On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District agent Stacy Campbell shares updates from the district.&nbsp;

<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

<div><iframe title="Extension district wheat test plot results released" 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=yxim2-128592d-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>On this episode of the Post Podcast, Cottonwood Extension District agent Stacy Campbell shares updates from the district.&nbsp;<a href="https://postpodcast.podbean.com/">For more about the Post Podcast, including a full list of episodes and episode transcripts click here.</a>

🎙Post Podcast: Extension district wheat test plot results released

If you plan to feed out sorghums, there are several things to consider before feeding. Below, we talk about the various ways and what level of concern you should have. When in doubt, test before feeding.&nbsp;

Pasture. Grazing sorghum is considered to be the most dangerous option when HCN potential is a concern; however, proper management can reduce risk. Figure 6 shows a calf grazing sorghum-sudangrass that is more than 18 inches tall and shows no stress from frost or extreme drought, both conditions that could increase HCN potential. Residues from grain sorghum can be safely grazed after grain harvest, if the remaining plant is totally dead after a frost, or a week has passed since the frost occurred. Grain sorghum can have small tillers that can be high in HCN until after a killing frost.&nbsp;

Hay. It is recommended to use forage sorghum as hay when HCN potential is not a concern; plants are greater than 18 to 24 inches tall, and not drought or cold stressed. Drying does not eliminate risk. If in doubt about the degree of stress that might lead to elevated dhurrin in hay, collect a representative sample and test for HCN potential.&nbsp;

Silage. Silage is considered one of the safest options when feeding sorghum forage.&nbsp;

Green Chop. Use of green chop reduces HCN potential as compared to grazing but is not considered as safe as feeding silage.&nbsp;

If HCN is a concern, several steps can be taken to reduce the potential of cyanide toxicity. These steps include:&nbsp;

If you suspect HCN poisoning in even one animal, call your local veterinarian immediately and remove the rest of the livestock from the feed. Accurate diagnosis of clinical signs and removal from feed is important in these cases. Your veterinarian may collect samples of forage, rumen contents, or blood to help confirm a diagnosis.&nbsp;

Overall, sorghum has many beneficial properties. If proper management occurs, sorghum can be a safe and beneficial forage crop. Soon, a new hybrid will be on the market that is dhurrin-free. This hybrid will not release HCN because there is no accumulation of dhurrin. This new hybrid will be a great option for removing the fear of cyanide toxicity.&nbsp;

Kansas testing information&nbsp; Check with your local county extension agent or office for the closest option.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html</a>

<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>If you plan to feed out sorghums, there are several things to consider before feeding. Below, we talk about the various ways and what level of concern you should have. When in doubt, test before feeding.&nbsp;Pasture. Grazing sorghum is considered to be the most dangerous option when HCN potential is a concern; however, proper management can reduce risk. Figure 6 shows a calf grazing sorghum-sudangrass that is more than 18 inches tall and shows no stress from frost or extreme drought, both conditions that could increase HCN potential. Residues from grain sorghum can be safely grazed after grain harvest, if the remaining plant is totally dead after a frost, or a week has passed since the frost occurred. Grain sorghum can have small tillers that can be high in HCN until after a killing frost.&nbsp;Hay. It is recommended to use forage sorghum as hay when HCN potential is not a concern; plants are greater than 18 to 24 inches tall, and not drought or cold stressed. Drying does not eliminate risk. If in doubt about the degree of stress that might lead to elevated dhurrin in hay, collect a representative sample and test for HCN potential.&nbsp;Silage. Silage is considered one of the safest options when feeding sorghum forage.&nbsp;Green Chop. Use of green chop reduces HCN potential as compared to grazing but is not considered as safe as feeding silage.&nbsp;If HCN is a concern, several steps can be taken to reduce the potential of cyanide toxicity. These steps include:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>use the sorghum before a frost occurs,&nbsp;</li><li>submit sorghum sample(s) to a qualified lab to be tested for HCN,&nbsp;</li><li>wait to graze 7 to 10 days after a killing freeze,&nbsp;</li><li>do not apply more than 50 pounds of nitrogen (soil plus fertilizer) per cutting, and&nbsp;</li><li>dilute the sorghum feed with another feed source.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>If you suspect HCN poisoning in even one animal, call your local veterinarian immediately and remove the rest of the livestock from the feed. Accurate diagnosis of clinical signs and removal from feed is important in these cases. Your veterinarian may collect samples of forage, rumen contents, or blood to help confirm a diagnosis.&nbsp;Overall, sorghum has many beneficial properties. If proper management occurs, sorghum can be a safe and beneficial forage crop. Soon, a new hybrid will be on the market that is dhurrin-free. This hybrid will not release HCN because there is no accumulation of dhurrin. This new hybrid will be a great option for removing the fear of cyanide toxicity.&nbsp;Kansas testing information&nbsp; Check with your local county extension agent or office for the closest option.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html" target="_blank">https://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/statewide-locations.html</a>

BOOR: HCN concern for sorghum varieties 

In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?

