance of building a network of trusted resources in the regenerative ag space. “Green Cover Seed has also been a great resource for me. They are cover crop seed experts with a wealth of great information.”

While no-till with cover crops and livestock is the ideal, Dzingle says that one tillage pass is far better than three, and cover crops on a few acres is much better than none. He encourages others to look more closely at what they are doing to see where there could be improvement--and that goes for landowners as much as operators. “Landowners renting out their ground need to work with the producer. You shouldn’t put it all on the farmer to make these changes,” he said, because if it’s your soil, you should be investing in it. Rented land can create a disconnect from the soil where neither party truly feels like they are a steward.

The biggest hurdle for some farmers in implementing conservation practices is the fear of what the landlord or others will say, especially if they make a mistake, Dzingle said. He tells other farmers to “have blinders on to begin with, be confident and okay with seeing your fields look different from conventional practices, the end product will still turn out.”

Most are hesitant to step outside the boundaries of conventional agriculture, he said. But as for him, “It feels good to work with nature and getting the soil back to a healthy state while improving yields with less inputs.”

National Pi Day

Date When Celebrated : This holiday is always held on March 14

National Pi Day celebrates Pi, a mathematical concept and a number that never ends....at least no one and no computer has found the end yet. Often, we round it off to 3.14. If you are a mathematician, this is your day. For National Pi Day is a celebration of mathematics. And, more specifically.... it celebrates "Pi".

Today is the birthday physicist Albert Einstein. Einstein was born on March 14, 1879. The date is also represented as 3.14. We strongly suspect some combination of these two facts is why someone created the day on March 14th. However, "Pi" was around long before Albert Einstein was born.

History and Origin of “National Pi Day”:

The U.S. House of Representatives passed a non-binding resolution (HRES 224),[5] recognizing March 14, 2009 as National Pi Day.

The day was created by Larry Shaw in 1989. The holiday was originally celebrated at the San Francisco Exploratorium, where Shaw worked as a physicist.

2017 Ford F250

2013 Ford F350

2006 Chevrolet 2500HD

2018 Chevrolet 2500 HD

2020 Chevrolet 2500HD

2019 Chevrolet 2500HD

2021 Chevrolet 2500HD Crew

seat, power windows, locks and mirrors. All powered by the Awesome 6.6 litre gas engine. $45,999

2020 Chevrolet 2500HD

Double cab, 4x4 work truck with 8-ft. bed, 6.6 litre gas engine, Z71 Offroad package, power seat, windows, locks and mirrors, bed liner, trailer tow package $39,999

2019 Ford F350 1-Ton

Supercab, 4x4 with 8-ft. long bed, 6.2 gas engine, 3.73 gears, locking rear differential, cloth seat, vinyl floor, manual windows, locks and mirrors. Nice truck. $31,999

2017 Ford F350 1-Ton

Crew cab, 4x4, Commercial cab and chassis with 9-ft. flatbed, 40 gallon AFT axle gas tank, 11,400 lb. GVW, locking rear differential, floor shift transfer case, 6.2 litre gas, 101,500 miles.

2017 Ford F250

cab, 4x4, 8-ft. box with bed liner and aluminum Tommylift liftgate, only 27,500 miles on 6.2 liter gas engine, 3.73 gears and 10,000 lb GVW, very good condition $39,999

2012 Ford F350 1-Ton

Supercab, 4x4 and 8-ft. long bed, B&W hide a ball, 4.30 gears, 10,700 lb GVW, 6.2 litre gas engine, solid front axle, manual hubs, locking rear differential, 100,000 miles, factory tow package with brake controller. $24,999

2021 Chevrolet 2500 HD

April

By Angie Johnson, NDSU

Seconds matter in rural injury incidents or medical emergencies, and the time it takes first responders to travel to an injured person can be critical to survival, says Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety coordinator.

To help reduce deaths caused by unintentional injury, NDSU Extension and the NDSU School of Nursing have partnered to offer free, Stop the Bleed trainings for residents of rural communities across North Dakota. Nursing faculty have traveled to North Dakota counties and worked with NDSU Extension agents to conduct the trainings.

“We are excited to offer more trainings this spring at a variety of locations across North Dakota,” shares Johnson.

Stop the Bleed is a nationally recognized, 90-minute certification program, providing participants with hands-on opportunities to recognize life-threatening bleeding and intervene effectively by properly using a tourniquet in the event of blood loss caused by an injury.

Trainings that have been scheduled for the 2024 spring season are:

McKenzie County: March 13 – 2 p.m. CST

McKenzie County: March 13 – 5 p.m. CST

Williams County: March 14 – 9:30 a.m. CST

Williams County: March 14 – 1 p.m. CST

Ramsey County: March 21 – 5:30 p.m. CST

Ramsey County: March 21 – 7:15 p.m. CST

Cass County: April 15 – 6 p.m. CST

Cass County: April 16 – 6 p.m. CST

Richland County: April 16 – 7 p.m. CST

Sargent County: April 17 – 5:30 p.m. CST

Location details for each session and registration is available at bit.ly/STBcountyregistration.

Stop the Bleed sessions are of no cost to participants. However, preregistration is required one week prior to each training session. Sessions are limited to 10 to 12 participants. Personal Stop the Bleed kits will be provided on first-come, firstserved basis.

Additional training dates will be scheduled in more locations across North Dakota for fall of 2024. If you would like to learn more about Stop the Bleed and to be notified of possible trainings near you, visit the NDSU Extension Stop the Bleed webpage at ndsu.ag/ stopthebleed.

Emergency management personnel may qualify for National Continuing Competency Requirement (NCCR) and Local Continuing Competency Requirement (LCCR) units through this training, and also may be eligible to become a certified Stop the Bleed instructor in their community.

Stop the Bleed training is funded through a threeyear grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

As a student-focused, land-grant, research institution, we serve our citizens. #####

Nebraska’s official state slogan is “Nebraska: Honestly, it’s not for everyone.”

TRAILERS FOR SALE

HP 7x16

SureTrac 81/2x20+5 GN deckover, 15K GVW, wide ramps, dual jacks, radial tires. Was $11,995 Now $11,295

SureTrac 7x16+4 equipment tilt, 14K GVW, 4-ft. stationary, hydraulic lock valve. Was $8995 Now $8195

SureTrac 7x16+6 equipment tilt, 16K GVW, 16 ply tires, hydraulic lock valve. Was $11,995 Now $11,695

LoPro dump, 14K GVW, scissor hoist, 7 gauge floor, tarp, spare.

Tips for managing calving in muddy conditions

By Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension Beef Educator

Mud conditions in calving areas can lead to health concerns in both the cow and calf. Mud and moisture prevent the hair coat from insulating and maintaining body temperature, leaving newborn calves vulnerable to hypothermia. Mud also increases the energy requirements for the cow and may lead to decreases in body condition score (Nickles, et al. 2022).

Because of health concerns, it is important to reduce the effects of mud in calving areas. The following are a few management strategies to decrease the risk of health events due to mud during calving season.

Calf scours

When mud and fecal material are on udders, calves have the potential to ingest disease causing pathogens when they nurse. The environmental pathogens amplify with each new animal introduced to the calving area.

The Sandhills Calving Method can be modified to individual systems by using two key concepts:

Calves are born in a clean area to minimize the number of pathogens in the environment at birth.

Calves are grouped by similar ages to prevent direct contact between younger and older calves. Keeping age groups together is one way to minimize risk of exposure to large amounts of disease-causing agents.

Can the pens be split with temporary fencing or other creative methods of separation? Are there areas that may be accessed that are normally not used during calving? Once areas are designated, heavy bred cows can be rotated out of the pairs group to start another age group

Calving shelters

Calf escape areas and shelters are options for calves to go without cow traffic. Hot wires in corners of pens or creep areas provide additional space for calves to rest. It is important to monitor these areas often and remove soiled bedding to prevent the spread of disease.

Navel ill

Navel ill occurs when bacteria from a contaminated environment enters the calf naval and creates an abscess or infection.

Bedding, such as round straw bales or cornstalks behind wind shelters, will provide areas for cows to calve without contamination of udders and navels. Again, this area needs to be monitored closely and refreshed often to minimize disease risk.

Spraying or dipping the navel area with a disinfecting liquid, such as 7% tincture of iodine, will promote drying and healing of the umbilical cord.

Ensuring adequate and timely colostrum consumption is another important preventative health management strategy.

Seth Becker and Tamera Rice enjoyed the discussion of the Agritourism class at Montana’s Next Generation conference. Seth is also a past speaker, presenting last year on his Stick Leg Ranch direct marketing business with his wife. Photo by Kari Lewis.

Lemon Poppy Seed Cake

2 1/4 cups cake flour

1 1/8 cups white sugar

1 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 tablespoons lemon zest

4 1/2 tablespoons poppy seeds

1 1/3 cups unsalted butter, softened

5 eggs

3/4 cup white sugar

3/4 cup lemon juice

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x5-inch loaf pan. Sift together flour, 1 1/8 cup white sugar, and salt. Mix in lemon peel, poppy seeds, and butter. Beat in eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. In a saucepan over low heat; cook and stir 3/4 cup white sugar and lemon juice together until sugar is dissolved. Let cool to just warm or to room temperature. Remove cake from the oven and place the pan on a wire rack. Place a cookie sheet underneath the rack. Prick the top of cake several times with a toothpick. Brush top of cake with warm or room temperature syrup, allowing lots of syrup to run down and soak into the sides and bottom of cake. Cool slightly in the pan before removing cake to a wire rack to cool completely. When completely cooled, wrap cake in foil or plastic wrap and let cake rest at least one day before serving.

Salmon Loaf

1/4 cup salted butter

1/3 cup diced onion

2 (7 ounce) cans red salmon, drained

1/2 cup finely crushed saltine cracker

1/2 tsp kosher salt, or to taste

1/8 tsp cayenne pepper

1/4 tsp Worcestershire sauce

2 tsp rice vinegar

3 large eggs

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Generously butter a loaf pan. Melt butter over medium heat in a saute pan until bubbling. Toss in onion, give the pan a quick shake, and stir with a wooden spoon; cook for 1 minute. Turn off the heat and allow to cool. Place salmon in a large mixing bowl and mash with a fork. Add cracker crumbs, salt, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, rice vinegar, butter, and onions; mix and mash with a spatula or spoon until smooth. Separate eggs, adding whites to a clean glass, metal, or ceramic bowl and adding yolks to salmon mixture. Mix egg yolks and salmon until well combined. Whisk whites to medium stiff peaks. Gently fold into salmon mixture in 2 additions. Transfer salmon mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to even it out and shake and tap the pan to remove any air bubbles. Bake in the center of the preheated oven until a toothpick comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Let rest for 5 minutes, then carefully turn loaf out onto a cutting board. Slice and serve.

Slow Cooker Carnitas

3-4 lb pork shoulder trimmed slightly

1 1/2 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp ground cumin

2 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 onion small , diced

3 cloves garlic minced

1/3 cup orange juice

2 tsp orange peel finely shredded

1/3 cup lime juice

1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce chopped

1-2 Tbsp

In a small bowl, whisk together the dried oregano, cumin, salt and pepper. Rub seasoning mixture onto pork shoulder on all sides. Add onion, garlic, orange juice and peel, lime juice and chipotle pepper to slow cooker. Place pork on top. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until internal temperature is 145 degrees F. Remove pork from slow cooker onto cutting board, let cool slightly. Shred pork with forks. Heat oil in skillet on stove. Add pork and some of the juice from the slow cooker. Turn often to brown the pork until juices have evaporated and pork is nicely browned. Serve immediately with tortillas and toppings.

How to hypnotize a chicken

If you ever get a chance to place a chicken under your spell, give it a try–it’s fascinating to watch, and harmless and painless for the chicken. (Who knows–you might even win a bar bet.)

Step 1: Techniques vary widely from place to place. Some methods call for laying the chicken gently on its side, with one wing under its body, holding it in place with one hand so that your other hand is free. Others say that turning the chicken upside down, lying on its back with its feet up in the air, is best. Either way, the disoriented bird will need a second to regain its bearing, but once it does it will not be bothered by being in this unfamiliar position.

Step 2: Some hypnotists advocate placing a finger on the ground at the tip of the chicken’s beak and drawing a line four inches long in the dirt extending out from the beak and parallel to it (picture Pinocchio’s nose growing). Trace your finger back and forth along the line for several seconds. Other practitioners say that drawing a circle, not lines, in the dirt around the chicken’s head works best. Still others say all you need to do is stroke the chicken on its head and neck with your index finger. If one method doesn’t seem to work, try another.

Step 3: Whichever method you try, keep at it for several seconds. That’s about how long it takes for a chicken to go into a trance. Its breathing and heart rate will slow considerably, and its body temperature may even drop a few degrees.

Step 4: You can now let go of the chicken. It will lie perfectly still in a trancelike state for several seconds, several minutes, or even an hour or more before it comes out of the trance on its own. Or can also awaken the chicken yourself by clapping our hands or nudging it gently. The unofficial world record for a chicken trance: 3 hours 47 minutes.

Step 5: If holding a chicken in one hand while hypnotizing it with the other proves too difficult, another technique calls for putting the chicken in the same position it goes into when it’s asleep–with its head under one wing–and rocking it gently to induce a trance. #####

The only scenario where you really need a land line today is when you’re trying to find your smartphone.

##### Facebook is much like a fridge. You visit every 10 minutes, even though you know there’s nothing worth it in there.

GRASS SEEDER

By Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension food and

nutrition specialist

My husband and I took bites of the rice on our plates at the same time in the restaurant. We looked up at each other immediately.

The rice was at room temperature. We expect cooked food to be served hot.

I pointed at the rice with my fork and mouthed, “Don’t eat it.”

The rest of our food was not particularly hot either. I could not ask to inspect their kitchen because I am not a badge-carrying health inspector. I have, however, trained hundreds of students and professionals about food safety, so I was thinking about the possibilities.

I knew that mishandled rice has been implicated in many foodborne illness outbreaks.

One busy person was serving as the host, server and cashier in a good-sized restaurant. Was our food plated and left on a counter? We did not know the length of time the food had been sitting outside of temperature control.

Or, had the food been made earlier in the day and not held hot on the serving line? Was their hot-holding equipment malfunctioning?

Eating room-temperature rice was not worth the risk. Technically, cooked food served to the public must be at a minimum of 135 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the Food Code issued by the Food and Drug Administration.

Why was I worried about the rice? Heat-treated plant foods such as rice have been linked to many foodborne illness outbreaks. Experts estimate that more than 63,000 people are sickened annually in the U.S. from a microorganism associated with mishandled rice.

When cooked rice and other starchy foods, including pasta and potatoes, are held at lower temperatures, the bacteria can produce toxins in the food. That was my concern.

Rice, for example, can contain Bacillus cereus, a type of bacteria that can produce a heat-stable toxin (poison) in food. When rice is properly cooked and stored, it does not cause a problem.

If I had taken the potentially contaminated rice home and cooked it to a high temperature, I would not have been able to inactivate the toxin.

In fact, the usual type of toxin in mishandled rice can cause vomiting and sometimes diarrhea within 30 minutes to five hours. Another syndrome associated with this bacteria can cause diarrhea within 16 hours. In both cases, the symptoms disappear within a day or two but could have more serious effects among older and younger age groups.

We left the rice on our plates. The risk was not worth it. I need to let the health department know about this, I thought.

“I’m feeling a little twinge,” my husband said as we were leaving. I wasn’t sure if he was serious or kidding.

We were about 15 minutes from home. Step on it, I thought to myself as he drove us home.

I only had my purse in the car, not a barf bucket. I was not ready to sacrifice my new purse. Fortunately, we did not get sick.

If the restaurant had not been so busy and understaffed, I would have let the server know. We probably should have assessed the situation and left before ordering food.

I am hoping that two large piles of rice on our plates gave an indication of our dissatisfaction with the food.

I will discuss this incident with a local inspector, or my conscience will bother me that I’m putting others at risk.

Is it possible to have safe rice? Of course. We eat rice regularly in our home and in restaurants.

When making rice, follow the usual food safety rules. Wash your hands before beginning to cook, and follow the cooking directions on the package.

If you are cooking rice ahead of time for your family or guests, hold it hot. That means 140 degrees Fahrenheit according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s home food safety rules. Measure the temperature with a food thermometer to be sure the food is hot enough.

Keeping hot foods hot will prevent the growth of bacteria and the production of toxins.

If you decide to make rice ahead of time and serve it later, follow some additional rules. Cool it quickly. Divide the cooked rice into small containers only two or three inches deep. A metal container, such as a cake pan, cools food faster. Use the properly refrigerated leftover rice within a few days.

If you ever doubt the safety of food at home or in a restaurant, take the safe route.

Local cattleman honored with award

By Chabella Guzman, communications specialist

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff held its Holiday Banquet with faculty and staff on January 5 at the Weborg Center in Gering.

The annual PREEC award for Outstanding Service to Panhandle Agriculture was awarded to Dr. Ivan Rush, an Emeritus Professor of Beef Nutrition at the Panhandle Research & Extension Center.

“The award recognizes someone who provides outstanding service to agriculture in western Nebraska,” said Mitchell Stephenson, Nebraska Extension Range Management Specialist and PREEC Associate Center Director. “The criteria include the value of work they’ve done, cooperation with UNL specialists and educators; leadership in agriculture; community service other than agriculture; and level of impact on Panhandle agriculture.”

Rush began his career in the Panhandle in 1963 as an extension agent in Dawes County. He left briefly to work internationally and returned in the late 60s to take the reins as the beef extension specialist at the Panhandle Research and Extension Center. Rush was an integral part of many of the improvements at the feedlot coming from his efforts and work. He retired in 2008, but his service to agriculture has continued. Ivan and his wife Doris are well known for their tireless service to the Nebraska Cattle industry, and he was recently honored for that service by the Nebraska Cattlemen Association. Rush also serves within the Nebraska Sheep and Goat Association.

The banquet also recognized years of service:

Rex Neilsen, research technician, retired - 45 years of service

Cardinal Farrington, facilities manager – 5 years of service

Ryan Parker, research technician - 5 years of service

David Blanke, research technician – 5 years of service #####

There are many things in life that give me great joy. For instance cooking my children and ignoring commas.

Super Fenceline Concrete Feed Bunks

38”

Adding calcium to soils

By Greg Basky, Communications Coordinator, Canadian Light Source

Farmers add calcium to their soil for many reasons related to increasing crop yields -- including regulating pH and improving soil structure.

Using the Canadian Light Source (CLS) at the University of Saskatchewan, scientists from Cornell University and Purdue University have identified a previously undiscovered mechanism triggered by calcium when it’s added to soil. Their finding could lead to more strategic use of the mineral in agriculture. Researchers already knew that calcium impacts the way organic matter is stabilized in soil. What wasn’t known was whether calcium had an effect on which microbes were involved and how they acted. Microbes are microscopic organisms that live in the air, soil, and water; in soil, they process soil organic matter and help promote plant growth.

“We showed that by adding calcium to soil, we changed the community of microbes in the soil and the way they process organic matter,” says lead researcher Itamar Shabtai, an assistant scientist with the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. “They processed it in a more efficient manner – more carbon was retained in the soil and less was lost to the atmosphere as CO2.”

Carbon, which makes up about half of the organic matter in soil, is incredibly important to almost all soil properties, says Shabtai, who carried out the research as part of his postdoctoral fellowship at Cornell. “Soils that contain more carbon are generally healthier. They are better able to hold on to water in drought conditions. Soils with higher amounts of organic carbon are also able to deliver nutrients more efficiently to plants and promote plant growth, and they’re more resistant to erosion.”

From a global point of view, soils contain significant amounts of carbon, more than plants and the atmosphere combined, says Shabtai, so holding on to that carbon can help address climate change. “If we can increase carbon in soil, we can perhaps make a dent in the increase in atmospheric CO2 that we’re seeing.

The researchers used the SGM beamline at the CLS to measure the amount of plant matter decomposed following the addition of calcium, while the Mid-IR beamline enabled them to identify and quantify the stabilized carbon in the soil – data impossible to gather in any other way, says Shabtai.

Their findings can potentially benefit agricultural producers by giving them another tool to help maintain and improve the organic matter in their soils. “Now that we have a better understanding of how calcium can impact how microbes improve soil carbon, we can perhaps use soil amendments that contain calcium and are already being used by farmers – such as lime and gypsum – in a way that can benefit soil organic matter” #####

My husband told me I should put a bit more salt in the stew next time. I’m torn now whether to tell him that it was actually leftover dog food that I’d put in the fridge.

Worship of Tools Day

Date When Celebrated : This holiday is always held on March 11

There are few things that the male population worships more than his tools. Power tools, hand tools, yard and garden tools, we love them all. Got duplicates? No problem as you can’t have too many tools. To some guys, any tool is a natural extension of their arm. So, Worship of Tools Day is a logical day of celebration for every male. And, it’s not just a guy thing. More than a few ladies love them and participate in this day, too. Many ladies love to work with tools in their hands, and find today to be an important holiday.

Need a birthday or Christmas gift idea for one of the boys in the family? You’re never lacking for tool ideas when you visit your local hardware store. However, it does pay to ask him for a list, as chances are he already has a toolbox or two full of them.

Celebrate today by working with tools, and buying a couple of new ones. Receiving a tool as a gift today, makes this truly a special day.

• Song of the Day: If I Had a Hammer

• Favorite Television Show: Home Improvement

• How to Celebrate Worship of Tools Day

There are so many ways you can celebrate and enjoy this very special holiday. Here are some ideas:

• Begin today by cleaning and sharpening your existing tools.

• Start a project that requires tools. The more needed for the project, the better.

• Rearrange them.

• Buy a new tool chest.

• Clean and/or sharpen them.

• Give a tool as a gift to someone.

I have to eat an earth worm every day so I don’t die. I’m very grateful to my brother for pointing this out to me 30 years ago when we were little.

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#86591

R4045 with Command View II Plus cab, guidance, section control, 120-ft. boom with auto boom leveling, stainless steel tank, foam markers, RH and LH fence row nozzles, no eductor, 420/95R50 tires. Stock #86591 $169,000 (12)

2012 John Deere 4940 with 120-ft. steel boom, 20” spacing, 480/80R50 tires, boom level, stainless tank, hydraulic tread adjust, no GPS, but guidance ready, traction control, high flow pump, eductor, SS plumbing, RH and LH fence row nozzles. Stock #86160.$137,500 (1)

2012 John Deere 4940 with 120-ft. boom, 15” spacing, 380/105R50 tires, Hi-Flo solution pump, stainless steel plumbing, BoomTrac Pro 5 leveling, SF3000 receiver, AutoTrac and section control activations. Stock #88812......$137,500 (1)

2007 John Deere 4930 with 120-ft. boom, 20” spacing, high flow, 5 sensor BoomTrac, eductor, VF420/95R50=80%, includes a 2600 with SF1 and swath control and an ITC with extend. Stock #88839 $105,000 (14)

2009 John Deere 4830 with 650/65R38 floats, 380/105R50 skinny tires, 1000 gallon stainless tank with 3” fill, dual flow meter, poly rinse tank, chemical eductor, 100-ft. boom with 5 way nozzle body, 5 sensor BoomTrac Pro, hydraulic tread adjust, traction control, 2600 display with AutoTrac and Swath Control Pro, 3000 receiver, fence row nozzles, HID lights. Stock #88740..$125,000 (14)

Apache AS1010 with 100-ft. booms, (new in 2020), 20” spacing, Raven Viper Pro guidance, 5 zone section control, triple nozzle bodies, 1000 gallon tank. Stock #86087 $85,000 (1)

2009 Apache AS1010 with 100-ft. boom, 1000 gallon tank, boom height control, full AutoSteer, 380 tires. Stock #88023

$69,500

2014 Case IH Patriot 2240 with 90-ft., 20” spacing, 600 gallon, SS, Aim Command, 420/85R38 (80%), manual solution, eductor, front fill, AccuBoom height. Stock #84805 $117,500 (2)

2007 Case IH SPX3310 sprayer with 90ft. booms, 1000 gallon stainless tank, 5 way nozzle bodies, stainless eductor, 380/90R46 tires, fenders, 600 hours on reman engine, Trimble 250 display with EZ steer, 5 section - section control, manual boom height, tread adjust. Stock #88055 $53,000 (11)

By Julie Garden-Robinson, NDSU Extension

and

In the past couple weeks, I interacted with individuals who have a nut allergy, lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, soy allergy or milk allergy.

In most cases, I knew about the allergies and intolerance ahead of time. However, in one case I did not. Fortunately, she was an adult well aware of what ingredients to avoid in our taste tests.

For children, detecting food allergies can be challenging and often requires medical testing.

Sometimes allergy symptoms can be fairly mild. People with certain types of allergies may have a rash, itchy mouth or itchy ears, nasal congestion, sneezing or an odd taste in their mouths.

For example, you may think children have an ear infection or cold when they pull on their ears, have a runny nose or sneeze. In some cases, these could be symptoms of mild food allergies.

For others, allergic symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening. An allergic response activates our immune system. Severe symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling of the tongue, chest pain and/or lack of consciousness.

Anaphylaxis is the worst-case scenario. Signs of anaphylaxis may include a tightening of airways, swollen throat, difficulty breathing, rapid pulse and loss of consciousness. Without prompt emergency treatment, anaphylaxis could be fatal. An epinephrine (adrenaline) auto-injector can be a life-saving medical intervention.

Do you know anyone who is allergic to certain foods? Most of us do.

In fact, 32 million Americans have food allergies according to some researchers. That is about one in 10 adults and one in 13 children.

Food packages are labeled so you know which allergens are present and you can avoid consuming the food. Many restaurants also indicate which recipes contain allergens.

If you are preparing food for someone with food allergies, you need to avoid “cross contamination” with the allergenic substance from one food or piece of equipment to another.

CONTINUED ON PAGE A42

2007 Case IH SPX3310 with 90-ft. boom, 20” spacing, stainless tank and plumbing, 6 section Trimble guidance. Stock #89328

$42,500 (1)

2000 Case IH SPX3185 with 90-ft. boom, 20” nozzle spacing, active suspension, 380/90R46 tires, TopCon GPSmonitor, ATU and receiver, John Deere Green Seeker. Stock #87392 $45,000 (3)

2012 Versatile SX275 with 120-ft. boom with boom leveling, stainless steel tank, narrow tires, hydraulic tread adjust, guidance ready with receiver and display 20” spacing. Stock #86825 $85,000 (14)

2004 Peterbilt Stahly 80-ft. spray system mounted on Peterbilt 335 with automatic transmission, 1800 gallon tank, 20” spacing. Includes Trimble EZ guide system. Stock #86442 $59,500 (2)

2012 Terragator TG8400 spreader, 70-ft.

#88788

2011 Versatile SX275 self propelled sprayer with 120-ft. booms, 1000 gallon tank, Cummins engine, Allison transmission, Raven display with AutoTrac, section control and boom height, air suspension, 380/90R46 tires with rear duals, 3 way nozzle body. Stock #88788 $103,000 (11)

1999 Willmar 7200 with 70-ft. boom, poly tank, narrow tires, hydraulic tread adjust. Stock #87715 $7500 (14) 1995 Melroe sprayer with 200 gallon tank, hand wand, 50-ft. boom. Stock #89526 $4900 (14)

36” Camso track, E18 transmission, Ultimate comfort cab, Air Seat Plus suspension, Active Command steering, 110 GPM dual hydraulic pump, 6 SCVS, 1000 PTO, polyurethane mid rollers, fixed 87” track spacing, tow cable, Intelligent power mgmt, hydraulic trailer brake, 20 front weights with bracket, extended warranty until Dec 2025/1500 hours. Stock #88081 $725,000 (1)

2022 John Deere 9RX540 track tractor with E18 transmission, includes 6000 receiver (SF1), 4600 with premium 3.0 activation, cab suspension, Ultimate cab, Ultimate lighting, PTO, 5 rear remotes with 55 GPM pump, 30” tracks on 87” spacing, Cat 5 drawbar, greaseable steering cylinder, 1/2” PowerBeyond.

