http://www.noble.org/Ag/news_views/index.htm Monthly Agricultural Information from the Noble Foundation. 2006-2009 The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, Inc. Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:27:00 GMT Mon, 01 Jun 2009 18:27:00 GMT en-us http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/B-426AAe-7Q/ There has been substantial discussion and debate among lawmakers about the implementation of a cap-and-trade policy as a means to mitigate the level of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT Dustin Oswald and Jon Biermacher http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/Cap-and-Trade/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sHWKTO6cwQ8/ Bluegill are an important species when it comes to fisheries management. Bluegill provide an excellent forage for bass due to their ability to reproduce at incredible rates. During one summer, a female bluegill can spawn three times releasing 2,300 to 81,100 eggs per spawn. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT Steven Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Bluegill/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/yZwg2hjLbfk/ Most of the weeds that are present in your pastures as we approach summer will probably be perennials plus some annuals that you missed with your initial chemical application (if there was one). The transition from spring to summer is the right time of year for brush control, as long as the weather is good. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/SummerWeedControl/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/WIUx_flViwE/ Who owns the water? In both Oklahoma and Texas, surface water (streams, creeks and rivers) is the property of the state. The use of this water requires a water permit. With a permit, water can be used for irrigation on a use-it or lose-it rule. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/WaterPermitBasics/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/b6TKf77Y5Wc/ The agricultural community can address climate change by reducing its emissions and adopting management practices that enhance storage of carbon in soil. The objective of this article is to describe the effects of grazing land management on soil carbon storage. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/GrazingLands/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/tD8mLekohUI/ To determine if you are working your pastures hard or smart, consider your pasture and grazing plan. What was your plan this spring? 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/WorkingPastures/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/QhQbum3hdaw/ Heat stress can greatly impact cattle producers through decreased milk production and subsequent calf growth, decreased reproductive performance in cows and bulls, and decreased stocker and feeder performance. It has been estimated that heat-related events in the Midwest have cost the cattle industry over $75 million in the past 10 years. 2009-06-01 18:27:00 GMT Deke Alkire http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/MonitorHeatStress/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/0ng75iCZMqo/
When trying to manage an impoundment to be a productive sport fishery, water quality is one of the most important considerations. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Will Moseley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/LetsClearTheWater/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/5D4cik3tjjM/ While we get enamored with the future and all the things we want to accomplish, we first must remember what our founder, Lloyd Noble, envisioned for the Foundation. We must also know where we have been and what we have achieved. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Billy Cook http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/MovingForward/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pKlhz02KUEU/ There are many thoughts regarding how much nitrogen is lost from applying urea on pastures and hay fields. If applied incorrectly, up to 40 percent of the nitrogen applied as urea can be vaporized and lost as a gas. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Eddie Funderburg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/NitrogenLosses/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/dp0phenGQFs/
An increasing number of beef cattle producers have expressed an interest in understanding more about the emerging market surrounding naturally produced beef. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Job Springer, Jon Biermacher, Deke Alkire and Dan Childs http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/NaturalBeef/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/xfBPqBfMgyg/ The IBeef program is a joint effort between the Noble Foundation consultation program and participating cooperators. It endeavors to be a producer-led program with the Noble Foundation serving as consultants to the program. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Julie Barrick http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/IntegrityBeef/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sBz6C5-Nr2A/ One of the diseases you don't want your bull to get, let alone to bring home to your cows, is trichomoniasis. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/Trichomoniasis/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/jrvQyLe187Q/ Precipitation drives pasture improvement, so if you improve the condition of your pastures and rangelands when it does rain, it will help you get through those times when it doesn't. One method of pasture improvement is to provide growing season rest. 2009-05-01 06:38:43 GMT Chan Glidewell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/GivePasturesRest/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/xlqkJo-oTho/ Reflecting on changes observed during more than 42 years of employment at the Noble Foundation can be overwhelming. By the time you read this, I will be enjoying retirement. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT Wadell Altom http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/Past42Years/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/rw8fznkZ5-I/
With the tight profit margins agricultural producers face, the need to control input costs is greater than ever. As input costs rise, we naturally try to reduce these costs whenever we can. One cost-cutting approach producers often ask about is reducing herbicide rates, sometimes to below the minimum listed on the label. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/LowRateHerbicide/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Mq2szriVuok/ Planning and preparation for prescribed burns should start several months or even a year prior to a burn. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BurnsCommonProblems/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/C1vfO872bwk/
A research study in the February 2009 issue of American Journal of Agricultural Economics found that increasing the number of animal units by 100,000 in any county results in a 7.4 percent increase in infant mortality. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT Jon Biermacher and John Blanton Jr. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/HealthcareStudy/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/WNsqj4D0sPs/ Getting more out of less is an attractive concept in tough economic times. In 2008, average cow costs ran around $534 per head including depreciation - averages can be deceiving. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT James Rogers http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/GetMorefromLess/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/_4C3nV8S9v4/ A trait exhibited by a cow herd or individuals within a herd that saves time and money is referred to as a "convenience trait." Examples are polledness, parasite resistance, heat tolerance and calving ease. 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/SimmerDown/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LNRFXhz34Mc/
During a recent phone conversation with one of our more senior cooperators, I asked, "Have you lived through any more economically challenging times than now?" He answered, "No, I think these are the most challenging times I have ever experienced." 2009-04-01 07:14:22 GMT Dan Childs http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ToughTimes/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/C3geuc70Edk/ What does it take to determine if a ranch or farm is making money? Each farm or ranch has its own set of specific circumstances and reasons for being in the business. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Steve Swigert http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/AreYouMakingMoney/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PrhjNQYukD4/ One choice facing any grower using a portable hoop house structure is deciding on the type of endwall to install. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/EndwallDesign/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LqbfjPysNsc/ On some ranches, hay feeding is caused by the calving season, regardless of the stocking rate. This is because cows in late gestation and early lactation have nutrient requirements that often dramatically exceed the nutrient content of available forage. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Ryan Reuter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CalvingSeasons/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/hsfMc2iXo7s/ It is well understood that marketing a uniform group of steers or heifers that have a well-characterized health management history has the potential to increase the animals' value and producer profitability. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Jon Biermacher, John Blanton Jr., Ryan Reuter and Job Springer http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ValueAddedCattle/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/npEK_2hXit4/ In the summer of 2008, the Noble Foundation conducted replicated small plot (5'x 20') variety trials of forage sorghums, sorghum sudans, sudan grasses and pearl millets. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Jim Johnson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/AnnualVarietyTrials/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/a4zkpb2mV-0/ The plants that surround us are often overlooked in the day-to-day routines of many. In fact, most people have no idea of the types of plants that exist in the field. 2009-03-01 18:01:42 GMT Chuck Coffey and Russell Stevens http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/WoodiesBook/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/X3NVuDZWuOM/ Three major inputs have a direct impact on the bottom line of an agricultural operation: feed, fertilizer and fuel. All three of these inputs experienced a decrease in price in late 2008 and early 2009, but the drastic decrease in the price of fuel will be the focus of this article. 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Dustin Oswald http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ManagingFuelPrices/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Sl-sgO81ApA/ If we look back to this time a year ago, who would have guessed all the changes and happenings of 2008? So, with all our knowledge and past experiences, what do we see for 2009? 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Shan Ingram http://www.noble.org/Ag/Events/2009/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/3PSC8KLuUy4/ It is February and many of us are anxiously waiting for spring, especially if we've been feeding hay for awhile. 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/MoreGreen/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-xZTioTKW_k/ Most cattlemen have felt the impact of rising input costs over recent years. Although prices moderated or fell at the end of 2008, perhaps one of the most noticeable increases last year was feed prices. 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Deke Alkire http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/RFI/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/MwtSfP1X4G0/ Plant roots absorb nitrogen from the soil, much of it in the form of nitrate, and convert it into proteins in the leaves for plant growth. 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Jagadeesh Mosali http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/AvoidNitratePoisoning/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/l2iAk_vXxyQ/ As we head towards spring, we are thinking about bulls. Purchasing a bull for your herd is just like hiring a new employee. Ever wondered about the bull you've hired? 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/DatingCows/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/arYWjtIE_FE/ Eastern Red-cedar trees have become more abundant in many fencerows and pastures. This now very common tree was once limited to rocky bluffs, deep canyons and other areas where fire did not historically occur. 2009-02-01 18:02:21 GMT Steven Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/RedCedar/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/T64LlsygnuU/ The stock market is not the only investment that has fallen in value during 2008 - the agricultural commodities markets have, too. Many agricultural producers across the United States are feeling the pinch from falling commodity prices. Because of the current downturn in these markets, it has become more important than ever for agricultural producers to manage their price risks. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Job Springer http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/TurbulentTimes/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/AuJuwQ4DAXM/ How about this for a New Year's resolution? Feed less hay next winter. There is nothing you can do about your forage situation for the remainder of this winter, aside from selling cattle or buying more hay. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Chan Glidewell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/FeedingHay/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pM1WjOHFlA8/ When planting pecan orchards, producers have two options for orchard establishment: container trees or bareroot trees. A common trend is the use of bareroot trees when developing orchards. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/BarerootPlanting/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ZILn6jZV2Fo/ About the end of every year, beef producers have sold the last calf crop and have a few weeks or months of relative calm before calving season starts. It is easy to become complacent about the cow herd and the replacement heifers, but if you don't take care of them now, they will not be able to take care of you in the future. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/TakeCareofHeifers/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/MWxVjHPc_dE/ Livestock and forage production are the largest contributors to agricultural income in the southern Great Plains. Small grains are an integral part of forage production in our region. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Malay Saha, Jerry Baker and Joe Bouton http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ImprovedSmallGrains/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Ajqii2iVhv4/ There has been increased interest in using poultry litter as fertilizer since fertilizer prices have skyrocketed. Poultry litter has long been used near the point of production, but high transportation costs for its low analysis has limited its use to within about 50 miles of poultry houses. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Eddie Funderburg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/PoultryLitter/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LmQAI4nR3CE/ Prescribed burning is one of the most valuable and cost effective tools available to manage our rangelands. Fire was an integral part of the ecosystem in southern Oklahoma and northern Texas throughout history, and our plant communities are adapted to fire. 2009-01-01 16:20:07 GMT Will Moseley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/SafelyBurn/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/5veVDwJMhv0/ With continued high costs, producers are asking if it is worth applying fertilizer. To borrow a line from our economist friends, "it depends." 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/FertilizerWorthCost/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/V4PyoKIMBLA/ Recently, our agricultural research team has been asked to provide talks during tours of our Oswalt Road Ranch. The Noble Foundation took full control of the property in 2000. The ranch is a valuable piece of property because of its unique natural beauty and potential to support livestock production and wildlife habitat. 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ShapingCrossTimbers/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/N102p8zIiGc/ Among deer hunters, this is a common question each year. Answers range from subtle facts to outright hyperbole. The commonality is that most deer hunters dream of taking a big buck home or at least seeing several bucks that they can pass and allow to grow larger. 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT Russell Stevens http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BucksThisFall/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/iIiofrdV3To/ To many producers, adding value means implementing management practices to maximize the price received for their calves on sale day. Some practices simply avoid discounts: dehorning; castration; breeding-in adequate frame and muscling; and managing away from extremes of body condition at sale time. 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CalfCrop/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4FPBtvaFbpE/ Autumn always reminds me of a particular childhood experience. It was a cold, crisp evening with a full moon - just enough light to see where you're going without a flashlight. The temperature was typical for nights during the fall and an indication that winter would soon follow. 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT Dooly Barlow http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/PearHarvest/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TZi1PyuOU30/ In tough economic times, many people become overwhelmed with things they have little control over such as high prices for feed, fuel and fertilizer. Although those things are important, perhaps it is time to focus your attention on things you can influence, such as operational efficiency and time management. 2008-12-01 08:37:00 GMT Jeri Donnell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/TimeMgt/?RSS http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/j5QNDRdw9Yg/index.html
People who study change and its causes have observed that change is often caused by a disturbance. Production agriculture is in a period of rapid change, with an economic environment that many have never experienced. If the agricultural industry is changing, what has been the disturbance? 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Dan Childs http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/CowCalf/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/6m0zhA_f2kk/index.html The term "rut" is often used to describe a boring, monotonous routine or a trench worn in the ground by a wheel. However, if you hang around much in white-tailed deer hunting circles, chances are that it means something completely different. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Ken Gee http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Rut/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/UeH-_DDx5kk/index.html
During my tenure with the Noble Foundation, I've had the opportunity to meet many innovative growers. I met one such person this past September on the farm of Tod and Jamie Hanley at a hoop house conference sponsored by the Kerr Center for Sustainable Agriculture. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/HoopHouseInvention/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PYfVI416Ass/index.html With value of gain approaching $100/cwt, average daily gain (ADG) of stocker calves on wheat pasture is a major concern this year. Gain is worth more than it has ever been, and producers should focus on making sure they manage for optimum ADG. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Ryan Reuter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/MaxProfit/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/zYNXJmtZ9zQ/index.html The Agricultural Division's research and resource management effort has grown considerably during the last few years. We have been asked on a number of occasions what has led to this growth and the program's early success. The single greatest resource that we have is our staff. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Billy Cook http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/PersonnelMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4J3g7OenqdY/index.html Not long ago, cheap commodity prices made it easy to look at hay as just filler. Nutritional deficiencies could be inexpensively corrected by feeding a supplement. Those days are gone, and quality hay has real value when compared to a commodity feed, but the value is in nutritional quality. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST James Rogers http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/TakeCareofHay/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/_eXrj-bXUyk/index.html Eragrostis tef is a warm-season annual grass from Ethiopia related to lovegrass. It has historically been grown in northern Africa for the seed, which is used to make bread. In the United States, teff is being promoted for forage and grain. 2008-11-01 07:19:00 CST Jim Johnson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/EragrostisTef/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/e6jnMXQVBFw/index.html With the much appreciated rains we received in August, available forage for grazing in the fall of 2008 is more abundant than we expected. And it couldn't have come at a better time. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Chuck Coffey http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/ExtraGrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/V2-06zksRvg/index.html High feed prices have many cattlemen concerned about what to feed this winter. Many think that hay is overpriced and all supplements are too expensive to feed. If this is your situation, now is the time to develop a least-cost winter feeding program. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Deke Alkire http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/GoodHay/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/XocHeJvyT9M/index.html Despite high grain prices, nitrogen management has become more challenging in small grain production because of continued increases in fertilizer prices. Both grain and forage yield potential are reduced without adequate fertilizer nitrogen. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Jagadeesh Mosali http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/sgNitrogen/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TMjT-2_WxZc/index.html Lately it seems that those of us in the soils and crops discipline have received more questions about land application of drilling mud or "mud farming." 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/DrillingMud/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1e9f5ub0aaY/index.html An understanding of duck food preferences is important when managing impoundments and wetlands to attract migratory ducks. Dabbling ducks and wood ducks are the focus of most duck hunters and duck habitat managers in southern Oklahoma and northern Texas. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Mike Porter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/DuckFoods/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/p05JLWl2QOU/index.html Between the autumns of 2006 and 2008, we have seen some real volatility in the cattle and grain markets. This condition has forced producers to reevaluate how they go about doing business. We have seen prices for corn double, and fertilizer and fuel triple. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Steve Swigert http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/CostProduction/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/mQNou0XW7Qs/index.html Microbes include fungi, bacteria and viruses. Farmers and ranchers often think of microbes as pests that are destructive to their crops or animals, but many microbes are beneficial. 2008-09-30 13:58:00 CST Marilyn J. Roossinck http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/Microbes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/rwNu1Dsiwsc/index.html One of the most important attributes of a good natural resource manager is that they never stop learning. Being involved in research and demonstration projects and attending educational events such as seminars, workshops and field days help keep us up-to-date on wildlife and fisheries management knowledge. 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Steven Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Fall08Meetings/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Fd2GcR0Y24o/index.html
Since it looks like wheat may be $8 per bushel at harvest in 2009, many producers are considering planting it strictly for grain. This can be profitable in some situations with good management, cost control and high yields. Unfortunately, costs have increased at a very fast pace and have diminished profit margins. 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Eddie Funderburg and Dustin Oswald http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ProfitInWheat/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/OjNiRnD41Vk/index.html "Just because something can be done does not necessarily mean it should be done" might apply if you are considering planting legumes this fall. September is the time to plant alfalfa and the time to plant clovers comes soon after. Are you really prepared or should you actually be preparing for next year? 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/LegumesSuccess/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/0d5zEfGzYTU/index.html
There is an old Chinese curse that says, "May you live in interesting times." The current era in the livestock industry is about as interesting as most of us can stand. I believe we are in the midst of a paradigm shift. The cattle industry of tomorrow will almost certainly look different than it has in recent years 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CattleEconomics/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PvEaEmdEKYg/index.html Several questions must be addressed before a landowner can make the decision of what enterprise will be most profitable and best suited for their land. Both feasibility and owner preference must be determined before a plan can start to take shape. 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/SmallAcreage/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/O9_WWMeXCFM/index.html When purchasing an agricultural production input or implementing some other management practice, how often do you ask about the probability of obtaining the expected response? 2008-08-29 20:38:18 GMT Wadell Altom http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/ObtainingResults/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8X4JwXvROJs/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews Our Ag News and Views RSS feed has a new location, please update your bookmarks to our new location at feeds.feedburner.com/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews 2008-08-19 07:34:00 GMT Shane Porter http://feeds.feedburner.com/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TWiBY6fXA6I/index.html