There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.

Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.

Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.

Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.

So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?

The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.

Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.

In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.

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/2022/7/1658841456977.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>In drier years I get this question. When the soil is dry, will it be able to hold anhydrous ammonia or will some or most of the ammonia be lost shortly after application?There are three factors that come into play when applying anhydrous ammonia to dry soils.Chemical - Ammonia (NH3) needs to react with water shortly after application in order to convert into ammonium (NH4+), which is the molecule that can adhere to clay and organic matter in the soil. Ammonia is very soluble in water. After it is placed in the soil, NH3 reacts with water in the soil to form NH4+, which is retained on the soil cation exchange capacity sites. This process takes a little time – it does not occur immediately upon contact with the soil. The main controlling factors in the conversion of NH3 to NH4+ are soil temperature, soil moisture, and soil pH. The higher the soil temperature and the wetter the soil, the more rapid the conversion occurs. If the ammonia does not react with water, it will remain as a gas that could escape from the soil. Also, equilibrium between NH3 and NH4+ is affected by soil pH. More NH3 will remain unconverted in the soil longer at higher application rates and at higher soil pH levels.Physical - Dry soils may be cloddy, with large air spaces where the soil has cracked. This can allow the gas to physically escape into the air before it has a chance to be converted into ammonium. Getting the soil sealed properly above the injection slot can also be a problem in dry soils. Loss of the ammonium gas can begin immediately after application continuing for several days to weeks if there is no moisture. N losses can be greater than 50%.Application depth - The deeper the ammonia is applied, the more likely the ammonia will have moisture to react with, and the easier the sealing.So, can anhydrous ammonia be applied to dry soils?The answer is yes - as long as the ammonia is applied deep enough to get it in some moisture and the soil is well sealed above the injection slot. If the soil is dry and cloddy, there may be considerable losses of ammonia within just a few days of application if the soil is not well sealed above the injection slot and/or the injection point is too shallow.Producers should be able to tell if anhydrous is escaping from the soil during application or if the ammonia isn’t being applied deeply enough. If ammonia can be smelled, the producer should either change the equipment setup to get better sealing or deeper injection, or wait until the soil has better moisture conditions.In short, producers can minimize this potential loss problem by applying the anhydrous ammonia at the proper depth (at least 6 to 8 inches in 30 to 40 inch spacings), and using covering disks behind the knives or sealing wings ("beaver tails") on the knives.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: Can dry soils affect anhydrous ammonia applications in Kansas?

As we prepared for the fair, I had the opportunity to work with both 4-H and Open Class superintendents to review Youth Program Quality Principles from the Kansas 4-H Club Corner. There are eight critical principles for youth program quality as defined by 4-H. I do believe that these apply to any youth program!

1) Physical and psychological safety – Youth need to feel safe in 4-H programs and be able to interact positively with others. Volunteers for Kansas 4-H go through background checks and have access to trainings to provide an appropriate environment for youth to develop.

2) Appropriate structure – Whether it is a club meeting or leadership camp, 4-H programs must have clear and consistent rules and expectations, with clear boundaries and age-appropriate monitoring.

3) Supportive relationships – All youth need to feel warmth from and closeness to others in 4-H. Youth need to feel others care about and support them. They also need to receive clear guidance and communication from 4-H volunteers and staff.

4) Opportunities to belong – All youth need to feel included in a meaningful way in 4-H, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or ability. Youth have opportunities to share their culture and heritage with others and to forge a positive identity. For myself, at the end of the day, did I help a youth feel valued and that they have a support system?

5) Positive social norms – Youth should experience clear rules and expectations for participating in 4-H, including the values, morals, and ethical expectations of being a 4-H member. Opportunities bring responsibility and that is a life skill which includes abiding by deadlines and a Code of Conduct for appropriate behavior, especially when you are representing your family, club, county, and state at events.

