Soils across Kansas are still running above 50°F at the 4-inch depth in most locations. It is best to delay application of anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures drop below this threshold. Applying anhydrous ammonia in the fall ahead of the next corn crop has some appeal to producers. For one thing, fall fertilizer application spreads out the workload in the spring. Secondly, wet conditions in the spring sometimes prevents producers from applying lower-cost anhydrous ammonia ahead of corn planting, and forces them to apply more expensive sources after planting. Equally important for many producers have been issues with anhydrous ammonia availability at times in the spring.

Despite those advantages, producers should be aware that there is potential for higher nitrogen (N) loss in the spring following a fall application, as a result of nitrification of the ammonium during late winter and very early spring and subsequent leaching, or denitrification.

Reactions of anhydrous ammonia in the soil - when anhydrous ammonia is applied to the soil, a large portion of the ammonia is converted to ammonium (NH4+), and can be bound to clay and organic matter particles within the soil. As long as the nitrogen remains in the ammonium form, it can be retained on the clay and organic matter, and does not readily move in most soils; except sandy soils where leaching is a concern.

At soil temperatures above freezing, nitrification occurs - ammonium is converted by specific soil microbes into nitrate-N (NO3-). Since this is a microbial reaction, it is very strongly influenced by soil temperatures. The higher the temperature, the quicker the conversion will occur. Depending on soil temperature, pH, and moisture content, it can take 2-3 months or longer to convert all the ammonia applied in the fall to nitrate.

By delaying application until cold weather, most of the applied N can enter the winter as ammonium, and over-winter losses of the applied N will be minimal.

Producers should wait until soil temperatures are less than 50 °F at a depth of 4 inches before applying ammonia in the fall or early winter. Nitrification does not cease below 50 °F, but rather soils will likely become cold enough to limit the nitrification process.

The use of a nitrification inhibitor can help reduce N losses from fall N applications under specific conditions, particularly during periods when soil temperatures warm back up for a period after application.

One should also consider soil physical properties when considering fall application. Fall applications of N for corn should not be made on sandy soils prone to leaching, particularly those over shallow, unprotected aquifers. Rather, fall N applications should focus on deep, medium- to heavy-textured soils where water movement through the profile is slower.

When is nitrogen lost? When considering fall application of N, keep in mind that loss of N during the fall and winter is not normally a problem in Kansas. The conversion of “protected” ammonium to “loss prone” nitrate during the fall and winter can be minimized by waiting to make applications until soils have cooled, and by using products such as nitrification inhibitors. The fact that essentially all the N may remain in the soil as ammonium all winter, coupled with our dry winters, means minimal N is likely to be lost over winter.

However, soils often warm up early in the spring and allow nitrification to get started well before corn planting. Generally, if the wheat is greening up, nitrification has begun! Thus, one of the potential downsides of fall application is that nitrification can begin in early March, and essentially be complete by late May and June.

Summary - if anhydrous ammonia is to be applied in the fall, there are a number of factors that must be considered, including soil texture, temperature, and soil moisture. Consider the following guidelines:

· Do not apply anhydrous ammonia in the fall on sandy soils.

· On silt loam or heavier-textured soils, wait to apply anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures at the 4-inch depth are below 50 °F. Grass covered 2-inch depth typically reaches the 50 mark around the 20th of November in central Kansas. You can expect the 4-inch depth to lag behind that date depending on soil type and earlier if the ground is bare.

· Use a nitrification inhibitor with anhydrous ammonia to help reduce fall nitrification.

· To check the soil temperature in your area, visit the K-State Research and Extension Weather Data Library at: http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Soils across Kansas are still running above 50°F at the 4-inch depth in most locations. It is best to delay application of anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures drop below this threshold. Applying anhydrous ammonia in the fall ahead of the next corn crop has some appeal to producers. For one thing, fall fertilizer application spreads out the workload in the spring. Secondly, wet conditions in the spring sometimes prevents producers from applying lower-cost anhydrous ammonia ahead of corn planting, and forces them to apply more expensive sources after planting. Equally important for many producers have been issues with anhydrous ammonia availability at times in the spring.Despite those advantages, producers should be aware that there is potential for higher nitrogen (N) loss in the spring following a fall application, as a result of nitrification of the ammonium during late winter and very early spring and subsequent leaching, or denitrification.Reactions of anhydrous ammonia in the soil - when anhydrous ammonia is applied to the soil, a large portion of the ammonia is converted to ammonium (NH4+), and can be bound to clay and organic matter particles within the soil. As long as the nitrogen remains in the ammonium form, it can be retained on the clay and organic matter, and does not readily move in most soils; except sandy soils where leaching is a concern.At soil temperatures above freezing, nitrification occurs - ammonium is converted by specific soil microbes into nitrate-N (NO3-). Since this is a microbial reaction, it is very strongly influenced by soil temperatures. The higher the temperature, the quicker the conversion will occur. Depending on soil temperature, pH, and moisture content, it can take 2-3 months or longer to convert all the ammonia applied in the fall to nitrate.By delaying application until cold weather, most of the applied N can enter the winter as ammonium, and over-winter losses of the applied N will be minimal.Producers should wait until soil temperatures are less than 50 °F at a depth of 4 inches before applying ammonia in the fall or early winter. Nitrification does not cease below 50 °F, but rather soils will likely become cold enough to limit the nitrification process.The use of a nitrification inhibitor can help reduce N losses from fall N applications under specific conditions, particularly during periods when soil temperatures warm back up for a period after application.One should also consider soil physical properties when considering fall application. Fall applications of N for corn should not be made on sandy soils prone to leaching, particularly those over shallow, unprotected aquifers. Rather, fall N applications should focus on deep, medium- to heavy-textured soils where water movement through the profile is slower.When is nitrogen lost? When considering fall application of N, keep in mind that loss of N during the fall and winter is not normally a problem in Kansas. The conversion of “protected” ammonium to “loss prone” nitrate during the fall and winter can be minimized by waiting to make applications until soils have cooled, and by using products such as nitrification inhibitors. The fact that essentially all the N may remain in the soil as ammonium all winter, coupled with our dry winters, means minimal N is likely to be lost over winter.However, soils often warm up early in the spring and allow nitrification to get started well before corn planting. Generally, if the wheat is greening up, nitrification has begun! Thus, one of the potential downsides of fall application is that nitrification can begin in early March, and essentially be complete by late May and June.Summary - if anhydrous ammonia is to be applied in the fall, there are a number of factors that must be considered, including soil texture, temperature, and soil moisture. Consider the following guidelines:· Do not apply anhydrous ammonia in the fall on sandy soils.· On silt loam or heavier-textured soils, wait to apply anhydrous ammonia until soil temperatures at the 4-inch depth are below 50 °F. Grass covered 2-inch depth typically reaches the 50 mark around the 20th of November in central Kansas. You can expect the 4-inch depth to lag behind that date depending on soil type and earlier if the ground is bare.· Use a nitrification inhibitor with anhydrous ammonia to help reduce fall nitrification.· To check the soil temperature in your area, visit the K-State Research and Extension Weather Data Library at: http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/soiltemp/

CAMPBELL: Considerations for fall applications of anhydrous ammonia

While we often think of 4-H in terms of events such as the county fair or club days, the formula for youth development as 4-H is so much more!

Like all other Research and Extension information, positive youth development is based on considerable documentation including the research of Lerner and Lerner in the “Comprehensive Findings of 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (Tufts University 2013)” and Brendtro, Brokenleg, and Van Bockern in “Reclaiming Youth at Risk: Our Hope for the Future”, among others.

Based on this research, the WHY for 4-H includes developing a sense of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Each of our activities and events include facets of these. Working on a project helps youth to find and develop skills, work independently as they progress, and learn to share their skills and knowledge with others. A fair entry is the result of project learning and provides feedback for appropriate level of mastery, working independently, and working together for learning and sharing.

Kansas 4-H offers 40 different project areas grouped into STEM and Agriculture, Communication and the Arts, Healthy Living, and Community Vitality which offers leadership and civic engagement. Each of these project areas have research-based curriculum to provide opportunities for learning and growth. Each project area also includes opportunities for youth to practice communication, leadership, and civic engagement skills.

One focus of the 4-H Formula is to have an impact on youth by developing life-long learners with an empathetic and curious view of the world. Another is to develop youth with good communication skills which are crucial no matter your job or career. Providing opportunities to understand how to collaborate with peers and adults in a positive manner is another goal.