With winter small grain (wheat, rye, triticale) prices near or above all-time highs, producers need to consider adding these crops to their enterprise. Before they try to enter this market, they must be sure they can produce the crop and get it to a profitable market. 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/WinterSmallGrain/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/o_KTqOmLmQI/index.html Food plots and feeders are intensive management practices and, while widely used, they are not real habitat improvement practices in most cases. Usually, they only work as supplemental feeding to concentrate wildlife populations for improved harvest success or observation. 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Russell Stevens http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/HabitatMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ddQ2GPPy8gk/index.html
How much is a pecan tree worth? This question comes up often in Oklahoma and Texas, and can arise for several reasons. To help fill this information gap, several agricultural consultants at the Noble Foundation created a pecan valuation fact sheet entitled "Assessing the Value of Pecan Trees." 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Job Springer http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/PecanTreeValues/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/KtpNVOoddOE/index.html Beef Quality Assurance has been around for a long time, the program raises consumer confidence through offering proper management techniques and a commitment to quality within every segment of the beef industry. 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Shan Ingram http://www.noble.org/Ag/Events/BQA/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/7tXkMHXUytY/index.html Livestock producers in the southern Great Plains should not overlook johnsongrass in their pastures. For one thing, under certain conditions it can kill your cattle. Another reason not to overlook johnsongrass is that it is excellent forage - if you can get over the fact that it can kill your cattle! 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Chan Glidewell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Johnsongrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PuDYM62QI8s/index.html Historically, feeder calf prices decline as weight increases. That relationship of price to weight still exists, but it has narrowed considerably due to the high price of corn and feedlot cost of gain. Feedlots and the market are telling us to make calves heavier at home before selling them as feeder calves. 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CreepFeeding/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/qAeeBhcIi98/index.html I'm confident that any yard can look as good as a golf course if careful consideration is given to a few key turf management factors. With fall approaching, the following tips can help finish this growing season strongly and prepare you for next year. 2008-08-01 06:11:00 GMT Dooly Barlow http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/TurfMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/XIWFtbQwqHE/index.html Legumes can improve the production and nutritional value of pastures while reducing nitrogen fertilization requirements. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT John Guretzky and Twain Butler http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/CoolSeasonLegumes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/2HltNb25P8w/index.html
One of the strengths of the Noble Foundation's research programs is having access to the seven different research farms that make up over 12,000 acres. These farms represent very different resource bases that are used for many research projects and agricultural enterprises. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Billy Cook http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/PreparingFuture/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4UHDNwy-z84/index.html After much time and deliberation, H.R. 2419, the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008 became law on May 22, 2008. A congressional news release urged the government to "ensure that the entire farm bill is enacted into law swiftly" after clerical errors occurred involving the trade title. The 5-year bill totaling approximately $300 billion is set to expire in 2012. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Jeri Donnell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/2008FarmBill/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sId-OX2L5gc/index.html I can't remember a time when the grass has been as green, the cows have been as fat, ponds have been as full, and producers have been as worried about their future and the future of agriculture as a whole. The really frustrating part about the predicament we find in mid-2008 is that so many of the contributing factors are beyond our control. Seemingly, the only silver lining is that calf prices have stabilized and are staying relatively strong. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Evan Whitley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CattleMgtPractices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/GmI7IOwE8FM/index.html
Recently, Al Sutherland, OSU Mesonet agriculture coordinator, introduced me to another tool the folks at Mesonet have developed to assist homeowners and professional groundskeepers. This new tool, known as SIP, "Simple Irrigation Plan," was created to answer the most commonly asked questions when it comes to irrigating turfgrass. When should I water? How long should I run it? 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/SIP/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pMmVEN_4Zzc/index.html With current commodity prices, there is much more interest in growing wheat for grain. This means that the cool-season annual grasses that were used as forage when fields were grazed and/or hayed are now weeds that need to be controlled. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Jim Johnson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/WeedCtrl4Grain/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/2AJC7ohRcGg/index.html Most land managers interested in white-tailed deer management are ultimately interested in producing deer with large antlers. Previous work, including that at Texas Parks and Wildlife's Kerr Wildlife Management Area in Kerrville, determined that antler quality is influenced by a combination of factors, the main components being age, nutrition and genetics. 2008-07-01 16:21:00 GMT Ken Gee http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/AntlersGetBetter/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ouiglX2Yidk/index.html Of the 46 species of snakes native to Oklahoma, only seven are venomous to humans. If you learn to identify the seven venomous species, then you will recognize other Oklahoma snakes as not dangerous, even though you may not be able to identify the species. 2008-06-02 18:25:00 GMT Mike Porter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Snakes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/9IinMzflxyA/index.html Byproducts of industrial grain and oilseed processing have become increasingly popular as supplements in cattle diets. However, little is known about how different byproducts affect cattle gain on forage diets. Therefore, an experiment was conducted at the Noble Foundation to compare five byproducts as supplements for growing beef steers. 2008-06-02 18:25:00 GMT Ryan Reuter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ByproductSupplements/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/X9feKRcULlI/index.html Rains in early 2008 have resulted in green pastures and full ponds for many cattle producers. This could ease your worries about water supplies for the summer, but will you have enough good quality water to get through the year? 2008-06-02 18:25:00 GMT Deke Alkire http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/WaterQuality/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/brP34b04g34/index.html As we write this in mid-2008, fertilizer prices have reached all-time highs. How did we get to these price levels and how does an agricultural producer make sound economic decisions in this environment? 2008-06-02 18:25:00 GMT Dan Childs, Jagadeesh Mosali and David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/FertilizerPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Ia77hA6dAiA/index.html An increasingly common question asked by cooperators is "How many cows can I run if I don't fertilize anything"? Legumes can provide an alternative to nitrogen fertilization, but they require a much higher degree of management. 2008-06-02 18:25:00 GMT James Rogers http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Legumes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/nnNl-IGtGak/index.html
The largemouth bass is a member of the sunfish family. With proper management, native largemouth bass can grow to 12 pounds or more. Regardless of the stocked subspecies, available forage (baitfish) is essential to growing big, healthy bass. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Steven Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/LargemouthBass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/__cvd9QgBDQ/index.html As president of the Noble Foundation, I am often asked: "How do the consultation and educational work of the Agricultural Division fit together with the plant science research conducted at the Noble Foundation?" My answer generally begins with the reason for the Agricultural Division. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Mike Cawley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/VitalRole/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/rZxo2oB5us8/index.html
With higher fertilizer and herbicide prices, a common question we get involves whether you get a "bigger bang for the buck" from fertilizer or herbicides on introduced pastures. Ideally you would use both on introduced pastures that have weed problems, but input prices have made this a less than ideal world in pasture management. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Eddie Funderburg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/SprayorFertilize/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/RHHSOiyRsHU/index.html Since the fall of 2006, producers have experienced dramatic increases in production costs, especially grains, by-product feeds, fertilizer and fuels. Also, calf prices have seen a significant drop. The way in which producers do business may have changed forever; it has at least for the short term. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Steve Swigert http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/HigherCosts2008/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/GUJzKyZZyx8/index.html
Flies will be abundant by the time this article hits your mailbox. I already have noticed a large number of flies on livestock. If you have not already started a fly control program for this year, you are probably already behind the curve. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/Flies/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-fjBJM1EIpg/index.html
Mother Nature has blessed several landowners in Oklahoma and Texas with a potential income enterprise. Native pecans are found along the rivers, streams and creeks in both states. On average, 35 million pounds of native pecans are harvested from both states. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/NativePecanGroves/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/FHSJqaRWS2I/index.html The ranching industry has become an even more challenging business lately due to unpredictable weather, rising costs and cattle cycles that no longer seem to follow a typical 10- to12-year trend. 2008-05-01 10:33:00 Chuck Coffey http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/WeatherRisingPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PyqiSkewmcc/index.html
"How are you structured?" and "How do you operate?" are questions Agricultural Division staff are frequently asked. The purpose of this article is to answer those questions. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST Wadell Altom http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/AgStructure/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/WZuPb5Lp3jk/index.html
Four keys to an effective weed management program are knowing the types of weeds present, the problems they cause, estimating their economic thresholds and knowing their available management options. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/WeedMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Gju1vpBNeHY/index.html
In 2006 we experienced the driest growing season on record, only to be followed by the best growing season in 2007. No doubt our pastures have seen the worst of times and the best of times in a very short time frame. As one of my colleagues, Eddie Funderburg, stated recently, your pastures are probably not as good as we saw last year or as bad as we saw in 2006. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Top8/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/su9pFXTTa5I/index.html
Many livestock producers reduced cow numbers in 2006 because of the drought and were hesitant to restock early in 2007. The abundant rainfall last summer, however, cleansed memories and renewed optimism, and we began to add back numbers later in the year in the form of heifers. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/GetTheMost/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/yEXGiok_LI4/index.html A research project has been designed to examine the economic feasibility of utilizing switchgrass in a dual-purpose production system that allows for 1) springtime grazing by stocker cattle and 2) fall biomass production that can be harvested and delivered to a biorefinery that will convert it into ethanol. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST Jon Biermacher, Billy Cook and John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/EstablishSG/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Y-ONzbybTAo/index.html
