Trader's Dispatch - January 2023

NWARC to host annual crop production update meeting

The Northwestern Ag Research Center will hold its annual Winter Meeting on January 17, 2023 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell, MT. The event features speakers from across the state who will be presenting on the following topics:

Winter canola production in northwest Montana: Dr. Clint Beiermann, Northwestern Ag. Research Center-MSU

Grass forage options and performers: Dr. Jessica Torrion, Northwestern Ag. Research Center -MSU

Winter wheat performance, breeding, and research updates: Dr. Suchismita Mondal, Plant Science and Plant Pathology-MSU

Cover Crops: Dr. Darrin Boss, Department of Research Centers -MSU

Montana soils are becoming acidic: why, how, & what we can do! Dr. Manbir Rakkar, Land Resources and Environmental Sciences-MSU

Spring wheat POST applied residual herbicide options: Dr. Clint Beiermann, Northwestern Ag. Research Center-MSU

Weeds to watch for: Josh Wagoner, Montana Department of Agriculture

The meeting is scheduled to begin at 9.00 am and conclude at 3.00 pm.

RSVP is required by January 12, 2023. Contact NWARC at (406) 755-4303 or email charlene.kazmier@montana.edu to RSVP or questions. CCA/CEUs and pesticide applicator credits will be available.

OTHER DATED

Jan 28, Montana’s Next Generation Conference, Shelby MT A4

QPR Gatekeeper training

MSU Extension Yellowstone County will offer several upcoming QPR Gatekeeper training opportunities on January 19, February 15, and March 29.

QPR is an evidence-based suicide prevention training that teaches participants to identify the warning signs of suicide and provide help to someone in crisis. Register at montana.edu/extension/yellowstone. This training is free and space is limited. Contact MSU Extension Agent Sara Fluer at 406-256-2828 with questions.

Sweet Grass County High School ag educator selected for national award

Taylor Standley, agricultural educator at Sweet Grass County High School in Montana, is one of 33 agricultural educators nationwide who received the 2022 National Association of Agricultural Educators Teachers Turn the Key (TTTK) Scholarship Award, presented during the 2022 NAAE Convention, November 29 through December 3, in Las Vegas.

The Teachers Turn the Key scholarship brings together agricultural educators with three to five years of experience and immerses them in five days of professional development that addresses issues specific to the early years of teaching agriculture. Participants also have the opportunity to become involved in NAAE leadership and network with other NAAE convention attendees. TTTK awardees come away from the experience with a long-lasting peer cohort and tools that will help them have

successful careers as agricultural educators.

In addition to attending professional development, each of the TTTK scholarship recipients was also recognized at a general session during the NAAE convention.

NAAE is the professional organization for agricultural educators with over 8,000 members nationwide. The organization advocates for agricultural education, provides advancement through professional development for agricultural educators, and works to recruit and retain agricultural educators in the profession. NAAE offers a variety of programs and services to support this three-pronged mission. The mission of NAAE is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” NAAE is headquartered in Lexington, Ky.

Multi-state land management and leasing workshop planned for Midwestern women in ag

An upcoming four-part extension workshop for women in agriculture will focus on the basics of land management, leasing and conservation for landlords and tenants.

Stevensville MT A21

Mar 4, Bulls of the Bitterroot, 3C Cattle, Black Angus, Stevensville MT A23

Mar 4, Redland Red Angus & Gelbvieh, Hysham MT A22

Mar 6, Veseth Cattle Co., Red Angus, Glasgow MT A27

Mar 6, Clear Creek Angus & Weaver Herefords, Chinook MT A25

Mar 7, O’Hara Land & Cattle Maine-Anjou, Maine Angus & Maine Tainer, Online A29

Mar 7, Apex Angus, Valier MT A31

Mar 9, Fritz Red Angus, Brady MT A33

Mar 20, Whistling Winds Angus, Inc, Hingham MT A35

Mar 22, Westphal Registered Red Angus, Grass Range MT A37

Mar 24, Sun River Red Angus, Great Falls MT A38

Mar 27, Harrer’s Lost Lake Ranch Black Angus, Great Falls MT A39

“The Power of Negotiation and Communication: Land Leasing Strategies for Midwestern Ag Women” program will be a 4-part series, held at Lincoln Logan McPherson Extension Center located at 348 W State Farm Rd. North Platte Nebraska. The series will focus on writing agricultural lease agreements, landlord-tenant relationships, negotiations and conservation practices. Workshops will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Central time on January 18,

January 25, February 1, and February 8. The program is a collaboration between extension women in Agriculture programs at Purdue University, Kansas State University and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Minimum Qualifications: Credentials in engineering preferred but not necessary, business and agriculture or closely related field complimentary to irrigation district management. Supervisory experience is strongly desired. Current driver’s license required. CDL license required within 6 months of being hired.

Job Summary: Administer the federal water right and manage the operation and maintenance, improvement and replacement of HVID’s infrastructure which includes the storage, carriage, distribution and drainage systems necessary for the irrigation of 20,000+ acres. Work is directed by the Board of Commissioners and as influenced by the Bureau of Reclamation and the laws of the State of Montana. Job includes the supervision of approximately 6 employees and management of the annual budget, equipment and other assets.

For further information and to request an application: Helena Valley Irrigation District, 3840 North Montana Avenue, Helena, MT 59602 (406) 442-3292

Multi-state land management

According to Department of Agriculture census data from 2017, there are over 90,000 women producers and over 51,000 female landlords in the three states

“Women represent an important and growing demographic in agricultural land management and this workshop series will teach essential management information while providing women the chance to ask questions, connect with each other and share their experiences,” said Jessica Groskopf, director of the Nebraska Women in Agriculture program.

Each state will host a number of workshop sites with local extension personnel. Keynote speakers will be simulcast to each location and each site will provide additional speakers and hands-on activities. Dinner will be included.

Groskopf said the program’s structure is intended to strengthen networks of women in rural areas, which can provide opportunities for building trust and sharing information. “Connections are so important to women farmers,” she said. “We have seen the benefits that come from knowing your peers, having a place to share difficulties and mitigate the isolation that so many of us in agriculture often feel.”

The workshops seek to help participants increase their awareness of local land values and cash rental rates and the factors that influence them. They will also cover the importance of having a written lease and the items that should be included in it to ensure an equitable agreement for all parties. Participants will learn negotiation strategies as well as best practices to improve relationships between landlords and tenants.

Conservation programs will also be covered, so that women will have a greater understanding of compliance requirements and increase their awareness of voluntary conservation programs that are available to them.

The workshop costs $50 per person and participants should plan to attend each session. A virtual option is available for those unable to attend a workshop site, although in-person attendance is highly encouraged to better network with other attendees and interact with speakers. Registration is required by January 13 and may be completed at go.unl.edu/negotiation.

Crop Production Clinics

Nebraska Extension is hosting their annual Crop Production Clinics (CPCs) across the state in 2023. These clinics highlight several topics including soil fertility, soil water & irrigation, crop pest management (insects, diseases, & weeds), cropping systems practices, agribusiness management, marketing strategies, and on-farm research. Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) credits are available. Pesticide applicator license recertifications will also be available for commercial/non-commercial applicators (Categories: 00, 01, D/R) and private pesticide applicator certification training.

January 18—Younes Conference Center (Kearney, NE)

January 19—Lochland Country Club (Hastings, NE) January 20—Holthus Convention Center (York, NE)— Commercial Applicator Focused Sessions

January 24—Younes Conference Center (Kearney, NE)— with NE Agri-Business Exposition

Published monthly by Trader’s Dispatch Inc., PO Box 997, Conrad, MT 59425-0997. Free on request to farmers, ranchers, heavy equipment owners and truckers in the Western United States.

Non-qualifying in-state annual subscription fee is $15. Out-of-state nonqualifying U.S. annual subscription $25. Periodicals Postage Paid at Conrad, MT and at additional mailing offices.

Grazing through snow and ice

By Ben Beckman

While the moisture this year is welcome, winter precipitation can bring challenges to animals grazing crop residues or stockpiled range. Not all snow is created equal however, and impacts can vary.

Just how much snow or ice can be a problem for animals grazing is debatable. This back and forth can mostly be attributed to two factors, the forage itself and precipitation we receive. The height and structure of forage is a huge part of availability under snow or ice Taller and fluffy forages like stockpiled pasture or windrowed grass are easier for animals to reach under snow and ice.

When it comes to precipitation, a heavy, wet snow will be harder to dig through than dry, fluff. However, even dryer snow in a large amount will result in the bottom portion getting compressed and more difficult to dig through. Crusting of the top layer after sunny days or warm temperatures is a concern as well. Compression and the forming of a crust makes animals trying to dig through for a bite have to work that much harder.

With ice, thickness and length of time it is maintained are the two factors to keep in mind. An inch of ice that melts in a day or two after warm temperatures can have less of an impact and ½ inch that sticks around for 3 or 4 days.

So, what is the level we need to watch for? Every animal is going to be a bit different, however, I like the 6 and ¼ inch rule. 6 inches of snow or ¼ inch of ice, and animals have to work harder to eat. At this point we need to start watching animal condition, and be ready to supplement, especially when temperatures drop. With colder temperatures, animals require more and more energy just to meet basic metabolic needs. #####

A teacher asked her students to use the word “beans” in a sentence. “My father grows beans,” said one girl. “My mother cooks beans,” said a boy. A third student spoke up, “We are all human beans.”

Flickner Innovation Farm to present current projects at workshop

The Flickner Innovation Farm will host a January 12 workshop to present up-to-date outcomes from the farm’s technology implementation and projects studying natural resource use. There will also be a presentation from NASA about how their programs can benefit farm management.

The workshop will take place at the Inman Community Center and will feature a range of experts speaking on a variety of subjects, including groundwater nitrate dynamics, protein sampling and grain quality, using cover crops for soil health, irrigation management, and more.

Organizers say the investigations from Kansas State University and University of Kansas researchers, local producers, and industry partners are helping to fine-tune current and emerging technologies that conserve water use while improving water quality and soil health.

“We have done just about everything this year, from looking at the water quality in our wells to chatting with scientists from NASA about the satellites in space,” said Ray Flickner, who owns and operates the Flickner Innovation Farm, located near Moundridge, Kan. “I’m excited to let people know what we’ve learned, in hopes that it will make a difference for other producers.”

The program begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. The event is free, and lunch will be provided. More information, including registration, is available online from the Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment (KCARE). Those interested in attending should register with KCARE by January 9.

The Innovation Farm is a partnership between Flickner, university scientists, watershed specialists and industry leaders. Together, they are conducting studies in a largefarm setting to identify the most efficient technologies and techniques for Kansas producers to use on their own farms.

Several K-State faculty members are conducting research at the Innovation Farm, including studies about soil health and cover crops; nutrient management; weed management; protein mapping and grain quality studies; and investigations on the effects of long-term cropping systems on fertilizer requirements.

In addition to presentations about ongoing projects and upcoming research, the meeting will also include opportunities to meet with vendors and other industry representatives.

Penguin Awareness Day

When is Penguin Awareness Day? This holiday is always observed on January 20 Penguin Awareness Day is a great opportunity to learn about and appreciate one of the few natives of Antarctica. On this days, spend a little time learning about them…. a pictorial book or internet site is fun. You can also watch a documentary of these cute and popular, grounded birds.

This day is also a time to wear black and white—penguin colors. However, wearing a tuxedo in their honor is optional. It is also popular today to tell a penguin joke or two.

Did you know? Penguins are found in Antarctica, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Chile, Peru, the Falkland Islands, and the Galapagos Islands. Elsewhere, they are only found in zoos.

Ray Flickner (far right) talks about research being done on his farm near Moundridge. The Flickner Innovation Farm will host a workshop in Inman January 12 to update farmers on recent research projects.

Help available to improve habitat for wildlife

By Maddy Rohr, K-State Research and Extension news service

Kansas State University wildlife extension specialist Drew Ricketts says managing private lands to benefit wildlife can be expensive, but there is help for landowners.

Ricketts said the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks offers the program, Habitat First, which is funded by the Pittman Robertson Act. The program assesses a tax on hunting equipment to support wildlife research and habitat improvement.

Ricketts said Habitat First is less complicated than most programs, making the distribution of payments and assistance easier.

“Let’s say you know you want to convert brome or fescue back to native grass,” he said. “The program has a per acre rate that will pay for herbicide application for that specific purpose, and they have a per acre rate that they will pay for grass seed.

“The first step,” he added, “is reaching out to wildlife and parks to find out who your local area biologist is. They’ll set up a site visit with you, talk about your goals and set up a contract if that’s something you’re

interested in.”

More information can be found on the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks website, or by reaching out to a local biologist.

Another program, the Environmental Quality Incentive Program (EQIP), is more familiar among producers, Ricketts said.

EQIP has specific, wildlife-driven sectors and is intended to be a cost share where the National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) pays 50% of the costs to improve habitat, and the producer pays the other 50%.

“If you’re thinking about managing rangelands for quail or prairie chickens, prescribed fire or tree removal, then I would recommend EQIP,” Ricketts said.

Ricketts said another cost-share program, Partners for Fish and Wildlife, is focused on at-risk species populations in Kansas, specifically the greater and lesser prairie chickens. It is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.

“The producer’s share of that cost can be implementing some of the practices that the producer and the biologist decide need to be done,” Ricketts said. “For example, if prescribed fire and tree removal are part of the plan, and the producer gets the area that’s under contract burned a certain number of times during the

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A mix between a Chihuahua and a dachshund is called a “chiweenie.”

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The term “coccyx” (also known as your tailbone) is derived from the Greek word “cuckoo” (“kokkux”) because the curved shape of the tailbone resembles the bird’s beak.

contract period, that can be their share of the cost and then the tree removal would be totally covered

“If there is tree removal that needs to be done, and a producer is interested in wildlife management, and they’re in the prairie chicken range, this can be a very good program for them.

Landowners may also receive help through the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), an erosion program to help balance commodities markets. While it was not originally planned with wildlife in mind, practices associated with CRP management impact wildlife habitats and thus parts of the program are wildlife driven.

“Anytime we’re planting native grass in areas where it’s lacking, it improves habitat for wildlife over time,” Ricketts said. “The State Acres for Wildlife Enhancement is one part that’s specifically wildlife-driven, and a lot of that is in center pivot irrigation systems where the corners are planted to native grass that are good for pheasant and quail.”

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Two-year-old heifer

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Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference set

By Patrick Mangan

The Montana State University Extension Office in Missoula County is partnering with the Missoula Conservation District and Lake County Conservation District to host a two-day conference about opportunities in agriculture in western Montana.

The Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference will be held in Missoula January 19th and 20th The conference theme,” Innovations in Agriculture” will highlight ways in which producers use innovative strategies and marketing options to manage their land and create viable land stewardship models for an ever divided and fracturing mosaic of plot sizes and uses of agricultural lands in western Montana. Presentation topics will include value-added agricultural opportunities, weed and rodent management on farms, grazing and pasture management for horses, cows, and other ruminants, irrigation management and other topics of interest for landowners of all sizes.

Cory Miller, owner of Grass Valley Farms in Missoula will be the keynote speaker of the conference presenting the methods he has brought onto his farms to support soil health, grazing management, and an ecosystems approach to land management. Grass Valley Farms integrates fungal communities into their soils, uses virtual fencing systems to manage cattle herds, and a host of other innovative strategies to improve the land and soil health.

The conference will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton Missoula Edgewater hotel, at 100 Madison St. in Missoula. The conference will happen all day Thursday, and a half day in the morning Friday. Conference registration fee of $50 includes lunch Thursday, a social hour Thursday evening, and breakfast Friday morning.

More details can be found at: https://lakecountyconservationdistrict.org/2023-western-montana-grazing-and-agconference/

Online registration found here: https://www.missoulaeduplace.org/event/23735

Conference details:

Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference January 19-20, 2023

Doubletree by Hilton Missoula Edgewater Hotel, 100 Madison St. Missoula, MT

Pre-registration strongly encouraged.

For additional details and information contact: Patrick Mangan 406-258-4205. Patrick.mangan@montana.edu

Snow for alfalfa

By Samantha Daniel

For alfalfa, snow is a winter gift, and the large winter storm that recently impacted most of western Nebraska brought anywhere from several inches to a few feet of the white stuff.

Snow helps alfalfa survive the winter. Plain and simple. A warm fall will allow some alfalfa to winterize very well and prepare for consistent cold temperatures. They do this by putting high concentrations of nutrients in the roots and crown to withstand temperatures down to 5 degrees.

Air temperature is colder than soil temperature. So even if the air is well below zero degrees, the soil will not be. With a layer of snow acting as insulation on the soil surface, the soil and roots of the alfalfa will be much warmer than bare soil and the air temperature. This layer of snow also protects the moisture in the roots and soil from being lost to evaporation. This is especially important with new seedings of alfalfa or alfalfa and grass mixtures which need to maintain root moisture. If the soil does dry out, desiccation, frost heaving, and greater swings in soil temperature can result in higher levels of winterkill across a stand.

Having some stubble at the end of the growing season is a great way to catch this much-needed snow. If a late season harvest is unavoidable, cut high to ensure snow trapping stubble can still function. In an ideal situation, this snow insulation, winter hardy variety selection, and this is so important, alfalfa given the chance to properly winterize in the fall, will keep winter kill to a minimum.

Snow is a great insulator and can help alfalfa and grasses survive winters. Even if you aren’t dreaming of a white Christmas, your alfalfa probably dreams for it every year.

Trees, dealing with extreme weather

By Catherine Wissner University of Wyoming Laramie County Extension

Plants have evolved to deal with cold, but what about extreme cold and wind. Over the course of summer into fall, trees go from tender (new growth) to a resistant condition or hardening for winter. The reduction of day length and cooler night temps triggers this response. Tree cells start to undergo cellular changes by accumulate more sugars, some shrink, and some become dehydrated, they all harden and become more glass like. The larger the concentration of sugars the hardier and better to withstand extreme conditions. For example, leaves acclimate very little sugars and drop off when temperatures dip into the 30’s. Leaf buds are hardier than flower buds. New growth of tender twigs are not as hardy as thicker branches. Tree roots covered by soil are hardy and having a cover of mulch helps hold in moisture and keeps the soil at a more consistent temperature. Leaving pine needles under the tree helps them cope with drought and temperature changes, it’s a natural ground cover and mulch.

How trees work and get wider, a quick lession.

Within trees are a series of transportation tubes, one is xylem it carries water up to leaves from the roots. The other is phloem which carries carbohydrates from the leaves down to the roots. These two tubes work together and separate from each other. This is referred to as the plants vascular system also sapwood. Within this vascular system several events happen at the same time. As the tree produces new xylem and phloem this becomes the cambium area which is very close to the outer layer of bark. All tissues produced from this cambium become secondary, this secondary xylem is what constituted wood and what creates tree rings. If this area of bark is removed or damaged this area of cambium will die along with the corresponding branches above the damage. Heartwood is the xylem tubes that no longer function and become filled with insoluble waste like lignins or tannins. As the plant grows the amount of heartwood increase more than sapwood. Phloem and xylem tissues are complex in their rolls within the tree, but damage to them compromises the tree.

Most of us live and try to grow plants at 6,000ft +/altitude. This already puts trees at a disadvantage with dry and droughty conditions. Adding extreme wind and cold I would expect to see damage next spring. What to look for next spring with your trees; winter kill of dormant flower buds on fruit trees, winter burn on evergreen foliage, twig dieback on deciduous trees and general poor growth.

Trees that are best for cold weather, deciduous trees and evergreen trees that are hardy to minus 30 or 40 or USDA Zone 4 and 3 trees. We are not a zone 5 and plants will not over winter well or at all here.

Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference

The Montana Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher Committee will hold their YF&R Leadership Conference January 27-29 at Fairmont Hot Springs. The conference is open to all young producers, agribusiness professionals, students and farming/ranching fans. MFBF’s Young Farmer and Rancher Committee is proud to continue the tradition of this event, formerly known as the Young Ag Leadership Conference. It is the committee’s intention that the integrity of the content presented, the format of the agenda and the intended audience will remain the same as they make this exciting transition.

The conference kicks off Friday evening with a social, dinner and bingo. The breakfast speaker, Courtenay DeHoff, covers ag advocacy, followed by two interactive workshops: a community coalitions panel and an interactive tax discussion. The second round of workshops offers speakers on drought and economic impact forecasts, value-added agriculture success stories and understanding the benefits of biologically active soil.

Donna Moenning with the Center for Food Integrity rounds out the luncheon with her talk on “Imperatives to Engage Generation Z. CFI is a not-for-profit organization whose members and project partners represent the diversity of today’s food system — from farmers, ranchers and food companies to universities, non-governmental organizations, restaurants, retailers and food processors.

The afternoon tour has stops at the Montana Prison Ranch, Headframe Spirits and Underground Butte Historical Tour. Later in the day, the Collegiate Discussion Meet Final Four will take place. The winner of the Collegiate Discussion Meet receives an expense-paid trip to compete in the national competition in at the AFBF FUSION Conference March 3-6 in Jacksonville, Fla. The day wraps up with a pool party and live music. Montana Lieutenant Governor Kristen Juras (invited) wraps up the event as breakfast speaker Sunday, January 29.

“I look forward to this year’s conference and the opportunity to network with other like-minded producers,” said MFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Chair Nick Courville, a rancher from Charlo. “Anything we can do as young producers to add value to our farms and ranches is important. This year’s conference is shaping up to do just that.”

Registration for the MFBF Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference can be completed on the MFBF website, mfbf.org/events. Registration cost is $50 before January 13; $70 after January 13. Attendees are responsible for making their own reservations at Fairmont Hot Springs by January 9 by calling 406-797-3241. Request the YF&R room block, $130 plus tax.

Be sure to follow the official MFBF YF&R Leadership Conference Facebook page for updates leading up to the event.

Sharing and marriage

An old man and his wife went to their local fast-food restaurant. The man placed an order for one hamburger, French fries, and a drink. He unwrapped the plain hamburger and carefully cut it in half, placing one half in front of his wife.

He then carefully counted out the French fries, dividing them into two piles and neatly placed one pile in front of his wife. He took a sip of the drink, his wife took a sip and then set the cup down between them. As he began to eat his few bites of hamburger, the people around them were looking over and whispering.

Obviously, they were thinking, “That poor old couple – all they can afford is one meal for the two of them.”

As the man began to eat his fries a young man came to the table and politely offered to buy another meal for the old couple. The old man said, they were just fine – they were used to sharing everything.

People closer to the table noticed the little old lady hadn’t eaten a bite. She sat there watching her husband eat and occasionally taking turns sipping the drink. Again, the young man came over and begged them to let him buy another meal for them. This time the old woman said “No, thank you, we are used to sharing everything.”

Finally, as the old man finished and was wiping his face neatly with the napkin, the young man again came over to the little old lady who had yet to eat a single bit of food and asked “What is it you are waiting for?”

She answered, “The teeth!”

Critical cold considerations for cattle

By Brad Schick

Livestock performance and survival is affected by wind and temperature. When this occurs, is determined by the lower critical temperature (LCT), or the threshold at which point animals need to start using energy to maintain body heat. A cow with a body condition score of 5 with a dry coat will have a lower critical temperature of 19°F. When this happens, feed intake will need to increase to maintain a suitable body temperature and prevent a drop in body condition in the long run. This stress over time can erode animal condition and have severe impacts when it comes to breed back next year.

Moisture can have a bit more impact on LCTs. A cow with a wet coat will have a lower critical temperature of 53°F, instead of 19°F. Providing animals shelter in bad weather can help keep coats dry and limit wind chill effects, both of which will work to minimize the impact of the cold. Shelter can also help in other ways. Calving success can increase by 2% behind a windbreak according to a Kansas study. In Montana feedlots during severe winters, cattle behind windbreaks gained 10.6 lbs. more than cattle that did not have windbreaks.

With a situation like Nebraska and surrounding states are experiencing this week, grass hay just doesn’t have enough energy to meet this uptick in demand. High quality alfalfa hay usually has a TDN of 58-60% and should meet requirements for dry, good condition animals at windchill temperatures down to -15°F.

When we get even colder, for an extended period, we might want to look at providing some additional supplement for energy. A general rule of thumb we can use is that for every degree of cold stress a cow faces, they increase their energy requirements by 1%. Corn is a great high energy option, but we need to be careful to work it up in a diet slowly. Pair it with free choice hay for fill and make sure not give too much at once to animals whose rumen hasn’t shifted yet. If you have questions about adjusting animal diets to address cold weather stress, your local extension office is a great place to start.

Understanding bull selection tools

By Lisa Moser, K-State Research and Extension news service

Every carpenter knows that having the right tool for the job allows the finished project to be the best it can be, and part of the decision about which tool to use comes with an understanding of how it can assist in the task at hand.

In much the same way, a basic understanding of trait heritability and data accuracy can aid the beef cattle producer in selecting the right bull to best match the needs of the herd, said K-State beef cattle geneticist Megan Rolf on a recent Cattle Chat podcast.

Speaking with the other experts at the Beef Cattle Institute, Rolf talked about the differences in the heritability of cattle traits (how traits are passed down from one generation to the next).

“There are differences among the heritability of traits, and it is helpful to understand those as we make a plan for how to manage the herd,” Rolf said.

Traits that are highly heritable are carcass traits and structure, according to Rolf. She categorized traits that are moderately heritable as growth traits, such as weaning weights. The traits with low heritability include fertility and longevity, she said.

“Knowing the trait heritability will give us a better understanding about how easy it will be to make genetic change,” Rolf said. “Even with a trait that is lowly heritable, we still can make selection progress.”

In the case of fertility, Rolf said that along with using the selection tools, it is also important to manage the cows in a way that favors cattle health.

“We are able to improve fertility by focusing on caring for the cattle in a healthy environment and meeting their nutritional needs appropriately,” Rolf said.

Rolf also added that the beef industry has made progress in improving fertility when producers use Expected Progeny Difference (EPD) calculations in their selection decisions.

She said, “EPDs contain all the information we have about that individual’s genetic merit that is properly weighted based on its source, whether that is individual records or a genomic test.”

She has also seen trends change following the incorporation of EPDs by the beef breed associations.

“If you look at genetic trends over time, as soon as producers decided to put some emphasis on heifer pregnancy through EPDs, there was an improvement in that trait,” Rolf said.

She adds that EPD accuracy is another important factor to weigh in selecting bulls.

“EPD accuracy is the best risk management tool we have from a genetic standpoint,” Rolf said. “The accuracy number tells us how much genetic information goes into that prediction.”

She said that sires used in artificial insemination (A.I.) programs will tend to have higher accuracy numbers because of the volume of offspring that are included in that calculation.

“If you have a trait that is critical, then it is worth considering using an A.I. sire, but we do have a tool that can increase the accuracy of the yearling herd sires: genomic testing,” Rolf said.

She explained that the genomic test is performed by using a DNA sample from the individual.

“When the genomic test is factored into the EPD calculation, it will increase the accuracy and should give breeders more confidence in that EPD prediction,” Rolf said.

Another tip for balancing trait distribution, according to Rolf: “One way we can balance the risk of EPDs changing over time is to use multiple sires in the herd.”

National Blonde Brownie Day

Date When Celebrated: This event is always January 22

National Blonde Brownie Day is a special day that is set aside to bake and eat blonde brownies.

What’s a blonde brownie, you ask? Well, as their name implies, traditional brownies are a dark brown. To make blonde brownies, light brown sugar is used in the recipe in place of dark brown chocolate.

On National Blonde Brownie Day, its your right and responsibility to bake blonde brownies, and to eat them. If you don’t have time to bake today, buy some and eat a few extra blonde brownies.

Note: The use of nuts and frosting on your brownies is optional.

Where alcohol comes from

Ethyl alcohol (the kind you can drink) is created by a process known as fermentation Yeast is added to fruit juice or a “mash” (a cooked mixture of grain and water), and the yeast consumes the sugars, creating two byproducts: carbon dioxide and alcohol. But there’s a natural limit to this process. When the alcohol content of the mixture reaches about 15 percent, the yeast loses its ability to convert any more sugars into alcohol. If you want alcohol with a stronger kick than that, you have to continue on to a second process: distillation.

Distilled spirits are made in a device called a still, which consists of a boiler, a condenser, and a collector. The fermented liquid is heated in the broiler to at least 173 degrees F, the boiling point for alcohol. All the alcohol (and some of the water) boils off in the form of vapor. The vapor flows into the condenser, where it cools back to liquid form and is collected on the collector. The process can be repeated to increase the alcohol content even further.

All distilled liquor is colorless when it is first made, but it can darken during the aging process, especially when aged in wooden barrels or casks. Some manufacturers use caramel or artificial coloring to darken their spirits.

Bar Codes

• Whiskey. The word comes from the Gaelic uisce beatha, meaning “water of life.” It’s alcohol distilled from fermented grains such as barley, rye, corn, wheat, or a combination. In Ireland and the United States, whiskey is spelled with an “e.” In Scotland, Canada, and Japan, it’s spelled whisky.

• Scotch. Whiskey made in Scotland. According to international law, only whiskey made in Scotland may be called Scotch.

• Bourbon. American whiskey of the type originally made in Bourbon County, Kentucky, typically made from 70 percent corn and 30 percent wheat, rye, or other grains. Tennessee whiskey is similar to bourbon, except that it’s produced in–you guessed it– Tennessee. It’s filtered through a ten-foot layer of maple charcoal, which gives it a milder distinctive flavor.

• Brandy. Alcohol distilled from fermented fruit juices. Brandy is short for brandywine, which comes from the Dutch brandewijn, which means “burnt wine.” It can be made from grapes, blackberries, apples, plums, or other fruits. Cognac is a type of brandy produced in the Cognac region of France.

• Gin. Distilled grain alcohol flavored with juniper berries. Sloe gin is gin flavored with sloe berries from the blackthorn bush instead of juniper berries.

• Rum. Alcohol distilled from molasses and sugarcane juice, both of which are by-products of the process used to turn sugarcane into refined sugar.

• Vodka. Distilled alcohol originally made from po -

tatoes, but today mostly made from grain. “Vodka” is the diminutive form of voda, the Russian word for water, and means “little water.” All vodka produced in the United States is required by law to be colorless, odorless, and nearly tasteless, which accounts for its popularity in mixed drinks.

• Sherry. White wine that has been fortified by the addition of distilled spirits. It gets its name from Shareesh, the Arabic name for the town of Jerez in southern Spain, where it originated.

• Port. Fortified red or white wine. It gets its name from the city of Porto in northern Portugal, where it originated.

• Vermouth. Fortified white wine flavored with aromatic herbs and spices. It’s no longer true, but the flavorings were originally used to mask the flavor of interior wines. Vermouth gets its name from wermut, German for wormwood, one of the traditional flavors.

• Cordials. Distilled spirits combined with sweetened fruit pulp or fruit juices. Liqueurs are similar to cordials, except that the flavoring is provided by flowers, herbs, seeds, roots, or the bark of plants. Many traditional cordial and liqueur recipes are centuries old and started out as medicinal products.

Additional detections of Avian Influenza confirmed in Montana

On Thursday, December 15, the Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL) confirmed that Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) killed a small backyard poultry flock in Flathead County. This case marks the 16th HPAI affected flock in the state since the start of the outbreak in March. The 2022 HPAI variant continues to have a significant effect on commercial and backyard flocks, with over 56 million birds in 47 states affected nationally.

Avian influenza is an infectious viral disease of birds that can cause high mortality in domestic flocks. Migratory waterfowl are the primary source of HPAI. Wild birds can be infected and appear healthy but shed virus in the feces, saliva, and respiratory secretions. Domestic poultry become infected through direct contact with wild birds, or through contact with contaminated objects, equipment, or the environment.

“HPAI has impacted over 80,000 domestic birds in Montana.” stated Martin Zaluski, Montana State Veterinarian “The impacts of this year’s disease outbreak are substantial.”

Infected or sick birds can exhibit numerous signs such as swollen eyes, discolored comb and legs, a significant drop in egg production, or decrease in water and feed consumption. However, the most common sign has been sudden death of multiple birds within a flock. This has been the case in Montana where affected flocks have experienced high death loss.

Infected flocks are placed under quarantine and any remaining birds on the premises are required to be depopulated to prevent further disease spread. Flock owners are eligible to receive indemnity on depopulated birds from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition to restrictions on the affected flock, the Department will conduct disease surveillance of poultry premises within 6 miles (10 km) of the affected premises. Surveillance includes contact with premises to inquire about any sick birds and weekly sampling for premises that may sell poultry or poultry products.

Due to ongoing detections, the department has reinstated guidance regarding housing birds indoors, including birds enrolled in certified organic programs, and continues to emphasize the importance of biosecurity. Certified organic producers should contact their certifier before moving birds indoors to ensure program compliance.

Biosecurity measures to protect flocks include: Prevent contact between wild or migratory birds and domestic poultry, including access by wild birds to feed and water sources.

House birds indoors to the extent possible to limit exposure to wild or migratory birds.

Limit visitor access to areas where birds are housed. Use dedicated clothing and protective footwear when caring for domestic poultry.

Immediately isolate sick animals and contact your veterinarian or MDOL.

The department encourages all poultry producers to immediately report sudden onset of illness or high death loss in domestic poultry to their veterinarian or the department at (406/444-2976). If you find sick or dead wild birds that have died from unknown causes, please contact your local FWP Warden, Biologist or Regional office, or call the FWP wildlife veterinarian (406/577-7880).

While HPAI is considered a potentially zoonotic disease, CDC continues to consider the risk to people from wild birds, backyard flocks, and commercial poultry to be low.

Existing safeguards to keep food safe and wholesome are sufficient to protect people, and the food supply in the United States is one of the safest in the world. As a reminder, the US Department of Agriculture recommends cooking poultry to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

The CDC has helpful resources and information regarding the risk for people and pets at http://www.cdc.gov/flu/ avianflu/avian-in-other-animals.htm

Interesting agriculture fact

Farmers today produce 262% more food with 2% fewer inputs (such as seeds, labor, fertilizers) than they did in 1950.

One in three farm acres is planted for export. In 2006, the average American farmer grew enough food for 144 other people. In 1940, the average farmer grew food for 19 other people (which was close to enough food).

Farming employs more than 24 million American workers (17% of the total workforce).

Post-weaning cowherd management

By T.L. Meyer, Nebraska Extension Educator, and Travis Mulliniks, UNL Beef Cattle Nutritionist, Range Production Systems

To build a nutrition program for a cow-calf system, it is important to know the herd’s nutritional requirements, have set trigger points to make rapid changes in nutritional management if needed and know the quality and quantity of your forage resources. With many producers across the state starting to or already weaning calves, it’s a good time to note the body condition score (BCS) of the cowherd. For many spring-calving herds, the time between now and when winter hits is the best time to increase the condition score of the cowherd prior to winter weather. The last chance to economically increase cow BCS during late gestation is the last 90 days prior to calving. However, weather changes and forage availability/quality can make achieving an optimum BCS 60 to 90 days before calving difficult. After that, adding additional body condition on a thin cow that has calved and is lactating can require large amounts of high-quality feeds to meet her increased nutrient requirements.

According to recent weather forecasts (https://mediahub.unl.edu/media/19791), expect a wet and cold Nebraska winter. Although moisture is welcome after another dry year, it can create issues with nutritional

management and cow body condition. When the effective temperature is below the animal’s lower critical temperature, the animal must increase heat production to maintain a constant body temperature. To produce more heat, a cow must either receive more energy from the feed ration or draw on her body stores. Seven days or more of cold, windy or wet weather will increase cow energy requirements 10 to 30%. If hay or forage quality is good, intake will increase; however, the increased intake and overall energy intake may not meet requirements. With low-quality forage, cows will need additional energy supplementation during extreme weather. If cows are not fed enough during cold stress periods, they can easily drop a body condition score (BCS) in 30 days or less. Thin cows going into a wet, cold winter have less body condition or fat reserves available to help offset the lack of dietary energy. These types of cows will be more susceptible to decreased performance and health of both them and subsequent offspring.

Current BCS of the cowherd determines supplementation goals and strategies. Thin (BCS ≤ 4) or young cows can be sorted and fed separately from the mature cowherd. This would allow for more strategic supplementation and decrease overall feed costs. Typically, a cow must gain 75 to 100 lb to increase 1 full BCS, but during late gestation that number increases to account for fetal growth and placental weight. Cows in a BCS of 6 or slightly greater prior to winter influence the winter supplementation strategy,

too. This additional fat cover on the cow can be utilized as an energy supplement to offset potential energy deficiencies. However, this needs to be done mindfully, not allowing cows to lose too much BCS prior to calving.

At the end of the day, BCS is an insurance policy or risk management. It is easier to stay ahead while maintaining adequate BCS than letting cows slip and get behind. Getting behind during late gestation and early lactation can decrease pregnancy rates and calf performance.

Things to consider for winter management: Use body condition score (BCS) as a guide to proactively monitor the cowherd now and throughout the winter

Obtain a nutrient analysis of forage resources

Inventory forage resources by nutrient quality

Sort and manage cowherd by their nutritional needs (thin and young cows vs mature, adequate BCS cows)

Match forage resources (ie., quality of feedstuffs) for each management group to minimize costs

Adjust supplemental energy for periods of cold stress, especially for thin cows

USDA invests in taxpayer education, outreach for farmers and ranchers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is investing in two outreach and education efforts for farmers and ranchers, including those who are new to farming or who have been historically underserved by USDA programs. USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) is investing $10 million for agriculture-oriented taxpayer education as well as $4.5 million in outreach for the Conservation Reserve Program’s Transition Incentives Program (CRP TIP), which helps with access to land for beginning and socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers. Both efforts help advance equity and access to USDA programs and agriculture.

“Running a farm operation is tough, and we are working to help meet gaps where farmers need assistance,” said Maureen Wicks, FSA Executive Director in Montana. “First, filing taxes for an agricultural operation can be challenging and many agricultural producers may not have the funds to hire accountants or tax professionals to assist, especially for new and historically underserved producers. This new initiative offers support to producers in navigating tax season. Second, we want to make sure producers are aware of our many program options, and Conservation Reserve Program Transition Incentives Program (CRP TIP) provides a unique opportunity for producers with expiring CRP land to help bring new farmers into the fold.”

Taxpayer Education

FSA’s $10 million investment funds the new Taxpayer Education and Asset Protection Initiative. As part of the first phase of this work, FSA has established a partnership with the University of Arkansas and the National Farm Income Tax Extension Committee. This partnership is establishing hubs for taxpayer education while developing and delivering tax education resources to farmers, ranchers, agricultural educators and tax professionals through partnerships with stakeholders and minority- serving institutions across the country.

Many producers are not aware that receiving USDA program funds for activities, such as conservation contracts, disaster assistance payments, and pandemic relief are taxable income, and need support to assist with short- and long-term business planning associated with their program payments. To address these issues, FSA is investing in partnerships with the University of Arkansas, the National Farm Income Tax Extension Committee and other partners to develop and deliver taxpayer education to producers to help them better understand the important relationships between federal income taxes and USDA farm programs. The next phases of this work will include a suite of online resources for producers, continuing education opportunities for tax attorneys and CPAs, as well as cooperative agreement funding and training opportunities for stakeholder organizations.

“Many rural areas lack legal and certified accounting services, and agricultural producers need additional knowledge and/or resources to integrate tax planning into their financial planning,” said Ronald L. Rainey, Assistant Vice President of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. “This partnership will help the University of Arkansas and USDA work together to overcome inequalities in tax services to serve agriculture communities.”

These tax education partnerships focus on addressing the immediate needs of producers by delivering agricultural tax and asset protection training and information to farmers as well as developing infrastructure

to support rural taxpayer education and tax preparation for limited resource, beginning, and historically underserved farmers and ranchers for the long term.

Tax Estimator Tool

Additionally, USDA is updating and expanding online tax resources for producers, including the new Tax Estimator Tool, an interactive spreadsheet that producers can download to estimate tax liability. It is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered tax or legal advice. Producers may need to work with a tax professional to determine the correct information to be entered in the Tax Estimator Tool. The tool is available at ruraltax.org.

Available Funding for CRP TIP Outreach

TIP provides financial incentives to CRP participants with expiring contracts, if they sell or rent the land to a beginning producer, veteran farmer or rancher, or a producer from a socially disadvantaged group.

FSA is making available up to $4.5 million in funding and expects to award 15 to 20 partner and stakeholder organizations to conduct outreach and provide technical assistance to promote awareness and understanding of CRP TIP among agricultural communities, in particular those who are military veterans, new to farming, or historically underserved.

Eligible stakeholders include Federallyrecognized Indian tribal organizations, State governments, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and higher education institutions. Interested stakeholders may submit one-to-two-year proposals, and must submit their applications via Grants.gov by October 14, 2022.

Deputy Under Secretary Montaño added: “This technical assistance funding will be critical in helping our external stakeholders connect contract holders to beginning producers, and make sure landowners understand TIP.”

CRP TIP Training for Staff

FSA will also train field employees on CRP TIP to improve and increase staff and producer awareness and support participation. Training will help staff understand the larger issues that can affect landowners’ considerations around CRP TIP and allow them to further help producers.

More Information

Producers interested in CRP TIP and other USDA programs should contact their local USDA Service Center to learn more or to apply for programs.

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Teacher: “If I gave you 2 cats and another 2 cats and another 2, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven.”

Teacher: “No, listen carefully... If I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven.”

Teacher: “Let me put it to you differently. If I gave you two apples, and another two apples and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Six.”

Teacher: “Good. Now if I gave you two cats, and another two cats and another two, how many would you have?”

Johnny: “Seven!”

Teacher: “Johnny, where in the heck do you get seven from?!”

Johnny: “Because I’ve already got a cat!”

USDA scientists produce nanobodies in plant cells that block emerging pathogens

Autumn Canaday, ARS

Scientists at the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) recently announced that plants could be used to produce nanobodies that quickly block emerging pathogens in human medicine and agriculture. These nanobodies represent a promising new way to treat viral diseases, including SARSCoV-2.

Nanobodies are small antibody proteins naturally produced in specific animals like camels, alpacas, and llamas.

ARS researchers turned to evaluating nanobodies to prevent and treat citrus greening disease in citrus trees. These scientists are now using their newly developed and patented SymbiontTM technology to show that nanobodies can be easily produced in a plant system with broad agricultural and public health applications. As a proof-ofconcept, researches showed that nanobodies targeting the SARS-CoV-2 virus could be made in plant cells and remain functional in blocking the binding of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to its receptor protein: the process responsible for initiating viral infection in human cells.

“We initially wanted to develop sustainable solutions to pathogens in crop production,” said ARS researcher Robert Shatters,

Jr. “The results of that research are indeed successful and beneficial for the nation’s agricultural system. But now we are aware of an even greater result — the benefits of producing therapeutics in plants now justify the consideration of using plants to mass produce COVID-19 protein-based therapies.”

AgroSource, Inc. collaborated with USDA-ARS to develop the plant-based production system. They are currently taking the necessary steps to see how they can move this advancement into the commercial sector.

“This is a huge breakthrough for science and innovative solutions to agricultural and public health challenges,” said ARS researcher Michelle Heck. “This costefficient, plant-based system proves that there are alternative ways to confront and prevent the spread of emerging pathogens. The approach has the potential to massively expand livelihood development opportunities in rural agricultural areas of the nation and in other countries.”

This research collaboration is in response to the White House’s Executive Order on advancing biotechnology and biomanufacturing innovation for a sustainable, safe, and secure American bioeconomy.

Montana Hereford Breeders

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

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

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

J Bar E Ranch 406-765-7068, Plentywood, MT

L Bar W Cattle Company 406-425-2484, Absarokee, MT www.lbarw.com

K & C Herefords 406-240-9301, Deer Lodge, MT Sparks Herefords 406-778-2320, Plevna, MT www.sparksherefords.com

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

Thomas Herefords 406-544-1536, Gold Creek, MT

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

SALE

Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference

From the MSU News Service

The annual Western Montana Grazing and Agriculture Conference, scheduled for Jan. 19-20 in Missoula, will focus on opportunities in agriculture in western Montana. The two-day conference is hosted by Montana State University Extension in Missoula County, the Missoula Conservation District and the Lake County Conservation District.

The conference will highlight innovative strategies and marketing options that producers use to manage land and create viable land stewardship models for increasingly fractured plot sizes and uses of agricultural lands in western Montana, according to Patrick Mangan, MSU Extension horticulture agent in Missoula County.

Presentations will cover value-added agricultural opportunities; weed and rodent management on farms; grazing and pasture management for horses, cows and other ruminants; irrigation management; and other topics of interest to landowners, regardless of the size of their property.

Cory Miller, owner of Grass Valley Farms in Missoula, is the keynote speaker. He will present the methods he uses to support soil health, grazing management and an ecosystems approach to land management. Grass Valley Farms integrates fungal communities into its soils, uses virtual fencing systems to manage cattle and other strategies to improve land and soil health.

The conference will be held at the Doubletree by Hilton Missoula Edgewater hotel, 100 Madison St. The $50 registration fee includes lunch Thursday, a social hour that evening and breakfast Friday morning. Participants may register online at missoulaeduplace.org/event/23735 and find more details at lakecountyconservationdistrict.org/2023-westernmontana-grazing-and-ag-conference/.

For additional information, contact Mangan at 406-2584205 or patrick.mangan@montana.edu.

Add land to your shopping lists

By Trampus Corder, Certified Crop Advisor and Broker/Owner of Corder and Associates, LLC

After a busy couple of weeks hustling to get packages wrapped and mailed, people have had their attention redirected. There have been holiday parties at the office and friends and family visiting. Everyone’s been baking goodies and hanging up decorations. You may think that postponing your land search until after the busy holidays and winter months is the way to go but continuing your search amid all the distractions is quite smart. Let me share with you why.

Cold temperatures may dissuade you from checking out land listings but fall and winter are the perfect times to see the lay of the land. Trees are bare and easy to see past. Bright white snow covering the ground makes an excellent contrast to formations and timber. Winter access is usually a common concern. Now you can evaluate those private country roads and whether you’ll be able to pass during winter months.

In the world of real estate, land sales are slightly cool when November comes around. With people actively looking, you can take advantage of potentially making a deal! Land prices often reflect the lull of the market at this time and sellers are apt to deal with a buyer willing to move quickly even if it means accepting a lower price. There are typically fewer buyers looking at land during the winter months so this gives you an opportunity and a competitive edge.

A covering of snow takes the risk of stumbling on snakes or getting attacked by mosquitos out of the equation. Adding layers and some boots can be more appealing than hiking around in the scorching heat of summer. What’s more, your lender might be able to offer you a better deal on financing. Generally speaking, interest rates are lower in the fall and winter months. If you’re looking at the whole picture, that could save you thousands over the lifetime of a loan. Lenders are also competing for your business and may be more open to negotiating terms. Fewer buyers results in less paperwork for title companies and closings can be relatively quick.

It is a smart move to look for land during the cold season. Are you ready to get out there? It’s a big decision to purchase land, so consult with a land specialist to ensure you are welleducated on the ins and outs of any real estate transaction.

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Pete Conrad took matching beanie hats for his crew on Apollo 12 in 1969. Well, not entirely matching, because Conrad’s had a propeller.

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New podcast series examines sharing Western landscapes with wolves

The first season of a new podcast from Montana State University Extension and the Western Landowners Alliance digs into why finding a shared vision for wolf recovery in the lower 48 is important both for agricultural production and wildlife conservation. It also examines what this shared vision would mean for the future of wolves and working lands in the Western U.S. Jared Beaver, MSU Extension wildlife specialist, and Alex Few, coordinator of the Western Landowners Alliance’s Working Wild Challenge program, host the show, which is called “Working Wild University.” The podcast talks with the ranchers, biologists, outfitters and advocates working to sustain productive, resilient and connected rural landscapes, wildlife populations and human communities.

“We set out to make a show that really dives into the nuance of these complicated issues, without losing the landscape and the people at the heart,” said Few. “So, you’ll hear the working lands of the West, in all their struggle and glory, in each episode.”

The 13-episode season was recorded in eight states over more than eight months, with visits to dozens of ranches and conversations with historians, biologists, ranchers, agency personnel and other experts. Meanwhile, both Beaver, who has a doctorate in wildlife biology, and Few, who has a decade of experience with USDA-Wildlife Services and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, bring considerable expertise to hosting the show.

COVID-19’s impact on face-to-face interactions led Beaver

to look for new ways to reach more Montanans with important wildlife management information, he said.

“Podcasting is an especially important tool for modern agricultural Extension,” said Beaver. “This is especially true in the West, where producers have a lot of windshield time.”

This first season of the podcast explores how producers and wildlife managers across the West are working with expanding wolf populations and how that relates to wolf behavior and biology, Few noted. He added that the team aimed to create a show that can provide value to seasoned ranchers and urban wildlife enthusiasts alike.

“Without a shared vision for the future of Western landscapes, and wolves in particular, I fear disagreements will only continue,” said Few. “That isn’t helpful for the kind of deep curiosity and creative thinking we will need to create a future where landscapes, wildlife and people all thrive.”

“Working Wild University” joins the Natural Resources University podcast network, a suite of shows from wildlife Extension specialists around the country. The first three episodes of Season 1 — “Wolves in the West” — are now available, with new episodes released weekly into 2023. Readers can find more information, listen and subscribe at workingwild.us.

“Working Wild University” was produced with financial support from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and the Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program.

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Reddig Equipment and Repair

LOADERS

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Coccidiosis affecting calves in North Dakota

Ranchers in North Dakota have been observing calves showing signs of coccidiosis this fall and winter, according to Gerald Stokka, North Dakota State University Extension’s veterinarian.

Coccidiosis is an intestinal disease that affects several different animal species. In cattle, it may produce clinical symptoms in animals from 1 month to 1 year of age, but it can infect all age groups.

Coccidia is a protozoan parasite that has the ability to multiply rapidly and cause clinical disease.

“Coccidia are very host-specific; that is, only cattle coccidia will cause disease in cattle,” Stokka says. “Other species-specific coccidia will not cause disease in cattle.”

The major damage to calves is the result of the rapid multiplication of the parasite in the intestinal wall and the subsequent rupture of the cells of the intestinal lining.

Several stages of multiplication occur before the final stage, the oocyst (egg), is passed in the feces. Oocysts are extremely resistant to environmental stress and are difficult to remove from the environment completely. Oocysts must undergo a final process called sporulation before they are infective again.

Oocysts frequently contaminate feed and water. When the sporulated oocysts are ingested by other animals, they start their life cycle over in the new host.

Symptoms

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In weaned calves, clinical signs of coccidiosis may develop following stressful events such as weather changes, or if the calves are in conditions such as being fed and eating off the ground. The conditions this fall and winter, with the ground not frozen under the snow, may have increased the risk of coccidiosis infections.

“Symptoms or signs of coccidiosis will depend on the stage of the disease at the time of observation,” says Dr. Stokka.

In general, coccidiosis affects the intestinal tract and creates symptoms associated with it. In mild cases, calves only have a watery diarrhea, but in most cases, blood is present in the feces. Straining, along with rapid dehydration, weight loss and anorexia (off feed), may be evident.

Animals that survive for 10 to 14 days may recover; however, permanent intestinal damage may occur. The lesions associated with coccidiosis that are found after death generally are confined to the cecum, colon, ileum and rectum.

Laboratory findings should be correlated with clinical signs for a diagnosis because other infectious diseases such as salmonella and bovine viral diarrhea virus also may lead to blood in the stool, Stokka notes.

The susceptibility of animals to coccidiosis varies.

“Coccidiosis frequently is referred to as an opportunist, which is a disease that will develop when other stress factors are present or when exposure to the oocysts is overwhelming,” Dr. Stokka says.

“The life cycle of coccidiosis in calves is approximately 21 days,” he adds. “This means that if a weaned calf is showing signs and symptoms of coccidiosis at 3 weeks after weaning, then the calf was exposed to the oocysts at weaning time. The logical conclusion is that weaning pens are contaminated.”

Treatment

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Infected animals must be treated for the infection and to correct dehydration. Producers should select the proper drugs in consultation with their veterinarian. Sulfa drugs and a therapeutic dose of amprolium are available to treat coccidiosis. Antibiotics may be necessary if secondary bacterial infections are suspected.

Products also are available for treating the entire group of calves, Stokka says. Treatment and prevention are most effective when started early.

Prevention

Dr. Stokka and Karl Hoppe, Extension livestock systems specialist, suggest these steps to prevent coccidiosis: Move weaning or receiving pens to a clean area free of contamination.

•

Buckets

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Increase the amount of space per calf at weaning.

Feed an additive that can reduce the presence of coccidia.

“Feeding a coccidiostat (decoquinate or amprolium) or an ionophore (monensin or lasalocid) at weaning will reduce the risk of disease,” Hoppe says. “Be sure to follow label claims because each product will have slightly different label claims.”

“Feeding an ionophore to the cows for reducing the overall coccidia parasites present in the environment also has the benefit of improving feed efficiency,” he adds.

Inaugural Montana AgTech Innovation & Investment Summit

The Montana Department of Agriculture, Montana State University, Montana Agricultural Business Association, and Montana Agricultural Business Foundation announce the inaugural Montana AgTech Innovation & Investment Summit set for January 24, 2023, in Great Falls, MT.

The summit will bring together innovators, entrepreneurs, agriculture producers, agricultural industry product development professionals, and capital investors with the primary goal of moving agricultural technologies from concept stage to development stage, then into the hands of agriculture producers and their markets.

Join researchers, entrepreneurs, capital allocators, fund managers, industry executives, and public economic development leaders who unite to raise capital, negotiate deals, and lean into developing the burgeoning climate for Montana’s growth in Ag Tech and Innovation. Opportunities include a speed pitch session, panel discussion from supporting venture capitalists and investor experts, discussions with Montana’s Ag Influencers, and several slotted networking segments.

The speed pitch session consists of innovators and startups pitching their new and dynamic solution for 60 seconds from the event’s main stage. Members of the audience will vote for the top two in each category. These audience selected winners will have the opportunity later in the event to pitch their solution to a panel of investor experts.

A call for presentations, sponsorship support, and attendance will be coming in the next few weeks. To request more information, please email mtagtechsummit@gmail.com or visit https://www.mtagtechinvest.io.

To learn more about the Montana AgTech Innovation & Investment Summit and view a tentative agenda, please visit https://www.mtagtechinvest.io

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

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A: Of course. The Empire State Building can’t jump.

Safely use standby generators for emergency power

An emergency source of power is important during a winter storm for farms with critical equipment, and for homes for pumps, appliances and heating, particularly in areas that may experience power interruption.

“A standby electric generator could prevent costly losses during a power failure,” says Ken Hellevang, North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension agricultural engineer. “However, you need to follow some basic safety rules when using a standby generator.”

Do not operate the generator in an enclosed or partially enclosed space. Gasoline or diesel engines may produce deadly levels of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide. Carbon monoxide can accumulate in a building even with a large door, such as an open garage door. Wind blowing into an attached garage can push the carbon monoxide into the house and lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. If a generator is operated in an enclosed building, the engine exhaust must be vented outdoors away from the building using engine exhaust ducting.

Choose a generator that provides the power at the same voltage and frequency as the power lines supply, according to Hellevang. Most power lines supply 120/240-volt, single-phase, 60-cycle alternating current to homes and farms.

To help you buy the proper size generator, you need to decide what you must keep running, such as a sump pump and furnace or certain farm equipment, Hellevang says.

Motors typically require four times the power to start as they do to run. Estimate power requirements from equipment nameplates when possible. As a guide, electric motors require approximately 4,000 watts of power to start and 1,000 watts of power to run for every horsepower of output.

A typical home operating a water pump, refrigerator, freezer, furnace blower (gas furnace) and a few lights will require around 5,000 watts of peak usage for starting and 2,000 watts for continuous operation.

Separate electrical equipment normally is plugged into a smaller generator. Extension cords must be properly sized based on the electrical load and distance from the generator. The proper voltage may not be provided to a motor at the end of a very long extension cord, which will cause damage to the motor.

Do not connect the generator to a home or farm electrical system without a transfer switch that disconnects the farm or home from the power line and connects to the generator. The wiring system must be isolated from the power lines using a double-throw transfer switch to prevent the generator from feeding electricity back into the power line. This protects linemen who may be working to restore your service. Also, without a double-throw switch, the generator can be ruined due to overload.

Follow the operator’s manual to properly provide electrical power. Instructions might include:

Turn off or disconnect all electrical equipment.

Start the unit and bring the generator up to proper speed. The voltmeter will indicate when the generator is ready to carry the load.

Check the voltmeter frequently. If the voltage falls below 200 for 240-volt service or 100 for 120-volt service, reduce the load on the generator by shutting off some electrical equipment.

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For more information, including a video that walks you through the safety protocols of using a portable generator for emergency power, visit ndsu.ag/generators.

National Pharmacist Day

When is National Pharmacist Day? This holiday is always observed on January 12

National Pharmacist Day is today, a January 12 holiday. It honors pharmacists and recognizes their important role in medical care. A Pharmacist must be knowledgeable of the chemistry of all medicines. They can inform you of a drug’s side effects, and all aspects of prescription medicine. Very importantly, they understand and recognize the interaction of drugs together…many people take numerous drugs.

National Pharmacist Day recognizes the important role of Druggists. If you are in the pharmacy today, make sure to wish your pharmacist a good day. Gifts and cards are not required.

Preparation is key to a successful calving season

Kansas State University veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek said being prepared ahead of calving season is the best way for producers to assure they will bring home the newborn calves successfully.

“We’re approaching the end of the second trimester and moving into the third trimester which means the metabolic demands of that cow or heifer are going to increase tremendously,” Hanzlicek said.

A key to having a successful calving and production season is for cows and heifers to be in the appropriate body condition, which according to Hanzlicek is a score of 5-7. He said he has seen many cattle in the 3-4 range in the past few months.

“We’re far enough away from calving that we can add condition to these cows and heifers without (creating) an economic burden,” he said. “It really comes down to having a formulated ration that is balanced for protein and energy.”

For those wanting to add scour vaccines to their prevention program, “it’s time to decide what vaccine they are going to use,” Hanzlicek said. “Look at the label and schedule on the calendar when they need to start vaccinating the cows and heifers.”

Hanzlicek said heifers will require two doses of the scours vaccine, while cows need one. The timing of those vaccines is “very, very important,” he said.

Also, Hanzlicek recommends establishing a clean calving area to help reduce the risk of scours. “There’s two major risk factors for scours,” he said. “One is the lack of colostrum consumption. The other is a contaminated environment that the babies are born into.”

Hanzlicek recommends having a location to move the pairs off the calving area to keep the calving facility less contaminated with the scour organisms.

Getting the calf here safely is another factor to consider, “Most operations are going to have to help at least one animal during the calving season,” Hanzlicek said. The last national survey indicated that 1 of every 100 heifers and 2 of every 100 adult cows will need assistance.

Being prepared to pull a calf is important. Hanzlicek said producers should have the following items on hand: Clean straps or chains.

OB sleeves.

Lube.

Working calf pullers. Veterinarian’s phone number.

Intervening at an appropriate time is important. “If we intervene too early and the cow or heifer is not dilated, we can injure the tissues and hurt the calf,” Hanzlicek said. “If we intervene too late, a lot of times that’s when we end up with stillborn calves.”

According to Hanzlicek,

once a cow has reached the second stage of labor, they should give birth within 30 minutes. A heifer should calve within an hour. Second stage labor is when the heifer or cow can be observed experiencing uterine contractions, or the water-bag or calf’s feet are visible.

If assistance from the producer is needed, and they are unable to extract the calf within 15 minutes, then help – either a veterinarian or someone with more experience -- should be called.

Following calving, the calf should be up and nursing within two hours, Hanzlicek said. If not, a colostrum replacer can be given to help get the calf started.

“Colostrum-based powders are the best way to go, and I would recommend that every producer have one or two bags of powder replacer on hand during the calving season,” Hanzlicek said.

#####

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NDSU Feedlot School set for January 18-19

Cattle producers, feeders, backgrounders, feed industry personnel, animal healthcare suppliers and others will have an opportunity to learn more about feedlot production, nutrition, manure management and marketing during the annual North Dakota State University Feedlot School set for January 18-19, 2023, at NDSU’s Carrington Research Extension Center.

“Feeding cattle is an old business with new techniques,” says Karl Hoppe, Extension livestock systems specialist. “Making cattle feeding profitable is usually a result of doing many things right, not just one thing better. The Feedlot School helps identify areas for improvement, ranging from feed bunk management to health to business planning to marketing.”

Feedlot school topics will include:

Why feed cattle in North Dakota?

Animal nutritional requirements and feeding

Implant technologies

Feed additives

Ration formulation

Bunk reading and feed delivery

Livestock stewardship

Beef quality assurance

Facility development and management

Disease diagnosis, treatments and health programs

Differences in feeding profitability

Manure and nutrient management

Carcass quality and marketing on the grid

Using market information for strategic planning

Budgeting

The school also will include a tour of a commercial feedlot and the Research Extension Center’s livestock facilities. Faculty from NDSU’s Department of Animal Sciences, and the Carrington, Hettinger and Central Grasslands Research Extension Centers, as well as others who have extensive experience working with Northern Plains feedlots, are instructors for the school.

“The regional cattle experts who teach at the school provide a good overview of management for North Dakota feeders, and the outreach or interaction with the participants continues for years after the school,” says Mary Keena, Extension livestock environmental management specialist.

The registration fee is $175 for one person from an operation, and $100 for each additional person from the same operation. All meals and a USB flash drive with supporting documents are included with the registration.

The deadline to register is January 15 or when the class reaches capacity. The fee does not include lodging. Register online at www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/events/ndsufeedlot-school.

Lodging is available at the Chieftain Conference Center, 701- 652-3131; Carrington Inn and Suites, 701-652-3982; or Cobblestone Inn, 701-652-3000.

For more information about the course or to register, contact Hoppe at 701- 652-2951 or karl.hoppe@ndsu.edu, Mary Keena at 701-652-2951 or mary.keena@ndsu.edu, or Colin Tobin at 701-652-2951 or colin.tobin@ndsu.edu.