6) Support for efficacy and mattering – Youth in 4-H should be taken seriously and respected for their ideas and contributions. Youth should be given opportunities to develop responsibility and be challenged to set and achieve new goals. Representing their club at 4-H Council, serving in Junior Leaders, and being selected to a 4-H Ambassador role, and serving as club officers are all great examples of providing opportunities for developing responsibility. Each new 4-H year brings the opportunity to set new project goals for learning. These are all important life skills!

7) Opportunities for skill building – Youth need to develop physical, psychological, intellectual, emotional, and social skills as they grow and develop. 4-H provides opportunities for youth to develop these skills, skills that support a young person into adulthood and the workplace. One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the nearly forty project areas offered to learn about everything from Arts and Crafts to Woodworking. While youth explore the specific project material, they are also learning communication skills, responsibility, time management, and a sense of belonging.

8) Integration of family, school, and community – Youth in 4-H do best when there is a connection to their 4-H experience with their family, school, and community. This is why 4-H programs begin at the local level, in the community where youth can practice their emerging leadership skills as they grow and develop. As a teacher, do you have a 4-H member in your class? Invite them to share about a project! Are you part of a civic organization that would like to know more about what 4-H members are learning? Reach out to them and ask them to present! Your engagement and support help to enrich their 4-H experience and learning opportunities.

If you want to have an active part in developing the next generation of community leaders, business owners, and work force – consider volunteering with a youth organization! If often means checking your own attitude and agenda at the door but the results are incredible!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

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

<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>As we prepared for the fair, I had the opportunity to work with both 4-H and Open Class superintendents to review Youth Program Quality Principles from the Kansas 4-H Club Corner. There are eight critical principles for youth program quality as defined by 4-H. I do believe that these apply to any youth program!1) Physical and psychological safety – Youth need to feel safe in 4-H programs and be able to interact positively with others. Volunteers for Kansas 4-H go through background checks and have access to trainings to provide an appropriate environment for youth to develop.2) Appropriate structure – Whether it is a club meeting or leadership camp, 4-H programs must have clear and consistent rules and expectations, with clear boundaries and age-appropriate monitoring.3) Supportive relationships – All youth need to feel warmth from and closeness to others in 4-H. Youth need to feel others care about and support them. They also need to receive clear guidance and communication from 4-H volunteers and staff.4) Opportunities to belong – All youth need to feel included in a meaningful way in 4-H, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or ability. Youth have opportunities to share their culture and heritage with others and to forge a positive identity. For myself, at the end of the day, did I help a youth feel valued and that they have a support system?5) Positive social norms – Youth should experience clear rules and expectations for participating in 4-H, including the values, morals, and ethical expectations of being a 4-H member. Opportunities bring responsibility and that is a life skill which includes abiding by deadlines and a Code of Conduct for appropriate behavior, especially when you are representing your family, club, county, and state at events.6) Support for efficacy and mattering – Youth in 4-H should be taken seriously and respected for their ideas and contributions. Youth should be given opportunities to develop responsibility and be challenged to set and achieve new goals. Representing their club at 4-H Council, serving in Junior Leaders, and being selected to a 4-H Ambassador role, and serving as club officers are all great examples of providing opportunities for developing responsibility. Each new 4-H year brings the opportunity to set new project goals for learning. These are all important life skills!7) Opportunities for skill building – Youth need to develop physical, psychological, intellectual, emotional, and social skills as they grow and develop. 4-H provides opportunities for youth to develop these skills, skills that support a young person into adulthood and the workplace. One of the hallmarks of 4-H is the nearly forty project areas offered to learn about everything from Arts and Crafts to Woodworking. While youth explore the specific project material, they are also learning communication skills, responsibility, time management, and a sense of belonging.8) Integration of family, school, and community – Youth in 4-H do best when there is a connection to their 4-H experience with their family, school, and community. This is why 4-H programs begin at the local level, in the community where youth can practice their emerging leadership skills as they grow and develop. As a teacher, do you have a 4-H member in your class? Invite them to share about a project! Are you part of a civic organization that would like to know more about what 4-H members are learning? Reach out to them and ask them to present! Your engagement and support help to enrich their 4-H experience and learning opportunities.If you want to have an active part in developing the next generation of community leaders, business owners, and work force – consider volunteering with a youth organization! If often means checking your own attitude and agenda at the door but the results are incredible!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Youth development

I guess you could say “The Heat is
on!”&nbsp; But after all it is July and County
Fairs are in full swing, so what else could we expect?&nbsp; During this hot stretch it is a good idea to
check on elderly family members or neighbors who may have other health issues
besides dealing with the heat. 