One of my favorite goals of the 4-H Formula brings all of these pieces together by developing youth who have the skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities. I often say that 4-H is important to develop the next generation of leaders so that our rural communities don’t just survive but thrive!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>While we often think of 4-H in terms of events such as the county fair or club days, the formula for youth development as 4-H is so much more!Like all other Research and Extension information, positive youth development is based on considerable documentation including the research of Lerner and Lerner in the “Comprehensive Findings of 4-H Study of Positive Youth Development (Tufts University 2013)” and Brendtro, Brokenleg, and Van Bockern in “Reclaiming Youth at Risk: Our Hope for the Future”, among others.Based on this research, the WHY for 4-H includes developing a sense of belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity. Each of our activities and events include facets of these. Working on a project helps youth to find and develop skills, work independently as they progress, and learn to share their skills and knowledge with others. A fair entry is the result of project learning and provides feedback for appropriate level of mastery, working independently, and working together for learning and sharing.Kansas 4-H offers 40 different project areas grouped into STEM and Agriculture, Communication and the Arts, Healthy Living, and Community Vitality which offers leadership and civic engagement. Each of these project areas have research-based curriculum to provide opportunities for learning and growth. Each project area also includes opportunities for youth to practice communication, leadership, and civic engagement skills.One focus of the 4-H Formula is to have an impact on youth by developing life-long learners with an empathetic and curious view of the world. Another is to develop youth with good communication skills which are crucial no matter your job or career. Providing opportunities to understand how to collaborate with peers and adults in a positive manner is another goal.One of my favorite goals of the 4-H Formula brings all of these pieces together by developing youth who have the skills and knowledge to contribute to their communities. I often say that 4-H is important to develop the next generation of leaders so that our rural communities don’t just survive but thrive!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H formula much more than county fairs

By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension District

I am excited about the future here in the Cottonwood Extension District. As I have announced my retirement date of February 3, 2023, it is time to begin the search for a new District Director.

The Cottonwood Extension District Executive Board&nbsp;is looking for an energetic person with managerial and leadership skills to fill the District Director position. The Director serves as the administrative leader of budget and fiscal operations as well as personnel management of local staff&nbsp;of seven agents and several support staff.&nbsp;This position will also have programming responsibilities for community vitality.

The Director&nbsp;will lead the development, implementation and evaluation of research-based educational programming to&nbsp;help our communities become a better place for people in the Cottonwood District to live, work, and play.&nbsp;Programming may include: First Impressions; Kansas PRIDE; community health promotion; leadership development; entrepreneurship; grant writing and management; and local food systems.

The primary office is negotiable between Great Bend and Hays. Applications will be accepted through November 15th. A position description and online application is available at:&nbsp;ksre.ksu.edu/jobs&nbsp;If&nbsp;you or someone you know is interested in this position encourage them to apply.

The Cottonwood District has an exciting future with opportunities to become engaged in community partnerships. Come and make a difference alongside us!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1666964910087.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By DONNA KRUG Cottonwood Extension DistrictI am excited about the future here in the Cottonwood Extension District. As I have announced my retirement date of February 3, 2023, it is time to begin the search for a new District Director.The Cottonwood Extension District Executive Board&nbsp;is looking for an energetic person with managerial and leadership skills to fill the District Director position. The Director serves as the administrative leader of budget and fiscal operations as well as personnel management of local staff&nbsp;of seven agents and several support staff.&nbsp;This position will also have programming responsibilities for community vitality.The Director&nbsp;will lead the development, implementation and evaluation of research-based educational programming to&nbsp;help our communities become a better place for people in the Cottonwood District to live, work, and play.&nbsp;Programming may include: First Impressions; Kansas PRIDE; community health promotion; leadership development; entrepreneurship; grant writing and management; and local food systems.The primary office is negotiable between Great Bend and Hays. Applications will be accepted through November 15th. A position description and online application is available at:&nbsp;ksre.ksu.edu/jobs&nbsp;If&nbsp;you or someone you know is interested in this position encourage them to apply.The Cottonwood District has an exciting future with opportunities to become engaged in community partnerships. Come and make a difference alongside us!

District Director sought for Cottonwood Extension

Halloween was always a fun time of the year for my family because one of my children was born early on a Halloween morning. I just barely got the October baby I wanted! Below are some helpful tips for keeping children of all ages healthy and safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests the following tips:

Costumes · Plan costumes that are bright, reflective, and flame resistant. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

· Make sure that shoes and hats fit well, and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flame and hats don’t cover the eyes, blocking vision. · Consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives to masks.

· Avoid any sharp or long swords, canes, or sticks as a costume accessory. Your child can easily be hurt by these accessories if he or she stumbles or trips. · Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional.

Pumpkins · Never allow small children to carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting, using small knives to prevent injury.

· Consider using a flashlight or glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin. If you do use a candle, a votive candle is safest.

· Do not place candlelit pumpkins on a porch or any path where visitors may pass close by and do not leave them unattended.

On the trick-or-treat trail · Reduce pedestrian injury―the most common injury to children on Halloween.

o Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.

o Use well-lit streets and the sidewalk as well as marked crosswalks.

o If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.

o Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways.

o Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!

Healthy Halloween · Give your child a balanced meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating; this will discourage filling up on Halloween treats.

· Consider offering non-edible goodies. Some suggestions are items such as glow sticks, spider rings, vampire fangs, pencils, bubbles, bouncy balls, finger puppets, whistles, bookmarks, stickers and stencils.

· Keep an eye on what your child has in their mouth at all times. As all parents know, babies and toddlers will put just about anything into their mouths!

· Try to ration treats for the days and weeks following Halloween. Plan together so everyone knows what to expect. It's also a great opportunity to teach your kids about moderation and balance.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Halloween was always a fun time of the year for my family because one of my children was born early on a Halloween morning. I just barely got the October baby I wanted! Below are some helpful tips for keeping children of all ages healthy and safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests the following tips:Costumes · Plan costumes that are bright, reflective, and flame resistant. Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.· Make sure that shoes and hats fit well, and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement, or contact with flame and hats don’t cover the eyes, blocking vision. · Consider non-toxic makeup and decorative hats as safer alternatives to masks.· Avoid any sharp or long swords, canes, or sticks as a costume accessory. Your child can easily be hurt by these accessories if he or she stumbles or trips. · Do not use decorative contact lenses without an eye examination and a prescription from an eye care professional.Pumpkins · Never allow small children to carve pumpkins. Children can draw a face with markers. Then parents can do the cutting, using small knives to prevent injury.· Consider using a flashlight or glow stick instead of a candle to light your pumpkin. If you do use a candle, a votive candle is safest.· Do not place candlelit pumpkins on a porch or any path where visitors may pass close by and do not leave them unattended.On the trick-or-treat trail · Reduce pedestrian injury―the most common injury to children on Halloween.o Stay in a group and communicate where they will be going.o Use well-lit streets and the sidewalk as well as marked crosswalks.o If no sidewalk is available, walk at the far edge of the roadway facing traffic.o Never cut across yards or use alleys.o Never cross between parked cars or out of driveways.o Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will!Healthy Halloween · Give your child a balanced meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating; this will discourage filling up on Halloween treats.· Consider offering non-edible goodies. Some suggestions are items such as glow sticks, spider rings, vampire fangs, pencils, bubbles, bouncy balls, finger puppets, whistles, bookmarks, stickers and stencils.· Keep an eye on what your child has in their mouth at all times. As all parents know, babies and toddlers will put just about anything into their mouths!· Try to ration treats for the days and weeks following Halloween. Plan together so everyone knows what to expect. It's also a great opportunity to teach your kids about moderation and balance.

KOERNER: Halloween health & safety tips

The severe drought has affected most aspects of our lives. Crops are struggling and water is scarce for livestock. In Barton County, is also means that there is little water at Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest inland marsh in the United States and a major resting point for many migratory birds on their way South. So, what happens when the Bottoms has little to no water? Where do the birds go? And when will they come back? How does this effect other wildlife, and subsequent hunting, in the area?

On Nov. 8, starting at 6 PM, join K-State Research and Extension at Cheyenne Bottoms Education Center, located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend, KS for a program over wildlife and the drought. Drew Ricketts, KSRE Wildlife Specialist, will talk about how drought affects the pheasant population and migration patterns of waterfowl. Chip Redmond, assistant meteorologist for the KSU Weather Data Library and manager of the Kansas Mesonet will be showing us the drought patterns and the weather outlook for the next year. We will also have Mike Oldham, Wildlife Refuge Manager at Quivira and Tom Bidrowski from Cheyenne Bottoms on hand to answer questions about the wetlands areas.

There is no fee to attend, but we do need an RSVP for a meal count by Nov. 4. Contact Alicia Boor at aboor@ksu.edu or 620-793-1910, or Wendy Hughes at wshughes@ksu.edu or 620-257-5131. This program is sponsored by Eldridge Fencing, Kansas Trophy Experience, The Original Kansas Trophy Whitetails, and Fowl Plains.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The severe drought has affected most aspects of our lives. Crops are struggling and water is scarce for livestock. In Barton County, is also means that there is little water at Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest inland marsh in the United States and a major resting point for many migratory birds on their way South. So, what happens when the Bottoms has little to no water? Where do the birds go? And when will they come back? How does this effect other wildlife, and subsequent hunting, in the area?On Nov. 8, starting at 6 PM, join K-State Research and Extension at Cheyenne Bottoms Education Center, located at 592 NE K 156 Hwy, Great Bend, KS for a program over wildlife and the drought. Drew Ricketts, KSRE Wildlife Specialist, will talk about how drought affects the pheasant population and migration patterns of waterfowl. Chip Redmond, assistant meteorologist for the KSU Weather Data Library and manager of the Kansas Mesonet will be showing us the drought patterns and the weather outlook for the next year. We will also have Mike Oldham, Wildlife Refuge Manager at Quivira and Tom Bidrowski from Cheyenne Bottoms on hand to answer questions about the wetlands areas.There is no fee to attend, but we do need an RSVP for a meal count by Nov. 4. Contact Alicia Boor at aboor@ksu.edu or 620-793-1910, or Wendy Hughes at wshughes@ksu.edu or 620-257-5131. This program is sponsored by Eldridge Fencing, Kansas Trophy Experience, The Original Kansas Trophy Whitetails, and Fowl Plains.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Drought and wildlife

I fully understand that drought covered a vast majority of Kansas, including Barton County and the surrounding area. But I figured it never hurts to inform farmers of this opportunity. Irrigated soybeans are always an option and sometimes certain areas get an extra rain or two during the growing season that might have made for an above average soybean crop.