The Carrington Research Extension Center is 3.5 miles north of Carrington on U.S. Highway 281.

Roll Model: Leo Hill

Hill, a retired maintenance worker in Denver, Colorado, started on his mission back in 2006 when his wife noticed that rolls of toilet paper sold in packs of four lasted four days, but the same rolls sold in packs of twelve-packs were used up in only three. So Hill started counting the individual sheets of toilet paper he used at every “pit stop,” and tallied the figures on flattened toilet paper tubes. After using nine rolls, he found that on average each roll contained 156.75 squares even though the packaging claimed the rolls contained 198 squares–a shortage of 41.25 rolls, or just over 20 percent.

Hill shared his findings with Georgia-Pacific, the company that makes his brand of toilet paper. They thanked him and sent him a coupon for a dozen rolls of toilet paper. When those rolls came up short too, he reported the company to the Denver Business Bureau. No word on whether Hill deserves the credit, but by the time the Denver Post repeated his experiment a few years later, all the rolls they tested has as many sheets of toilet paper as advertised, and some had up to 10 percent extra. “I’m sure glad you got a good roll,” he told the newspaper. “It’s really only important when you run out.”

ARS releases first USDA winter peas for food, not feed

Kim Kaplan, ARS

USDA MiCa, USDA Dint and USDA Klondike, the first winter pea cultivars specifically developed to be used whole or as an ingredient in human food, have been released by the Agricultural Research Service.

Winter or autumn-sown peas (Pisum sativum)—also called “black peas” or “field peas”—are annual legumes with excellent nitrogen-fixing abilities. They, and related pea species, originated in the eastern Mediterranean and western Asia. They should not be confused with cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata), which are also known as field peas, and usually grown in the southern states.

Currently, winter peas are mostly grown in the Pacific Northwest as a cover crop to add nitrogen to farmers’ fields, for domestic animal feed and to attract deer and other game species. They also are sometimes used in a crop rotation with winter wheat in semi-arid areas of the Pacific Northwest.

“With a typical rotation of winter wheat–summer fallow, farmers really need a broadleaf crop to improve the sustainability of the system. Still, until now winter peas haven’t provided enough of a return to be a cash crop,” explained geneticist Rebecca McGee with the ARS Grain Legume Genetics Physiology Research Unit in Pullman, Washington. “Fallsown, food quality, winter peas are poised better to fill that gap biologically and economically.”

But winter peas have much more potential value as an ingredient for human foods. These three new varieties offer several prized qualities: 1) high protein levels with a nearly complete amino acid profile 2) peas lack the allergens common in soybeans and peanuts, which are often the supplier of protein 3) a favorable, low glycemic index number and 4) winter peas are not genetically modified, all of their development is being done with traditional breeding.

As a food ingredient, the winter peas can be used to provide the protein in protein-starch-fiber slurries used as part of producing nondairy milk, energy bars, non-wheat flour pastas, and baked goods. Some of the food products that contain pea protein as an ingredient include Beyond Meats, numerous brands of protein powder, and many trail mixes.

Winter Austrian peas were first introduced to the Pacific Northwest, primarily in Idaho, in 1932. When World War II curtailed the availability of nitrate fertilizers, many farmers turned to winter Austrian peas as a replacement to add nitrogen to their soil. But the small, dark colored peas were not acceptable for human food use.

“Still, U.S. regulations remained on the books that allowed only spring-planted peas to be sold in the food quality markets,” explained McGee. “Once the regulations were changed in

2009 so the quality characteristics of the harvested seeds, not the planting season, dictated the purposes for which the crop can be sold, it allowed winter peas to enter the much more economically rewarding food quality distribution channels and opened the potential for widespread winter pea production.”

McGee began her breeding program in 2010, selecting for human food-oriented traits.

The three new varieties:

MiCa: A cross of a USDA winter pea with Arwyn, a spring pea with resistance to Pea Seed-borne Mosaic Virus that produces large, smooth green seeds. The name comes from combining the first letters of two of McGee’s mentors in breeding winter peas.

Dint: Produces large, smooth green seeds with a slight dimple. The name is from the Middle English word for a dent made by a blow.

Klondike: Produces large, highly desirable dark yellow seeds invoked by the Klondike’s connection to the gold rush era. Yellow seeds mean food producers don’t have to remove color during processing.

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MSU Extension and MSGA announce 2022 Steer of Merit certifications

A program offered by Montana State University Extension and the Montana Stockgrowers Association that provides an opportunity for students throughout the state to raise cattle and learn about various elements of beef quality recently announced its annual winners.

The 2022 Steer of Merit program winners were recognized December 8 at the Montana Stockgrowers Association annual convention and trade show in Billings.

MSU Extension and MSGA distinguished 154 “Steers of Merit” out of 1,288 entries. Of 555 steers entering the carcass division, 78 were deemed Steers of Merit. In the ultrasound division, 76 out of 734 entries received the distinction. The number of Steer of Merit certifications for 2022 declined slightly compared to 2021, according to Megan Van Emon, MSU Extension beef cattle specialist. More counties participated in the ultrasound contest this year due to the lack of packing plant facilities and space, Van Emon added.

The top five steer entries in the ultrasound division were:

Kayli Cook, Montana Fair (Vanek Club Calves, breeder)

Sy Carda, Richland County (Brent Carda, breeder)

Dani Hess, Montana Fair (Shay Family Livestock, breeder)

Dallas Berkram, Marias Fair (Diamond Box Livestock, breeder)

MaRae Smail, Marias Fair (Dunbar Brothers, breeder).

The top five steer entries in the carcass division were:

Shelby Taylor, Lake County (Shelby Taylor, breeder)

Ladahlia Hook, Flathead County (Toby Hook, breeder)

Colton Noyes, Broadwater County (KD Cattle Co, breeder)

Samuel Simonson, Phillips County (Shon Simonson, breeder)

Isaac Eaton, Prairie County (Frank Eaton & Sons, breeder).

The Montana Steer of Merit program started in 1967 as a joint effort between the Montana Stockgrowers Association and MSU Extension to measure, record and improve carcass traits in beef cattle. Over time, significant increases have been made in quality grade and yield grade, or cutability, indicating that cattle can be selected for leaner carcasses with higher cutability while maintaining high-quality grade as reflected by their marbling, Van Emon said.

To be a Steer of Merit, carcasses are evaluated for yield of lean meat and eating quality. Beef carcasses must meet criteria set by the Steer of Merit Committee in the areas of hot carcass weight, dressing percent, fat thickness over the 12th rib (back fat), rib eye area, yield grade, percent cutability and quality grade. Data is compiled and used to rank carcasses for state and county awards, and it is analyzed periodically to track genetic and feed management progress. The minimum standards for Steer of Merit are reviewed each year.

For more information about the Steer of Merit program, call Van Emon at 406-874-8286 or megan.vanemon@montana.edu.

Bittersweet Chocolate Day

When is Bittersweet Chocolate Day? This holiday is always observed on January 10 Fellow chocoholics, today is Bittersweet Chocolate Day, a January 10 holiday. In case you didn’t get enough chocolate and sweets over the long holidays, here is a chance to delve into some bittersweet chocolate. Did you really need a reason to indulge!?

While milk chocolate may be the most popular type of chocolate, bittersweet chocolate has its place high on our list. Did you know that guys tend to prefer it, while gals usually prefer milk chocolate? Like ’em both!?? That’s perfectly okay…..and normal.

Okay, you know that it tastes really good. But, what distinguishes it from other chocolates? It is a sweeter form of dark chocolate. Unlike milk chocolate, it has no milk. It is darker, and richer than most other chocolates, and is the most popular chocolate for baking.

Did You Know? Americans consume over 3.1 billion pounds of chocolate a year.

Calculating Annual Cow Costs Webinar Series

Knowing annual cow costs is the foundation for evaluating and making management decisions that can improve profitability for a cow-calf enterprise. Significant increases in input costs are challenging producers to examine cost of production and identify where there may be opportunities to adjust the production system. Calculating costs and breaking them into categories gives understanding into where there may be opportunity to make changes.

Nebraska Extension will be hosting a webinar series on Thursday evenings at 7:30-8:30pm CT on January 19, 26 and February 2, 9, 16 and 23. The series will explain the fundamentals of knowing and calculating annual cow costs.

Topics to be covered will include:

Understanding economic unit cost of production for the cow-calf enterprise.

Recognizing the value and cost of both grazed and harvested feed.

Calculating cow depreciation and replacement development costs.

Figuring the cost of equipment and labor utilized in the cow-calf enterprise.

Examining breeding expenses and evaluating the value and cost relationship.

Reviewing cost and production data to see how you compare.

Cost is $60 per person and includes a resource workbook. The course will be limited to 30 participants. To register go to https://go.unl.edu/cow_costs. Registration is requested by Jan. 12 to ensure pre-meeting preparation material is available to participants.

A computer and internet connection will be needed to participate in the webinar series.

For questions about the webinar series or for more information, please contact Aaron Berger, Nebraska Extension Educator at 308-235-3122 or aberger2@unl.edu.

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Separating heifers and cows in the months before calving

By Lisa Moser, K-State Research and Extension news service

Metabolisms change throughout life, and consequently so do one’s nutritional needs. This is not only true for people, but for animals as well, said the veterinarians at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute on a recent Cattle Chat podcast.

In the case of cattle, they advise that producers group first-calf heifers away from the mature cows in the months before calving.

“It is important to separate heifers and cows because of their different nutritional needs,” veterinarian Bob Larson said. He explained that bred heifers are about 80-85% of their mature weight, giving them a 200-pound disadvantage when grouped in with the cows.

He said the reason that is worth noting is because of the dominance that cows place over heifers.

“A cow will often not let a younger animal have complete access to feed and water, so it is important to give the younger, smaller heifers their own space where they don’t have to compete as much,” Larson said.

There is also a difference in the type and timing of the feed supplementation between cows and heifers, said beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster.

“If I start feeding the cowherd like I would a growing replacement heifer, those cows are going to be overconditioned going into the calving season,” Lancaster said. “Hopefully, those bred heifers will calve 30 days ahead of the rest of the herd so they will need to be switched to a lactation type of diet earlier than the cow herd will need to be.”

From a health standpoint, veterinarian Brian Lubbers said cows and heifers should be grouped separately.

“Prior to calving, producers will need to increase their observations of the heifers to avoid complications and so for that reason they should be separated,” Lubbers said.

Calving in a barn versus a pasture

The K-State experts also discussed the producer’s decision on whether to calve cows in a facility or on pasture.

“Whether you calve the cows out on pasture or in a barn will depend on where you live and what the potential is for severe weather,” Lubbers said.

Calving in a barn does increase the risks for sickness, said Larson, and therefore he recommends letting the cows calve on pastures.

“While a warm calving barn is nice for people to work in, the potential for disease spread among the calves is great because of the air quality and concentration of fecal materials and mud,” he said.

And calf loss at birth does happen on occasion, added veterinarian Brad White.

“Post-natal calf mortality is highest in the first 21 days after birth with most occurring in the first 72 hours after they are born,” White said.

Rather than using a calving barn, Larson advised producers to adjust their calving season to avoid the greatest potential for severe weather; however, White cautioned that does mean a tradeoff due to breeding these cattle in the peak of the summer heat.

Winnie the Pooh Day

When is Winnie the Pooh Day? This holiday is always observed on January 18

Winnie the Pooh Day is an opportunity to enjoy your favorite bear and all of his friends. This January 18 holiday was created to celebrate the birth of A.A. Milne in 1882. He was an author of children’s story books and created Winnie the Pooh and his friends. Children will really enjoy this special day. Parents and grandparents and even aunts and uncles enjoy this day, too.

Celebrate Winnie the Pooh Day by reading some storybooks about the adventures of Winnie and his friends. Don’t read them alone. Read them with young children.

Did you Know? In his works, he was known as A.A. Milne. The initials stand for Allan Alexander.

Sharing is caring with fire ant venom

By Jessica Ryan, USDA

Venom is associated with being harmful, but red imported fire ants are using their venom for its medicinal benefits by sharing the toxic substance with their nestmates, according to a study published in the Journal of Insect Physiology.

Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists from the agency’s Biological Control of Pests Research Unit and Southern Insect Management Research Unit in Stoneville, Mississippi, discovered a new way that fire ants use their venom to prevent diseases in their colonies.

“Venom works as a broad spectrum antibiotic and plays an important role in the fire ant social community by suppress-

ing pathogen growth,” said Jian Chen, research entomologist at the Biological Control of Pests Research Unit.

For fire ants, venom has different functions. Fire ants use venomous stings against intruders and immobilize their prey. Fire ants also take advantage of their venom’s antimicrobial properties in disease control by using it as an external surface disinfectant. Foraging ants come into contact with various pathogens in the environment. These pathogens threaten ants; especially when they share food with their nestmates.

“One way to reduce exposure to infection through food is to distribute antibiotics into the digestive system of all individual ants,” said Chen. “Venom is an internal antibiotic in fire ants’ digestive systems.”

To use venom as an internal antibiotic, fire ants share it by feeding the substance to their nestmates, including larvae and adults. In the study, researchers found nitrogenous organic compounds of venom, known as alkaloids, in crops and midguts of larvae. This finding indicates that trophallaxis, the transfer of food from mouth-to-mouth or mouthto-anus feeding, must be involved in the transfer of venom since larvae do not produce alkaloids and depend on worker ants to be fed.

According to Chen, larvae serve as a “communal stomach” for the colony and are the most vulnerable to infection. To keep colonies alive, fire ants must protect the larvae.

Researchers also found that female alates (winged ants) shed their wings after a mating flight, burrow into the soil, and start new colonies. The new queen then provides venom alkaloids to her first batch of larvae in the colony. Then minim ant workers (the first batch of workers in a fire ant colony) emerge

and then take over the role of providing venom to the larvae in the colony. The minim ant workers eventually die out, and the normal ant workers then become the colony’s venom donors. Thus, venom sharing occurs in every stage of colony development.

As a social insect, in addition to individual immunity, fire ants have evolved social immunity based on the interaction among nestmates. This study indicates that venom sharing by feeding may be an essential component of fire and social immunity. This research will help scientists better understand the ways ants work together to avoid epidemics.

2022 Dawson County 4-H dairy cattle show

Town Codes

C = Cozad

G = Gothenburg

It appears the Dairy Show is showing a growth trend. That is good to see. Four dairy showmen entered the Stevens Arena ring with their exhibits this year.

Dairy cattle were shown by their age groups.

SHOWMANSHIP

Both Showmanship Division trophies this year were sponsored by “Wood River Dairy”. In the Junior Division – The show trophy and a purple were awarded to Dallee Barnes (G). Second and third purple ribbons went to Augustus Barnes (G) and Hailey Jensen (C).

In the Intermediate Division – Samual Winter (C) took home the trophy, as well as a purple ribbon.

DAIRY COWS

Winter Heifer Calves – Augustus Barnes

(G) received a purple ribbon on his cow named “Clementine”. Another purple went to Dallee Barnes (G) with “Dolly”.

Winter Yearling – Hailey Jensen (C) was awarded the purple ribbon on her cow named “JoJo”.

Crossbred 2 Yr Old – Purples: Augustus Barnes (G) with “Margo”, and Samual Winter (C) with “Theda”.

3 Yr Olds – Purple: “Theo” the Jersey X Holstein X Brown Swiss garnered Augustus Barnes (G) a purple ribbon. Two blue ribbons were given to Samual Winter (C) for his Angus Jersey cross breed cows named Ava and Martha.

4 Yr Olds – Purple: Dallee Barnes (G) received a purple ribbon with her milking shorthorn named “Dorothy”.

But it was “Dorothy” the Milking Shorthorn who garnered Dallee Barnes with the Champion Dairy Cow. And “Theo” the Jersey cross breed cow led Augustus Barnes to the Reserve Dairy Cow spot.

The Champion Dairy Cow “ Dorothy” is pictured with Terri Uden, Johnsons Lake, presenter of the trophy and rosette and Dallee Barns, Gothenburg, recipient of the trophy,

Gus Barnes, Gothenburg, received the Reserve Champion Dairy Cow trophy and rosette.

Samual Winter, Cozad, earned the Intermediate Division Dairy Cattle Showmaship trophy and purple ribbon.

Ben Beckman

Having hay tested for nutrient quality is critical in getting the most out of the feedstuffs you have. Once the results come back, the next step is understanding the report you’ve received.

The first thing we notice on most feed or hay tests are the results are given in two different groups or columns. One is labeled along the lines of “as received” or “as fed” and another “dry basis.” Understanding the difference in these two columns is key to properly using the information provided when feeding your livestock.

“As received” represents the analysis of the sample as it was provided. This is what we will use to figure out rations or how much hay animals need to be provided. The “dry basis” is the sample after all moisture has been removed and doesn’t accurately represent the sample as it sits in the yard.

So why bother with “dry basis” if we don’t use it to figure feed amounts? Because when it comes to comparing feeds and finding the correct ratios in a ration, we need to compare things on an equal playing field.

For example, we could have a forage test on hay and silage come back as equal on a dry basis for energy, meaning that both feeds would provide the same amount of energy if dried out and fed. For the hay, this is pretty close to reality, but the silage contains much more water as is. Because of this, we would have to feed quite a bit more silage than hay to reach the same amount of energy in the ration, simply due to the extra weight from water.

“As received” and “dry basis” columns, may make a feed report look daunting, but understanding and using both is critical to getting the most out of your feed.

Interesting agriculture fact

Farmers today produce 262% more food with 2% fewer inputs (such as seeds, labor, fertilizers) than they did in 1950.

One in three farm acres is planted for export. In 2006, the average American farmer grew enough food for 144 other people. In 1940, the average farmer grew food for 19 other people (which was close to enough food).

Farming employs more than 24 million American workers (17% of the total workforce).

Q: How can you drop a raw egg onto a concrete floor without cracking it?

A: Any way you want, concrete floors are very hard to crack.

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Q: Why did the painting go to jail?

A: It was framed.

Tractors require extra caution in winter

Snow, ice and cold make operating a tractor more difficult and more dangerous, according to Angie Johnson, North Dakota State University Extension farm and ranch safety coordinator.

“Tractor operators should adjust their tractor maintenance and driving practices for winter conditions from start to finish,” says Johnson. “Problems and hazards are amplified by ice, snow and cold temperatures.”

Fueling up

Diesel tractors require special care in the winter, as the diesel fuel needed in the wintertime must be rated for cold temperatures. Summer blended diesel fuel (#2 diesel) contains paraffin wax. Paraffin wax will become solid once temperatures reach around 32 degrees Fahrenheit. As the wax solidifies due to cold temperatures, the wax solids can become large enough to clog filters, causing the tractor to ”gel up.”

Be prepared for winter conditions by using the following tips:

Use winter grade diesel, such as #1 diesel, to prevent your tractor from gelling up.

Keep emergency diesel fuel additives on hand, as well as replacement fuel filters, in case your tractor becomes gelled during a winter storm or cold temperatures. Emergency additives can be found at your local auto parts store or farm store. Always maintain at least half a tank of fuel in your tractor to prevent fuel line freezing and gelling.

In preparing for a winter storm, fill tractor fuel tanks full in case of power outages. Most fuel tanks on farms have electric pumps, meaning you will not be able to fill your tractor’s fuel tank during a power outage.

Plug-in, warm-up

“In winter conditions, using a 110-volt block heater can be critical to whether or not your tractor will start in cold conditions,” says Johnson.

A block heater warms the engine block of the tractor during cold temperatures so that the tractor’s engine will start. The tractor’s age, make and model will dictate how long to plug in the tractor’s block heater in order for the tractor to start. Newer model tractors may also have glow plugs, a heating device that aids in starting the tractor’s engine.

Talk to your local implement dealer or mechanic to determine how long your tractor’s block heater should be plugged in before starting the tractor.

Read your tractor’s operator manual to understand your tractor’s glow plug requirements, as some tractors may have a switch or a wait-to-start light.

Consider having a spare block heater cord on hand, as cords can easily burn out or become damaged if improperly pulled when unplugging.

Once started, allow the tractor to warm up before driving it. Warming up the tractor allows the engine and fluids to function properly and helps with overall longevity of your tractor.

In the event of a power outage, you may need to plug your tractor’s block heater into a fuel-powered generator before starting.

Checking antifreeze is also important. You should test your antifreeze using an antifreeze tester to determine it can withstand subzero temperatures and if any antifreeze fluid needs to be added. Check your tractor’s operators manual to determine what type of antifreeze you should use in your tractor.

Winter conditions will also challenge your tractor’s batteries. If you notice your tractor’s batteries are becoming weak when starting your tractor, replace the batteries. Trying to jump start or boost your tractor’s batteries multiple times, especially in winter conditions, can be dangerous and result in serious injury from a potential battery explosion.

Tire tread, traction and air pressure

Cold temperatures can cause lower air pressures in tractor tires.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated for winter use by reading the psi ratings listed on the sidewall of the tire or in your tractor’s operators manual.

Make sure tractor tire treads are not worn or heavily cracked, as winter conditions can reduce your tractor’s traction ability.

If using a two-wheel drive tractor, consider using tire chains on the rear wheels, to allow more traction for your tractor in slippery conditions.

When using a loader bucket with grapple forks or bale spear to carry feed, such as a round bale, or the loader

Scott Schmiedeke

(406) 240-2572

Victor, MT

Henry Kallis

(605) 639-1904 Spearfish, SD

See us on the web: www.tte-inc.com

2013 Case 621F, 4655 hours, enclosed cab with heat and AC, ride control, reversing fan, JRB hydraulic coupler, auxiliary hydraulics, 3 CY bucket, very nice radial tires, has been through our shop, all repairs have been done, just serviced, the loader is in excellent condition and job site ready. Located in Spearfish, SD. $109,900

2006 Cat 930G, 5740 hours, enclosed cab with heat and AC, cloth air ride seat, ride control, auxiliary hydraulics, hydraulic coupler, 3 CY bucket with teeth, and segments, nice radial tires, loader has been through our shop, all repairs have been done, just serviced, you won’t find a nicer 930G. Located in Spearfish, SD. $129,900

2008 Cat 924H, 9840 hours, enclosed cab with heat and AC, cloth air ride seat, auxiliary hydraulics, hydraulic quick coupler, 3 CY bucket, pallet forks, this loader is in excellent condition, serviced and job site ready. Located in Spearfish, SD. $94,900

2017 Bobcat T650, 803 hours, EROPS with heat and AC, high flow auxiliary hydraulics, auxiliary electrics, 2-speed travel switchable joystick controls, ride control, track roller suspension, 84” bucket, hydraulic quick attach, stereo, very nice clean and tight machine. Located in Victor, MT $64,900

2005 Cat D6N XL dozer, 7350 hours, EROPS with heat and A/C 10.7’ PAT blade with recent liner installed, 3 shank ripper, Diff-steer, power shift transmission. Transmission and torque converter rebuilt at 5300 hours, complete undercarriage and final drives rebuilt at 5300 hours, all work done by a Cat dealer. New complete Cat engine installed at 7350 hours. $20K spent on rebuilding C-frame pins, bushings and bearings at 7350 hours. This machine is in excellent condition overall. Cat warranty on new engine and documentation for all repairs. Located in Victor, MT $145,000

2015 Deere 135G, 3832+/- hours, enclosed cab with heat and AC, cloth air ride seat, hydraulic thumb, hydraulic coupler, 24” tracks with rubber inserts, 22” bucket with extra set of auxiliary hydraulics. Has been through the shop, all repairs have been done, just serviced, very tight, clean excavator. Located in Spearfish, SD $109,500

2007 Deere 650J LT 4250 hours, EROPS with heat and air conditioning, cloth air ride seat, 6 way PAT 105” blade, 3 shank ripper, sweeps, rear window/AC guarding, undercarriage approximately 65%, has been through the shop and all repairs have been done, just serviced. Located in Spearfish, SD. $99,500

2013 Case 580SN WT, enclosed cab, heat and AC, 3865+/- hours, cloth air ride seat, ride control, power shift transmission, 4x4, changeable pilot controls, extenda-hoe, rear auxiliary hydrualics, backhoe coupler, 24” backhoe bucket, new rear tires, front tires approximately 85%. Super clean, tight backhoe, has been through the shop, just serviced. Located in Spearfish, SD $79,500

Dawson County 4-Her’s to state competition

By Andrea Nisley

The Dawson County 4-H Council announced at the recent 4-H Achievement Barbecue their 4-H nominees to represent Dawson County in the State competition of the 4-H Awards/Incentives program.

The main basis for selection is the growth of the 4-H’er, how they have shared their knowledge with others, and how they have been involved in their community.

The state selection process has changed to ‘Achievement Application’ for the selection of delegates to the National 4-H Congress and National 4-H Conference.

The Dawson County 4-H nominees for National 4-H Congress are as follows:

Preston Beattie, Sumner; Jaden Hunke, Lexington; Addison Luther, Overton; Taylor Kramer, Oconto; and Andrew Kreuscher,

Gothenburg.

Several 4-H’ers earned the opportunity to represent Dawson County in the state selection process for National 4-H Conference. The state selection is based on the Achievement Application and a personal interview. Those 4-H’ers include: Bart Beattie, Sumner; Preston Beattie, Sumner; Karla Herrarte, Lexington; Jaden Hunke, Lexington; Lexi Johnson, Gothenburg; Taylor Kramer, Oconto; Andrew Kreuscher, Gothenburg; Addison Luther, Overton; Emma Luther, Overton; Emma Peterson, Gothenburg; Saidi Ringenberg, Lexington; Sydni Ringenberg, Lexington; Greg Treffer, Cozad; Sarah Treffer, Cozad; Casey Wahlgren, Gothenburg; Jacie Wolfinger, Lexington; and Jaelin Wolfinger, Lexington.

Researchers find way to improve nitrogen uptake in field-grown maize

By Pat Melgares, K-State Research and Extension news service

Researchers at Kansas State University and scientists at one of the United States’ largest agriscience companies say they have found a way to improve the uptake of nitrogen in field-grown maize – likely reducing the environmental impact of applying nitrogen fertilizer to farm fields.

K-State Research and Extension agronomist Ignacio Ciampitti called the discovery “a breakthrough for providing more stable and high yields under challenging environments, (while) reducing dependency on nitrogen fertilization and growing more environmentally sustainable corn.”

Farmers often use nitrogen fertilizer to improve yields in their crops. A challenge, however, is to keep nitrogen in the field where crops can use it for growth, rather than nitrogen escaping to nearby waterways.

Scientists from Corteva Agriscience have developed hybrids in which they are able to regulate when, where and the degree to which the zmm28 gene (known in molecular biology as a transcription factor) is able to express itself.

“The positive effect of increased and extended expression of zmm28 on grain yield has been observed across a wide range of field conditions and a large set of hybrids,” Ciampitti said. “The same event evaluated here has been previously reported

to increase yield by as much as 7% under different environments affected by drought and nitrogen deficiency.”

Simply, the hybrids tested recover more nitrogen from soils and use it much better in the plant – especially during the late vegetative stages -- to increase yields.

Javier Fernandez – who conducted much of the field work as a K-State doctoral student – and Ciampitti said the new hybrids seem to be inducing nitrogen storage in the lower leaves of the canopy.

Corteva, established by a merger of Dow and DuPont, funded the research, which has been reported in the scholarly journal, Nature Communications Biology. Ciampitti said his lab also received significant support from Kansas Corn.

The findings of this project, Ciampitti said, provides an “opportunity to not only increase productivity of corn, but also to enhance the efficiency of nitrogen fertilization,” factors especially important in light of rising costs for fertilizer and other nitrogen sources.

“This is important not only from the standpoint of productivity and the environment, but also in light of fragile food systems currently,” Ciampitti said.

Corteva has not yet released a timeline on when the new hybrids will be available to farmers.

Local 4-H nominees to represent Dawson County in the State competition of the 4-H Awards/Incentives program include (front row, left to right) Jaelin Wolfinger, Lexington; Jacie Wolfinger, Lexington; Sarah Treffer, Cozad; Emma Luther, Overton; and Emma Peterson, Gothenburg; (middle row, left to right) Sydni Ringenberg, Lexington; Lexi Johnson, Gothenburg; Jaden Hunke, Lexington; and Karla Herrarte, Lexington; (back row, left to right) Rob Stuart, Lexington; representing Dawson County Farm Bureau; Preston Beattie, Sumner; and Bart Beattie, Sumner. Also recognized but not in attendance were Taylor Kramer, Oconto; Andrew Kreuscher, Gothenburg, Addison Luther, Overton; Saidi Ringenberg, Lexington; Greg Treffer, Cozad; and Casey Wahlgren, Gothenburg. Extension photo

Tractors require extra caution in winter

CONTINUED FROM PAGE A30

bucket for moving heavy snow, always keep the load and speed low when traction is poor. Slippery conditions increase the hazard of maneuvering elevated loads on a loader tractor.

Climbing into the cab

Depending on the make, model and year of your tractor, tractor steps can be very hazardous, especially with ice and snow buildup on each step. Slips, trips and falls are common farm and ranch injuries that can be prevented. Build these habits before climbing each step:

Remove any snow and ice buildup from the steps.

Use the handrail to maintain three points of contact at all times when climbing.

Wear adequate shoes that have good tread to prevent your foot from slipping, especially if the steps are worn down or icy.

When dismounting the tractor, never jump down. Always go down the steps facing the equipment, using three points of contact and the handrails for support.

Check your surroundings

Before driving the tractor, always check your surroundings. Watch out for bystanders, such as children, workers, livestock and pets, when preparing to operate your tractor to prevent a runover. The tractor’s ability to brake in the wintertime can be challenged by compacted snow and ice, causing slippery conditions that prevent the operator from making a fast stop. Reduced visibility can also occur when a loader tractor carrying a round bale of hay obstructs the operator’s view moving forward.

Human reaction time can be significantly affected by cold temperatures and poor visibility. Plan work activities ahead of time, allow additional time to get work done, and set realistic goals for daily work in the winter.

Dress appropriately for the weather

Always wear or bring clothing and winter gear that is appropriate for the weather outside, not the climate inside the cab. If the tractor gels up, you may need to walk back and will need the right outerwear for the weather.

Preventing vitamin A deficiency

By Lisa Moser,

K-State Research and Extension news service

A well-balanced diet is a key to good health, and many know the importance of a multivitamin to keep deficiencies at bay.

For cattle, vitamin A is one nutrient that producers need to manage to keep the cattle healthy, said the experts at Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute on a recent Cattle Chat podcast.

“Vitamin A is important for good overall tissue health and really helps support vision,” said veterinarian Bob Larson. “Cattle with severe deficiencies can experience night blindness and their calves can be born weak, but those would be extreme cases.”

Larson said most of the signs of vitamin A deficiency are subtle and hard to detect.

“The primary source of vitamin A is through the beta carotene found in green grass,” said beef cattle nutritionist Phillip Lancaster. “The animal’s body can convert that to vitamin A and since it’s a fat-soluble vitamin it can be stored in the animal’s body for 3-4 months after it comes off the green pastures.”

The challenge this year is that for many regions of the country, the pastures experienced drought and cattle were not able to graze it as long as normal, say the experts.

