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MU Wurdack Center Field Day, Oct. 6, Focuses on Drought

The annual Wurdack Extension and Education Center Producer Field Day on Oct. 6 will focus on alternative forages for drought recovery.

“Given the drought this year, forage resilience is top of mind for many producers,” says University of Missouri Extension agronomist Gatlin Bunton, who serves as director of the center.

The free event begins at 9:30 a.m. and ends with a noon lunch. MU Extension specialists will discuss native warm-season grasses, annual forages, cattle management during low forage production, the economics of drought management and alternative winter feeding strategies, including standing grain sorghum.

MU Extension specialist Harley Naumann will tell how to use winter annual forages in cool-season pastures. Bunton will tell how to incorporate native warm-season grasses into pastures. Rusty Lee will give insights on reasons to winter graze grain sorghum.

Ag business specialist Rachel Hopkins and livestock specialist Eric Meusch will discuss the economics of keeping cattle through drought and how to manage herds through forage shortages.

John Travlos will give an overview of using information from MU’s weather stations across the state. Feral hog outreach educator Kevin Crider will tell how MU Extension and partners are working to eliminate feral hog populations in southern Missouri.

First Community National Bank of Steelville and Missouri Farm Bureau help to sponsor the event.

The MU Wurdack Extension and Education Center is at 164 Bales Road, Cook Station. The event is free but registration is required. For registration and directions, go to https://extension.missouri.edu/events/wurdack-producer-field-day.

Source : missouri.edu

Trending Video

Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

Video: Spider Mite Control with Predatory Mites (Neoseiulus californicus)

The predatory mite Neoseiulus californicus is an effective natural enemy of various species of spider mites, including the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae). As a key player in biological pest control, this predator helps growers protect their crops sustainably.

How does Neoseiulus californicus work?

•Specializes in targeting the larval and nymphal stages of spider mites.

•Also consumes spider mite eggs, ensuring population control.

•Detects prey through webbing and leaf damage rather than sight.

•Feeds by sucking out the contents of its prey.

Why use Neoseiulus californicus for spider mite control?

•Highly adaptable to different environments, including warm and dry conditions.

•Works as both a preventive and curative solution for spider mite infestations.

•Complements other predatory mites, such as Phytoseiulus persimilis, for integrated pest management (IPM).

•A natural, sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides.