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.

<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.

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 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!

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>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.

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.

<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.

KOERNER: National Food Safety Education Month

Many Kansas cattle operations rely on some type of harvested feed to use in the winter months and common among those sources is forage sorghum, millets, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudan. Forages in the sorghum family are prone to two different problems for feeding cattle, nitrate poisoning and prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid, HCN) poisoning. Millet (proso and pearl) do not contain prussic acid but can have nitrates. Prussic acid and nitrate poisoning are easy to get confused because both result in a lack of oxygen availability to the animal and are more likely to occur when the plant is stressed (fertility, hail, drought).

Table 1. Key characteristics of nitrate and prussic acid poisoning.

In dry areas of the state, cattle may be removed from pasture early. Bringing hungry cattle into pens with weeds can be very dangerous as the nitrate concentration may be elevated throughout the plant and animal intake high. Manure in corrals can contribute to the elevation of nitrates in the weeds. Elevated nitrates may not result in death but could cause abortions.

The current KSU forage fact sheet on prussic acid poisoning indicates that prussic acid potential dissipates as the forage dries. Additionally, hay or silage that likely contained high cyanide concentrations at harvest should be analyzed before it is fed. This second statement is often forgotten and it’s assumed that when the plant dries, all the cells are ruptured and any HCN is released. To confirm this, we measured dhurrin content in sorghum hay. The dhurrin content was stable from 1 to 10 weeks of dry storage. In the plant, dhurrin (the precursor to HCN in sorghum species) and the enzyme that converts it to cyanide, are stored in separate compartments within the cell. When the plant is eaten, the compartments are ruptured, and the cyanide formed and released. While the enzyme that converts dhurrin to cyanide is inactivated with drying, rumen enzymes can make the same conversion after consumption. If hay is made from forages in the sorghum family or other susceptible species, testing for prussic acid in forage that has suffered from drought, hail or fertility issues is advised. The frequency of issues with prussic acid in harvested forages may be relatively low, however, testing is cheap compared to the cost of losing even one animal.

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>Many Kansas cattle operations rely on some type of harvested feed to use in the winter months and common among those sources is forage sorghum, millets, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudan. Forages in the sorghum family are prone to two different problems for feeding cattle, nitrate poisoning and prussic acid (hydrocyanic acid, HCN) poisoning. Millet (proso and pearl) do not contain prussic acid but can have nitrates. Prussic acid and nitrate poisoning are easy to get confused because both result in a lack of oxygen availability to the animal and are more likely to occur when the plant is stressed (fertility, hail, drought).Table 1. Key characteristics of nitrate and prussic acid poisoning.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/9/1664286422853.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In dry areas of the state, cattle may be removed from pasture early. Bringing hungry cattle into pens with weeds can be very dangerous as the nitrate concentration may be elevated throughout the plant and animal intake high. Manure in corrals can contribute to the elevation of nitrates in the weeds. Elevated nitrates may not result in death but could cause abortions.The current KSU forage fact sheet on prussic acid poisoning indicates that prussic acid potential dissipates as the forage dries. Additionally, hay or silage that likely contained high cyanide concentrations at harvest should be analyzed before it is fed. This second statement is often forgotten and it’s assumed that when the plant dries, all the cells are ruptured and any HCN is released. To confirm this, we measured dhurrin content in sorghum hay. The dhurrin content was stable from 1 to 10 weeks of dry storage. In the plant, dhurrin (the precursor to HCN in sorghum species) and the enzyme that converts it to cyanide, are stored in separate compartments within the cell. When the plant is eaten, the compartments are ruptured, and the cyanide formed and released. While the enzyme that converts dhurrin to cyanide is inactivated with drying, rumen enzymes can make the same conversion after consumption. If hay is made from forages in the sorghum family or other susceptible species, testing for prussic acid in forage that has suffered from drought, hail or fertility issues is advised. The frequency of issues with prussic acid in harvested forages may be relatively low, however, testing is cheap compared to the cost of losing even one animal.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: Nitrate and prussic acid poisoning

It is important to check corn and sorghum fields for stalk rot diseases prior to harvest. The two most common types of stalk rot in grain sorghum and corn are charcoal rot and Fusarium stalk rot. Both diseases are known to survive in crop residue and can survive in the soil for many years. Stalk rots have somewhat similar symptoms so it is useful to be able to tell them apart.

Even in fields where lodging has not yet occurred, producers should be prepared to deal with stalk rot issues, especially in drier years. Stalk rot can be more problematic in sorghum than in corn due to generally thinner stalks in sorghum.

Annual losses are difficult to determine because, unless lodging occurs, the disease mostly goes unnoticed. The best estimates are that at least 5 percent of the sorghum crop is lost each year to stalk rot. The incidence of stalk rot in individual fields may reach 90 to 100 percent, with yield losses of 50 percent.

Symptoms generally appear several weeks after pollination when the plant appears to prematurely ripen. The leaves become dry, taking on a grayish-green appearance similar to frost injury. The stalk usually dies a few weeks later. Diseased stalks can be easily crushed when squeezed between the thumb and finger and are more susceptible to lodging during wind or rainstorms. The most characteristic symptom of stalk rot is the shredding of the internal tissue in the lowest internodes of the stalk, which can be observed when the stalk is split. This shredded tissue may be tan colored (Fusarium stalk rots); red or salmon, (Fusarium and Gibberella stalk rots); or grayish-black (charcoal rot).