“And because of the drought. the hay that we made this summer may not have had the same levels of vitamin A as in past years,” added veterinarian Brad White.

There are two options for managing this deficiency, according to Larson.

“A lot of mineral supplements will include vitamin A. It is important to feed fresh mineral supplements that haven’t been stored for more than a year to make sure the product hasn’t been degraded,” he said.

“The second option is to give the cattle a vitamin A injection that will be stored in the liver for a number of weeks.”

White shared the importance of consulting with a nutritionist and veterinarian to come up with a plan to manage vitamin A.

“Because of the drought conditions, many of us are concerned about the earlier than normal depletion of vitamin A in the liver and we need to manage for that situation,” he said.

Effects of corn stalk baling and windrowing techniques

By Brad Schick

Baling corn stalks is becoming more and more common. Corn stalks, or corn residue, is a valuable option for beef producers to reduce feed costs. Advancements in harvesting technology to increase the feeding quality of the residue bale have arisen due to increased utilization of corn residue as a marketable product for feed, bedding, and fuel. How those bales are windrowed and baled affects their quality and nutrients leaving the field. For one ton of corn residue, those nutrients are 17 lbs. of nitrogen, 4 lbs. of phosphate, 3lbs. of sulfur, and 34 lbs. of potash. More residue removed means more nutrients to be replaced.

Trials at UNL examined the EZ bale and New Holland Cornrower systems. The EZ bale system is where the combine tailings are dropped in a windrow behind the combine, and then the windrow is baled, including the tailings and two rows of stalks. This system replaces the raking step. The traditional rake and bale system removes about two-thirds of the residue while the EZ bale removed about one-third.

Another trial looked at the New Holland Cornrower system, where an attachment to the cornhead cuts two, four, six or eight rows of stalks and places them in a windrow where the tailings are dropped. This replaces the raking step. When eight rows are windrowed, the yield is similar to rake and bale, and when two rows are windrowed, the yield is similar to the EZ bale system.

Growing calves fed bales that were raked and baled behind the combine gained 2.11 lbs./hd/day while baled behind a cornrower head with two rows chopped gained 2.34 lbs./hd/ day. This was due to less corn stem within the bale. The EZ bale feed resulted in gains of 2.19 lbs./hd/day.

There are several systems to bale corn residue a particular way. Be sure to know the pros and cons from a feed, fertilizer, and performance standpoint.

Keep your chickens laying eggs in the winter

Farms are famous for their myriad of animals, but one staple that most farms have is chickens. They are a fantastic source of protein, both from their meat and eggs. Unfortunately, when the weather gets colder, they often stop laying eggs. So, how do you keep your chickens laying in the winter months? There are a few tricks to encourage egg production safely.

First, you need to start with healthy baby chicks from an NPIP-certified hatchery. This step helps ensure that the egg-laying or dual-purpose breed chickens you get, either as a farmer or backyard chicken keeper, can grow into the egg layers you need. Get started today by ordering your baby chicks!

When Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs?

Suppose you’re reading this article on how to keep chickens laying eggs in the winter. In that case, you likely will be disappointed to hear that chickens naturally slow down or stop laying eggs altogether during winter. There is no exact date that you can expect your hens to stop laying eggs. But as the days get shorter and the weather gets colder, egg production will begin to slow down. You can expect this reduction to happen in the middle to late fall, especially after daylight savings ends.

Why Do Chickens Stop Laying Eggs During the Colder Months?

Have you noticed that during cold weather, your hens stop laying eggs? Chickens slow down or even stop egg production during the fall and winter due to the shorter hours of light and colder weather. These changes signal their bodies to rest to conserve energy and stay warm rather than continue laying eggs. This natural process is the way chickens stay alive during the winter, as they would not have help with artificial heat or light in nature.

Using Light to Keep Chickens Laying Eggs in Winter

If you’re wondering how to keep hens laying eggs in the winter, you need to offer them light and heat to keep them stimulated so they will lay eggs. Most breeds, including the Plymouth Rock and Rhode Island Red, of hens need at least 12 hours of artificial lighting. In this scenario, you must use the correct light bulbs to mimic natural sunlight. If you can simulate 12 to 14 hours of daylight for your hens, they will typically keep laying eggs all year.

Provide Warmth for Your Chickens to Encourage Egg Laying

In addition to light, you can encourage egg production through warm temperatures that simulate spring or summer. By providing your hens with a warm area protected from the elements, you can encourage them to lay eggs during the winter.

One important note is that chickens need not be hot. If you live in a cold climate and want fresh eggs throughout the winter, you do not need to simulate a Florida beach in your chicken coop. Instead, you want the temperature to be mildly warmer to keep your chickens warm but not shock them when they go in and out of the coop.

If you enjoy reading the Trader’s Dispatch, and have found what you were looking for, please tell an advertiser.

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The University of Minnesota is older than Minnesota, the state itself!

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Tickling has been divided into two types. Knismesis refers to “light feather-like” tickling, and gargalesis refers to “harder laughter-inducing” tickling.

Recipe Patch by Geri

Super-Delicious Zuppa Toscana

1 pound bulk mild Italian sausage

1 ¼ teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes

4 slices bacon, cut into 1/2 inch pieces

1 large onion, diced

1 tablespoon minced garlic

5 (13.75 ounce) cans chicken broth

6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced

1 cup heavy cream

¼ bunch fresh spinach, tough stems removed

Cook Italian sausage and red pepper flakes in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat until crumbly, browned, and no longer pink, 10 to 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cook bacon in the same Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp, about 10 minutes. Drain, leaving a few tablespoons of drippings with the bacon in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Stir in onions and garlic; cook until onions are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in chicken broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Add potatoes and simmer until fork tender, about 20 minutes. Reduce heat to medium; stir in cream, cooked sausage, and spinach. Cook and stir until spinach has wilted and sausage is warmed through; serve.

Incredibly Easy Chicken and Noodles

3 (14.5 ounce) cans chicken broth

1 (26 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup

1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup

2 cups diced, cooked chicken breast meat

2 teaspoons onion powder

1 teaspoon seasoning salt

½ teaspoon garlic powder

2 (9 ounce) packages frozen egg noodles

Combine chicken broth, both condensed soups, and diced chicken in a large pot. Season with onion powder, seasoning salt, and garlic powder.

Bring to a boil over high heat and stir in noodles. Reduce heat to low and simmer until desired consistency is reached, 20 to 30 minutes.

Chili with Beans

1 tablespoon cooking oil (canola, sunflower, etc.)

1 onion, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, chopped

½ pound ground turkey or ground beef (or 1 cup roasted turkey, chopped)

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 teaspoon ground cumin

2 teaspoons chili powder

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

2 (15-ounce) cans kidney beans, rinsed

½ cup water

1 ¼ teaspoons salt (or less to taste)

¼ teaspoon pepper (or to taste)

Optional toppings (sour cream, cilantro)

Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, just until vegetables are tender. Add turkey or beef and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink. (If using roasted turkey, add at the end.) Stir in tomato paste, cumin and chili pepper. Cook and stir for one minute. Add tomatoes (with liquid), beans, water, 1¼ teaspoons salt and ¼ teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, 12 to 15 minutes. Serve with sour cream and cilantro.

Makes eight servings. Each serving has 170 calories, 3 grams (g) fat, 13 g protein, 23 g carbohydrate, 7 g fiber and 300 milligrams sodium.

Milk production

U.S. dairy farmers receive less than $1.32 per gallon of milk they produce. The average retail price of milk $2.76. The average cow produces 7 gallons of milk a day, 2,100 pounds of milk a month, and 46,000 glasses of milk a year. There are 350 squirts in a gallon of milk.

Keep

Prepare Your Chicken Coop for Winter

Chickens must have protection from the cold wind and weather, especially during harsh winters. A prepared chicken coop is another way to keep chickens laying eggs in the winter. You can research different chicken coop options before buying, but they all need to meet these basic requirements:

Keep drafts to a minimum Trap natural heat from the sun Provide roosting areas

Allow them space to move around with plenty of bedding

Keep temperatures up so they do not get frostbite

Fresh feed and water that does not freeze

Adequate ventilation

If you already have a chicken coop on your farm or in your backyard, you’ll want to take some steps to prepare it for the winter and encourage egg laying. Take these steps in early to mid-fall to ensure the coop is ready whenever cold weather strikes. You’ll want to:

Clean the entire coop

Replace loose boards, and plug mouse holes and other vermin entrances

Insulate the coop with an extra layer of fresh bedding

Help keep the wind and snow out by attaching plastic sheeting over hardware cloth or chicken wire coops. Be sure that there is still adequate ventilation, though.

Install a heated waterer so that your chickens always have access to fresh, not frozen, water

Use a radiant heating pad to keep the temperatures at the ideal state

Put the lights on a timer to ensure your chickens get the recommended 12 to 14 hours of light

Ensure there is only one chicken for every four square feet inside the coop to keep chickens healthy

Ensure Your Chickens Have Adequate Nutrition

It takes a lot of nutrients and energy for chickens to lay eggs. So, if you want to encourage your chickens to lay eggs in the winter, you must ensure they eat a balanced diet. It’s a good idea to add extra protein to their diets by giving them layer feed with added protein or treats like sunflower seeds and nuts. The additional protein can help them quickly get through the fall molting season and provide the energy they need to stay warm and lay eggs.

Another nutrient consideration is calcium. This supplement is needed to form strong eggshells and to create the contractions for them to lay the eggs. Crushed oyster shells are an excellent source of calcium. Your chickens also need fresh water throughout the day. Check it in the morning and keep it refilled all day.

What Can I Expect if I Let Nature Run Its Course?

Your hens provided delicious eggs throughout the summer. You can allow your hens to get much-needed rest throughout the winter, so they’ll be ready to produce eggs in the spring again. If you decide to forego any of the above tips and let your chickens focus on staying warm and healthy during the winter, you can expect slowed or stopped egg production. You may see an egg here or there, but there won’t be a bounty of eggs available.

You could also try something completely different by buying winter-laying chickens like Rhode Island Reds. These cold-hardy breeds of chickens lay eggs even during the winter months. These are dual-purpose breeds, and they are winter hardy.

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The word “oysterhood” means “reclusiveness” or “an overwhelming desire to stay at home.”

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Ancient pagan cultures, such as the Celts, believed that benevolent and helpful spirits lived in trees. Knocking on tree trunks roused a spirit for protection, which led to the saying “knock on wood.

• Registered Technical Service Provider for USDA-NRCS

• Certified by the Irrigation Association

• 37 years design and field experience.

If you are looking for an independent, non-biased design based on your business needs CONTACT: Randy Pierce PE, Oxbow Engineering, LLC (406) 600-8528 or email Kinseyk1d51@gmail.com

Historically a powerhouse set of registered and commercial females. Representing generational cow families deep in VGW bloodlines. Many heifers selling have ten plus generations of VGW prefixes. Proven, dependable, fertile and profitable.

MSU Extension transitions to new online home

Montana State University Extension moved its website to a new address in early December. Online Extension resources, including those available locally to residents in all counties and reservations across Montana, will now be housed at montana. edu/extension.

Previously, the site was at msuextension.org, and users visiting the previous site location will be redirected automatically to the new web address. MSU Extension Director of Communications John Hawley expressed excitement about the move.

“Transitioning our site within montana.edu will result in a greater number of online visitors,” he said. “This means our online educational resources will reach a broader audience and our faculty and staff will attract more attendees to Extension programs.”

In addition, the change facilitates technical improvements, including better visibility and branding and enhanced web security, Hawley said. MSU Web and Digital Communications Director Justin Arndt worked closely with MSU Extension to plan the transition this fall, with input from other entities across campus, such as MSU IT.

“This transition will result in significant improvements to the online presence of MSU Extension,” Arndt said. “Our team is now in a much better position to serve Extension and their constituents across Montana.”

Arndt said that users searching for online resources or connections with statewide faculty and staff through search engines such as Google will have an easier time finding MSU Extension at its new online location.

Hawley said more website improvements, including a new staff directory, improved databases and a new web store, are underway.

“The resources and connections we offer to the people and places of Montana are now more readily available than ever before,” he said.

Discovery of Cell Nuclei

Here’s a quick scientific refresher: The fundamental unit of any living organism is the cell. Some organisms, such as bacteria and algae have only one cell. Others–people, for instance–have trillions of cells. Humans, plants, animal, bugs, and some single-celled organisms all have one thing in common, though: Each one of our cells has a nucleus. Robert Brown, a Scottish botanist, was the first to make this discovery.

Born in 1773, Brown studied medicine at the University of Edinburgh. Shortly after his graduation, he worked for five years as an army surgeon. Best known for traveling to distant lands and discovering hundreds of new plant species, Brown rose to prominence as a leading expert in botanic research. In 1831, while studying how herbs and orchids became fertilized, he noticed that each plant cell he studied has a structure in common. Brown decided to call this the nucleus of the cell, after the Latin word meaning “kernel,” or “little nut.”

Brown wasn’t the first to see the nucleus of a cell. That credit went to the guy who perfected the microscope, Dutch scientist Antonie van Leeuwenhoek. Brown, however, was the first to recognize the nucleus’s significance as the regulator of cellular activity. Brown’s observations, research, and theories brought him much notoriety and fortune.

2W Spreading, Choteau MT C22

3V Distributing, Conrad MT C32

A-Plus Auto, Great Falls MT A16

Accelerated Metal Solutions, Brady Smelser, Glendive MT A34

Action Toys, Billings MT A28

Affordable Construction Equipment, Billings & Bozeman MT B3

Ag Trucks & Equipment, Great Falls MT B23

Badland Truck Sales, Glendive MT C1

Basin Seed, LLC, Stanford MT A29

Bass Auction Co. Inc., Lewistown MT..A14

BC Trucking & Livestock, Milt Hartman, Highwood MT A22

Ben Taylor, Valier & Shelby MT B7

Big Equipment Co., Havre MT C33

Big Iron Auctions A3

Big Sky Equipment, Conrad MT B15

Big Sky Pipe, Great Falls MT C2

Big Sky Sawmill & Wood Products, Vaughn MT C20

Billings Farm & Ranch Supply, Billings MT A8

Bjorn Johnson Construction, Missoula MT A24

Bobcat of Mandan, ND B1

Bobcat of Williston, Ironhide, Williston ND C14

Bouma Post Yards, Choteau MT A8

Bouma Truck Sales, Choteau, Great Falls MT INSERT

BTI Feeds, Cut Bank MT B7

Buckley Auction MT C31

C & B Operations, LLC, Billings, Culbertson & Plenywood, MT, Sheridan, WY, Powell, WY C6, C7

Cascade Machine & Supply, Great Falls MT A4

Central City Auto West, Lewistown MT C26

Centrol Crop Consulting LLC, Brady & Conrad MT A28

Circle G Salvage, Walhalla, ND C15

Circle S Seeds, of Montana, Three Forks MT B6

Clearview Seed, Denton MT A33

Courtesy Ford, Conrad MT C25

Crown Agro, Graham Seed Treating, Center ND A18

Cut Bank Tire, Cut Bank MT C13

Dakota Truck & Farm, Minot ND C9

DBL Sales & Service, Dave & Brock Linker, Coffee Creek MT A20, C30

Index

Doane Western of Montana, Bozeman MT A17

Double Diamond Truck & Equipment Sales, Missoula MT B22

Dry Fork Ag, Ledger MT C10

Exchange Services, Inc, Whitefish MT C38

First State Bank, Shelby, MT A36

Flaman Rentals, Power MT C19, C32

Fox Ford, Wolf Point MT A36

Fraser’s Oil Inc., Inverness MT C18

Frieling’s Agricultural Equipment, Great Falls MT B12, B13, C3

Frontline Ag Solutions Dillon, Dillon MT B11

Frontline Ag Solutions, Choteau, Conrad, Cut Bank, Dillon, Lewistown, Havre, Chester, Great Falls, Belgrade, Livingston MT B8, B9

Gateway Arch & Fence, Wayne Thiem, Bozeman MT A30

Glass Trucking, Denton MT A15

Golden Harvest Seeds, Big Sandy MT B2

Gordon Repair, LLC, Miles City MT B14

Graham Seed Treating, Crown Agro, Center ND A18

Greenway Seeds, Caldwell ID A37, B10, C22, C24

Greyn Fertilizer, Choteau, Dutton, Valier MT C5, C36

Grossenburg Equipment, Winner, Pierre, Philip, Belle Fourche SD, Wayne, Bloomfield, Harrington NE, Sundance WY A30, C10, C20

Heartland Ag Systems, ID, KS, MT, ND, NE, SD, WA C21

Hedman, Inc, Grass Range MT C11

Helfert’s Helena Farm Supply, East Helena MT A10

Henke Enterprises, SprayFlex & Big Dog Mowers, Chester MT C23

Hoven Equipment Co., Great Falls MT C28, C29

Hwy 12 Equipment & Repair, Baker MT B14

Ironhide, Bobcat of Williston, Williston ND C14

J & T Equipment Sales, John Jones, Stevensville MT C16

J Bar T Bins & Steel Buildings, Jeremiah Johnson & Thad, Chester MT A21

Jamieson Motors, Inc., Chinook MT A26, C12

Jim Nielsen Trucks & Parts, Butte MT C39

Johnsen Trailer Sales, Inc., Bismarck & Fargo ND C3

Krogmann Mfg. B10

Lattin & Sons, Power MT C19, C32

Lewistown Honda, Lewistown MT A12

M & M Auto, Trailers, & Welding, Stevensville MT C34

M & W Machine, Three Forks MT C35

MDS Construction Supply, Great Falls MT A20

Missouri River Realty, Glasgow, Malta, MT C12

Montana Fence, Billings, Bozeman, Great Falls, Kalispell MT A2, A35, C20

Montana Holster & Shoulder Rig, Norm Schertenlieb, Great Falls MT A36

Montana Metal Fabrications, Great Falls MT A29

Montana Valley Irrigation, Great Falls MT A12

Montana’s Next Generation Conference, Shelby MT A4

Mountain Equipment, Cody WY C2

Mountain View Metal Works, Wilsall MT C9

MT Tractors, Matt Pendergast, Stevensville MT A7

Musselshell Valley Equipment, Roundup MT C13, C39

Musser Bros Auction, Billings A6

North Star Equipment, John Myers, Simms MT C31

Northern Ford, Cut Bank MT B19

Northern Prairie Auto Sales, Wolf Point MT C22

Norwood Sales, Inc., ND & NE C15

Oxbow Engineering LLC, Randy Pierce PE Three Forks MT A37

Pete’s Auto Sales, Great Falls MT C17

Platinum Auto Center, Big Timber MT C8

Precision Truck & Trailer, Havre MT C40

Price Truck & Equipment Sales, Missoula MT C24

R

MT B14

RDO Equipment, Kalispell, MT C24

RDO Equipment, Missoula MT C24

Reddig Equipment & Repair, Kalispell MT A18, C25

Rehbein Ford, Inc., Plains MT B20

Reinke, RPH Irrigation Services, Choteau MT A19

Rockwell Scales, Simms MT A11

Roger Rader, Inc, Sun River MT C38

RPH Irrigation Services, Reinke, Choteau MT A19

Severinsen Irrigation, Zimmatic & GSI, Fairfield MT C7

Shop Specialties, Valier MT A9

Shortline Ag, Scobey MT B20

Sod Buster Sales, Polson MT C15, C26

SprayFlex, Doug Henke Chester, MT C23

Steel Etc, Great Falls MT A40

Stokes Fencing, Conrad MT C21

Sullivan Brothers Construction, Conrad MT A25

Sunrise Hoppers, Bow Island AB Canada B8

Super SmartRooms/Superform ICF, Jerry Gangstad, Avon MT A26, C19

Sustainable Oils A38

T & T Farm Supply, LLC, Chester MT C19

Taylor Farm Store, Shelby MT B7

TCB Transport LLC, Todd Bedosky, Geyser MT C21

Three Forks Lumber & Ready Mix, Three Forks MT A22

Tiber Tractor Co., Chester MT B24

Tom’s Shop, Grass Range MT A14

Treasure State Seed, Fairfield MT B22

Treasure State Wood Boilers, LLC, Charley Bucklin, Bigfork, MT A14

Tri County Implement, Sidney MT C35

Triangle Ag Service, Fort Benton MT C23

Triple T Sales, Chinook MT C14, C27

TT&E Inc, Victor MT A32

Valley, Montana Valley Irrigation, Great Falls MT A12

Valley Trailer Sales, Belgrade MT A34

VW Mfg, Loren Hawks, Chester MT B17

Weaver Grain Bins, Power MT C4

Wichman Ag Supply LLC, Hilger MT B14

XB Trailer Sales, Great Falls MT C37

Zimmatic, Severinsen Irrigation, Fairfield MT C7

Zimmerman Manure & Silage Hauling, Fairfield MT C8

What is carbon?

By Adriana Murillo-Williams, Agronomy Extension Educator, Penn State Extension

Carbon farming, carbon markets, and carbon sequestration are just a few of the many terms that farmers are constantly hearing at conferences, webinars, and reading in articles. However, agronomists, or crop scientists, rarely cover the basics of carbon and why it is essential to crops and the environment. Let’s start at the beginning- “What is carbon?” Carbon is a chemical element in the atmosphere, plants and soil, fossil fuels, and the ocean. All these groups serve as carbon reservoirs or sinks, where it is stored in various forms (solids, liquids, or gases). Carbon is constantly changing forms and moving from one reservoir to another through different mechanisms that occur naturally or due to human activity.

Each of these reservoirs has a specific role in carbon transfer and agriculture.

Atmospheric Carbon:

Atmospheric carbon is present in the form of gases like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4). Carbon dioxide is the raw material plants require for growth through a light-powered process called photosynthesis. The plant will use carbon-based building blocks (or carbohydrates) from photosynthesis to construct cell walls, fibers, stems, leaves, flowers, roots, tubers, wood, branches, grain, and fruits.

Soil Carbon:

Soil carbon can be present in inorganic or organic forms. Inorganic forms of carbon include calcium carbonates, like dolomite and limestone. Organic forms of carbon are present in living and decomposing plants, animals, and microbes. In addition, plants, microbes, and the soil fauna interact by releasing organic carbon into the soil. For example, actively growing roots release carbon-containing substances into the soil that will serve as food for microbial communities and as signals to recruit beneficial nitrogen-fixing bacteria and mycorrhizae. So, this interaction between plants, soil fauna, and microbes contributes to the soil organic carbon pool. When microbes decompose plant debris, carbon is released into the atmosphere as CO2.

Fossil Fuels:

Crude oil and coal are carbon-rich products derived from the decomposed remains of ancestral plants and animals. Fossil fuels are mainly used to generate electricity or manufacture products that power gasoline and diesel engines. Combustion of fossil fuels releases CO2 back into the atmosphere and other gases that are considered pollutants.

Oceanic Carbon:

In the ocean, atmospheric carbon dioxide dissolves in water. Marine organisms use carbon as a building material for shells, and aquatic plants and microorganisms for photosynthesis. Many fossil fuels come from the long process of aquatic decomposition and carbon cycling within the ocean. The oceans also contribute to some of our soil amendments like fish meal and seaweed or kelp-based products.

Why do we have to care about carbon in agriculture? Carbon compounds provide the fuel that all living organisms need to survive. We already mentioned the importance of carbon dioxide for photosynthesis in plants, but what else does it do? Soil organic carbon, which makes up more than half of soil organic matter and therefore is often referred to as such, is composed mainly of residues of plants and animals. As this material forms in the soil, it increases the soil structure, and its ability to retain water and hold nutrients that could otherwise be lost through leaching or erosion.

Carbon also supplies food for living organisms in the soil, which increases residue breakdown, thus promoting the release of nutrients into the soil solution. For a more in-depth look at soil organic carbon and how it improves soils, read Agronomy Fact Sheet 41: Soil Organic Carbon by Cornell University.

No-till and cover crop systems often have the highest amount of soil organic carbon because the microbes and organic carbon are allowed to form long acid chains rather than being exposed to air and released as carbon dioxide. Adding cover crops or forages to a system increases the volume of roots in the soil throughout the year, meaning there is more food for microbes and more opportunity for building up soil organic carbon. No-till and cover crops are sometimes referred to as carbon sequestration practices because they help to keep the carbon in the soil, compared to traditional methods.

Too much of a good thing?

But if carbon is so good, why should we be concerned about rising CO2 levels in the atmosphere? Human activities have led to large amounts of carbon dioxide being released

into the atmosphere. Consequently, larger carbon sinks, for example, the ocean, cannot keep up with removing all the additional CO2 from the atmosphere, breaking the natural balance of carbon exchange among the reservoirs. Carbon dioxide levels continue to set record highs, reaching levels beyond

have caused the Earth’s natural warming over the last million years. Gaseous CO2 absorbs heat, making this gas a critical contributor to the increased temperatures we have experienced in the previous decades. Increased temperatures have led to changes in precipitation patterns, increased frequency of droughts and heatwaves, and heavy downpours. Climate predictions for Pennsylvania indicate that at the end of the 21st century, corn production will face a greater risk

of drought and high-temperature stress during critical growth stages. Increased climate variability and exposure to more extreme weather events counteract the positive effects that CO2 levels in the atmosphere may have on agriculture and plant productivity in some regions of the country. In a nutshell, in many cases - like corn production in Pennsylvania, more carbon in the soil is better than more carbon in the atmosphere.

moving forward

NEW DATE. SAME PROGRAM.

The kids and I would like to extend our deepest thanks for all of the support we have been shown after the tragic loss of Nanna. Thank you to all who organized, donated, delivered bulls, fed cows, or just called to check in and share a good story. We are forever grateful.

Moving our sale date is something that has been in our conversations for a few years. With high school sports and a busy calving season; this change is just a step to simplify our lives so we can continue to do what we love.

We believe these are our most exciting set of bulls to date. Look forward to bulls sired by Coneally Clarity, Sterling Pacific, Sitz Continuity & Ellingson Three Rivers. We look forward to seeing you January 26, 2023 in Shelby, Montana.

Our most sincere thanks,

2023 Private pesticide applicator training dates

The 2023 private pesticide applicator training dates, times, and locations have been set. Notification letters will be sent out by the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to applicators whose license will expire in 2023.

First, applicators’ new licenses will be tan in color and have the words “General Agriculture” and the code 00 printed on it.

Second, applicators who wish to use soil fumigants will be required to pass the commercial Soil Fumigation (category 01A) exam to receive this certification. Also, if the applicator wishes to use non-soil, structural, or rodent burrow fumigants, they will be required to pass the commercial Non-Soil / Structural Fumigation (category 11) exam to receive this certification.

When the applicator passes the exam(s), categories 01A and / or 11 will be printed on their applicator license.

Applicators who use rodent burrow baits do not need these additional categories on their licenses to purchase and apply these products.

Training manuals for these categories are available for purchase on the https://pested. unl.edu/ website or call 402-472-1632 for more information. Applicators who want to add these categories to their license are encouraged to purchase the study manuals as soon as possible and review the literature prior to taking the exam(s).

Third, applicators attending any training session will need to provide proof of identification at the training site, such as a driver’s license.

The cost of the training is $50.00 payable the day of the training (Checks should be made payable to the University of Nebras-

ka-Lincoln). You should have received a letter from the Nebraska Department of Agriculture reminding you of your license expiration. If you bring that letter with you the day of the training, you can save yourself time by handing it in and not filling out our form. The NDA letter will have a barcode that is needed for recertification.

Private pesticide license holders may recertify and those seeking an initial private pesticide license can do so by attending the Crop Production Clinic on January 4, 2023, at the Gering Civic Center. Pre-registration is made at http://agronomy.unl.edu/cpc

Private pesticide licenses also can be obtained by completing an online course. Pesticide applicators can purchase access to the online course via https://psep.education/ applicator/. The cost of the course is $50. Call 402-472-1632 if you have any questions about this training.

The state pesticide license fee is $25.00 for private applicators. Upon completion of your private pesticide applicator training, the Nebraska Department of Ag (NDA) will receive your application form and then send you a billing invoice for the $25.00 state license fee. The license fee covers the three-year certification period. Upon receipt of the license fee payment, the NDA will issue your pesticide license card to you. The license fee collected by the NDA is transferred to the Nebraska Water Quality Enhancement fund. Your NDA private pesticide license card is required for the purchase and use of restricted use pesticides to produce Agricultural Commodities.

If you have any questions, please contact your local Nebraska Extension County office.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive good things and good people will be drawn to you.

If you don’t know what your passion is, realize that one reason for your existence on earth is to find it.

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.

WeatherAll® is a protective coating applied to the BioBarrel® as a final step in the manufacturing process. It is composed of an edible, food-grade, wax coating that helps protect and slow down BioBarrel® degradation when encountering wet conditions. The protective coating also helps reduce the attraction that some cattle have to the BioBarrel® container once it is softened under extreme wet conditions, thus reducing the incidence of cattle consuming the container faster than the CRYSTALYX® product. WeatherAll® Protective Technology broadens the application and effectiveness of the BioBarrel® container to all geographies within North America.

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. CRYSTAL-PHOS™ is a weather and waste proof mineral supplement that cows will consume readily along with BGF-30™. Place a BGF-30™ barrel with every 20-30 head of cows and a CRYSTAL-PHOS® barrel for approximately every 40-70 head. Studies have shown that cows will consume mineral better from CRYSTAL-PHOS. Try the “combo” program ~ it works!

Only 5% of the ocean has been explored

The ocean covers around 70% of the Earth’s surface, and it is much harder to explore than land.

As much as 20% of the ocean floor has now been mapped, thanks to advancements in sonar technologies.

The reason we’ve explored so little of the ocean is that the technology needed has only developed over the last 100 years.