Stock #87939 $640,000 (14)

1993 John Deere 8770 with 24F/6R manual transmission, 3 hydraulics, no PTO, 20.8x38 tires with duals, weights. Includes JD ATU300 with GreenStar harness (no display or receiver). Stock #88718 $57,500 (14)

2022 John Deere 8R310 with IVT transmission w RH reverser, less receiver, air seat with cab suspension, 84 GPM hydraulic pump, 13/4 1000 PTO, 6 SCVs, 380/90R54 with duals, 380/80R38 front tires with duals, 22 front weights, rear weights. Stock #86945 $392,500 (15)

2022 John Deere 8R370 with MFWD with ILS, IVT (LHR), Active Command steer, Intelligent 6 SCVs, 1000/1000E PTO, 3-point, 118.5” axle, Ultimate comfort, 84 gpm hydraulic pump, air seat with cab suspension, 480/70R34 front duals, 520/85R46 rear duals, rear weights, 22 front weights. Includes AT activation, 4600 command center, no receiver. Stock #88052 $495,000 (1)

2022 John Deere 5090E 90 hp utility tractor with 24/12 power reverser transmission, standard cab with air suspension seat, corner post exhaust, 3 rear SCVs, 2 mid SCVs, MFWD, 18.4R30 rear tires, 12.4R24 front tires, PTO, 3-point hitch, loader ready. Stock #88004.$73,000 (4)

(1)

2012

Deere 1890

no till drill, 10”

single shoot air package for tow between cart, All Run Blockage system for seed, 430 bushel cart, Uniforce down pressure system. Stock #86592 $192,500 (12)

2022 John Deere 8RT370 track tractor with 16-ft. track spacing with 16.5” 6500 series belts, poly mid rollers, 6000 receiver with RTK activation (no radio), 4600 display with automation 3.0, Signature edition, Ultimate cab, Ultimate lighting, 40K IVT with RHR, IPM, 6 remotes with high flow pump, 22 front weights, 12 side mount weights, radar, 1/2” PowerBeyond, 20,000 lb. 3-point hitch, Cat 4 swinging drawbar. Stock #87612 $469,500 (15)

2022 John Deere 6215R with IVT Command Pro transmission (40K), AutoTrac ready, 680R loader with grapple and loader lights, front suspension, Ultimate cab, cab suspension, Panorama glass roof with premium lights, 4600 display with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, 480/80R50 rear single tires, 420/85R34 front tires, front fenders, 18 front weights, 1800 lbs. rear weights, Cold Start II fuel heater, 3-point Quick Coupler. Stock #88841 $298,000 (14)

2022 John Deere 6215R with IVT (40K), 680R loader with grapple, premium cab with cab suspension, premium seat, wide angle mirrors, Panorama glass roof with lights, 3 rear E-SCVs, 540E/1000/1000E PTO, 620/70R42 rear with rear fender extension, (1800 lbs. rear weights), 480/70R30 front with turntable fenders, 4200 display with AutoTrac activation, heated rear window, cold start with fuel heating, fuel tank bottom guard. Stock #87952 $263,500 (1)

2004 John Deere 6715 with standard cab, MFWD, PowrQuad 16/16 with LH reverser, 18.4x38 rear, 14.9x24 front tires, 3 SCVs, rear PTO 540/1000, loader with bucket. Stock #82997 $38,000 (15)

2022 John Deere 6R 165 with Command Pro transmission, front suspension, 640R with grapple and loader lights, AutoTrac ready, 4600 with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, Ultimate cab, Ultimate suspension, Panorama glass roof with premium lights, 3 E-SCVs, 540E/1000/1000E PTO, 480/80R42 with fender extensions, (1800 lbs weights), 420/85R28 with turnable front fenders, Cold Start II, fuel header, 3-point quick coupler. Stock #88840 $257,500 (14)

2023 John Deere 6R 155 with 20 speed AQ, front suspension, AutoTrac ready, 4200 display with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, cab suspension, heated rear window, Panorama glass roof with premium lights, 3 E-SCVs, 540E/1000/1000R PTO, 480/80R42 rear with fender extension (1800 lbs weights) 420/85R28 with front turnable fender, Cold Start II, fuel heater, 3-point quick coupler, 640R loader with bucket grapple. Stock #88835 $227,500 (14)

2023 John Deere 6R 145 with Command Pro IVT, front suspension, 640R with grapple and loader lights, AutoTrac ready, 4600 with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, ultimate cab, ultimate seat, premium Panarama Glass roof, cab suspension, 3 rear E-SCV, 480/80R42 with fender extensions (1800 lbs. weights), 420/85R28 with turnable front fenders, Cold Start II, fuel heater, 3-point quick coupler. Stock #88837 $239,500 (14)

2022 John Deere 6145R with 480/80R42 duals, 420/85R28 fronts, 20 speed AQ transmission, 640R loader with grapple, AutoTrac ready, 4200 processor with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, premium cab with suspension, premium lights with sunroof, heated rear window, Cold Start II, fuel heating, fuel tank bottom guard, 3 remotes, 1800 lbs. rear weights. Stock #85398 $202,500 (14)

2005 Case IH ATX4812 drill, 48-ft. wide, 12” spacing, rubber packer wheels, 1” tips, includes 3380 tow behind cart. Stock #83627 $26,000 (1)

#87613

60-ft. drill, 7.5” spacing, single shoot, 6 run double shoot system, single shoot air package for tow behind cart, All Run Blockage warning system. Stock #83118 $149,000 (1)

2014 Pillar 3450/DH6010 60-ft. width, 10” spacing, double shoot, AgTron Blockage - primary, Flexi-Coil cart, new disks. Stock #87613 $110,000 (12)

New Holland PS2070 60-ft. hoe drill, 10” spacing, PS 1060 cart, roughly 25,000 acres. Stock #86634 $55,000 (11)

2012 Case IH ATX400 58-ft., 12” spacing, single shoot hoe drill, 1” carbide points, 4” press wheels, Case IH 3430 430 bushel 3 tank variable rate cart SNYBS015143. Stock #86161 $44,500 (11)

2008 Bourgault 59-ft. drill, 12” spacing, 5.5” pneumatic press wheels, 2007 tow behind 6550ST 550 bushel 4-tank cart. Currently has 14” sweeps with 6” spreader boots set up for organic. Stock #88896 $45,000 (12)

1993 Flexi-Coil 5000 57-ft. single shoot, 12” spacing, primary blockge, capped press wheels with rock guards, 2320 tank. Stock #88105 $19,500 (12)

2004 Morris 6240 with 34-ft. drill, 7.5” spacing, single shoot, steel press wheels, 110 bushel cart, has monitor. Stock #89405 $10,000 (1)

1993 John Deere 455 25-ft. box drill with large box (fertilizer and grain), 7.50x15 double rib tires, depth gauging press wheels. Stock #89164 $17,500 (1)

2021 John Deere 6130R tractor with premium cab, 620R loader, bucket, grapple, 24 speed AutoQuad, MFWD with TLS, 3 electric SCV’s, 540/1000 PTO, 4200 display, front fenders, 460/85R38 rear tires, 340/85R28 front tires, rear wheel weights. Stock #88926 $170,000 (11

2022 John Deere 6130M with IVT 40K, triple link suspension, standard cab with Command Arm, premium radio package, 114 L/min hydrauylic pump, 3 SCVs, 540/1000 PTO, PTO remote control 540/65R24 front wheels, 600/65R38 rear wheels, cold start package, 620R loader with bucket and grapple. Stock #89316 $177,500 (2)

2014 Massey-Ferguson 6615 tractor, 135 EHP/110 PTO HP, Dyna VT transmission (IVT), MF 946 self leveling loader, 2 function joystick, no grapple, 8-ft. bucket, MFWD, air seat, rack and pinion rear axle, 18.4R38 rear tires 65%, 14.9R28 front tires 50%, 540/1000 RPM PTO, 3 SCVs, 3-point hitch. Stock #89227 $85,000 (16)

#89143

#86592

#88052

#89082

2018 John Deere 9520RX with 520/362 hp, 4WD, cab, 18/6 PowerShift, 30” DuraBuilt 6500 (with poly mid rollers), 5 SCVs, no 3-point, 1000 PTO, premium radio, premium CVIII cab with suspension, no ACS, Hi-Flo hydraulics, Cat 5 drawbar, electric mirrors, premium lighting, 4600 command center with activation, no SF6000. Stock #89082 $440,000

2017 John Deere 1890 no till drill, 60-ft with 7.5” spacing, 550 bushel 1910 tow behind hydraulic drive cart with section control, spoked gauge wheels, All Run Blockage, 12” conveyor with KSI hopper and wireless control, duals on cart, new disks just installed. Stock #82629 $267,500 (1)

John

60-ft.

spacing,

2011 John Deere 1890

The 604N/605N balers deliver the strength, productivity and operating convenience of Super M baler technology with the added capability and enhanced performance of features like the patented dual-stage belt-tightening system. From top to bottom, this baler is built to withstand tough conditions and high-capacity production — offering smooth, consistent performance to highvolume hay producers who want large 6 ft (1.8 m) diameter bales. An operator will recognize the heavy-duty components and several key features like 5-bar pickup, direct crop feed, optional netwrap system and high-strength upper/ lower drive rollers. It all results in reliable performance and increased efficiency.

The 604N/605N balers come equipped with 21.5L–16.1 flotation tires, a hydraulic bale ramp, a moisture sensor and an automatic pickup clutch. Packaged together these features help optimize performance for high-volume producers.

The 604N/605N balers look noticeably different, but what hasn’t changed is the smart design, machine durability and the reliable, user-friendly performance that have come to define Vermeer balers.

1 The optional pickup clutch automatically stops the pickup when the desired bale size is reached,lessening inadvertent overfill of the bale chamber to help protect the rollers, bearings and belts. Seals on either side of the pickup bushings help keep out dirt and dust. Toolless gauge wheel adjustment allows for efficient pickup height adjustments.

2 Direct Crop Feed enables the forage crop to be fed directly to the bottom drum and bale-starting chamber.

3 The E-Link Pro display offers enhanced usability, such as accessible bale weight and moisture readings on the home screen with standard moisture sensors and optional scale kit. Additionally, the E-Link Pro comes with the ability to keep track of information for up to 20 customers, with up to 10 fields per customer.

4

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FEEDING CLEARANCE SALE

Whether or not you have any allergies to foods, knowing how to recognize food allergies and how to plan for family or friends is critical.

Try these questions about food allergens and intolerances. The answers follow.

1. Lactose intolerance is not due to an allergic reaction. What food component within milk is difficult for people with lactose intolerance to digest?

a. Protein.

b. Carbohydrate.

c. Fat.

d. Mineral.

2. Where would you find information about food allergies within a food product?

a. Within or after the ingredient list.

b. Front of food package.

c. On the Nutrition Facts label.

d. Within the recipe suggestions on package.

3. Which is/are true of package statements that say “may contain (allergen)”? The package also may state “processed in a facility that also uses nuts.”

a. These are required by law.

B. These are not required by law.

c. These may be due to cross-contamination within a food processing plant.

d. These statements may be used as a substitute for good manufacturing processes.

4. How many foods have been identified to cause food allergies in sensitive individuals, according to the Food and Drug Administration?

a. 16

b. 96

c. 160

d. 250

5. Name the eight allergens currently required on food labels.

6. Bonus question: In January 2023, a new allergen will be added to food labels that contain this ingredient. What is the allergen?

How did you do? Here are the answers:

b. People with lactose intolerance have difficulty digesting milk sugar or lactose, which is a carbohydrate.

a. Look for “Contains (allergen)” right after the ingredient list or in parentheses after the food within the ingredient list. An example is “Lecithin (soy).”

b, c. “May contain” statements are not required. Sometimes the same equipment is used within food manufacturing plants for different foods and may result in cross-contamination.

c. 160 foods have been identified as allergenic.

Milk, tree nuts, eggs, peanuts, fish, wheat, shellfish and soybeans are the eight allergens currently required on food labels.

Sesame will be required to be listed on food labels beginning in January 2023.

For more information, search online for “NDSU Extension Allergens” to find resources on several of the major allergens. The handouts include “swaps” and recipes.

Have you ever tried tofu? Tofu is a protein-rich, soy-based food available in several consistencies from soft (silken) to extra firm

This dip was the hit of a hands-on food preparation class. The recipe from the North Dakota Soybean Council contains soy, of course, and milk allergens. We used lower-fat ingredients to reduce calories, but you can swap in the full-fat ingredients.

Soy and Spinach Artichoke Dip

1 pound silken tofu, crumbled

1 pound low-fat cream cheese, cubed

1 cup mayonnaise

½ teaspoon ground pepper

1 pound frozen chopped spinach, thawed, drained

1 (15-ounce) can artichoke hearts, drained, coarsely chopped

½ cup green onions, chopped

Parmesan cheese, grated, for garnish (optional)

Using a mixer, beat tofu until smooth. Mix in cream cheese, mayonnaise and pepper in a mixer bowl. Fold in spinach, artichokes and green onions. Spread mixture evenly in a 9- by 13-inch pan. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, if desired. Bake at 350 F for 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbly and browned on top. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers.

Makes 25 servings. Each serving has 70 calories, 3.5 grams (g) fat, 4 g protein, 6 g carbohydrate, 1 g fiber and 270 milligrams sodium.

New census shows alarming loss of family farms

New agriculture census data released by USDA today is cause for concern as the number of farms operating in the United States and the number of farm acres have both fallen significantly. The 2022 Census of Agriculture reports 141,733 fewer farms in 2022 than in 2017. The number of farm acres fell to 880,100,848, a loss of more than 20 million acres from just five years earlier.

“The latest census numbers put in black and white the warnings our members have been expressing for years,” said AFBF President Zippy Duvall. “Increased regulations, rising supply costs, lack of available labor and weather disasters have all squeezed farmers to the point that many of them find it impossible to remain economically sustainable.

“Family farms not only help drive the economy, they allow the rest of the nation the freedom to pursue their dreams without worrying about whether there will be enough food in their pantries. We urge Congress to heed the warning signs of these latest numbers. Passing a new farm bill that addresses these challenges is the best way to help create an environment that attracts new farmers and enables families to pass their farms to the next generation.”

While it’s encouraging that the number of beginning farmers increased, the latest census numbers show the number of farmers over the age of 65 is outpacing younger farmers. Almost 1.3 million farmers are now at or beyond retirement age, while just 300,000 farmers are under the age of 35. AFBF has long-established policies supporting beginning farmers, including through farm bill programs focused on new and beginning farmers.

Most toilet paper sold for home use in France is pink.

get your fence quotes in now for spring and summer openings! Trader’s Dispatch, March 2024 — Page A44

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Bouma Post Yards, Choteau MT A16

Bouma Truck Sales, Choteau, Great Falls MT INSERT

BTI Feeds, Cut Bank MT C1

C & B Operations, LLC, Billings, Culbertson & Plentywood, MT, Sheridan, WY, Powell, WY C16, C17

Cascade Machine & Supply, Great Falls MT. B29

Centrol Crop Consulting LLC, Brady & Conrad MT B33

Circle S Seeds of Montana, Three Forks MT C36

Clearview Seed, Denton MT A32

CoAXium, Aggressor, Ft. Collins CO C9

Cory Talk, Elk WA A34

Cut Bank Tire, Cut Bank MT A37

Dakota Truck & Farm, Minot ND A35

DBL Sales & Service, Coffee Creek MT A36, C12

Doane Western of Montana, Bozeman MT C30

Double D Land Services, Billings MT A44

Double Diamond Truck & Equipment Sales, Missoula MT C12

Dry Fork Ag, Ledger MT B11

Escrow Montana LLC, Whitefish MT B10

Fire Pro Extinguishers, Pavillion WY B10

First State Bank, Shelby, MT A34

Fisher Metal Products, Fort Benton, MT B32

Flaman Rentals, Power MT C5, C9

Floyd’s Truck Center, NE, WY, SD, MT C24

Fox Ford, Wolf Point MT A5

Fraser’s Oil Inc., Inverness MT C14

Frieling’s Agricultural Equipment, Great Falls MT A33, B13, B15, B27, C23, C34

Frontier Precision (formally Triangle Ag), Fort Benton MT C11

Frontline Ag Solutions Dillon, Dillon MT B5

Frontline Ag Solutions, Choteau, Conrad, Cut Bank, Dillon, Lewistown, Havre, Chester, Great Falls, Belgrade, Livingston MT A40, A41

Glass Trucking, Denton MT C11

Glasgow Rental, Glasgow MT B18

Golden Harvest Seeds, Big Sandy MT A28

Golden Triangle Rental, Great Falls MT B18

Golden Triangle Seeds, Rudyard MT B7

Gordon Repair, LLC, Miles City MT A42

Greenway Seeds, Caldwell ID A37, B33, C32, C33, C43

Greyn Fertilizer, Choteau, Dutton, Valier MT C27

Grossenburg Equipment, Winner, Pierre, Philip, Belle Fourche, Beresford SD, Wayne, Bloomfield, Hartington NE, Sundance WY C41

Hamilton Systems, Inc. Hamilton ND B34

Heartland Cabin Co., Moore MT B14

Heartland Seed Company, Moccasin MT A40

Hedman, Inc, Grass Range MT C21

Helfert’s Helena Farm Supply, East Helena MT A26

Henke Enterprises, SprayFlex & Big Dog Mowers, Chester MT C44

Hi-Line Rental, Havre MT B18

Highland Specialty Grain, Inc. (McKay Seed Co.), Moses Lake WA C28

Hotsy Wy-Mont, Great Falls & Billings MT A34

Hoven Equipment Co., Great Falls & Lewistown MT C37

Hwy 12 Equipment & Repair, Baker MT A42

J & T Equipment Sales, Stevensville MT C40

J Bar T Bins & Steel Buildings, Chester MT C32

Jim Nielsen Trucks & Parts, Butte MT B30

Johnsen Trailer Sales, Inc., Bismarck & Fargo ND B34

Krogmann Mfg. C20

Lakeland Feed & Supply, Dillon & Hamilton MT....C38

Lattin & Sons, Power MT C5, C9

Lee’s Trapworks, LTD, Swift Currant Canada C42

Lewistown Polaris, Lewistown MT B17

Lewistown Rental, Lewistown MT B18

M & M Auto, Trailers, & Welding, Stevensville MT...B22

M & W Machine, Three Forks MT B8

Mahindra, Beartooth Harley Davidson, Billings MT A14

Marks Lumber, Clancy MT B28

Meyers Yellowstone Appraisal, Missoula MT B6

Mineral Tub Lifter, Malta MT B20

Missouri River Realty, Glasgow, Malta, MT C29

Montana Department of Agriculture C18

Montana Fiberglass Inc, Lewistown MT B26

Montana Holster & Shoulder Rig, Great Falls MT.....B2

Montana Metal Fabrications, Great Falls MT B24

Montana Valley Irrigation, Great Falls MT A12

Montech Seed Group, MT B2

Mountain View Metal Works, Wilsall MT B1

MT Tractors, Matt Pendergast, Stevensville MT.....B30

Musselshell Valley Equipment, Roundup MT B17, C7

New Homes of the Future, Billings MT B8

North Star Equipment, Simms MT C25

Northern Ford, Cut Bank MT C15

Northern Prairie Auto Sales, Wolf Point MT C10

Open Range Windbreaks, Bartlett NE B29

Oxbow Engineering LLC, Randy Pierce PE Three

Forks MT C24

Pete’s Auto Sales, Great Falls MT B19

Platinum Auto Center, Big Timber MT A31

Post Creek Supply, Co., St. Ignatius, MT C4

Power Motors Implement, Fort Benton MT A2

Precision Truck & Trailer, Havre MT B31

Price Truck & Equipment Sales, Missoula MT B21

Quality Sales, Great Falls MT B7

R & L Seed & Machine LLC, Geyser MT A42

R & M Exterminators, Cheney WA C28

RDO Equipment, Kalispell, MT B22

RDO Equipment, Missoula MT B22

Redhead Equipment, Regina SK Canada C31

Rehbein Ford, Inc., Plains MT B25

Reinke, RPH Irrigation Services, Choteau MT B24

Riverside Marine & Cycle, Miles City MT B11

RMB Bins, Severinsen Irrigation, Fairfield MT C6

Rockwell Scales, Simms MT B12

Roger Rader, Inc, Sun River MT B34

Rowse Farm Equipment, Avon MT C26

RPH Irrigation Services, Reinke, Choteau MT B24

S & C Auto, Great Falls, MT C36

Safflower Technologies International, Fairview & Billings MT B15

Severinsen Irrigation, Zimmatic & RMB Bins, Fairfield MT C6, C18

Shobe Auction & United Country Realty, Lewistown MT C26

Sod Buster Sales, Polson MT A18, B28

South Dakota Trailer Co., Souix Falls, Waterton, Rapid City SD B26, C34

Spring Creek Industries, Taylor ND A8

Steel Etc, Great Falls MT C19

Stokes Fencing, Conrad MT C7

Sullivan Brothers Construction, Conrad MT C22

Sunrise Hoppers, Bow Island AB Canada B20

Swallows Irrigation, Kalispell MT C2

T & S Sales, Spokane WA B32, C22

T & T Farm Supply, LLC, Chester MT B21

Taylor Farm Store, Shelby MT C1

Taylor Transportation, Great Falls, MT B10

TCB Transport LLC, Geyser MT B6

The Gear House, Helena MT A4

Three Forks Lumber & Ready Mix, Three Forks MT A38

Tiber Tractor Co., Chester MT B9

Timberline Truck & Trailer, Missoula & Belgrade MT B24

Tom’s Shop, Grass Range MT C10

Treasure State Wood Boilers, LLC, Bigfork, MT B20

Treasure State Seed, Fairfield MT A39

Tri-County Implement, Sidney MT C35

Tri-State Truck & Equipment, Belgrade, Billings, Great Falls MT, Casper WY, Rock Springs WY A27

Triple T Sales, Chinook MT B35

TT&E Inc, Victor MT & Spearfish SD B16

Valley, Montana Valley Irrigation, Great Falls MT....A12

Vantage, Frontier Precision, Fort Benton MT C11

Vaughn Truck, Havre MT C38

VW Mfg, Chester MT B23

Weaver Grain Bins, Power MT C42

Wichman Ag Supply LLC, Hilger MT A42

Wild Horse Seed, Havre MT A35

Williams Ag Services, Circle MT B8

Yellowstone Country Motors, Livingston MT C30

Zimmatic, Severinsen Irrigation, Fairfield MT C18

Zimmerman Manure & Silage Hauling, Fairfield MT B4

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Research team to study interactions between wild

and domestic sheep

By Reagan Cotton, MSU News Service

A research team in the Montana State University College of Agriculture has received $4 million in new funding to help lay the groundwork for disease prevention and management of wild and domestic sheep around the state and region.

Assistant professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist Jared Beaver and MSU Extension Sheep Specialist Brent Roeder, both in MSU’s Department of Animal and Range Sciences, will lead a team in studying how often wild bighorn sheep and domestic sheep interact. The information they collect will help wildlife managers shape approaches for finding adaptive management strategies to allow both species to exist on Montana’s rangeland. It will also build on the body of knowledge to help understand how diseases spread among populations.

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“Being able to better predict when and where domestic and wild sheep are likely to interact will allow us to be more efficient with our time and resources,” said Beaver, whose research focuses on holistic wildlife management approaches. “It allows us to focus mitigation efforts in the highest-risk areas and potentially focus reintroduction in areas where transmission risk is very low.”

The funding, which will support at least five years of research, comes from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, which will also collaborate on the project. The work will help FWP implement its adaptive management plan for bighorn sheep, a species that has seen less population recovery than other reintroduced species such as elk, said Beaver.

Other collaborators include the Montana Wild Sheep Foundation, Montana Woolgrowers Association and numerous Montana sheep producers, Beaver said. Because the interaction of domestic and wild sheep can be difficult to track, bringing as many perspectives to the table as possible was a key goal of the project.

“This project has important implications for many Montanans, from lamb and wool producers to wildlife enthusiasts and the hunting community,” said Carl Yeoman, head of the Department of Animal and Range Sciences. “It will be especially valuable having all stakeholders at the table in a co-production research framework.”

Roeder, who has studied sheep production and wool quality in Montana for more than two decades, said the work will benefit from the many perspectives it considers.

“This is the first study to my knowledge that has brought this many agencies together on this topic,” he said. “It’s a current issue that’s impacting a lot of domestic producers around the state.”

A particular focus of the research will be Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, or M. Ovi, a bacteria that can cause respiratory infections that sometimes lead to pneumonia in sheep and goats. Generally, said Roeder, symptoms are mild in domestic herds, but the disease can be devastating to wild bighorn sheep herds.

Beaver said that if the research can identify trends in how frequently contact between wild and domestic sheep is happening — and where it occurs — then management plans and the reintroduction of bighorn sheep can be tailored to minimize risk.

Beaver noted previous research that showed a 14.5-kilometer buffer – roughly 9 miles – between wild and domestic herds was enough to greatly reduce transmission of M. Ovi. But allowing for that much space isn’t always feasible.

“Getting a better understanding of how contact is occurring and seeing if there are predictors for it means we can start to identify better tools than just a line on a map,” he said. “What a lot of other studies have lacked is that local and generational knowledge, so we wanted a study that properly evaluated co-mingling that also included all the stakeholders, where producers weren’t left out of those conversations.”

Wild animals are frequently fitted with radio collars so that scientists and wildlife managers can track migration patterns. For this new project, Beaver said collar data from bighorn sheep will be instrumental in identifying where interaction is most frequent or most likely.

The team will work with sheep producers in higher-traffic areas on strategies for preventing contact between domestic and wild sheep. Those strategies could include using livestock guard dogs or sheepherders and rotating pasture land seasonally based on bighorn migration, said Roeder, with continued research into which strategies are most effective.

“The issue of respiratory disease in bighorn sheep has been

Research team to study

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B2

the subject of a huge amount of work across the western U.S. and Canada for decades,” said Emily Almberg, a wildlife disease ecologist for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks and a member of the collaborative research team. “Approaches to this issue fall into two broad categories, one aimed at improving the performance of chronically infected herds and the other aimed at finding ways to minimize new contact events that can be devastating to bighorn populations. Our work falls in this latter category and has the potential to yield wins for both bighorn and domestic sheep health.”

The hope for the MSU team is that the project can generate new ideas for management and care that benefit the state’s producers, land and wildlife managers, and the domestic and wild sheep themselves.

“This has been several years in the making,” said Beaver. “It’s not just an ecological or biological question. There are social and cultural components to it, which makes it very dynamic. That’s why we wanted a project built from the ground up that involved MSU and FWP, but also producers and landowners, because we will not capture a full picture without that diverse participation.”

Festival of Smoke & Mirrors Day

This holiday is always celebrated on March 29

Don’t be deceived. This holiday is a day of deception and illusions. The term “smoke and mirrors” means something is not really as it appears to be. It’s a deception or something that does not even exist. A magician will often make something appear or disappear out of thin air. People often put up smoke and mirrors to hide something.

Many of us will use any excuse to have a party or festival, so why not hold a Festival of Smoke and Mirrors?

How to Participate in the Festival of Smoke and Mirrors Day

• Learn some magic tricks of deception

• Attend a magic show

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2002 Case 960 trencher, front backhoe, 6-way blade, 84” boom with 90 percent rock tooth chain, 3.9 Cummins diesel, only 1100 total hours, very clean,(cable plow available) Call

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2001 John Deere 444H loader, quick attach, auxillary 3rd valve hydraulics, full cab, new Grabtec grapple Call

2011 Ford F550 crewcab, 4x4 flatbed/service truck, V10 gas, automatic, 12-ft. bed, lumber rack, tool boxes, very clean Southern California truck Call

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Pesticide safety certification training for private applicators in 2024

By Jennifer Weisbrod –

Pesticide Safety Education Program Coordinator, Extension Educator Producers who need to acquire or renew a private pesticide applicator license will have a number of options in 2024. To certify for a new license or recertify an existing one, the following options are available: (1) Attend a face-to-face training session, (2) complete an online self-study program, or (3) pass a private applicator exam administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). In addition, private licenses can be recertified by attending a Crop Production Clinic.

After completing one of the above options and paying a licensing fee to NDA, a three-year license is issued.

Dates, locations and registration information for 2024 face-to-face training sessions are listed online. Please note that additional training sessions may be added to this list as time goes forward.

Background

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies pesticide products as restricted-use pesticides (RUP) if they pose an increased risk to human health or the environment. To purchase and use RUPs, one must be certified/licensed by the state where they will be using the products. Nebraska Extension provides the pesticide safety training required to become certified/ licensed. In Nebraska, applicator licenses last three years and must then be renewed.

A private applicator license allows a person to apply RUPs to property owned or rented by them for the purpose of producing agricultural commodities. It also allows them to apply RUPs to the property of another producer on their behalf, as long as there is no compensation other than trading of personal services.

Important Changes

Both new and recertifying applicators need to be aware of changes to Nebraska’s applicator certification/licensing program:

The minimum age to be a certified applicator is now 18 years.

New and recertifying applicators should be prepared to present government-issued identification (e.g., a driver’s license) at training.

The appearance of private applicator licenses will be updated. They will now be a tan color and will be printed with “General Agriculture” and “00” on them to denote “standard” private certification.

Private applicators who wish to use RUP fumigants in their operation will need “standard” private applicator certification AND a fumigation certification. To use soil

fumigants, an applicator must pass NDA’s Soil Fumigation exam; if this certification is obtained, it will appear on the license as “01A.” To use fumigants for grain bins or rodent burrows, an applicator must pass NDA’s Non-Soil and Structural Fumigation exam; if this certification is obtained, it will appear on the license as “11.” The Pesticide Safety Education Office recommends preparing for these exams with its study manuals. Hard-copy manuals and their enhanced digital versions (“FlipBooks”) can be ordered online.

Private applicators who wish to apply RUPs aerially will need to acquire a commercial/noncommercial applicator license with the Aerial Pest Control category.

These changes are being phased in over a three-year period (2022-24) as applicators come up for recertification. For example, a private applicator whose license expires in 2024 can continue applying fumigants without a fumigation certification until he/ she recertifies in 2024. For questions on these changes, please call the NDA at 402471-2351 or the Pesticide Safety Education Office at 402-472-1632.

Not Sure Where to Start?

This online tool can help you determine if you need a license, which type of license you need, and how you can get it.

Other Pesticide Training You May Need

Chemigation is the practice of applying agrichemicals (including pesticides) to cropland through an irrigation system. In Nebraska, this practice requires training and certification every four years.

XtendiMax®, Engenia® and Tavium® are RUPs containing dicamba that can only be used on dicamba-tolerant soybean and cotton crops. In addition to requiring a pesticide applicator license, you must also take yearly dicamba-specific training before purchasing or applying any of these three herbicides. The products’ registrants (Bayer, BASF and Syngenta, respectively) will provide this training. For more information on RUP dicamba, please visit the NDA’s website.

Paraquat is an herbicide that is acutely toxic to humans; all products containing paraquat are RUPs. In addition to requiring a pesticide applicator license, you must take paraquat-specific training (every three years) to purchase or apply paraquat products. This paraquat training is available for free on the Extension Foundation Online Campus, and can be completed at any time.