There are many tools managers can use to manipulate wildlife habitat. The potential a chainsaw offers as a management tool is often overlooked. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST Russell Stevens http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Chainsaw/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sUh5iteIE_I/index.html In the mid-1990s, a program was started at the Noble Foundation to develop a cool-season perennial grass. Now, more than a decade later, the Noble Foundation is close to achieving this long-sought goal. Perhaps ironically, the candidate grass was found on one of the Noble Foundation's own farms. 2008-04-01 13:52:00 CST J. Adam Calaway http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/CoolSeasonGrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/f8eUVwqWjpU/index.html The highly anticipated cattle inventory report has been released for 2008. The numbers reflect decisions made by individual ranchers throughout 2007 and the previous couple of years. 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Job Springer http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/2008Cattle/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/D_QQzzqfDGI/index.html The growing season of 2007 brought much needed range recovery in many areas of the country. To characterize the improvement of some rangeland from poor to very good within a single growing season would be an understatement in many cases. The amount and timing of the rainfall in 2007 was very unusual and very infrequent for most areas. 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Matt Mattox http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/HoldOnGrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pf9tK0cbTkM/index.html I've fielded many questions pertaining to composts and composting over the years. The demand for information on these topics has never been greater than today. 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/Compost/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/qPq1OoBCh6g/index.html Cattle producers should seriously consider getting a breeding soundness exam. Before you jump to conclusions, let me explain! 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Evan Whitley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/Soundness/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/DVHatf0-mo4/index.html The presence of native grasses in a plant community is a good indicator that the pasture has not been overutilized and that the ecosystem is functioning properly. But what if you or your neighbor has decided to leave native grasses standing over the winter? Do these dry, native grass stands present an unnecessary fire hazard? 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Chan Glidewell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/DormantGrasses/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1pQ1vulf1zQ/index.html In a time of record high fertilizer and commodity prices, should you apply sulfur (S) fertilizer? Well, an economist would say, "It depends." As an agronomist, I would have to agree with them. Some critical factors for applying S fertilizer are S soil test level, soil type, yield goal for the crop, amount of nitrogen fertilizer being applied and the amount of S obtained from rain, irrigation and other sources. 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Jim Johnson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/Sulfur/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ExFY0Z_vrWs/index.html As part of the prescribed burn planning process, managers should secure the appropriate equipment. 2008-02-29 08:00:00 CST Ken Gee http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BurningBasics/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/9fWn4GwYsgY/index.html The Noble Foundation Agricultural Division has several events planned for 2008. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST Shan Ingram http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/2008events/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/J5NCk3GqwFs/index.html Do high prices have you wondering what to do with this year's wheat crop? If so, now is a good time to consider your options. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST Jeri Donnell http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/2008wheat/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ixvjK2KmrNI/index.html The value of mineral supplementation is either discounted or overlooked by many beef cattle producers. Mineral supplements make up a small part of the total diet, but can play a big role in the overall performance of beef cattle. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST Deke Alkire http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/MineralSupplement/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/97VIe3LKBoc/index.html In the 2006 State of the Union Address, President George W. Bush proposed the Advanced Energy Initiative to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign oil through accelerated development of domestic, renewable alternatives to gasoline and diesel fuels. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/AltPerennialGrasses/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pOIeLYyZSSc/index.html If you see white surface crusting in areas of your fields, or if you see some areas that are wetter than others after a few days of rain, this could be an indication of a salt-affected soil. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST Jagadeesh Mosali http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/SaltAffectedSoils/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/IsvnohgJkP0/index.html Some expert observers of the fertilizer market have estimated that there may be another 20 percent increase in price by spring 2008. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/forecast2008/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/js1wcGNhMYg/index.html Characteristics and management of a pond or marsh influence its ability to attract migratory ducks. 2008-01-31 17:00:00 CST Mike Porter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/DuckMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ni3CM907xQM/index.html When a vehicle is used in a trade or business, the expenses to own and operate the vehicle are deductible in most situations. It is common, however, for vehicles to be driven for both business and personal use. In this case, the business owner must divide these expenses, usually by miles driven for each purpose. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Dan Childs http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/RulesforDeducting/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/h7xFtGYqJjY/index.html Across the nation, tall fescue covers some 35 million acres making it one of the most popular forages in the country. Unfortunately, for many people the mere mention of tall fescue brings an automatic dismissal conjuring up bad experiences with poor animal performance or lack of persistence. There are a lot of negative feelings that need to be overcome before tall fescue becomes an accepted option. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST James Rogers http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/TallFescueMisconceptions/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/YMOzc1GKibs/index.html Mother Nature blessed us with above normal rainfalls during the spring and early summer, which aided in a very heavy crop set for most of southern Oklahoma and northern Texas. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/2007PecanSeason/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sMmmgovyQdw/index.html Everything we do throughout the year has an impact on a ranch's overall profitability. One thing that directly impacts the bottom line is the time of year that your calves are born. An annual plan should be in place well before bull turnout time. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/PlanBreedingSeason/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/a9nUacNfpm4/index.html With the increasing cost of inputs, many producers are looking for ways to cut costs while still maintaining yield. The most economical forage system will have a diverse set of species to provide high quality forage throughout the entire year to reduce the need for hay and feed. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Twain Butler http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/LegumesnGrasses/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ptlJbda1plo/index.html Fertilizer prices are at a historic high, and, with the amount of corn acres predicted in 2008, the outlook is that prices will climb even higher next spring. So, at what nitrogen fertilizer price is it no longer economical to fertilize bermudagrass in a cow/calf enterprise? 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Jeff Ball http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/NitrogenCostperCow/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/YdCoUxe8-cU/index.html It has been well documented that bobwhite habitat has steadily decreased and habitat fragmentation has increased. In 2006, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation and the Natural Resources Conservation Service partnered together to improve bobwhite habitat on a landscape level with a program called the Quail Habitat Restoration Initiative through the Environmental Quality Incentive Program. 2007-12-31 13:26:00 CST Steven Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BobwhiteAssistance/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/YTzqRnhsR_4/index.html Many landowners in Oklahoma and Texas are becoming increasingly interested in incorporating wildlife management into their cattle operations. Many variables can influence compatibility between wildlife and cattle, including, but not limited to, cattle stocking rate, species of wildlife, forage type, climate, etc. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Russell Stevens http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Cattle/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/139CXKjujMQ/index.html The price of corn in late 2007 is in the $3+ range, with little evidence that it might go down. Therefore, if live cattle prices stay near current levels, producers can expect the value of gain to stay near the current level of $.90-$1/cwt. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Steve Swigert http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ValueGainBull/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/NptS1HG_bPg/index.html Beginning in April 2008, we will evaluate the utilization and value of switchgrass for stocker cattle. Switchgrass may have value for stockers because of its early spring availability, high yields, perennial life form, wide adaptability and low fertilization requirements. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/SGvalue/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ngjcgQdd_zY/index.html November through February are prime pruning months because it is the insect dormant season. Though you can prune at any point during the year, the wound provides a highway into the tree for insects, so the safest season to prune is during the winter months. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Dooly Barlow http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/TreePruning/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/PIhegZpO2Z0/index.html We have a tendency to balance winter rations for cows in two phases: non-lactating, in the middle third of pregnancy (dry); and then post-calving, in peak lactation (wet). Using nutritional requirements for the average weight of the cow herd, it's simple to come up with two feeding regimes; one for before calving and one for after calving. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/PrepareforWinter/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8cnddzGcNS4/index.html Some people want to control brush, but don't have a sprayer, have too much brush to use a sprayer or just want to do selective brush control. There are several options, each with advantages and disadvantages. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Eddie Funderburg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/BrushControl/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/_SniB5yTRUU/index.html Forage availability is frequently a limiting factor during the fall in winter annual grazing systems. Limit grazing has the potential to stretch limited, high quality forage resources further without depressing animal performance. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Chuck Coffey, Devlon Ford and David Lalman http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/LimitGrazing/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/n1brHHY0eaU/index.html Applications for Sam Noble Scholarships in agriculture and technology are available from the Noble Foundation. 2007-12-03 15:21:00 CST Scott McNeill http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/SNScholarships/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/DDxRLxlJZZs/index.html Chances are that if you are managing deer on your property, you have probably been encouraged to conduct some type of population survey. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Ken Gee http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/DeerPopSurveys/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8kODZhdnbW0/index.html Considering the high cost of commercial fertilizers, applying animal manures, poultry litter and biosolids in pastures may be a valuable alternative for forage production. These waste products not only provide essential nutrients, but can also add organic matter to improve structure, aeration and water-holding capacity of soil. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Jagadeesh Mosali http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/Biosolids/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/y8uEB5hSj4A/index.html Greenbugs are a species of aphid that can reproduce rapidly when the temperature is above 55 degrees F. The insects reduce yields by sucking plant juices from the leaves and killing them or potentially transmitting diseases. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/Greenbugs/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/UXeHRM1TO9I/index.html In the summer of 2007, Mark Swapp, a horticulture major at New Mexico State University, was commissioned with the task of administering and summarizing results of a survey of hoop house growers in Oklahoma and the 18 Texas counties located in our service area. By the end of his internship, Mark had interviewed growers from 12 Oklahoma counties and one Texas county. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/HoopHouseSurvey/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/xeIRSha6iNE/index.html With weaning just finishing up for spring calving cow herds, it brings the end of the first phase of production for a bovine. During this time, revenues are returned to the cow and, likewise, the costs. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Job Springer http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/HowMuchSheMake/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LXvV0GLbGMc/index.html This past summer, through the efforts of James Pitman, the 2007 pasture and range intern, and Frank Motal, wildlife and range research program supervisor, the Agricultural Division was able to collect data on the transects in what we refer to as "the eastern gamagrass paddocks" or Pasture 12 of the Coffey Ranch. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/EasternGamagrass2/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/eyK_W9W9wmA/index.html Most climatologists say that 2007 is a wet year during an extended drought. Let's hope they're wrong, but what if they're not? How do we fully capitalize on our good fortune this year? One way is to optimally utilize forage reserves with a complementary supplemental feeding program. 2007-11-01 08:21:00 CST Evan Whitley http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/ForageReserves/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/6Cj5EONs_qM/index.html With costs on the rise, many landowners are seeking less expensive alternatives to mechanical or chemical weed control in pastures. One natural method to achieve this goal is to stock goats to consume unwanted brush and weeds. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST Jim Johnson and Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/Goats/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/OoiaOyn4qfg/index.html Over the past two decades, winter forage producers have been asking researchers if conservation farming practices are more economical than conventional practices. Studies dating back to mid-1980 have sought answers to these questions. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST Jon Biermacher and Chuck Coffey http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ConservationFarming/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/CLoKdU1iKMI/index.html Mourning dove is the most abundant dove species, the most abundant game bird and one of the most abundant songbirds in southern Oklahoma and north Texas. Many people enjoy watching, feeding, photographing and hunting mourning dove. Yet, it is surprising how few landowners and land managers manage for dove. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST Michael Porter http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/MourningDove/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TuNnKeqcDHE/index.html Let's face it - it is difficult to justify having haying equipment when all you have is 10 acres. However, if you and your neighbors can work together, why not pool your resources? Small acreage producers, and even larger producers, can benefit from associations and cooperatives. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST David Annis http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/PoolingResources/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/GWQf6akTkrY/index.html High fertilizer prices, the aesthetics of a rangeland prairie setting versus a monoculture forage base, and advantageous government cost-share programs have led to many acres being planted to native grass or rangeland over the past five to 10 years. Fall is a good time to look further into the pros and cons of this practice to prepare for the spring growing season. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST Matt Mattox http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/LittleBluestem/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/aDBkzSNxEQM/index.html The Ag News and Views newsletter is marking its 25th anniversary during 2007. What was once a mailed, regional paper publication sent to a few hundred farmers and ranchers is now a trusted agricultural news source distributed to tens of thousands in print and electronic editions. 2007-10-01 10:14:00 CST Scott McNeill http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/History/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/iCFQ3mtvgqw/index.html Weather has created challenges for hay production in both 2006 and 2007. Last year, in 2006, little hay was put up on the southern plains because of drought. The first half of this year brought abundant rainfall, with June being one of the wettest months on record in many parts of Oklahoma and Texas, but these wet conditions create new challenges that we should be aware of as either producers or consumers of hay. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST James Rogers and Robert Wells http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/RainEffects/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/f0U7zKl_-Ys/index.html The Noble Foundation provides significant support to youth through scholarships, assisting with livestock shows, the Junior Beef Excellence Program, AgVenture and many other activities. We also hire interns each summer to assist with various projects. Each intern is assigned a project that involves collecting, analyzing and presenting data in the forms of a written report and an oral presentation. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST Wadell Altom http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/InternProgram/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/nm5hbfEApyA/index.html In 1991, Leonard A. Brennan theorized that if the population decline of northern bobwhites continued until 2000, hunting opportunities would likely be lost across the majority of the range of the bobwhite. Fortunately, this has never happened. However, many of you have noticed bobwhite populations are nowhere near the numbers of the good old days. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST Steve Smith http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/IntroducedGrasses/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/bl21piEmnq0/index.html Excess rainfall this summer may have caused a few problems with hay harvest, but there has not been too much complaining. The wet summer has provided excellent soil moisture conditions for both warm-season and cool-season forage production this fall. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST Jeff Ball http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/SoilMoisture/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TMfp0cDRqH0/index.html With the heavy crop load that most of us are seeing during 2007, there are major factors that producers need to consider this time of year. In the majority of orchards that I've been in during this summer, scab, a fungal disease, is a major problem. With all the rain this year, scab has appeared on trees that haven't been previously affected. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST Charles Rohla http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/PecanPredators/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Yd62q4nXNtk/index.html The abundance of forage, mild temperatures and strong cattle prices have many cow-calf producers wondering if it is time to increase their cow herd numbers. 2007-08-31 09:59:00 CST Dan Childs http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/IsItTime/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pz3BqxE2MwY/index.html The amount of land managed for wildlife in Texas has exploded in the past 20 years and is increasing in other states across the country as well. For many farms and ranches in Texas, it's a wildlife enterprise that allows the family to remain in agriculture. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Russell Stevens and Scott Boyd http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/TaxClassification/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/RuJV1d7H64s/index.html Since fertilizer prices remain at all-time highs, many producers ponder the question, "Is it worth it to fertilize winter pasture?" I'll try to answer that in the space below. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Eddie Funderburg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/WinterPastures/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/VdcQjfk5D3k/index.html Haying has been a real challenge with the frequent rains we've experienced. The consensus among the Agricultural Division's consulting teams is that most of the hay put up so far this summer has had at least one rain fall on it before baling. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Clay Wright http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/HayQuality/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/BO5ofxB558U/index.html There is no doubt that enough precipitation has fallen to ensure the establishment of newly sodded lawns. Many seeded lawns haven't fared so well as torrential rains have washed seed from the soil. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Dooly Barlow http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/WeatherTips/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/hu__rVk8X_k/index.html What a tremendous year 2007 has been for forage growth. Plants that have been drought-stressed in past years are finally beginning to recover. However, it will most likely take more than one growing season to make up lost ground. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Chuck Coffey http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Rain/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-VCV3K26ci0/index.html The 17th Annual Southern Plains Beef Symposium will take place on Saturday, Aug. 11 at the Ardmore Convention Center in Ardmore, Okla. 2007-08-02 15:33:00 CST Shan Ingram http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/2007SPBS/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Ww_ut-scJno/index.html Graduate students are able to closely interact with both Noble Foundation personnel and producers working with our consultation teams. Their research is dedicated to addressing production, economic or quality-of-life issues that are vital to our mission. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST Evan Whitley, Dan Childs, Matt Mattox and Jeff Ball http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/GradStudents/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/SFcbBySdjxw/index.html There are many good methods for calibration, but they all have the same purpose - to determine the volume or gallons per acre a sprayer is applying. Without knowing the volume applied, we cannot know how much chemical to add to the tank to control the target weed or insect and stay within legal rate limits. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST James Locke http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/CalibrateSprayer/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-qi_8cn5SuQ/index.html Slow seedling establishment has previously limited adoption of switchgrass in forage production. Presently, scientists in the Noble Foundation's Agricultural and Forage Improvement divisions are researching ways to improve switchgrass establishment. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST John Guretzky http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/Switchgrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/XtxAsppAqxs/index.html We often recommend prescribed burning as a method to manage native rangeland and wildlife habitat - and, indeed, many of us believe that fire should be considered an integral component to most rangeland management systems. With all of the touted benefits of prescribed burning, however, we often do not associate costs with the use of fire. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST Ken Gee and Jon Biermacher http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/PrescribedBurning/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/vKiNU_i8Jas/index.html For cattle producers, value of gain is the net value after the price slide of light to heavy cattle has been calculated. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST Steve Swigert http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ValueGainMean/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4U4wdYwLtys/index.html The Noble Foundation's popular Permanent Raised Bed Gardening publication, first published in 1997, has undergone an extensive revision and is now accessible on the Noble Foundation Web site. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST Steve Upson http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/RBGManual/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Y2Byx3qL7Qs/index.html Much of the hay baled this spring was either mature when hayed or may have been rained on during the haying process. Therefore, testing the quality of your hay becomes extremely important. Some hays will require little, if any, supplement, and other hays will require substantial supplementation to meet the nutritional requirements of the livestock being fed. 2007-07-10 15:03:00 CST Hugh Aljoe http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/ForageTesting/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Kn4Ja6v_yXU/index.html Surface area is one of the most important pieces of information that a manager needs to appropriately manage a pond. Yet it is surprising how many people estimate or guess a pond's surface area rather than measure it. Mike Porter 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/SurfaceArea/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/IrBkCU_vb0k/index.html Lately, forage producers have seen the cost of fertilizer increase sharply. Let's look at how to determine the "true" cost of nitrogen by fertilizer source. David Annis 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/BytheNumbers/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/vBctTqbg89Y/index.html The market price of hay varies substantially from year to year, making it extremely difficult to determine its price in the future. Fundamental economics tell us that the future price of a particular good will be determined by expected supply and expected demand. Job Springer 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/HayPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/UIfvoSRLVf0/index.html Between 2003 and 2006, a project was conducted on the Noble Foundation Headquarters Farm to demonstrate the possibility and practicality of pasturing stockers on bermudagrass while using legumes instead of nitrogen fertilizer. Jim Johnson 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/NitrogenFertilizerGiveaway/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/EpMOA9IJe88/index.html There was a time when many people in the industry considered electric fence to be a waste of time and money. However, when a fence is designed and built properly using a low impedance charger, there are few circumstances in which it will not work. Devlon Ford 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ElectricFencing/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/M7sCR-qYU58/index.html In this age, we are all bombarded with a large amount of information every day. How you filter for the good information, and then decide what to do with it, is the key to making the information work for you. Matt Mattox 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/GreatHabits/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Wr6oDITTqUY/index.html Webster's dictionary defines season as "a period of the year characterized by or associated with a particular activity or phenomenon." Note that the definition says "period of the year," not all year. Kyle Stutts 2007-06-04 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/CalvingSeason/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/F1PZJ1nCJ18/index.html I would like to share a few things about the ultimate governance of our organization, which is done by our Board of Trustees. Specifically, I want to discuss board composition, board commitment and board accommodation of family unity. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/Governance/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/nXzjtlPHhQ4/index.html May is when the northern bobwhite quail hatch begins, but several steps must occur first. Nest construction starts by creating a small bowl-shaped depression in the ground and covering it with last year's vegetation to form a dome. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BobwhiteNesting/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/rDDywPD2opo/index.html Southern Oklahoma and north Texas have become popular locations for the horse industry, which is primarily due to the major shows hosted annually in Ft. Worth, Oklahoma City and Tulsa. As a result, there is an ever-increasing demand for high-quality bermudagrass hay. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/QualityBermuda/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/iIIqqaKQWzQ/index.html In 1997, the Forage Improvement Division was established at the Noble Foundation. It was challenged to start a program that focused on the development of perennial winter forages that could serve as high-quality, cost-reducing substitutes for annually produced winter forages. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/CrossDivisionalProjects/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8VGsExKlnkw/index.html Assembling a good first aid kit in advance of a situation can be the difference between a minor or major emergency. It really doesn't matter if you are designing a kit for horses or cattle - the basics are still the same. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/AnimalEmergencies/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/yyZR5GEkTBM/index.html We just had our inaugural pecan-planting workshop, where attendees were able to gain knowledge about planting pecan trees. Presenters gave tips on how to plant, planting locations, tree varieties, weed management and irrigation. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/PlantingPecan/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/qe550KhUPSU/index.html The basis of water management is to capture as much rainfall as you can through infiltration into the soil, where it is then available for the growth of desired plants. 2007-05-14 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/MoistureMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/wnPLarAWG8s/index.html Low body condition scores (BCS) brought on by the 2006 drought have left an ongoing challenge for cattle production. Low BCS may bring conception difficulties for spring-calving herds. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/DroughtChallenges/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/_LnqKn0TMr4/index.html Fertilizer prices are high, but proper fertilization of forages can still provide less expensive feed than the alternatives. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/HighNPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/RQlkPjrZp_M/index.html Our consulting program appears to be a well-kept secret. As some of our staff visited with attendees during recent educational events, we became aware that many land managers near Ardmore, as well as those a few counties away, knew very little about the consulting service available from the Agricultural Division. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/Consultation/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/0Bee4XeGXr0/index.html Creep grazing calves is a management practice allowing calves to graze designated areas - separately from the cows - where the forage quality is higher than the grazing pasture. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/CreepGrazing/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1Tf-y4ZQCaA/index.html A quality fishery begins with proper pond construction, proper water quality and proper initial stocking. Pond size and goals are the most critical factors when determining the number of fish to stock and the type of fishery. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/ProperStocking/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/D_TFa1lI-xA/index.html Some cattle producers may face difficulties in this year's market - receiving lower prices for calves while paying more for supplemental feed. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/CornPricesShock/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/jK6SPJOK6Sk/index.html Mark your calendars now! The Noble Foundation will be conducting a Research Farms Field Day on April 28 with registration starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Ardmore Convention Center. 2007-04-16 16:55:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/ResearchFieldDay2007/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/GzxmmKb7npk/index.html The use of a price slide reduces risk in forward contracting and creates the framework for a competitive market price. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/PriceSlides/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/a_L3SBhV3qs/index.html We lived through a significant drought in 2006. Some much-needed winter precipitation has lessened our fears, but some forecasts still call for drier than "normal" weather starting in May. Normal? Who knows what "normal" is? 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/NormalRain/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4oCZEHu7NN8/index.html Thanks to the folks at AgWeather, decision making has become much easier in the last few years. AgWeather is a cooperative project between Oklahoma State University, the University of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Climatological Survey. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/AgWeather/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/3EC9JOXpO7A/index.html If you are a beef producer or have ties to the beef industry, I bet you can remember where you were when bovine spongiform encephalopathy officially was discovered in the United States. The exact date was Dec. 23, 2003. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/NatAnimalID/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/IwPkkbzW8m8/index.html Why don't more people use prescribed burning in Oklahoma and Texas? One reason that comes to mind is the fact that most of the Noble Foundation's service area was under a burn ban this time last year, which happens to be the peak time for conducting prescribed burns. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/BurnLiability/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/tH9kvWJa6qo/index.html Native pecan production in Oklahoma and north Texas is often considered a "Christmas bonus." If folks are fortunate enough to make a crop, it's great, but not something they have much control over. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/FertilizingPecans/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Y5mdzNS4OnQ/index.html The Noble Foundation's Agricultural Division recently conducted its annual Prescribed Burning Workshop, and turnout was excellent. Some of us have been discussing the "how to's" and touting the benefits of prescribed burning for so long, we sometimes forget this land management tool is a new concept to some people. 2007-03-12 17:05:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Goals4Burns/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/gISI2PkaBKc/index.html Some of you may be wondering, "Is it really 2007, and, if so, where did the time go?" I know I find myself in this situation. Then, I realize I am getting old, and it won't get any better. The only thing I can do is make the best of the situation I'm in and keep on going. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/2007Events/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/dTbknHV04dg/index.html It appears that 2007 is stacking up to be an exciting year for U.S. agriculture. Some of these issues are very political and controversial, while others are the result of supply and demand relationships sometimes affected by a particular weather extreme. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/CornPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8X9NzgD48zs/index.html 2006 was one of the driest growing seasons on record, low rainfall translated to less forage production, low hay production, overgrazing and, in some cases, total stand losses. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/ReduceRisks/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/RPJhuNPHGaw/index.html Artificial insemination is one of the most effective tools available to enhance the productivity and profitability of beef cattle production systems. Even though this tool has been commercially available for more than 65 years, it is still dramatically underused in today's beef herds. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/ArtificialInsemination/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/T83eFhhB9Lg/index.html During the 2003 to 2006 growing seasons, the Noble Foundation conducted research at the Pasture Demonstration Farm northwest of Ardmore, Okla., to determine the effects of no-till and conventional management on small grain forage yields. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/SmallGrains/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/hJ72LyMpT4o/index.html How many of us have been scared by the fertilizer recommendation on our soil test results? To grow introduced forages to meet livestock demand or yield goal, it is important to fertilize according to a soil test recommendation. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/ForageProduction/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/MAvJLTf99Ek/index.html Winter is the time to inspect, clean and repair existing nest boxes and erect new boxes for cavity-nesting birds. Nesting activity for some cavity-nesting species can begin during late January through March, but peaks for most species during April through June. 2007-02-01 13:38:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/NestBoxes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/TwMM6zROLdc/index.html Many Noble cooperators ask, "How do I thicken my stand back up?" Use these tips to develop a healthy stand that can bounce back quickly if rainfall returns to normal. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/ForageStands/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/FVstMcDJ8uE/index.html In fall and winter 2006, many folks wondered what the price of corn was going to do. Would it keep increasing? What was - and still is - causing it to go so high? 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/HigherCornPrices/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-liDKnzd43o/index.html Just a few months ago, the United States Department of Agriculture predicted Oklahoma pecan production would be around 20 million pounds, and Texas production would be around 36 million pounds. However, by the time the final counts are in, it appears we may fall below these predictions. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/ProductionDown/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/A-0aXjzXNNs/index.html Since ranchers are traditionally optimistic, we now are thinking about restocking before the next growing season. Buying replacements that maintain or increase herd uniformity should be a primary focus of this effort. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/SmartRestocking/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/2udB5OQUGkc/index.html In baseball, a good outfielder can "cover the gap." A new tall fescue that could do the same may be headed your way. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/TallFescue/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/KaZI3IpnDSA/index.html I want to use this article to address commonly asked questions regarding the role of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in plants and outline the characteristics of their primary fertilizer sources. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/Back2Basics/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/6wc2DQvN-lA/index.html If you have bobwhites calling your native pastures home, you probably have more grass than the neighbors. Bobwhites can be a good indicator of grazing management on native pastures. 