The Kansas Soybean Association is calling all soybean farmers in Kansas to enter their competitive soybean crop into the Kansas Soybean Yield Contest by December 1.

New to the 2022 Yield and Value Contests, the Kansas Soybean Association will sponsor three participants to attend Commodity Classic in March 2023. First place in both contests, as well as one randomly drawn participant who entered both contests, earn the trip.

The Kansas Soybean Commission sponsors a monetary prize for the top three finishers in each district, as well as an additional $1,000 for the overall dryland and irrigated winners and any who top the 114.3 bushel-per-acre record. The amounts per district are that first place receives $300, second receives $200, and third receives $100. All participants receive a T-shirt for entering.

Districts are determined by region, tillage method, and irrigation status, with a total of 18 districts in consideration. No-till on the Plains supplies additional awards in the no-till categories. Farmers may enter multiple categories, but only one entry per field.

Eligible fields must consist of at least five contiguous acres as verified by the Farm Service Agency, GPS printout or manual measurement. A non-relative witness, either Kansas State Research and Extension personnel or a specified designee, must be present at harvest and should ensure that the combine grain hopper is empty prior to harvest. Official elevator-scale tickets with moisture percentage and foreign matter included must accompany entries to be considered.

The statewide Kansas Soybean Value Contest that analyzes protein, oil and other soybean qualities is also open for entries. Entrants submit 20-ounce samples, which are evaluated by Ag Processing, Inc. to determine the value. Monetary awards are also given to the three highest-value entries. Farmers may enter both the yield and value contests.

Results of the contests are to be shared January 11, 2023, at the Kansas Soybean Expo in Topeka.

A full guide of contest rules and regulations, as well as the digital entry form, are available at kansassoybeans.org/association/contests/. Questions may be directed to the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) or to local KSRE offices.

Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>I fully understand that drought covered a vast majority of Kansas, including Barton County and the surrounding area. But I figured it never hurts to inform farmers of this opportunity. Irrigated soybeans are always an option and sometimes certain areas get an extra rain or two during the growing season that might have made for an above average soybean crop.The Kansas Soybean Association is calling all soybean farmers in Kansas to enter their competitive soybean crop into the Kansas Soybean Yield Contest by December 1.New to the 2022 Yield and Value Contests, the Kansas Soybean Association will sponsor three participants to attend Commodity Classic in March 2023. First place in both contests, as well as one randomly drawn participant who entered both contests, earn the trip.The Kansas Soybean Commission sponsors a monetary prize for the top three finishers in each district, as well as an additional $1,000 for the overall dryland and irrigated winners and any who top the 114.3 bushel-per-acre record. The amounts per district are that first place receives $300, second receives $200, and third receives $100. All participants receive a T-shirt for entering.Districts are determined by region, tillage method, and irrigation status, with a total of 18 districts in consideration. No-till on the Plains supplies additional awards in the no-till categories. Farmers may enter multiple categories, but only one entry per field.Eligible fields must consist of at least five contiguous acres as verified by the Farm Service Agency, GPS printout or manual measurement. A non-relative witness, either Kansas State Research and Extension personnel or a specified designee, must be present at harvest and should ensure that the combine grain hopper is empty prior to harvest. Official elevator-scale tickets with moisture percentage and foreign matter included must accompany entries to be considered.The statewide Kansas Soybean Value Contest that analyzes protein, oil and other soybean qualities is also open for entries. Entrants submit 20-ounce samples, which are evaluated by Ag Processing, Inc. to determine the value. Monetary awards are also given to the three highest-value entries. Farmers may enter both the yield and value contests.Results of the contests are to be shared January 11, 2023, at the Kansas Soybean Expo in Topeka.A full guide of contest rules and regulations, as well as the digital entry form, are available at kansassoybeans.org/association/contests/. Questions may be directed to the Kansas Soybean office by phone at 877-KS-SOYBEAN (877-577-6923) or to local KSRE offices.Stacy Campbell is a Crop Production Extension agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or by calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: 2022 Kansas soybean yield and value contests

We all have stress. Did you know there are different kinds of stress? There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be. It is typically short term and subsides after the event. There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. This is called chronic or toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed and affect their bodily systems.

Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors. This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.

Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. What do you enjoy doing? Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy or makes you laugh. Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.

If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all have stress. Did you know there are different kinds of stress? There are good kinds of stress that help us meet deadlines or get where we need to be. It is typically short term and subsides after the event. There is also stress that lasts for long periods of time or is severe, such as a divorce or a move. This is called chronic or toxic stress. Toxic stress can affect not only our mental health but also our physical health because that stress response stays elevated and wears out the body. This may leave a person feeling overwhelmed and affect their bodily systems.Stress management starts with identifying the sources of life’s stressors. This may not be as easy as it sounds as sometimes the sources of stress may not be so obvious. For example, it might be your time management that causes stress—NOT the demands of your duty! To identify true sources of stress, it is important to look at your habits, attitude and excuses. Then, ask yourself: Can I eliminate the source of my stress? What are some healthier methods of managing and coping with my stress? You can either change your reaction or change the situation. In addition to a take-charge approach and positive attitude, you can reduce stress by nurturing yourself with a healthy lifestyle and by making time for fun and relaxation. This will help you be in a better place when life’s stressors come knocking.Taking time for yourself and doing something you enjoy everyday can also be important in not only stress reduction but just taking care of yourself both mentally and physically. What do you enjoy doing? Some people enjoy taking a walk every day. Some people may find any form of exercise a stress reliever. Other people may find that doing some sort of art or craft relaxing. The important thing is finding something that works for you and makes you feel happy or makes you laugh. Laughing can be a huge stress reliever.If you would like more information on stress relief, feel free to contact the office to obtain the fact sheet on Stress Management.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Different kinds of stress

Knowing the soil nutrients is a requirement to establish an adequate soil fertility program for forages. Soil testing can be done in either spring or fall on hayfields and pastures. Given a choice, fall would be the preferred time because it allows more time for any needed lime applications to have an effect before the main growing season begins, and it gives the producer some flexibility for planning nutrient applications.&nbsp;

Soil sampling is typically recommended at least every 3-4 years, but more frequent sampling (every 2 years) can keep you from applying excessive and unnecessary amounts of fertilizer or manure, and can increase yields by revealing exactly which soil nutrients are too low for optimum productivity, this is particularly important given the high fertilizer prices.&nbsp;

Tips for collecting a representative soil sample&nbsp; It is best to use a soil probe to take accurate soil samples. You can borrow a probe from many county extension or NRCS offices. A shovel or spade can be used, but make sure to dig a hole first and then take a nice, even slice to the correct depth. A shovel or spade that angles to a point at the bottom can easily result in misleading soil test results because the sample is biased by having more soil from the surface and less from lower depths.&nbsp;

When taking soil samples, it is important to have a representative composite soil sample from the field by combining several soil cores (in a clean container, avoiding contamination) and mixing thoroughly. Ideally, one composite soil sample should represent a uniform and treatable area, not exceed 40 acres, and for more variable fields, no more than 10 acres. On these areas, take 15 to 20 cores or subsamples to make up your representative composite sample. If the field has areas where different forages or crops have been grown or has different soil types, then soil sampling from these areas should be done separately.&nbsp;

Sampling depth for pastures and hayfields should be 3 to 4 inches for pH evaluation. For phosphorus and potassium, a 6-inch depth is preferred when submitting samples to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/soil-testing-lab/" target="_blank">K-State Soil Testing Laboratory</a>&nbsp;since that is the depth we have used to calibrate recommendations.&nbsp;

For more information on soil sampling and submitting samples to the K-State Soil Testing Laboratory, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/" target="_blank">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/</a>. &nbsp;

&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Knowing the soil nutrients is a requirement to establish an adequate soil fertility program for forages. Soil testing can be done in either spring or fall on hayfields and pastures. Given a choice, fall would be the preferred time because it allows more time for any needed lime applications to have an effect before the main growing season begins, and it gives the producer some flexibility for planning nutrient applications.&nbsp;Soil sampling is typically recommended at least every 3-4 years, but more frequent sampling (every 2 years) can keep you from applying excessive and unnecessary amounts of fertilizer or manure, and can increase yields by revealing exactly which soil nutrients are too low for optimum productivity, this is particularly important given the high fertilizer prices.&nbsp;Tips for collecting a representative soil sample&nbsp; It is best to use a soil probe to take accurate soil samples. You can borrow a probe from many county extension or NRCS offices. A shovel or spade can be used, but make sure to dig a hole first and then take a nice, even slice to the correct depth. A shovel or spade that angles to a point at the bottom can easily result in misleading soil test results because the sample is biased by having more soil from the surface and less from lower depths.&nbsp;When taking soil samples, it is important to have a representative composite soil sample from the field by combining several soil cores (in a clean container, avoiding contamination) and mixing thoroughly. Ideally, one composite soil sample should represent a uniform and treatable area, not exceed 40 acres, and for more variable fields, no more than 10 acres. On these areas, take 15 to 20 cores or subsamples to make up your representative composite sample. If the field has areas where different forages or crops have been grown or has different soil types, then soil sampling from these areas should be done separately.&nbsp;Sampling depth for pastures and hayfields should be 3 to 4 inches for pH evaluation. For phosphorus and potassium, a 6-inch depth is preferred when submitting samples to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/outreach-and-services/soil-testing-lab/" target="_blank">K-State Soil Testing Laboratory</a>&nbsp;since that is the depth we have used to calibrate recommendations.&nbsp;For more information on soil sampling and submitting samples to the K-State Soil Testing Laboratory, visit their website at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/" target="_blank">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/services/soiltesting/</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Soil sampling pastures

Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hours of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. This challenge encourages 4-H clubs and families to see how many hours of community service can be completed across the state during the second weekend of National 4-H Week.

Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families took on several projects last weekend and watching their teamwork to serve others is heartwarming! A large group gathered at the Cottonwood Extension Office to bake cookies, complete with hand-drawn Thank You cards, to local police and fire departments, city offices, and our Barton County Dispatch office. From the parents who guided small helpers with rolling cookie dough or managing the hot pans to the guys who handled the dishes, it was so much fun to hear their laughter and teamwork to do something nice for others.

Another group of great volunteers gathered at the 4-H Educational Buildings to pick up trash, spread a pile of gravel, and complete several general cleanup projects! It was neat to see families jump into action to see what they could help with and how they could accomplish tasks together!

One of our 4-H project areas is Civic Engagement and, while this means learning about how our communities function and can include governmental functions, a big part of this project is learning how each youth can have an impact on their community! Helping young people understand that they can help their communities not just survive but thrive is an exciting part of this project. It reinforces that each of us have a responsibility to help our communities be better and stronger.

How can you set an example of positive community involvement or community service? Be sure you share that experience with a young person in your world

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hours of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. This challenge encourages 4-H clubs and families to see how many hours of community service can be completed across the state during the second weekend of National 4-H Week.Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families took on several projects last weekend and watching their teamwork to serve others is heartwarming! A large group gathered at the Cottonwood Extension Office to bake cookies, complete with hand-drawn Thank You cards, to local police and fire departments, city offices, and our Barton County Dispatch office. From the parents who guided small helpers with rolling cookie dough or managing the hot pans to the guys who handled the dishes, it was so much fun to hear their laughter and teamwork to do something nice for others.Another group of great volunteers gathered at the 4-H Educational Buildings to pick up trash, spread a pile of gravel, and complete several general cleanup projects! It was neat to see families jump into action to see what they could help with and how they could accomplish tasks together!One of our 4-H project areas is Civic Engagement and, while this means learning about how our communities function and can include governmental functions, a big part of this project is learning how each youth can have an impact on their community! Helping young people understand that they can help their communities not just survive but thrive is an exciting part of this project. It reinforces that each of us have a responsibility to help our communities be better and stronger.How can you set an example of positive community involvement or community service? Be sure you share that experience with a young person in your worldKeep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Community service

As we head into fall, some producers are thinking about seeding winter cover crops in fields currently planted to corn. The successful establishment of winter cover crops is influenced by several factors that are discussed in a K-State Research and Extension publication (Planting cereal rye after corn harvest ahead of soybean - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3504.pdf). This article will provide some additional details about cover crop responses to various herbicides. Cover crop response to herbicides will be influenced by a number of factors, including biological and biochemical characteristics of the plant, chemical characteristics of the herbicide, and weather conditions since herbicide application. Table 1 summarizes the response of selected cover crops to selected herbicides. For simplicity, no herbicide premixes are included in the list. The responses are cautious/conservative estimates based on published field research, herbicide labels, and a recent publication from the Take Action campaign. A field bioassay is the most reliable method to determine crop response to potential herbicide residues. Table 1. Likelihood of injury to selected cover crops when planted in the fall after a spring application of selected corn herbicides. Green = injury unlikely; Yellow = injury possible; Red = injury likely.

Information provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As we head into fall, some producers are thinking about seeding winter cover crops in fields currently planted to corn. The successful establishment of winter cover crops is influenced by several factors that are discussed in a K-State Research and Extension publication (Planting cereal rye after corn harvest ahead of soybean - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3504.pdf). This article will provide some additional details about cover crop responses to various herbicides. Cover crop response to herbicides will be influenced by a number of factors, including biological and biochemical characteristics of the plant, chemical characteristics of the herbicide, and weather conditions since herbicide application. Table 1 summarizes the response of selected cover crops to selected herbicides. For simplicity, no herbicide premixes are included in the list. The responses are cautious/conservative estimates based on published field research, herbicide labels, and a recent publication from the Take Action campaign. A field bioassay is the most reliable method to determine crop response to potential herbicide residues. Table 1. Likelihood of injury to selected cover crops when planted in the fall after a spring application of selected corn herbicides. Green = injury unlikely; Yellow = injury possible; Red = injury likely.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665755332410.png" alt="The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current and update use requirements." />
 <figcaption>The use of trade names is for clarity to readers and does not imply endorsement of a particular product, nor does exclusion imply non-approval. Always consult the herbicide label for the most current and update use requirements.</figcaption>
 </figure>Information provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist.

CAMPBELL: Cover crop response to herbicides

I always love the changing of the seasons, especially summer to fall. After the heat of the summer, the cool, crisp mornings and cooler days makes me happy. One of the first signs that I can tell that summer is on its way out is the first leaves on the cottonwood trees starting to turn yellow. The reds and oranges of the maples and oaks quickly follow suite. &nbsp;Although the New England states is the place to view the changing of the seasons, Kansas is no slouch. I found an article this week for you for the Horticulture Department about why trees change the colors they do and how you get the striking colors of fall.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Part of the allure of fall foliage is color variation. There are trees that turn red, purple, yellow, orange and brown.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Specific plant pigments determine individual colors. Foliage derives its normal green color from chlorophyll, the substance that captures the energy of the sun. Other pigments produce fall colors. Reds and purples are caused by anthocyanins, yellows by xanthophylls, and oranges by a combination of carotenes and xanthophylls. Browns are the result of tannins present in the leaf. Most of these substances are present throughout the growing season but are masked by the green color produced by chlorophyll. Anthocyanins are the exception and are produced after the chlorophyll is destroyed in the fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

If you have ever seen pictures of New England in the fall, you have probably wondered why trees in Kansas usually do not color as well. This difference is partly because of the tree species prevalent in New England. Certain oaks and maples naturally produce good color. Coloring also is influenced by the weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Warm, sunny days and cool nights are ideal for good color. The sunny days encourage photosynthesis and, thus, sugar accumulation in the leaves. As fall progresses, each leaf develops an abscission layer at the base of the petiole, or leaf stem, that prevents these sugars from being transported down the trunk to the roots for storage. This high sugar content in the leaves produces more intense colors. Cloudy days and warm nights prevent some of the sugar accumulation in the leaves and results in less vibrant colors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Weather during other parts of the growing season also can have an effect. Heavy rains in the early spring or hot, dry weather during the summer can both have a deleterious effect on fall color.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

The length of time a tree maintains fall color also depends on weather. Reds, yellows and oranges are short-lived when trees undergo frosts and freezes.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>I always love the changing of the seasons, especially summer to fall. After the heat of the summer, the cool, crisp mornings and cooler days makes me happy. One of the first signs that I can tell that summer is on its way out is the first leaves on the cottonwood trees starting to turn yellow. The reds and oranges of the maples and oaks quickly follow suite. &nbsp;Although the New England states is the place to view the changing of the seasons, Kansas is no slouch. I found an article this week for you for the Horticulture Department about why trees change the colors they do and how you get the striking colors of fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;Part of the allure of fall foliage is color variation. There are trees that turn red, purple, yellow, orange and brown.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Specific plant pigments determine individual colors. Foliage derives its normal green color from chlorophyll, the substance that captures the energy of the sun. Other pigments produce fall colors. Reds and purples are caused by anthocyanins, yellows by xanthophylls, and oranges by a combination of carotenes and xanthophylls. Browns are the result of tannins present in the leaf. Most of these substances are present throughout the growing season but are masked by the green color produced by chlorophyll. Anthocyanins are the exception and are produced after the chlorophyll is destroyed in the fall.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; If you have ever seen pictures of New England in the fall, you have probably wondered why trees in Kansas usually do not color as well. This difference is partly because of the tree species prevalent in New England. Certain oaks and maples naturally produce good color. Coloring also is influenced by the weather.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Warm, sunny days and cool nights are ideal for good color. The sunny days encourage photosynthesis and, thus, sugar accumulation in the leaves. As fall progresses, each leaf develops an abscission layer at the base of the petiole, or leaf stem, that prevents these sugars from being transported down the trunk to the roots for storage. This high sugar content in the leaves produces more intense colors. Cloudy days and warm nights prevent some of the sugar accumulation in the leaves and results in less vibrant colors.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Weather during other parts of the growing season also can have an effect. Heavy rains in the early spring or hot, dry weather during the summer can both have a deleterious effect on fall color.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The length of time a tree maintains fall color also depends on weather. Reds, yellows and oranges are short-lived when trees undergo frosts and freezes.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Fall colors

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District Family and Community Wellness agent, Monique Koerner shares information about the Keys to Aging program.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District Family and Community Wellness agent, Monique Koerner shares information about the Keys to Aging program.<div><iframe title="Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=e57j2-12e9112-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div><a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/e72721bf-17fe-43d1-a428-8eb7c32185ff">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood extension district offers tips for healthy aging

We all age. We can’t avoid the inevitable. Aging is individualized and affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? Keys to Embracing Aging is an evidenced based K-State Research and Extension program to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age.

Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.

Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.

Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age. This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.

Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time. If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit. If you are interested in more information please contact me.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>We all age. We can’t avoid the inevitable. Aging is individualized and affects everyone differently. People are living longer today than ever before but how can we age well and maintain as much quality of life as we can? Did you know there has been research done to help us understand what makes aging better? Keys to Embracing Aging is an evidenced based K-State Research and Extension program to help people better understand aging and help people understand important lifestyle choices to help us age.Keys to Embracing Aging introduces 12 healthy behavior practices that encourage optimal aging throughout the life span. The 12 keys of optimal aging include: 1. Positive Attitude 2. Eating Smart and Healthy 3. Physical Activity 4. Brain Activity 5. Social Activity 6. Tuning-in to the times 7. Safety 8. Know Your Health Numbers 9. Stress Management 10. Financial Affairs 11. Sleep 12. Taking Time for You.Aging brings on many changes as a person develops throughout the lifespan. The way in which you take care of yourself through the years both physically and mentally will impact the way in which you age. Many of our lifestyle behaviors and choices are integrated, thus there is a strong association between healthy lifestyles, prevention and longevity.Keys to Embracing Aging is information that can be shared with a wide variety of audiences of any age. This program can be adapted and made fun for people of all ages and professions. For adolescents and young adults, this is a powerful lesson that can reinforce healthy behaviors and lifestyles over time to live longer and healthier lives. Middle aged adults may resonate with the information because they are today’s primary caregivers to aging parents. Middle aged adults are also facing increasing changes and challenges associated with their own aging process. Older adults will benefit because it is never too late to adapt healthy lifestyle behaviors. Groups of different generations may provide for some powerful discussion.Please let me know if you would be interested in having a presentation on any or all of the twelve topics listed above. They can be delivered all together or we can do one or two topics at a time. If individuals are interested we have fact sheets or I am available to visit. If you are interested in more information please contact me.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Keys to embracing aging

written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District

Tar spot of corn, a disease caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis, has been confirmed in Nemaha (9/15) and Doniphan (10/05) counties in Kansas. Through a collaborative effort with K-State County Extension Crop Agents, five fields in Nemaha county and one field in Doniphan county have been confirmed positive for tar spot. Tar spot lesions are black, raised, and have a round/elliptical shape. This pathogen can survive in crop residue. 

Tar Spot was detected in U.S. for the first time in 2015 and has quickly spread through the Midwest. To date, it has been reported in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Kentucky, Iowa, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, Nebraska, and Missouri. To see the map of exactly where found go to https://corn.ipmpipe.org/tarspot/ First observations in our neighboring states, Nebraska and Missouri, were made last season. This disease is favored by mild temperature (60F to 73F), high relative humidity (&gt;75%), and a prolonged leaf wetness period (&gt;7h). Severity of tar spot is dependent on the weather. Irrigated corn may be at particularly high risk for yield or silage loss.

Producers should consider harvesting fields confirmed to have tar spot last to mitigate additional disease spread. Because of this, scouting prior to harvest is critical.

Current management recommendations for this disease:

· Introduce crop rotation (this pathogen survives in corn residue)

· Use fungicides that have active ingredients with more than one mode of action.

Efficacy ratings for fungicides labeled for the control of tar spot can be found at the Crop Protection Network website, link: https://cropprotectionnetwork.s3.amazonaws.com/CPN2011_FungicideEfficacyControlCornDiseases_04_2022-1650470887.pdf

Although it’s too late this season to implement the control strategies mentioned above, now is the critical time to identify fields with tar spot as these locations may be at higher risk for the disease next year. For confirmation of tar spot, please submit samples to the K-State Plant Diagnostic Clinic and enclose a completed sample submission form, Link: https://www.plantpath.k-state.edu/extension/diagnostic-lab/documents/2021_PP_DiseaseLabChecksheet.pdf.pdf

If you have any questions or concerns please contact your local county or district Extension office.

Information provided by Rodrigo Onofre, K-State Extension Row Crop Plant Pathologist.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/10/1665420467336.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension DistrictTar spot of corn, a disease caused by the fungus Phyllachora maydis, has been confirmed in Nemaha (9/15) and Doniphan (10/05) counties in Kansas. Through a collaborative effort with K-State County Extension Crop Agents, five fields in Nemaha county and one field in Doniphan county have been confirmed positive for tar spot. Tar spot lesions are black, raised, and have a round/elliptical shape. This pathogen can survive in crop residue. Tar Spot was detected in U.S. for the first time in 2015 and has quickly spread through the Midwest. To date, it has been reported in Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota, Kentucky, Iowa, Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, Nebraska, and Missouri. To see the map of exactly where found go to https://corn.ipmpipe.org/tarspot/ First observations in our neighboring states, Nebraska and Missouri, were made last season. This disease is favored by mild temperature (60F to 73F), high relative humidity (&gt;75%), and a prolonged leaf wetness period (&gt;7h). Severity of tar spot is dependent on the weather. Irrigated corn may be at particularly high risk for yield or silage loss.Producers should consider harvesting fields confirmed to have tar spot last to mitigate additional disease spread. Because of this, scouting prior to harvest is critical.Current management recommendations for this disease:· Avoid highly susceptible hybrids· Introduce crop rotation (this pathogen survives in corn residue)· Manage irrigation· Use fungicides that have active ingredients with more than one mode of action.Efficacy ratings for fungicides labeled for the control of tar spot can be found at the Crop Protection Network website, link: https://cropprotectionnetwork.s3.amazonaws.com/CPN2011_FungicideEfficacyControlCornDiseases_04_2022-1650470887.pdfAlthough it’s too late this season to implement the control strategies mentioned above, now is the critical time to identify fields with tar spot as these locations may be at higher risk for the disease next year. For confirmation of tar spot, please submit samples to the K-State Plant Diagnostic Clinic and enclose a completed sample submission form, Link: https://www.plantpath.k-state.edu/extension/diagnostic-lab/documents/2021_PP_DiseaseLabChecksheet.pdf.pdfIf you have any questions or concerns please contact your local county or district Extension office.Information provided by Rodrigo Onofre, K-State Extension Row Crop Plant Pathologist.

CAMPBELL: Tar spot of corn - new threat to Kansas corn

As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather! It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.

First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.

While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you mom, may help you stay strong and not give up.

Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>As the calendar turns over to October it reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month and cooler weather! It is very likely that you or someone you know has been affected by breast cancer. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women after skin cancer. Cancer is also one of the leading causes of death in the United States, ranking second only after heart disease. One in every four deaths is due to cancer. While there are a lot of risks for cancer that are outside of our control, such as our genetics, gender, and age, there are many lifestyle choices we can make to reduce risk.First, achieve and maintain a healthy weight. I know! Easier said than done. This is especially important as we get older. Two other choices that can help lower risk for breast cancer, as well as achieve a healthy weight, is to eat a diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and get plenty of exercise. Avoiding alcohol or consuming one drink or less per day will also lower your risk of breast cancer. Sometimes making healthy choices can seem overwhelming, especially when life gets stressful. Start small and build on what you are able to accomplish. Perhaps just pick one thing you would like to change and work on that for a few weeks or months.While breast cancer risk increases as we age and those over age 50 are at increased risk, there are some things that younger women can do in addition to healthy lifestyle choices listed above. Having children and breastfeeding can help protect yourself from breast cancer. When women are pregnant and breastfeeding their hormone levels are different which can reduce risk of breast cancer later on in life. There is a dose response effect as well, the longer you breastfeed, the lower your risk of breast cancer. This may be a real motivation for some women to breastfeed their children or maybe the motivation to keep going when the baby wakes up again in the middle of the night. Remembering that there are benefits for you mom, may help you stay strong and not give up.Here at the Cottonwood Extension District we want to give you the education and tools to help you lead a better, healthier life. We have resources and tools to share with you. We are your partner to a healthier lifestyle.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu.

KOERNER: Breast cancer...lower your risk

As the weather starts to cool down there’s a whole host of critters out there looking for places that might better improve their chances of surviving the winter. These rascals have no qualms about trying to find food and shelter in your house, basement, attic, garage or any available out buildings that there might be. The thing to keep in mind is that you will not keep them all out no matter what you do. But there are a series of steps you can take to reduce the number that do get in!

