Tag: K-State Research and Extension

K-State experts highlight the significance of beef imports in meeting U.S. consumer demand for ground beef. They explain that imported lean beef complements domestic production, especially for ground products. This balance of imports and exports allows the beef industry to optimize animal value and cater to varying consumer preferences, ensuring consistent supply.

K-State economist Gregg Ibendahl warns that rising oil prices, potentially reaching $90 per barrel, threaten farm profitability by increasing production costs. Higher diesel and fertilizer prices could add significant expenses for farmers, with fertilizer costs expected to rise by about 10%. Producers should closely monitor these market trends for potential impacts.

K-State expert Kelsey Bentley highlights increasing parasite risks in sheep and goats as spring arrives. Common threats include gastrointestinal worms and coccidia, particularly affecting young animals. Bentley emphasizes proactive management through pasture rotation, targeted deworming, and veterinary collaboration to mitigate health issues and production losses. Proper nutrition and hygiene are crucial for prevention.

Erin Martinez, a Kansas State University aging specialist, emphasizes the importance of routine checkups for farmers and ranchers. She notes that regular medical exams can help detect health issues early and maintain long-term wellness, allowing producers to remain active in their demanding work. Prioritizing personal health ultimately supports the entire farm operation.

The Johnson Cancer Research Center at Kansas State University is addressing rising cancer rates in Russell, Ellsworth, and Lincoln counties through community-driven research. They tested groundwater and radon levels, leading to significant mitigation efforts. The project emphasizes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and health improvement, ensuring residents' concerns are prioritized in ongoing health initiatives.

Kansas State University beef specialist Justin Waggoner emphasizes the importance of choosing the right minerals for cow herds as grazing seasons approach. He suggests using mineral tags to assess needs, particularly for phosphorus, while cautioning against over-supplementation and highlighting variability in intake among cattle. Producers are encouraged to monitor consumption levels accordingly.

K-State Extension weed specialist Dallas Peterson discusses research on dicamba drift's impact on non-dicamba-resistant soybeans. The study applied dicamba at various rates during critical growth stages, revealing that timing and exposure significantly affect yield loss, particularly during reproduction stages. Frequent exposure further intensifies damage.

Kansas State University cow-calf specialist Jason Warner emphasizes the importance of tracking key metrics as cattle producers conclude the fall calving season. He highlights conception, calving, and weaning percentages as crucial indicators for managing herd health, productivity, and efficiency, ultimately guiding better decision-making for the upcoming season.

K-State beef cattle experts highlight strategies for housing bulls to minimize fighting. Key recommendations include ample space, water, and feed alongside suitable pen design. Separating bulls by age can reduce conflicts, and while no method completely prevents fighting, thoughtful planning can enhance safety and reduce aggression among bulls.

The winter holiday season, while festive, can induce significant mental and financial stress. Expert Elizabeth Kiss emphasizes prioritizing meaningful family connections while managing holiday budgets. She recommends planning meals, activities, and gift purchases carefully to prevent overspending and encourages discussions to find enjoyment without pressure, ultimately advocating for a more relaxed holiday experience.

Kansas State University researchers are developing a $6 million project to recycle livestock wastewater, aiding the Ogallala Aquifer's conservation and enhancing sustainability in the High Plains. Led by Prathap Parameswaran, the initiative focuses on creating economic incentives for producers to adopt this technology, balancing water access, efficiency, and profitability.

The Kansas Forest Service confirmed the emerald ash borer's presence in Marshall County, marking 19 Kansas counties affected since 2012. This invasive beetle threatens ash trees, with over 70 million already destroyed. Landowners are encouraged to identify symptoms and consider replacement plans for declining ash trees while avoiding transporting firewood from infested areas.