2019 John Deere S790 473 hp, 2WD, 671 engine hours, 496 separator hours, Pro Drive transmission with Harvest Smart, advanced PowerCast tailboard, TriStream rotor, fixed speed feederhouse, power folding GT extensions, small wire concaves, 28.5-ft. unloading auger, 1100/45R46 front tires, 710/60R30 rear tires, GPS monitor, display, and Premium Activation. Stock #72735 $405,000 (1)

2018 John Deere S790 with 857 engine/647 separator hours, Combine Advisor, Active Yield, dual tilt fixed speed feederhouse, leather seat, Premium cab, LED lights, complete GPS system with Premium activation, regular wear TriStream rotor, advanced PowerCast tailboard, 28.5-ft. unload auger, axle spacers, extended warranty until 12/2023 or 1750 hours. Stock #79419 $407,000 (1)

2020 John Deere S780 no receiver or extended monitor, 4600 display with AutoTrac Activation, Contour Master with fore & aft, 580/85R42 duals, Combine Advisor, Active Yield, power folding grain tank, 28.5-ft. unloading auger, advanced tailboard, TriStream rotor (standard wear), LED lights, cloth seat, premium radio, sidehill performance kit, small grain cleaning shoe. Stock #80883 $427,500 (14)

2004 John Deere 9660STS small grain, 2WD, GreenStar, less mapping with display, general purpose chaffer, small wire concave, wide spaced tube radiator, high capacity lift cylinders, fixed rear axle, heavy duty spindles, twin disk spreader with chaff spreader, 300 bushel grain tank extension. Stock #83004 $60,000 (1)

2016 Case IH 8240 small grain, 2WD, duals, MagnaCut Chopper, HID lighting, Navil controller and 372 Waas receiver, GPS included, Case IH 2152-40 platform traded with this combine (Stock #83536). But priced and sold separately. Stock #83535 $215,000 (12)

2020 John Deere S780 473 hp, 2WD, Pro Drive transmission, advanced PowerCast tailboard, TriStream rotor, 28.5-ft. unloading auger, Combine Advisor, Premium Activation with Gen 4 monitor and SF6000 receiver, 520-85R 42 tires with duals, and 750/65R26 rear tires. Stock #81411 $450,000 (12)

2019 John Deere S780 combine with extended wear package, Premium cab, Combine Advisor, Active Yield, Pro Drive transmission with Harvest Smart, TriStream rotor with extended wear package, power folding covers, 28.5ft. unloading auger, fine cut chopper, side hill performance package. Stock #79041 $339,000 (1)

2019 John Deere S780 combine with extended wear package, Premium cab, Combine Advisor, Active Yield, Pro Drive transmission with Harvest Smart, TriStream rotor with extended wear package, power folding covers, 28.5ft. unloading auger, fine cut chopper, side hill performance package. Stock #79043 $358,000 (1)

2021 John Deere S770 combine with 520/85R42 duals, 600 rear singles, Command Touch feederhouse with fore and aft, 4600 display with AutoTrac activation, no receiver, Combine Advisor, Active Yield, extended wear rotor, extended wear grain handling, power folding tops, 26-ft. unloading auger, PowerCast tailboard, LED light package. Stock #80604 $437,500 (14)

2015 John Deere S670 small grain, 2WD, singles, chopper, Yield Monitor, Contour Master, (lateral tilt feederhouse), sidehill, PowerCast tailboard, power folding bin extension, general purpose extended wear package, premium cab, enhanced air suspension seat, HID lighting package and header extremity lights, premium radio package with XM radio, AutoTrac, complete with Harvest Monitor, (SF1) GreenStar 3 2630 display (mounted on armrest), ProDrive transmission with Harvest Smart feedrate control. Stock #83460 $177,000 (12)

2017 John Deere S680, ProDrive transmission, fixed speed drive, heavy duty dual tilt cylinders, premium cab and radio, premium LED light package, Active Terrain adjust, TriStream Rotor, power folding grain tank covers, 26-ft. unload auger, advanced PowerCase tailboard, IF900/60R32 drive tires, 750/65R26 rear tires. Stock #82387 $282,500 (2)

2008 John Deere 9770STS level land, HiTorq variable speed feederhouse, deluxe header control with header height sensing, general purpose chaffer, 22-ft. unload auger, 900/60R32 drive tires, 28L-26 rear tires. Stock #81779 $78,000 (3)

Miles Geer doesn’t normally show horses, but he was the Reserve Champion dairy showman which sent him to the Round Robin showmanship competition. In the Round Robin, he competed against the top swine, goat, sheep, cattle, dairy, and horse showmen. Photo by Kari Lewis.

2008 Case IH Steiger 535 Quadtrac with 535 hp, Cummins QSX15 6-cylinder engine, 3-point hitch, rear tracks in good condition, 4 rear hydraulic remotes, clean cab. Stock #82884 $257,500 (1)

2020 John Deere 5075E utility tractor, MFWD, 12F/12R Power Reverser, cab, dual mid valve, PTO, loader prep package, standard cab, 16.9x29 rear tires. Stock #82966 $55,000 (4)

2021 John Deere 5090E utility tractor with MFWD, cab, 24/12 Power Reverser, 18.4x30 rear tires, PTO, 3 SCVs, dual mid SCV, deluxe cornerpost exhaust, loader prep package. Stock #92968 $68,000 (4)

2021 John Deere 6155 M row crop tractor, 20/20 CommandQuad Plus with triple link suspension, standard cab with CommandARM, 114 min hydraulic pump, 3 SCVs, PTO, single 600/65R38 rear tires, 540/65R24 front tires, mechanical cab suspension plus, cold start package, premium light package, ISOBUS ready. Warranty until 7/1/2024 or 1500 hours. Also has JD 640 loader. Stock #81769 $177,500 (1)

2021 John Deere 6175M row crop tractor, MFWD, 20/20 Powergard transmission, AutoTrak ready, 3 SCVs, 540/1000 PTO, 480/80R46 rear tires, 420/85R30 front tires, light package, loader ready. Stock #82603 $172,000 (4)

BALE

2000 Vermeer BP8000, bale processor, left hand discharge, 1000 PTO. Stock #81062 $12,500 (15)

2006 Vermeer BP7000 bale processor-feeder, 1000 PTO, hydraulic deflector, roller beater, 11L-15 tires. Stock #80044 $10,250 (14)

2011 Haybuster 2650 bale processor, processes 2 large round bales, one at a time, 1000 RPM PTO, right hand discharge, hydraulic bale deflector. Stock #82462 $17,500 (16)

2017 Haybuster 2660 1000 PTO bale feeder, right hand delivery, hydraulic deflector. Stock #83096 $21,500 (14)

2014 Haybuster 2650 bale processor with hydraulic deflector and RH delivery. Stock #82464 $16,500 (4)

2016 Bale King 8100 bale processor, processes large round or square bales, one in chamber and one on the loading forks, 1000 RPM PTO, right hand discharge, dual roller feed system, hydraulic deflector, adjustable slug bars. Stock #82248 $21,500 (16)

2021 John Deere 6195M row crop tractor with 20/20 CommandQuad Plus, 4 SCVs, PTO, 650/65R38 rear tires, 540/65R28 front tires, cold start package, standard cab with CommandARM. Includes 680R loader. Stock #83084 $207,500 (1)

2021 John Deere 8R370 row crop tractor with Signature Edition, IVT with independent link suspension air seat with cab suspension, 84 gpm hydraulic pump, 6 SCVs, 1000 PTO, Cat 4 3-point Quik Coupler, 520/85R46 rear duals, 480/70R34 front duals, front fenders, weights - front and rear. Includes 4600 display with 3.0 AutoTrac Activation (no SF6000 receiver). Stock #83132 $457,500 (1)

2021 John Deere 8R280 row crop tractor with PowerGuard 6-year/4000 hour, IVT, 540/1000 PTO, Cat 4 3-point with Quik Coupler, dual 480/80R50 rear tires, dual 420/85R34 front tires, 6 SCVs, air seat with cab suspension, large hydraulic pump, 1400# rear weights and 22 front weights, GPS-AutoTrak complete. Stock #79610 $325,000 (4)

2020 John Deere 8320R, 320 hp, IVT transmission, 6 SCVs, 85 GPM hydraulic pump, 4600 processor/Starfire receiver, front and rear weights, 3-point hitch with Quik Coupler, 1000 PTO, 480/80R50 rear tires with duals, 420/85R34 front tires with duals. Stock #78854 $339,000 (4)

1986 Ford TW15 row crop tractor with cab, Synchro transmission, Ezee-On loader with bucket and grapple, 3-point hitch, PTO, 2 SCVs. Stock #82177 $25,000 (15)

2012 John Deere 8360RT 360 hp, row crop track tractor with 16” tracks, (very good condition), IVT, 4 SCVs, 3-point, 1000 PTO, 60 gpm hydraulic pump, deluxe cab, work lights, 22 front weights, 80” track spacing, no GPS included. Has rebuilt transmission, hydraulic pump, and engine harness completed this winter. Stock #79965 $139,000 (4)

1997 John Deere 8400 250 hp, MFWD, 7067 hours, rear duals, 4 rear SCVs, 20 front weights, 1000 PTO. Stock #82239 $84,000 (11)

1992 Cat Challenger 65B tractor, 2 track, 10 speed power shift transmission, 4 SCVs, 7754 hours, 285 hp, 30” tracks. Stock #82840 $23,500 (11)

2013 Case IH Puma 200 row crop tractor, 200 hp, CVT transmission, front fenders, 3 mid mount SCVs, 3-point hitch, rear SCVs, PTO, loader ready, but no loader, hood guard. Stock #81715 $110,000 (11)

2013 Massey-Ferguson 7624 Classic, cab, self-leveling loader with bucket and grapple, MFWD with suspension, IVT, rear PTO 540/1000, 4 SCVs, rear fenders, duals, rear weights. Stock #81856 $120,000 (15)

2020 John Deere R4060 with 120-ft. steel boom, 20” nozzle spacing, automatic solution control, JD ExactApply, hi flow pump with dual flow meter, boom air purge, full boom breakaway, SS tank. Stock #82879 $393,000 (1)

2018 John Deere R4045 with 132” carbon fiber booms, ExactApply, full GPS system, auto solution control, VF 420/95R50 tires, eductor, boom air purge, LED lighting, premium radio, 5 sensor boom leveling. Stock #74435 $435,000 (1)

2003 John Deere 4710, 90-ft. boom, 20” spacing, poly boom pipe, 800 gallon poly tank, 5 boom sections, 3 tip nozzle bodies, manual air ride, hydraulic tread adj., fenders, 420/80R46=20%, Trimble CFX750 w/Field IQ, ATU Style steering wheel kit. Stock #77704 $54,000 (14)

Apache AS1220 with 120-ft. booms, 20” spacing, boom leveling, Raven Viper 4 rate controller, VF380/90R46 tires. Stock #81278 $118,900 (1)

2012 Spra-Coupe 4460 with 400 gallon/82-ft. sprayer boom, like new, 970 hours, field ready, needs nothing, loaded up with all the options, AutoSteer EzSteer, Trimble FM-750 display, section and machine controls are all included, comes with 2 sets of nozzles, 7.5 and 10 gallon work, fresh water tank, Allison automatic transmission, fenders, towable unit and comes with the hitch, 2 new rear tires last fall. Stock #83420

$85,000 (15)

#82885

1998 RoGator RG854 self-propelled sprayer, 5100 hours, 800 gallon stainless tank, 90-ft. booms, 20” spacing, poly plumbing, hydraulic tread adjust, less foam marking system, less eductor, Trimble FMX guidance system. Stock #82579 $31,000 (11)

2012 Terragator TG8400 spreader, 70-ft. boom, CVT transmission, single box, section control, electric roll tarp, Raven GPS, foam marker. Stock #79261 $110,000 (11)

John Deere 4940 spreader with 300 cu. ft. New Leader dry box with tarp, includes full GPS system (2630 display, SF3000, AutoTrac activation, 620/70R46 tires, hydraulic tread adjust, traction control. Very nice unit, call today. Stock #82882 $180,000 (1)

John Deere F4365 applicator with granular box and electric tarp, no SF6000, no extended display, AR485 dual bin, 70-ft. air boom, premium cab and radio. Stock #82885 $329,000 (1)

2013 Bale King 5100 with right hand discharge, fine cut kit, 3 hydraulics needed, flotation tires. Stock #83493 $16,500 (12)

Bale King 3100 bale processor, right hand discharge, hydraulic deflector, 1000 PTO, requires 3 SCVs. Stock #83178 $11,000 (11)

Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame inductees

The Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Heritage Center (MCHF & WHC) announces their 15th class of inductions into the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame. The inductees were chosen from a field of candidates nominated by the general public. Inductees are honored for their notable contributions to the history and culture of Montana.

“The Hall of Fame exists to honor those who have made an impact in their part of the state and represent Montana’s authentic heritage for future generations,” said DuWayne Wilson, MCHF & WHC president. “Our volunteer trustees around Montana vote on nominations that come from the district in which they reside. This process gives the local communities a strong voice in who will represent them in the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame.”

The MCHF & WHC board of directors has designated 12 trustee districts across the state from which up to 20 trustees may be appointed. Nomination criteria established by the board for the Class of 2023 inductions allowed the election of one Living Inductee and one Legacy Inductee from each of the 12 districts.

District 1 District 1 (Daniels, Phillips, Roosevelt, Sheridan, & Valley Counties): Living: Jack & Andrea Billingsley of Glasgow; Leg-

acy: John & Catherine Etchart of Tampico. District 2 District 2 (Dawson, Garfield, McCone, Prairie, Richland, & Wibaux Counties): Living: Glenda S. (Childers) Reynolds of Brusett; Legacy: Alfred Henry “Al” Johnson, Jordan District 3 (Carter, Custer, Fallon, Powder River, Rosebud, & Treasure Counties): Living: Robert J. “Jim” Wilson of Alzada; Legacy: Laton Alton “L.A.” Huffman of Miles City District 4 (Blaine, Chouteau, Hill, & Liberty Counties): Living: Richard Dallas “Dick” Granell of Havre; Legacy: Alfonse Valentine & Marie Theresa (Amssoms) Vercruyssen of Chinook

District 5 (Cascade, Glacier, Pondera, Teton, & Toole Counties): Living: Alan Dennis “Skip” Joseph of Great Falls; Legacy: Charles Edward “Charlie” Morris of Great Falls

District 6 (Fergus, Golden Valley, Judith Basin, Musselshell, Petroleum, & Wheatland Counties): Living: Wes & Tammy Schenk of Harlowton; Legacy: Irwin Conrad Allen of Ryegate

District 7 (Big Horn, Carbon, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, & Yellowstone Counties): Living: Elãnna Skorupa aka: Quackgrass Sally of Bridger; Legacy: Robert Stuart Brownlee of Big Timber

District 8 (Broadwater, Jefferson, & Lewis and Clark Counties): Living: Charles Gilbert “Chuck” Plymale of Townsend; Legacy: Wesley Robert “Wes” Synness of Helena

District 9 (Gallatin, Meagher, & Park Counties): Living: Warren Howard Johnson of Gardiner; Legacy: Donald W. “Donnie” Johnston, White Sulphur Springs

District 10 (Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, & Sanders Counties): Living: Thomas Michael “Tom” Harmon of Kila; Legacy: Hollister “Pat” McVay of Kalispell

District 11: (Mineral, Missoula, & Ravalli Counties): Living: Robert M. “Dr. Bob” Brown of Missoula; Legacy: William M. “Bill” Holt of Lolo

District 12: (Deer Lodge, Beaverhead, Silver Bow, Granite, Madison, & Powell Counties): Living: Daniel Calvin “Dan” Hill of Dillon; Legacy: Esther Marie (Johnson) McDonald of Philipsburg.

The MCHF & WHC plans to honor these inductees during the MCHF Annual Induction Ceremony & Western Heritage Gathering February 11, 2023, in Great Falls at the Heritage Inn. Look for more information as it becomes available on our Facebook page and on our website.

Full biographies for past inductees are available on the MCHF & WHC’s website, http://www.montanacowboyfame.org. This year’s inductees will be added to the website in the near future.

For further information, contact the MCHF & WHC at 406-653-3800 or email Christy@montanacowboyfame.org.

and Machine, LLC 406-735-4374 – Geyser, MT rlmccray@3rivers.net

406-594-2204, Winston, MT 406-594-2205, Winston, MT Sereday 406-547-4749, Sulphur Springs, MT coxranchequip@gmail.com

(shop) – Baker, MT 406-978-3777 (cell)

Managing weed seeds in manure

By Chryseis Modderman, University of Minnesota, Extension Educator, Crops

Small but mighty, weed seeds in manure can be problematic when they result in overgrown, weedy fields after manure application. A survey found that fresh manure on dairy farms had an average of 75,000 seeds per ton. But, luckily, there are some measures that can be taken to reduce the viability of those weed seeds.

First of all, don’t assume that animal digestion will take care of the problem. Though it will reduce weed seed viability, simply feeding the material to livestock will not eliminate all seeds. Grass and soft-coated broadleaf weed seeds are more easily destroyed in digestion than hard-coated seeds. In a study conducted on rumen animals, such as cattle, 27% of hard-coated seeds remained viable after digestion. The gizzard digestive system of poultry is highly effective at destroying weed seeds, and only 3.5% of hard-coated seeds fed to ducks were recovered and found viable in a similar study. So what can you do to reduce weed seed viability beyond the gut? In general, heat is the enemy of weed seed survival. The benchmark for good seed mortality is 140°F (60°C) sustained for three days. Hot temperatures that fall below that mark or a shorter duration will still kill some weed seeds, but not as thoroughly. How you subject the weed seeds to heat is up to you, but below are a few suggestions.

Minimize weed seeds in feed and forage by ensiling What goes in, must come out; so killing seeds before they get to the animal is a good strategy. One way to do that is to ensile the feed (if appropriate for the feed type). The fermentation and heat generated during ensiling is quite effective for killing weed seeds. One study found that just one month after seed-contaminated alfalfa haylage was stored, viability of the toughest seeds dropped by 41%; and in corn silage, the drop was even greater at 60%. Logically, seed viability continues to decrease as silage storage time increases. Eight weeks of ensiling was shown to kill up to 87% of viable seeds; and when feed went through both ensiling and rumen digestion, the seed mortality increased to 89%.

Minimize weed seeds in manure by composting Composting is an effective method of weed seed control in manure.

What if ensiling isn’t feasible? What if your manure is already contaminated with weed seeds? In those cases, composting is a very effective method for killing weed seeds – more effective than ensiling.

Internal heat generated by properly composting manure will kill most weed seeds – even the hard-seeded weeds. The key word here is “properly.” Aged manure is not composted manure. I’ll say it again: aged manure is not composted manure. Proper composting requires active management and must be monitored and aerated for correct weed-killing conditions to develop.

Temperature and moisture are the two most crucial elements for seed mortality in compost. Studies have shown that sustaining the compost at that benchmark of 140°F for three days can reduce weed seed viability 90-98%, so long as a minimum of 35% moisture is maintained. Another study found that overall duration was important and that it took between 21 and 50 days of composting for best results.

Even under the most diligent composting program, there can be seeds that survive. It is theorized that since manure is not a uniform product, this mortality escape is due to cooler pockets that do not sustain high temperatures for long enough. Therefore, just because manure has been composted does not necessarily mean it is weed seed free.

Field application of contaminated manure

Remember, even if the feed was ensiled and the manure was composted before spreading, it’s still possible for weed seeds to remain viable. A 98% reduction in viability seems sufficient, but even low seed survival rates can be problematic. A 2% survival of 75,000 seeds would leave 1,500 viable seeds remaining per ton. Applied at 8 tons per acre, that would increase the weed seedbank by 12,000 seeds per acre! Therefore, it is crucial to scout fields that receive manure to head off any severe weed infestation.

Bananas

Bananas are the number one fruit crop in the world. They are the 4th largest overall crop, after wheat, rice, and corn. India grows more bananas than any other country. The Philippines, China, and Ecuador are the next three top producers of bananas.

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Skid-steer safety for farm and landscape

By Dennis J. Murphy, Professor, Agricultural Safety and Health and William Harshman, Research Assistant

Skid steers are compact, powerful, and versatile machines because they can fit into a small space and complete various types of jobs in a farm operation. Due to their design, they are small enough to scoop out animal wastes, lift a tree into a landscape site, and quickly move payloads of rock, feed, manure, or building materials. Their numerous attachments make the skid steer as valuable as any farm or utility tractor. The usefulness of skid steers for agricultural and landscape operation is hard to overstate but they are not without their limitations. The skill and knowledge required for safe operation is often misunderstood and underestimated.

This fact sheet addresses the safe use of the skid steer loader as used in agricultural or landscape operations. Hazards associated with skid steers, keeping the skid-steer in safe operating condition, and operator safety considerations are discussed. Since skid steers are often used by employees, how OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) regulations apply to skid steers used in agricultural and landscape businesses is also reviewed.

Skid-Steer Hazards

The major hazards of skid steer use include being: runover by the machine; caught in an attachment; crushed between machine parts; trapped by loads that roll or drop into the operator station, and pinned by rollover or tipping of the machine. A runover can occur when: an operator falls from the skid steer while operating it; workers on the ground near the skid steer move out of the sight line of the operator; the operator carries riders in the skid steer bucket and they fall; or bystanders wander into the work area and are not seen by the operator. Statistics show that these riders and bystanders are often young children, but can also be co-workers or other helpers who have duties near the work area.

Entrapment injury can occur when the operator or helper attempts to maneuver controls and levers from outside the skid steer’s protective frame, or from miscommunication between the operator and the helper. Hands and arms have been mangled or amputated after being crushed between the lift arms of the skid steer and the frame of the machine. Feet and legs have been crushed between the skid steer and accessories such as buckets or tree augers attached to the lift arms. Working beneath a raised skid steer bucket has led to entrapment which may result in a fatal crush injury.

Loads may roll back into the operator station if the skid steer is being used to pick up material that is bulky and does not fit in the bucket adequately or is not properly secured. The skid steer’s protective frame offers some protection from the hazard of larger objects that do not break apart, but smaller objects, such as feed containers, landscape stones or brick pavers, may enter the operator station and injure the operator.

A skid steer can tip forward from excessive weight in the bucket or from a heavy attachment if it is in a raised position. A forward tip can throw the operator out of the protective cab if the seat restraint is not used, allowing the skidsteer to runover the operator or the operator to be crushed by the skid steer bucket and/or load. Skid steers should have ignition interlocks that prevent operation of the machine if the seat belt is not buckled or the restraint bar is not in place. Operators sometimes disable these safety devices and expose themselves to serious injury or death from a tipping incident. A rollover can occur anytime the machine is being operated on steep slopes or uneven terrain. Skid steers can be unstable when combined with a heavy load in the loader bucket raised high.

Skid steers are often used to scrape animal manure. Concrete floors and ramps, and skid steer tires, can become worn over time and result in less traction during skid steer operations. It may be hard to stop the skid steer on slippery manure push-off ramps, especially if the operator is op-

erating the skid steer at high speed because he or she is in a hurry. Quick starts and stops with a loaded bucket can result in toppling the machine forward over manure storage fences, guardrails, ramp stops, or embankments.

Other hazards can also lead to injury or death. Improper mounting and dismounting of the skid steer can result in serious slips and falls. Overtaxed hydraulic systems may develop high pressure leaks and fail within close proximity to the operator, which may result in an injection of hydraulic oil into a person’s body. Injection of hydraulic oil can result in an amputation of a limb if not treated quickly and properly. Hooking and unhooking attachments may result in severe crushing or pinching injuries to hands and fingers.

Skid-Steer Machines and Stability

The skid steer’s center of gravity is constantly shifting as the machine is used. Sitting on a level surface, two-thirds of the skid steer’s weight is in the rear section of the machine and low to the ground at the rear axle. Lifting a load transfers weight to the front axle: the higher the load the higher the skid steer’s center of gravity. Excessive weight in the bucket (stone or feed) or attachments (rock hound or tree pincher) can tilt the machine forward. Loads must be carried low to keep the center of gravity low. At the same time, do not carry the load so low that the bucket or attachment digs into or hits obstacles or curbing. Know the manufacturers weight limit and do not exceed this limit.

Moving a skid-steer over uneven ground is often necessary. Rules governing the machine’s center of gravity should be remembered and practiced. Keep the heavy part of the machine and load pointed uphill. If traveling with no load, keep the back end of the machine pointed uphill (go downhill frontward; go uphill in reverse). If traveling with a load, keep the load pointed uphill (back down the hill; travel forward up the hill).

ROPS, FOPS, Side-Screens and Operator Restraints

A skid steer without a rollover protective structure (ROPS), a falling object protective structure (FOPS), side screens and an operator restraint invites injury and death. The ROPS provides protection against being crushed by the machine should it overturn. The FOPS provides overhead protection against tree limbs, overhead hazards (e.g., construction sites), and loads that may fall from the loader bucket. Side-screens eliminate the risk of the operator reaching out of the cab, or co-workers and bystanders reaching into the cab, and becoming caught between lift arms and the skid steer frame.

A seat belt or seat-bar restraint helps keep the operator in the skid steer seat and in control

of the machine. A sudden pitch forward of the machine can throw the operator out of the cab. In the event of an overturn the operator will stay secured inside the cab. ROPS, FOPS, side-screens and seat restraints have been offered as standard equipment on skid steers for many years. These safety features work together to provide a “zone of protection” for the operator. Newer skid steer machines should have an escape hatch in the roof or rear window: be sure the escape hatch is operational, but do not remove it unless in an emergency. If your machine does not have all these devices, talk to a dealer about retrofitting or upgrading your machine.

Interlocks and Attachment Locks

Interlock devices may refer to electrical (ignition) or hydraulic system locks tied into the operator restraint system or to mechanical locks of the lift arms. An operator restraint interlock system will prevent the engine from being started or hydraulic controls from being engaged if the operator restraint is not fastened or positioned correctly. Do not disable this interlock and insist that everyone use it.

Hydraulic cylinder lift arm lockout devices may be engaged from inside the operator’s cab or may be engaged outside the cab at the hydraulic cylinder. When the boom is in the up position for any repair or maintenance, the lift arm hydraulic cylinder lockout device must be engaged. Countless deaths from crushing have occurred when lift arms were not blocked. Be sure that all operators understand the severity of the risk and know how to engage lockout devices. If the lockout device is not working, fix it.

Attachments to the lift arms must be securely fastened. It is difficult to secure these lock levers from inside the cab. Standing up in the cab and leaning out to lock these attachments increases the risk of falling out and being run over. Shut off the machine, exit it properly, and then secure the locking levers. An assistant can also lock the levers. Be sure to shut down the machine before the assistant moves in to avoid the risk of crushing the helper between the bucket/accessory and the lift arms or skid steer itself. Make sure that an inexperienced helper has been properly trained on how to securely fasten locking levers. A bucket or landscape accessory that is improperly fastened can come loose when it is raised or used, increasing risk to operators and on-ground helpers.

Reverse Signal Alarms/Beacon Lights

Reverse signal alarms and beacon lights may not be standard equipment on all farm or landscape skid steer machines, depending upon age of the machine. Some construction sites and their business contract requirements call for landscap-

Skid-steer safety for farm and landscape

operation: bystanders (especially children) can be in blind spots. Valuable property (e.g., buildings, equipment) may also be in blind spots and can be destroyed when hit by the skid steer.

Never swing, lift, or move a load over a person. Position yourself to avoid bumping control levers.

Wear snug fitting clothing that will not catch on levers.

Develop knowledge of standard hand signals for communications.

Learn to smoothly operate the skid steer’s moving, steering, and lift controls.

Know the materials you are loading. Objects like large stones can fall out of the bucket into the operator’s cab when the bucket is rolled back too far.

ers to have operable skid steer reverse signal alarms and beacon lights. These alarms give notice to on-ground co-workers of the movement of the skid steer. Use these alarms and maintain them to reduce risk of running over and pinning co-workers between the machine and an obstacle. Reverse signal alarms and beacon lights are economical and easy to install. Check with your dealer to learn more about backup alarms and beacon lights.

Hydraulic System Safety

Hydraulic pressure systems pose many hazards that may be overlooked. Hydraulic system pressure often exceeds 2000 pounds per square inch (psi). Pin-hole leaks can develop from hoses even if there is no visible damage. If a leak is suspected, do not use your hand to search for the leak. Injury from injected hydraulic oil will demand immediate emergency medical treatment. If treatment is not obtained, it may result in amputation of the hand or arm. Use a piece of cardboard or mirror to inspect for leaks by passing the material over the suspected leak. Leaks should be fixed immediately. If you are an employee, report suspected leaks to the owner of the machine or your supervisor. Eye protection should be worn while checking for hydraulic leaks. Hydraulic hoses and fittings become very hot and severe burns can result by grabbing these components. Wear gloves or place your hand near the hydraulic part to sense for heat before touching it.

Connecting hydraulic hoses must be done with safety in mind. Be sure hoses are correctly routed to avoid pinching between lift arms and the bucket or attachment to prevent damage.

Landscape accessories that can pivot (e.g., rock rakes and tree augers) can pinch the hydraulic hose with potential for loss of pressure under load and/ or spraying the operator with hot hydraulic oil. Before disconnecting hydraulic hoses, shut down the machine and relieve the system pressure by working the control handle back and forth. High pressure in the system may prevent disconnecting the hoses if it is not relieved.

Personal Protection

Skid steers are often operated in dirty and dusty environments, inside buildings where machine noise reverberates off walls and exhaust fumes become trapped. They may be operated in situations that require manual operations in close proximity to the skid steer. All operators should wear a bump cap or hard hat, steel-toed shoes, long pants and gloves. Depending upon the machine and where and how it is being operated, hearing protection and eye protection should also be worn. Always wear eye protection when checking hydraulic hoses and connections. To protect against a buildup of machine exhaust fumes, open as many doors and windows as possible, use large exhaust fans, and shut off the machine and take frequent breaks outside the building. These recommendations are especially important if there is a strong smell of exhaust fumes in the air.

OSHA Regulations

Current OSHA standards and regulations for agriculture and landscaping do not specifically address skid steers. However, OSHA regulations require employers to protect hired workers from several hazards associated with operating and maintaining machinery, and from generally recognized hazards. Therefore common safe use issues that must be addressed in agricultural and landscape situations include the following: ROPS and FOPS, guarding of pinch points and crush points, operator restraint, hydraulic cylinder lockout, warning signs, handholds and steps, and training requirements, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

OSHA is restricted from expending funds to enforce standards in agricultural operations and other small businesses that have 10 or fewer employees, but this restriction does not exclude agricultural or small businesses from OSHA regulations. The distinction between not being able to enforce regulations while still being subject to the regulations is important because of what is called OSHA’s “general duty clause.” The general duty clause is applicable to employers even if they have only one employee. This clause imposes a duty on the employer to provide a place of employment free of recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious injury even if no specific standard is applicable.

To prove a general duty clause violation, OSHA must show that the hazard in question is: a) foreseeable in the workplace; b) recognized by the employer or industry; c) likely to cause death or serious injury; and d) feasible to correct. The hazards of skid-steer operation and methods for preventing and controlling these hazards are well known and feasible. Ignoring these hazards could result in significant penalties for an employer should an employee become injured while operating the skidsteer. Additionally, because these hazards and their prevention are well recognized, an injury resulting from ignoring the hazard exposes the employer to civil suits by the injured party, their family or their insurance company.

Operating the Skid-Steer

In addition to the hazards and issues discussed, there are many more suggestions relating to operator actions and behaviors important to safe skid

Use the 3-point method to enter and exit the skid-steer: two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet are in contact with the machine at all times. Always use foot pads and hand holds. Side entrance skid steer machines improve accessibility for the operator because they do not have to climb over attachments.

Drugs, alcohol, and even medications can impair the operator’s ability to react. Heed warnings of medications that restrict the operation of machinery for the prescribed period of time.

Use tie-down attachments to secure the skid steer when transporting it on a trailer.

When finished with the skid steer, lower the bucket to the ground to park safely.

Avoid operating on slopes, ditches, and embankments when possible.

Scope out the work area for obstacles to smooth operation.

Observe whether overhead utility wires are near the work area.

Know the location of underground utilities if you are digging into the ground.

Avoid working with any type of pile or embankment that is higher than the operator’s station or that could result in being buried in place should the pile or embankment collapse (e.g., undercutting large silage piles or high embankments).