As we look ahead to a forecast of triple
digit temperatures it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the
importance of staying hydrated. A good rule of thumb for the amount of water
you need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the
number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances and
more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise. So for an example, a
150-pound individual should have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat
wave. Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the
brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly
90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen
to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes waste; and
regulates body temperature.

Exposure to the sun or getting
sunburned will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing
caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is
essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water
loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or
heat stroke and can be life threatening. It is a good idea to become familiar
with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling
thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat
exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature
of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse
or a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to
get medical help right away if you suspect a heat stroke.

Cool water is recommended for the
majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods also have
a high water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons
and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies,
puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be
helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of
electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting them with water in order
to reduce sugar consumption. 

The bottom line on staying hydrated
is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability to sense
thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt
them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored
closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids
because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their
size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and
before, during and after play.

Let’s hope that the heat breaks
soon before the 2022 summer goes into the record books!

Donna
Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State
Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. She may be reached at
(620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; K-State Research &amp; 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 District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>I guess you could say “The Heat is
on!”&nbsp; But after all it is July and County
Fairs are in full swing, so what else could we expect?&nbsp; During this hot stretch it is a good idea to
check on elderly family members or neighbors who may have other health issues
besides dealing with the heat. As we look ahead to a forecast of triple
digit temperatures it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the
importance of staying hydrated. A good rule of thumb for the amount of water
you need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the
number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances and
more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise. So for an example, a
150-pound individual should have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat
wave. Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the
brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly
90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen
to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes waste; and
regulates body temperature.Exposure to the sun or getting
sunburned will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing
caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is
essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water
loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or
heat stroke and can be life threatening. It is a good idea to become familiar
with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling
thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat
exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature
of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse
or a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to
get medical help right away if you suspect a heat stroke.Cool water is recommended for the
majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods also have
a high water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons
and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies,
puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be
helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of
electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting them with water in order
to reduce sugar consumption. The bottom line on staying hydrated
is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability to sense
thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt
them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored
closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids
because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their
size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and
before, during and after play.Let’s hope that the heat breaks
soon before the 2022 summer goes into the record books!Donna
Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State
Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. She may be reached at
(620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal
opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Fluids important to manage heat, humidity safely

Forage sorghum, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudangrass are important forage crops throughout the United States. While sorghum is a valuable forage crop, sorghum species can produce prussic acid, which can be toxic to livestock. Prussic acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide (HCN), can cause acute toxicity and death. Potential of HCN toxicity (HCN potential) is directly related to dhurrin content, which is the precursor to HCN. Dhurrin is broken down through cell disruption, such as chewing or freezing, which causes rapid HCN release. This week, we will look at the characteristics and causes of HCN. Next week, we will look at feeding and testing options.&nbsp;

Characteristics Affecting Dhurrin Content and HCN Potential&nbsp;

Species/Varieties. Dhurrin content in sudangrass is about 40 percent less than in most other sorghums. As a group, the sorghum-sudangrass hybrids have more HCN potential than sudangrass and forage sorghum has more HCN potential than sorghum-sudangrass and sudangrass. Johnsongrass, shattercane and sorghum have high HCN potential, and may be hazardous when found in pastures and fence rows.&nbsp;

Plant Age. Sorghum age has a significant effect on dhurrin content. Plants have larger amounts of dhurrin in the early growth stages or early regrowth. Older plants, however, can increase HCN potential as a result of environmental factors, as described below. Delay grazing until the plants have reached a height of 18 to 24 inches to avoid HCN toxicity under good growing conditions.&nbsp;

Tissue Type. The vegetative portion of all sorghums can contain dhurrin. HCN potential varies within a single sorghum plant depending on the plant tissue. Tillers, commonly called shoots, can contain a large amount of dhurrin, too. Examine fields for the presence of young tillers on more mature sorghum plants.&nbsp;

Drought. In the western and southern United States, ingestion of sorghum species during drought can cause cyanide toxicity in livestock. Nitrate levels also can be high in drought-stressed plants.