General considerations - stalk rot is a stress-related disease. Any stress on a crop can increase both the incidence and severity of stalk rot. Research has indicated that when the carbohydrates used to fill the grain become unavailable due to nutrient shortage, drought stress, leaf damage from insects, hail, disease or reduced sunlight, the plant uses nitrogen and carbohydrate reserves stored in the stalk to complete grain fill.

Other than irrigation or rain, there is little that can be done to prevent stalk rot by late summer. No hybrid has complete immunity to the stalk rotting pathogens. When choosing a hybrid, a grower should select a hybrid that is not only a high yielder, but one that has good standability and “stay-green” characteristics. This will help assure that if stalk rot does occur, losses due to lodging can be reduced. A balanced nutrition program based on soil tests should be used. Overall fertility levels should be adjusted to fit the hybrid, plant population, soil type, environmental conditions and management program. An excess, as well as a shortage, of nitrogen can lead to increased stalk rot problems.

Producers can check their sorghum for stalk rots by squeezing the lower stem with their thumb and fingers. If the stalks crush easily, they are probably infected with one of the stalk rot organisms and may lodge at any time. Check 100 plants across the field to determine the percent of affected plants. If the percentage of stalk-rot-infected plants is high, sorghum should be harvested as soon as possible, even if it hasn’t dried down adequately in the field. If the stalks are firm, the plants will probably be able to stand just fine in the field for several more weeks.

For more information, see “Stalk Rots of Corn and Sorghum,” K-State publication L-741, at: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="&nbsp; written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District " />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District </figcaption>
 </figure>It is important to check corn and sorghum fields for stalk rot diseases prior to harvest. The two most common types of stalk rot in grain sorghum and corn are charcoal rot and Fusarium stalk rot. Both diseases are known to survive in crop residue and can survive in the soil for many years. Stalk rots have somewhat similar symptoms so it is useful to be able to tell them apart.Even in fields where lodging has not yet occurred, producers should be prepared to deal with stalk rot issues, especially in drier years. Stalk rot can be more problematic in sorghum than in corn due to generally thinner stalks in sorghum.Annual losses are difficult to determine because, unless lodging occurs, the disease mostly goes unnoticed. The best estimates are that at least 5 percent of the sorghum crop is lost each year to stalk rot. The incidence of stalk rot in individual fields may reach 90 to 100 percent, with yield losses of 50 percent.Symptoms generally appear several weeks after pollination when the plant appears to prematurely ripen. The leaves become dry, taking on a grayish-green appearance similar to frost injury. The stalk usually dies a few weeks later. Diseased stalks can be easily crushed when squeezed between the thumb and finger and are more susceptible to lodging during wind or rainstorms. The most characteristic symptom of stalk rot is the shredding of the internal tissue in the lowest internodes of the stalk, which can be observed when the stalk is split. This shredded tissue may be tan colored (Fusarium stalk rots); red or salmon, (Fusarium and Gibberella stalk rots); or grayish-black (charcoal rot).General considerations - stalk rot is a stress-related disease. Any stress on a crop can increase both the incidence and severity of stalk rot. Research has indicated that when the carbohydrates used to fill the grain become unavailable due to nutrient shortage, drought stress, leaf damage from insects, hail, disease or reduced sunlight, the plant uses nitrogen and carbohydrate reserves stored in the stalk to complete grain fill.Other than irrigation or rain, there is little that can be done to prevent stalk rot by late summer. No hybrid has complete immunity to the stalk rotting pathogens. When choosing a hybrid, a grower should select a hybrid that is not only a high yielder, but one that has good standability and “stay-green” characteristics. This will help assure that if stalk rot does occur, losses due to lodging can be reduced. A balanced nutrition program based on soil tests should be used. Overall fertility levels should be adjusted to fit the hybrid, plant population, soil type, environmental conditions and management program. An excess, as well as a shortage, of nitrogen can lead to increased stalk rot problems.Producers can check their sorghum for stalk rots by squeezing the lower stem with their thumb and fingers. If the stalks crush easily, they are probably infected with one of the stalk rot organisms and may lodge at any time. Check 100 plants across the field to determine the percent of affected plants. If the percentage of stalk-rot-infected plants is high, sorghum should be harvested as soon as possible, even if it hasn’t dried down adequately in the field. If the stalks are firm, the plants will probably be able to stand just fine in the field for several more weeks.For more information, see “Stalk Rots of Corn and Sorghum,” K-State publication L-741, at: https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/

CAMPBELL: Check for stalk rots prior to grain sorghum harvest

Did you know that more than ten thousand people become eligible to enroll in Medicare each day because they turn 65 years old? Learning about the various parts of Medicare can be confusing at best. Factor in the advertisements we are bombarded with on TV and in the mail, it becomes difficult to sort out the best options.

Nine years ago, I saw a need in this area for people trained to assist Medicare recipients who wanted to review their prescription drug plan during open enrollment. As trained SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) counselors, my husband John, and I can help Medicare recipients take a look at their Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) and hopefully find the most affordable plan. We have several other SHICK counselors serving area residents through the RSVP office, so we hope to be able to keep up with the calls.

The Open Enrollment Period begins Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. Plan costs and coverage change each year, so everyone with Medicare should check to make sure their plan still meets their health needs and budget. If you would like to check out the website for yourself, simply go to Medicare.gov and click on Part D Prescription Drug Plans.

If you are unable to do an internet search, feel free to give me a call at the Extension office. If you call my office at (620) 793-1910 I will do my best to schedule a time for you to meet in-person with me or John to review your current prescription drug plan and check on plans available in 2023. We will schedule appointments in both our Great Bend and Hays offices as needed.

Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Oct. 12, and join me at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. I will be sharing an educational program that will review the basic parts of Medicare. If you will be turning 65 within the next year, you may want to attend. The program is free and open to everyone. John and I will also be on hand to set up appointments to review your prescription drug plan during open enrollment at the Oct. 12 session.

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 &amp; 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>Did you know that more than ten thousand people become eligible to enroll in Medicare each day because they turn 65 years old? Learning about the various parts of Medicare can be confusing at best. Factor in the advertisements we are bombarded with on TV and in the mail, it becomes difficult to sort out the best options.Nine years ago, I saw a need in this area for people trained to assist Medicare recipients who wanted to review their prescription drug plan during open enrollment. As trained SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas) counselors, my husband John, and I can help Medicare recipients take a look at their Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) and hopefully find the most affordable plan. We have several other SHICK counselors serving area residents through the RSVP office, so we hope to be able to keep up with the calls.The Open Enrollment Period begins Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7. Plan costs and coverage change each year, so everyone with Medicare should check to make sure their plan still meets their health needs and budget. If you would like to check out the website for yourself, simply go to Medicare.gov and click on Part D Prescription Drug Plans.If you are unable to do an internet search, feel free to give me a call at the Extension office. If you call my office at (620) 793-1910 I will do my best to schedule a time for you to meet in-person with me or John to review your current prescription drug plan and check on plans available in 2023. We will schedule appointments in both our Great Bend and Hays offices as needed.Mark your calendar for Wednesday, Oct. 12, and join me at noon at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. I will be sharing an educational program that will review the basic parts of Medicare. If you will be turning 65 within the next year, you may want to attend. The program is free and open to everyone. John and I will also be on hand to set up appointments to review your prescription drug plan during open enrollment at the Oct. 12 session.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 &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KRUG: Medicare open enrollment begins soon

If your loved one was incapacitated today would you be prepared to make decisions for them? A recent K-State news service announcement offered information on talking with your loved ones about end of life decisions. It’s the conversation no one wants to talk about. However, this is so important if you or a loved one would ever become incapacitated, permanently or temporarily, to know what that person would want. It is difficult to make decisions when you are under stress or grieving so having those conversations before hand can help relieve some of that stress.

Erin Yelland, Interim Director of the K-State Center on Aging stated, “Research shows that end-of-life conversations are fairly rare within families. Often, families are left to assume what a person might have wanted, and during a time of grief, those can be especially challenging decisions.” Recently, I was faced with many of these decisions when my mother became seriously ill and eventually incapacitated. We had some conservations in the past about her wishes but our conversations were not nearly extensive enough. The things we had talked about made decisions a lot easier for me. It relieved a lot of stress for me knowing we had talked about what she wanted and I could follow through on those for her. However, some things we had not talked about so I had to guess on what she would want. Thankfully, I was aided by a very supportive family and conversations mom and I had about other people that were no longer able to make decisions for themselves which helped me make those decisions. Those decisions were much harder to make because I felt like I was guessing rather than knowing exactly what she wanted.

If you do not have health care directives in place and become incapacitated then the decisions will automatically fall to your spouse. If you are not married then the decisions will fall to your oldest child. It would be a good idea to discuss your preferences with your health care provider as well as those people you are closest to.

It is never too early to have health care directives in place for yourself. Even an 18-year-old can have documents called health care directives or durable powers of attorney in place because you never know when a tragedy could happen. We always think we have plenty of time until that time arrives. 

Kansas law allows simple forms to be filled out and have one witness signature. The forms can be found at the K-State Research and Extension bookstore in the publication, “Advance Health Care Planning in Kansas” https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3280.pdf or at your local K-State Extension Office located at 601 Main Street in Hays or 3007 W. 10th Street in Great Bend.

<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>If your loved one was incapacitated today would you be prepared to make decisions for them? A recent K-State news service announcement offered information on talking with your loved ones about end of life decisions. It’s the conversation no one wants to talk about. However, this is so important if you or a loved one would ever become incapacitated, permanently or temporarily, to know what that person would want. It is difficult to make decisions when you are under stress or grieving so having those conversations before hand can help relieve some of that stress.Erin Yelland, Interim Director of the K-State Center on Aging stated, “Research shows that end-of-life conversations are fairly rare within families. Often, families are left to assume what a person might have wanted, and during a time of grief, those can be especially challenging decisions.” Recently, I was faced with many of these decisions when my mother became seriously ill and eventually incapacitated. We had some conservations in the past about her wishes but our conversations were not nearly extensive enough. The things we had talked about made decisions a lot easier for me. It relieved a lot of stress for me knowing we had talked about what she wanted and I could follow through on those for her. However, some things we had not talked about so I had to guess on what she would want. Thankfully, I was aided by a very supportive family and conversations mom and I had about other people that were no longer able to make decisions for themselves which helped me make those decisions. Those decisions were much harder to make because I felt like I was guessing rather than knowing exactly what she wanted.If you do not have health care directives in place and become incapacitated then the decisions will automatically fall to your spouse. If you are not married then the decisions will fall to your oldest child. It would be a good idea to discuss your preferences with your health care provider as well as those people you are closest to.It is never too early to have health care directives in place for yourself. Even an 18-year-old can have documents called health care directives or durable powers of attorney in place because you never know when a tragedy could happen. We always think we have plenty of time until that time arrives. Kansas law allows simple forms to be filled out and have one witness signature. The forms can be found at the K-State Research and Extension bookstore in the publication, “Advance Health Care Planning in Kansas” https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF3280.pdf or at your local K-State Extension Office located at 601 Main Street in Hays or 3007 W. 10th Street in Great Bend.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: Advance health care planning

Forage and cattle management considerations for this fall and into the next year will be the emphasis of a series of meetings planned across the state to help producers make decisions given limited on-farm forage production and high feed costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Many producers have already culled and weaned earlier than normal to decrease forage demand, and going forward additional adjustments may be needed for the fall and winter,” said Sandy Johnson, a K-State Research and Extension beef specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Johnson said forages that have been grown might have issues with high nitrates and prussic acid, which can be deadly if mismanaged. Many producers may need to use unfamiliar feedstuffs with unique management considerations, according to Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Topics to be covered at the upcoming meetings will include feedstuffs and projecting forage inventory needs; management strategies to avoid nitrate and prussic acid poisoning; considerations for feeding cows and backgrounded calves with limited forages and health concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Presenters will vary depending on each meeting’s location.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The meeting scheduled for October 6th&nbsp;starting at 5:30PM will be at the Agricultural Research Center, located at 1232 240th&nbsp;Ave, Hays. To RSVP, call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa Meis at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu" target="_blank">tam3@ksu.edu</a>. Other meetings throughout the region include:&nbsp;

Sept. 26&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Cherryvale Community Center, 123 W Main St., Cherryvale, Kan. RSVP to Wildcat District office at 620-331-2690, or Wendie Powell,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wendiepowell@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wendiepowell@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oct. 4 --&nbsp;6 p.m.,&nbsp;Marlow-Leitz Memorial Building, 902 Grand St., Alma, Kan.&nbsp;RSVP to Wabaunsee County Extension office, 785-765-3821, or Shannon Spencer,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:spspencer@ksu.edu" target="_blank">spspencer@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oct. 5&nbsp;-- 5:30 p.m. (CT), American Legion Hall, Bird City, Kan.. RSVP to Sunflower District, 785-332-3171, or Heather McDonald,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hmcdonald@ksu.edu" target="_blank">hmcdonald@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oct.10&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Inman Community Center, Inman, Kan. RSVP to McPherson County Extension, 620-241-1523, or Shad Marston,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smarston@ksu.edu" target="_blank">smarston@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oct. 11&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Severy Community Building, Severy, Kan. RSVP to Greenwood County Extension, 620-583-7455, or Benjamin Sims,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:benjam63@ksu.edu" target="_blank">benjam63@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Oct. 13&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Grainfield Extension Office, 230 Main St., Grainfield, Kan. RSVP to Golden Prairie Extension District, 785-673-4805, or Kelsi Wertz,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kjwertz@ksu.edu" target="_blank">kjwertz@ksu.edu</a>.&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>Forage and cattle management considerations for this fall and into the next year will be the emphasis of a series of meetings planned across the state to help producers make decisions given limited on-farm forage production and high feed costs.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Many producers have already culled and weaned earlier than normal to decrease forage demand, and going forward additional adjustments may be needed for the fall and winter,” said Sandy Johnson, a K-State Research and Extension beef specialist.&nbsp;&nbsp;Johnson said forages that have been grown might have issues with high nitrates and prussic acid, which can be deadly if mismanaged. Many producers may need to use unfamiliar feedstuffs with unique management considerations, according to Johnson.&nbsp;&nbsp;Topics to be covered at the upcoming meetings will include feedstuffs and projecting forage inventory needs; management strategies to avoid nitrate and prussic acid poisoning; considerations for feeding cows and backgrounded calves with limited forages and health concerns.&nbsp;&nbsp;Presenters will vary depending on each meeting’s location.&nbsp;&nbsp;The meeting scheduled for October 6th&nbsp;starting at 5:30PM will be at the Agricultural Research Center, located at 1232 240th&nbsp;Ave, Hays. To RSVP, call 785-628-9430 or email Theresa Meis at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu" target="_blank">tam3@ksu.edu</a>. Other meetings throughout the region include:&nbsp;Sept. 26&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Cherryvale Community Center, 123 W Main St., Cherryvale, Kan. RSVP to Wildcat District office at 620-331-2690, or Wendie Powell,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:wendiepowell@ksu.edu" target="_blank">wendiepowell@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oct. 4 --&nbsp;6 p.m.,&nbsp;Marlow-Leitz Memorial Building, 902 Grand St., Alma, Kan.&nbsp;RSVP to Wabaunsee County Extension office, 785-765-3821, or Shannon Spencer,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:spspencer@ksu.edu" target="_blank">spspencer@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oct. 5&nbsp;-- 5:30 p.m. (CT), American Legion Hall, Bird City, Kan.. RSVP to Sunflower District, 785-332-3171, or Heather McDonald,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:hmcdonald@ksu.edu" target="_blank">hmcdonald@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oct.10&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Inman Community Center, Inman, Kan. RSVP to McPherson County Extension, 620-241-1523, or Shad Marston,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:smarston@ksu.edu" target="_blank">smarston@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oct. 11&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Severy Community Building, Severy, Kan. RSVP to Greenwood County Extension, 620-583-7455, or Benjamin Sims,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:benjam63@ksu.edu" target="_blank">benjam63@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;Oct. 13&nbsp;-- 6 p.m., Grainfield Extension Office, 230 Main St., Grainfield, Kan. RSVP to Golden Prairie Extension District, 785-673-4805, or Kelsi Wertz,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kjwertz@ksu.edu" target="_blank">kjwertz@ksu.edu</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: Drought meetings