Summary

By following the suggestions offered in this fact sheet and in your skid-steer owner’s manual serious injury and death from skid-steer operations can be avoided. Readers can find additional safety references and training materials by visiting the web sites of the Farm and Ranch eXtension in Safety and Health (FRESH) and the Association of Equipment Manufacturer’s, or by contacting skid-steer dealers and manufacturers. Spanish language versions of safety references and training materials are available from both FRESH and AEM.

risk associated with skid steer uses: No riders any -

steer operation. Operator error often overshadows machine safety design. Following these operating suggestions will significantly reduce hazards and where: not in the bucket and not in the operator’s lap (e.g. toddlers)

Learn the blind spots of

National Hugging Day

When is National Hugging Day? This holiday is always celebrated on

What a great day it’s going to be! It is an opportunity to give and to receive. Give a hug, and you automatically receive one in return. Sure, someone might not hug back. But, how often does that happen!?!

Hugs are loving. They are therapeutic. Hugs are caring. They are celebratory, too. And, they make you feel good inside. It is a way to say everything is or will be okay. Have you ever received one from someone who didn’t care? I didn’t think so. That’s proof positive that you’re loved and cared about.

Celebrate today by giving the “big squeeze” to family, friends, and loved ones. You’ll love the warm feeling you get. How to Participate in National Hugging Day Greet everyone you meet with a big smile. Immediately follow that up with a big, friendly hug.

Kids don’t forget a big squeeze to hug your teddy bear and all of your other stuffed animals. Hug your pets, too.

National Save the Eagles Day

When is it? Every January 10th When was it founded? 2015 Who founded it? Ridgefield Village Park community and the Bergen County Audubon Society

With eyesight that is eight times better than humans, majestic eagles build their nests on top of high cliffs to get the best vantage point. And with a grip that is up to ten times stronger than humans, eagles are incredibly powerful. Both of these attributes make them amazing hunters. But there was one point when these birds almost became extinct.

National Save the Eagles Day is here to raise awareness about and promote the plight of these marvelous birds.

History of National Save the Eagles Day

Native to North America, Bald eagles were on the endangered species list for several decades but, thankfully, they were saved from extinction and removed from the list in 2007.

While bald eagles and golden eagles are the most well-known in Canada and the US, there are 60 different species of eagles that live all over the globe, many of them in Eurasia or Africa. These birds of prey have large wingspans and spend a lot of their time looking relaxed as they glide effortlessly throughout the air.

National Save the Eagles Day was founded by the local community of Ridgefield Village Park and the Bergen County Audubon Society in an effort to rescue one particular couple of eagles whose habitat was at risk.

When these two eagles, named Alice and Al, built their home in Ridgefield overlooking Overpeck Creek, there was some concern about health risks that might be involved and a development corporation decided to remove the eagles. However, the local community was unhappy with the solution and they decided to organize a way to allow this eagle couple to keep their home. And they succeeded!

Even though National Save the Eagles Day was originally established around a specific set of eagles, it has now gained traction and the celebration has spread! #####

People don’t sneeze in their sleep due to their brain shutting down the reflex. #####

There are twice as many pyramids in Sudan then there are in Egypt.

Sudan has somewhere between 200 to 255 pyramids, while Egypt is home to just 118 to 138 of them.

Pteronophobia

If you’ve ever felt uneasy around feather blankets or pillows, this could be why!

Pteronophobia is the fear of feathers tickling you. In extreme cases, it can involve the fear of feathers in general.

Pteronophobia is made up of the Greek word ptero, meaning “feather,” and phobia, meaning “fear.”

Beretta Winkowitsch finished second in the Sub-Novice B and Junior dog showmanship divisions at the Marias Fair dog show. Beretta also had a market steer and yearling heifer for show in addition to her woodworking and photography exhibits. Photo by Kari Lewis.

National Daisy Day

No matter how they are grown or what color they are, whether their stems are long or short, the daisy is a flower that brings enjoyment and pleasure to anyone and everyone.

Quick facts

When is it? Every January 28th

Daisies are a delightful family of flowers that offer a huge range of colors and a seemingly infinite number of varieties. With more than 20,000 different varieties, the daisy is a flower that is prolific and yet also very special. Considered to be ‘tender perennials’, certain daisies are able to stay alive over the winter as long as they are in warmer climates. However, in cooler climates, daisies are typically treated as annuals.

National Daisy Day is here to honor and draw attention to this bright and beautiful flower!

History of National Daisy Day

Daisies can be traced back thousands of years to Ancient Egypt when they were grown not only for their beauty, but for their medicinal qualities. Europeans have also enjoyed daisies for many hundreds of years and they have come to symbolize purity, new birth, and cheerfulness.

While some gardeners may have originally considered daisies to be a weed, it’s obvious that this flower offers much to the environment in the way of beauty as well as health. Some people don’t realize that many of the varieties of daisies are edible and healthy when eaten in salads or used to decorate sweet baked goods such as cakes.

Daisies have also been known to contain medicinal properties. For instance, wild daisy tea can be used for a number of maladies, including cough, kidney problems, bronchitis, inflammation and problems with the liver. Others have used the therapeutic benefits of the daisy for childbirth pain and difficulties, arthritic joints and aches (particularly for gardeners), healing wounds and scrapes, and so much more.

National Daisy Day was founded to show appreciation for this flower that is more than just a pretty face!

Speaking “Tourist”

Here are some of the silliest comments and questions park rangers have received from tourists at U.S. and Canadian national parks.

“How far is Banff from Canada?”

“At what elevation does an elk become a moose?”

“Do you have a glacier at this visitor center?”

“Is this a map I’m looking at?”

“We had no trouble finding the park entrances, but where are the exits?”

“The coyotes made too much noise last night and kept me awake. Please eradicate those annoying animals.”

“Where does Bigfoot live?”

“When do they turn off the waterfalls?”

“There are too many rocks in the mountains”

“Don’t all Canadians wear raccoon hats? Where can I buy one?”

“How come all of the war battles were fought in national parks?”

“How many miles of undiscovered caves are there?”

“Are the national parks natural or man-made.”

“Is there anything to see around here besides the scenery?”

“Are you allowed to stay overnight in the campgrounds?”

“Is this island completely surrounded by water?”

At Glacier National Park Tourist: How did these rocks get here?

Ranger: They were brought down by a glacier.

Tourist: But I don’t see any glacier.

Ranger: Really? I guess it’s gone back for more rocks.

The Tropics

The Tropics is a band between two imaginary lines that circle the Earth, parallel to the equator. The Tropic of Capricorn is 23 degrees south of the equator and the Tropic of Cancer is 23 degrees north of it. The distinguishing characteristic of the region is that the Sun is directly overhead at least once a year. This makes for very warm climates to locales like Brazil, Polynesia, and northern Australia. The two Tropics are named after the constellations where the Sun was positioned, in ancient times, during the summer solstice. #####

A redneck’s last words are always, “Hey y’all, watch this!”

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1993 Fiat Allis FG105A motor grader, 8.3 Cummins diesel, Powershift transmission, articulated, 14-ft. moldboard, front dual direction plow available, only 4,400 original hours Call

2008 International 7500 boom truck, diesel, Allison automatic, Terex Commander 7000 boom, remote control, outriggers, 18-ft. flatbed with stake racks, 102,000 miles, absolutely like new condition Call

2001 Oshkosh H2723G2 runway snowplow truck, 20-ft. dual direction snow plow, 60 series diesel, Allison automatic, pristine, perfect condition, ready to work with only 2900 hours Call

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#####

Even though dragonflies have six legs, they cannot walk.

#####

Gummy bears were originally called “dancing bears.”

#####

Sea otters have the thickest fur of any mammal, at 1 million hairs per square inch.

Montana’s Next Generation Conference

The 2023 Montana’s Next Generation Conference is back and in-person on Saturday, January 28 at the Shelby High School in Shelby, MT. The conference will provide 36 workshops to choose from including recordkeeping, market outlooks, marketing, crop and livestock production, succession planning and business topics.

Each hour, participants will be able to choose from six different workshops to attend. Topics will include workshops designed for beginning producers as well as advanced knowledge for continuing education. Pesticide points have been applied for and will be posted if approved prior to the conference.

Crop production workshops will feature a variety of interests this year. Chester area producer, Cory Hawks, will be a new presenter at this year’s conference and will delve into Regenerative Agriculture and how it has changed the face of their multi-generation family operation. David Weaver, Montana State University Professor, will share his research on how to make the best of grain storage including bin preparation and what problems to watch for when storing grain for extended time periods. Charles Good of Max Ag of Montana will cover two workshop slots with a beginning precision agriculture presentation for those just getting started and then into a second hour of how to make the information work for the end user.

Livestock Production topics will include an interactive presentation by Glacier County Extension Agent Kari Lewis on EPDs and selecting replacement seedstock. Livestock Nutrition and Veterinary topics will provide additional learning opportunities as well.

As producers see inflation affecting their inputs costs across the board, Joel Schumacher, MSU Extension Economics, has assembled an interesting look at inflation – “How did we get here and what next in 2023? This will be followed by workshops on financials: Production and Financial Recordkeeping with Lacy Roberts, Glacier County FSA, “Making your Financials Work for You” with Northwest Farm Credit Services, “Protecting Your Assets” and “Financial Fixes” with Jane Wolery of Sterling Solutions as she helps families develop ways to improve their communication on finances and make family budgeting a fun challenge.

The 2023 markets will be another key topic of the conference with Lance Wilson of Integrity Consulting Company providing two workshops on the 2023 Market Outlook with one designed towards livestock producers and one for crop producers. For those looking at direct marketing, Valier area rancher Jennie Becker will cover lessons learned while setting up their ranch business for direct sale of beef and pork. Karoline Rose, KRose Cattle Co., will present two workshops – Livestock Marketing 101 and then taking it to the Internet with Social Media Marketing 101.

There has been continued interest in what programs are available through USDA especially with the Inflation Reduction Act containing funds for agriculture programs. Stacy Eneboe, GFA Resource Conservationist, Lad Barney, Rural Development and Choteau County Executive Director Bill Evans will present on how to get started with their agencies along with updates over the past year.

Dedicated attendees of the conference will be excited to see some of their favorite speakers from years past will be back with great new topics. Britney Tempel of Montana Roots Accounting will spearhead a discussion on selecting an entity for your farm or ranch and what considerations a producer needs to consider along with how to address deferred income. Marsha Goetting, MSU Extension Family Economics Specialist, will have two workshops this year as producers keep their eye on estate planning. Her first workshop will cover what items are needed for developing a will and the second will address how to approach the retirement years and prepare for Medicaid and Medicare implications.

Minimizing risk is always a key topic. Travis Clark and Holly Hovland of Leavitt Great West Insurance Services will cover General Liability Insurance and Workman’s Compensation. Megan Hedges of Northern Plains Insurance will help beginning producers with a Crop Insurance 101 workshop on where to get started.

Helium exploration along the Hi-Line has caused landowners and lease holders alike to question what rights and options they have when they may not own the mineral rights but still want to keep the surface in pristine condition. Don and Brian Lee of Lee Law Office specialize in Oil and Gas legal topics and will cover these timely topics.

As producers come out of a rough couple of years of

Montana’s Next Generation Conference

drought, the Montana Drought and Climate Project group will be on hand for an update on what they have learned from producers across the state and how producers are working to minimize the results of extreme drought. Martin Townsend of Ranchers Stewardship Alliance will continue this theme with a presentation on how to utilize a land monitoring software along with partnering with wildlife conservation industry as producers look for a win-win for ranchers, conservation and Montana communities.

Advocacy for agriculture is a key topic in this era. Jason Laird, Montana Wheat and Barley Committee, and Steve Sheffels, a farmer from Great Falls area, will be on hand for a workshop on how they have been active in the grain industry and what key issues lie ahead for crop producers in Montana.

Farm Service Agency (FSA) borrowers can complete their borrower training requirements by attending six workshops and completing an evaluation at the end.

For a full list of all the conference topics, agenda and registration, check it out online at www.mtnextgen.com or paper registration forms are available from your local extension office. Early registration discounts are available through Monday, Jan. 16, and the final registration deadline is Jan. 23. Best Western has a block of rooms reserved for $99.99/ night and Comfort Inn has rooms at $89/night for a single room and $94/night for a double. Please mention “Montana’s Next Generation Conference” for the discounted rate.

Persons with disabilities who require accommodations to attend or participate in this event should contact Lacy Roberts at (406) 873-5618, ext. 2 or Federal Relay Service at 1 (800) 877-8339 by Jan. 17, 2023.

Leech

His parents abandoned him at birth because he had green skin and hollow eyes. Even his superhero friends (Leech is a minor character in X-Men comics) avoid him because his power is to negate the powers of those around him.

The deadline for advertising in the February 2023 issue of the Trader's Dispatch will be February 1st. Phone (406) 271-5533 or email: advertising @tradersdispatch.com

Stevensville agricultural educator selected for national award

Trevor Motley, agricultural educator at Stevensville Public Schools in Montana, is one of six agricultural educators nationwide who received the 2022 National Association of Agricultural Educators Ideas Unlimited award, presented during the 2022 NAAE Convention, November 29 through December 3, in Las Vegas.

The NAAE Ideas Unlimited award is presented to NAAE members to recognize them for their innovative ideas that optimize student success and development. The Ideas Unlimited Award is sponsored by National Geographic Learning | Cengage Learning.

Motley won the award because of his Historic Wooden Stool Project, a teaching unit that connects students to state and regional history and Indian education through the school district’s agricultural technology and mechanics laboratory. Motley leads his middle school students through lessons that focus on American Indians and early settlers in the area, including learning about Father Ravalli, a local historical symbol who was

influential for tribes in the Pacific Northwest. Students then create replica stools like the ones that Father Ravalli built in the mid 1800s. This project requires students to utilize all of the skills they’ve learned previously and be able to read and understand written plans, utilize measurements down to the eighth-inch, and safely utilize a variety of power tools.

NAAE is the professional organization for agricultural educators with over 8,000 members nationwide. The organization advocates for agricultural education, provides advancement through professional development for agricultural educators, and works to recruit and retain agricultural educators in the profession. NAAE offers a variety of programs and services to support this threepronged mission. The mission of NAAE is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” NAAE is headquartered in Lexington, Ky.

Updates to crop insurance plans broaden access for some producers

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is improving two of its most comprehensive risk management safety net programs, Whole-Farm Revenue Protection (WFRP) and Micro Farm, making them more accessible to America’s agricultural producers. This includes doubling the maximum insurable revenue under WFRP, now $17 million, more than tripling the size of farm operations eligible for Micro Farm, now $350,000 and reducing paperwork requirements for WFRP. These improvements are in direct response to feedback from stakeholders as USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) recognizes the important role these insurance options play for many producers, including specialty crop, organic and direct market producers.

“Listening to farmers and ranchers, learning about their needs and increasing access to resources are all priorities for us at RMA,” said RMA Administrator Marcia Bunger. “Over the past year and a half, we have rolled out a number of improvements to WFRP, as well as introduced the new Micro Farm program, and through updates to Whole Farm Revenue Protection and Micro Farm, RMA can now help even more local food, direct market, specialty crop and organic producers protect their operations.”

Whole-Farm Revenue Protection

The WFRP program provides protection for all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy. Now, producers can insure up to $17 million in revenue (formerly $8.5 million).

Other updates to WFRP include:

Allowing a producer to report and selfcertify yield at the beginning of the year for commodities without other insurance options in a way similar to those with individual crop policies. This will significantly reduce the amount of paperwork required to apply for WFRP.

Eliminating expense reporting to reduce paperwork burden. In place of expense reporting, WFRP will reduce the expected revenue of commodities a producer is unable to plant to 60%, similar to prevented planting for other programs.

These updates build on others recently made to WFRP, including expanded coverage and flexibilities for organic producers.

Micro Farm

The Micro Farm program, offered through WFRP, provides a risk management safety net for all eligible commodities on a farm under one insurance policy, but on a smaller scale. Now, producers with farm operations up to $350,000 in approved revenue (formerly $100,000) can get coverage. RMA introduced the new Micro Farm program in 2021 to better serve direct market and small-scale producers. While the program is well received and feedback has been largely positive, industry partners and small, diversified producers have informed RMA that the current limit is too low to meet the needs of many interested producers. In response, the FCIC approved the increase in size for eligible farm operations.

The updates to WFRP and Micro Farm take effect in crop year 2023.

The bird on the Twitter logo is named “Larry.” He was named after the basketball player Larry Bird, who played for the Boston Celtics.

Popular herbicides no longer control kochia in some areas

A North Dakota State University study showed that some kochia populations in western North Dakota likely have developed resistance to commonly used preplant burndown herbicides.

For many years, no-till farmers have used Aim (carfentrazone) and Sharpen (saflufenacil) either just prior to planting or after planting to control emerged kochia and other annual weeds.

“Kochia has been difficult to control during the prolonged drought of the past several years,” says Brian Jenks, weed scientist at the NDSU North Central Research Extension Center. “Kochia thrives in dry conditions, and herbicides can be less effective when plants are drought-stressed. However, the NDSU study showed that recent lack of control is not due solely to drought stress, since plants survived these herbicides with little damage in the greenhouse.”

Aim and Sharpen are classified as Group 14 herbicides that control weeds by inhibiting the protoporphyrinogen oxidase (PPO) enzyme, which leads to disruption of plant cell membranes. Susceptible weeds typically die within a few days

In the NDSU study, a known susceptible kochia population was easily controlled by Aim and Sharpen. However, Aim showed very little activity on four kochia populations from across western North Dakota. Sharpen caused some necrosis on kochia leaves and stunted growth, but most plants survived and had 2- to 8-inches of re-growth two weeks after treatment.

“The potential loss of Aim and Sharpen as effective herbicides for kochia control is staggering because affected farmers will have limited control options remaining,” says Jenks.

In addition, Aim is a component of other common herbicides like Spartan Charge (Aim + Spartan) and Anthem Flex (Aim + pyroxasulfone), which rely on Aim to effectively control emerged weeds. Sharpen also is a component of products like Verdict (Sharpen + Outlook) and Zidua Pro (Sharpen + Pursuit + Zidua) that rely on Sharpen to control emerged weeds.

Alternatives to Aim and Sharpen

Other products that can be used as alternatives prior to some crops to control emerged kochia include Gramoxone, Liberty and Dicamba. Gramoxone can be used preplant or preemergence in most crops; however, Liberty and Dicamba can only be used in a limited number of crops. Gramoxone tank mixed with metribuzin also has shown good synergism to control emerged kochia as well as provide some residual control. However, Metribuzin can only be used in a limited number of crops.

“An extremely important question that still needs to be answered is the effectiveness of other Group 14 herbicides like Spartan and Valor that are used for residual kochia control,” says Jenks. “Spartan and Valor are used in many crops to control kochia by root uptake just after seed germination, rather than foliar control after the weed emerges. Based on experience with other weeds, there is a chance that Valor and Spartan may still provide acceptable residual kochia control.”

Some waterhemp and Palmer amaranth populations have been shown to be resistant to foliar-applied Group 14 herbicides used in soybean such as Flexstar and Cobra. However, research has shown that Valor and Spartan still provide effective control or only slightly reduced control of waterhemp or Palmer amaranth populations resistant to foliar-applied PPO-inhibitors. Currently, it is not known how the kochia populations in western North Dakota will respond to the residual Group 14 products, but it will be a focus of future NDSU research, says Jenks.

NDSU recommends monitoring fields three to five days after applying preplant burndown herbicides to verify that weeds are being controlled. Kochia should be sprayed when small (<3 inches). Where possible, use multiple effective modes of action in a tank mix for burndown or postemergence applications.

For more information on controlling kochia, visit www. ndsu.edu/agriculture/ag-hub/ag-topics/crop-production/ diseases-pests-and-weeds/weeds or contact your local county office of NDSU Extension.

A shoe

On September 18, 1977, the Tennessee Valley Authority had to close its Knoxville nuclear power plant. The plant stayed shut for 17 days at a cost of $2.8 million. Cause of the shutdown: “human error.” A shoe had fallen into an atomic reactor.

When is National Hat Day? This holiday is always observed on January 15 National Hat Day, a January 15 holiday, exists to encourage you to wear and enjoy a hat of your choice and style. Isn’t it great that hats come in all shapes, sizes, colors, and styles? There’s one to fit every size head and personality, too. Most people wear them, And, people who wear them have several.

Hats are used to make a statement or to promote a cause or a product. Back in 1797, the introduction of the Top Hat almost caused a riot. It was first worn by James Heatherington in London England. As Heatherington strolled through the streets of London, England displaying his Top Hat, crowds gathered, Some people began to push and shove. Heatherington was fined for “going about in a manner that frightened timid people”. Apparently, that is a law in London.

Oh yeah… hats have practical uses, too. For example, helmets offer safety protection. Some hats keep your head warm, or the sun out of your eyes….how boring.

National Hat Day is not intended to just keep your noggin warm. It’s a chance to make a statement and display your favorite headgear. We suggest you wear several different hats over the day.

Did you know? More body heat is lost from your head than other parts of the body. So, wearing a hat goes a long way towards staying warm on a cold winter’s day (or night).

How to Participate in National Hat Day Go out in public in style today with your best hat.

We dare you to go out wearing a Top Hat. Add to your collection. Buy a new hat or baseball cap.

The deadline for advertising in the February 2023 issue of the Trader's Dispatch will be February 1st. Phone (406) 271-5533 or email: advertising @tradersdispatch.com

Prescribed burning for control of cedar trees

By Jerry Volesky

Eastern red cedar trees are a significant and expanding problem across many pasture and rangeland acres in Nebraska. When fire is planned and controlled properly, it can be a very useful tool to control these unwanted plants.

It is estimated that a single cedar tree with an 8-foot diameter could reduce forage production by 3 pounds. If you had a density of 200 trees per acre, that would translate into nearly a 1/3 loss in forage production because of the effects of area coverage, moisture use, and shading.

In addition to cedar tree impacts on forage production, excessive cedar trees will also dramatically alter habitat for many wildlife species that are adapted to a grassland environment. While mechanical cutting or shredding and herbicides are options to control cedar trees, a

prescribed burn is by far the most economical approach.

Safe and controlled prescribed burns don’t just happen. It takes preparation, planning, and an understanding of how fire reacts in certain weather conditions, with particular fuel loads, and on various types of topography.

You can begin to learn how to conduct a safe, legal, and effective prescribed burn by attending one of several prescribed fire training workshops held during January and February. Pheasants Forever, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, and other conservation partners sponsor the workshops that will be held at various location across Nebraska.

To see a list of locations and dates, search on the internet for ‘Nebraska Prescribed Fire Workshops’.

Choke and croak

It figures that an industry as mistrusted as car sales would have its own slanguage. See how many of these expressions you overhear the next time you’re in the market for a car.

Monroney: The window sticker on a new car (named for U.S. senator Mike Monroney, who authored the 1958 legislation that requires them).

Third Baseman: Someone who accompanies a potential car buyer because they’re unable to negotiate the sale by themselves.

Be-back: A potential buyer who leaves the lot without buying anything, but who promises he’ll “be back”.

Be-back Bus: A mythical vehicle that will someday deliver all the customers who said they’d be back.

Whickers: A car that’s been sitting on the lot for a very long time.

Hit Everything but the Lottery: A car with lots of dents, dings, and scrapes.

Handshaker: A car with a manual transmission (a stick shift).

Bone Thrower: A sunroof.

Toad: A worthless tradein vehicle (it’ll be sold for scrap).

Buried: A customer who owes more on his (or her) trade-in vehicle than it’s worth.

Broom’em: Getting a nonbuying customer off the lot so that he doesn’t waste a saleperson’s time.

Choke and Croak: Disability and life insurance policies that dealerships try to include in a sale.

Mooch: A customer who insists on buying the car at the dealer’s invoice price.

Mop-and-Glow: Paint sealer (an add-on sold to buyers to increase the dealer’s profit).

Unhorse or Dehorse: Hiding a buyer’s trade-in vehicle to keep him from leaving.

Friday Car: A car with a lot of mechanical problems. (It must have been manufactured on a Friday, when the auto workers were rushing to start the weekend.)

National Nothing Day

Date When Celebrated: Always January 16

National Nothing Day is quite simply... a day for nothing.

This day is an “un-event”. The expectation is that we do not create or otherwise promote this day. In other words, we do nothing. And, to say anything more would contradict the purpose of this day.

Celebrate this day by doing....nothing. Of course, that assumes that doing nothing is okay with your boss.

Thought for Today: “If you live to be 100 you’ve got it made. Very few people die past that age.” - - George Burns

History and Origin of National Nothing Day: All we know about this day, is that it was created in 1973 by newspaperman Harold Pullman Coffin.

January 2023 will be Oatmeal Month

Oatmeal cookies, instant oatmeal, Oat grain breads, just to name a few. Oats have been part of the world’s diet. It’s been used for everything from desserts to grain for animals, and is still one of the most popular breakfast menu items in the world.

History of Oatmeal Month

Every month the Whole Grains Council celebrates another staple of the worlds grain supply, and January was selected as Oatmeal Month. We buy more oats in January than at any other time of year, and they stand unique as having never had their bran and germ separated during the process. This is why oats are so amazing for you, you’re getting the whole grain every time you open a package.

There are a variety of ways of producing oats, but the most standard and traditional method is steaming them and rolling them out between steel rollers so that they’re completely flat. How flat they’re pressed changes how quickly they cook. Those who have a love of chewy, nutty oats should give steel-cut oats a try, they’re chopped into tinier pieces to aid in the absorption of water. Unlike most oats, these are cooked for nearly 30 minutes to create a rich and thick porridge.

How to celebrate Oatmeal Month

Oatmeal month is best celebrated by trying out a huge variety of new recipes that include this incredibly versatile and tasty treat. For those who may not have their own favorite recipes, we’re going to share one of our favorites today, the delicious and magnificent treat known as:

Soft Chewy Oatmeal Cookies recipe

1 1/4 c softened butter

3/4 c packed sugar (brown)

1/2 c white sugar

1 Large Egg

1 t vanilla extract

1 1/2 c all-purpose flour

1 t Baking Soda

1 t ground cinnamon

1/2 t kosher salt

1/4 t nutmeg

3 c Oats uncooked

Preheat oven to 375°F. Prepare a large bowl by beating margarine and sugars in it until it’s thoroughly creamed. Mix in the egg and vanilla, and beat the mixture well. Then include flour, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon; mix well. Add in the oats and mix it up. Once it’s thoroughly mixed take round tablespoons of dough and drop them onto ungreased cookie sheets. Then bake them for 8 to 9 minutes, and allow to cool on cookie sheets for 1 minute. Be sure to stow them covered!

Using bad hay and silage

Ben Beckman

Low supply and high costs mean some less-than-ideal feedstuffs may be used this winter. Low quality, mold, and even mycotoxins can all be a risk for poor quality feeds. Can we still make use of these forage options?

Silage put up too wet has likely had a clostridial fermentation resulting in poor quality and high levels of butyric acid. Not only is feed quality reduced, but the stability of the pile once opened drops as well and mold growth on the feeding face is more likely.

In both hay and silage stored too dry, mold growth is a primary concern. Mold reduces feed quality and can limit intake in high quantities. In some circumstances molds can produce mycotoxins, even with low mold counts. Impacts of mycotoxins are wide-ranging and depend on the specific toxin or toxins present and concentrations. Impacts can range from reduced intake to liver and rumen damage to infertility and abortions.

Whether too wet or too dry, these feed options are less than ideal, but can still be used if we take precautions. First, test. Knowing the levels of mold, butyric acid, or mycotoxin in a feed can help with the next step, dilution. Keeping poor feed to a low percentage of the overall diet can allow for use while minimizing risk to livestock. Finally, don’t feed to high-risk animals. Young calves, stressed animals, and those in late gestation are all at higher risk of impact.

Low quality silage and hay comes with risks. Knowing the impact mold, mycotoxins, and butyric acid can have on quality, intake and animal health is important and can help us plan the best way to use these imperfect feed resources.

Patient: “I get a terrible pain in my eye when I drink a cup of coffee.”

Doctor: “Try taking the spoon out.”

NDSU releases corn hybrid variety trial results

The 2022 North Dakota State University (NDSU) Variety Trial Results and Selection Guide for Corn is now available online. It can be accessed at https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/ varietytrials/corn.

“The corn hybrid guide is a good source of information for farmers and agronomists looking for data on hybrid performance in North Dakota,” says Clair Keene, NDSU Extension agronomist for small grains and corn. “This guide contains trial results from NDSU Research Extension Centers, so readers will find locally relevant data from across the state.”

Printed copies can be obtained from NDSU Extension county offices or NDSU Research Extension Centers.

“When selecting corn hybrids, growers are reminded to keep a risk management approach in mind,” says Keene. “Selecting multiple hybrids of varying maturity helps reduce the likelihood that an entire crop will experience stress, for example hot and dry conditions at pollination, at the same time.”

Keene continues, “Additionally, shorter- and mid-season hybrids are more likely to reach maturity prior to first frost and allow time for grain dry down prior to harvest than fullseason hybrids. Also be sure to take a look at grain moisture when making hybrid selections and keep in mind the need to balance yield potential with the possibility of the need for drying when selecting longer season hybrids.”

Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day

Date When Celebrated : Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day is always January 11

This holiday centers around Samuel Morse, the morse code, and the magnetic telegraph machine that was first used to transmit this revolutionary means of communication from one distant location to another. In 1836, Samuel Morse and his compatriots, Alford Vail and Joseph Henry developed morse code. On January 11, 1838, Samuel Morse and Alford Vail demonstrated the use of the electric telegraph to transmit a message in morse code for the first time.

is translated back into alphabetic characters and numbers to form the message. The message allowed for instant, coast to coast communication of information over telegraph lines. Once radios arrived, morse code continued to be a major means of communications. Morse code was in use in the military, ham radios and other means of communication for decades.

Morse code is in danger of disappearing as a means of communications. As of 2007 , knowledge of morse code is no loner a requirement for a ham radio license.

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Did You Know? SOS signals were often sent in morse code. While SOS had no specific translation, it was said to mean “save our souls” or “save our ship”.

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Morse code uses a unique series of dots and dashes, called “dii and dah”, for each letter of the alphabet, and the numbers 0 thru 9. Long before the invention of radios and cell phones, operators used telegraph machines to send messages in morse code. On the receiving end, the morse code

Learn Your Name in Morse Code Day was created to stir up interest in morse code. As a communication tool, morse code is being replaced by modern technology. This special day was created to encourage people to learn and use morse code, and to keep it from disappearing altogether. Hopefully, this day will peak your interest in morse code and you can start to learn more about it, by learning to communicate your name in morse code.

What is a soil carbon credit?

Soil Science Society of America

The agricultural industry is one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions. Incentivizing climate-smart farming practices by creating “soil carbon credits” is one way to reduce the impact of agriculture on the environment. The Soil Science Society of America’s (SSSA) November 15th Soils Matter blog discusses soil carbon credits and carbon markets.Research has shown that farm fields that use cover crops between harvest and planting store more carbon. On the left, the soil is darker, indicating more organic matter (carbon) in the soil. On the right, soil that was not covered, and it is lighter due to less carbon in the soil.

Carbon can be stored in soil in many ways. One very important type of soil carbon is organic matter, which is made of decayed materials from living things like plants, animals and microbes.