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hydraulic rake. Stock #88660. $19,500

2017 New Holland 216 hydraulic V-rake. Stock #88659. $19,500

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Montana MIWW state contest and national event

The Montana Make It With Wool contest was held recently on December 1-2, 2023 at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center in Billings, Montana, in conjunction with the 140th Annual Montana Woolgrowers Convention.

There were 8 sewists competing in three categories this year - Junior, Senior, and Adult. The Junior category for those ages 13 to 16 as of January 1st of the contest year had one very worthy contestant in Waverly Konen of Fairfield. The Senior Division for those ages 17 to 24 was made up of three contestants, namely Rose Baeten of Billings, Kiara Sherman of Ronan, and Angelina Toth of Havre. Our largest category this year with four contestants was the Adults for those 25 years of age and older –Briana Baeten of Billings, Christine Keltner of Ismay, Jasmine Powell of Chinook, and Michal Ann Stedje of Ronan.

After several hours of modeling and construction judging, Jan Alexander of Miles City, Loribeth Evertz of Bozeman, and Kelsi Gambill of Billings, came away with the final placings. Winners and awards were announced during the Woolgrowers’ banquet on Saturday night which featured the MIWW Style Show presented to the theme of “Suds in ‘EWE’ Bucket”

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First place finishers at the Montana MIWW contest were Junior – Waverly Konen, Senior – Kiara Sherman, and Adult – Briana Baeten. Briana also received the Montana MIWW Exemplary Construction Award and received a set of Gingher scissors for her efforts.

Montana MIWW also had 3 PreTeen contestants this year – lots of up and coming talent with Annika Konen of Fairfield, Karity Choat of Terry, and Oaklee Huft of Miles City.

There was some interest in the Quilt, Appliqué Project, and Afghan contest this year. Dana Holzer of Helena constructed a wool throw and Jasmine Powell of Chinook crocheted a wool afghan. Dana’s throw was inspired from a Guatemalan weaving which is sewn down the length of the lap quilt. The strips of wool are from Pendleton blazers, wool trousers, sport coats and skirts. Dana wanted to add a soft contrast of black, so she added velvet and fun pom pom fringe. Dana will enjoy her throw on those cool evenings this winter. Jasmine’s afghan is crocheted with 100% Plymouth Galway wool yarn. Chosen colors are Lapis, Thistle, Bleach and Glacier Grey. She used a black tapestry wool for the sheep face, legs, tail and ears. Jasmine calls her afghan “Sheep in the Textured Meadow”. She taught herself how to crochet about 5 years ago from watching You tube videos. She does a lot of trial and error, but it looks like she is getting the hang of it with this beautiful afghan. Waverly and Kiara represented Montana to the theme of “Make It With Wool in the Mile High City! ” during the 76th annual National Make It With Wool competition as part of the 2024 American Sheep Industry (ASI) Convention held January 11-13, 2024, at the Sheraton Downtown Hotel in Denver, Colorado. Briana competed in the National contest by mailing in her garment along with a video and photos. In the National MIWW contest there were 22 Junior contestants, 20 Senior contestants, and 19 Adult contestants representing 25 states.

Junior contestant, Waverly Konen constructed a practical and playful 100% wool jumper which fits her life approach perfectly … “Be serious, but have fun doing it!” Waverly was serious when it came to cutting, top stitching, and making a lining template

since the pattern did not come with one. The fun came when she got to use a hammer to adhere the buckles. And she says that is only the beginning of the fun – now that she has a soft versatile jumper to wear, she looks forward to seeing all the fun combos that she can create. Waverly learned several new skills this year and loves her one-of-akind playfully, serious wool dress.

Kiara Sherman constructed a two-piece wool garment including a red Melton wool coat and a beautiful white fit and flare dress for her 2023 Senior category entry. A red coat has been on Kiara’s sewing wish list for several years so she decided to tackle that project this year. The coat features top-stitched princess seams and an open vent in the back. The special touches Kiara added are white roses embellished with gold beading both on the pocket flaps and the back band. Her gold accents filter over to her dress with a hand beaded design on the collar. Kiara’s dress has full gathered sleeves and yoke of a lighter weight white wool than the body of the dress. This ensemble is ready for any special occasion. Kiara is 19 years old and keeps busy as a sophomore at MSU Billings where she is majoring in accounting.

Montana’s Adult winner, Briana Baeten constructed a two-piece female version of Sherlock Holmes with a small plaid for the vest and large plaid for the skirt in gray and brown tones. Briana’s 1890’s tailored vest and walking skirt patterns included tailoring with hair canvas and lots of hand stitching and pattern matching. Briana used a 1925 Singer treadle sewing machine to construct her outfit. Briana enjoys working with wool and loves her dream outfit.

Montana’s contestants had a memorable time in Denver taking in the Western Stock Show and vendor area in the -21 degree wind chill weather. Just a note – the train service doesn’t work well in that kind of cold weather as we had to Uber back to the Hotel – lots of memories were made and Denver’s National MIWW event will be talked about for a few years as we venture to hopefully warmer temperatures in the future. The National contestants also took in some workshops including learning how to test their wool fabrics for content, wet felting, and a lecture on sewing techniques.

When the judging results came in, Kiara placed 3rd in the Creative Machine Embroidery category. Kiara also won the Senior division Social Media Award. The Social Media awards were new this year with winners being determined by the number of likes they received on their pictures posted on the National MIWW Facebook page. Congratulations Kiara on a job well done representing Montana. Waverly did not place in the top 10 Junior group, but enjoyed her experience, met new friends, and is excited to sew again next year. Briana did not place in the top 7 Adult placings, but is planning for next year’s entry.

Madi Dunning of Wyoming won the Junior Division, Katie Buhler of Kansas won the Senior Division, and Rachel Siegel of Pennsylvania won the Adult Division. The Apparel and Design winner was Megan Darling from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Pictures of the National winners can be seen on the National MIWW website and Facebook page.

CONTINUED ON PAGE B8

An unfamiliar face

There’s part of your brain that processes faces. It’s located, according to MIT scientist Nancy Kanwisher, in the area “Just behind and underneath, and a bit from your right ear.” It’s called the fusiform gyrus, (The gyrus is a ridge in the brain, and fusiform describes its shape–elongated and tapered at both ends.) Whenever you see someone you know, the fusiform gyrus tells you, “That’s Bob.” It also sends out messages to other parts of the body that add emotions to the information, such as “I like Bob. He’s my friend.” But what happens when an accident, illness, or hereditary gene disconnects the wiring between the fusiform gyrus and other parts of the brain?

There are people who may see a particular person’s face every day of their lives and still not recognize it. They see a nose, teeth, and cheeks, but when the features are put together, they cannot retain a memory of it. The medical term for this condition is prosopagnosia (from the Greek prosopon, for “face,” and agnosia, for “ignorance”), but it’s more commonly called face blindness. Researchers say that as many as 1 in 50 people suffer from some form of the condition.

Jane Goodall, the world’s foremost expert on chimpanzees, has it. Probably the bestknown sufferer of prosopagnosia is the neurologist and psychiatrist Dr. Oliver Sacks, renowned author of the best-selling books The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat and Awakenings, which was made into the 1990 Oscar-nominated film starring Robin Williams. A lifelong sufferer of extreme face blindness, Sacks has said that his condition is so severe he often doesn’t recognize his own face.

Sufferers of face blindness must develop alternate ways of identifying coworkers, friends, and family, so they remember single features–a mole, a specific style of clothing, or an extra toothy smile. Says Jan Goodall, “I usually make up for it by pretending to recognize everybody. And then, if they say, ‘But we haven’t met before,’ I say, “Well, you look just like somebody I know.’”

#####

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Montana MIWW state contest and national event

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B6

Made for Other entrants. There was a total of 1,086 yards of wool fabric and 192 skeins of wool yarn used to construct the MIWW garment entries for the 2023 year. Montana is holding steady at 9th in the ranking of 27 states for participation numbers in 2023.

For more information on the Make It With Wool program, please visit and like our Montana Make It With Wool facebook page, Montana Wool Growers Association facebook page or website at mtsheep.org. or email Montana MIWW Director Amanda Powell at adpowell11@hotmail.com

Winners, left to right, Jasmine Powell – 1st Place Afghan; Waverly Konen – 1st Place Junior; Kiara Sherman – 1st Place Senior; Briana Baeten – 1st Place Adult and Exemplary Construction Award

Adult group – Christine Keltner – 3rd; Jasmine Powell – 2nd; Briana Baeten – 1st; and Michal Ann Stedje – 4th

Group picture, left to right, Junior – Waverly Konen; Senior – Angelina Toth – 2nd; Rose Baeten – 3rd; and Kiara Sherman – 1st

Frost seeding or interseeding legumes

By Jerry Volesky, UNL

Are you looking to increase production from pastures or hay fields? Frost seeding or interseeding legumes might just work in your operation.

Nitrogen is one of the key ingredients for productive pastures. A way to get more nitrogen in a pasture is to plant legumes. Alfalfa, clovers, birdsfoot trefoil, and other legumes all fix atmospheric nitrogen and can reduce nitrogen costs. These legumes are also very high in forage quality.

Not all pastures are good candidates for adding legumes, however. First, legumes need adequate phosphorus and a pH usually above 6 while some prefer a pH closer to 7. Frost seeding is a method where legume seed is simply broadcast in winter to allow the natural freezing and thawing of the ground to plant the seed for you. Because frost seeding requires seed to be close to the soil surface after broadcasting, snow-free or very little snow is preferred. Frost seeding success can vary and while frost seeding is easier to do, drilling is almost always a better option if the pasture conditions allow it. Interseeding with a no-till drill better ensures seed placement and seed to soil contact.

Lastly, heavy flash grazing several times in the spring will reduce the competition from existing grasses and help establishment of legume seedlings. Once the grass is 3 to 4 inches taller than the seedlings, graze quickly until the grass is grazed down to the height of the legume seedlings.

Legumes can help reduce fertilizer cost and create higher quality pastures and hay. Frost seeding or no-till drill interseeding are two approaches that might work to establish legumes in your operation.

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Updates on dicamba products (Engenia, Tavium and XtendiMax) applied in dicamba-tolerant soybean in Nebraska

By Chabella Guzman - Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center Communications Specialist

Soybean growers in Nebraska and across the U.S. have recently been navigating the complexities of weed management in dicamba-tolerant soybeans as a federal court in Arizona vacated registration of XtendiMax, Engenia and Tavium on Feb. 6, 2024. The U.S. EPA notice, dated Feb. 14, 2024, addresses the existing stocks of preciously listed dicamba products following a court order vacating their registrations. It clarifies that, as of Feb. 6, 2024, selling or distributing XtendiMax, Engenia and Tavium is unlawful under FIFRA, except under U.S. EPAauthorized conditions. The order allows for the limited sale and distribution of existing stocks by persons other than the registrants, under specific conditions, until certain dates for proper disposal, lawful export, or return to the manufacturer. Additionally, the use of existing stocks must adhere to previously approved labeling, with specified cut-off dates for usage, to ensure environmental protection and compliance. More information is available here.

Depending on inventory and when purchases have been made, some growers may still benefit from the products they have purchased. This provision introduces flexibility, ensuring that not all growers will meet the same level of impact and may still utilize dicamba for broadleaf weed management.

The ruling will put some growers of soybeans, Nebraska’s second-largest crop, at a management challenge, recognizing that not all acres of dicamba-tolerant soybeans will be equally affected. This nuanced situation reflects the U.S. EPA’s provision allowing the use of existing dicamba stocks under specific conditions, meaning that the impact of the ruling will vary depending on a grower’s current inventory and the timing of purchases.

For Nebraska, the specific regulations regarding the sale, distribution and use of dicamba products such as XtendiMax, Engenia and Tavium are clearly outlined with Friday, May 31 as the deadline for sale or distribution, and Sunday, June 30 as the deadline for their field use in 2024. It is important to note that these dates apply specifically to Nebraska, and regulations may vary by state. For comprehensive information on the regulations in other states, refer to the U.S. EPA website or the document titled “Existing Stocks Order for Dicamba Products Previ-

ously Registered for Over-the-Top Use on Dicamba-Tolerant Cotton and Soybean” is recommended.

What implications does this hold for soybean producers in Nebraska? The EPA answer provided some certainty for the 2024 growing season.

Making big changes this late in the game represents significant challenges. Affected growers can try to find other soybean seeds, but available quantities may be limited. For affected growers, depending on a grower’s current inventory and the timing of purchases, it will put pressure on limited alternative post-emergence herbicide options.

One viable option is implementing a preemergence herbicide program with extended residual activity multiple modes of action. Such a program would effectively decrease weed pressure, facilitating suitable terrain for a follow-up post-emergence herbicide application.

Certain residual herbicides are labeled in soybean that can be applied after soybean emergence in all type of soybean traits. Most of them do not have a foliar activity; however, they provide overlapping residual activity. If weeds are present at the time of application, mixing with a post-emergence, foliar active herbicide is required. Consider soybean growth stage when using residual herbicides applied post-emergence.

When considering follow-up applications, it is crucial to ensure timely and precise execution, targeting small weeds (two to three inches) and utilizing increased spray volume (at least 20 gallons per acre), especially if glufosinate-based herbicides are used (e.g., Liberty/Interline/Cheetah). Reliance for affected growers may shift towards contacttype products based on glufosinate (essential to ensure the presence of the glufosinate-trait [LibertyLink] listed on the seed bag) or one of the PPO-inhibiting herbicides (acifluorfen, fomesafen, lactofen or others classified under WSSA Group 14) for broadleaf weed control.

If a grower is unsure of a program selection, they can refer to the 2024 Guide for Weed, Disease, and Insect Management in Nebraska (EC-130). Growers are also encouraged to contact their local University of Nebraska research and extension specialist for options and help in building alternative weed management plans.

Dr. Katie Rein of Crazy Mountain Veterinary Service of Harlowton, MT, did the Calving 101 with Simulator seminar at the 2024 MATE in Billings, MT. The girl pulling the calf is Teagan Peterson of Big Timber, MT

Updated Crop Compare program for 2024

By Ron Haugen, NDSU

North Dakota State University Extension has updated the Crop Compare program, which is a spreadsheet designed to compare cropping alternatives.

The Crop Compare program is available online at ndsu.ag/cropcompare.

The program uses the direct costs and yields from the 2024 projected crop budgets for nine regions of North Dakota, but producers are encouraged to enter the expected yields and input costs for their farm.

The user designates a reference crop and enters its expected market price. Depending on the region, a broad selection of nine to 18 crops are compared. The program provides the prices for competing crops that would be necessary to provide the same return over variable costs as the reference crop.

“Producers can compare these “break-even” prices to expected market prices to see which crop is most likely to compete with the reference crop,” says Ron Haugen, NDSU Extension farm management specialist. “Grain prices can move quickly. The program provides a tool for producers to check the changing scenarios until final planting decisions are made this spring.”

The program includes an underlying assumption that fixed costs, such as machinery ownership, land, and the owner’s labor and management, do not vary among crop choices and therefore do not need to be included in the analysis.

Haugen adds, “In practice, there may be differences in fixed costs that should be considered. For example, there may be additional labor, management and risk associated with a competing crop.”

##### Lilly bursts into the house from the garden and tells her mom out of breath: “Mom, mom, I accidentally knocked over the big ladder that was leaning against the tree!” Mother says, “Well go get daddy, he’ll help you put it back.” Lilly hops on the spot, “But I can’t, he’s still holding on to the branch!”

#####

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Despite mild winter, spring may bring forage challenges

NDSU Extension specialist James Rogers advises ranchers to consider whether winter feed supplies are enough to stretch into spring in case of delayed turnout. (NDSU photo)

NDSU Extension specialist James Rogers advises ranchers to consider whether winter feed supplies are enough to stretch into spring in case of delayed turnout. (NDSU photo)

This year’s warmer and drier winter conditions have created certain benefits for ranchers, such as easier winter feeding and simpler maintenance of water supplies. A major benefit of milder conditions is that cold weather stressors on the cow herd are lower, making it easier to meet cattle nutrient requirements.

As helpful as this mild weather has been, there are potential concerns ranchers should be aware of and be prepared for this spring, according to North Dakota State University Extension forage crops production specialist James Rogers.

“The Northern Plains is a fragile environment subject to extreme heat, cold and limited rainfall,” Rogers says. “When these extremes occur, it can create instability in the system with long recovery periods. Looking at the forecast weather model from the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, the El Nino effect of warmer, drier weather is predicted to continue to the spring.”

Forecast models are predicting continued above-normal temperatures with equal chances of above- or below-normal precipitation. In 2023, precipitation varied across North Dakota from below normal in the northern tier of the state to normal or above normal in the southern portion of the state. If the weather forecast models hold true, the implications for spring can mean one thing for the crop farmer and another for the rancher.

For the crop farmer, above-normal temperatures could mean earlier planting conditions compared to previous years. Potential downsides include early weed emergence and the uncertainty of receiving the precipitation necessary to get crops up and going.

For the rancher, a few more variables can

cloud the picture. The first is how pasture and range plants were managed prior to the end of the grazing season. Fall is a time when pasture and range plants are storing energy for spring growth. The basis for forage production is tiller production and growth. If tiller production is reduced, forage production will be lowered.

An NDSU study evaluated the effect of the intensity of fall grazing on forage production the following year. They found that severe fall use reduced forage production by 57% in 2022 and 54% in 2023.

“Severe fall use of pasture and range plants has a negative effect on energy storage, bud formation and tiller production, which results in reduced forage production the following year,” Rogers says.

The second variable is unknown: What will spring conditions truly be? If temperatures continue to remain above normal, pasture and range plants will begin coming out of dormancy early. If precipitation remains below normal, biomass production could be delayed, meaning that spring turnout could also be delayed. On the other hand, spring could arrive late with late winter storms wreaking havoc on ranchers and livestock, as in the springs of 2021 and 2022. Rogers advises ranchers to be prepared for either situation and consider whether winter feed supplies are enough to stretch into spring.

The third variable is cow herd health and condition from now through spring. Calving season is underway and monitoring calf health, cow condition, herd bull health and management are all critical from now until the end of breeding season. Management now impacts rebreeding later.

“Current weather conditions are unusual for North Dakota, but take into consideration all variables, including previous months’ weather conditions, past grazing management, current weather and future weather predictions, and use them to be prepared for whatever the Dakotas throw at you,” Rogers advises.

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Winners of NILE Merit Heifer and South Devon Youth Experience Program

By Kari Lewis, MSU

Two Glacier County 4-H beef members, Janae Roberts and Peyton Volkman, have both recently been named winners of the NILE Merit Heifer and South Devon Youth Experience programs, respectively.

The NILE Merit heifer program was developed nearly 20 years ago as a means to help youth get started in the cattle business. 4-H and FFA members ages 12 to 16 can apply and are awarded a heifer based on their merit, future goals, and ability to care for the animal. Project participants own their heifer jointly with NILE (Northern International Livestock Exposition) until the completion of the program at which point the youth takes full ownership of the heifer. For Janae Roberts, the program was an opportunity to potentially improve the genetics of her own herd, and a means to improve her public speaking skills and meet new people.

To apply, Janae submitted an application which included her goals, two pages on herself and ability to care for the heifer, three references, and three recommendation letters. “The application was kind of hard. I ran out of room to say all that I wanted, and it was challenging to say it just right,” Janae shared. In addition, she had to submit a video detailing her aspirations, facilities, etc. After submitting the application in June, it was a waiting process until mid-October when the 25 recipients were announced, including Janae! The program garners regional interest and recipients represent Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Wyoming, and Nebraska.

Janae’s heifer was donated by the 3C Cattle Company LLC of Stevensville, MT. In November, Janae had the incredible opportunity to get her pick of the fifty plus head of Registered Angus replacement heifers from Chad and Lacey Sutherlin. “I looked at the heifers one by one and sorted off about ten I liked. I then sorted it down to three and picked my heifer who seemed to be the medium of perfect,” Janae said. She said she was looking for structural correctness, a deep body, and a wide based heifer.

Since bringing ‘Besty’ home, Janae has been busy feeding her and halter breaking her for show. In addition, she along with the other Merit Heifer participants participate in monthly Zoom calls to learn more about caring for their heifer. So far, they’ve covered nutrition and the digestive system. In addition, she submits monthly reports detailing her heifer’s feed, costs, pictures

Extension – Glacier County and also answers questions that will go into her overall herdsmanship award at the NILE show this October in Billings. She credits her family, Chris, Lacy, Emily, and Aiden Roberts for their help with her heifer and reporting as well.

Janae plans to have her heifer AI bred this June and will show her as much as possible including at the Marias Fair this summer. Long term, she hopes to keep her calves as replacement heifers and either sell the bull calves to other ranchers or use for 4-H steers.

“If you’re thinking of applying, apply early and talk about how well you can care for the heifer, why you are qualified, and your goals,” Janae said. While Janae is just an 8th grader, this heifer will provide a strong foundation for growing her own herd to help her reach her personal goals of ranching and possibly teaching in the future. Janae will continue to care for her heifer and in October, will show her at the NILE Merit Heifer show in Billings, MT against the other recipients. Janae joins a long list of Glacier County 4-Hers who have been NILE Merit heifer winners, including Wyatt Berkram, Coalter Littrell, JR Seewald, Mat Tuma, Christie (Tuma) Curtiss, and Karly (Tuma) Sheffield.

In November, Peyton Volkman approached Glacier County agent, Kari Lewis, to inquire about the NILE Merit heifer program as well. Applications wouldn’t open again until June 2024, but Kari had just learned of the South Devon Association NASDA Youth Experience program from Andy Van Haur. The program awards a replacement heifer calf to a deserving youth between the ages of 14 to 20 at the National Western Stock Show. “I looked into the breed, what they’d need to live a good life and I thought they’d fit well here. I was interested in the breed,” Petyon said.

Peyton completed an application detailing his skills, ability and desire to raise, care for, and learn about the breed. He shared his goals and experiences in the 4-H market beef project thus far. He also submitted two letters of recommendation as to his character and ability to care for the heifer.

“Since I found out late about the application, it was a bit rushed, but I had great recommendation letters and thought I had a decent shot,” Peyton shared of his expectations. Peyton said he’d received a call right before Christmas with the good news he had been selected the winner!

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Janae Roberts was selected as one of 25 NILE Merit heifer recipients in October, receiving a heifer from the 3C Cattle Company of Stevensville, Montana. Janae will care for ‘Betsy’, provide monthly reports, show her at the NILE in Billings in October and then will have complete ownership of the heifer. Photo by Lacy Roberts.

Frankenfoods

Farmers have been creating new kinds of plants for hundreds of years. In the past, they used an old-fashioned method: cross-pollination. That means they mixed the pollen of similar plants to create a hybrid, a new kind of plant. Scientists now breed plants by manipulating their genes to produce a genetically modified organism, or GMO. And they don’t just cross one plant with another: they mix plant genes with animal genes. So scientists creating “transgenic” plants may be more like Dr. Frankenstein than Old MacDonald.

Here are a few examples of the “plants” they’ve already made, or have tried to create:

• Tomatoes that have genes from an Arctic flounder to make them resistant to frost.

• Corn crossed with genes from a bacterium to make it poisonous to insects.

• Apples with a gene taken from a moth to make the apple tree resistant to fire blight (a disease that destroys millions of dollars’ worth of apples worldwide every year).

• Smart crops with a firefly gene that makes them glow when they need water.

In nature, transfer of genes happens only between closely related species. In a genetically engineered world–according to critics–nature as we know it might cease to exist.

How color vision works

The cones in our eyes allow us to see in color. Here’s how color vision works:

• Seeing means seeing light that is reflected off objects. That light enters our eyeballs, goes through the lenses, and hits the retinas. There it affects specialized cells call photoreceptors, which send neural signals to the brain’s visual center.

• There are two main types of photoreceptors in the retina: rods and cones (so called because of their shape). Rods detect different amounts of light (bright to dark), and cones detect different wavelengths of light–meaning different colors.

• Humans have three types of cone cells, which give us trichromatic (three-color) vision. One type of cone cell responds to short-wavelength light (the blue part of the spectrum), another to medium-wavelength light (the green part), and the third to long-wavelength light (the reds).

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Winners of NILE Merit Heifer and South Devon Youth Experience Program

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B14

He noted, “I was really excited. I was pretty stoked to hear I won!” He also had a chance to visit with the Minnesota board member who shared the news with him.

In January, Peyton was publicly announced as the winner at the National Western Stock Show in Denver and his heifer (donated by the C/N Ranch of Big Timber, MT) received a ride back to the north country from Andy Van Haur of Valier. She is a ‘Poundmaker’ which is half South Devon and is red with a white face.

“I like a good, solid beef cow,” Peyton said. He plans to have his heifer A.I.ed this spring with hopes of raising a replacement heifer or 4-H steer for the Marias Fair and adding her to his growing herd of cows. Peyton has been active in the Market Beef project bringing a Pen of Three to the fair the past two years and receiving the Steer of Merit distinction for his steer’s carcass quality twice. However, he’s excited to learn more about the production side through the beef breeding project.

Peyton encourages other 4-Hers to apply for the program and similar opportunities. “I learned that even if you don’t think you have a chance, go ahead and do it. Don’t hold back. It’s a great experience and even if you don’t get it, it’s a way to meet some really great people too.”

Peyton believes the South Devon breed will be a good fit for the area and is excited to have the opportunity to grow his herd before he heads off to welding school in a couple years. Currently a sophomore at Cut Bank High School, Peyton plans to return home to run the family farm and ranch.

In addition to caring for their heifers, both Janae and Peyton are extremely active in 4-H and school. Janae, 14, participates in beef breeding, cooking, market beef, photography, teen leadership, and archery projects in 4-H in addition to FFA, FCCLA, and volleyball at Sunburst Schools. Peyton, 15, participates in football, wrestling, Babe Ruth baseball and 4-H market beef, beef breeding, and archery projects.

No doubt the NILE Merit Heifer program and South Devon Association Youth Experience program will help provide both youth a strong foundation for their futures learning about the beef industry and growing their herd. The generosity of the 3C Cattle Company and C/N Ranch to provide heifers, and caring adults willing to write recommendation letters, provide transportation, teach, serve as references or proofreaders, etc. reiterate the kindness of the 4-H and agricultural community to provide hardworking, motivated youth with a positive head start.

In January, Peyton Volkman was publicly announced as the winner of the South Devon Youth Experience program at the National Western Stock Show in Denver. His heifer (donated by the C/N Ranchg of Big Timber, Montana) is his to keep and build his herd with. Photo by Fred Volkman.

The deadline for advertising for the April 2024 issue of the Trader's Dispatch will be March 27th.

Jane Wolery of Sterling Solutions shared, “Building your Brain for Business’ which helped participants see how to change their mindset positively. Photo by Kari Lewis.

Patently weird:

Initiation Apparatus, 1906

Before fraternities relied heavily on alcohol to enhance the initiation process, this electric shock treatment helped spark the fun. The apparatus, described as “entirely harmless in its action and results,” was specifically “designed for use in lodges and secret societies.” Two metal rails about an inch wide are laid down as tracks and hooked up to a battery or generator. The victim–pledge or inductee–then walks down the track wearing a pair of shoes with metallic soles, heels, and interior contact plates. Every time the subject takes a step, the electric circuit is opened and closed, continuously shocking whoever dons the metal slippers.

#####

Somebody stole all my lamps. I couldn’t be more delighted.

#####

How come there’s so much month left at the end of the money?

Shelby farmer, Brad Tomsheck, took a minute to visit with Renae Manley of KW Insurance at Montana’s Next Generation conference. KW Insurance was one of the conference Diamond sponsors. Photo by Kari Lewis.

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Five initial steps to consider before building a meat processing facility

By Christina Bakker, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Meat Science Specialist and Amanda Blair

The need for more small meat processing capacity and skilled workers is not a new problem facing rural America, but the COVID-19 pandemic has caused an uptick in those interested in building small meat processing facilities. This interest can be related to a variety of motives: livestock producers with an interest in gaining more control over their end products, processors looking to expand their existing business or change inspection status, or an entrepreneur who has never been involved in agriculture looking to start their own business venture. No matter the reason for wanting to build, here are some steps to consider before diving in.

Step 1. Write a business plan.

To no surprise, the first step in building any business is to clearly identify what that business’ goals and structure will be. The SD Small Business Development Center can help with writing your business plan, a non-exhaustive list of factors to consider include:

Location

Will you build in town our outside of a town?

Does your location have easy access to utilities?

What are the zoning requirements of your location?

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Is there room to unload and hold animals and to handle offal that is away from customer entrances?

Requirements and Resources.

Labor

Will you be a hands-on manager or hire someone else to manage the daily operations?

Where will your labor come from?

How will your labor force be trained?

Customers

Who will your customer base be?

What types of products do your potential customers want?

Are you trying to enter a niche market?

Capital needs

Are you building new or renovating an existing facility?

What type of equipment do you need for slaughter and/or processing?

How many coolers and freezers do you need?

Will you install a power generator or other emergency equipment?

Step 2. Hire an engineer

Do your research and find engineering firms that have experience with meat processing plants. Meat processing facilities have special requirements and considerations, so having an experienced engineer on your side will pay off in the long run. Be aware that most engineering firms will require upfront payments for their services.

Step 3. Determine permits needed

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Capacity

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How many animals of each specie do you intend to process in one week?

How many carcasses will be in the cooler at one time?

Do you have adequate space for employees to work safely?

Inspection

Will you operate under state or federal inspection, or with custom exempt licensing?

