by Glenn Selk, Oklahoma State University Emeritus Extension animal scientist During hot summer months, the water needed for a cow herd often determines several other management decisions. To best assess the adequacy of water quantities in surface water or from wells or “rural water” supplies, it first is necessary to have an idea of the amount needed for cattle of different sizes and stages of production that you may have during the summer…
By Donald Stotts STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma State University agricultural and natural resource researchers will play pivotal roles in a five-year $20 million grant seeking to identify and solve the most pressing societal problems associated with water availability, land use and infrastructure in Oklahoma. The multi-institutional, multi-disciplinary grant project starting July 1 is funded through the National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research, better known as EPSCoR. “I anticipate seeing positive…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – When it comes to reducing home cooling costs during the summer, some people think adjusting the thermostat is all they can do. Fortunately, there are several things that can help put a dent in the cost of keeping a home cool, said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist. “We all know Oklahoma summers can be hot. Luckily, consumers don’t have to break the…
By Donald Stotts STILLWATER, Okla. – Horse owners should review basic biosecurity practices to guard against the potential spread of vesicular stomatitis to their animals, Oklahoma State University experts said. Vesicular stomatitis is a contagious, viral disease that – while rarely life threatening – can have a significant financial impact on an individual horse owner and the state’s equine industry, said Dr. Barry Whitworth, OSU Extension veterinarian. The first case in the United…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – A warning for those who have not yet received their $1,200 economic stimulus payments: Be careful to not throw it away with the junk mail. “Most people already have received the economic stimulus payment from the IRS either by direct deposit or paper check, but others are still waiting,” said Cindy Clampet, Oklahoma State University Extension assistant resource management specialist. “Those people still waiting could receive that…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Just as water is vital for human life, the plants, trees, shrubs and grass in any landscape also require hydration. However, how much water is used and what watering strategies gardeners choose can have a direct impact on their wallets. “Nobody likes to waste money, but it easily can happen in the landscape if you’re not careful,” said David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist. “Gardeners…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – For some folks, gardening is a mystery – perhaps even intimidating. Some want-to-be gardeners may believe they don’t know enough about it to try, or are simply convinced they don’t have a green thumb. For those who don’t know a rose bush from a tomato plant, there is still hope. David Hillock, Oklahoma State University Extension consumer horticulturist, said anyone can garden, no matter their skill level…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Wildlife biologists in Oklahoma have some new insights into the annual reproduction of gamebirds, thanks to a smartphone app that was developed last year. Oklahoma State University wildlife specialists, along with experts from the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, created the Gamebird Brood Observation app to help gain a better understanding of gamebird reproduction, said Dwayne Elmore, OSU Extension wildlife specialist and Bollenbach Chair in the university’s…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – As Oklahoma residents continue follow social distancing guidelines, some people are turning to gardening to help pass the time. Although the state has many seasoned gardeners, others are picking up seeds and potting soil for the first time and are getting a little dirt under their nails. Fortunately, novice gardeners have a wealth of information available for free through Oklahoma State University Extension, said David Hillock, OSU…
By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma is no stranger to natural disasters and other emergency situations. Residents have seen it all - tornadoes, wildfires, ice storms and flooding. What should Oklahomans do to prepare for what Mother Nature has to offer? Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist, has some advice. “We see a variety of natural disasters in our state. We face everything from tornadoes to wildfires to…