I was having a conversation with a friend this week and they mentioned that they were vacuuming cobwebs out of their house only to have them appear again two days later. I told her to just get used to it because it was only going to get worse over the next several weeks.

Spiders live on insects and other insect like things even including other spiders. Many spiders do not survive the winter as an adult, they either overwinter as eggs or an adult female does hibernate so as to lay eggs and die in the spring. It all depends on the species. When spring starts out there aren’t a lot of insects necessarily available for food so spiders grow slowly. But as the summer progresses we see a constantly increasing population of insects and as the insect population grows, so do the creatures that live on insects, like spiders. By the time we get well into September things can get kind of out of hand. Then insects start trying to come inside our homes to find a safe place to overwinter. Right along with those insects come the things that live on insects—spiders.

Now that half of you are totally freaking out let me say that we really only have two “venomous” spiders in Kansas. I prefer venomous over poisonous because the only time they are a problem is if they bite you and inject their venom. Hemlock is poisonous, copperheads and brown recluses are venomous! With that out of the way, we have black widows and brown recluses in Kansas. Black widows are pretty rare. Brown recluses, on the other hand, are so common that I can find them in every house in the region, given enough time!

Both spiders can be a problem if they bite you, or it can honestly be a non- event. All spiders can bite. It’s how they live. But many of them either have jaws too small to puncture our skin, or if they do puncture the skin, the result won’t be much worse than a mosquito bite. If you ever have any apparent bite that won’t heal or causes excessive pain, redness and swelling, get to your family doctor as soon as possible. Brown recluses come by their name honestly. They don’t spin webs, they are stalk and attack predators and they want to avoid people. You’re going to find them in piles of newspapers, in boxes in rooms you don’t go into often, or deep in the garage where you rarely go!

To reduce spiders in your home take steps to reduce insects in your home. Make sure that doors and windows seal tight. This time of year treat the foundation and areas up and down from the foundation with a general lawn and garden insecticide. Use a ready to use home insect pest control product and treat the baseboard areas, locations where utilities enter your

house and thresholds of doorways into your house. Insects, and spiders, will often travel where the wall and floor meet because they are at less risk of attack when out in the open. Do not use “bombs” or glue traps. Bombs are really only effective on flying insects. Glue traps don’t really reduce populations and only show you how many insects and spiders are really in your house, which will ultimately only freak you out more!

We will have insects and spiders in our houses. That’s a fact. You can reduce those populations but not eliminate them. Once freezing weather starts to show up, things will start to get better. Well, at least until spring.