The first and most important step is exclusion. Even new homes can have little gaps and cracks that invaders can, and will, come through. The older your home gets, the more of those opportunities there are! You can do a lot, to reduce this invasion, simply by going around with a caulking gun or an aerosol can of expanding foam. Check to make sure that doors and windows fit tight, that weather stripping doesn’t show gaps and that door sweeps on the bottom of doors seal tightly.

Wherever utilities or any pipe or wire enters the house, make sure that it is well sealed up. It doesn’t take much of an opening for some of these little insects to stroll in. Look closely from the outside and if possible even from the inside during the day. If you see daylight, figure out why! Older homes with rock or block foundations present a real challenge. Spend time with that caulking gun inside and out. If you can see any gap or crack, get it filled in! All of these efforts will also help to reduce cold windy drafts in the middle of winter!

Spend time in the attic as well. Several species of flies, those dreaded little Asian multi-colored lady beetles and other critters love to overwinter in our attics! Get up there during the day and look for any little glimmer of

daylight. Another trick for attics, crawl spaces, garages or any rooms that are occupied less than four hours per day by people are the No-Pest Strips. These strips are not the sticky fly paper but a thick plastic like strip in a cardboard container that gives off a low-level vapor that is very effective at controlling flying insects and some crawling insects. Hanging one in the attic can greatly reduce the number of flies that show up in the living quarters during the winter.

The next step that you can take, and will be more effective if you have gone through the effort to do all the sealing and caulking. Is to use an insecticide treatment around the exterior foundation. Just about any lawn and garden insecticide is labeled for foundation or nuisance insect treatments. Many products now come as a built-in hose end sprayer. There is no mixing required just hook up to your garden hose, turn on the water and spray. Spray up on the foundation a couple of feet and out away from the foundation a couple of feet. This will only need to be done once in a season. Insects trying to get into the house will pick up the insecticide and even if they do get inside the house, they will soon die.

The last step homeowners can take is to use an indoor insect spray. Most of these come as a ready to use product. Don’t go spraying these all over the house. Focus on baseboard areas, door thresholds and where utilities enter the house. Especially focus on porches and basement areas. In most situations these only need to be done once per season. Taking all of these steps will help reduce the number of fall invaders you see in your home!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As the weather starts to cool down there’s a whole host of critters out there looking for places that might better improve their chances of surviving the winter. These rascals have no qualms about trying to find food and shelter in your house, basement, attic, garage or any available out buildings that there might be. The thing to keep in mind is that you will not keep them all out no matter what you do. But there are a series of steps you can take to reduce the number that do get in!The first and most important step is exclusion. Even new homes can have little gaps and cracks that invaders can, and will, come through. The older your home gets, the more of those opportunities there are! You can do a lot, to reduce this invasion, simply by going around with a caulking gun or an aerosol can of expanding foam. Check to make sure that doors and windows fit tight, that weather stripping doesn’t show gaps and that door sweeps on the bottom of doors seal tightly.Wherever utilities or any pipe or wire enters the house, make sure that it is well sealed up. It doesn’t take much of an opening for some of these little insects to stroll in. Look closely from the outside and if possible even from the inside during the day. If you see daylight, figure out why! Older homes with rock or block foundations present a real challenge. Spend time with that caulking gun inside and out. If you can see any gap or crack, get it filled in! All of these efforts will also help to reduce cold windy drafts in the middle of winter!Spend time in the attic as well. Several species of flies, those dreaded little Asian multi-colored lady beetles and other critters love to overwinter in our attics! Get up there during the day and look for any little glimmer ofdaylight. Another trick for attics, crawl spaces, garages or any rooms that are occupied less than four hours per day by people are the No-Pest Strips. These strips are not the sticky fly paper but a thick plastic like strip in a cardboard container that gives off a low-level vapor that is very effective at controlling flying insects and some crawling insects. Hanging one in the attic can greatly reduce the number of flies that show up in the living quarters during the winter.The next step that you can take, and will be more effective if you have gone through the effort to do all the sealing and caulking. Is to use an insecticide treatment around the exterior foundation. Just about any lawn and garden insecticide is labeled for foundation or nuisance insect treatments. Many products now come as a built-in hose end sprayer. There is no mixing required just hook up to your garden hose, turn on the water and spray. Spray up on the foundation a couple of feet and out away from the foundation a couple of feet. This will only need to be done once in a season. Insects trying to get into the house will pick up the insecticide and even if they do get inside the house, they will soon die.The last step homeowners can take is to use an indoor insect spray. Most of these come as a ready to use product. Don’t go spraying these all over the house. Focus on baseboard areas, door thresholds and where utilities enter the house. Especially focus on porches and basement areas. In most situations these only need to be done once per season. Taking all of these steps will help reduce the number of fall invaders you see in your home!

CAMPBELL: Fall household invaders

Happy Fall! The past few mornings my bike commute has been so enjoyable. The cool crisp air reminds us that fall is here. In our world of Extension, October signals the beginning of a new program year. It is the perfect time to enroll kids in 4-H for the first time or re-enroll members through the online process.

Speaking of 4-H I want to remind you that we are looking for someone to join our team as the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Hays office. You can find more information about the application process on our Cottonwood Extension website. I hope you will share this information with someone who is passionate about working with youth in our area and encourage them to apply.

Since my retirement date is just four short months away, our Cottonwood District Board will be conducting a search for a District Director with community vitality programming responsibilities. That position description and application process will be advertised beginning October 18th with interviews set for early December. The District Director serves as the administrative leader of the Cottonwood District’s budget and fiscal operations; personnel management of local staff; and overall program development and delivery. If you know someone with these skills encourage them to apply.

A couple of weeks ago I highlighted the upcoming open enrollment period for individuals with Medicare coverage. Appointments will be available in both our Great Bend and Hays offices, so just give me a call to set up a time. There is no charge for this service, and it really is a good idea to review your prescription drug plan each year. That way there are fewer surprises after the first of the year.

Another upcoming workshop that I will be leading is a ServSafe class for Food Handlers. This workshop is set for Wednesday, November 2nd, from 1:00 – 4:30 at the Great Bend office meeting room, 3007 10th Street. A $15 registration fee holds your spot and participants will receive an up-to-date manual and refreshments. Whether you are an occasional food handler at your churches’ soup supper, or you work in a food service-related job, this class is excellent. Participants will receive a certificate of completion to share with their employer. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up.

Take a look at all of the upcoming activities in the Cottonwood District in our electronic newsletter on our website and on our FaceBook page and join us when you can!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Happy Fall! The past few mornings my bike commute has been so enjoyable. The cool crisp air reminds us that fall is here. In our world of Extension, October signals the beginning of a new program year. It is the perfect time to enroll kids in 4-H for the first time or re-enroll members through the online process.Speaking of 4-H I want to remind you that we are looking for someone to join our team as the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Hays office. You can find more information about the application process on our Cottonwood Extension website. I hope you will share this information with someone who is passionate about working with youth in our area and encourage them to apply.Since my retirement date is just four short months away, our Cottonwood District Board will be conducting a search for a District Director with community vitality programming responsibilities. That position description and application process will be advertised beginning October 18th with interviews set for early December. The District Director serves as the administrative leader of the Cottonwood District’s budget and fiscal operations; personnel management of local staff; and overall program development and delivery. If you know someone with these skills encourage them to apply.A couple of weeks ago I highlighted the upcoming open enrollment period for individuals with Medicare coverage. Appointments will be available in both our Great Bend and Hays offices, so just give me a call to set up a time. There is no charge for this service, and it really is a good idea to review your prescription drug plan each year. That way there are fewer surprises after the first of the year.Another upcoming workshop that I will be leading is a ServSafe class for Food Handlers. This workshop is set for Wednesday, November 2nd, from 1:00 – 4:30 at the Great Bend office meeting room, 3007 10th Street. A $15 registration fee holds your spot and participants will receive an up-to-date manual and refreshments. Whether you are an occasional food handler at your churches’ soup supper, or you work in a food service-related job, this class is excellent. Participants will receive a certificate of completion to share with their employer. Class size is limited so call our office at (620)793-1910 to sign up.Take a look at all of the upcoming activities in the Cottonwood District in our electronic newsletter on our website and on our FaceBook page and join us when you can!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KRUG: Fall programming in full swing

Management recommendations common to both prussic acid and nitrates include:&nbsp;

If testing before grazing, samples should reflect what the animals are expected to consume, generally leaves and upper portion of the plant. Sample a minimum of 15 sites across a given field. One method is to sample from each corner and the center by walking diagonal lines and sample plants every 50-100 steps or as appropriate for field size.&nbsp;

We expect levels of nitrates and prussic acid to be variable across a field, so more samples are better than less. A rule of thumb is to sample 10 to 20 % of the bales per field or cutting as a minimum. Be aware of areas of the field that exhibited more plant stress than others. If large enough areas, you may want to sample them separately. Your acreage size and feeding methods likely factor into this decision. Use a forage probe that cuts across all plant parts in a bale rather than a grab sample from individual bales or windrows. The Cottonwood extension offices can help with sampling procedures and equipment.&nbsp;