Inspection information and resources for South Dakota can be found in the article, Meat Inspection in South Dakota:

The types of utility permits you will need are dependent on your location. Check with your local officials to determine your specific needs.

Step 4. Explore financing options

Your local bank may be willing to finance your business, but it never hurts to look into other options. Look for grant opportunities and other funding sources such as the SD Governor’s Office of Economic Development or federal assistance. Additional information about federal assistance programs can be found in this USDA resource.

Step 5. Identify industry mentors

Maybe you grew up working in a butch-

CONTINUED ON PAGE B21

Seeds and transplanting tips

Once plants flower, keep the color coming by removing faded flower heads (deadheading).

If a flowering plant blooms and then fades, revitalize it by shearing off the faded blooms and one-third of the top growth, then fertilize. This restores the performance and blooming of “past their prime” plants.

• It helps to pinch out the center of young flowering plants, such as petunias and fuchsias, to encourage more bushy side growth. Tall delphiniums, sunflowers, and dahlias may need to be tied to stakes.

Chris Mattson from First Bank of Montana and Dean Lerum with Marias River Livestock Association were on hand to visit with producers at Montana’s Next Generation conference in Shelby. Photo by Kari Lewis.

What to know about feeding road ditch hay to cows

By Troy Walz, Nebraska Extension Educator

The year was dry, forage is limited, last winter’s feed shortage is frozen into your memory, and you have cows to feed. With these thoughts in mind, maybe you harvested hay from the roadside—“ditch hay”— and will be feeding that hay soon. There are several things for you to think about and keep in mind as you feed the hay.

Did you walk the road ditch and pick up trash before you hayed it?

Even if you did walk the road ditch, watch carefully as you feed and pick up any trash that may cause problems. Metal parts, plastic, glass shards, and all other kinds of trash could have ended up in the hay. Ingested metal or plastic objects can cause hardware disease in cattle, and debris can cause issues with feeding/ranch equipment or cause lameness in animals, so it’s important to be extra vigilant as you feed that hay.

What are the plants that are growing in the ditch?

Did you observe if any of the plants are annuals or mostly perennials? Are the grasses cool-season, warm-season, or a mix? When did you harvest the hay? Depending on the type of grasses and timing of haying, this will affect the quality of the hay. Forage quality declines as plants mature. Coolseason grasses like smooth bromegrass mature in June and warm-season grasses like big bluestem mature in August. Are the forbs common forbs that you have in your pastures? Are they forbs that you would want growing where you feed? Are there any noxious weeds? Was the road ditch sprayed with a herbicide? If so, what was the herbicide? Some herbicides are not labeled for forages that will be fed to livestock and some herbicides may have carryover and remain active in the hay and the manure from the cattle that eat the hay. Consider carefully where you feed this hay, knowing you may have some undesirable plant species to deal with next spring and summer or possible herbicide effects.

What is the nutrient quality of the hay?

Taking a sample of the hay and having it analyzed is the only way to know its quality. Test, Don’t Guess - sampling and testing hay discusses the correct way to sample hay. Once you know the nutrient quality, you can formulate rations, along with any needed supplement(s), to meet the nutrient requirements of the cows you are feeding. How to Meet your Cow’s Nutrient Needs when Feeding Hay this Winter can help you in your decisionmaking process.

Road ditch hay can provide needed forage. With a few precautions and a forage analysis, it can help you meet your cow’s nutrient requirements this winter.

Five initial steps

CONTINUED FROM PAGE B20 shop and are already a skilled butcher. If that isn’t the case and you haven’t worked in the industry before, you may want to find a mentor or someone familiar with the industry to teach you proper techniques. You can contact your state Extension specialists for training workshops or get some advice from your inspector about food safety questions but having someone in your corner who processes meat on a daily basis is also helpful.

Undertaking a new business venture can be both an exciting and a stressful time. However, proper planning and preparation on the forefront can help prevent costly mistakes and problems in the future.

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1985 Ford F600 service truck, diesel, 5+2 speed, 8000 lb Auto Crane, compressor $11,000

1994 Ford F600 service truck, diesel, 5+2 speed, 6200# IMT crane, compressor, hydraulic outriggers $12,500

1985 Ford F700 4x4 service truck, IMT 5000 lb crane, underhood air compressor, outriggers $15,000

1992 Ford F700 diesel, 8 speed, 13.5-ft. flatbed, 5000 lb crane, outriggers $10,000

1986 Ford F800 National 228 37-ft. crane, 14-ft. dump bed $10,000

1979 GMC chip truck $6500

1989 International 41-ft. bucket truck, diesel, automatic $10,000

1981 International 1800 4x4 flatbed, 14,000 lb knuckle boom $12,500

2006 Ford F650 ladder truck, needs a generator. $17,500 12-ft. flatbed, 3200 lb. IMT crane, air compressor $5000 Maintainer service crane, 6000 lb $6000 (11) 20-ton 24-ft. tilt bed trailers $7500 - $12,500

1999 Haulin 31-ft. flatbed (expands to 34-ft.), telescopic hitch and air brakes. Good for round bales $10,000 12-ton 22-ft. tilt bed trailer $6500

16-ft. flatbed dump with hoist $3500 1-ton utility beds, starting at $1000 2 ton dump boxes, each $1000 Buckets for skid steer loaders

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##### Women: “Communication is the most important thing in a relationship.” - 2 million hours – The average time men spend trying to find out why their darling is angry with them.

#####

Thank you for your birthday wishes on Facebook. Who are you by the way?

By Anna Tvedt, SDSU Extension Nutrition Field Specialist. Originally written by Whitney Blindert, Midwest Dairy Council, under the direction

and review of Ann Schwader. Updated by Anna Tvedt, SDSU Extension Nutrition Field Specialist. About Lactose Intolerance

February is Lactose Intolerance Awareness Month, but anytime is a good time to clear up confusion about the condition, and return to confidently eating the dairy foods you love. Lactose intolerance occurs when a person has difficulty digesting lactose (the sugar naturally found in milk), which may cause them to experience physical symptoms when consuming foods that contain lactose, such as gas, diarrhea, bloating, belly pains, and nausea.

Many people don’t realize that lactose intolerance doesn’t have to mean complete dairy avoidance; avoiding dairy can mean missing out on key nutrients. Milk is affordable and naturally nutrient-rich like no other beverage, providing nutrients we need like calcium for strong bones and protein for healthy muscles.

Because tolerance for lactose varies from person to person, lactose intolerance is a highly individualized condition. A person should talk to their doctor or a registered dietitian about a management approach that best suits him or her.

Consuming Dairy Safely

There’s no need to switch to imitation milk; by following simple tips and tricks for management, people with lactose intolerance can feel good about choosing dairy foods first.

Sip It. Start with a small amount of milk daily and increase slowly over several days or weeks to tolerance.

Stir It. Mix milk with other foods, such as smoothies, soups or sauces, or pair it with meals. This helps give your body more time to digest it.

Slice It. Top sandwiches or crackers with natural cheeses, such as Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, and Swiss. These cheeses are low in lactose.

Shred It. Shred your favorite natural cheese onto soups, pastas, and salads. It’s an easy way to incorporate a serving of dairy that is low in lactose.

Spoon It. Enjoy easy-to-digest yogurt. The live and active cultures in yogurt help to digest lactose.

For more information about dairy and for recipes, visit the Midwest Dairy website

Proposal Day

Date When Celebrated: This holiday is always March 20

Ladies and gentlemen, this could be a big, big day. It’s Proposal Day!

Valentine’s Day last month came and went. He didn’t, or couldn’t, gather up the nerve to ask you. Along comes another day and another opportunity.

For those in love, this could very well be the big day that will change your lives.

Use caution on this day. When he begins by saying: “I would like to propose to you....”, he may end with “...... that we go see a movie.” Remember, it’s Proposal Day. It is a day to make proposals. However, it may not be the one you want to hear.

With all the suggestions about romance on Proposal Day, one must recognize that this day can be about ANY type of proposal. For example, legislators may propose a new law, you might attend a meeting about a new business proposal, or a friend may simply propose that you go to a movie or a ball game.

Mythunderstandings

Hippocrates MYTH: Hippocrates was the father of modern medicine. THE TRUTH: Thanks to the Hippocratic oath, which is still administered during the graduation ceremonies of many medical schools, the name of the ancient Greek physician has become virtually synonymous with the practice of medicine. He may have tried to heal people, but like all doctors of his era, Hippocrates knew virtually nothing about the workings of the human body. And almost all of what he did believe–for example “that veins carried air, not blood, and illness was caused by vapor secreted by indigested food from unsuitable diets”–was dead wrong.

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##### If it’s too much for you to think about consuming water while out drinking, ensuring you have a large glass of water when you get home can make your body much more hydrated when you wake up in the morning and therefore can lessen the negative effects of a hangover.

Reviewing cow-calf share and cash lease agreements

By Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Beef Educator

The trend in cattle prices over the last year has been dramatically toward the upside. Prices have risen higher and faster than many market analysts thought possible for 2023. These changes in market value are having an impact on beef cow share and cash lease agreements in determining what is “fair” to both cow owners and those who are leasing the cows.

For a cow owner, the following are the four major drivers that determine what is “fair” in terms of a cash lease or percentage of the calf crop the cow owner should receive. Those factors are:

• Average cow herd value

• Cow salvage value

• Replacement rate

• Expected rate of return (interest rate) on cow value

The average market value of bred cows and cow salvage values are significantly higher than they were just a year ago. This dramatic change in market value is impacting what is “fair” in terms of the amount of cash lease that would be expected to go to cow owners, or the percentage of the calf crop a cow owner should receive. This change is due to the current market value of a bred cow versus what the bred cow value was in the fall of 2022. The dramatic increase in interest rates over the last two years is also impacting what is a “fair” share and cash lease rate as well. The change in cow value as well as increasing interest rates means the person owning the cows may need to get a larger cash lease payment or percentage of the calf crop to reflect more accurately what is “fair” compared to where things were just two years ago.

For the upcoming 2024-year, cow-calf share leases or cash leases should be reviewed. The lease should accurately reflect what each person will contribute to the production of weaned calves and what their compensation should be either in cash or in a percentage of the calf crop.

The UNL Beef website has several resources that can help both cow owners and those leasing cows in determining what a “fair” lease arrangement should be. Two resources are: the Beef Cow Share Lease Agreements Extension Circular 841, and a video explaining the use of the Cow-Calf Share Lease Cow-Q-Lator, an Excel® based spreadsheet.

Annually reviewing cow-calf share or cash cow lease agreements is prudent under current rapidly fluctuating market conditions. For cow share or lease agreements to be successful long term, it must work for all parties involved.

Giant Panda Day

Always celebrated on March 16

The Giant Panda Bear is one of the cutest, most adorable, and most loved animal on the planet. It’s a favorite stuffed animal of many kids and more than a few adults.

The Giant Panda Bear is an endangered species. There are less than 2,000 in existence in the wild. In addition, they are in over 100 zoos around the world. These lovable creatures are sometimes referred to as “beasts”. They are the symbol of the International World Wildlife Federation.

Did You Know? “Giant” was added to the name panda bear to distinguish it from its cousin the Red Panda. But they are not related. Giant pandas are members of the bear (Ursidae) family, while red pandas are the only members of the “ailuridae” family.

The black and white giant panda bear is one of the most lovable of all animals, and is believed to have mystical powers. Giant pandas are native to China living in cool, wet, remote mountainous forests. Their favorite food is bamboo, spending up to 14 hours eating the leaves, stems, and roots. Fruit is also on their diet. Pandas are loners, except during the mating season. After mating, the female chases away the male and raises the cubs by herself. Their life span is 15 to 25 years.

How to Celebrate Giant Panda Day

• Go to the zoo to see pandas.

• Learn more about pandas.

• Buy panda stuffed animals for yourself or others.

• Support efforts to help this endangered species.

• Read a book about them.

• Grade schoolteachers, have the class draw pictures of panda bears in art class.

Including sulfur in soil fertility programs can benefit crops

From the MSU News Service

Sulfur’s role as an agricultural nutrient is often overlooked, but including it in soil fertility programs can positively impact crop yield, quality and economics, according to a Montana State University Extension specialist.

Clain Jones, MSU Extension soil fertility specialist and professor in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, said that modern phosphorus and potassium fertilizers contain less sulfur as a manufacturing byproduct than they historically did. Coupled with higher-yielding varieties and more intense cropping, leading to more sulfur being removed from fields, there is an increased chance for sulfur deficiencies. Sulfur-deficient plants are often stunted with yellow upper leaves, in contrast to yellow lower leaves, which indicates nitrogen deficiency, Jones said.

“Crops can respond to sulfur additions in a manner similar to nitrogen,” Jones said.

Sulfur, like nitrogen, is a building block for proteins. If sulfur is deficient, crops may not use nitrogen fertilizer as efficiently, resulting in less than optimum grain protein and yield. By applying sulfur and increasing the efficiency of nitrogen use, farmers can also decrease nitrate leaching and soil acidification — and possibly lower the amount of nitrogen needed, Jones said.

Testing

Jones said there is no single recommended sulfur soil test as there is with nitrate. That’s partly because soil sulfur availability is often highly variable across a field. Coarsetextured soils with low organic matter are the most susceptible to sulfur deficiencies. He noted that when six to 10 soil samples from across a field are mixed for laboratory analysis — which is the standard in Montana — one or two high-sulfur samples could skew the results and suggest the field doesn’t need sulfur when most of it is deficient.

“Although more expensive in the short term, it can be highly beneficial to learn which parts of a field have low sulfur through ‘grid sampling’ instead of mixed samples,” Jones said.

Jones recommends learning what sulfur test a laboratory uses. He said numerous soil tests are available, and each can produce very different results.

“For example, the Mehlich-3 test, which is used in midwestern and eastern states, greatly overestimates sulfur availability in higher-pH Montana soils,” Jones said. Calcium phosphate extraction tests are recommended for western soils, but other extracts might do an adequate job of assess-

CONTINUED ON PAGE B26

##### In England, pigeon poop is the property of the Crown. Because of this, King George I declared all pigeon poop to be the property of the Crown in the 18th Century.

##### Broccoli is a “manmade” food. Broccoli only came about after years and years of selective breeding between wild cabbage plants that started around the 6th century BC. In fact, the word “broccoli” comes from the Italian for “the flowering crest of a cabbage.”

Including sulfur in soil fertility programs

ing available sulfur, too, Jones said.

In addition, Jones recommends testing sulfur fertilizer in strips within fields and conducting plant tissue sampling to learn if crops have sulfur deficiencies. Plant tissue testing should be done early in the season so that a “rescue” sulfur treatment can be applied to nitrogen-deficient areas.

Fertilization

Jones recommends considering the “4Rs” – right place, right rate, right time and right source – for fertilization.

Because sulfur is needed early in the growing season, it should be applied at seeding, either in the furrow or sidebanded. Side-banding avoids the risk of fertilizer damage to the seedling when high rates are placed in-furrow, he said. Sulfate is mobile and can also be applied as a surface broadcast application if ammonium sulfate is used.

Gypsum is less acidifying than ammonium sulfate, so Jones recommends using it on acidic soils, even though it’s somewhat less soluble. Elemental sulfur, on the other hand, becomes available too slowly for in-season use and needs to be applied a year or two before it is needed. Fall applications of sulfate are not recommended because sulfur, like nitrogen, can be leached easily by fall-to-spring precipitation.

Unlike other major nutrients, there’s limited guidance for sulfur fertilization rate requirements of Montana crops. Oilseeds, including canola and yellow mustard, need far more sulfur than cereals like wheat and barley, Jones said. He noted that in high-yielding oilseed fields, 20 pounds of sulfur fertilizer per acre should prevent sulfur deficiency, regardless of soil test results.

Alfalfa is also a large user of sulfur, needing about 22 pounds of sulfur per acre for a 4-ton per acre yield. Cereals and pulse crops, like lentils, chickpeas and peas, likely need only 5-10 pounds of sulfur fertilizer per acre, with the higher amount needed on fields with high yield potential.

Research

A recently accepted research paper by Perry Miller, professor in the MSU Department of Land Resources and Environmental Sciences, to be published in the Agronomy Journal, found that only 5 pounds of added sulfur per acre increased lentil grain yield in 20% of sites in Montana and North Dakota. Due to the low cost of sulfur fertilizer, the average increased grain yield easily offset the sulfur fertilizer cost, even when accounting for sites where lentil grain yields did not increase, Jones said.

Jones is currently conducting research funded by the Montana Fertilizer Check-off with colleagues Miller, Pat Carr and Justin Vetch with the MSU Department of Research Centers to determine the sulfur needs of spring canola, pea and wheat, and to evaluate different sulfur soil tests, following previous MSU studies on the effects of sulfur on lentil crops. In addition, there are ongoing Montana sulfur studies on winter canola led by Miller and on cereal forages led by Hayes Goosey in the MSU Department of Animal and Range Sciences.

Goosey noted that adequate sulfur levels can decrease forage nitrate levels in cereal forages.

“Forage nitrate is a concern for livestock owners because it causes early-term abortions and other reproductive issues in pregnant animals,” Goosey said.

Questions about sulfur or soil nutrients may be directed to Jones at clainj@montana.edu or 406-994-6076.

Cut Bank farmer/rancher, JC Seewald, took a break from hauling barley to enjoy the numerous crops and livestock classes at Montana’s Next Generation Conference on bull selection, regenerative ag, crop insurance and more. Photo by Kari Lewis.

Deadline for advertising in the April. 2024 issue is WEDNESDAY, March 27th.

First

Commercial and noncommercial pesticide applicator training in 2024

By Jennifer Weisbrod, Pesticide Safety Education Program Coordinator, Extension Educator

If your commercial/noncommercial pesticide applicator license expires in 2024, it’s time to start thinking about recertification training. Recertification must be completed by Monday, April 15.

In 2024, commercial/noncommercial applicators can recertify by either (1) attending a face-to-face recertification training session, (2) completing online commercial/ noncommercial recertification training, or (3) attending an approved conference. Approved conferences include:

Crop Production Clinics (categories offered*: 01, D/R)

Custom Applicator School (categories offered: 01)

Nebraska Turf Conference (categories offered: 04)

Urban Pest Management Conference (categories offered: 08, 08W, 11, 14)

Nebraska Aviation Trades Association Convention (categories offered: 01, 07, 12)

*All approved conferences include the General Standards category, 00.

If you plan to attend a face-to-face recertification session or conference, be sure that the event you choose offers the category or categories you need. Some categories do not have recertification opportunities (01A, 02, 03, 05S, 06, REG, D/R); these categories require you to retake an exam to recertify.

New Applicators/Adding a Category to an Existing License

Those looking to get a commercial/noncommercial license for the first time or add a new applicator category to an existing license must pass exams administered by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture (NDA). “Initial” certification can be done at any time during the year, though initial training sessions end in March.

New commercial/noncommercial applicators must pass a general standards exam (covering information relevant to all applicators) and at least one categoryspecific exam.

To add a category to an existing license, applicators must pass that category’s exam.

Exams are offered at initial training sessions, testing-only sessions and through the Pearson VUE computerized testing service.

The Pesticide Safety Education Office strongly recommends that you prepare for your applicator exams. Exam preparation options are as follows:

Purchase study manuals for each category needed and attend an initial training session (exams are taken at the end of the session).

Purchase study manuals for each category needed and take your exams at a testingonly session.

Purchase enhanced digital versions of the study manuals (“FlipBooks”) for each category needed. If you purchase FlipBooks, you do not need to attend initial training too. However, you will still need to arrange to take your exams. The Pesticide Safety Education Office recommends this option — FlipBooks combine the study manuals with the videos shown at initial training sessions into one digital product, saving you money.

After passing your applicator exams, the NDA will mail you a postcard requesting payment of a licensing fee (there is no fee for noncommercial licenses). Once the fee is paid, NDA issues your three-year license.

Background

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classifies pesticide products as restricted-use pesticides (RUP) if they pose an increased risk to human health or the environment. To purchase and use RUPs, one must be certified/licensed by the

state where they will be using the products. In Nebraska, commercial applicators who handle general-use pesticides (available to the general public) for structural or ornamental/turf pest control must also be certified/licensed. Likewise, applicators who handle general-use pesticides for outdoor vector control (e.g., mosquito control) on behalf of a political subdivision of the state (villages, towns, counties, etc.) must be certified/licensed. Commercial/noncommercial applicators in Nebraska must demonstrate their competency to handle RUPs by passing written exams. Nebraska applicator licenses last three years and must then be renewed.

This online tool can help you determine if you need a license, which type of license you need, and what your options are for getting it.

Important Changes

Both new and recertifying applicators should be aware of changes to Nebraska’s applicator certification/licensing program:

The minimum age for certified applicators is now 18 years.

New and recertifying applicators should be prepared to present government-issued identification (e.g., a driver’s license) at training and exam sessions.

The appearance of commercial/noncommercial applicator license will be updated. They will now be a blue color and will include the “00” category in which all applicators must be certified.

Some commercial/noncommercial applicator categories have changed slightly. The most notable change regards rodent burrow fumigation: these applications, which have previously fallen under the Wildlife Damage Control category (11), will now fall under the Non-Soil and Structural Fumigation category (11). A comparison of the previous category definitions with the new definitions being phased in is available online.

These changes are being phased in over a three-year period (2022-24) as applicators come up for recertification. For example, an applicator certified in category 14 whose license expires in 2024 can continue treating rodent burrows with fumigants until he/she recertifies in 2024. At that point, the applicator would need to add category 11 to their license to continue using rodent burrow fumigants. For questions on these changes, please call the NDA at 402-4712351 or the Pesticide Safety Education Office at 402-472-1632.

Other Pesticide Training You May Need

XtendiMax®, Engenia® and Tavium® are RUPs containing dicamba that can only be used on dicamba-tolerant soybean and cotton crops. In addition to requiring a pesticide applicator license, you must also take yearly dicamba-specific training before purchasing or applying any of these three herbicides. The products’ registrants (Bayer, BASF and Syngenta, respectively) will provide this training. For more information on RUP dicamba, please visit the NDA’s website.

Paraquat is an herbicide that is acutely toxic to humans; all products containing paraquat are RUPs. In addition to requiring a pesticide applicator license, you must take paraquat-specific training (every three years) to purchase or apply paraquat products. This paraquat training is available for free on the Extension Foundation Online Campus and can be completed at any time.

Beautiful Orchids how to keep them that way

Written by Catherine Wissner, retired University of Wyoming Laramie County Extension Horticulturist

The orchid family is huge, amazing, beautiful and found growing in every continent except the Arctic or Antarctic. However, the two most popular orchids and sold in stores around Christmas, Valentine’s Day and Easter are Phalaenopsis and Cattleya. These two species of orchids come in a variety colors, are easier to care for, the blooms can last for weeks. Phalaenopsis, or moth orchid has large, long-lasting blooms and is native to India, China, and Southeast Asia. The Cattleya, also called the corsage orchid or queen of orchids is endemic to Colombia. With proper care, both can bloom in the home year after year.

The biggest killer of orchids is over watering them. They do not like to have wet roots or sit in water. Orchids have epiphytic roots. Epiphytic type plants are sometimes referred to as “air plants” because they do not actually root in soil. As a houseplant soil for orchids is unique and allows more air flow, yet holds some moisture.

Orchids are always potted in a see-through container, as their visible roots indicate how much moisture they need. If the plant needs more moisture, the roots will look silvery. Severely dehydrated roots look wrinkled and tan. Dark and mushy roots are overwatered and beginning to rot. The goal is plump roots that are green after watering, returning to a silvery-green color as they dry off. If you repot your orchid it must go in a see-through container, correct orchid soil and have excellent drainage.

When you do water, every 7 to 14 days, allow the orchid to drain. Placing the plant on a tray or saucer filled with pebbles, than add water to the tray. This helps provided much welcome humidity. Again, never allow orchid roots to sit in water.

Orchids can stay nonflowering for years if they do not receive the right light. The best location for orchids is filtered or indirect sunlight, never full or direct. They like cool nights around 65 degrees and day temps a bit warmer. If possible place your plant in a north or east-facing window in winter months to trigger new flower spike. Orchids can remain non-flowering for 6-9 months before producing a new bloom. Patience is key!

After the orchid has finished flowering trim off the old flower spike. This helps speeds up the process of new spike formation and reblooming. Cut the greenish spike back one inch above the highest node, or bump, on the spike. For unhealthy, brown spikes, cut all the back to the base of the plant. This is not a fast growing house plant and patience with them is important.

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I got into a peck of trouble today, Father. When I was asked for my driver’s license to verify my account at the bank, the teller pointed out that it was expired! I’ve been driving around for two weeks without a license. Thank you for this alert and for keeping me safe. Please give me extra grace as I deal with the people at the Department of Motor Vehicles first thing tomorrow.

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No-till forage establishment

By Sjoerd Willem Duiker, Professor of Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics, Penn State University

No-tillage has many benefits such as soil erosion control, moisture conservation, soil health improvement, greater timeliness, time and labor savings, and energy savings. These benefits get elevated when we think of forage establishment considering the small seed size of forages such as alfalfa, red and white clover, and perennial grasses. If established with tillage, a fine seedbed is required, which often necessitates multiple passes with tillage equipment and excessive soil pulverization, with all its ramifications. Fortunately, obtaining an excellent no-till stand is now achievable with a variety of quality no-till drills on the market. But there is more to it than just having good equipment. You need to plan ahead by choosing the right species, getting your soil fertility right, controlling previous vegetation, and residue management.

When starting with no-till forages, make sure your field is table-top level. Sometimes there are old plow furrows or other unevenness in the field, compromising drill depth control for many years into the future. Make sure the species you plant are adapted to your soil type (for example, alfalfa is not adapted to wet soils). Take a soil test and correct pH and fertility according to recommendations (this should have been done in the fall for spring seedings). Existing vegetation needs to be totally dead. Forages are not aggressive starters so existing weeds or sod may easily outcompete the young seedlings. Killing a cover crop such as rye or wheat with herbicide can be challenging when temperatures are low. That is why it is often preferred to plant spring no-till forages after a winter-killed cover crop such as oats.

It is preferred to not have very heavy residue cover as it becomes challenging to get good seed-to-soil contact and depth control. Good scenarios for no-till forage establishment are after small grain harvest where straw has been removed, or after corn silage or soybean harvest, but it is hard to get a good forage stand after corn grain harvest due to heavy stover. Make sure that chaff and residue from the previous crop is spread uniformly. A common failure with no-till forages is to have swaths of heavy residue next to zones without residue due to poor residue distribution behind the combine which makes it impossible to get seed depth right. Finally, respect herbicide rotational restrictions—residual herbicides from the previous year can negatively affect your forage establishment.

When choosing a drill, make sure it is suited to plant the species you intend to use. The drill needs to be able to plant the seeds no deeper than ¼–½ inch deep so good depth control is essential. Because of small reserves for emergence, the seedlings usually die when planted too deep. Some drills have a depth control wheel several feet behind the opener disks, which can cause problems if the field has some unevenness because the depth control wheel may be in a small depression causing the disk opener to dig too deep into the soil, or on a tiny hill causing the seed to be dropped on the soil surface. In fact, the seed drop tubes from the small seed box typically drop the seed behind the disk openers instead of between them to avoid planting them too deep. The press wheel then gently presses the seeds into the soil. Other drills have a depth control wheel next to the opener and do not have as much of a problem with depth control.

It is good to occasionally see a few seeds at the soil surface after planting; that means you are not planting too deep. It is also important to check that all seed tubes are connected and open: check for spider webs, mice, or other things that may block seed flow through seed tubes. Also, check that the metering system is in top shap—some drills use sponges for metering, and we have learned that mice like to chew through them in search of some food in the winter! If you plan to plant fluffy seeds such as smooth bromegrass or warm season grasses in the future, make sure the drill has agitators inside the seed box to avoid bridging of the seed. You also need large diameter seed tubes for these seeds to avoid bridging. Another option is to mix the fluffy seeds with other seeds to avoid this. Further, coulters and disk openers all need to be in top shape so check on wear and make repairs as needed. With proper planning, no-till forage establishment can be very successful. In fact, producers experience that with no-till forages near surface soil moisture is conserved and that seeding depth is more easily controlled than in tilled soil (especially when the seedbed is cloddy). The soil therefore does not dry out as quickly as with tillage, and less seed is wasted due to improper seeding depth. Add to that the other benefits of no-till and this practice becomes a true winner.

North Dakota 4-H team wins national horse quiz bowl

A North Dakota 4-H team from Ward County earned the national champion title in the Horse Quiz Bowl contest of the 4-H Western National Roundup held during the National Western Stock Show in Denver, Colorado.

The national champion team members were:

Emily Fannik from Max, North Dakota

Hailey Schauer from Lake Park, Minnesota (formerly Carpio, North Dakota)

Mackenzie Wipf from Ryder, North Dakota

Mikaela Woodruff from Edgeley, North Dakota (formerly Garrison, North Dakota)

Under the guidance of their coaches, NDSU Extension agents Paige Brummund and Emily Burkett, the team also secured individual top 10 placings. Woodruff placed first, Fannik third and Wipf eighth.

The Horse Quiz Bowl tests not only knowledge about horses but also quick thinking, as participants had to buzz in and recite the answer faster than their opponents. The competition spanned nine rounds, covering topics related to veterinary science, nutrition, horse care and general horse industry knowledge. Despite facing an initial setback against Utah in the first round of competition, the North Dakota team won each of their next eight rounds, including victories against South Dakota, Georgia, Mississippi, Utah (in a second match) and Kansas.