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 was having a conversation with a friend this week and they mentioned that they were vacuuming cobwebs out of their house only to have them appear again two days later. I told her to just get used to it because it was only going to get worse over the next several weeks.Spiders live on insects and other insect like things even including other spiders. Many spiders do not survive the winter as an adult, they either overwinter as eggs or an adult female does hibernate so as to lay eggs and die in the spring. It all depends on the species. When spring starts out there aren’t a lot of insects necessarily available for food so spiders grow slowly. But as the summer progresses we see a constantly increasing population of insects and as the insect population grows, so do the creatures that live on insects, like spiders. By the time we get well into September things can get kind of out of hand. Then insects start trying to come inside our homes to find a safe place to overwinter. Right along with those insects come the things that live on insects—spiders.Now that half of you are totally freaking out let me say that we really only have two “venomous” spiders in Kansas. I prefer venomous over poisonous because the only time they are a problem is if they bite you and inject their venom. Hemlock is poisonous, copperheads and brown recluses are venomous! With that out of the way, we have black widows and brown recluses in Kansas. Black widows are pretty rare. Brown recluses, on the other hand, are so common that I can find them in every house in the region, given enough time!Both spiders can be a problem if they bite you, or it can honestly be a non- event. All spiders can bite. It’s how they live. But many of them either have jaws too small to puncture our skin, or if they do puncture the skin, the result won’t be much worse than a mosquito bite. If you ever have any apparent bite that won’t heal or causes excessive pain, redness and swelling, get to your family doctor as soon as possible. Brown recluses come by their name honestly. They don’t spin webs, they are stalk and attack predators and they want to avoid people. You’re going to find them in piles of newspapers, in boxes in rooms you don’t go into often, or deep in the garage where you rarely go!To reduce spiders in your home take steps to reduce insects in your home. Make sure that doors and windows seal tight. This time of year treat the foundation and areas up and down from the foundation with a general lawn and garden insecticide. Use a ready to use home insect pest control product and treat the baseboard areas, locations where utilities enter yourhouse and thresholds of doorways into your house. Insects, and spiders, will often travel where the wall and floor meet because they are at less risk of attack when out in the open. Do not use “bombs” or glue traps. Bombs are really only effective on flying insects. Glue traps don’t really reduce populations and only show you how many insects and spiders are really in your house, which will ultimately only freak you out more!We will have insects and spiders in our houses. That’s a fact. You can reduce those populations but not eliminate them. Once freezing weather starts to show up, things will start to get better. Well, at least until spring.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: You’re going to be seeing more spiders

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District agent Monique Koerner stops by to share updates from the district.

For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

On this episode of the Post Podcast Cottonwood Extension District agent Monique Koerner stops by to share updates from the district.<div><iframe title="Cottonwood Extension District welcomes newest agent" allowtransparency="true" height="300" 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=z2359-12c9531-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=300" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.

🎙 Post Podcast: Cottonwood Extension District welcomes newest agent

I hope you had a chance to check out the Kansas State Fair this past week! Mostly, I hope you moved off the midway and away from the concerts to check out the incredible 4-H and Open Class exhibits.

I delivered over 70 4-H entries for our county and that doesn’t include the 4-H members who participated in the 4-H Dog Show, Communication Presentations, Judging Contests, Fashion Revue, or Livestock contests! Centennial Hall is a busy place on the day of check in as agents from all 105 counties deliver entries for evaluation by a judge. For perspective, there were 1596 4-H photos judged! There were at least 10 foods judges working through a crazy number of cakes, pies, cookies, and breads.

Communication Presentations include demonstrations, illustrated talks, and poetry/prose readings and we had the great problem of needing to secure an additional judge due to the number of entries! Watching 4-H members step onto a different stage with the distractions of people walking past and unfamiliar audiences is a fun and rewarding experience. I had to appreciate a judge the first weekend who awarded a low ribbon placing and said that the young man admitted that he hadn’t really practiced or adequately prepared; this is experiential learning at its finest!

In all events, 4-H members must have earned a purple ribbon at their local county fair or club day in order to be eligible to present at the Kansas State Fair. Even if they didn’t receive a top ribbon at State Fair, being chosen to participate is a great step.

Speaking of ribbons, we award purple, blue, red, white, and participation ribbons. A participation ribbon is usually reserved for our littlest 4-H members, our Cloverbuds and recognizes their participation in a non-competitive environment.

A purple ribbon indicates excellent quality and is usually reserved for the top few entries. A blue ribbon indicates superior quality and that basic standards have been met; it may have some minor flaws or issues. A red ribbon is awarded for average quality and often indicates that most standards are met with some areas

for improvement. A white ribbon is given when an entry is below average quality and minimum standards.

Most of our judges use a rubric to assist them in fairly and evenly evaluating a variety of entries. I will tell you from experience that it is much harder than it looks. 4-H judges always try to provide some positive feedback along with the critical information for improvement.

If you didn’t make it through 4-H Centennial Hall this year, be sure to put it on your agenda for next year. Check out the creative work from young people across our state and Barton County!

<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>I hope you had a chance to check out the Kansas State Fair this past week! Mostly, I hope you moved off the midway and away from the concerts to check out the incredible 4-H and Open Class exhibits.I delivered over 70 4-H entries for our county and that doesn’t include the 4-H members who participated in the 4-H Dog Show, Communication Presentations, Judging Contests, Fashion Revue, or Livestock contests! Centennial Hall is a busy place on the day of check in as agents from all 105 counties deliver entries for evaluation by a judge. For perspective, there were 1596 4-H photos judged! There were at least 10 foods judges working through a crazy number of cakes, pies, cookies, and breads.Communication Presentations include demonstrations, illustrated talks, and poetry/prose readings and we had the great problem of needing to secure an additional judge due to the number of entries! Watching 4-H members step onto a different stage with the distractions of people walking past and unfamiliar audiences is a fun and rewarding experience. I had to appreciate a judge the first weekend who awarded a low ribbon placing and said that the young man admitted that he hadn’t really practiced or adequately prepared; this is experiential learning at its finest!In all events, 4-H members must have earned a purple ribbon at their local county fair or club day in order to be eligible to present at the Kansas State Fair. Even if they didn’t receive a top ribbon at State Fair, being chosen to participate is a great step.Speaking of ribbons, we award purple, blue, red, white, and participation ribbons. A participation ribbon is usually reserved for our littlest 4-H members, our Cloverbuds and recognizes their participation in a non-competitive environment.A purple ribbon indicates excellent quality and is usually reserved for the top few entries. A blue ribbon indicates superior quality and that basic standards have been met; it may have some minor flaws or issues. A red ribbon is awarded for average quality and often indicates that most standards are met with some areasfor improvement. A white ribbon is given when an entry is below average quality and minimum standards.Most of our judges use a rubric to assist them in fairly and evenly evaluating a variety of entries. I will tell you from experience that it is much harder than it looks. 4-H judges always try to provide some positive feedback along with the critical information for improvement.If you didn’t make it through 4-H Centennial Hall this year, be sure to put it on your agenda for next year. Check out the creative work from young people across our state and Barton County!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: Kansas State Fair wrap up

