Study indicates rising temperatures will increase yield risk, crop insurance premium rates

In a different approach, agricultural economists use ‘cause of loss’ crop insurance data MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University agricultural economists have taken a different approach than most to determine the risk farmers face in growing crops under increasingly higher average temperatures. The results indicate that yield risk will increase in response to warmer weather, with a 1 degree Celsius increase associated with yield risk increasing by approximately 32% for corn and 11%…

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OSU releases bumper crop of wheat varieties

By Brian Brus STILLWATER, Okla. – Scientists at Oklahoma State University are giving wheat farmers new options to plant in their fields soon, five wheat varieties that build on years of research and careful selection of the best traits. Five is a large number even for OSU, which is known for its industry-shaping genetics program and nearly annual releases. However, Brett Carver, who holds the Wheat Breeding Genetics Chair in Agriculture, said optimal conditions…

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Consider Using Prescribed Fire in the Fall

By Will Moseley, Wildlife and Fisheries Consultantand Russell Stevens, Strategic Consultation Manager and Wildlife and Range Consultant Prescribed burning in the southern Great Plains is typically conducted during the dormant season. Recently, there has been more interest and application of fire during the growing season. These fires are typically conducted in July and August. Extending the burning season into the fall (September through first frost) can help producers accomplish their goals and create opportunities to…

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Ripening tomatoes indoors extends fresh flavor longer

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – There is nothing quite like the taste of a tomato picked fresh off the vine. But with the season quickly coming to a close, some gardeners may feel a little sad knowing that vine-fresh taste is fleeting. Fortunately, gardeners do have the ability to extend the flavor of summer just a little longer, said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist. “We’re just now starting to feel the…

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K-State beef experts offer advice for managing calves prior to weaning

MANHATTAN, Kan. — As college kids leave home for the first time, it is important that they transition with a plan that includes being current on immunizations, following good study habits, establishing self-control at the buffet counter and having financial support in place so they have the greatest chance for success in their new environment. In much the same way, calves are most successful in transitioning off the farm when they’ve had good…

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Hay: Weigh, Test and Sample Before You Buy

Hay: Weigh, Test and Sample Before You Buy Three hay-buying tips. by Linda Geist, University of Missouri Extension Weigh, test and sample hay before buying or selling, says University of Missouri (MU) Extension Livestock Specialist Eldon Cole. Beef producers rely on good-quality hay to boost profits. “Unfortunately, our hay production is not always the greatest quality,” Cole says. “The category we excel in is ‘other grass hay’ — specifically, cool-season grass or mostly…

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K-State research among first to analyze safety of industrial hemp as cattle feed

MANHATTAN — A pair of studies at Kansas State University is bringing new insight to farmers and producers seeking to incorporate industrial hemp in cattle feed. After the 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp production in the U.S., interest has grown in industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity, including as feed for animals. FDA approval, however, through the Association of American Feed Control Officials would be required before hemp could be fed to livestock or…

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Trump, Biden Outline Agricultural Priorities

A new look into the priorities for rural America of President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden is revealed in responses to a questionnaire distributed by the American Farm Bureau Federation. AFBF asked the Republican and Democratic candidates to respond with their stances on several topics directly affecting America’s farmers, ranchers and rural communities, including trade, labor, regulatory reform and sustainability. “The views of Farm Bureau members are as diverse as…

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