“I am proud of the effort the team put into preparing for and participating in the contest,” says Brummund. “Quiz Bowl can be one of the tougher events to prepare for, as a little bit of luck comes into play with what questions you will be asked and who gets assigned what question. The added pressure of being the first person to buzz in adds excitement and a unique challenge to the event.”

Notably, team members Fannik and Woodruff were a part of the 2023 national champion Hippology team from North Dakota. Woodruff was the individual champion, and Fannik placed third in the 2023 Hippology event.

Bunsen

Burner Day

This holiday is always observed on March 31

This holiday celebrates the birthday of its creator. German chemist Robert Wilhelm Eberhard von Bunsen was born on March 31, 1811. And, you guessed it, von Bunsen created the Bunsen Burner.

High school students know all about the bunsen burner. It’s a standard piece of equipment in a science lab. If you work in a chemistry laboratory, chances are you use the burner in your job. If it’s been a while since high school chemistry class, the memory of the Bunsen burner may have faded somewhat.

In case your memory has faded, the Bunsen Burner is a long, hollow tube. Gas and air are combined to create an extremely hot flame. The burner is used in a wide range of scientific and laboratory projects.

Spend a few minutes today to appreciate the value of this important scientific tool.

The Ward County 4-H Horse Quiz Bowl team placed first in the nation at the 4-H Western National Roundup. Team members are, from left, Hailey Schauer, Mackenzie Wipf, Mikaela Woodruff and Emily Fannik. (NDSU photo)

ID ag enjoyed record sales of 4 top commodities

By Brett Wilder, University of Idaho Area Extension Educator

Idaho agriculture overcame a struggling dairy market to record a second consecutive year of stellar cash receipts in 2023, propelled by record values of four of the state’s major crops, according to a new University of Idaho economic report.

Idaho agricultural cash receipts for the year totaled $11.157 billion, down by just 1% from the record-high number food producers celebrated in 2022, according to “The Financial Condition of Idaho Agriculture: 2023” by U of I agricultural economists Brett Wilder and Xiaoxue “Rita” Du.

The 2023 report concludes the state’s farmers brought in record revenue from sugar beets, up by 25%; potatoes, up by 14%; cattle and calves, up by 18%; and barley, up by 17%.

The U of I economists presented their report during a series of Idaho Ag Outlook seminars, featuring leading industry experts and hosted Dec. 12 in Idaho Falls, Dec. 13 in Twin Falls, Dec. 14 in Nampa and Dec. 19 in Lewiston.

“We’ve had back-to-back excellent years to be in Idaho agriculture,” Wilder said. “We’ve had all-time record highs in four commodity groups.”

Offsetting some of those gains, however, was an 18% revenue drop from Idaho’s top commodity, dairy, which represents nearly a third of the state’s total agricultural cash receipts. Idaho still

ranks as the nation’s No. 3 producer of dairy, with the value of its production declining to just over $3.5 billion in 2023. Evidencing Idaho dairymen’s struggles, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dairy Margin Coverage Program paid out in Idaho during every month of 2023.

After expenses, however, the report estimates farm profits will be down by 11% in 2023, at $3.769 billion. It’s a strong earnings total, nonetheless, following Idaho’s record 112% net farm income increase in 2022.

“It’s a very good number. We’re still near all-time highs,” Wilder said. “We’re down 11% year over year but the U.S. is down 17%, so we’re still outperforming the rest of the country. Farmers and ranchers did well in 2023.”

Increasing expenses were mostly driven by high interest rates. Farmers’ interest expenses are estimated to increase 42% to $714 million in 2023. Idaho farmers are also expected to take a hit regarding government payments, projected to decline by 22% to $153 million in 2023.

Looking ahead, economists predict growth in milk prices in 2024, primarily because the U.S. has the cheapest dairy prices, which should give producers an export boost. Idaho is also poised to add new dairy processing capacity.

Feed prices, both of hay and grain, are expected to decline. But Wilder expects the market for cattle and calves will be especially strong in 2024 due to the combination of extremely tight inventory and strong demand. Wilder believes cattlemen have begun keeping their animals much longer to increase carcass weight.

“If you own cows today and don’t have to go buy calves at the prices that are being asked,

it’s a fun time to be in the beef industry,” Wilder said.

U of I agricultural economist Xiaoli Etienne, Idaho Wheat Commission Bill Flory Endowed Chair in Risk Management, predicts most farming inputs will hold steady or decline slightly in 2024. Gasoline is forecast to drop 2% in 2024, while diesel prices should remain the same or drop slightly. Farm chemical prices dropped by 20% in the past year and may continue to decline in 2024. The value of Idaho farmland and cropland rental rates should remain stable throughout the coming year. Electricity prices should hold steady or increase slightly, as should machinery costs.

Costs of corn, wheat and barley seed for planting should increase slightly. Hired labor costs are expected to climb by 2.04%. While the average loan rate rose 35% throughout the past year, the Federal Reserve is expected to begin cutting interest rates in 2024.

Wilder anticipates a more significant drop in agricultural cash receipts will occur in 2024.

“My expectation in 2024 is we should be down below $11 billion but still above $10 billion, unless something catastrophic happens,” Wilder said.

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The best preparation for tomorrow is the right use of today.

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Don’t opt for fast food when God is serving soul food.

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How come I can’t wait to call my friends...but wait until Sunday to call my Friend?

2022 Census of Ag Data

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) announced the results of the 2022 Census of Agriculture, spanning more than 6 million data points about America’s farms and ranches and the people who operate them down to the county level. The information collected directly from producers shows a decrease in the total number of Montana farms. The data shows an increase in the number of new and beginning (operating 10 or fewer years on any farm) as well as young (under the age of 35) producers in Montana. The full Census of Agriculture report as well as publication dates for additional ag census data products can be found at nass.usda.gov/AgCensus. Ag census data can also be found in NASS’s searchable online database, Quick Stats.

“We are pleased to provide updated Census of Agriculture data to all those who serve U.S. agriculture, especially the producers who gave their time to complete the questionnaire. Census of Agriculture data tell a story. This comprehensive snapshot every five years helps data users to see trends, shifts in the industry over time, and helps producers do business,” said NASS Administrator Hubert Hamer. “Overall, though there are always changes across U.S. agriculture, the data remain largely consistent with the previous ag census. Data users will also notice some new data on the topics of hemp, precision agriculture, and internet access.”

Ag census data provides a valuable insight into demographics, economics, land use and activities on Montana farms and ranches such as:

There were 24,266 farms and ranches in Montana, down 10.3% from 2017 on 57.6 million acres a decrease of 1%.

Family-owned and operated farms accounted for 92.8% of all Montana farms and operated 80% of land in farms.

Montana farms and ranches produced $4.54 billion in agricultural products, up from $3.52 billion in 2017. The majority (55%) of the sales were from crop sales. The Grains, oilseeds, dry beans, and dry peas category led with 43.0% of all sales, followed by Cattle (38.6%). With farm production expenses of $4.36 billion, Montana farms had net cash income of $1.14 billion. Average farm income rose to $46,889.

83.6% of Montana farms had internet access in 2022, a slight increase from 81.4% in 2017. However, 78.7% of farms and ranches across the United States had internet access.

A total of 2,544 Montana farms and ranches used renewable energy producing systems compared to 2,555 farms in 2017. Nearly all the Montana farms (85%) with renewable energy systems reported using solar panels.

In 2022, 931 Montana farms sold directly to consumers, with sales of $15.7 million. Value of sales increased .3% from 2017.

The 1,080 farms with sales of $1 million or more were 4.5% of Montana farms and represented 98.7% of sales and government payments. The 13,723 Montana farms (57%) with sales of $50,000 or less accounted for 2.6% of sales and government payments in Montana.

The average age of all Montana producers was 59.3. The average age in 2017 was 58.2 years.

There were 11,724 Montana farmers with 10 or fewer years of experience, an increase in the number of beginning farmers from 2017 of 7%. Beginning farmers in Montana are younger than all farmers, with an average age of 46.9.

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The number of Montana producers under age 35 was 3,689, comprising 8% of all Montana producers.

In 2022, 17,830 female producers accounted for 40% of all Montana producers, compared to 36% of all U.S. producers. Sixty-seven percent of all Montana farms had at least one female decision maker.

“The 2022 Census of Agriculture can be used to help communicate the story surrounding Montana agriculture as it stands today and its pace of rapid change,” said Montana Department of Agriculture Director Christy Clark. “This data helps farmers and ranchers make vital decisions on their operations as well as helping direct us as a department towards providing top tier support to our producers through our programs and services.”

The national response rate for the 2022 Census of Agriculture was 61%; more than 40% of responses were submitted online. Montana’s response rate for the 2022 Census of Agriculture was 59.3%; more than 40% of responses were submitted online. To address questions about the 2022 Census of Agriculture data, NASS will host a live X Stat Chat (@ usda_nass) for the public on Wednesday, Feb. 14, at 1 p.m. EST. Ag census data highlight publications are available at nass.usda.gov/Publications/Highlights.

First conducted in 1840 in conjunction with the decennial Census and conducted since 1997 by USDA NASS – the federal statistical agency responsible for producing official data about U.S. agriculture – the Census of Agriculture remains the most comprehensive agricultural data for every state and county in the nation.

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How to ensure you maintain proper poultry farm biosecurity

Imagine waking up one morning to discover that your once vibrant and productive flock is now showing signs of illness. You notice unhealthy birds, reduced egg production, and even dead birds. The economic consequences can be staggering, not to mention the emotional toll of seeing your hard work succumb to the disease. Diseases like avian influenza and Newcastle disease, among other poultry diseases, can devastate a flock quickly, causing significant losses in backyard settings and commercial poultry farms.

But there’s good news. Solid poultry farm biosecurity measures can help protect your flock from harmful infectious agents, limit additional flock infections, and ensure your poultry operation remains profitable and sustainable. From simple practices like regular hand washing and wearing dedicated poultry clothing to more complex strategies like routine maintenance of farm equipment and rapid detection and removal of sick birds, biosecurity is a comprehensive plan that every poultry grower should embrace.

At Freedom Ranger Hatchery, we understand the importance of biosecurity in maintaining the health and productivity of poultry flocks. Our company’s biosecurity protocols are designed to provide practical and effective solutions to prevent disease outbreaks. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of poultry farm biosecurity and establish a plan that suits your flock’s needs.

Stay with us as we delve deeper into the types of biosecurity in poultry farms. Learn about the best practices, understand the risks, and discover how to implement a biosecurity plan for your poultry farm that will keep your flock safe, healthy, and productive. And remember, we’re just a phone call or email away, ready to assist you in your poultry farming journey. Let’s protect your flock together.

What Is Biosecurity?

Biosecurity, in the context of a poultry farm, refers to a set of preventative measures designed to reduce the risk of transmission of infectious diseases, invasive pests, and other biological threats. It’s about creating and maintaining a healthy environment for your flock, whether you’re a backyard poultry hobbyist or running a large-scale commercial operation. Biosecurity measures can range from simple everyday practices to complex procedures aimed at preventing the introduction and spread of disease-causing organisms.

For instance, at Freedom Ranger Hatchery, we’ve developed stringent biosecurity protocols that include everything from rigorous cleaning and disinfection routines to strict visitor policies. These measures aren’t just about keeping our birds healthy—they also help ensure the quality and safety of the products we provide to our customers.

Why Is the Biosecurity of a Poultry Farm Important?

The importance of biosecurity in poultry farming cannot be overstated. Infectious diseases can devastate poultry operations, leading to significant economic consequences due to loss of stock, decreased egg production, and the potential for additional flock infections. Conditions such as avian influenza, and infectious coryza can quickly spread through a flock, causing widespread illness and death. By implementing effective biosecurity measures, poultry growers can protect their flocks, their livelihoods, and their communities from the impact of infectious diseases.

What Can I Do to Keep My Chickens Safe?

Keeping your chickens safe involves a combination of good management practices and effective biosecurity measures. First and foremost, it’s important to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for your birds. You should provide regular cleaning and disinfection of poultry houses and equipment, proper management of feed and water supplies, and effective pest control measures.

Follow these best practices and common biosecurity measures in poultry farms to keep your chickens safe.

Keep Visitors to a Minimum

One essential element of an effective biosecurity plan is limiting unnecessary human traffic on your farm. Visitors can unintentionally bring disease-causing organisms to their clothing, footwear, or equipment.

While it’s important to share your passion for poultry farming with others, it’s equally important to ensure that your desire to educate doesn’t compromise the health of your flock. If you host visitors, ensure they understand and follow your biosecurity protocols.

Limit Visits to Other Poultry Farms

Just as you should limit visitors to your farm, you should also be cautious about visiting other poultry operations. Diseases can easily hitch a ride back to your farm on your clothing, footwear, or vehicle. If you must visit another poultry farm, change your clothes and footwear and thoroughly clean and disinfect any equipment you bring.

Protect the Poultry Space from Other Animals and Pests

Your poultry farm is attractive to you and your chickens and can also be a magnet for wild animals, pests, and even pets. These animals can carry diseases that can be transmitted to your flock. Therefore, it’s crucial to establish effective barriers to keep these potential carriers out. These barriers could involve fencing off your poultry area, keeping feed bins sealed to discourage pests, and implementing insect control programs.

Keep the Chicken’s Environment Clean

Maintaining a clean environment is one of the most basic yet crucial aspects of poultry farm biosecurity. Regular cleaning and disinfection of poultry houses, feeders, waterers, and other equipment can significantly reduce the risk of disease transmission. It’s also important to manage waste properly, including dead birds and spilled feed, to prevent attracting pests and promoting disease spread.

Wash Your Hands Frequently

Handwashing is a simple but effective biosecurity measure. Hands can quickly become contaminated with disease-causing organisms and serve as a vehicle for disease transmission. Washing your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially before handling birds or after performing tasks such as cleaning poultry houses or handling sick birds, can help prevent the spread of diseases.

Wear Protective Foot Coverings

Footwear can easily pick up and spread diseasecausing organisms, especially in a farm environment. Wearing protective foot coverings, such as disposable boot covers or rubber boots that can be easily cleaned and disinfected, can help prevent the spread of diseases on your farm.

Have Dedicated Poultry Clothing

A chicken farm with a shovel of soiled shavings.

Like your hands and feet, your clothing can also carry disease-causing organisms. Having a set of clothing dedicated to your poultry operations can help reduce the risk of introducing diseases to your flock. After each use, these clothes should be washed separately from other laundry to avoid cross-contamination.

Disinfect Tools and Equipment

Tools and equipment used in poultry operations can harbor disease-causing organisms and contribute to disease spread if not thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. Everything from feed scoops and egg baskets to maintenance tools and vehicles must be cleaned and sanitized.

Watch for Signs of Illness

Early detection of illness can make a big difference in managing a disease outbreak in your flock. Regularly observing your birds and knowing what signs to look for can help you spot problems early and take appropriate action. Signs of illness in chickens can include changes in behavior or appearance, decreased egg production, or increased mortality.

How Does Biosecurity Help Prevent Disease?

Biosecurity helps prevent disease by reducing the opportunities for disease-causing organisms to

enter and spread within your flock. Each biosecurity measure you implement—whether it’s a simple handwashing routine or a more complex visitor policy— creates an additional layer of protection for your birds.

At Freedom

Ranger Hatch -

ery, our comprehensive biosecurity program has been instrumental in maintaining the health of our flocks. By protecting our birds from potential sources of infection, we can provide our customers with high-quality, healthy baby chicks.

How Do I Know if My Chickens Are Sick?

Recognizing when your chickens are sick can be challenging, especially for new poultry producers. However, some common signs can indicate illness, such as changes in eating or drinking habits, decreased activity, changes in egg production, visible signs of distress like ruffled feathers or changes in posture, and increased mortality.

At Freedom Ranger Hatchery, we work closely with veterinarians and other poultry health professionals to ensure we’re equipped to recognize and respond to signs of illness in our birds. When in doubt, we always recommend consulting with a poultry health professional—it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Do Backyard Chicken Keepers Need to Follow These Guidelines?

Absolutely, backyard chicken keepers should also adhere to these guidelines. While it’s true that commercial poultry farms operate on a larger scale, the principles of biosecurity apply just as much to smaller operations. Backyard flocks are not immune to the same diseases that can impact commercial poultry farms, such as avian influenza or Newcastle disease. In fact, they might be more vulnerable due to the close contact with wild birds and other animals in a residential setting.

Backyard chicken farmers should follow the same biosecurity as in broiler production. Implementing poultry biosecurity measures in your backyard chicken operation helps protect the health of your birds, your family, and your community. Simple steps like washing hands before and after handling your chickens, keeping the coop clean, limiting visitors, and watching for signs of illness can go a long way in preventing disease outbreaks. Remember, biosecurity isn’t just for large-scale poultry producers. It’s a crucial part of responsible chicken-keeping, regardless of the size of your flock.

Keep Your Chickens Safe by Only Ordering Baby Chicks from an NPIP-Certified Hatchery

Poultry farm biosecurity is an essential component of successful poultry farming. Whether you’re a small-scale backyard poultry keeper or running a large commercial operation, implementing effective biosecurity measures can make the difference between a thriving flock and devastating disease outbreaks.

Practical and effective biosecurity measures can protect your flock from these threats. From maintaining a clean environment and limiting visitors to observing your birds for signs of illness and taking prompt action when needed, these bird flu biosecurity measures form a comprehensive biosecurity plan that can help ensure the success of your poultry operation.

Remember, maintaining poultry farm biosecurity isn’t just about protecting your birds—it’s about safeguarding your livelihood and contributing to a healthier, more sustainable poultry industry. So don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Let’s work together to protect your flock and ensure the success of your poultry operation.

Stretch your pasture

Blueprint® products have combined to continually provide high-quality options for your cattle. If you are a returning customer, please refer to this transition guide for a new product name.

Blueprint® is the next step forward in high-performing animal nutrition. It is founded on the proven science that the form in which nutrients are delivered is just as important as the level of supplementation.

Simply put, Blueprint is the most transparent animal nutrition program available. Blueprint products contain 100% organic trace minerals made from the highest quality, most research-proven trace minerals available.

Blueprint goes beyond just meeting trace mineral requirements — its superior bioavailability supports exceptional animal performance and health. Blueprint is targeted nutrition, without excess, for peak performance.

Keep adding pounds this winter with BGF-30

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Protein is often the first limiting nutrient on most forage programs, minerals and vitamins play an important role in helping cows stay healthy and in maintaining reproductive efficiency.

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The scoop on grains and concentrates for horses

By Bethany Bickel, Equine Extension Associate, Penn State University

There are a variety of types and forms of feed that can be fed to horses. The sheer number of choices can be overwhelming!

Sweet feed, pelleted feed, oats, corn, ration balancer, oh my! In a perfect, less complicated world, all horses, from pasture pets to growing yearlings to horses in heavy work, could all be fed the same feed. In reality, our horses’ changing nutritional needs throughout various life stages make this concept impossible and require specific diets for each horse.

There are a variety of types and forms of feed that can be fed to horses. The sheer number of choices in the feed store can be overwhelming! Many horses are fed a combination of forage (typically hay or pasture) with a grain mix. Our choices are guided by our horses’ requirements, availability of forages, and cost of feed. Some horses look great on a simple diet of mainly forage, while for other horses finding the right diet to keep them healthy can be difficult. For example, the horse may have a hard time gaining or losing weight. It is important to learn how to feed your horse so that they get all the nutrients they need. Factors that influence a horse’s nutrition requirements include breed, weight, body condition, age, growth stage, breeding status (for both stallions and mares), and performance and training levels. The foundation of any horse’s diet should be forage.

Concentrates

Concentrates include feed such as sweet feed, grains, and pellets, and they are typically added to a horse’s diet to compensate for any nutrient insufficiencies in forages. Working, growing, and pregnant/lactating horses typically need more energy or protein than hay or pasture can offer alone. It may be necessary to provide these types of horses with concentrates. Many “easy keeper” horses do not need grain at all if they are on high-quality forage and many simply require a vitamin/mineral supplement or ration balancer. Horses should be fed concentrates as a supplement to their forage-based diet; remember that horses should be given ~2% of their BW as feed daily, and at a minimum, at least 50% of that feed should be forage.

Grains

There are a number of different grains that are commonly fed to horses. Grains, referred to as ‘cereals’ or ‘cereal grains’ are the edible seeds of specific grasses. The most common are oats, corn, and barley. Milo (sorghum) and wheat are other grains that are fed to horses as well. Grains such as oats, barley, and corn can be fed whole, though many are typically processed to increase digestibility. Examples of how cereal grains may be processed include steam flaking, crimp rolling, extruding, and cracking. Grains are in general low in fiber and high in energy (particularly if processed), but there are differences in the relative amount of different nutrients in each cereal grain. For example, corn is higher in energy than oats or barely. Oats, one of the most popular grains to feed horses, are higher in fiber than corn and barley. Again, processing these grains will improve digestibility; in other words, processing grains will increase the amount of nutrients that the horse can get from the grain. These days, grain is rarely fed by itself as a concentrate; instead, it is often incorporated into pellets or mixed with pellets to make sweet feed.

Commercial Grain and Pellet Mixes

Commercial grain and pellet mixes are another feed option for your horse. They contain a mix of concentrates which provide energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals that are specific are balanced based on a horse’s nutrient needs. Commercial mixes eliminate the guesswork of providing the appropriate amounts of minerals and vitamins in balanced quantities. Adding additional grains to commercial mixes will interfere with the nutritional balance of the feed.

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The scoop on grains and concentrates for horses

Sweet Feed/Textured Feed

Textured feeds are a mixture of several cereal grains and molasses (which is why it is often referred to as sweet feed). A balancer pellet is often included providing minerals and vitamins. Other ingredients may also be added such as rice bran, beet pulp, and powdered fat. Sweet feed is palatable to most horses. This sweet-smelling feed may mold if stored or kept in hot, humid areas. The addition of molasses eliminates dust and increases palatability.

Pelleted Feed

Pelleted feeds often contain the same ingredients as sweet feeds. The ingredients are first ground, then steam-treated, and then forced through a pelleting die. Pellets stop picky eaters from sorting ingredients in their feed. Pelleted feeds have a longer shelf life and are not as likely to mold. It is important to note that hay pellets are different from pelleted feeds and are considered a form of forage, not concentrate.

Extruded Feed

Similar to pelleted feed, extruded feeds are uniform, and the horse will not be able to pick through the ingredients. It is prepared the same way as pelleted feed but has an additional step where the feed is “cooked” under high temperature and pressure before it goes through a die. This helps to break down some of the structures within the nutrients of the feed. It often has a higher fat concentration than pellets. Texturewise, it is typically softer and less dusty as well.

Complete Feed

“Complete” describes a feed that contains everything the horse needs in his diet, including the forage. Complete feeds can be fed as the sole ration. Senior horses that have lost the ability to chew hay will benefit from a complete feed. Medical conditions may require the use of complete feed, for example when dust or hay irritates the airway. Complete feeds can serve as an alternative option when good hay quality is limited in your area as well.

Ration Balancers

Ration balancers are designed to be fed along with forages to horses that do not need additional energy (calories) from concentrates but do need additional protein, vitamins, and minerals. Ration balancers are a pelleted feed. They typically have low crude fiber and fat. The first ingredient is often soybean meal, making them high in protein. It is a heavily fortified feed with small daily recommended feedings. The purpose of a ration balancer is to provide your horse with the essential nutrients that are insufficient in a forage-based diet. Ration balancers provide a good amount of calcium and other key macro-minerals, trace minerals, and fat-soluble vitamins. They are not intended to be fed for extra calories. They often have a high percentage of protein, but this is because such small amounts are fed (1–2 pounds per day). If your horse needs additional vitamins and minerals but not protein, then a vitamin/mineral supplement would be a more appropriate option.

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FROM PAGE C4

Tips on Feeding Concentrate

When feeding commercial concentrates, make sure to follow the feeding instructions on the label. They are carefully formulated to meet your horse’s needs, but only if you feed the right amount. The label will specify how much to feed based on your horse’s body weight. If you only feed half the recommended amount or dilute it by adding whole grains or mixing in another feed, then the benefit of a carefully balanced feed is gone. You may notice that the feeding instructions are in pounds, not quarts or scoops. If you feed by scoop, use a kitchen scale to figure out how much one scoop of each feed weighs, then figure out how many scoops are required to meet the recommended feeding amount. A scoop of pellets will not weigh the same as a scoop of sweet feed, so do this for each different product in your feed room. Lastly, if you have to cut back a horse’s grain to below the recommended amount because it is gaining too much weight, then consider switching it to a ration balancer instead.

Providing a properly balanced diet for your horse is the most significant part of horse ownership and is a key part of keeping your horse healthy. If you rely on a boarding facility, or if you are the sole caregiver for your horse, it is important to understand how to properly feed them. Your veterinarian, extension specialist, or an equine nutritionist are great resources to aid in developing a diet that meets your horse’s nutrient needs.

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Researchers try to pinpoint a moving target

By Scott Elliott, ARS Office of Communications

Zebra chip is a disease of potatoes. It won’t hurt humans who eat it, but its bitter taste – and the fact that it kills host plants – makes it an economic nightmare for potato farmers.

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Scientists understand the disease fairly well, and know that the pathogen that causes zebra chip is spread to plants by the sap-sucking potato psyllid. Potato psyllids resemble small cicadas. They are small, black insects with white stripes on their heads and mid-section and straw-like mouthparts that they insert into the plant to drink its sap.

While the pathogen can alter the insect behavior slightly, its biggest impact comes from its transmission to host plants. After a psyllid feeds on a plant that is affected by the disease, the pathogen is passed to the potato through the psyllid’s saliva during the feeding process. It doesn’t take long for an infected potato plant to deteriorate and die.

“Growers use insecticide applications to reduce populations of the potato psyllids,” said Rodney Cooper, research leader at the Agricultural Research Service’s (ARS) Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research unit (TTFVRU) in Wapato, WA. “The use of insecticides is challenging because potato psyllids enter potato fields from weedy host plants. It’s difficult to predict when potato psyllids will arrive in potato fields and whether they carry the zebra chip pathogen.”

Cooper is part of a team of ARS researchers that is working to solve the problem of discovering where the psyllid hides before attacking potato fields.

“This project uses molecular gut content analysis to identify the plants that psyllids previously fed upon,” Cooper explained. “We use this method to identify the insects’ dietary histories, how they moved around the landscape before they were captured, and plant species from which they acquired the zebra chip pathogen.”

Not all potato psyllids carry the pathogen; the problem is finding the infected pests so that farmers can treat their crops effectively. There is currently no cure, so stopping the spread is the only way to save potato crops.

Kylie Swisher Grimm, plant pathologist with TTFVRU, recently developed improved methods to screen large numbers of potato psyllids captured throughout Washington State for the zebra chip pathogen so that growers can make informed management decisions based upon the presence or absence of the pathogen.

“Well-timed [application of] insecticides is the key,” Swisher Grimm said. “A grower wants to minimize the cost associated with applying insecticides, but also doesn’t want to suffer yield and quality losses at the end of the season.”

Swisher Grimm said that psyllids are captured and tested weekly so that farmers can have the latest information on the whereabouts of zebra chip infestation.

Collecting sample psyllids isn’t difficult because researchers know they tend to live in the weedy areas around potato fields. There are, however, many challenges to overcome, including the discovery of new pathogen variants, other insect carriers, and that the locations of the zebra chip pathogen change from year to year.

Other zebra chip intervention strategies include finding and breeding disease-resistant potato lines and finding natural predators of potato psyllids to control the insects prior to their arrival in potato fields.

“In the nearly two decades of research, in collaboration with university entomologists and pathologists, we have made significant advances in our understanding of the disease, and this information is routinely provided to growers for incorporation into their integrated pest management programs,” Swisher Grimm said.

The ARS research into zebra chip can also be applied to other crops.

“Potato psyllid and zebra chip have become a modelsystem for potato vectors and bacterial plant pathogens,” Cooper said. “For example, we are now using many of the methods we developed to learn more about the ecology and management of beet leafhopper, a vector of a pathogen that causes potato purple top.”

Seeds and transplanting tips

Nourish young plants well during growth spurts. Water with diluted water-soluble fertilizers or manure tea from a watering can, or side-dress the plants with compost.

Weeds rob seedlings of nutrients, so constant weeding is important to ensure sturdy plants.

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Prevention of egg eating in chickens

Penn State Extension

Egg eating by hens is a habit which is extremely difficult, if not impossible, to break. It is important you manage your facilities so the hens never taste a broken egg.

Prevention management practices include

Reduce Traffic in the Nesting Area.

Egg breakage is a major reason why hens start eating eggs. Excessive traffic and eggs in the nesting area increase the chance of egg breakage. Some precautions include:

Provide one 12” x 12” nest for every 4–5 hens in your flock. Never have less than 4 nesting boxes. Always locate the nests at least 2 feet off the ground and at least 4 feet away from the roosts.

Discourage floor nesting. Identify dark corners and sheltered areas underneath shelving or objects. These may be more attractive to hens than nest boxes.

Determine where the hens prefer to nest. A popular nesting space can quickly fill with eggs which may break against each other. If many hens continue to choose the same nest, increase how often eggs are collected throughout the day to prevent too many eggs in one space.

Keep 2 inches of clean, dry nesting material in the nests at all times. Many eggs are cracked due to a lack of protective padding in nesting boxes. Some small producers will cut carpet pads and place in the bottom of their nests to prevent breakage. However, these can easily become contaminated with bacteria and harbor mites if not removed and cleaned or replaced frequently.

Remove all broody hens from the laying area. Broody hens reduce nesting space and cause more traffic in the remaining nests. Other hens may also lay their eggs where the broody hen is, increasing risk of breakage from too many eggs. Do not scare hens out of nest boxes. They may accidentally break eggs on their way out.

