Economic stimulus may arrive as prepaid debit card

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…

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Tips to conserve water in the landscape

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…

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Container garden is a great place to start for novice 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…

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App helps researchers learn about gamebird reproduction

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…

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OSU Extension offers great gardening resources

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…

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Be prepared for a variety of emergency situations

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…

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Storm safety while on the road

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – When at home during stormy weather, Oklahomans understand all too well the importance of paying attention to news media updates and the family plan to head to a safe location when tornado sirens sound. Knowing what to do on the road is a different matter, however. Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Extension housing and consumer specialist, said drivers cannot outrun danger. “Seeking a safe place to shelter…

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Be wary of fraudulent COVID-19 supplement claims

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – While many people are doing their part by social distancing in an effort to remain healthy and protect the community, there are others looking to make a quick buck. Those fraudulent marketers are popping up and promoting various products that claim to help prevent or treat COVID-19, said Janice Hermann, Oklahoma State University Extension nutrition specialist. “Fraudulent COVID-19 products can come in many varieties, including dietary supplements…

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Fire, mixed-species grazing enhances livestock production in $10 million research project

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Researchers from Oklahoma State University are partnering with university scientists and researchers in two other states on a project using fire and mixed animal species to graze in an effort to enhance livestock production and more sustainable rangelands. Enhancing Livestock Production from Rangelands in the Great Plains is a research project funded through a five-year, $10 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Institute of…

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OSU News: Weaning option for fall-calving herds

Cow-calf producers may find two-stage weaning process useful By Donald Stotts STILLWATER, Okla. – Cattle producers with fall-calving herds who are contemplating upcoming weaning choices have several options to reduce animal stress. “Many people eat a lot when they are stressed, but calves tend to do the opposite,” said Earl H. Ward, Oklahoma State University Extension area livestock specialist for northeastern Oklahoma. “This can lead to health concerns such as depressed immune systems…

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