Prussic acid in sorghum following a freeze event&nbsp;

Frost causes plant cells to rupture and prussic acid gas forms in the process. Because the prussic acid is in a gaseous state, it will gradually dissipate as the frosted/frozen tissues dry. Thus, risks are highest when grazing frosted sorghums and sudangrasses that are still green. New growth of sorghum species following frost can be dangerously high in prussic acid due to its young stage of growth. Prussic acid content decreases dramatically during the hay drying process and during ensiling. It is recommended to wait ten days until after a killing freeze before grazing. Sorghum and sudangrass forage that has undergone silage fermentation is generally safe to feed.&nbsp;

For more complete information on these problems see these publications&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/doc/forage/fora13.pdf" target="_blank">Nitrate Toxicity</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/doc/forage/fora14.pdf" target="_blank">Prussic Acid Poisoning</a>,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3607.pdf" target="_blank">Managing the Prussic Acid Hazard in Sorghum</a>. If you have samples with high prussic acid concentrations, and are willing to share information on variety, growth, fertility, and harvest conditions, it will be helpful as we strive to better understand this issue.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Management recommendations common to both prussic acid and nitrates include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Test first, don’t gamble. Keep in mind, different labs use different tests that have different scales.&nbsp;</li><li>Feed animals with a known safe feedstuff(s) and have them full before introduction to potentially problematic feeds. Don’t turn in hungry.&nbsp;</li><li>Ensiling will reduce concentrations of either by 40-60% in well-made silage, but silage put up under less-than-optimal conditions could still contain very high levels. If extremely high before ensiling, a 50% reduction may not be enough to result in safe feed.&nbsp;</li><li>Dhurrin concentrates in the upper portion of the plant and with more plant growth (&gt;24”), concentration levels may be diluted if measuring the whole plant.&nbsp;</li><li>Nitrate concentrates in the base of the plant and is least in head and leaves, grazing or cutting high can reduce nitrate levels in the forage.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not harvest drought stressed forage within 7 to 14 days after good rainfall to reduce the levels of accumulated nitrates.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>If testing before grazing, samples should reflect what the animals are expected to consume, generally leaves and upper portion of the plant. Sample a minimum of 15 sites across a given field. One method is to sample from each corner and the center by walking diagonal lines and sample plants every 50-100 steps or as appropriate for field size.&nbsp;We expect levels of nitrates and prussic acid to be variable across a field, so more samples are better than less. A rule of thumb is to sample 10 to 20 % of the bales per field or cutting as a minimum. Be aware of areas of the field that exhibited more plant stress than others. If large enough areas, you may want to sample them separately. Your acreage size and feeding methods likely factor into this decision. Use a forage probe that cuts across all plant parts in a bale rather than a grab sample from individual bales or windrows. The Cottonwood extension offices can help with sampling procedures and equipment.&nbsp;Prussic acid in sorghum following a freeze event&nbsp;Frost causes plant cells to rupture and prussic acid gas forms in the process. Because the prussic acid is in a gaseous state, it will gradually dissipate as the frosted/frozen tissues dry. Thus, risks are highest when grazing frosted sorghums and sudangrasses that are still green. New growth of sorghum species following frost can be dangerously high in prussic acid due to its young stage of growth. Prussic acid content decreases dramatically during the hay drying process and during ensiling. It is recommended to wait ten days until after a killing freeze before grazing. Sorghum and sudangrass forage that has undergone silage fermentation is generally safe to feed.&nbsp;For more complete information on these problems see these publications&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/doc/forage/fora13.pdf" target="_blank">Nitrate Toxicity</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/doc/forage/fora14.pdf" target="_blank">Prussic Acid Poisoning</a>,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3607.pdf" target="_blank">Managing the Prussic Acid Hazard in Sorghum</a>. If you have samples with high prussic acid concentrations, and are willing to share information on variety, growth, fertility, and harvest conditions, it will be helpful as we strive to better understand this issue.&nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Part two on nitrate and prussic acid poisoning

October 2-8 is an exciting time as 4-H families across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week! Per the National 4-H website, 4-H was established as Youth Clubs in 1902 with agricultural after-school clubs focused on particular ag products such as tomatoes or corn. In 1912, these groups were referred to as 4-H Clubs in recognition of the clover pin developed in 1910. The passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System at USDA and nationalized 4-H. By 1914, 4-H Clubs were formed and the clover emblem was adopted. The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the USDA, more than 100 land-grant universities and more than 3000 county offices across the nation, including all 105 counties in Kansas. Cooperative Extension combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to meet the need for research, knowledge, and educational programs. In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.

On September 28, I was joined by two of our 4-H Ambassadors, Ailey Williams, and Parker Dicks, to address the Barton County Commission. We were delighted with Proclamation 2022-15 which states “4-H, as delivered by Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. By declaring October 2-8, 2022, as national 4-H Week, the Commission will encourage all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.”

If you know of a young person who would benefit from the opportunities of 4-H, enrollment for the new year began October 1! The Cottonwood Extension District offers eight community clubs and over 40 project areas from Art to Woodworking for youth to explore, learn, and grow. More information can be found at our website cottonwood.k-state.edu or by calling one of our offices.

If you happen to be in our Ellis County area, 4-H members will have several displays around the county and they are hosting a 4-H coloring page contest for local second grade students!

Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hrs of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families will meet at the Barton County Historical Society on Sunday, Oct. 9 to clean up and handle whatever projects are needed. Previous projects have included clean up at Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo and the 4-H Educational grounds. Many individual clubs will take on separate projects in their town. Teaching youth the value of giving back to their communities helps all communities be stronger and to develop the leaders needed to not just survive but to thrive!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579114162620.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>October 2-8 is an exciting time as 4-H families across the nation celebrate National 4-H Week! Per the National 4-H website, 4-H was established as Youth Clubs in 1902 with agricultural after-school clubs focused on particular ag products such as tomatoes or corn. In 1912, these groups were referred to as 4-H Clubs in recognition of the clover pin developed in 1910. The passage of the Smith-Lever Act in 1914 created the Cooperative Extension System at USDA and nationalized 4-H. By 1914, 4-H Clubs were formed and the clover emblem was adopted. The Cooperative Extension System is a partnership of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture within the USDA, more than 100 land-grant universities and more than 3000 county offices across the nation, including all 105 counties in Kansas. Cooperative Extension combines the expertise and resources of federal, state, and local governments to meet the need for research, knowledge, and educational programs. In 4-H, we believe in the power of young people. We see that every child has valuable strengths and real influence to improve the world around us.On September 28, I was joined by two of our 4-H Ambassadors, Ailey Williams, and Parker Dicks, to address the Barton County Commission. We were delighted with Proclamation 2022-15 which states “4-H, as delivered by Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs, and visionaries. By declaring October 2-8, 2022, as national 4-H Week, the Commission will encourage all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.”If you know of a young person who would benefit from the opportunities of 4-H, enrollment for the new year began October 1! The Cottonwood Extension District offers eight community clubs and over 40 project areas from Art to Woodworking for youth to explore, learn, and grow. More information can be found at our website cottonwood.k-state.edu or by calling one of our offices.If you happen to be in our Ellis County area, 4-H members will have several displays around the county and they are hosting a 4-H coloring page contest for local second grade students!Community service and citizenship are hallmarks of the 4-H program! 48Hrs of 4-H is a state-wide service challenge. Cottonwood-Barton 4-H families will meet at the Barton County Historical Society on Sunday, Oct. 9 to clean up and handle whatever projects are needed. Previous projects have included clean up at Great Bend-Brit Spaugh Zoo and the 4-H Educational grounds. Many individual clubs will take on separate projects in their town. Teaching youth the value of giving back to their communities helps all communities be stronger and to develop the leaders needed to not just survive but to thrive!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.

BERAN: 4-H enrollment time

I still remember the nurses and staff lining the hallways of the Houston hospital as my husband and I were leaving with our two-day old daughter. Now, years later, the words they said, “Your lives will never be the same,” still come to mind. Babies don’t come with instructions, but wonderful support from family and friends helped us through those first months.

The joys of parenthood far outweigh the challenges; at least I feel that way. Even though we made some mistakes along the way, we always tried to set a positive example for our three children and now our grandchildren. A favorite Ann Landers column I clipped and saved from many years ago still rings true today.

The information in her column actually comes from fourth graders. That’s right; eight- or nine-year-old kids giving advice to parents on how to raise children. The honesty of the children is refreshing. Here are a few of their suggestions:

· Don’t give me everything I ask for. Sometimes, I am just testing you to see how much I can get.

· Keep promises, both good and bad. If you promise a reward, make sure you give it to me. If you promise a punishment, make sure I get that too.

· Don’t compare me with anybody else, especially if the comparison will hurt somebody’s feelings.

· Let me do as much for myself as I can. That is how I learn. If you do everything for me, I will never be able to anything for myself.

· Don’t scream at me. It makes me scream back, and I don’t want to be a screamer. Screamers sound awful.

· Don’t tell lies in front of me or ask me to tell lies to help you out. It makes me think less of you and of myself.