Extension in Kansas introduced a new way of sharing educational programs during the pandemic. While we were not doing face-to-face presentations, people of all ages found webinars recorded by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) professionals from across the state to be an effective way to learn about a variety of topics.

Dubbed as Living Well Wednesday, the topics touched on a wide variety of essential skills that empower you and your family to live, work, and thrive. The webinars were held over the lunch hour on the second and fourth Wednesday, throughout much of 2021 and during the first three months of 2022. The neat thing is that each session is recorded and available to listen to on your schedule. Just go to the KSRE website and in the search type in living well Wednesday.

The first presentation in 2022 was titled, “Parents Guide to Social Media.” A guest presenter, John Calvert, Director of Safe and Secure Schools Unit, shares his expertise about the apps to be aware of on a child’s phone. It was an eye-opening presentation that concerns me when I think of my four grandchildren, aged 7 to 14. Besides the recordings there are links to excellent handouts and additional resources to refer back to.

There are three upcoming Living Well Wednesday presentations that I want to highlight today. The three webinars will be provided in Spanish only. “Connecting Cultures – Celebrating our Diversity” is the title of the September 28th webinar. Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life and Resources Agent in Sedgwick County, is the presenter.

Guest presenters from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will be sharing “Chronic Illness – Prevention and Management” on October 12th. The discussion will cover the leading causes of chronic illnesses for the Latino population. Participants will learn strategies and efforts that one can do to reduce or prevent chronic illnesses.

The final Spanish webinar, on October 26th is titled, “Survive, Strive and Thrive.” This presentation, shared by Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, will help parents gain confidence in their ability to be a good parent and to gain the skills and attitudes necessary for rearing healthy, positive children.

The three Spanish only webinars are set for 12:15 – 1 PM each of the dates I mentioned. I’m happy to share the flyer with information about registering for the webinars.

And finally, plans are being made to offer another series of Living Well Wednesday in English in 2023. I look forward to sharing the topics with you as soon as they are announced. So, stay tuned!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. 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>Extension in Kansas introduced a new way of sharing educational programs during the pandemic. While we were not doing face-to-face presentations, people of all ages found webinars recorded by Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) professionals from across the state to be an effective way to learn about a variety of topics.Dubbed as Living Well Wednesday, the topics touched on a wide variety of essential skills that empower you and your family to live, work, and thrive. The webinars were held over the lunch hour on the second and fourth Wednesday, throughout much of 2021 and during the first three months of 2022. The neat thing is that each session is recorded and available to listen to on your schedule. Just go to the KSRE website and in the search type in living well Wednesday.The first presentation in 2022 was titled, “Parents Guide to Social Media.” A guest presenter, John Calvert, Director of Safe and Secure Schools Unit, shares his expertise about the apps to be aware of on a child’s phone. It was an eye-opening presentation that concerns me when I think of my four grandchildren, aged 7 to 14. Besides the recordings there are links to excellent handouts and additional resources to refer back to.There are three upcoming Living Well Wednesday presentations that I want to highlight today. The three webinars will be provided in Spanish only. “Connecting Cultures – Celebrating our Diversity” is the title of the September 28th webinar. Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, Family Life and Resources Agent in Sedgwick County, is the presenter.Guest presenters from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will be sharing “Chronic Illness – Prevention and Management” on October 12th. The discussion will cover the leading causes of chronic illnesses for the Latino population. Participants will learn strategies and efforts that one can do to reduce or prevent chronic illnesses.The final Spanish webinar, on October 26th is titled, “Survive, Strive and Thrive.” This presentation, shared by Elizabeth Brunscheen-Cartagena, will help parents gain confidence in their ability to be a good parent and to gain the skills and attitudes necessary for rearing healthy, positive children.The three Spanish only webinars are set for 12:15 – 1 PM each of the dates I mentioned. I’m happy to share the flyer with information about registering for the webinars.And finally, plans are being made to offer another series of Living Well Wednesday in English in 2023. I look forward to sharing the topics with you as soon as they are announced. So, stay tuned!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. 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: Living Well Wednesday programming announced

The latest drought monitor has most of the western half of Ellis County listed as extreme drought the rest of the county is severe with the exception of the northeast corner as moderate drought. Most of Barton County is listed as moderate drought with the exception of the very northwest corner as severe.