Nutrition

Eggs contain high-quality protein and fats that can be enticing to hens who are not already receiving proper nutrition. Provide a complete ration formulated to meet the needs of laying hens. Feedstuffs like scratch grains and cracked corn are not appropriate on their own. It may be tempting to mix these with a complete ration to decrease costs, but this will dilute the ration, throw off the nutrient balance, and ultimately provide less of what the hens need.

Strong eggshells, which can be improved through nutrition, will help prevent egg eating by preventing egg breakage. To keep the shells strong, feed a complete ration and provide free-choice oyster shells or limestone as a calcium supplement. Do not mix extra calcium directly into the feed. Provide it in a separate pan that hens cannot climb or dustbathe in, or top-dress a complete ration when needed.

Never feed the hens used eggshells without drying and smashing them to very fine particles. If the hen can associate the shell with the egg, she will be encouraged to pick at the fresh eggs in the coop.

Reduce Stress

Don’t use bright lights in your coops, especially near the nesting area. Bright light increases nervousness and picking habits.

Do not scare the hens out of the nesting boxes. The sudden movement can break eggs in the box, which can give the hens a taste of egg and promote egg eating.

Prevent egg eating by other animals.

Predators such as snakes, skunks, rats, weasels, and others will eat eggs and leave egg residue which can cause your flock to develop a taste for eggs, too.

If your hens are eating eggs, they will usually have dried yolk on their beaks and sides of their heads. Holes pecked in eggs can be a sign of attempted egg eating. Egg-eating hens can also be seen scouting the nests for freshly laid eggs to consume.

If you do catch an egg eater, cull her from the flock at once. Egg eating is a bad habit that will multiply the longer you let it continue. If one hen starts eating eggs, other hens will soon follow. Roosters can also become egg eaters.

Prevention is the only proven treatment. Collect eggs often and early in the day. Most hens will lay before 10:00 a.m. each morning. The longer the eggs are in the barn, the better the chance they will break or be eaten.

Seeds and transplanting tips

Water the compost by standing the tray or pot in water halfway up its sides. Remove from the water when the compost is well wet.

Soil erosion threat increasing with climate change

By Sjoerd Willem Duiker, Processor of Soil Management and Applied Soil Physics

Soil erosion remains a top priority for sustainable crop production in the United States, with average soil erosion rates by wind and water still at 4.63 tons per acre per year (T/A/ yr), and total soil loss of 1.70 billion tons on a national level (data from USDA-NRCS 2017 National Resources Inventory [PDF]). Expressed in dollars at a minimum price of $7.50 per ton of topsoil, this represents a whopping $12.75 billion annual economic loss to farmers, which equals about a quarter of the total U.S. soybean crop value (25% of 4 billion tons @ $12/bu).

These numbers don’t include tillage erosion, which causes topsoil translocation from high to low spots in a field. A recent remote sensing study concluded that one-third of the Corn Belt has lost the entire A horizon (the organic matter enriched topsoil layer), due to tillage erosion, causing an average 6% crop yield reduction and an estimated annual economic loss of $2.8 billion.

The challenges of soil erosion are not likely to become less. The Fifth National Climate Assessment, published by the U.S. Global Change Research Program in 2023, documents the changes in the climate in the Northeast, defined as the area from Maine in the north to Maryland in the south and West Virginia and Pennsylvania in the west. The assessment shows a trend of increasing precipitation in the Northeast. Most importantly, intensive precipitation events are increasing. For example, the number of events with >3 inches/day of precipitation showed an average 62% increase between 1958 and 2018, while events >5 inches/day increased 103%. Further, the climate is warming, especially in the winter. This means fewer days that the soil is frozen, and more precipitation that falls as rain instead of snow.

These trends are expected to continue in the future, with important implications for soil erosion and conservation. As discussed in a previous article, Soil Erosion Continues to be a Concern in Pennsylvania, average soil erosion from Pennsylvania cropland is still estimated to be more than 4 T/A/yr, a rate that is not sustainable.

What is worse, we tend to present erosion rates as annual averages, but in reality, most erosion occurs during high-intensity rainstorms. This was illustrated in a study in corn-soybean rotation without cover crop in Greensboro, North Carolina, where more than half of the erosion in a 6-year period occurred during one week of highly erosive precipitation events. In this study on a (sandy) clay loam with modest 4–6% slopes, average soil loss was 33.3 T/A/yr with spring chisel/disking, and 1.2 T/A/yr with no-till. However, 135 T/A was lost from the chisel/disk treatment in one week in July 1997.

This study is another reminder of the importance of keeping our soils covered permanently. Some have suggested that rotational tillage is no big deal because on average the soil is covered most of the time. However, if the soil happens to be loosened by tillage and without cover at a time when high-intensity rainstorms hit the area, our efforts might all be in vain with apocalyptic soil loss in very short periods of time. For that reason, continuous no-tillage systems with permanent organic cover are essential to preserve our soils.

How colostrum works, why calves need it, and what to do if they aren’t getting it

By Lindsay Waechter-Mead, DVM, Nebraska Extension

The number of calves in North America that fail to receive adequate colostrum ranges from 11%-31%. This article will review key points on colostrum management to ensure calves are set up for success from the beginning of life.

Why do calves need colostrum?

The placenta is unique in the bovine because it stops maternal and fetal blood supplies from mixing. This separation prevents immunoglobulins from being transferred to the fetus prior to birth. Immunoglobulins are a class of proteins that act as antibodies to protect the immune system from disease. Without the transfer of protective antibodies from the dam to the calf, the calf is at risk for preweaning morbidity and mortality. Failure of passive transfer has also been shown to have a negative effect on weaning weights and average daily gain in the feed yard.

What exactly is colostrum?

Colostrum is the first milk produced by the dam. It contains immunoglobulins, specifically IgG which is derived from the dam’s blood serum. This process begins several weeks before calving and peaks

Beef Educator around 1-3 days before birth. In addition to IgG, colostrum also contains white blood cells, such as neutrophils and leukocytes, that help further protect the calf from pathogens while also providing the necessary energy and protein required for neonatal nutrition and vigor. Colostral vitamins A and E play a vital role in immune stimulation and antioxidant properties.

How much colostrum does a newborn calf need?

Previous studies have shown that calves require at least 150 g of IgG for immune protection, with recent research suggesting 200-300g as ideal. Several factors can influence the quality of colostrum, including dam nutrition, body condition score, and age of the dam. Older cows usually have higher quality and quantity of colostrum than heifers. Researchers have shown calves born to heifers with a body condition score of 5-6 stood faster and had higher levels of IgG than calves born to BCS 3-4 heifers. As reference, a healthy beef cow with at least BCS 5 should produce approximately 95 g

CONTINUED ON PAGE C11

BQA and BQAT workshops

By Jesse Fulton, Director of Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance.

Nebraska Extension and Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance will offer Beef Quality Assurance and Beef Quality Assurance Transportation Certification workshops statewide in May, October, and December. The BQA and BQAT programs educate beef producers and transporters on animal health best management practices, proper stockmanship, and proper animal welfare guidelines.

“Beef cattle producers, who are committed to producing a quality, wholesome, safe beef and beef products for consumers, are encouraged to attend to stay up to date on BQA practices,” said Jesse Fulton, Director of Nebraska Beef Quality Assurance. “By becoming or staying BQA and BQAT certified, you are an integral part of beef’s positive story to consumers. A story that can increase their understanding - and confidence - in how you and your operation are raising and transporting an animal that is fit to enter the beef supply chain.”

Upcoming workshops will be held on May 20 in Scottsbluff, May 21 in Chadron, May 22 in Bassett, and May 23 in North Platte. All workshops will begin at 4 p.m., and pre-registration is required.

BQA and BQAT certifications are valid for three years, and certification will be necessary sometime this year for those with training prior to 2021. The certification fee is $20 per person or a flat fee of $100 for operations that bring five or more people.

Attendees will need to register online at bqa.unl.edu or by calling the Panhandle Research and Extension Center at 308632-1230. For all other inquiries, contact Nebraska BQA via email at nebraskabqa@unl.edu or call 308-633-0158.

Stone man syndrome

Technically known as fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, this is a particularly perverse disease because it’s the result of a malfunction of the body’s own repair system. When nonaffected people injure fibrous tissue–things like muscles and tendons– their bodies jump into gear to fix the problem. But in the case of people with this disease, their bodies so too far and cause the injured tissue to ossify…or turn into bone. Real, actual bone. That means if you injure your wrist, your body responds by turning all the tendons, ligaments, and muscles in your wrist to bone, with the obvious result that you can’t move your wrist anymore. In the most extreme cases, the victim can be rendered completely immobile, hence the “stone man” name. There is no cure, and there’s not even any effective treatment; surgery to fix the ossified tissue just results in the body rushing to add more bone to the area.

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How colostrum works, why calves need it, and what to do if they aren’t getting it

CONTINUED FROM PAGE C10

of IgG per liter of colostrum.

Timing is everything.

The cells lining the small intestine are primed to readily absorb IgG at birth, but the timing window decreases significantly after 12 hours of life. Peak absorption happens in the first four hours post-calving and complete gut closure is observed at 24 hours of life. Temperature can affect gut absorption as well as metabolic acidosis, which occurs in calves that experienced difficult births. If you assisted in the birth of the calf, it is a good idea to ensure colostrum intake by milking the cow and offering it to the calf. Studies have shown minimal difference in IgG absorption when comparing nipple feeding versus esophageal tube feeding, therefore either method is correct. Tubing is usually required in calves born under distress because they lack the vigor to nurse.

Not all is created equal.

The best source of colostrum for a newborn calf is the mother. If that is not an option, the next option would be a donor cow from the same herd. Usually the older the cow, the better antibodies she can provide. Healthy cows with a solid vaccine history

Solar sailing to Mars

One of the ways that NASA may send humans to Mars is on a ship powered by “solar sails,” giant mirrors that harness the sun’s energy to propel the ship forward. This same principle could be used to heat Mars by reflecting sunlight to the surface. However, the mirrors would need to be about 150 miles wide to heat enough land to make it worthwhile. Mirrors that large couldn’t be assembled on Earth, so the alternative would be to assemble them in orbit out of “space junk”–floating debris from previous space missions, jettisoned fuel tanks, and old satellites (now that’s recycling). Once installed 300,000 miles above the Martian surface, they’d to trained on the frozen polar caps and begin melting the ice. This process would release CO2 into the atmosphere, theoretically triggering the greenhouse effect: CO2 absorbs the sun’s radiation, and having more of it would warm the planet and thicken the atmosphere.

are ideal. Colostrum can be stored in quart bags in the freezer for up to one year. It is important to remember that heat from the microwave can denature the IgG antibodies. A water bath with temperatures below 140° F is the best environment to thaw colostrum. There are several choices for freeze dried colostrum options. Always remember to read the labels! Colostrum supplements are intended to only supplement a calf that already received some colostrum. Most of the time these contain low levels of IgG and will not provide adequate protection alone. A true colostrum replacement needs to contain at least 150 g of bovine IgG as well as protein and fat for nutritional requirements. Double check to see how to mix the product to ensure proper absorption.

Being prepared is key. Maintaining a good relationship with your veterinarian throughout the year will provide added value to your operation during calving season.

#####

I forgot my cell phone when I went to the toilet yesterday. We have 245 tiles.

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The moving gases from the melting ice caps would also generate planet-wide dust storms, increasing the temperature even more. Eventually, Mars would be warm enough for liquid water to develop (but not freeze) at the poles. At this point, rockets filled with algae spores would be sent to this new ocean. The new algae would thrive in the water causing photosynthesis, a by-product of which is oxygen. Humans would still need to wear air tanks for a few millennia, but the amount of oxygen would increase as the temperature slowly rose.

The system is easy-to-install and can adapt to nearly any brand of equipment for a variety of applications. Its software is compatible with your iPad to provide a simple, user-friendly interface that displays all manifold runs and gives you an audible alert if a run becomes blocked or flow is reduced. Free iPad with purchase of a full system.

2024

Planning for the future can be a very frustrating process, especially in times of market volatility. Planning typically pays high dividends. For most farm and ranch managers, developing realistic commodity price expectations is one of the most difficult and complex tasks of the planning process.

To make the planning process easier, North Dakota State University Extension has released its 2024 short- and long-term agricultural planning price projections for North Dakota, says Ron Haugen, NDSU Extension farm management specialist.

The publication shows 2024 price projections for crops and livestock produced in the state and price estimates for future years. Price projections are given for the major crop commodities, including wheat, durum, oats, feed barley, malting barley, oil sunflowers, non-oil sunflowers, corn, soybeans, canola, flaxseed, winter wheat, dry beans, dry peas, lentils, alfalfa hay and mixed hay.

Price projections for livestock and livestock products include beef steers and heifers at various weights, cull cows, slaughter steers, slaughter hogs, slaughter ewes, slaughter lambs, feeder lambs and milk. The publication also provides historical prices as a reference.

“The estimated short-term planning prices should be used as a guide in setting price expectations for 2024 production,” Haugen says. “These planning prices can be used for preparing annual enterprise budgets and annual whole-farm cash flow projections. Cash flow projections are very critical with today’s tight margins.”

Haugen cautions, “Short-term prices should not be used for planning capital purchases or expansion alternatives that would extend beyond the next production year.”

Microplastics

From Penn State University

How much plastic do we use?

In one hour - Americans use 2.5 million plastic bottles. In one week - 10 billion plastic bags are used. In one lifetime - an average American will throw away 600 times their body weight.

Why is too much plastic a problem?

Scientists estimate that roughly eight million metric tons of plastic entered the ocean in 2010.

Many plastics are not recycled or disposed of properly.

The most discarded plastics in 2017 were food wrappers, beverage bottles, and straws.

Plastics do not degrade naturally but will break down into smaller particles called microplastics.

Plastic pollution shows up almost everywhere, including:

- On the ground and in soils

- In rivers and oceans

- In the air

- In our bodies

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are smaller than 5 millimeters in diameter (about the size of a popcorn kernel).

They fall into two categories:

Primary—tiny particles designed for commercial use (such as microbeads used as exfoliants in beauty products and toothpastes, and microfibers that shed from plastic-based textiles like polyester, rayon, nylon, and acrylic with each wash) that can easily pass through water filtration systems and enter our waterways.

Secondary—particles resulting from the breakdown of larger plastics like bottles.

What can we do about this problem?

1. Plan ahead

Bring refillable water bottles and refill them at a fountain.

Bring snacks in reusable containers.

Keep your own bags handy for when you go shopping.

2. Make smart choices

Choose reusable bottles made of stainless steel, not plastic.

Buy used when possible.

Choose reusable over disposable.

Choose natural-fiber clothing or a microfiber filter for your laundry.

Use natural mulches instead of plastic sheeting in your landscaping.

3. Avoid single-use items

Make use of reusable things as much as possible. If a single-use item is used, make sure to recycle it properly when possible.

When recycling is not an option, always carefully dispose of plastic waste. Carry it with you until you find an appropriate waste can that isn’t already overflowing.

4. Spread the word

Educate others about the importance of reducing and reusing.

Share practices that work for you!

What other actions can you take?

Organize and schedule community cleanups.

Urge your favorite restaurants to use reusable or compostable ware and packaging.

Work with your municipality to offer recycling events.

Let local businesses know that you don’t want single-use plastics.

Work with your local watershed groups to conduct citizen science research on local streams.

Educate others about plastic pollution and solutions—inspire by example!

Five freaky facts about… Minerals

• Gold is so rare that all of the pure gold produced in the last 500 years would fit inside a 60-foot-square cube.

• Most minerals are luminescent. When they’re exposed to radiation (like UV light from sunlight), they absorb and store it. When the mineral is then heated to at least 500°F, such as in a kiln, it releases that stored energy as light, and it glows.

• The diamond is the hardest natural mineral–four times harder than the next hardest, sapphire and ruby.

• When a body (human or otherwise) is buried, its bones absorb minerals, like fluorine from groundwater. A technique call fluorine dating is used to approximate the age of skeletal remains.

• The element uranium was first uncovered in 1798 from inside a mineral called pitchblende.

2020

Montana Department of Agriculture 2024 Pesticide Disposal Program

If you have any old pesticides - insecticides, herbicides, rodent poison or fungicides - laying around unused, the Montana Department of Agriculture will take them off your hands. The agency will hold waste pesticide collections in Western Montana in April. The collections are scheduled in Libby on April 10; Polson on April 11; Butte on April 12; Eureka on July 9; Clearwater Junction on July 10; and Butte on July 11. The disposal program is a non-regulatory, service progam that offers pesticide users the opportunity to dispose of unwanted and unusable pesticides in a safe and legal way that is economical and convenient. Disposal costs are free for the first 200 pounds and $1.00/lb. per pound for additional amounts over 200 pounds. Disposal by other services can cost 5 to 10 times more. Additional information and the required pre-registration forms are available by contacting Carli Davis in Richland at (406) 465-0531; mail to Dept. of Agriculture, Pesticide Disposal Program, 508 Prairie Dell Rd, Richland, MT 59260; email Carli.Davis@mt.gov; website http://agr.mt.gov/pesticidewaste-disposal-program

Geoscientist uses sensors to assess potential damage in dams

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communications

Water can be a life-giving source and a destructive one. With aging water infrastructure in the Panhandle of Nebraska, communities are becoming more aware of the latter.

Agriculture is an economic driver in the Panhandle, but the land receives comparatively little rainfall. So, early settlers of the area created a system of dams and irrigation canals. A century later, this infrastructure is aging and, in some circumstances, in need of repair.

A recent Nebraska Natural Resources District assessment of 2,969 dams in Nebraska found that about 148 dams could be classified as having high hazard potential, meaning failure or a malfunction would likely have significant economic impacts or even endanger people.

“Many of our (Panhandle) dams are earth-fill dams, constructed in small reservoirs and at the time didn’t need concrete dams,” said Mohamed Khalil, Nebraska Extension assistant geoscientist of applied

geophysics. The structure of an earthen dam can be compromised in many ways, from trees to animals. Khalil said the biggest problem can be a permeable layer inside or under the dam, creating a seepage zone.

In 2023, Khalil studied the seepage through the Standing Rock Dam No.1 in South Dakota. Seepage of the dam was detected by using geophysical methods, such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and self-potential (SP), which provide a convenient, cost-effective, rapid, nondestructive, and repeatable means to outline the location and define the magnitude of water seepage through hydraulic structures.

The sensors were removed after the study, but Khalil said they could create a sensor relay and monitor a dam or canal 24/7 if requested.

“The sensors can also be used with other types of infrastructures,” he said. “I completed a project with a sanitary district in South Dakota and discovered a large seepage zone that dissolved subsurface gypsum over time and created many types of sinkholes in the area.” Khalil said the sensors could also detect leaks at animal waste storage ponds and treatment lagoons.

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While infrastructure concerns are valid, Nebraska Extension can help. To learn more on ways to prevent and check for seepage, leaks, or even sinkholes resulting from subsurface erosion, contact Mohamed Khalil, Nebraska Extension assistant geoscientist of applied geophysics, by email at maboushanab2@unl.edu or call 308-633-0980.

#####

Kid going to his first day of school, he looks worried, his dad asks him, “What’s wrong?”

Nervous, the kid asks, “How long do I have to go to school for?”

“Until you’re 18”, says the father.

The kid nods, and thinks about this quietly. When they get to the front gates of the school, the kid says, “Dad, you will remember to come and get me when I’m 18, won’t you?”

#####

Charles Osborne of Anthon, Iowa, holds the title of “World’s Longest Hiccuper.” It started in 1922, hiccuping as often as 40 times per minute. Sometimes he hiccuped so hard his false teeth fell out. In 1987–nearly 70 years later–the hiccups stopped.

#####

There’s a sport called “squirrel fishing,” in which participants try to catch squirrels and lift them into the air by using a nut on a fishing pole.

Idaho ag sets records

Idaho agriculture overcame a struggling dairy market to record a second consecutive year of stellar cash receipts in 2023, propelled by record values of four of the state’s major crops, according to a new University of Idaho economic report.

Idaho agricultural cash receipts for the year totaled $11.157 billion, down by just 1% from the record-high number food producers celebrated in 2022, according to “The Financial Condition of Idaho Agriculture: 2023” by U of I agricultural economists Brett Wilder and Xiaoxue “Rita” Du.

commodity, dairy, which represents nearly a third of the state’s total agricultural cash receipts. Idaho still ranks as the nation’s No. 3 producer of dairy, with the value of its production declining to just over $3.5 billion in 2023. Evidencing Idaho dairymen’s struggles, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dairy Margin Coverage Program paid out in Idaho during every month of 2023.

After expenses, however, the report estimates farm profits will be down by 11% in 2023, at $3.769 billion. It’s a strong earnings total, nonetheless, following Idaho’s record 112% net farm income increase in 2022.

The 2023 report concludes the state’s farmers brought in record revenue from sugar beets, up by 25%; potatoes, up by 14%; cattle and calves, up by 18%; and barley, up by 17%.

The U of I economists presented their report during a series of Idaho Ag Outlook seminars, featuring leading industry experts and hosted December 12 in Idaho Falls, December 13 in Twin Falls, December 14 in Nampa and December 19 in Lewiston.

“It’s a very good number. We’re still near all-time highs,” Wilder said. “We’re down 11% year over year but the U.S. is down 17%, so we’re still outperforming the rest of the country. Farmers and ranchers did well in 2023.”

“We’ve had back-to-back excellent years to be in Idaho agriculture,” Wilder said. “We’ve had all-time record highs in four commodity groups.”

Offsetting some of those gains, however, was an 18% revenue drop from Idaho’s top

Increasing expenses were mostly driven by high interest rates. Farmers’ interest expenses are estimated to increase 42% to $714 million in 2023. Idaho farmers are also expected to take a hit regarding government payments, projected to decline by 22% to $153 million in 2023.

Looking ahead, economists predict growth in milk prices in 2024, primarily because the U.S. has the cheapest dairy prices, which should give producers an export boost. Idaho is also poised to add new dairy processing capacity.

Feed prices, both of hay and grain, are expected to decline. But Wilder expects the market for cattle and calves will be especially strong in 2024 due to the combination of extremely tight inventory and strong demand. Wilder believes cattlemen have begun keeping their animals much longer to increase carcass weight.

“If you own cows today and don’t have to go buy calves at the prices that are being asked, it’s a fun time to be in the beef industry,” Wilder said.

U of I agricultural economist Xiaoli Etienne, Idaho Wheat Commission Bill Flory Endowed Chair in Risk Management, predicts most farming inputs will hold steady or decline slightly in 2024. Gasoline is forecast to drop 2% in 2024, while diesel prices should remain the same or drop slightly. Farm chemical prices dropped by 20% in the past year and may continue to decline in 2024. The value of Idaho farmland and cropland rental rates should remain stable throughout the coming year. Electricity prices should hold steady or increase slightly, as should machinery costs.

Costs of corn, wheat and barley seed for planting should increase slightly. Hired labor costs are expected to climb by 2.04%. While the average loan rate rose 35% throughout the past year, the Federal Reserve is expected to begin cutting interest rates in 2024.

Wilder anticipates a more significant drop in agricultural cash receipts will occur in 2024.

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A berry regional and finicky fruit

By Ralph Baartholdt, University of Idaho Communications

Huckleberries are the northwest’s ultimate summer fruit and the signature ingredient in an array of delightful treats.

There is huckleberry pie, huckleberry ice cream, huckleberry syrup, huckleberry jam, jelly and taffy, huckleberry wine, and there are huckleberry pancakes, huckleberry muffins and huckleberries by the handful…

With all the hoopla surrounding wild, hand-picked huckleberries one wonders why the delightful berries aren’t cultivated to provide huckleberry fanatics with the festive fruit year-round.

Enter University of Idaho master’s student Nash Muckey, who was introduced to the regional fare when he joined a U of I research team that explores barriers to huckleberry propagation.

“Huckleberries grow well in the wild, but they’re hard to domesticate,” said Muckey an entomology student who spent part of last summer at several sites in north Idaho catching insects to learn which bugs the huckleberry bush relies on for pollination. “It’s just an iconic fruit in this region that is really important to people.”

Not only does the demand for the wild fruit keep growing, but the number of wild plants seems to be decreasing. Researchers want to learn why huckleberry is difficult to cultivate and draw a bead on why the plant is becoming less populous.

Muckey, who earned his undergraduate degree in ecology, will spend the next couple of years under the tutelage of Professor Stephen Cook, identifying what makes huckleberries grow better in the wild than in a greenhouse.

“The overall goal of this project is to identify which species of wild bees are important pollinators of huckleberry and to determine if we can improve pollination by applying certain soil amendments,” Cook said. “As we move forward, we will be investigating things like change in nectar quality or floral color which may be influenced by what is in the soil.”

The research seeks to unlock secrets that could help with huckleberry domestication and commercial production.

“During this first year of the project, we’ll collect and identify pollinating insects that are active in wild stands of huckleberry at multiple elevations,” Muckey said. “We also want to determine and compare the overall composition of the surrounding insect community.”

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After the first field season, Muckey, who caught insects around wild huckleberry bushes at eight sites in north Idaho with nets and traps, said bumblebees are a common pollinator of the plant.

“Populations of native bees are presumed to be the most important group of huckleberry pollinators,” Cook said.

Muckey’s research will identify the exact species of bees.

Muckey netted pollinators on sunny, windless days during the hours of peak activity usually between late morning and early evening. Specimens were placed into small plastic vials labeled with site, date, the plant species on which they were nabbed, and returned to the lab for identification. Two more field seasons will likely shed more light on which pollinators huckleberries attract the most.

A lower number of huckleberry may be attributed to denser forest canopies that have reduced sunlight reaching the forest floor, he said. One reason that the changing light conditions may impact fruit production is that they may lower the ability of pollinators to locate and use flowers.

The ’23 growing season was unusual in that huckleberry bushes in the study areas bloomed, were pollinated and produced berries a lot sooner than usual, Muckey said. Plants that normally produce berries in July were already laden with unripe berries by the end of June.

“They are kind of a finicky plant,” Muckey said. “Really prone to weather conditions.”

If the conditions support blooming, huckleberries will sprout flowers early, or they may wait until later in the season.

“It’s hard to predict,” he said.

The project has two more field seasons and next year’s field work includes planting treated huckleberry alongside wild bushes. Researchers will measure growth, including flowers and foliage, and compare pollinator visitation rates and fruit production of planted huckleberry with wild plants, based, in part, on soil.

“During the third year of the project, we will continue to measure and compare leaf chemistry and floral color between planted and wild plants as well as among soil treatments,” Muckey said.

A berry regional and finicky fruit

Cook anticipates the research may contribute to domestication of the fruiting plant, but with a dose of realism.

“There’s something in these forests that is just conducive to growing huckleberries,” he said.

Cook, a huckleberry enthusiast — “They are delicious,” he said — understands the importance of huckleberry to the region.

“It’s just a culturally important fruit native to the forests of the Pacific Northwest. Because it has not been domesticated for production purposes, the economic contribution of huckleberry comes from wild fruit and the demand for the fruit continues to increase while the supply has been decreasing,” Cook said.

Spring Fling

A couple of tears started falling, the pain was Too much to take, even in this big crowd. No one said anything about this, that I heard, Even with the talking getting so loud.

I heard some tell how before, this had also Happened to them, or someone they knew. They all had ideas of how to make the hurt Go away, and they’d tell me what I should do.

No one thought the lesser of the one who had Caused all this pain, even with him still being here. Myself, I have very little trust for this person Right now, so I don t want them to get near.

Maybe a lot of what happened between us

Two, took place because of where I was at. I’m glad you got a home run, but you could watch Where you throw your baseball bat!

Robert Lee Ridgway

Copyright 2003

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2023 Grizzly Bear Management Efforts

By FWP

Region 4 Conrad Office; Wesley Sarmento, Bear Management Specialist; Jack Austin, Bear Management Technician; Erin Fenger, Bear Conflict Prevention Technician; Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

• Hazed grizzly bears on 55 occasions with drones, 12 rubber slugs, and 39 cracker shells

• Erected 15 electric fences, and maintained over 14 other electric fences

• Grizzly presence confirmed for the first time in the Bear Paw Mountains

For the 2023 work season we again divided FWP Region 4 into three bear management districts – Conrad, Choteau, and a shared area. This year, the Conrad office again responded to calls in the area north of Muddy Creek to the Teton to the Missouri River. South of the Missouri River both the Conrad and Choteau offices shared the response. Thus, these summary statistics don’t provide the whole representation of bear management efforts across the region, but instead reflect the work coordinated by the Conrad field office. This is the second year of having a full-time carcass driver. Carcass hauling demand is steadily increasing – thus, we are having to decline requests outside of Teton and Pondera counties. The Northern Continental Divide grizzly population continues to expand in size and distribution. Observations of grizzlies are being reported annually over 100 miles east of the Rocky Mountain Front, although conflicts continue to be relatively low compared to FWP Region 1. Tolerance for bears in Region 4, however, is more limited relative to other places in Montana. Grizzly bears across the state remain federally protected through the Endangered Species Act, thus final management authority is under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Conflict Prevention and Response Efforts

• Participated in 25 organized education events involving over 869 people

• Provided bear spray training to over 380 people

• Donated ≥ 33 bear sprays and 4 air horns to the public

• Installed 9 new steel bear aware signs

• Communicated 485 bear aware alerts to individuals and initiated 3 town alert systems

• Answered 151 service requests, 287 contacts for information, 99 bear observation calls, & 55 bear complaints (567 phone contacts total, not including carcass driver calls)

• Helped film new FWP bear aware video for social media

• Gave out 4 bear resistant garbage cans

• Removed >55 dead animal carcasses

• Supervised carcass driver who picked up over 460 dead animals

• Cleaned up >12,000 lbs. of spilled grain

• Built and installed 3 reinforced grain bin doors

• Deployed ≥ 71 scare devices and 2 propane cannons

• Deployed ≥ 42 trail cameras

• Continued to build new agricultural bear education trailer

• Obtained 33 grizzly bear hair samples

• Completed and coauthored guard dog study with Dr. Julie Young (in review)

• Completed and authored scare device study (in revision)

• Completed and authored hazing methods study (in review)

• Was on-call for Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife for ~2 months, assisted with two bear captures and provided equipment support

Human-Grizzly Bear Complaint Summary

2023 was a relatively normal season with 55 complaints received about grizzly bears this year. Serious conflicts such as depredations, however, were down. Livestock loss caused by grizzlies totaled seven confirmed calves, one probable, and two that were attacked, but did not die until days later. There was one additional complaint of a bear chasing cattle. Furthermore, two bee stackyards were broken into by bears. We received three complaints of bears accessing spilled grain, and there was one conflict where a bear damaged a bin to access stored grain. Next, there were two instances of a bear acquiring unsecured garbage and one instance where a bear obtained unsecured corn/ apples. There were eighteen complaints where bears showed up too close to human residences. Bears being kicked off their mothers as yearlings continue to drive most complaints. Females with cubs of year also come near people to escape infanticide from adult males. A single male yearling bear caused most of the complaints of bears near homes. The yearling male was habituated to people and likely food conditioned, while it did not respond to management efforts (hazing and relocation), so it was euthanized. The remaining complaints were of other bears showing up in places unacceptable to people, but not obtaining attractants or near homes – those bears were successfully deterred and aversively conditioned through various management actions and conflict prevention methods. Complaints of bears not causing conflicts, getting attractants, or near homes (e.g., a bear in a field) were not included in tabulation.