· When you are wrong about something, admit it. It will not hurt my opinion of you. It will make it easier for me to admit it when I am wrong.

I have several copies of an excellent parenting curriculum that I would be happy to share with interested families. The Responsive Discipline toolbox includes 49 tools that focus on prevention, guidance, and consequences. There is a small charge of $3 for the toolbox and quantities are limited. Call me today at the Great Bend office and I’ll be happy to share.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>I still remember the nurses and staff lining the hallways of the Houston hospital as my husband and I were leaving with our two-day old daughter. Now, years later, the words they said, “Your lives will never be the same,” still come to mind. Babies don’t come with instructions, but wonderful support from family and friends helped us through those first months.The joys of parenthood far outweigh the challenges; at least I feel that way. Even though we made some mistakes along the way, we always tried to set a positive example for our three children and now our grandchildren. A favorite Ann Landers column I clipped and saved from many years ago still rings true today.The information in her column actually comes from fourth graders. That’s right; eight- or nine-year-old kids giving advice to parents on how to raise children. The honesty of the children is refreshing. Here are a few of their suggestions:· Don’t give me everything I ask for. Sometimes, I am just testing you to see how much I can get.· Keep promises, both good and bad. If you promise a reward, make sure you give it to me. If you promise a punishment, make sure I get that too.· Don’t compare me with anybody else, especially if the comparison will hurt somebody’s feelings.· Let me do as much for myself as I can. That is how I learn. If you do everything for me, I will never be able to anything for myself.· Don’t scream at me. It makes me scream back, and I don’t want to be a screamer. Screamers sound awful.· Don’t tell lies in front of me or ask me to tell lies to help you out. It makes me think less of you and of myself.· When you are wrong about something, admit it. It will not hurt my opinion of you. It will make it easier for me to admit it when I am wrong.I have several copies of an excellent parenting curriculum that I would be happy to share with interested families. The Responsive Discipline toolbox includes 49 tools that focus on prevention, guidance, and consequences. There is a small charge of $3 for the toolbox and quantities are limited. Call me today at the Great Bend office and I’ll be happy to share.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Joys of parenthood outweigh the challenges

Action from the Wednesday, September 28, 2022, Barton County Commission agenda meeting:

APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS:   -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of September 14, 2022, and ending September 28, 2022. 

 OLD BUSINESS - RESOLUTION 2022-22:  A Resolution Concerning the Involvement of Sitting Barton County Commissioners on Area Boards and Committees:  -This item was tabled.

NEW BUSINESS - PROCLAMATION 2022-15: National 4-H Week: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Michelle Beran, Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County, was joined by area youth in presenting the proposed Proclamation. 4-H, as delivered by area Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries. By declaring October 2 – 8, 2022, as National 4-H Week, the Commission encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime.

  RESOLUTION 2022-22:  Application for Zoning Amendment for a Described Tract of Land:  -Judy Goreham, Environmental Manager, provided details.  The Barton County Planning Commission received a Zoning Amendment Application from the Alan and Kathleen Hoffman Revocable Trust for an 0.8 acre +/- tract of land to be rezoned.  Being part of a larger tract located in the NE/4, Section 20, Township 17 South, Range 13 West, the ground is currently classified as Agricultural.  The application calls for the tract to be rezoned to Light Manufacturing Service Commercial District so that a shop can be built for V’s Workshop.  With the Resolution, the business will be relocated to this location where the family is also building a new home. 

SOLID WASTE: Repair of the Caterpillar 615C II Scraper: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, provided details. The Barton County Landfill operates a Caterpillar 615C II Scraper that is used to move dirt to various places on site for essential tasks such as waste cover and building roads, berms and evaporation ponds. In June, the crank shaft dampner/pulley came off. Foley Equipment made the necessary repairs. In conjunction with the crank shaft repair, the gasket on the hydraulic tank was replaced. The Commission approved Foley Equipment making such needed repairs at $30,016.33.

SOLID WASTE: Hoisington Gun Club Improvement Project at Cheyenne Bottoms: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Hamby provided details. The Hoisington Gun Club is developing a project at Cheyenne Bottoms. As a part of the project, the club has hired Prosser Dirt to excavate. The Barton County Landfill has agreed to accept dirt from the excavation at the rate of $120.00 per load. Dirt is needed at the Landfill to provide intermediate/final cover and for other construction projects. Continuation of the project is approved. D

ISTRICT CORONER:  Appointment of Deputy Coroner:  -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details.  Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed as District Coroner effective November 1, 2020.   The Commission approved Dr. Logan Shetlar being appointed as a Deputy District Coroner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619714703743.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Action from the Wednesday, September 28, 2022, Barton County Commission agenda meeting:APPROVAL OF APPROPRIATIONS: -An Accounts Payable Register was approved for the period of September 14, 2022, and ending September 28, 2022. OLD BUSINESS - RESOLUTION 2022-22: A Resolution Concerning the Involvement of Sitting Barton County Commissioners on Area Boards and Committees: -This item was tabled.NEW BUSINESS - PROCLAMATION 2022-15: National 4-H Week: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Michelle Beran, Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County, was joined by area youth in presenting the proposed Proclamation. 4-H, as delivered by area Cooperative Extension agencies, has helped thousands of youth become true leaders, entrepreneurs and visionaries. By declaring October 2 – 8, 2022, as National 4-H Week, the Commission encourages all citizens to recognize 4-H for the significant impact it makes by empowering youth with the skills they need to lead for a lifetime. RESOLUTION 2022-22: Application for Zoning Amendment for a Described Tract of Land: -Judy Goreham, Environmental Manager, provided details. The Barton County Planning Commission received a Zoning Amendment Application from the Alan and Kathleen Hoffman Revocable Trust for an 0.8 acre +/- tract of land to be rezoned. Being part of a larger tract located in the NE/4, Section 20, Township 17 South, Range 13 West, the ground is currently classified as Agricultural. The application calls for the tract to be rezoned to Light Manufacturing Service Commercial District so that a shop can be built for V’s Workshop. With the Resolution, the business will be relocated to this location where the family is also building a new home. SOLID WASTE: Repair of the Caterpillar 615C II Scraper: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Jennifer Hamby, Solid Waste Director, provided details. The Barton County Landfill operates a Caterpillar 615C II Scraper that is used to move dirt to various places on site for essential tasks such as waste cover and building roads, berms and evaporation ponds. In June, the crank shaft dampner/pulley came off. Foley Equipment made the necessary repairs. In conjunction with the crank shaft repair, the gasket on the hydraulic tank was replaced. The Commission approved Foley Equipment making such needed repairs at $30,016.33. SOLID WASTE: Hoisington Gun Club Improvement Project at Cheyenne Bottoms: &nbsp; &nbsp;-Ms. Hamby provided details. The Hoisington Gun Club is developing a project at Cheyenne Bottoms. As a part of the project, the club has hired Prosser Dirt to excavate. The Barton County Landfill has agreed to accept dirt from the excavation at the rate of $120.00 per load. Dirt is needed at the Landfill to provide intermediate/final cover and for other construction projects. Continuation of the project is approved. DISTRICT CORONER: Appointment of Deputy Coroner: -Matt Patzner, Director of Operations, will provide details. Dr. Patrick Stiles was appointed as District Coroner effective November 1, 2020. The Commission approved Dr. Logan Shetlar being appointed as a Deputy District Coroner.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Action from the Barton County Commission meeting (9/28)

September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.

Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.

Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.

Finally, step four is to chill leftovers quickly as possibly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1658934620122.png" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>September is National Food Safety Education month. Every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 6 people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized and 3,000 die from eating contaminated food. Getting sick is never fun and is usually quite an inconvenience. What can you do at home to help prevent getting sick? The Partnership for Food Safety Education breaks it down into four easy steps: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.The first step is clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. We have heard it so many times but washing hands really does cut down on all types of illnesses including foodborne illnesses. Keep counter tops and other kitchen surfaces clean. How often do you clean out your refrigerator? Yep, that needs to be cleaned regularly also! After wiping the dirt off countertops, surfaces should be sanitized with a solution of one tablespoon bleach and one gallon of water. Cutting boards should also be washed in between preparing each food. Also remember to wash your produce under running water before eating or peeling them to prevent the spread of bacteria.Step two is to separate. Be careful not to cross-contaminate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood and eggs from other foods in your grocery cart, grocery bags, and refrigerator. Use different cutting boards and utensils for each type of food and never place cooked food on a plate that had raw meat on it. If you marinate foods be sure and boil the marinade before using it on cooked foods.Step three is to cook meats to an internal temperature of at least 145 degrees and 160 degrees for ground meat where contamination is more likely. Poultry should be cooked to 165 degrees. Color is not a reliable indicator. Use a food thermometer that has been properly calibrated. Check the thickest part of the meat. Raw eggs can be a source of contamination. When using a microwave to heat up foods again use your food thermometer to check the temperature.Finally, step four is to chill leftovers quickly as possibly to prevent the growth of bacteria. Keep the refrigerator at 40 degrees or less. Do not let foods set at room temperature for more than two hours. Do not thaw food at room temperature. To thaw foods, use one of three methods: in the refrigerator, in cold water, or in the microwave. Cook food immediately when defrosting in water or the microwave.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.