With a soil carbon credit system, carbon becomes a valued commodity for growers to gain additional revenue. One soil carbon credit represents 1 metric ton of carbon dioxide or an equivalent greenhouse gas emission that has been reduced, avoided, or removed from the atmosphere.

Soil carbon credits are produced through carbon farming – using best practices that are known to hold carbon in the soils. Other practices that may receive credits might reduce nitrous oxide emissions. The practices vary by field but may include reduced tillage or no till, adding cover crops, rotational grazing, diversifying crop rotations, and reduced fertilizer usage.

The new additional practices slow the rate in which carbon is released into the atmosphere and increases the storage of organic carbon in the soil. In a sense, carbon becomes a new crop.

Growers “harvest” this crop through the collection and submission of data and records. They sell them to a new type of market, the carbon market.

To ensure that the soil carbon credits are high-quality and the practices that generate them are environmentally beneficial, the credits must undertake a thorough vetting process. A project developer brings growers together and conducts all data collection and reporting. The project is then brought to a registry, which has established a set of standards for soil carbon projects.

There are even third-party verifiers who ensure the data, methods, and results are accurate. They check that the results adhere to the registry’s standards. Once verified, the registry approves the project results and issues carbon credits that can be sold on a carbon market. Then, other companies, such as a manufacturer, can buy these credits to offset their carbon footprint.

Montana youth swine exhibitors and breeders recognized

Montana youth swine exhibitors and breeders have been recognized by the Montana Symbol of Excellence program. The program annually honors both 4-H and FFA youth and swine breeders who raise market swine that meet quality standards and show a commitment to producing quality pork products.

The Montana Symbol of Excellence program evaluates carcass and ultrasound data on swine from across Montana, with 32% qualifying in 2022 to be Symbol of Excellence swine, according to Rose Malisani, MSU Extension agent in Cascade County and Montana Symbol of Excellence coordinator. The Symbol of Excellence standards are based on evaluations of live weight, hot carcass weight, back fat, loin area, marbling, color, wetness, muscle and firmness. Malisani added that the swine were raised and exhibited by 4-H and FFA youth who committed to a market swine project from beginning to end.

“The number of swine reported for the Montana Symbol of Excellence has increased, with many outstanding swine being shown by 4-H and FFA members across Montana,” Malisani said. “You can see the hard work from across the state when you look at the quality pork products being produced.”

The Montana Pork Producers Council, along with former MSU Extension Swine Specialists Wayne Gipp and Walt Neuman, created the Montana Symbol of Excellence program before the Pork Act of 1985 to highlight the dedicated work of both youth exhibitors and swine breeders. Data from the program helps the swine industry overall, from young students to experienced pork producers, Malisani said.

The 2022 top youth exhibitors and swine breeders are listed below by division: Light carcass division:

Brielle Berk, Ravalli County. Ryan Toenjes, swine breeder.

Tenley Lien, Phillips County. Cain Super Sires, swine breeder.

Kaycee Stene, Sweet Grass County. Cain Super Sires, swine breeder.

Jeremy Madruga, Ravalli County. Russ Hudson, swine breeder.

Lily Gardner, Ravalli County. Bolles Show Pigs, swine breeder.

Heavy carcass division: Brooklynn Reid, Lincoln County. Cain Super Sires, swine breeder.

Reece Dennis, Ravalli County. BBB Farm Pigs, swine breeder.

Kyra Marmon, Lake County. Ted North, swine breeder.

Alaina Barger, Tri-County Fair. Custis Show Pigs, swine breeder.

Brody Dahl, Tri-County Fair. John Smith, swine breeder.

Ultrasound division: Colton Anderson, Custer County. Millers Show Pigs, swine breeder.

Jessa Morris, Flathead County. Deaton Show Pigs, swine breeder.

Emily Beson, Flathead County. Cain Super Sire, swine breeder.

Riley O’Donnell, Richland County. Full Throttle Show Pigs, swine breeder.

Hannah Richman, Blaine County. Gruszie Show Pigs, swine breeder.

For more information about the Montana Symbol of Excellence program, contact Malisani at 406-454-6980.

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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.

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In Slovakia, they have Christmas Carp that live in the family bathtub for a few days before they are eaten.

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Phone (406) 949-3097

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. $19,500

1998 Skytrak 8042 Telehandler

8,000 lb capacity, 42-ft lift height, 4bt Cummins, 4x4, 3 way steering, 60% 13.00x24 tires, 48” forks, runs and works great, 3900 hrs. $39,500

1998 Caterpillar TH103 Telehandler

10,000 lb capacity, 44-ft lift height, outriggers, 4x4, 3 way steering, 48” forks, 75% 14.00x24 tires, 9100 hrs, runs and works excellent. $43,500

2005 Ford F650

Service Truck

210 hp C7 Cat, 6 spd. manual, AC, PS, PB, 26K GVW, Autocrane 8006H, 8000# capacity, remote, hydraulic outriggers, 12’ service body, under CDL, 50% 22.5 tires. $23,500

1998 Freightliner FL70 Tractor

275 hp 3126 Cat, 7 spd, spring suspension, 32K GVW, 166K miles, 50% 295/75r22.5’s, 150” w.b. runs and drives great, fixed 5th wheel. $12,500

Do you have mold and mycotoxins in your silage?

By Mary Drewnoski, Nebraska Extension Beef Systems Specialist

We typically suggest getting forage tested to determine nutrient content such as energy and protein. But with silage, additional testing may be needed, especially when grown under stressed conditions and/ or put up in less-than-ideal conditions. The presence of mold in silage can decrease the energy value, feed intake, and performance of cattle. Additionally, some molds produce harmful mycotoxins that can impact animal production and health.

Field molds can be an issue in cereal grain crops, including Gibberella, Aspergillus and Fusarium. These molds grow out in the field, and some can remain after harvest. Aspergillus is more likely to be present in drought conditions and thus, may be an issue this year. Aspergillus is a yellow to green mold that can produce mycotoxins (Table 1). Unfortunately, you can have no live field mold present after fermentation but still have the mycotoxins they produced in the field present. This is because once produced, most of these toxic compounds are not destroyed by heat, time, or fermentation. Thus, if you see mold at harvest, it may be a good idea to test for mycotoxins. A basic mycotoxin screening will cost around $170 with individual mycotoxin tests costing around $55.

Storage molds can be a big issue in silage that was put up too dry and this can be amplified if there was poor initial packing. Molds require oxygen from air to grow. Regardless of moisture at packing, uncovered piles are also likely to have increased risk of high mold counts. Common storge molds which tend to grow in silage include: Penicillium, Aspergillus and Monascus.

cur with mold counts greater than 100,000 colony-forming units (cfu) per gram of DM even without mycotoxins present. At 300,000 cfu/g of DM, caution is advised as this can result in reduced feeding value, reduced intake, reduced performance and digestive issues.

Unfortunately, high mycotoxin levels can be found with low mold counts. This is because the amount of mycotoxin produced by mold depends on growing conditions. Unfortunately, not all mycotoxins can be detected in routine testing by commercial laboratories and not all laboratories will test for molds and mycotoxins. Many dairy focused labs such as Dairyland labs, Dairy One, and Cumberland Valley Analytical Services, etc. will do mold counts, mold identification and mycotoxin testing.

If storage mold is present, then feed out rate is even more important. Make sure to feed enough that you remove at least 6 inches per day off the face, with 12 inches being more ideal. Also, do not pull off more than 1 feeding at a time. Mold will start to grow rapidly when exposed to oxygen. A tremendous amount of mold can grow in less than 24 hours. This can significantly reduce the feeding value and increase the risk of negative effects on the cattle being fed.

standard skid steer mounting, double top clamp $2700 ea

1952 Caterpillar D4-HT4 crawler loader, d4-7u, D315 diesel engine runs good, steers good, tracks and undercarriage 60%, pony engine needs work, weighs 18K $2750

2000 Ford F650

Compressor Truck

210 hp 3126 Cat Diesel, 6 spd manual, AC, PS, PB, 90% 11R22.5’s, 26K GVW, 16-ft. service bed, IR 175 cfm diesel powered compressor, hose reels, large hydraulic winch, 210K miles $22,500

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 $19,500

2007 Bobcat 325G

Mini Excavator

3200 hrs, 90% tracks, Kubota diesel, 55” blade, hydraulic thumb, qc 18” bucket, 6200#, runs and works great $28,500

Topcat 72” Grader/Dozer

Attachment

fits standard skid steer mount, 6 way hydraulic, 72” blade, new $5250

The primary feeding concerns related to storage molds are reduced silage nutritional quality, bunk life and palatability. Mold counts can help to determine how much storage mold is present and an identification can help to see if you might have the potential for toxins lurking in your silage. A mold and yeast count with identification typically costs around $30 to $45. Depressed digestibility (reduced energy availability) can oc-

The safe level of mycotoxin is hard to establish as symptoms are often nonspecific and may be wide-ranging. Symptoms result from a progression of effects, or opportunistic diseases, making a diagnosis difficult. Symptoms vary depending on the mycotoxins involved and their interactions with other mycotoxins and stress factors. Table 1 provides the current regulatory guidelines (if any), concentrations at which symptoms have been observed and the potential effect of common mycotoxins. However, it should be noted that contaminated feeds often contain multiple mycotoxins, potentially amplifying the expected effects. In general, young calves and stressed animals are most susceptible to mycotoxins.

While not perfect, mold spore counts and mold identification, coupled with mycotoxin testing if warranted, can be helpful to evaluate if there is a risk of negative effects when feeding silage. This is especially true, for silages that were grown or harvested in

less-than-ideal conditions. Understanding the amounts of mold and mycotoxins present can help with deciding which classes of cattle to feed and how much silage can safely be included in the diet.

New 72” Skid Steer Grapple Buckets

World Snow Day

So much joy can be had when the winter weather comes! As long as you’re dressed appropriately with the right gear, the cold weather doesn’t need to get in the way.

When is it? January 15th, 2023. Third Sunday in January

When was it founded? 2012

Who founded it? The Fédération internationale de ski et de snowboard

Celebrating and participating in winter sports and outdoor fun is a delightful way to spend World Snow Day!

History of World Snow Day

The International Ski Federation (also known as FIS—from their official French title, Fédération internationale de ski et de snowboard) is the organization that founded World Snow Day. The FIS was begun back in 1910, when delegates from ten different countries got together in Norway. Now the world’s foremost governing body for Olympic events such as skiing and snowboarding,

the International Ski Federation includes at least 180 groups of different national skiing organizations. World Snow Day is celebrated on the third Sunday in January each year; the inaugural celebration started in 2012. World Snow Day, however, was the second phase of the FIS campaign to get more kids involved with snow sports. The first phase, which was called ‘Bring Children to the Snow’, began five years earlier. The purpose of World Snow Day is to encourage families to make lasting memories with their children, as well as to offer opportunities for kids to have experiences with winter sports like snowboarding and skiing.

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utritional requirement

• Contains other essential nutrients targeted for each specific crop, ie. Boron to aid pollen tube growth, Zinc to help produce Auxin, to ensure healthy pollen tube growth.

2022 Dawson County 4-H small animal awards

City Codes: C = Cozad, B = Bertrand, L = Lexington, Br = Brady, Oc = Oconto, Ed = Eddyville, O = Overton

Placings for Cat Showmanship, Rabbit Showmanship, Poultry Showmanship and the other small animal projects at the Dawson County Fair were as follows:

Small animal show

Pets/Small Animal – Purple ribbons went to Lexi Johnson (G) who showed her turtle, Sheldon, and Bodee Klemm (L) who showed his salamander.

Cat showmanship

Junior – Mollie Spradlin (C) took home the trophy and a purple ribbon showing her cat. Lynzy Ostergard (C), Tanner Fairley (Br) and Lorelai Rickertsen (L) also earned purple ribbons.

Intermediate – Rieker Spradlin (C) received the trophy and a purple ribbon. A purple ribbon also went to Layla Mariel (L).

Senior – Taylor Kramer (Oc) won the senior showmanship trophy and purple ribbon.

Poultry showmanship

Junior – Dylanger Schledewitz (Oc) received the showmanship trophy and a purple ribbon.

Senior – Gage Schledewitz (Oc) received the trophy and a blue ribbon. Also earning blue ribbons were Austin Kennicutt (B), Ty Kennicutt (B), and Rilyn Schledewitz (Oc).

Poultry

Large Fowl – Blue Longshan Hen – Blue: Austin Kennicutt (B).

Large Fowl – All Other Breeds – Purples: Austin Kennicutt (B) x 2.

Bantam – Birchen Modern Game Cock – Purple: Austin Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Brown Red Modern Game Hen – Blue: Austin Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Modern Game-Brown Red Cock – Blue: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Self Blue Old English Game Hen – Purple: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Self Blue Old English Game Cock – Blue: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Modern Game – Red Pyle Hen – Purple: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Modern Game Splash Hen – Purple: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Modern Game – Red Pyle Cockeral – Blue: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Bantam – Spangled Old English – Purple: Gage Schledewitz (Oc) and Rilyn Schledewitz (Oc). Blue: Dylanger Schledewitz (Oc).

Feather Legged – Cochin Rooster – Blue: Ty Kennicutt (B).

Feather Legged – Silkie Hen – Purple: Rilyn Schledewitz

Don Batie, Lexington; and Junior division poultry showmanship trophy sponsor presents the trophy to Dylanger Schledewitz, Oconto, Nebraska.

Virus undercuts fungus’s attacks on wheat

Jan Suszkiw, USDA

A naturally occurring virus co-discovered by Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and university scientists may offer a way to undermine a costly fungal threat to wheat, barley and other small-grain crops.

The fungus, Fusarium graminearum, is the chief culprit behind a disease called Fusarium head blight, or “scab.” Unchecked with fungicides or other measures, scab diminishes the yield and quality of the crops’ grain. Under wet, humid conditions, the scab fungus can release a toxin called deoxynivalenol (a.k.a., “vomitoxin”) that can contaminate the grain, reducing its point-of-sale value or leading to outright rejection depending on end use.

Now, however, a team of scientists with the ARS Application Technology Research Unit in Wooster, Ohio, and South Dakota State University in Brookings (SDSU) has discovered a strain of a fungal virus, or “mycovirus,” that disables the scab fungus’s vomitoxin-making machinery.

In nature, the mycovirus, a species called Fusarium graminearaum Vg1, infects the scab fungus to replicate and spread. But the new mycovirus strain, dubbed F. graminearum Vg1-SD4, takes such attacks a step further by stopping the scab fungus from making vomitoxin—a fortuitous benefit for wheat plants.

A healthy wheat head (left) stands in contrast to one with Fusarium head blight fungus A “mycovirus” could help stop the Fusarium head blight fungus from contaminating wheat grains and giving them a ghastly bleached appearance (shown at right).

Indeed, in laboratory and greenhouse experiments, cultures of the scab fungus that had been infected with the mycovirus strain grew slower than non-infected cultures and produced no vomitoxin in the grain of susceptible potted wheat plants. In contrast, the grain of wheat plants exposed to mycovirus-free cultures of scab contained 18 ppm of vomitoxin, a byproduct of the fungus’s metabolism that can be harmful to livestock and human health.

ARS molecular biologist Shin-Yi Lee Marzano and her collaborators discovered the mycovirus strain after sequencing its genomic makeup and noticing slight differences from its “parent” species, FgVg1, which had been maintained in a live culture of the scab fungus and known to science for about a decade.

Marzano cautioned that their research—reported in the July 2022 issue of Microorganisms—is still in its early stages. However, with further study, the mycovirus strain could prove useful as a biological control agent that could be formulated and sprayed onto susceptible wheat varieties or other small-grain crops. That, in turn, could potentially offer growers another tool to use in avoiding costly losses to scab and its contamination of grain destined for livestock and human consumption.

Marzano collaborated on the mycovirus strain research with Bimal Paudel and Yang Yen—both with SDSU’s Department of Biology and Microbiology—and Connar Pedersen (formerly SDSU and now ARS).

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Your tonsils could grow back if there were tissue left behind during the removal process. Sometimes it’s accidental; other times, it’s left on purpose.

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Teacher: “Which book has helped you the most in your life?”

Student: “My father’s check book!”

Q: Why did the witches’ team lose the baseball game?

A: Their bats flew away. #####

Q: Why couldn’t the leopard play hide and seek?

A: Because he was always spotted. #####

Q: What starts with E, ends with E, and has only 1 letter in it?

A: Envelope.

2022 Dawson County 4-H small animal awards

(Oc) and Gage Schledewitz (Oc). Blue: Dylanger Schledewitz (Oc).

Feather Legged – Silkie Cockeral – Purple: Rilyn Schledewitz (Oc). Blue: Gage Schledewitz (Oc).

Feather Legged – Cochlin Hen Peach – Purple: Rilyn Schledewitz (Oc).

Ducks – Purples: Austin Kennicutt (B), Ty Kennicutt (B) x 2, Dylanger Schledewitz (Oc), Gage Schledewitz (Oc) x 2, and Rilyn Schledewitz (Oc).

Turkey – Purple: Austin Kennicutt (B).

Grand Champion and Reserve Champion - The Grand Champion trophy was awarded to Gage Schledewitz (Oc) on white Bantam Silkie Hen, and the Reserve Champion placing went to Austin Kennicutt (B) on his Black Sumatra Rooster.

Rabbit showmanship

Junior Division – Purples: Keeley Nichols (Ed), Kollyn Nichols (Ed), and Karsyn Nichols (Ed).

Intermediate Division – Neala McCall (O) received the purple ribbon and showmanship trophy.

Senior Division – There were no Senior Rabbit showmen. Rabbit

Fancy Breed – Doe – Jr. – Purple: Karsyn Nichols (Ed) and Kollyn Nichols (Ed).

Fancy Breed – Doe – Sr. – Blue: Keeley Nichols (Ed).

Fancy Breed – Buck – Jr. – Blue: Neala McCall (O).

Commercial Breed – Doe – Jr. – Purple: Neala McCall (O).

Grand Champion – Kollyn Nichols (Ed) received the grand champion award on his Rex rabbit.

Reserve Champion – Neala McCall (O) received the reserve champion award on her English Lop rabbit.

Kelli

intendent,

Gage Schledewitz, Oconto, won the Grand Champion Poultry trophy with his white Bantam Silkie hen.

(Pictured on the left) Kollyn Nichols, Eddyville, won the Grand Champion trophy with his Rex rabbit and Neala McCall, Overton, (pictured on the right) earned the Reserve Champion rabbit trophy with her English Lop Rabbit.

Schledewitz, Oconto, Assistant Small Animal Super-

presented the trophies.

Versatile canned chicken

By Martha Zepp, Program Assistant, Part-time, Penn State Extension

Canned boneless, skinless chicken can be the basis of many dishes.

Recipe Ideas

Break up and layer the soft meat with refried beans, cheese, shredded lettuce, and salsa for a tasty taco.

Roll these same ingredients in a soft tortilla for a delicious fajita. In fact, canned chicken is suitable for many Mexican dishes.

After opening a jar of canned chicken, thicken the broth with a little flour or cornstarch; add some minced onion, celery and/or parsley flakes, and a few cooked or canned peas for a hearty creamed dish to serve over waffles, toast, or pancakes. Adding dry milk powder to the broth produces a richer flavored gravy.

Make chicken and dumplings using homemade or commercial biscuit mix; just pour a jar of chicken into a pan adding additional broth or water, seasonings and/or vegetables, top with the dumplings and cook the dumplings as directed on the biscuit mix box.

Flake canned chicken into a noodle casserole; top with buttered bread crumbs and slivered almonds; bake until golden brown and you have a dish suitable to serve company.

To use it in cold dishes such as chicken salad, chill the meat first before cutting it into cubes.

If you want large cubes of meat in dishes such as chicken pot pie, add chilled meat just before serving and cook only until heated through.

Procedure for Canning Chicken

Penn State Extension’s Let’s Preserve Meat and Poultry and the National Center for Home Food Preservation provide guidelines on pressure canning chicken.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when canning chicken.

Dressed poultry should be chilled 6 to 12 hours before canning.

If poultry must be held for longer than a few days, freeze it at temperatures of 0°F or lower.

Thaw under refrigeration when you are ready to can it.

Carefully blot the chicken dry with a paper towel, remove excess fat. Fat left on the meat will melt and climb the sides of the jar during processing. If the fat comes in contact with the sealing edge of the lid, the jar may not seal.

Cut poultry into suitable size pieces for canning.

Chicken can be canned with the bone in or boneless.

It can be raw packed or hot packed. Hot packed chicken has a clearer broth because the liquid can be skimmed before packing it into jars.

Wiping the edge of the jar with a clean paper towel dipped in vinegar helps to cut the grease from the rim.

Following the recom -

mended processing times based on style of pack, whether or not canning the product with or without bones, and the type of canner you are using. Go to nchfp.uga.edu.

Procedures for canning duck, goose, and turkey are the same as for chicken. No canning procedures have been tested for canning ground poultry or poultry sausage.

Traditional chicken soup recipes are not suitable for canning. Noodles, rice, dough balls, or thickening agents as in creamed soups interfere with the transfer of heat in the jar and may allow spoilage organisms to grow. Those ingredients need to be added after the chicken and broth have been opened and just before serving.

Chicken vegetable soup made with only vegetables, cooked chicken, and hot liquid may be safely canned following directions for canning plain vegetable soup. Let’s Preserve Soup provides step by step directions for canning vegetable soup using meat or poultry. Remember, as a low acid food soup will need to be canned in a pressure canner.

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None of us is as smart as all of us.

The space shuttle Atlantis (March 2007) brought a lead cargo tag from Jamestown colony in honor of the history of American exploration.

Safety first with livestock

By Morgan Firestine, Penn State Extension

Livestock owners, most times, do not see their animals being a source of danger. Owners and caretakers realize that each animal has a different personality. Some even have thought of their animals as human beings because of their personalities and docility. Many times when this happens, owners forget that they are still animals and this is when injuries occur. It is said that the leading cause of livestock handling accidents is because of poor judgment and the lack of animal behavior knowledge. It is important that safety is the number one priority when working with livestock. Here are some tips to prevent accidents on the farm when working with livestock.

All livestock see things differently and can be startled very quickly by their surroundings. Cattle have almost 360 degree panoramic vision but cannot see directly behind them. All livestock animals see objects in black and white, not in color. Cattle and hogs actually have a difficult time judging distances. All of these reasons explain why it is important to stay calm and avoid the animal’s blind spots when approaching them. The best areas to approach are the front or sides of the animal.

Most injuries are caused by startled animals. Many objects can frighten livestock such as lighting, shadows, strange animals, and loud noises. Cattle are very sensitive to loud noises and can actually hear sounds that humans cannot hear. It is essential that when you are working with livestock you do not yell. High frequency sounds actually harm their ears.

Livestock respond the best to routine. To eliminate skittish animals, establish a routine for them to follow. This does not mean that they need to follow a strict minute by minute plan for the day. It does mean that feeding should be around the same time each day. Your livestock should also get used to seeing the same people at the same time of the day.

No matter how tame your animals are they are still have territorial instincts. Both males and females can be very protective of their area and younger animals. They have strong maternal traits and stand their ground when they are not accustomed to their surroundings. Bulls actually account for more than half of the livestock injuries and deaths. Use extreme caution when working with male livestock. Special facilities should be created to house males and eliminate the amount of time spent in the pen.

When working with animals it is also best to have a plan of action. Know what you need to do, how you will do it, and what are possible scenarios that could happen. For example, if you have to go into a corral with a mother and her newborn, know the plan of action before stepping foot in the pen. It is always best to plan an escape route as well. This could come in handy if the mother feels threatened or becomes territorial and shows off her maternal characteristics by coming after you. Plan ahead and know your way out to decrease the chance of injury.

If you need to take a closer look at your livestock, make sure you announce your presence before getting too close. If livestock are not aware of you when entering their pen, they can become frightened very easily. Talk to the animal quietly while entering the pen. This will eliminate any skittish behavior.

Livestock facilities design is also important to insure the animal’s safety and can minimize startled animals. Many injuries come from poor facilities and equipment. Concrete flooring with a grooved surface, correct drainage, sturdy fencing, eradicating sharp objects, and even lighting should be part of proper handling. Keeping equipment and facilities in good working order is a key part of livestock handling safety.

Finally, respect the livestock you own and do not fear them. The livestock are there to provide you with food and a profit. Know your animals and understand their behavior characteristics to properly take care of them. When you understand behavior it will be easier to work with them. Respect their size, capability, and strength and be alert at all times.

In conclusion, when working with livestock it is best to stay calm and have a quiet voice, avoid blind spots and announce your presence if you need to get close. Also caretakers should keep as close to a routine as possible and have a plan of action when working with livestock. Keep in mind that animals still have territorial instincts and could be dangerous for the caretaker. Respect your animals and do not fear them. These tips will help you put safety first when working with livestock.

In 2008 Garrett Reisman, a New York Yankees fan, brought a vial of dirt from Yankee Stadium onto Discovery

January 10 The world’s first underground passenger railway system opens in London, England.

January 11 Samuel Morse and Alford Vail demonstrate the magnetic electric telegraph using morse code (1838)

• American League baseball adopts the “Designated Hitter” rule (1973)

January 12 Batman debuts on television (1966)

January 14 The United States of America ratifies a treaty with England ending the Revolutionary War. (1784)

• The Miami Dolphins defeat the Washington Redskins in Superbowl VII , and become the first undefeated team in NFL history. (1973)

• The Simpsons debut on television. Will TV ever be the same again!?! (1990)

January 15 The Pentagon opens (1943)

• Happy Days premieres on television (1974)

January 16 Operation Desert Storm begins to oust Saddam Hussein’s’ Iraqi forces from Kuwait. (1991)

January 17 The U.S. Supreme court rules that taping on home VCRs does not violate copyright laws. (1984)

January 20 The Beatles release “Meet the the Beatles”, their first album to the U.S., sparking a new “English invasion”. (1964)

• At 69 years, 349 days old, Ronald Reagan becomes the oldest person to become U.S. president. (1981)

January 21 Edward Jenner introduces the smallpox vaccine, which eventually leads to wiping out this deadly disease.(1799)

• The first Kiwanis club is formed in Detroit. (1915)

• Science fiction writer George Orwell dies. (1950)

January 22 A historic Supreme Court decision in Roe vs. Wade legalizes abortion. (1973)

January 23 The deadliest earthquake in history strikes Shansi, China, killing 830,000 people. (1556)

January 24 Beer was first sold in cans. (1935)

• WWII Yalta agreement signed by the U.S., England, and Russia. The agreement defined how Germany would be divided and administered after the war’s end.(1945)

January 25 The first Winter Olympic games begin in Chamonix, France. (1924)

• The first Emmy awards were given out. (1949)

January 26 The Dental Drill was patented. (1875)

January 27 The Russians liberate Auschwitz in WWII (1945)

• Tragedy strikes the Apollo space program as a fire in the command module kills astronauts Lt. Col. Virgil “Gus” Grissom, Lt. Col. Edward H. White, and Lt. Cdr. Roger Chafee. (1967)

January 28 U.S. space shuttle Challenger explodes 72 seconds after liftoff, killing the seven crew members. Among the crew was school teacher Christa McAuliffe. (1986)

January 29 Baseball’s American League is founded. (1900)

January 30 Tet New Year offensive launched by Viet Cong guerillas in Vietnam. (1968)

January 31 Confederates appoint Robert E. Lee their Commander in Chief.

The first tank was built in 1916 and nicknamed “Little Willie,” it could only go 2 mph and never saw duty in battle.

Now that’s rural: Bret Fitzpatrick, AgrAbility

By Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University

Bret Fitzpatrick was driving to a farm sale when his truck tire blew out on a two-lane bridge. He lost control of his truck, went into the ditch, hit a power pole, rolled three times, and ended up in the water.

When Fitzpatrick came to, he was in the water and could no longer move his legs. That was the beginning of a long, tough journey for this young man who has found ways to adjust to his challenging life in rural Kansas.

Fitzpatrick grew up near Sterling where his family had a diversified crop and livestock operation. He majored in animal sciences and business at K-State. One summer, he got an internship with a meat processing company in Hutchinson and found he enjoyed meat science and food science work. After graduation, he was hired as a food scientist in the research and development department. That company is now part of Tyson Foods.

Fitzpatrick met and married his wife who is from Buhler. He worked for Tyson and helped his dad on the farm. Then the accident occurred. The truck cab was crushed directly behind where Fitzpatrick had been sitting and there were power lines down in the ditch. When he regained consciousness, he was outside the truck and spitting out water.

“I could have been crushed, I could have drowned, I could have been electrocuted, but none of that happened,” he said. A transformer had blown so the electric lines were not live.

Fitzpatrick was flown to Wichita for surgery followed by extensive rehab in Nebraska. He is considered a T-11 paraplegic with a pinched spinal cord.

“I’ve tried not to let it limit me more than necessary,” he said. He returned to work and even works on the farm with his wife and daughter.

In 2009, he was transferred to Tyson corporate headquarters in Arkansas. In 2016, he and his family moved back to the family farm in Kansas where his dad lives. Fitzpatrick continues to work remotely for Tyson and takes care of the cattle. The family maintains a Charolais cowherd and sells purebred bulls.

One day Fitzpatrick was reading a farm magazine and he came across an article about the Kansas AgrAbility project at K-State. “Oh man, I need that,” he said. AgrAbility is a program to assist farmers who are injured or disabled but want to continue in production agriculture.

Fitzpatrick contacted the AgrAbility specialists. They got him in touch with various resources such as the Kansas vocational rehabilitation program, Farm Rescue, and Rise Again.

AgrAbility’s motto is ‘Cultivating Accessible Agriculture.’ AgrAbility does not provide direct financial assistance, but can help people find assistive devices to help with farm work, for example.

“I have an electric four-wheel drive wheelchair and a sideby-side and skid steer that I use a lot,” Fitzpatrick said. He has installed remote controlled gates, seat lifts for his trucks, and other assistive technology.

“It’s a whole world of difference,” he said. Remarkably, he continues to travel, hunt and work cattle. “I can run cattle through the chute by myself,” Fitzpatrick said. He actively hunts turkey, pheasant and deer.

There have been plenty of frustrations. Insurance, for example, would only pay for a manual wheelchair, which is impractical on the farm. Out-of-pocket costs for adaptive devices are very expensive.

“I try to find as many ways as I can to do things independently,” Fitzpatrick said. He’s a remarkable person, living near the rural community of Sterling, population 2,248 people. Now, that’s rural. “Working with AgrAbility has been a very, very positive thing,” he said.

“Bret is a great example of how a positive attitude and creativity can make a real difference,” said Tawnie Larson, AgrAbility consultant. “The AgrAbility team that assisted Bret worked hard to find him resources and make sure they worked for him. AgrAbility is here to keep people just like Bret working and enjoying their rural lifestyle through production agriculture.”

For more information, see www.agrability.ksu.edu.

Super president

On this 1967 cartoon show, American President James Norcross gets caught in a “cosmic storm” and gains the ability to turn himself into steel, water, stone, or electricity.

Nebraska Soil Health School

Check out these amazing opportunities to dive into the science of soil health with UNL. Much of the management of soil health seems intuitive; however, there is foundational knowledge of how soil functions and thrives, which is imperative to understanding and improving the continued capacity of the soil to function, or the soil’s “health”.

