Winter is a great time for garden planning

By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Although the landscape may be bleak in the winter, now is the time for gardeners – those with established green thumbs and those who are just starting out – to get started on their gardening plans for the upcoming growing season. Oklahoma State University Extension offers a variety of gardening information online, but there’s one publication that is especially helpful to gardeners - especially novice gardeners. The Oklahoma Garden Planning Guide is chocked…

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Biosecurity survey to benefit cow-calf production

By Alisa Boswell-Gore STILLWATER, Okla. – A survey to be administered by Oklahoma State University researchers has the potential to improve production within the cow-calf industry. In a joint effort with the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, OSU faculty and Extension specialists will distribute a survey to learn about the biosecurity practices of cow-calf producers. The survey, funded by a $128,375 National Animal Disease Preparedness and Response Program grant,…

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Organic or GMO? Experts explain food lingo

By Gail Ellis STILLWATER, Okla. – As Oklahomans start a new year with new nutrition goals and eating habits, they’re faced with an overwhelming amount of industry diet terms and food lingo. Experts from the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center at Oklahoma State University clarified some of the most common references. Organic The difference between conventional (non-organic) and organic food involves how it is grown and manufactured. While both foods follow regulations and guidelines to…

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Extend the life of a Christmas tree after the holidays

By Trisha Gedon By Trisha Gedon STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahoma families looking for a fun activity after the holidays should look no further than the fresh-cut Christmas tree in their living room. The tree came into the home from nature and now, after the sound of jingle bells fade away, it can be returned to nature. “Once the ornaments and lights have been removed, consider using the fresh-cut tree to help the wildlife in your…

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OSU news release: Rural water wrap-up: Infrastructure funding on the horizon

By Gail Ellis By Gail Ellis STILLWATER, Okla. – Oklahomans in rural areas and small towns are searching for funding to support water and wastewater infrastructure. According to Kevin Wagner, director of the Oklahoma Water Resources Center, more than $80 billion is needed to ensure the state has adequate drinking water and wastewater systems now and in the future. “Almost half of the 800 water supply systems in Oklahoma collectively serve less than 5% of…

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Feeling low? Overcome the winter blues with self-care

By Gail Ellis  STILLWATER, Okla. – When daylight saving time ends in November and end-of-year holidays approach, it’s common to experience symptoms of seasonal affective disorder. Less vitamin D, cold temperatures and the stress of a busy season can take its toll on the human body, physically and mentally. Also known as the winter blues or seasonal depression, the temporary condition causes people to feel tired and sluggish, lonely or sad. They may sleep poorly, have…

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OSU wildfire experts available

Oklahoma State University Extension specialists are available to discuss the weather and environmental conditions that have put the state in a heightened state of fire risk. Citing extended dry weather, warm temperatures, low humidity and high winds, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry recently announced a high risk of wildfires across the state. The department’s regularly updated Fire Situation Report started the week with the state’s preparedness level already at 3 on a 1-5…

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Oh, deer: changing seasons require driving caution

By Brian Brus STILLWATER, Okla. – Drivers need to pay more attention to deer crossing Oklahoma roads while the animals are listening to other instincts this time of year, said Dwayne Elmore, Oklahoma State University Extension wildlife management specialist. Elmore provided some insight and tips for dealing with deer on the move: Oklahoma deer are not migratory, but they do move more within their territories during seasonal changes.When food supplies decrease, deer may explore closer…

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In a La Nina winter, brace for impact

By Gail Ellis  STILLWATER, Okla. – The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration has released its winter outlook for the next few months, and another La Nina weather pattern of warmer and drier conditions is likely to occur in Oklahoma. State Climatologist Gary McManus advised against letting mild predictions fool people into thinking ice, snow and extreme cold won’t happen. Last year’s La Nina winter began with an ice storm in October and ended with a deep freeze in…

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Fighting food insecurity during the holidays

By Brian Brus By Brian Brus STILLWATER, Okla. – Leaning away from the Thanksgiving dinner table with a sigh and stuffed tummy is a comfort beyond the reach of many Oklahomans this year. 4-H’ers across the state are trying to make it a possibility with food drives for community food banks and pantries. “They understand that fighting food insecurity is about being part of something bigger than themselves,” said Karla Knoepfli, Oklahoma State University Extension specialist…

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