Frost. Sorghum can become stressed in frost conditions leading to an increase in dhurrin. It is important to remove livestock from sorghum when a frost is predicted. After a frost, keep livestock off frosted sorghum plants for at least one week. This recommendation is a rolling suggestion, meaning that every time another frost occurs, livestock should be removed from the frosted plants for another week, until the plants have been completely killed with a hard frost. After a non-killing frost, sorghum should be scouted for regrowth because it can contain a large amount of HCN. If regrowth is apparent, you should wait 10 to 14 days or until the regrowth has reached 24 inches tall before grazing or chopping.&nbsp;

Nitrogen Application. Overfertilization with nitrogen can cause the crop to be toxic by two different mechanisms, HCN potential and nitrate concentration.&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>Forage sorghum, sorghum-sudangrass, and sudangrass are important forage crops throughout the United States. While sorghum is a valuable forage crop, sorghum species can produce prussic acid, which can be toxic to livestock. Prussic acid, also known as hydrogen cyanide (HCN), can cause acute toxicity and death. Potential of HCN toxicity (HCN potential) is directly related to dhurrin content, which is the precursor to HCN. Dhurrin is broken down through cell disruption, such as chewing or freezing, which causes rapid HCN release. This week, we will look at the characteristics and causes of HCN. Next week, we will look at feeding and testing options.&nbsp;Characteristics Affecting Dhurrin Content and HCN Potential&nbsp;Species/Varieties. Dhurrin content in sudangrass is about 40 percent less than in most other sorghums. As a group, the sorghum-sudangrass hybrids have more HCN potential than sudangrass and forage sorghum has more HCN potential than sorghum-sudangrass and sudangrass. Johnsongrass, shattercane and sorghum have high HCN potential, and may be hazardous when found in pastures and fence rows.&nbsp;Plant Age. Sorghum age has a significant effect on dhurrin content. Plants have larger amounts of dhurrin in the early growth stages or early regrowth. Older plants, however, can increase HCN potential as a result of environmental factors, as described below. Delay grazing until the plants have reached a height of 18 to 24 inches to avoid HCN toxicity under good growing conditions.&nbsp;Tissue Type. The vegetative portion of all sorghums can contain dhurrin. HCN potential varies within a single sorghum plant depending on the plant tissue. Tillers, commonly called shoots, can contain a large amount of dhurrin, too. Examine fields for the presence of young tillers on more mature sorghum plants.&nbsp;Drought. In the western and southern United States, ingestion of sorghum species during drought can cause cyanide toxicity in livestock. Nitrate levels also can be high in drought-stressed plants.Frost. Sorghum can become stressed in frost conditions leading to an increase in dhurrin. It is important to remove livestock from sorghum when a frost is predicted. After a frost, keep livestock off frosted sorghum plants for at least one week. This recommendation is a rolling suggestion, meaning that every time another frost occurs, livestock should be removed from the frosted plants for another week, until the plants have been completely killed with a hard frost. After a non-killing frost, sorghum should be scouted for regrowth because it can contain a large amount of HCN. If regrowth is apparent, you should wait 10 to 14 days or until the regrowth has reached 24 inches tall before grazing or chopping.&nbsp;Nitrogen Application. Overfertilization with nitrogen can cause the crop to be toxic by two different mechanisms, HCN potential and nitrate concentration.&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: Characteristics affecting dhurrin content and HCN potential

Farmers are preparing for planting their next wheat crop this coming Fall. And some of you may be considering choosing a new variety to plant. If so KSRE has several resources available to help you out. You can go to our Cottonwood Extension District web site at www.cottonwood.ksu.edu, click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and then look under Hot Topics for the Barton and Ellis County wheat demonstration plot results as a starting place. 

The Barton County results are not posted yet, because I do not have the results back from the K-State Extension Agronomy/Wheat team who put the test in and harvested it. However, I would not base my decisions on the results of un-replicated Count agent demonstration plots. They are used more as a platform to hold a field day each year and discuss the varieties strengths and weaknesses.

Instead, I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based more on K-State Agricultural Research Centers replicated wheat performance tests, and any companies replicated tests as well.

These results from the Agricultural Research Centers can also be found on our web site, under Hot Topics section. Another resource under Hot Topics is the Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2022. It has been renamed, it was formerly called the Wheat Variety Disease &amp; Insect Ratings. And lastly Colorado State University has a wheat variety database that provides complete access to variety trial results in Colorado and several other Great Plains states including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data. You can look at single location trial data, multiple location trial data and do Head-to-Head Comparisons of varieties. The link to the Colorado Wheat Variety Decision tool is also under the Hot Topics section on our web site.