With wheat planting approaching growers are probably weighing out more than one option. They can choose to “dust in” the wheat at the normal seeding depth and normal planting date, and hope for rain. Some farmers may consider planting it shallower than normal, but this could increase the potential for winterkill or freeze damage. Planting the wheat crop at the normal depth and hoping for rain is probably the best option where soils are very dry. The seed will remain viable in the soil until it gets enough moisture.

The long-term outlook by NOAA for a good bit of the western half of Kansas and all of the southern half to one-third of counties across the state, is that the drought is expected to persist through the end of November.

There are three basic options for planting winter wheat into dry soils:

1. Plant normally and hope for rain but due to the current moderate to extreme drought conditions. K-State Wheat specialist Romulo Lollato would advise growers to treat their fields as if they were planting later than the optimum time, as the emergence date will likely be delayed. Rather than cutting back on seeding rates and fertilizer to save money on a lost cause, producers should increase seeding rates, consider using a fungicide seed treatment, and consider using a starter phosphorus fertilizer to improve early season development. However, producers should be cautious with in-furrow nitrogen or potassium fertilizers as these are salts and can make it more difficult for the seed/seedling to absorb water needed for germination. The idea is to make sure the wheat gets off to a good start and will have enough heads to have good yield potential, assuming it will eventually rain and the crop will emerge late. Wheat that emerges in October may still hold full yield potential, but wheat that emerges in November almost always has fewer fall tillers and therefore can have decreased yield potential. By planting normally and hoping for rain. Two unwanted results could occur: crusting after a hard rain and soil erosion due to strong wind. Crusting and soil erosion are less likely in no-till situations than in conventionally tilled fields.

2. Wait for rain, then plant. If you choose to do this and plant late then the recommendations from above to increase seeding rates, consider using a fungicide seed treatment, and using a starter phosphorus fertilizer are advisable.

3. Seed deeper to reach soil moisture. This will require seedlings to grow through more soil to emerge and absorb sunlight. Therefore, seeding a variety with a long coleoptile (first leaf

sheath) is preferable. Since there may be plant loss, increasing the seeding rate should be considered. It is recommended to plant winter wheat no deeper than 3 inches.

Crop insurance considerations and deadlines will play a role in these decisions. Another consideration is to delay the bulk of nitrogen application until topdress time in the spring, as wheat does not require much nitrogen in the fall. This would defer expenses until an acceptable wheat stand is assured.

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>The latest drought monitor has most of the western half of Ellis County listed as extreme drought the rest of the county is severe with the exception of the northeast corner as moderate drought. Most of Barton County is listed as moderate drought with the exception of the very northwest corner as severe.With wheat planting approaching growers are probably weighing out more than one option. They can choose to “dust in” the wheat at the normal seeding depth and normal planting date, and hope for rain. Some farmers may consider planting it shallower than normal, but this could increase the potential for winterkill or freeze damage. Planting the wheat crop at the normal depth and hoping for rain is probably the best option where soils are very dry. The seed will remain viable in the soil until it gets enough moisture.The long-term outlook by NOAA for a good bit of the western half of Kansas and all of the southern half to one-third of counties across the state, is that the drought is expected to persist through the end of November.There are three basic options for planting winter wheat into dry soils:1. Plant normally and hope for rain but due to the current moderate to extreme drought conditions. K-State Wheat specialist Romulo Lollato would advise growers to treat their fields as if they were planting later than the optimum time, as the emergence date will likely be delayed. Rather than cutting back on seeding rates and fertilizer to save money on a lost cause, producers should increase seeding rates, consider using a fungicide seed treatment, and consider using a starter phosphorus fertilizer to improve early season development. However, producers should be cautious with in-furrow nitrogen or potassium fertilizers as these are salts and can make it more difficult for the seed/seedling to absorb water needed for germination. The idea is to make sure the wheat gets off to a good start and will have enough heads to have good yield potential, assuming it will eventually rain and the crop will emerge late. Wheat that emerges in October may still hold full yield potential, but wheat that emerges in November almost always has fewer fall tillers and therefore can have decreased yield potential. By planting normally and hoping for rain. Two unwanted results could occur: crusting after a hard rain and soil erosion due to strong wind. Crusting and soil erosion are less likely in no-till situations than in conventionally tilled fields.2. Wait for rain, then plant. If you choose to do this and plant late then the recommendations from above to increase seeding rates, consider using a fungicide seed treatment, and using a starter phosphorus fertilizer are advisable.3. Seed deeper to reach soil moisture. This will require seedlings to grow through more soil to emerge and absorb sunlight. Therefore, seeding a variety with a long coleoptile (first leafsheath) is preferable. Since there may be plant loss, increasing the seeding rate should be considered. It is recommended to plant winter wheat no deeper than 3 inches.Crop insurance considerations and deadlines will play a role in these decisions. Another consideration is to delay the bulk of nitrogen application until topdress time in the spring, as wheat does not require much nitrogen in the fall. This would defer expenses until an acceptable wheat stand is assured.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.