Grizzly Bear Captures

1) In conjunction with USDA, an adult female bear was collared for proactive monitoring in a conflict hotspot area (5/2).

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2016 Peterbilt 367 500 hp Paccar, automatic, 46,000 lb rears with full lockers, 428,000 miles. $67,500

2007 Kenworth T800 Cummins ISX, 10 speed, steerable lift axle, wet kit. Coming In!

2007 Western Star 4900EX 515 hp Detroit, 13 speed, 3:42’s, wet kit, steerable lift axle, 850,000 miles. $47,500

2006 Load King 55 ton, hydraulic lowboy, 3+1, dropside 26-ft. deck. $67,500

2018 Cat 349F excavator, 11,000 hours, 84” clean up bucket, 54” rock bucket, hydraulic thumb, engine pre-heat. $137,500

(2) 2015 Smithco side dump pups with tarps. $35,000 each

1991 Beall 2 axle belly dump pup in good shape. $7500

2015 Genie 1930 electric scissorlift. $6000

2003 Kenworth W900L Cat 6NZ, 13 speed, steerable lift axle, 300,000 miles on motor. $52,500

2012 Kenworth T800 Cummins ISX 525 hp (deleted), 18 speed, disc brakes, steerable lift axle, 40,000 lb rears with full lockers, 628,000 miles. $59,500

2007 Volvo ECR58 mini excavator, hydraulic thumb, 2 buckets, 3100 hours. $35,000

2012 Kenworth T800 Cummins ISX 525hp, 18 speed, 20,000 lb. fronts, 46,000 lb. rears with full lockers. $75,000

2005 Moffett M5500 2700 hours. $19,500

2007 Kenworth T600 Cummins ISX, 18 speed, Studio sleeper, Very good running truck, 900,000 miles. $36,500

Cat 966B loader, enclosed cab, runs great!. $17,500

2017 Komatsu WA380-8 wheel loader, 4 yard bucket, hydraulic coupler, 3rd valve, ride control, 4 new tires. $99,500

PASTURE WANTED

For 230 cows, can lease in smaller lots. Also 800 ewes & lambs for pasture or grazing of noxious weeds. Will provide herder.

Call (406) 636-2731, Lavina, MT

EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

2005 Bourgault 5725 Disc Drill with 5440 TBH cart 63-ft., 10” spacing, recently new discs, 440 bushel, 3 meters, 2 Fans on cart. $45,000

2011 Riteway crop roller 45-ft. width, fold assist, No dents. $42,000

2010 MacDon FD70 Flex 35-ft. cross auger, CNH flagship and older style adapter, Very low acres, stored inside.

Call/text: Tom (406) 799-3183, Chester, MT

2023 Grizzly Bear Management Efforts

2) In conjunction with USDA, an adult female bear was collared for proactive monitoring in a conflict hotspot area (5/2).

3) In conjunction with USDA, an adult male bear was collared for proactive monitoring in a conflict hotspot area (5/25).

4) In conjunction with USDA, an adult female bear was recaptured for the fourth time and refitted with a collar for proactive monitoring in a conflict hotspot area (6/1).

5) A yearling male bear was preemptively relocated for coming near homes and not responding to hazing (6/2).

6) A yearling male bear was preemptively relocated for coming near homes and not responding to hazing (7/11).

7) A yearling male bear was preemptively relocated for coming near homes and not responding to hazing (7/11).

8) A yearling female bear was preemptively relocated (7/11) for coming near homes and not responding to hazing.

Known Grizzly Bear Mortalities

1) In conjunction with USDA, a yearling female was euthanized for livestock and other complaints in the area, while relocation sites were unavailable due to snow (3/13).

2) Yearling female bear was found dead – under investigation (6/7).

3) Subadult female was found dead – under investigation (8/4).

4) Yearling male was euthanized due to habituation that was not resolved with relo-

cation and numerous hazing events (8/24).

5) Adult female was found dead – under investigation (10/6).

Support for conflict prevention work was provided by Safari Club International Foundation Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation, Vital Ground Foundation, United States Fish and Wildlife Service, FWP, and Utah State University (Dr. Julie Young). We greatly appreciate USDA Wildlife Services – Skippy Sims, John/Kurt Miedtke, Glenn Hall, Kraig Glazier, and Logan Sinclair. Big thanks to our call coordinators for keeping communities informed. We also thank local and county law enforcement for their assistance. Thanks to the folks who communicate kindly and proactively prevent bears from coming near residences. Thanks to producers for their patience and allowing conflict prevention work. Additionally, we thank Cory Loecker, FWP biologists, wardens, maintenance crew, and support staff for their assistance. Thanks to the NCDE bear management team – John Waller, Jamie Jonkel, Chad White, Daniel McHugh, Brandon Kittson, Cecily Costello, Lori Roberts, Hilary Cooley, Ben Jimenez, Justine Vallieres, Eric Wenum, Amber Kornak, Sarah Zielke, Ali Morgan, Jennifer Fortin-Norus, et al. Thanks to Glacier Park and US Forest Service for relocation sites. We appreciate the collaborative efforts with Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife. Finally, a special thanks to Rock Creek Airedales for donating a dog.

Help for ag producers venturing into new and better markets

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to help agricultural producers maximize the value of their products and venture into new and better markets.

USDA is making the grants available under the Value-Added Producer Grants [lnks.gd] program. The grants help farmers and ranchers generate new products, create marketing opportunities, and increase their incomes through value-added activities.

Eligible applicants include independent producers, agricultural producer groups, farmer or rancher cooperatives, and majority-controlled producer-based business ventures.

USDA may award up to $75,000 for planning activities or up to $250,000 for working capital expenses related to producing and marketing a value-added agricultural product.

Planning activities may include conducting feasibility studies and developing business plans. Working capital expenses

may include costs associated with processing, marketing, advertising, inventory, and salaries.

USDA is particularly interested in applications that will advance Biden-Harris Administration priorities to:

Reduce climate pollution and increase resilience to the impacts of climate change through economic support to rural communities.

Ensure all rural residents have equitable access to Rural Development (RD) programs and benefits from RD-funded projects; and Help rural communities recover economically through more and better market opportunities and through improved infrastructure.

Applications for 2024 grants are now being accepted.

Paper applications must be postmarked and delivered by mail, email or in person to one of Montana’s six offices [lnks.gd] by 4:30 p.m., Mountain Time, April 16, 2024. Electronic applications are due by 9:59 p.m. Mountain Time, April 11, 2024.

Rachel Prevost, Stan Bates, Sonya McLean, Eli Hofer, and Makae Nack were active participants in Jan Wolery’s ‘Building your Brain for Business’ class at Montana’s Next Generation Conference. Photo by Kari Lewis.

2014

Allison

New Leader L4000 G4, 14-ft. stainless steel dry

box, twin spinner, all hydraulic, New Leader stainless steel insert, Ag Leader monitor, 4253 hours. $124,500

2016 TerraGator 8400B AirMax Precision 2, Raven Viper 4, 3678 hours $148,000

2014 TerraGator TG8400 Airmax Precision 2, 70-ft. boom, granular bins, Viper Pro, autosteer, 3500 hours $123,500

2009 TerraGator 8203 floater, Air Max Precision, 70-ft. stainless steel boom, electric roll tarp, Ravin Viper Pro controller, Smart Trax auto steer, 3948 hours $77,500

2012 Vector 300, Cummins, Allison automatic, New Leader L4000 G4 spreader box, twin spinner, all hydraulic, stainless steel insert, Raven Viper Pro monitor, 4561 hours. Free delivery $72,000

2016 Case IH Titan 3540 3 wheel floater, 810 air delivery box, deluxe cab, red leather seat, 6 speed Allison automatic transmission, 8.7L Case IH FLP engine, 1512 hours, 1050/50 R32 front and rear tires, Raven Viper 4, Agri-Cover roll tarp $168,500

2011 TerraGator 8204, Cat diesel engine, AirMax Precision, 70ft. stainless steel boom, Raven SmarTrax, Viper Pro, 4648 hours. Exceptionally clean truck! $74,000

2015 Case IH Titan 4530 Dry Floater, Flex-Air 810 - VRT dry flow system, 70-ft. boom, Raven Viper Pro, 2922 hours $148,000

2012 John Deere 4940 sprayer, 1200 gallon stainless steel liquid system, 120-ft. boom, stainless steel chemical inductor, Vogelsang A17387 front fill, 710/70R42 flotation tires, 4421 hours.......$119,000

2018 John Deere F4365 with AB485 twin bin air system, 70-ft. booms, Gen 4 Integrated Display, tarp, Lincoln lube system, LED field lights $224,500

2017 TerraGator TG8400B dry floater, diesel engine, CVT transmission, AirMax Precision dry air flow system, 70-ft. stainless steel boom, single product, electric roll over tarp, Viper 4, autosteer, 3245 hours. $154,000

2015 TerraGator 8400B spreader, 3222 hours, AGCO Power 8.4L 6-cylinder, diesel, CVT transmission, Raven Viper Pro, New Leader L4000G4 MultiApplier dry box. $151,000

2017 John Deere F4365 Hi-Capacity Nutrient Applicator, 3435 hours, John Deere 9.0L diesel engine, IVT transmission, AutoTrac guidance, Starfire 6000 receiver, DN495 MultiApplier. $198,000

Case IH Titan floater, diesel engine,

transmission,

spreader

2016 RoGator RG1100B, AGCO 8.4L diesel hydrostatic, New Leader L4258 G4 MultApplier – 5’ insert, dual spinners, 710/70R38 flotation tires, adjustable axles, Raven GPS, Viper 4, 2200 hours. $122,000

2016 RoGator 1300B sprayer, AGCO diesel, hydro-static transmission, 1300 gallon stainless steel tank, 120-ft. boom, 20” spacing, 650/65R42 tires, fenders, Viper 4 monitor, 3143 hours. $142,000

2000 International 9100 with Simonsen top auger tender, Cummins diesel engine, 9 speed transmission, tandem axle full screw, air lift tag & pusher axle, air ride suspension, Simonsen Flo-Max stainless steel hydraulic 6 compartment dry tender box, overhead discharge auger, electric roll tarp, 620,471 miles.

2015 RBR Venturi 350, 3302 hours, Case 810 70-ft. air boom, triple bin, 4WD, Viper 4, Auto Steer $138,500

2015 Case 4530, 2384 hours

2016 Case IH Titan 4540 floater, 1938 hrs, Case 810 air box, triple bin, 70-ft. boom, 410 hp, 8.7L

Case diesel, 6 speed Allison Auto, Viper 4, Auto Steer, roll tarp. Incredibly clean, rust free..$187,000

2019 Case Titan 4540 Case 810 air box, 70-ft. boom, 410 hp, 8.7L

Case diesel, 6 speed Allison Auto, Viper 4 monitor, Auto Steer, roll tarp. Incredibly clean, rust free truck.

2014 TerraGator TG8400 Airmax

Precision 2, 70-ft. stainless steel booms, granular coap bins, electric roll-tarp, Raven Viper Pro Controller, auto steer, air ride cab, 3345 hours. $129,500

2015 TerraGator TG9300B

AGCO diesel engine, CVT transmission, heat, air conditioning, air ride cab, Soilection Four Bin dry air flow system, 70-ft. boom, AgriCover SRT-2 spool electric roll tarp, Dakota Micro Inc. backup camera, Raven lightbar, Raven GPS; Raven Viper Pro monitor. Must see truck, amazingly clean, and well cared for. 4350 hours.

2018 Case Titan 4540 floater, 2745 hours, Case FLX 810 triple bin air bed, 70-ft. boom, variable rate capability, Raven Viper 4 controller, section control, Auto Steer, electric roll tarp. $194,500

Hyundai HL730-9A wheel loader, EROPS, Cummins, heat/air conditioning, AM/FM radio, 8-ft. bucket, 2.5 cubic yard capacity, 17.5R25 tires, operating weight 23,500 lbs, rear view camera, 5684 hours.

2011 Merritt Quickveyor tender trailer, 4 compartment, belly belt and rear discharge belt, hydraulic drives, electric roll tarp. $32,000

2017 John Deere 4038 sprayer, 120-ft. booms, 3244 hours. $189,000

2019 TerraGator TG8400C, 3446 hours, diesel engine, Viper 4 monitor, Airmax Precision 2 bed. 70-ft. stainless steel booms, Micro bin with yellow & white rollers, electric roll tarp. $178,500

2004 Willmar 24 ton sideshooter, B-B dry tender trailer, side discharge auger, all hydraulic, roll over tarp, tandem axle, cheater axle, Ridewell suspension.$34,000

2012 John Deere 5085M 2WD, PTO, 2 hydraulic remotes, 85 hp diesel, 900 hours $29,500 1969 Lubbock NH3 transport trailer, 10,400 gallons, Blackmer pump. 5 to choose from $45,000 each

2020 RBR Venturi 400, 1890 hours, Case IH Flex Air 810 triple bin, 70-ft. boom, Raven Viper 4, adjustable axles, 4 wheel steer, 4 wheel drive, electric roll tarp. $249,500

2018 Timpte dry trailer, 40-ft. aluminum hopper trailer, hydraulic dry tender belt can be run off truck hydraulic wet kit or self contained gas engine, sight glass windows, tandem axle, air ride suspension.

1987 Willmar Loadrunner 16ton tender, mounted on Great Dane pup frame, air brakes, Kohler powered hydraulic system, roll tarp. $18,500

Students undertake surgery, flight, and more

By Chabella Guzman, PREEC communications

Fifth graders flooded the halls of the Panhandle Research Extension and Education Center in Scottsbluff on February 7, when the Nebraska Extension held its second annual Incredible STEM Day. The day featured hands-on activities incorporating science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

“We put (activities) together through the Panhandle 4-H team,” said Nathan Rice, Nebraska Extension 4-H educator. “We had a couple last year we didn’t like and replaced them with two new ones, microbits and coding drones.”

The students from Mitchell Elementary, Northfield Elementary, and Lincoln Elementary, both of Gering, rotated between hour-long workshops studying drones, microbits, mineral properties, and biomedical technology. Fifth graders in the microbits workshop worked with small computers, sensors, and LED lights to create moving animals made of cardboard.

“We wanted the day to offer things schools couldn’t normally get. Such as high-end technology using things most schools don’t have and capturing all of the engineering design processes in stem categories and things they hadn’t seen before.” Rice said.

In three of the four workshops, computers and technology were used, but the students also flexed their mental computers in the Mineral Properties session.

“I really wanted to create a lesson that allowed youth to feel like scientists and do an experiment. Geology was a course that I loved in college and to teach. In this lesson, we spend time talking about minerals, experimenting with their chemical and physical properties, and then youth use their data to try to identify the minerals correctly. We also spend time talking about how these minerals form rocks, particularly rock formations in Western Nebraska,” said Sarah Paisley, 4-H educator for Garden and Morrill Counties.

Students identified minerals such as talc, biotite, magnetite, and more through their unique properties. They also explained the minerals’ makeup and utilized a decision tree to identify minerals.

Rice said both the teachers and the kids found the day a blast.

“The teachers said it was the first time coding for the students, and I saw them (students) working to the last minute of the sessions, which is good to see they’re not bored but engaged to the last minute.”

‘Vaquero’

‘Vaquero’

Seeds and transplanting tips

Seedlings need a lot of light. If they receive insufficient light they become tall and spindly or “leggy.”

Place near a large window that receives full sun. In dull weather, artificial light should be used as well. Use bulbs recommended for growing plants and place them 12” (30 cm) above the seedlings. If using only artificial lighting, the lights will need to be kept on at least fourteen hours a day. Fluorescent tubes don’t produce as much heat, reducing the chance of seedlings drying out quickly.

Performing laparoscopic surgery, Jackson Freeling, front right, keeps an eye on the screen to guide him. Meanwhile, Giovanni Gomez, back right, and others get their tools ready for surgery. Photo by Chabella Guzman.

Health benefits of eggs

Freedom Range Hatchery

Are you searching for a natural and nutritious solution to improve your health? You may find yourself battling with weight loss goals, struggling to find a sustainable approach that truly works for you. Or perhaps you’re seeking ways to support brain health and enhance cognitive function. It can be disheartening to navigate through the excessive amount of information out there, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn.

Look no further than the humble egg! Eggs have long been praised for their incredible health benefits, making them an essential addition to any well-rounded diet.

1. Rich in Vitamins

When it comes to nutritional powerhouses, eggs take the spotlight with their impressive vitamin content. The nutritional value of eggs is packed with essential vitamins like vitamin A, vitamin E, and B vitamins such as B12, riboflavin, and folate. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vision and supporting immune function, while vitamin E acts as a potent antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage. B vitamins, on the other hand, are involved in various processes within your body, including energy production and the maintenance of a healthy nervous system.

Imagine starting your day with a nutrient-dense breakfast consisting of a delicious omelet made with fresh eggs from your own farm or backyard. Not only will you be getting a wholesome meal when you eat eggs, but you’ll also be fueling your body with these essential vitamins. With just one serving of eggs, you can provide your body with a significant portion of the recommended daily intake of these vital nutrients, setting the stage for a vibrant and energetic day ahead.

2. A Protein Powerhouse

Protein is often referred to as the building block of life, and eggs are a prime example of why this is true. They are considered one of the best sources of high-quality protein available. Each egg contains approximately six grams of protein, complete with all the essential amino acids needed for optimal muscle growth, repair, and overall health.

Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance your performance or simply someone who wants to maintain muscle

CONTINUED ON PAGE C30

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There are 195 recognized countries in the world. Only 76 of them do not have a McDonald’s.

5-Plex • $375,000

5-Plex right along Central in Malta, Montana. Great investment opportunity! 4 units have 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom, 1 of the units being larger with 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. All 5 units sit on an unfinished basement. Great rental history, very rarely vacant, and if so, there is normally a waiting list. There is no central air. Hot water heat with each unit having their own boiler. #115SPB

We have very qualified buyers for Smaller Irrigated Places and/or Larger Ranches. Give us a call TODAY and let us get your property SOLD!

Set amidst the unique landscape of the Missouri River Breaks, these lots offer a blank canvas for your outdoor dreams. These parcels are a rare opportunity to shape your own piece of paradise, surrounded by the rugged charm of canyons, coulees, roll-ing hills, and tree’s. Whether you’re drawn to hiking, camping, hunting or simply relishing the quietude of unspoiled landscapes, seize the opportunity to own a piece of this captivating and unique Montana terrain.

#219LH • $600,000

TILLAGE EQUIPMENT FOR SALE

-Morris 8900 Chisel Plow, 56-ft, includes 1.25” Honey Bee rod $5,000/offer

-Melroe 501 Chisel Plow, 37-ft basic, includes extensions to 43-ft $2500/offer

-Einbock Aerostar tine weeder, 40-ft, 3 pt $15,000/offer

Jeff: 406-680-6091 • Inverness, MT

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Being dehydrated can be a mine field of symptoms. It can cause headaches, nausea, dry mouth and light-headedness. By having regular water throughout the day, this will ensure the body does not become dehydrated.

Health benefits of eggs

CONTINUED FROM PAGE C29 mass and support their body’s foundation, incorporating eggs and egg yolks into your diet is a no-brainer. The protein in eggs is easily absorbed by the body, making it an efficient choice for meeting your daily protein needs and often making eggs good for weight loss. By relying on eggs from your own chickens, you can ensure that you’re getting a high-quality protein source that supports your optimal body composition and muscle protein synthesis.

3. Positive Effect on Overall Well-Being

When it comes to overall well-being, eggs truly shine. They offer a wide array of health benefits that go beyond just providing essential nutrients. For instance, the health benefits of eggs have been shown to support heart health by positively influencing blood cholesterol levels. Contrary to popular belief, the cholesterol found in eggs does not have a significant impact on blood cholesterol levels for most individuals. In fact, research suggests that moderate egg consumption can help improve the ratio of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, thereby reducing the risk of heart disease.

Moreover, eggs and brain health go hand-in-hand. Eggs are beneficial for brain health due to their choline content. Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in cognitive function and the development of cell membranes. When you eat eggs, you can provide your brain with the necessary fuel to stay sharp and focused throughout the day, making the benefits of eggs good for you and your family.

4. Improve Your Cholesterol and Triglycerides

If you’re concerned about your dietary cholesterol and triglyceride levels, eggs may hold the answer you’ve been searching for. Studies have shown that incorporating eggs into your diet can actually help reduce blood triglyceride levels, especially when consumed as part of a balanced diet. Lower levels of triglycerides contribute to a healthier cardiovascular system and reduce the risk of heart disease.

What’s more, eggs are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to numerous health benefits, including improved heart health. These healthy fats can help lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and support healthy blood vessel function, making eggs good for you.

5. Affordable and Satisfying

In addition to being a nutritional powerhouse, eggs are incredibly affordable and versatile. Whether you prefer scrambled, boiled, or poached, eggs offer a simple and convenient way to satisfy your hunger while providing a range of health benefits.

Compared to other protein sources like red meat, eggs tend to be more budget-friendly without compromising on nutritional value. And while eggs are affordable in the store, you can’t be sure of the farming practices used to produce those eggs. Why not take the guesswork out of what you’re feeding your family and raise your own chickens for the health benefits of eggs? Whether you prefer duck eggs or chicken eggs, we have the baby chicks and ducklings you need to enjoy fresh eggs any day of the week.

Junior Ag Loans available

For over 40 years, Montana youth have participated in the Montana Department of Agriculture’s (MDA) Junior Agriculture Loan Program. Young people under 21 years of age, active in Montana agriculture, are eligible for loans up to $8,500 and are encouraged to apply.

“With the average age of farmers and ranchers being nearly 60 years old, it’s important we do what we can to encourage the next generation to stay involved in agriculture,” said Director Christy Clark. “The Junior Ag Loan Program is a great way for young producers to access financing for a project they are passionate about.”

The Montana Junior Agriculture Loan Program was developed to assist rural youth in developing or expanding agribusiness projects. Projects can involve crop and livestock production, custom farming, marketing and distribution, processing, and other financially feasible activities. Program benefits can far exceed the actual loan for active participant. Many young men and women unable to secure conventional financing due to age, or inadequate collateral or have used the program to establish financing experience and to advance their project’s monetary value.

Applications for the program and other information, can be found on the Department’s website at: https://agr.mt.gov/ Junior-Agriculture-Loans.

Post-calving nutrition for the young females

By: Sydney Vanderhoff, SDSU Extension Beef Nutrition Field Specialist

Calving season has started or is quickly approaching for most producers. While the focus has been on getting the cows to calving, shifting focus to post-calving nutrition is critical. Nutrition post-calving is important, as cows are at their greatest nutrient demands to support lactation and repair the reproductive tract (see the article, Beef Cow Nutrition During Calving and Early Lactation to learn more).

First-Calvers

First-calvers often require more attention following calving. They require more labor and higher-quality feeds; however, by investing the time in these young cows, they often stay in the herd longer and are productive cows. The smaller size of bred heifers or a three-year-old cow compared to mature cows means that she is less able to compete with the older cows for feed

in early-season grasses could contribute to lower fertility rates in females placed on those pastures near breeding time. As always, be sure to follow a good vitamin and mineral program and ensure fresh water is always available to the herd. resources. Therefore, the energy needs of these young females are not met, and they lose body condition from the time of calving to breeding season, which can lead to poor reproductive performance. This is often why it is suggested that the younger cows should be managed and fed separately from the mature cows before and after calving.

How do first-calvers differ from mature cows at the same stage of gestation or lactation?

In fact, they are not much different at all; however, the percent of the diet that needs to be protein or energy is different among both groups. To meet requirements, first-calf heifers should be supplemented or fed diets ~10 to 15% more protein and energy per unit of body weight than the diets fed to mature cows.

Cows with their first calf will make less milk than older cows, but nutrient requirements are still greater because they are still growing.

Remember it is important to provide high-quality forages to the first-calvers. Having a proper feeding plan will help to maintain adequate body condition or provide needed weight gain.

Use caution if feeding excessive amounts of nutrients before or after calving. Overfeeding protein during the breeding season and early gestation may lead to decreased fertility. The combination of high levels of degradable protein and low energy concentrations

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An almost hysterical man calls 911 and yells, “Please come quickly! Kailey is pregnant and her labor started now, it’s really intense!” “Is this her first child?” asks the operator. “No you idiot! It’s her husband!”

Figure 1. Protein and energy requirements for beef cows throughout the production cycle depending on body weight and milk production. Adapted from the National Research Council.

UW’s Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management Program

The University of Wyoming’s Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management (REWM) program is one of 14 accredited rangeland ecology and

graduate degree programs in western North America.

The REWM program, housed in the UW Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, offers unique opportunities for hands-on learning and applied research in rangeland systems.

educational experience in rangeland ecology and management,” says Jeff Beck, program lead and professor of ecosystem science and management. “Our students are highly sought after.”

First

The program is accredited by the Society for Range Management, a professional society and conservation organization for land managers, scientists, educators, students, ranchers and conservationists.

“Accreditation with the Society for Range Management means that our program meets seven standards that support a rigorous, sustainable educational program that provides our students with a quality

Degree requirements include 18 credit hours in core topics such as plant identification, vegetation management, herbivore management, and rangeland monitoring and assessment. The program also includes courses in soil science, remote sensing, plant ecophysiology, animal biology and statistics.

In addition to classroom learning, many students participate in faculty-led research projects and field-based summer internships.

Many REWM graduates go on to work with federal and state land management agencies like the Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and Wyoming Game and Fish Department. Others pursue careers with environmental consulting firms, private ranches, nongovernmental organizations and companies involved in the reclamation of disturbed lands.

HERE’S WHAT GROWERS ARE SAYING: (More testimonials available on our website)

“We normally plant dryland alfalfa the third week in May, but spring moisture allowed us to plant April 23. By 1st cut the 360-D was up to my shirt pockets.”

Steve Garrett - Casper, WY

“We get 2 Ton in a bad water year and 4 Ton in a good water year on dryland with 360-D.”

“The best dryland alfalfa ever raised. The leafiness was surprising.”

Cal Oliveras - Albin, WY

Fred Walters - 40 Mile Colony / Lodge Grass, MT

“We love that alfalfa! We get 2 cuts on dryland, and we are ordering for the fourth time.”

Skip Ahlgren, Rocking TS Cattle - Winnett, MT

“We planted 2200 lbs of 360-D. Considering the ‘not so good’ soil we planted 360-D on, and our high altitude, and less than needed rainfall, the 360-D did well enough that we will de nitely plant it again”

Marlin Geier - Osage, WY

√ Will produce AT LEAST 80% of crop with 50% of water

√ Will produce a subsequent cutting after water is gone

√ Plant on dryland/ guaranteed to out yield Ranger or Ladak

√ Plant under pivots that only pump 400 gal/

√ Plant on elds that have only early season creek water

√ Plant under end guns on pivots

√

fall

Currently, approximately 60 undergraduates are enrolled in the program, including 39 in-state students. Tim Collier, head of the UW Department of Ecosystem Science and Management, estimates that approximately 90 percent of students who graduated from the program last year secured jobs in resource management in public or private sectors.

The program was first accredited in 1990 and undergoes periodic reviews by the Society for Range Management in order to maintain accreditation. “We have been among the largest undergraduate degree programs in rangeland ecology and management in a public lands state,” Beck comments.

To learn more about the program, visit https://bit.ly/ uw-rewm or contact Beck at jlbeck@uwyo.edu.

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Statistically, March is the most unproductive month of the year in the U.S. This is the result of “March Madness,” which is the season of the NCAA. Some companies lose up to $1.9 billion in wages paid to workers who were not productive and instead spent company time betting on the NCAA tournament.

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When watermelons are grilled or baked, they lose their granular texture and can even be used as a meat substitute, a “watermelon steak.”