A newly designed Nebraska Soil Health School — a oneday workshop — will cover many aspects of the science related to soil health, including the value of the foundational soil health principles, the evaluation of soil health management practices, and many hands-on soil health investigations and demonstrations. We will offer CCA CEUs for those who attend. The goal of this collaborative effort between the UNL and USDA-NRCS is to enhance the technical soilrelated knowledge of Nebraska farmers, ag professionals, UNL faculty/students and USDA NRCS employees. Making connections between each of the participants with leading scientists, local conservationists and others attending the Soil Health School, is also a top priority.

The Nebraska Soil Health School will be held at three locations across the state in 2023. The dates for the Soil Health School have been set as follows:

March 2, 2023 — Venue: Prairie Winds Community Center, Bridgeport, Nebraska.

Week of June 5, 2023 (specific date TBD) — Venue: UNL West Central Research, Extension and Education Center, North Platte, Nebraska.

Week of Aug. 1, 2023 (specific date TBD) — Venue: Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center, Mead, Nebraska.

More detailed information will be posted soon.

Nebraska Soil Health School Coordinators

Bijesh Maharjan, bmaharjan@unl.edu, 308-632-1372

Aaron Hird, aaron.hird@usda.gov, 402-437-4053

Caro Cordova, ccordova4@unl.edu, 402-472-6292

Katja Koehler-Cole, kkoehlercole2@unl.edu, 402-6248037

Nicolas Cafaro La Menza, nicolas.cafaro@unl.edu, 308696-6712

The most valuable investment in the beef herd - the bull

Penn State Extension

Beef producers are responsible for numerous purchases for the cattle enterprise. They often purchase feed, minerals, equipment, and other supplies that many times are promised to be the “best investment for the farm.” There is only one true investment on the farm that can live up to that promise, the bull in the pasture. If you maintain a closed herd, the genes entering the cow herd will come completely from the bulls you select. Following 3 generations of retained heifers, 87.5% of the genetic make-up of the females you return to the herd is the result of the last 3 bulls you purchased. When you consider the long term impact of the bull, you can never buy a bull that is too good.

For the beef cow-calf enterprise the sale of a live calf is the only true source of income. The sale of market cows that did not get bred or lost a calf and the sale of market bulls will generate revenue but it also reduces the capital in the enterprise. The first step in the selection of a bull is having one that will help the cow produce a live calf. To stack the odds in your favor you should select a bull with a breed average or lower birth weight and good calving ease. Following the birth of a live calf the next concern is a calf that will grow and produce the most pounds possible at weaning and sale time for the calf.

Getting the Cow Bred Cow fertility is an important factor for getting the cows bred, but that other story for another time. Fertility in young bulls is a function of age, genetics, nutrition, and environment just to list a few factors. The only objective method for measuring bull fertility is with a breeding soundness examination (BSE). This process combines most of the components that contribute to fertility (scrotal size, sperm concentration, sperm morphology, and a physical exam of the reproductive organs) are all evaluated to develop final a score for a bull. Failure to meet specific benchmarks for any of the factors results in a BSE failure. The test has been proven to be very efficient for measuring bull fertility in the field. One major limitation to a BSE is it is only valid for the test on the day of the test for the semen collection evaluated. Most central bull tests stations conduct a BSE on bulls to be sold through the program. There are a limited number of veterinarians available to provide an on-farm BSE.

Another consideration for yearling bulls is the bull to cow ratio in the herd. Yearling bulls should probably be limited to approximately 15-20 cows depending on the size and actual age of the bull. A yearling should not be expected to service more than one cow per day. If you consider there will be at least one cow in the herd in heat every day in a 21 head cow herd, given on average a 21day reproductive cycle in the cow this is the maximum breeding herd for the young sire. It can be increased to about 30 cows for the 2-yr old. Recent work from Colorado State University established, a mature bull should be able to comfortably service 50 cows for the breeding season. To reduce the bull to cow ratio from 1-50 to 1-40 has the same effect as purchasing insurance. Consider the cost of the cow that has a fertile heat but is not bred until the following heat cycle the next month. In today’s calf market it could likely cost the producer upwards of $150 per calf just from the lost weaning weight.

As mentioned earlier one additional consideration is buying the bull that has a greater chance of producing a live calf. The birth weight of a calf is the single most important factor for calving difficulty. Dif-

ficult calvings and dystocia generally result in dead calves, dead cows and/or cows that do not breed back. Using genetic information such as EPDs for Calving Ease and Birth Weight have proven there will be fewer difficult calvings resulting in more live calves. All breed associations publish the average EPD’s for Calving Ease and Birth Weight in their population of bulls. Selecting bulls that are at or below breed average for these EPD’s for breeding young cows can prove to be very beneficial. Especially keep them below breed average if any heifers are to be retained in the herd from any cows because half of the genes for birth weight are supplied by the dam.

Getting More Pounds

At the current price of calves, the day of buying just any old bull from the sale barn must come to an end. This is most likely the most expensive bull a producer can buy. Given the absence of performance records, you have absolutely no opportunity to either reduce your risk for calving difficulty or increase calf growth and performance resulting in heavier calves at weaning. The technology and information available for selecting breeding cattle is such that there is no reason to buy inferior bulls. Expected progeny differences (EPDs), performance records, and genetic markers are all available to use for bull-buying decision. Consider this example of using EPDs to select two bulls:

Bull A Bull B

Birth weight EPD 2.5 2.5 Weaning weight EPD 50.0 30.0 Price $4000 $2000

These EPDs tell us that, when bred to an average group cows, Bull A will wean calves that are 20 pounds heavier than Bull B, and both will have the same average birth weight. If we use these bulls on an average of 40 cows over 4 years and wean 95% of the calves, we will expect Bull A to wean 3040 more pounds of calf. At $2.25 per pound, that is $6840 more value over the life of the bull. Considering the return on investment the $2000 bull actually costs $4800 more to own than the $4000 bull when you consider the value of the calves. Actually consider bulls are only “rented.” For the initial investment cost of $4000 for a bull that is later sold for $2500 when he is marketed after just 4 years of service, the cost to breed each cow in the herd for the 4 years just considering the purchase price is only $9.38 per cow.

While making the decision to buy a bull, set the goals for the herd, identify bulls with the genetic potential to reach those goals, disregard any bull without known genetic information, then select a bull based on the breed, phenotype, or other criteria you require. It will truly be the most important investment you make for the cow herd.

#####

A guy spots a sign outside a house that reads “Talking Dog for Sale.”

Intrigued, he walks in. “So what have you done with your life?” he asks the dog.

“I’ve led a very full life,” says the dog. “I lived in the Alps rescuing avalanche victims. Then I served my country in Iraq. And now I spend my days reading to the residents of a retirement home.”

The guy is flabbergasted. He asks the dog’s owner, “Why on earth would you want to get rid of an incredible dog like that?”

The owner says, “Because he’s a liar! He never did any of that!”

OPEN LETTER TO PRODUCERS

In 2002, AGCO Corporation created the Challenger brand of farm equipment and set up many Caterpillar dealerships across North America. Tractor and Equipment in Great Falls, MT being one of them. From 2002 to 2014, Hoven Equipment and Tractor and Equipment sold the same equipment, aside from different color paint and decals.

The exception being AGCO allowed Tractor and Equipment to sell AGCO’s application equipment, track tractors and four-wheel drive tractors under the Challenger brand, while Hoven Equipment could only sell the Massey Ferguson and Gleaner brands, which did not offer a full line of equipment.

In 2012, the New Holland full line brand of farm equipment became available in Great Falls, and Hoven Equipment applied for the dealership, and was accepted in 2013. This allowed Hoven Equipment to compete in the grain markets in North Central Montana. In 2013, AGCO and their sales representative elected to stop seeing and supporting

Hoven Equipment. Because of this lack of support from AGCO and their sales representative, our relationship declined over the years. However, AGCO’s service department continues to provide strong support to Hoven Equipment and AGCO equipment owners.

Hoven Equipment will continue to provide parts and service for AGCO equipment through December 31st, 2023. What happens after December 2023 is yet to be determined. Hoven Equipment is willing and able to continue to support AGCO Equipment in the Great Falls and Lewistown trade area.

Hoven Equipment continues as a strong competitor in the farm equipment industry with the New Holland, MacDon, Versatile, Vermeer, Morris, Haybuster and Bobcat brands. We will continue to do everything we can to provide service to our customers and solve problems.

Sincerely, The Teammates of Hoven Equipment

Hoven

is sad to announce AGCO is terminating our 44-year relationship. Why is this happening?

USED TRACTORS

Massey Ferguson 1735 EHL tractor with backhoe. stk# 26242. (G)

Massey Ferguson GC1725TLB tractor. stk# 27315. (G)

AGCO 8610 tractor. stk# 30061. (G)

Case IH Puma 165 tractor. stk# 30255.

Kubota BX2380 compact tractor. stk# 30042. (G)

USED COMBINES

with 30-ft. header. stk# 9896. (G)

USED MISCELLANEOUS

USED ROUND BALERS

New Holland BR780 net/twine. stk# 27848. (L)

New Holland 688 net/twine. stk# 30181.

New Holland 660 net/twine. stk# 27027. (G)

Vermeer 605XL net/twine. stk#

USED SWATHERS

USED RAKE

USED HEADER

MacDon FD75D 45-ft. header. stk# 29023. (L)

Soil sensor yields beneficial information for farmers

Crop Science Society of America

If you’re a gardener, you know that planting seeds in the ground doesn’t always mean you’ll have a good yield at the end of a growing season. On a personal level, this can be disappointing. Farmers are in charge of growing dozens to thousands of acres of food. And, they face the same variability in the planting, growing, and harvesting processes as gardeners do.A tool placed into a corn field to measure soil hardness

Agronomists and soil scientists research best practices for farmers to help them make informed decisions on managing their fields and crops. Rintaro Kinoshita and a team of researchers determined that a tool, an “apparent electrical conductivity sensor (ECa),” can give important insights into farm field management.

Kinoshita is an assistant professor at Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Japan, but performed this research while working at Cornell University, United States.

The study was published in Agronomy Journal, a publication of the American Society of Agronomy.

“In larger farms there are factors that limit yield, or cause variations in yield within a field,” says Kinoshita. “Understanding these factors is crucial for optimizing resource investments and financial returns. It also helps avoid adverse environmental effects.”

Of course, the soil and its characteristics are some of the most important factors to farming. Spatial variation of crop yield is largely dependent on three factors: topography, soil, and pests/diseases. The soil factor is important and one that farmers can manage.

Farmers often rely on soil tests to understand the properties – but these take time and are expensive. Kinoshita and the team used sensor-based technologies that can collect various crop and soil information, without digging up the soils. These sensors are portable with the help of farm equipment like tractors, and provide critical information. In order to calibrate the information, they compared their sensor data with that from soil samples.

Although the research was done while Kinoshita was working at Cornell University, the study was conducted in Maryland and Delaware, in the Coastal Plain and Piedmont. The team studied 26 cornfields in two contrasting geographical and topical areas.

The apparent electrical conductivity sensor (ECa) was the most successful in estimating soil properties compared to the soil samples taken. These sensors were able to predict soil texture – especially at different depths, and available water content. Since water is the only conducting phase, measurements of soil properties that affect water availability can be predicted using ECa. The measurements related to soil moisture and corn yield, which is valuable information for farmers.

The team also tested other technologies, but the findings were not as conclusive as the apparent electrical conductivity sensor. An advantage to collecting sensor measurements is that it is timely, usually taking 1-2 hours per fifty acres. Soil core testing, on the other hand, can take weeks to sometimes months depending on the soil properties.

“I chose to use the ECa sensor because it can measure soil properties in deeper layers (subsoils), where it is usually ignored for soil management but a very important reservoir of plant available water, “says Kinoshita. “This can be critical under variable weather conditions, especially drought, to stabilize crop yield and maintain high yield.”

Kinoshita explains it is important to start paying more attention to deeper soils to better manage crops, and for that the ECa sensor can be very helpful in revealing soil conditions that would otherwise be very difficult to see.

This research was supported by Willard Agri-Service of Frederick, Inc., with support from the Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program.

In addition, Obihiro University is collaborating on a virtual agronomy exchange program with the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Both the Obihiro area of Japan and Wisconsin in the United States grow many of the same crops: potatoes, soybeans, and farm dairy products. They face some of the same challenges like soil conservation. The program focuses on food systems and soil science, where students learn about the characteristics of the soil for optimizing soil conservation and management by both researchers and local farmers.

A minus sign

In 1962 an Atlas-Agena rocket that was carrying the Mariner 1 satellite into space was launched from Cape Canaveral. Unfortunately, the rocket went off course and ground controllers had to push the self-destruct button. The whole thing exploded. Investigators found that someone had left a minus sign out of the computer program. Cost to the U.S. taxpayers: $18.5 million.

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How’d they get airmail? From 1939-42, there was an underwater post office in the Bahamas.

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A red blood cell is about 8 microns wide–less than half the width of a human hair.

BUCKLEY AUCTIONS AND APPRAISERS

Clara Blonde and Brinlee Flesch were all smiles for potential buyers at the Marias Fair livestock sale as they handed out sale programs and welcomed folks to the sale. Clara and Brinlee both had a very successful Marias Fair on the swine side with Clara having the Grand Champion Breeding Swine and Brinlee being named Most Promising 1st year swine member. Photo by Kari Lewis.

Ninety-nine percent of failures come from people who make excuses. #####

It needs to be said and heard: It’s OK to be who you are.

#####

Happiness is where we find it, but very rarely where we seek it.

Purchased hay: The extra costs

By Ben Beckman, Nebraska Extension Educator

Winter is finally here and for some, dry weather has resulted in a lower than desired hay inventory. While we can reduce demand by adjusting rations or selling animals, purchasing hay may be the best option to fill in a feed gap.

Most of the time, purchased hay is hauled in and fed without issue. It’s a regular occurrence for many operations and should always be an option for consideration. While the sticker cost is typically the first factor considered why buying hay, there are additional costs that purchased hay can bring to an operation.

1) Get a Hay Test

Not all hay is created equal. While a seller may list hay quality in their advertisement, without a test to back it up, that number is just a guess. Unfortunately, more often than we’d like, that guess may be pretty far from truth. Many factors go into hay quality; plant maturity, species present, fertilization, moisture during growing, and how the hay was cured and put up are just a few. Even if our guess is close, a few percentage points either way on energy or protein content can mean the difference between healthy cows come calving and a successful breed back or animals in low body condition and open animals next year.

Not only does a hay test provide a better understanding of what quality of product you are purchasing, it can help with finding the best deal when comparing options. Using a tool like the UNL Feed Cost Cow-Q-Lator can factor in initial feed quality, transportation, storage, and feeding factors to come up with a cost per pound of energy or protein that can easily be compared with other hay sources or even alternative feed options.

2) Don’t Spread Invasive Species

Even if the hay looks fine, unwanted hitchhikers may be lurking inside. Hard to control weeds like sericea lespedeza and old-world bluestems from Kansas, absinthe wormwood from North and South Dakota, or even leafy spurge or Canada thistle from a local hay source can suddenly turn a clean pasture into a battle ground with noxious weeds.

Uninvited guests don’t have to be plants either. Alfalfa weevils can be shipped in from just about anywhere or fire ants from Texas or Oklahoma. Fire ants won’t survive a typically harsh Nebraska winter, but if it’s mild and the hay is well-sheltered, they could be a problem for a season or two.

How do we mitigate these risks? Begin by asking questions. Find out what pests are a problem in the area your hay is coming from. Check references. Reserve the right to refuse the hay after it arrives, and you’ve check it out thoroughly. Then, when you feed the hay, do it only in a small area. That way, if a problem does develop, you can keep it isolated and, hopefully, controllable.

3) Is The Hay Toxic?

Outside of prussic acid, most toxic compounds become locked in when forage is harvested for hay. Drought stress can lead to high levels of nitrates. Small grains and annual forage grasses along with some weedy species like pigweed are of especially high concern. If you have concerns, a forage nitrate test can quickly tell if you have a problem or not.

Weedy hay may contain plants that are toxic to livestock. Because hay is a dried form of the plan an often limit fed or ground up, animals can end up consuming more of these plants than normal as their ability to be selective is decreased. Keep an eye out for anything unusual in the bale and try to identify unknown plants if possible. This may need to be done on a bale-by-bale basis, as some species are patchy in growth and may not show up uniformly across a field.

Finally, hay that was put up in a rush may not have been dried and cured properly. Wet hay often leads to mold growth. Besides lowering the quality of feed, mold can cause raspatory issues with cattle breathing in the “dust” created by spores and in some cases mycotoxin development. While not every mycotoxin is the same, consumption can lead to lowered gain and in extreme cases aborted calves and death.

4) Plan Ahead

Most producers have a good handle on how much hay they need to make it through the winter months and have hopefully secured what is needed already. Maybe this planning already takes into consideration a worst-case winter scenario already, but if not, it’s worth considering. What if the snow starts to fly and stockpiled pasture or crop residues are no longer accessible? Do we have enough hay on hand if we start feeding early? What about if we have a cold dry spring and a late green up?

Scenarios

don’t have to directly address forage quantity

Purchased hay: The extra costs

either. Does the hay on hand have high enough quality to cover animal demands through calving and into peak lactation? What if an extended cold snap occurs and animal energy demands increase dramatically? Do we need to investigate some supplemental feed options? We can’t prepare for every “what-if” that may come our way, but even by taking some time to think through possible situations we can be better prepared to act when needed.

No more hay is going to be produced this growing season, so what is available is all we have to work with. With high demand and prices, there are always people out to take advantage of the situation. If a deal seems too good to be true, it often is. Hay posted for sale is not always guaranteed and scams are unfortunately all to common. Purchase hay through a verified or trusted source and paying only after viewing the hay personally can help prevent a bad

transaction.

Feeding animals through the winter is not going to be cheap or easy this year. If you do need to purchase hay to fill a forage gap, there are some risks that need to be considered. Get a hay test, watch out for invasive hitchhikers, mitigate the risk of toxins, take your planning above and beyond and be careful if a deal seems too good to be true. By being prepared, purchased hay doesn’t have to come with an additional cost.

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A small population of Mammoths survived on the Wrangel Island until 1650 BC, about 900 years after the construction of The Great Pyramid of Giza was completed.

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As of 2019, the site MySpace still gets 8 million visitors per month!

1989 Kenworth 16-ton SideShooter tender, 350 Cummins diesel, 10 speed, tag axle, 16-ton Willmar bed $29,500

1998 Willmar 24-ton SideShooter tender, spread axle trailer, fenders, electric roll tarp $32,500

1969 Lubbock

2008 Sterling fuel truck, 3600 gallon, 5 compartment, automatic, Cummins, 218,000 miles $38,500

MFB recognizes Leopold Award Winner

Montana Farm Bureau recognized Barney Creek Livestock as the 2022 recipient of the Montana Leopold Conservation Award® during its 103rd Annual Convention November 14-17 in Missoula.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the prestigious award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land.

As owners of Barney Creek Livestock, Pete and Meagan Lannan are cattle ranchers who are showing others how conservation practices can heal landscapes. The Lannans are innovative ranchers who found a way to raise beef cattle amid exorbitant land values in Montana’s Paradise Valley. As owners of Barney Creek Livestock, they became land managers who show others how conservation can heal landscapes.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s Environmental Quality Incentives Program helped with that conversion. With its financial and technical assistance, the Lannans mapped out grazing plans and upgraded their fencing and water infrastructure. Water and energy efficiencies were gained when a flood irrigation system was replaced with a pipeline delivering water to livestock tanks and a sprinkler irrigation system.

“The Montana Farm Bureau is thrilled to recognize the Lannan family for their dedication to their livestock, land and the sustainability of their ranch and the fact they are willing to share their land ethic with others,” said MFBF Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck. “The fact that this is the fourth year that Montana Farm Bureau members have won this award shows that our members take land stewardship seriously.”

The Lannans received $10,000 and a crystal award for being selected. Last year’s recipient was Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle and Guest Ranch, owned by the Flynn family of Townsend in Broadwater County. The Frenches received the award in 2021 and Miltons in 2020.

Sand County Foundation and American Farmland Trust present the award in Montana with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Rangeland Resources Committee.

Net wrap and twine

By Brad Schick

Net wrap and twine are issues every livestock producer must address at least some point in the year. Cattle that consume too much can develop health problems.

With producers feeding more hay this year than usual, there is even more labor feeding and potential concerns about net wrap. If animals do eat the wrap, it can accumulate in the rumen causing obstructions.

North Dakota State University performed research showing that net wrap and even biodegradable twine were not digested by the microbes in the rumen. Steers fed ground hay without the net wrap removed before grinding were monitored in the study. A full two weeks before steers were harvested, they were given feed with all the net wrap removed; and the net wrap fed earlier was still present throughout the rumen at harvest.

What does this mean for our daily operations? Steers or heifers going to harvest are less of a concern due to their lack of time fed the net wrap. Brood cows, however, are more of a concern if we want cows on the operation healthy for years. Although the health concern is very low, grinding net wrapped hay or removing the net wrap if rolled out or busted, is recommended to reduce the chance of our cows having any issues.

A little time can eliminate a big headache and each operation needs to evaluate the risks associated with the decision to remove net wrap and twine.

CATERPILLAR FOR SALE

Phone (406) 660-3625

low boy service

40-ton RGN trailer for hire to transport combines, tractors, sprayers, floaters, construction equipment, etc. Within Montana & surrounding states. We also have 48-ft. step deck trailers available. Insured & experienced.

Call Roger at Roger Rader Inc., Sun River, MT 406-264-5475 or 406-799-5162 (Roger’s Cell) (MC# 170263 US DOT# 128029)

FIR FIREWOOD FOR SALE

Black Sea grain corridor, weather and harvest pressure wheat prices

By USW Market Analyst Michael Anderson

Russia’s unprovoked invasions of Ukraine sent already bullish wheat futures prices soaring earlier this year.

However, the first grain vessel to leave Ukraine since Russia’s February invasion set sail on Monday, August 1. The ship, carrying 27,000 metric tons (MT) of corn bound for Lebanon, was able to sail nine days after Ukraine and Russia agreed to a deal brokered by the United Nations (U.N.) and Turkey.

The news of the Ukrainian grain cargo’s safe arrival in Turkey sent Chicago Board of Trade wheat futures down more than 3% on August 2. Harvest across the northern hemisphere is another factor helping global wheat prices soften. However, the weather will play a crucial role in the weeks ahead. Hot weather could slash yields as it did in India this year. Too much rain could create quality issues.

driest month since 1961. Agritel, a French consultancy, cut its forecast for French wheat. German farm group DBV, increased Germany’s 2022 winter wheat harvest by 1% to 21.38 MMT.

While the hot weather in some E.U. countries is concerning, a drought in Romania is affecting the water levels on the Danube River. The river is a major artery for transporting Romanian and, increasingly, Ukrainian grains to E.U. countries and to the Black Sea. The lower water levels mean that ships must sail at reduced tonnage. The Rhine River in Germany and Po River in Italy are also low meaning that barges carrying grain are either unable to sail or must sail with reduced cargos.

Australia

Semi-load(s)

miles.

2009 Summers Ultimate pull-type sprayer ($15,000) 110-ft. booms, 5 section control, induction cone mounted on sprayer, Raven 450 controller. Used for all of 2022 farm season.

2014 Haybuster 2100 - 3-point mounted ($9000) Good running. Great for getting in and out of tight haystacks.

Contact Chase (406) 899-6055 or Rhett (406) 590-6054

In its July World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates (WASDE) report, the USDA forecast that global wheat production would total 771.6 million metric tons (MMT), falling 1.7 MMT from USDA’s June estimate and 7.3 MMT less than in 2021/22. Global consumption is forecast at 784.2 MMT, outpacing production by 12.6 MMT.

The tighter balance sheet for worldwide wheat year-over-year is partly due to the Black Sea conflict, but other key exporting regions are worth a look.

United States

The most recent USDA Crop Progress Report, published August 1, reported that 82% of the winter wheat crop was harvested. USDA expects 2022/23 hard red winter (HRW) production to reach 15.9 MMT, falling 6.0 MMT from last season. Soft red winter (SRW) production is estimated at 10.2 MMT, higher than last season, and winter soft white (SW) production at 7.8 MMT, 1.3 MMT more than 2021/22. Many state wheat commissions have reported very limited disease pressure because of dry conditions during the growing season.

In the same report, the USDA rated U.S. spring wheat at 70% good or excellent. Last week the annual hard red spring (HRS) tour estimated that HRS yield would reach 49.1 bushels per acre (bpa) (3.3 MT/ha), the highest since 2015 and above the 5-year average of 39.4 bpa (2.6 MT/ha). In a weekly update, the North Dakota Wheat Commission said spring wheat remains behind in its maturation but added that recent warmer temperatures are helping the crop develop.

In addition, North Dakota Wheat Commission Policy and Marketing Director Jim Peterson reviewed U.S. and global durum supply and demand in a webinar sponsored by the Northern Crops Institute (NCI) August 3.

Canada Canada is rebounding from a drought that slashed spring wheat and durum production there in 2021/22. The USDA raised the Canadian wheat forecast by 57% compared to last year. An analyst with MarketsFarm warned that the USDA is too optimistic and does not take into account the late plantings in the eastern Prairies and the lingering drought in western Canada. The USDA puts 2022/23 exports at 25.0 MMT.

European Union

The European Union (E.U.) has recently been hit with a severe heat wave. The E.U.’s crop monitoring service, MARS, cut its yield forecast to 5.74 MT/ha. France, the largest wheat-producing country in the E.U. experienced its driest July on record and the

Production in Australia is expected to fall 6.3 MMT to 30.0 MMT this season following the bumper crop harvested in 2021/22. Exports are expected to fall 3.5 MMT to 24 MMT, but this is still 45% above the 5-year average. Even with the surplus of exportable wheat, port capacity in Australia is tight, making it hard for exporters to manage increased demand.

Argentina

The USDA Foreign Agricultural Service attaché, on July 25, lowered the 2022/23 export forecast to 12.35 MMT or 1.15 MMT less than the July WASDE forecast. The wheat-growing region is experiencing prolonged dry weather due to a protracted La Niña weather event making it difficult for farmers to plant their wheat crops.

Russia

Russia is expected to harvest a record crop this season. SovEcon, a Russian market analyst, put total wheat production at 90.9 MMT. The USDA estimates a more modest 81.5 MMT, but even that is 8% higher than in 2021/22 if realized. Recent heavy rain has affected the quality of the wheat being harvested reported Reuters. AgriCensus said that the amount of wheat designated as feed grain would be higher.

Ukraine

Ukraine is expected to harvest 19.5 MMT of wheat in 2022/23 according to USDA, falling 41% behind its 2021/22 production level. Exports are expected to fall to 10.0 MMT, dropping nearly 9.0 MMT year-overyear. Exports are down because of Russia’s Black Sea blockade; however, grain exports through the Black Sea resumed this week. Unfortunately, the ultimate outcome of this deal remains unknown.

Kazakhstan

The Kazak minister of agriculture said that wheat production in the Central Asian country would be 15% to 20% higher this year compared to last. The minister forecasts up to 13.5 MMT total wheat production this season. The Kazakh Grain Union is even more optimistic, indicating 16.0 MMT of wheat production and 9.0 MMT of grain available for export.

Nontraditional Wheat Exporters

Brazil is expected to harvest a record wheat crop in 2022. According to Conab, the food supply and statistics agency, wheat farmers in Brazil planted the largest area in 32 years, around 2.9 million hectares (7.16 million acres), and will harvest a record 9.0 MMT of wheat if the weather holds up. Conab said that Brazilian farmers boosted their plantings due to higher prices caused by supply disruptions.

India boasted plans to export as much as 10.0 MMT of wheat this season. However, hot weather weeks before harvest cut yields.

Giving Grandma The Slip

On the way into my home town I drove past the little church, now run down with age I thought of how I was scared, for any reason To go down the isle and on the stage

Turning and looking over the people Seeing my Grandma, in her coat that I don’t think ever needed pressed Beside her, was Grandpa, looking like he was forced to be here Along with some of the rest

After church, it was always to Grandma’s With fixings that everyone had brought Memories of those days when I pass the old church Seemed to come back a lot

I’ve left that straight and narrow path Grandma wanted When out of town, I took a trip I also think of Grandpa wishing he could go with me So he could, for the night, give Grandma the slip

By ROBERT RIDGWAY (Vaughn, Montana)

WANTED

Smaller, 1950s two track Tucker SnoCat. Restoration for myself, in any conditionor parts.

Send pictures to starrsmtnbarn@q.com

Call 1-(406) 258-5345

JIM NIELSEN TRUCK & PARTS, INC.

P.O. Box 3072

• 4075 Wynne Avenue • Butte, Montana 59702 • (406) 494-3394

HERE IS A LIST OF NON OPERATIONAL

COMPONENT TRUCKS (Selling As-Is)

2002 Freightliner FL106 (Critelli). $750

(2) 2000 International 4700 trucks. Each. $750

1998 Kenworth T2000 bad engine. $1500

1997 Kenworth T800 good M11 Cummins. $2000

1995 International 9200 16-ft. aluminum dump box. $3500

(3) Mid 90, GMC Top Kick diesel trucks. Each. $1500

1991 GMC Top Kick tandem diesel chassis (bad injector). $1750

1990 Ford L9000 tandem chassis (bad motor). $1500

1990 Ford L8000 SA diesel chassis. $750

1989 International 4700 bad engine U-Haul. $500

1986 GMC 7000 SA dump, bad 8.2 Detroit. $1000

1985 Ford L8000 SA tractor, good 3208 T. $1500

• Mobile (406) 565-7235

1997 Kenworth T800 day cab tractor, 14,000 miles on complete out of frame overhaul, C12 Cat, 430 HP, 13 spd transmission, 404 rear ends, East aluminum closet cab guard, Herd front bumper, all new rubber on aluminum. Exceptionally clean.

(12) School Bus Bodies For Storage

Good glass, no seats, shelves interior....CHEAP

country instead banned

exports, thereby adding even more uncertainty and disruption to the global wheat market. Chicago Board of Trade (CBOT) wheat futures have averaged $9.61 since January. On Tuesday, August 2, the September contract was trading at $7.74. This is good news for wheat buyers. Allowing Ukrainian wheat back into the market via the “grain corridor” is a positive move for the global price of wheat. The weather in key growing regions, both during harvest and during fall planting, will be the thing to keep an eye on.

1994 Ford L9000 tandem, good L10 Cummins (electric fire). $2000

1994 International 4700 bad engine. $750

(2) 1992 GMC Top Kick Pepsi trucks. Each. $750

1991 GMC Top Kick wrecked (yellow). $500

1985 GMC 7000 fuel chassis.$1250

1980 Ford L9000 tandem, good 855 Cummins (rolled). $1500

1980 Chevrolet C70 factory 471 T engine. $1250

1979 GMC 7000 bad brakes. $1000

1979 International S1600 chassis. $750

1977 Utility 46-ft, tri-axle straight flatbed, 80% 11-24.5 rubber on steel budds, new brakes, 20 winches & straps

Inventory Available