2007-01-03 14:24:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/AffectQuail/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/lMSYUPcpVvQ/index.html Lack of forage (quantity and quality) is the cause of many cattle being in less-than-desirable body condition going into the winter - the next few months are going to be critical, regardless of whether your cows calve in the fall or spring, due to bull turn-out and calving season rapidly approaching. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/DesignSuppFeed/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/c1nM6WfNrxk/index.html Over the years, I have observed that we try to force nature to do unnatural things when it comes to landscaping homes and businesses. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/Pavers/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LAAZKGtVQAg/index.html I'd like to take a few moments to reflect on the significant happenings in the research arena here in Noble's Agricultural Division during 2006. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/ResearchEfforts/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/3cw70DvYK_M/index.html Severe drought made 2006 one of the worst years on record for pastures and crops in our area, and some of the effects of the drought will still be felt in 2007. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/DroughtEffects/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/A-pDGNwwJgw/index.html Stockpiled bermudagrass is a viable alternative to feeding hay to steers after weaning or receiving and prior to winter grazing. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Backgrounding/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/fQS8fwuqsmQ/index.html If you really want to be more efficient with your current enterprises, you need more detail than how the farm or ranch did as a whole. 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/RecordKeeping/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/W0HwsG5KXU0/index.html Since 1998, the percentage of yearling does in the total Walnut Bayou Deer Management Association doe harvest seems to be somewhat stable, leading us to conclude doe harvest at this level definitely does not "kill the factory." 2006-12-01 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/KillingTheFactoryII/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/dhddpxXi_u0/index.html Participation in a USDA-approved QSA or PVP is strictly voluntary, but it does provide the opportunity to add value to your calves - producers should review the available programs? procedures/guidelines and determine which program is best for them. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/AgeVerify/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/I4MMMbEXqRM/index.html In case you haven't heard, Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry signed legislation this past summer creating the Oklahoma Farm to School Program within the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry (ODAFF). The overarching goal of the program is to link Oklahoma farms and schools, creating new marketing opportunities for farmers and alternative sources of nutritious fresh fruits and vegetables for inclusion in school meals and snacks. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/OKFarmsSchools/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/7R6PthV2NWI/index.html Every summer, we are asked about controlling big weeds in pastures. But, by the time we get the question, most of the damage is done and options are limited. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/CleanerPastures/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/QUF_YcXgV7M/index.html The bottom line is that this drought will probably not have a long-term effect on deer populations, but it certainly has the potential to have some short-term effects. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/DeerandDrought/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/SgNriOMjvIg/index.html There are several components to a successful cow-calf management strategy - among them should be an effective strategy for culling unproductive cows from the herd. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/ValueTesting/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/2xnc7oYLCBs/index.html In recent years, grazing-type alfalfa varieties have been released, providing opportunities to livestock operations as a low-input, high-return forage, if managed properly; stands typically could last three to five years with good management. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/AlmostPermanent/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/vQ3wZ_FXKk4/index.html Because of last year's severely dry weather, the results of the 2005-2006 small grains forage variety test conducted at Ardmore, Okla., and Burneyville, Okla., should be reviewed with caution. 2006-11-06 10:15:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/0506GrainTrial/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/4kBANQ8Ox3s/index.html The National Drought Monitor Web site indicates the area is in either extreme or exceptional drought. As if not having adequate good-quality water for cow herds isn't bad enough, there is little to no available standing forage going into winter at a time of record-high hay prices. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/WinterStrategies/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/tbqjxPmfvmE/index.html Most, if not all, cattle operations in the southern Great Plains have been adversely affected by two years of drought conditions. In our travels, we have noticed that the majority of the most adversely affected forages are bermudagrass pastures. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Ryegrass/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/QBnLqG_GbaE/index.html The Noble Foundation is placed to become a national leader in the development of novel feedstocks, particularly for bioethanol production. In this article, I briefly explain how activities in Noble's Plant Biology Division will contribute to these efforts. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/BiofuelsII/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1tHccIP1OoM/index.html This fall, we may see an outbreak of armyworms and/or grasshoppers. If you have lush green winter pasture - or any pasture, for that matter - it may be a prime target. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/armyworms/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/7mMVZNv0qvY/index.html Now that the Japanese market has reopened to U.S. beef, there is increasing demand for source- and age-verified cattle. Source and age verification must be documented and verified through a recognized United States Department of Agriculture program. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/VerifyPrograms/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/pZTIwABhRAc/index.html http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/FriedDuck/duck.jpg http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/FriedDuck/index.html Some people are reluctant to hunt duck, or they try to give away their harvested ducks, because they think duck tastes bad. However, wild duck is like many meats: It can taste delicious when properly prepared, or it can taste terrible when poorly prepared. 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/FriedDuck/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/B3M43srTmdU/index.html Growing up, I remember going to my great-uncle's farm and looking through his barn/shop. Behind the old wooden doors, jugs of herbicides and insecticides, barrels of oil and grease, tools, his welder and whatever implements or tractor he had taken apart covered the dirt floor. When the floor got in bad shape, he would occasionally throw a shovel or two of soil over the top to "clean it up." 2006-10-02 17:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/HazardousMaterials/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8qskjGrBrIU/index.html If you are like me, you are already planning for the upcoming quail season. The habitat available for this upcoming season is a result of current-year and past-year habitat management. Management practices affecting habitat include grazing, mowing or haying, prescribed fire or wildfire, and brush or weed management. 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/QuailSeason/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/3nIonSFstTY/index.html The bottom line in this and every drought is to protect the forage resource and maintain the productivity of the cow herd. We can never cheat the basics. Many costly lessons are being learned during this drought. 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/Drought2006/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/6aTYahsddt0/index.html After returning from the Oklahoma and Texas pecan growers association meetings where water management was a topic of discussion, I felt the need to write about pecan water management. 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/PecanWaterNeeds/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/r9jh9Wv7HSQ/index.html Forage producers with grazing livestock have just come through two of the worst growing seasons most folks can remember. Let's break that down into manageable segments: September to frost, frost to March and March to May. There are management strategies for each segment that can help stretch forage and keep managers in control instead of just reacting to a limited forage situation. 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Segments/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/eoOX4M-4u5E/index.html U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns has acknowledged these extremes - effective July 27, 2006, all 77 counties in Oklahoma were designated as natural disaster areas. In addition, several counties in Texas have received the same designation. What does this mean to a cattle producer living in one of these counties? 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/DroughtRelief/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sGFwPFdDNPI/index.html Soil testing pays, and I am certain you've heard this statement from one of Noble's soil and crops specialists before. We already have begun seeing soil test results with high residual nitrogen. These levels have been high enough at times to cause us to not recommend nitrogen fertilization for fall/winter pasture forage production. 2006-09-12 15:30:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/ResidualNitrogen/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/yD3K0jshCow/index.html Pastures are quickly burning up due to the heat and dry conditions, resulting in ranchers quickly running out of grazeable pasture that provides the necessary energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. Since the drought is covering such a large area, accessible supplemental hay and available rental pasture is not abundant in nearby areas. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/DroughtOptions/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/b9-r_Ktwg7U/index.html One of the most common inquiries I get around this time of year in very dry years goes like this: "I put out fertilizer on my pasture this spring, and it hasn't rained much. I've had very little grass growth. Is the fertilizer still there? If so, how long will it stay there?" The quick answer is it's probably still there. The more informative answer is a bit more involved, but I'll try to explain it as simply as possible. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/FertStillThere/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/iroqtzjSIoo/index.html To increase quail numbers, the factor limiting their numbers must be identified and corrected. In most years and in most situations, plant food production is generally not the limiting factor. Thus, disking seldom increases bobwhite abundance because it does not address the issues that usually limit bobwhite numbers. However, food availability can limit quail numbers. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/BobwhiteAbundance/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ljxufbMAfr0/index.html Ethanol is a subject that residents of North Texas and Oklahoma largely hear about from other parts of the country - there are few places to purchase ethanol/gasoline blends in our area, and ethanol is not a product that our states produce in any measurable quantities. Why? Most of the ethanol in the United States is produced from corn, and production facilities and distribution points tend to be located in the Midwest, where 200-plus bushels per acre is commonplace. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/Biofuels/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/j7MV6r4yHuE/index.html I have wanted to write this article since June 2005 when Noble's staff horticulturists took cooperators on a horticulture tour of central Oklahoma. The reason for these tours is to allow growers of horticultural crops to share their opinions with cooperators. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/HortTours/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/NUCWbfhU30A/index.html Since its launch in 1997, the Noble Foundation's popular online Plant Image Gallery has helped thousands of natural resource managers, ecologists, students and homeowners who are seeking to identify plants. Now, Noble is pleased to announce some upgrades to the site that will make plant identification faster and easier. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/NewPIGallery/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LlSnJOa5-SA/index.html Lack of rain has caused cattle producers to scramble for any means possible just to hold on to their cattle. If we are trying to stay positive, then one good thing that has come out of all this is we have had to stretch conventional thought paradigms and incorporate some pretty unorthodox thinking. An example of this revolves around supplementing alternative feedstuffs to mature cows. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/ByProductFeeds/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/T9H71Gaqkxs/index.html If you need a break, want to learn something that could help your operation, enjoy visiting with friends and appreciate a good ribeye steak -- you should plan on attending the 16th annual Southern Plains Beef Symposium at the Ardmore Convention Center on August 12. Each year, we bring in great speakers who address timely topics so you can leave with "take-home information" that will improve your operation. 2006-08-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/SPBeef2006/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/NiWkb67gaCc/index.html Cow-calf producers have seen interest rates and energy, fertilizer, freight, corn and hay prices increase over the past few years. There doesn't seem to be any relief in the immediate future. As cost per cow increases, so do break-even prices for weaned calves. How sensitive are the break-evens to fluctuations in costs? What can producers do to improve their operations? 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/RisingCosts/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/MAq1NjwmW_Q/index.html Planting season for winter pasture is rapidly approaching, and, after the lack of rainfall in our geographic region last fall and winter, there will be less cereal rye and wheat seed available this year. Therefore, if you have not located a source of seed for winter pasture, you'd better start now and reserve your needs as soon as possible. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/Plan4WinterPasture/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/p4KbOsSTv1w/index.html Whether you live in the city or the country, the cost of keeping your garden and landscape watered continues to escalate. To get the most out of your irrigation dollar, consider adopting some of the following moisture management strategies. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/MoistureMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/53sr_HqqC0s/index.html If you were creating a list of important wildlife plants for the Noble Foundation's service area, oaks would certainly be at or near the top of the list. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Oaks/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/wlb8FK53wic/index.html Deciding what source to use for summer nitrogen can be difficult, because each has its pros and cons. The deciding factor for most producers is their tolerance for risk versus the cost for each type of nitrogen fertilizer. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/NitrogenSource/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Gkqh4ya0yxk/index.html Like us, many producers purchase inputs such as fuel, fertilizer, hay and feed in bulk quantities in order to obtain price discounts. Although this can be viewed as "smart shopping" on the part of the producer, it has serious implications to farm management decisions if the bulk-purchased inputs are not expensed across the enterprises correctly. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/BulkPurchasedInputs/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1EiCEL75zww/index.html With the end of the spring breeding season coming to a close, it's time to start planning the next step for the cows in your herd -- pregnancy evaluation. Pregnancy evaluation in cattle is an important and valuable management tool. Checking the pregnancy status of your cow herd allows you to make timely culling decisions and focus your resources on the sound, reliable breeders in the herd. 2006-07-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/OpenCows/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/-6l8HbVxiLM/index.html During spring and summer, many people become concerned about plants growing in their ponds. This concern may or may not be justified, because aquatic plants are desirable for many pond management goals. 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Lotus/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/FOJKGH9Xrnw/index.html Preserving the environment for future generations is a laudable goal, but is a conservation easement for you? It is hard to answer with a "yes" or a "no." 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/SuburbanAgriculture/DevelopProperty/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/saweWYEMtq4/index.html I've assembled six steps - from start to finish - that I think are essential for any soil fertility program. 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/SoilFertility/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/fPJA0lW-2p4/index.html Most folks don't realize the Ag Division has a support group that complements the consulting staff. This group - the research team - is comprised of several men and women who have been divided into subgroups to focus on specific areas of research and demonstration. 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/BehindtheScenes/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Gp01YWouWE4/index.html By now, most cattle producers have at least heard the "buzz words" PI and BVDV. If you've picked up just about any trade publication, been to an industry meeting or talked to a Noble Foundation livestock specialist, you've probably seen or heard the terms before - persistently infected (PI) bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Yet, there are still some who have not received, or don't fully comprehend, the message. 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/BVDV/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8PxPElOr494/index.html A static (single year) view of economic production activities generated on farms and ranches by various agricultural industries in the Noble Foundation's 47-county service region. 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/BeefProduction/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/D8X7G1zyUII/index.html Almost every year, a new "wonder grass" is vigorously marketed to beef cattle producers. Most often, these highly touted forages will do what they are advertised to do, but do you really need them? 2006-06-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/ReallyNeed/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/3q5VgvzAHa4/index.html Have you ever wondered how wildlife biologists know some of the information they do? These questions and many more have been addressed using radiotelemetry, a powerful tool wildlife biologists began using in the 1970s. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Technology4Wildlife/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/Aeduyyx4Syk/index.html Weed control is going to be critical this spring following the drought. Bermudagrass has suffered greatly since last fall, and, with its lack of vigor, weeds will be competitive this spring. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/DroughtonBermuda/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/HLd0tHgbmA0/index.html Sericea lespedeza is a native of eastern Asia and can trace its roots in the United States back to 1896, when it was first planted by the North Carolina Agricultural Experiment Station. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/SericeaLespedeza2006/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/ZLzjxqVnWtY/index.html The federal government is interested in finding alternative sources of fuel to reduce the United States' dependence on imported oil. The Noble Foundation today is widely recognized as an institution in a unique position to contribute to switchgrass research and its development into a viable energy crop. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/WhatGoesAround/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/HXdRis7AXgc/index.html This has the potential to be a heavy pecan crop year, if the drought has not hurt things too badly. To ensure a good crop, many management decisions need to be considered over the next few months, including proper fertilization and insect and disease control. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/PecanManagement/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/1gCEYLtnlWw/index.html As the current cattle cycle enters its second year, the outlook for cattle prices is in direct contrast to the outlook for energy costs. The higher costs/lower revenue squeeze will emphasize the need for efficient use of all inputs - especially fuel and fertilizer. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/Fertilizer101/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LEnoV14BARg/index.html These recommendations help commercial cow-calf producers make better decisions internally and produce a more consistent, desirable product. 2006-05-01 08:00:00 CST http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/RampUpMgt/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/cXWSsZ0VlG8/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST Because the Internet offers good opportunities to deliver information quickly and at a very low cost, many organizations, including the Noble Foundation, continue to expand their use of this very valuable tool. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Announcements/Internet/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LlbHrRqb4zU/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST No, I'm not talking about the chicken or the pork guys. It's the other cow-calf producers in your area, in the states of Oklahoma or Texas, the United States and even in foreign countries. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/Competitors/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/jdJcX-f-Tns/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST With the increase in fertility costs, I thought it timely to revisit the subject of hay and see what the value of a 1,200-pound round bale might actually be. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/RealValueHay/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/KpAG-xjv9uE/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST This article will give you a method for doing something to give you a little peace of mind - plus a green lawn - during the winter when everyone has a dormant warm-season lawn. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/GreenWinterLawn/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/LuYb8IN9yEc/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST There is a difference between keeping information and using information. I have witnessed very few producers actually using the information they have kept to make management decisions. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/PowerInfo/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/le4sv2_2C3k/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST This month, I want to identify and briefly discuss the top seven reasons I see that pasture weed control programs don't work as well as they should. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/WeedControlPrograms/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/qaE5b8k7PUk/index.html Wed, 05 Apr 2006 16:00:00 CST Spring is when many land managers are interested in identifying plants for various purposes, including grazing and wildlife habitat management. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/PlantID/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/8St9Mm4S66g/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST When an unexpected wildfire blazes through a property, it generally leaves behind the charred ashes of grass, trees, fences and possibly buildings. Landowners will immediately think of the loss in value the wildfire has created, but, in the eyes of the IRS, is there a deductible loss? http://www.noble.org/Ag/Economics/WildfireVictims/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/bs5PuC8I6vw/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST So, what's new? One thing you may not be aware of is NF Ag News and Views now is available electronically instead of in the printed format. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Research/Articles/Education/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/iuPRiDUUqC0/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST With the spring season approaching, pasture management issues are foremost in producers' minds. Fertility, herbicide treatments, pasture establishment and, for some, setting up a rotational grazing system are such issues. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Forage/RotationallyGraze/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/hszeeU9eQG4/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST Agri-tourism offers tremendous profit potential for Oklahoma farm and ranch families by providing an opportunity for "old aggies" to reconnect with their past and city dwellers to experience, maybe for the first time, life in the country. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Horticulture/Agritourism/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/15ZNSywf-zs/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST Due to current high cattle prices, many producers have intentions of retaining and developing heifers from their spring calf crop. Before undertaking this endeavor, consult an economist, or pencil it out yourself to determine the economic feasibility of raising your own replacement heifers. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Livestock/DevelopingHeifers/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/sVg-67F8iBQ/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST Integrated Crop Management (ICM) is an approach to farming or ranching that aims to balance production factors with economic and environmental considerations. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Soils/IntegratedMgtment/index.html http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/NobleFoundationAgNewsAndViews/~3/XcKLpvmhzB0/index.html Wed, 01 Mar 2006 08:00:00 CST Prescribed fire is one of the most powerful land management tools. Unfortunately, prescribed fires are often confused with wildfires or uncontrolled pasture burns, which often cause great damage. Through proper planning and control, we can use the powerful forces of fire to manipulate positive change on the landscape. http://www.noble.org/Ag/Wildlife/Fires/index.html