NDSU Extension virtual canola production update

By Anitha Chirumamilla and Greg Endres, NDSU

Farmers and crop advisers interested in canola production management updates should plan to participate in the 2024 Getting-it-Right in Canola Production virtual meeting on March 12, from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

This online-only meeting is conducted by North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension and is supported by the Northern Canola Growers Association.

“University and industry professionals will provide research updates and recommendations to assist canola farmers with production decisions for the 2024 growing season,” says Anitha Chirumamilla, Extension cropping systems specialist at the Langdon Research Extension Center and co-organizer of the event.

The webinar will be delivered by Zoom. There is no fee to attend but pre-registration is required at www.ndsu.edu/ agriculture/ag-hub/getting-it-right. All who preregister will receive emailed instructions for participating in the event.

“This meeting will focus on the latest research in canola and will help growers and consultants make sustainable and profitable decisions,” says Greg Endres, Extension cropping systems specialist at the Carrington Research Extension Center and co-organizer.

Topics that will be covered include agronomic practices in irrigated and dryland canola, such as cultivar selection, seed rate, plant establishment and intercropping, fertilizer recommendations, disease, insect and weed management, and biofuel and crop market updates.

The presentations will be recorded and archived. Attendees also will receive a list of pertinent Extension canola production reference materials that will supplement information from the presentations. Certified crop adviser continuing education credits will be available for meeting participants. #####

Approximately 1,000,000 dogs in the U.S. are named as the heirs of their owners’ wills.

The National Wheat Foundation and BASF award scholarship

Two college students pursuing degrees in agriculture that will benefit the wheat industry will be awarded $2,500 scholarships this semester. Thanks to a great partnership with BASF, the National Wheat Foundation is pleased to award these annual scholarships to undergraduate college students.

“All the applicants were excellent and it was very difficult to select only two,” said Ben Scholz, NWF Director and Scholarship Committee Chairman. “The next generation is responsible for the future of the wheat industry, and with applicants like these, the future is bright.”

The two scholarship winners are:

Grace Timm, a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln pursuing an Agribusiness degree on a Pre-Law track. Grace demonstrates the highest levels of achievement in her academics, extra-curricular involvement and personal leadership qualities. She is serving as the Nebraska Wheat Ambassador,

and as such, helps to educate and promote wheat to consumers.

Sophia Flikkema, a junior at Mississippi State University from Bozeman, Montana, is awarded a $2,500 scholarship. Sophia is majoring in Economics and Asian Studies and plans to work in wheat merchandising. Sophia wants to tackle the global challenges that affect wheat growers and is studying the Chinese language in order to communicate and understand the United States’ third-biggest trading partner. The National Wheat Foundation appreciates the work that Sophia is doing to prepare herself to keep the American wheat industry strong in the global marketplace.

Congratulations Grace and Sophia, the National Wheat Foundation and BASF wish you well this semester and in your future endeavors. We are thrilled to award you these scholarships and look forward to your further contributions to the wheat industry.

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Reading cattle mineral tags

By Tara L. Felix, Penn State Extension Beef Specialist

Minerals are essential for beef cattle in all stages of production. Understanding how to choose the correct mineral for your cattle can be challenging. This article will provide an overview of how to read mineral tags.

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There are six classes of nutrients that all animals require: carbohydrates, fat, protein, vitamins, minerals, and water. While we may not think about it every day, carbohydrates and fats supply the bulk of the energy most animals need and protein is essential for growth, including muscle. Vitamins, minerals, and water often only get attention when the operation does not run smoothly.

Of the six classes of nutrients, minerals are the only inorganic portion of an animal’s diet. From an analytical standpoint, such as feedstuffs analysis from DairyOne, Cumberland Valley Analytical Services, or any other lab, the mineral fraction is lumped together in a term called “ash.” This means that the minerals are the noncombustible (that part that cannot be burned) part of the feed. In most feeds, the ash concentration is around 4 to 6% of the total feed. Some hay samples may have as much as 10 to 14% ash, particularly if the hay rake was set close to the ground or the field was dusty. In general, minerals make up a relatively small percentage of beef cattle rations. So why the emphasis on minerals?

Problems can arise when producers do

not pay regular attention to their mineral program. Minerals impact a number of functions throughout the body of our cattle. Proper mineral supplementation ensures that cows breed back quickly to produce a calf the following year. Adequate mineral supplementation can also optimize growth in feeder calves. Good mineral balance is critical to developing the structure (or bones) of young stock. As such, minerals must be fed to every class of cattle throughout their lives.

Macro and Micro Minerals

There are two classifications that minerals fall into: macro minerals and micro minerals. The seven macro minerals that function throughout the body are: calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sodium (Na), sulfur (S), chlorine (Cl), and magnesium (Mg). While there are a large number of micro minerals, those most commonly associated with cattle requirements or disorders are: cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), iodine (I), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn). These mineral sub-classifications exist based on the proportion of minerals in the body (Table 1). The macro minerals make up over 99% of the body’s total minerals while the micro minerals, sometimes referred to as trace minerals, make up less than 1% of the body’s total minerals.

- 0.35

- 0.25

Micro minerals combined 0.3 – 0.5

**combined the remaining macro minerals, after Ca and P, are close to 25

Source: Table adapted from McDowell, 2003 “Minerals in Animal and Human Nutrition” Mineral Functions

The discrepancy between the amount of macro minerals and micro minerals may encourage one to place a greater emphasis on the macro minerals. However, the reality is that a number of critical functions would be impacted if due attention was not given to the micro minerals. That is because each mineral plays a key part in different body system functions. While this list is not meant to be exhaustive, some highlights of those functions are included.

For example, macro minerals, like calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P), are critical for bone growth and muscle contractions. Meanwhile, sodium (Na) and potassium (K) are important for what we call osmotic balance, making sure the body, which is largely water, stays hydrated so that it can function. Micro minerals, like copper (Cu) and Zinc (Zn) are critical in pathways throughout

the body that support energy supply to the animal. Many of the micro minerals, including Cu and Zn but also selenium (Se) and manganese (Mn), support reproductive and immune functions of the body, ensuring that cattle are healthy and cows get bred and stay pregnant!

Requirements

Due to the critical functions of minerals in a number of body systems, there are specific mineral requirements for cattle. These requirements are often partitioned by class of cattle: growing, gestating, or lactating (Table 2). In addition, because minerals make up such a small proportion of the body and the diet, there are maximum tolerable concentrations (also in Table 2), or concentrations that if we exceed, cause toxicity problems and may risk doing more harm than good for the animal.

CONTINUED ON PAGE C38

Table 1. Proportion of minerals in the body

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Reading cattle mineral tags

Website: www.vaughntrucksales.com

2015 Timpte

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211

Lakeland Feed and Supply is a full-line feed manufacturer, fertilizer blender and supplier of agriculture goods and services. We also blend lawn, pasture, reclamation and wildlife seed mixes on site and we stock a wide selection of pet foods & animal health products. Utilizing local grains and supporting area growers allows us to create a circle of sustainable agriculture, while providing the highest quality products. We welcome you to stop at either store location for more information.

Lakeland Feed & Supply is pleased to be sponsors of youth organizations such as FFA, 4H, and High School Rodeo, among others. We offer FFA & 4H discounts, awards programs, and MUCH MORE!

All of our feed is proudly made Montana Fresh at our Hamilton, MT location. Custom Mixes are available. Just give us a call!

23 Lakeland Dealers throughout Montana, Wyoming & Idaho

1 Adapted from the NASEM, 2016, “Nutrient Requirements for Beef Cattle” and NASEM, 2005 “Mineral Tolerance of Animals”.

2 Maximum Tolerable Concentration

3 When provided as NaCl, or salt, in the total diet.

4 Ill-defined individual requirement.

Calcium and phosphorus requirements are specified in grams per day and percent of the daily intake. The grams per day is specified because it is a more accurate representation of the animals’ true needs; however, most feed labels will list percent Ca and P. Calcium and phosphorus function together within the body in a well-defined synchrony. The ratio of Ca to P in the total diet that cattle consume should be maintained close to a 2:1 ratio. The grams per day requirements are presented as fairly wide ranges. This is because Ca and P are critical for growth, thus, the more pounds per day cattle gain, the more grams per day of Ca and P will be required. Similarly, because Ca and P are excreted in the milk, the more milk the cow produces per day, the more grams of Ca and P she will require. As long as close to a 2:1 ratio of Ca to P is maintained, cattle can tolerate wide ranges in the supply of these two macro minerals. For brief periods of time, cattle can tolerate shifts outside of the 2:1 ratio, tolerating from 1:1 to 6:1 supplies of Ca:P. These ranges do not represent the ideal and should not be maintained long-term. The ratio of Ca:P assumes supply from the entire diet, so knowing concentrations of Ca and P in feedstuffs is helpful.

Perhaps the most challenging part about mineral requirements for cattle operations is that minerals are supplied not just through supplementation but through the daily feeds delivered or grazed. If animals graze, the soil mineral concentrations can impact their mineral requirements. Not only do soil mineral concentrations alter forage mineral concentrations but soils themselves are also consumed by grazing animals. Take the Ca:P ratio discussed above. Grain sources tend to contain elevated concentrations of P, requiring additional Ca supplementation. Inversely, forages fed in cattle diets often contain adequate Ca but require additional P supplementation to balance the ratio. In the case of Ca and P, as long as the 2:1 ratio is maintained, cattle can function in a wide supply range of these minerals. For this reason, maximum tolerable concentrations are intentionally not specified for Ca and P. However, maximum tolerable concentrations can be critical for other minerals.

The maximum tolerable concentrations, sometimes referred to as MTL or maximum tolerable levels, are set based on animal health outcomes. That is, above these concentrations, abnormal cattle health outcomes could be expected. Many of the

mineral toxicities and deficiencies occur among micro minerals. This is because these micro minerals are required in very minute amounts; therefore, there is a narrow range between what is required by cattle and what can become potentially dangerous to their health.

Always consult with your veterinarian or nutritionist when attempting to diagnose mineral deficiencies or toxicities.

Common Mineral Toxicities in Cattle

Few macro minerals reach toxic concentrations, the exceptions are sulfur (S) and potassium (K). Elevated S in water sources is often the cause of sulfur toxicity, although some byproduct feeds can also contain elevated S concentrations. Cattle suffering from S toxicity may head press (push their heads into the corner or a pen) or stagger in the pen or pasture. These symptoms occur because the elevated S is impairing the neurological (brain) functions of those animals. In early spring pastures, K concentrations are elevated, causing a secondary deficiency of magnesium (described below).

Molybdenum (Mo) is considered an essential mineral, meaning this mineral is needed by cattle for normal body function; however, required concentrations are not even listed in many resources (note Table 2). This is because cattle operations are far more likely to deal with Mo in excess than to deal with deficiencies. Most soils contain adequate concentrations of Mo to supply feedstuffs commonly fed to cattle and eliminate the need for supplemental Mo. Some soils, particularly soils fertilized with contaminated lime or biosolids, can accumulate Mo. This accumulation of Mo causes it to interfere with copper (Cu) and reduces the Cu absorption. Thus, Mo in excess often presents as a Cu deficiency (see below).

Selenium (Se) is a mineral with a VERY narrow range between required and toxic. Depending on the region of the country, cattle producers may deal with soils containing toxic concentrations or soils containing deficient concentrations of Se. Knowing the concentration of Se in soils on a grazing operation should be the first step in diagnosing challenges. Severely toxic concentrations of Se in cattle will result in hair loss and damaged hooves.

Common Mineral Deficiencies in Cattle

Similar to toxicities, macro minerals are rarely deficient in cattle. The one exception

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1995 Case IH 2188 combine with MacDon 960 36-ft header and 1010 15-ft pickup header. $19,995

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2001 Ford Excursion XLT 5.4L V8, at, Dual AC, ps, pb, pw, pl, seats 9, 3rd seat, 4” lift, 90% BFG 315/75r16 all terrain’s, 3.73 gear ratio, dana 60 front, this is a factory 4x2, Gray cloth interior, Gun Metal Grey exterior, Warn bumper. $7900

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1980 International Service Truck 210 hp DT466, 5&2 spd., AB, PS, IMT 425AT knuckle boom with remote, hydraulic outriggers, 13 hp Curtis 25CFM compressor, 70% 11r22.5 tires, 12-ft. service body. $17,500

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2001 Chevrolet C6500 210 hp 3126 Cat diesel, 6 spd manual AC, PS, PB, 95K miles, 90% 245/75-19.5 tires, 15-ft. flatbed, PTO hydraulic winch, 26K GVW $15,500

Reading cattle mineral tags

CONTINUED

to that rule would be magnesium (Mg). Magnesium deficiency in cattle can be relatively common when cattle graze lush spring pastures. These pastures contain elevated potassium (K) which causes a secondary Mg deficiency. Supplements for cattle labeled as “HiMag” are common for this reason. These supplements often contain up to 10% Mg to supply adequate Mg during the early spring grazing season. Copper (Cu) deficiencies in cattle may be caused by primary mechanisms, meaning not enough Cu was supplied to the animal, or secondary mechanisms, meaning adequate Cu should be in the diet, but something is interfering with its ability to be absorbed by the animal. Deficiency of Cu impairs reproductive and immune functions. Therefore, deficient cattle may have trouble becoming pregnant or maintaining a pregnancy, or cattle deficient in Cu may get sick more often. In cases of minor deficiency, growth may just be slightly reduced such that one is not even aware of the deficiency. In other cases of prolonged deficiency, the hair coat of cattle changes color from the root outward. For example, black cattle develop an orange tinge to their hair coat, but not at the tips like sun-bleaching. This color change occurs at the roots.

Selenium deficiency often impacts newborn calves in a condition referred to as White Muscle Disease (WMD). Calves with WMD are weak are birth and often unable to stand and suckle. While this disorder can be reversed by using injectable Se, it is recommended cattle producers examine

their herd mineral plan to ensure gestating cows have an adequate supply of Se. Like Cu, Se deficiency can also present more mildly with simply increased sickness and impaired male and female reproduction.

While other deficiencies and toxicities related to minerals certainly exist, cattle producers should regularly test feeds and soils to better understand these relationships and the potential risk to their own operations.

Examples of Mineral Tags or Labels

Perhaps the most important thing producers can understand and appreciate is how to read a feed tag and pick the right minerals for cattle. For certain minerals, the requirements shift depending on the class of cattle being fed. Therefore, when purchasing a mineral, look for a tag that specifies the type of cattle that will be supplemented.

In the tables provided below, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

These tables were formulated assuming cattle consume the given diet at roughly 2% of their body weight.

These tables were drafted considering the average needs of cattle in each scenario. A reasonable range of concentrations exists in each scenario.

Those elements NOT commonly supplemented in beef cattle diets were removed to reduce table size. They are still required elements, but not generally of concern in supplements.

Example 1: Possible label considerations for finishing cattle consuming greater than 70% grain (dry matter basis)

the same as ppm.

Table 3 depicts possible tag labels for supplements formulated to be fed to cattle consuming a grain-based diet. In this scenario, one assumes that greater than 70% of the diet comes from corn grain. This is important because when looking for a mineral supplement that will balance the Ca:P at 2:1 when cattle consume grain, remember that grains supply excess P. While cattle require a range of P on a grams per day basis, this often works out to about 0.15% of their dry matter intake. Corn grain contains 0.3% P by itself. Therefore, if the bulk of the dietary intake is corn grain, cattle requirements for P are typically met, but Ca is not. In fact, finding a mineral program that meets the Ca requirement of grain-fed cattle can be difficult. Generally, cattle consuming grainbased diets are fed a mineral pack that meets their other mineral requirements, and then CaCO3 (limestone) is supplemented to balance the Ca:P ratio. Using CaCo3 to supply Ca is the cheapest approach to balance Ca:P. Thus, cattle producers looking to meet

the needs of their grain-fed cattle are encouraged to consider the feeding directions and the amount of other minerals in the tag. Work with a nutritionist to determine how much limestone may need to be added to balance the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio in the diet.

Example 2. Possible label considerations for cattle fed predominantly forage.

The challenge with considering possible mineral labels for forage-fed cattle is not knowing the soil or forage composition to determine the supply of minerals from the diet of the cattle. For example, one can calculate needs based on book values for Orchard grass hay, but this is a very dangerous assumption. Therefore, what far more mineral supplementation programs rely on is meeting the needs of the animals without knowing what will be supplied by the diet. Table 4 then presents possible mineral tags that may be generally formulated for growing and finishing cattle.

CONTINUED ON PAGE C42

Table 3. Mineral Labels for cattle finished on >70% grain

Finishing Label directions Label directions Label directions

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2022 John Deere 1775NT (WA), Stk #83092, 16R30, 3,122

Acres, ME5, Markers, Hydraulic Variable Drive with Row Command, Active Air D $207,000 $199,000

2022 John Deere 1775 (BE), Stk #81213, 24R30, 7,463

Acres, Loaded with Options, ExactEmerge, IRHD, Pneumatic Row Cleaners & Closing Wheels $359,500

2022 John Deere 1775 (BE), Stk #80599, 3,341 Acres, Not Used In ’22 Due To Late Delivery, Loaded with Options, Ind Markers, IRHD ExactEmerge Unit $267,000

2022 John Deere 1775NT (HA), Stk #80818, 24R30, 4,990

Acres, IRHD, Exact Rate In Furrow Fertilizer with 600 Gallon Tank, Frame Weight Dist System, Available April 2024 $390,000 $381,500

2022 John Deere 1775NT (WA), Stk #79532, 24R30, 6,400

Acres, IRHD, Wing Weight Dist, Schagel Closing Wheels, Dawn GFX Row Cleaner, CCS, 130 Gallon Tanks $334,000 $329,000

2022

2022

(WI) Winner, SD

605-842-2040

(SU) Sundance, WY 307-283-2971

(PI) Pierre, SD 605-224-1631

John Deere DB120 (WA), Stk #78440, 48R30, 31,000 Acres, ExactEmerge, Martin Pin Adjust, TruVees New In 2022, 5 Section Frame, Planted All Corn $485,000 $469,500

2018

John Deere 1775NT (WA), Stk #83629, 24R30, 26,785 Acres, Flex Fold, Vacuum, Central Fill, Markers $135,000

2018

John Deere 1775NT (WA), Stk #81737, 24R30, 8,200

Acres, Very Nice 1 Owner Unit, Hyd Drive with Clutches, Screw Adjustable Row Cleaners, Great Condition $199,000

2018

John Deere DB60 (HA), Stk #81041, 36R20, 16,187

Acres, Tractor Power Generator, SeedStar 4 Monitoring, Fold Control On Display, ExactEmerge $349,000

2015 John Deere 1775 NT (PI), Stk #79129, 24R30, 24,000

Acres, ExactEmerge, Planter Power Generation, Mini Seed Hoppers, In Furrow Fertilizer with Exact Rate Sensor $144,900 $140,000

2013

John Deere 1770NT CCS (PI), Stk #84392, 24R30, 27,000 Acres, Nicely Equipped, Liquid Fertilizer Tank, Airforce & Row Command, Drawbar Hitch, Spiked Closing Wheels $94,900

2012 John Deere 1770NT CCS (BE), Stk #84505, 24R30, 30,000 Acres, Variable Rate, Row Command, Pneumatic Down Force, SeedStar, Markers, Cable Drive $85,500

2011 John Deere 1770NT CCS (WA), Stk #83044, 24R30, 20,297 Acres, Markers, Pro Series Row Units with Hydraulic Variable Drive, Row Command Clutches, Shedded When Not Used $99,500 $94,500

2022

2018

(BL) Bloomfield, NE

402-373-4449

(PH) Philip, SD

605-859-2636

(HA) Hartington, NE

402-254-3908

(BF) Belle Fourche, SD

605-892-2621

(BE) Beresford, SD

605-763-5020

(WA) Wayne, NE

402-375-3325

2009 John Deere 1770NT CCS (PI), Stk #83690, 24R30, 25,000 Acres, Spoked Gauge Wheels, Pneumatic Downforce, Row Command, Total Ag 4 Section, In Furrow Fertilizer System with Red Balls $84,900 $77,000

2008 John Deere 1770NT CCS (WA), Stk #79714, 24R30, 20,000 Acres, Very Nice Unit, Equipped with Dawn Row Openers & Cast Closing Wheels, Row Command, Shedded $83,000 $69,500

2008 John Deere 1770NT CCS (WI), Stk #84359, 16R30, Cleanest Unit You Will Find For It’s Age, Always Kept Inside, Copperhead Closing Wheels, In Furrow Fertilizer $64,900

2007 John Deere 1790 (HA), Stk #84268, 16/31 & 15/30 Split Row, 23,958 Acres, Mech Drive with 350 Monitor, Each Row Has Single Blade Coulter, Spring Down Force, Narrow Spoke Gauge Wheels $69,500 $59,900

2007 John Deere 1790 (HA), Stk #84268, 16/31 & 15/30, 23,958 Acres, Mechanical Drive with 350 Monitor, Each Row Has Single Blade Coulter, Spring Down Force $59,500

2005 John Deere 1770NT CCS (WA), Stk #77619, 12R30, 9,753 Acres, Very Nice 2 Owner Unit, Half Width Disconnect, Finger Pickup Meters, Spring Down Force, Hydraulic Drive, SeedStar $58,000 $46,500

2004 John Deere 1790 (WA), Stk #79521, 16R32 & 15R30,

2018

2012

2008

2022 NDE U550D (BE), Stk #82203, Left Hand Discharge with Walking Tandem Axles, 640XL Scale Along with Remote Display 4” LED $70,500

2019 Kuhn RC260 (HA), Stk #79327, Equipped with Single Axle, LED Side Remote Display, Won’t Find A Nicer Unit, Available June 2024 $48,000

2018 Kuhn Knight RC250 (HA), Stk #80930, Commercial Helix Reel, 1000 PTO, Scale, 36” 4 Auger

Discharge, New Tires, Stainless Steel Liners From Factory $48,500

2017 Kuhn Knight RA142 (HA), Stk #83492, Point Scale System, Equipped W/Helix Reel & Slide Tray

Discharge $33,000

2015 NDE 2806 (WI), Stk #78460, 1,200 Cu Ft Wagon, Heavy Tandem Axles & Twin Screw Auger, Hasn’t Been Used Much, New Gearbox On Front Auger, Knives In Good Shape, RH Discharge $49,900 $41,500

2009 Meyerink 480 (WI), Stk #79221, LH Discharge, Augers Are Good, Tires Are Good, Fender Flares & Avery Weigh-Tronix Scale, Will Have New Discharge Put On $19,900

NDE 2804 (WI), Stk #83502, 110 Cubic Foot Wagon, Will Be Serviced & Have New Knives $33,900

2023

2012

2020

Firestone 480-80R42, 420-85R28 Tires $173,900

Kubota M7-171 (BF), Stk #84081, 1,561 Hours, Loader with Grapple, Rear Duals, 4 Remotes, Command Arm, MFWD, Suspension Seat, Single Point Loader Hydraulic Connection $98,900

2023 John Deere 6R 155 (HA), Stk #74038, 682 Hours, 640R Loader with 8-ft. Bucket & 5 Tine Grapple, IVT, 3 Rear SCV’s, Cold Start Package, 2 Sets Of 450 lb Rear Weights, Extended Warranty Til 4-24-27 $228,500

John Deere 6R 145 (WA), Stk #73021, 185 Hours, Comes with 640R Loader, 8-ft Bucket & Grapple, 4 eSCV’s, AutoTrac Ready, Cold Start Package, 480/80R42 Duals, 2 Sets Of 450lb Weights, Globe Not Included $219,000 $214,500

2004 John Deere 7220 (WI), Stk #81551, 9,068 Hours, IVT Tractor with Miller Loader. Used On Feed Wagon & Baler, Loader Not Used

Bearings, Electric Joystick, Weights

Ground Driven, Spring Downforce, Ran From A JD Computrac Monitor, Always Shedded, No Culters $46,500 $43,500

2022 John Deere DB90 (WA), Stk #82607, 36R30, 4,461 Acres, ME5 ExactEmerge, IRHD Downforce, Dawn GFX Hydraulic Row Cleaners, Cast Closers, TruVees 14.8” $552,000 $544,500

2022 John Deere 1775NT (BE), Stk #80602, 24R30, 8,974 Acres, ExactEmerge IRHD, Pneumatic Closing Wheels & Cleaners, Always Shedded, Will Have New Openers $349,000

2021 John Deere DB90 (WI), Stk #83454, 36R30, 15,000 Acres, Well Taken Care Of, 5 Section Frame, CCS, Liquid Fertilizer with RU Mounted In Furrow, Electric Drive $397,500

1995 John Deere 1760 (WA), Stk #79776, 12R30, Very Nice Unit, Openers, Gauge Wheel Tires & Closing Frames Have All Been Done

Reading cattle mineral tags

Gopher

1 While most forage-fed cattle consume diets adequate in K, K is required in growing cattle and may still be added. Stored forages contain less K than fresh forages.

2 Many times if these minerals are fed as “free choice,” the salt concentration will be greatly elevated because it is being used to control cattle intakes.

3 mg/kg is the same as ppm.

4 The upper inclusions of Se are provided because Se is federally regulated. Most feed tags will explicitly state, “Do not exceed 0.3 PPM.” The upper inclusion listed assumes all 0.3 PPM Se being supplied by the

supplement.

Example 3: Possible label considerations for mature, grazing cows.

Finally, cows fed forages have slightly altered requirements when compared to growing and finishing cattle. While the book values acknowledge the difference between requirements for cows in gestation and cows in lactation, rarely can we find mineral supplements specific to these

classes of cattle. That makes sense because typically we feed an entire herd of cows and may have cows both in lactation and gestation simultaneously. Therefore, in Table 5 below, only lactation requirements are presented because they represent the upper range and will be the basis for most supplements. Keep in mind that just as in our forage finished cattle in Table 4, many of the macro mineral needs are met.

Table 5.

1 Many times if these minerals are fed as “free choice,” the salt concentration will be greatly elevated because it is being used to control cattle intakes.

2 mg/kg is the same as ppm.

3 Cu and Zn commonly exceed requirements in cow minerals because of their critical roles in foot health and reproduction and their notoriously poor absorption rates.

4 Upper inclusions of Se are very important because Se is federally regulated. Most feed tags will explicitly state, “Do not exceed 0.3 PPM.”

In Table 5, magnesium is also included to offset any elevated potassium. While most producers may select to feed a “HiMag” mineral only in the spring, it can be fed year-round and may be advantageous if wet forages, such as baleage, provide the bulk of winter cow feed.

Summary

The best way to determine the mineral needs of a beef cattle operation is to de-

termine the mineral concentrations in the feedstuffs or the pastures cattle consume. Choose a mineral supplementation program that will best match the needs of the feeding system. Most mineral companies are happy to assist in an exploratory process to analyze samples and find a program best suited to the operation. To learn more about determining the mineral needs for a beef cattle operation, speak with a nutritionist or extension specialist.

Table 4. Mineral labels for cattle finished on forage.

for

cows

Marias River Livestock Association directors, Clayton Gernaat, Dean Lerum, and Jeff Habets visited with Bear Par Development’s Josh Gomez and Trish Cichosz at Montana’s Next Generation Conference. Both groups were sponsors of the conference which attracted nearly 250 Montana participants.

Photo by Kari Lewis.

Training new ranchers

A University of Idaho meat science research team has secured a large federal grant to provide training for beginning ranchers throughout the Northwest.

The three-year, $479,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture will fund a series of regional workshops titled “Beef 101: Pacific Northwest Beginning Rancher Development Program.”

The team’s goal is to host about six workshops serving roughly 180 producers combined per year. One-day workshops will focus on specific issues relating to livestock production. A comprehensive, multi-day workshop will be hosted in late May in Moscow, covering a host of relevant topics, such as livestock breeding, genetic selection, animal health, grazing, land management, diversifying a business, financial planning, beef quality assurance, vaccinations, food safety, beef markets and livestock evaluation.

The U of I team includes Jessie Van Buren, Michael Colle, Lauren Christensen, Meranda Small, Audra Cochran, Brett Wilder and Phil Bass.

Participants in the workshops will have the opportunity to have soil and forage samples from their operations analyzed. The grant will also pair new ranchers with experienced mentors in the industry and will cover site visits, during which experts from the team will go to individual operations to make assessments. A stipend will be offered to the program’s mentors, and scholarships will be available to help participants cover mileage, hotels and other travel costs.

Grant funds will also help Bass and other meat science researchers travel and present at relevant previously existing educational programs, such as Lemhi County’s annual beef school. Furthermore, grant funds recently helped Small travel to provide training to young producers with the Student Idaho Cattle Association. Some funds will be used to purchase teaching tools and props, such as a replica cow used to demonstrate fetal dystocia, which occurs when abnormal fetal size or positioning complicates delivery.

“This is really taking the mission of Extension and just accentuating it, and it’s given us that license to go out and do the job that we were tasked with doing and to be very effective at it,” said Bass, who is principal investigator on the grant.

The Idaho Cattle Association authored a letter of support for the grant, vowing to help recruit beginning producers to participate.

“Everybody on the team has connections with younger producers in the state, so that was one of the targets,” added Van Buren, a UI Extension educator serving Latah County, who had the primary responsibility for writing the grant.

Wilder, an area Extension educator with the Department of Agriculture Economics and Rural Sociology will present ranch business management tips, such as when to buy or replace heifers, how to set up a small business, how to have a conversation with a lender and how to manage risk.

“It’s a really exciting grant they spearheaded,” Wilder said. “It’s a challenge across agriculture as a whole to get young people involved at a meaningful level. I think we’re going to be able to accomplish a lot.