So, farmers to find all of those useful decision aid tools in helping you to choose a possible new wheat variety to plant this Fall. Go to www.cottonwood.ksu.edu or simply type into your internet browser, Cottonwood Extension, then click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics.

<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>Farmers are preparing for planting their next wheat crop this coming Fall. And some of you may be considering choosing a new variety to plant. If so KSRE has several resources available to help you out. You can go to our Cottonwood Extension District web site at www.cottonwood.ksu.edu, click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and then look under Hot Topics for the Barton and Ellis County wheat demonstration plot results as a starting place. The Barton County results are not posted yet, because I do not have the results back from the K-State Extension Agronomy/Wheat team who put the test in and harvested it. However, I would not base my decisions on the results of un-replicated Count agent demonstration plots. They are used more as a platform to hold a field day each year and discuss the varieties strengths and weaknesses.Instead, I would highly encourage growers to make your variety selection decisions based more on K-State Agricultural Research Centers replicated wheat performance tests, and any companies replicated tests as well.These results from the Agricultural Research Centers can also be found on our web site, under Hot Topics section. Another resource under Hot Topics is the Kansas Wheat Variety Guide 2022. It has been renamed, it was formerly called the Wheat Variety Disease &amp; Insect Ratings. And lastly Colorado State University has a wheat variety database that provides complete access to variety trial results in Colorado and several other Great Plains states including Kansas. The database also includes private company trial data. You can look at single location trial data, multiple location trial data and do Head-to-Head Comparisons of varieties. The link to the Colorado Wheat Variety Decision tool is also under the Hot Topics section on our web site.So, farmers to find all of those useful decision aid tools in helping you to choose a possible new wheat variety to plant this Fall. Go to www.cottonwood.ksu.edu or simply type into your internet browser, Cottonwood Extension, then click onto the Crops and Livestock tab and look under Hot Topics.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: Wheat variety selection resources

If you have traveled the highways that are marked as Adventure Cycling routes, (route 76) you have no doubt encountered an increasing number of cyclists riding across the country. Since I am an avid cyclist, it is fun to see where the cyclists are from and where they are going. The Central Baptist Church bicycle campground, located in a grassy area just a block from 10th and Harrison, in Great Bend, provides an oasis for weary travelers.

The cyclists’ reasons for trekking across the country vary. Some are taking a leave of absence from a high-pressure job, while others are just figuring out what the next chapter of their life will be. So far this summer we have met solo riders as well as small groups, from across the country and several foreign countries. Our most recent campground guest was Alfrons, from Austria. He arrived in Great Bend on a very hot day last week. He was delighted to find a re-charging station, bike repair station, a hand pump water well, shelter, picnic tables and a porta-potty at the bicycle campground. All of the improvements have happened as a result of community partnerships being formed and small grants to pay for the improvements.

In late June, a group of four young ladies found our campground on Google maps. Three had been college roommates in upstate New York, several years ago and the fourth rider was from France. She had joined the group when they were riding on the Katy trail in Missouri. The young ladies exuded happiness and had such a positive outlook despite broiling heat and the summer Kansas wind.

Mark Thursday, July 28th at 9:30 AM on your calendar and plan to stop by the campground at 3301 Lakin Avenue. Central Kansas Partnership is hosting the Chamber of Commerce Coffee that morning and want to share with the community what improvements have been added to the campground. Each task force that makes up the Central Kansas Partnership will highlight the work they are doing to make Great Bend a better place to live, work and play.

The task forces that will be highlighted during the July 28th coffee include Be Well Barton County, Rise Up, Breastfeeding Coalition, Youth Crew, Suicide Prevention and Famer’s Market. Refreshments and door prizes will help to make it a fun event. If you would like to get involved with any of the task forces I mentioned above, give me a call and I will connect you with the leader.

Perhaps we should all take note of the cyclists’ positive outlook and find more joy in simple pleasures. While the campground amenities are not fancy, they provide just what our guests need. I look forward to seeing you on the 28th!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; 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 District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have traveled the highways that are marked as Adventure Cycling routes, (route 76) you have no doubt encountered an increasing number of cyclists riding across the country. Since I am an avid cyclist, it is fun to see where the cyclists are from and where they are going. The Central Baptist Church bicycle campground, located in a grassy area just a block from 10th and Harrison, in Great Bend, provides an oasis for weary travelers.The cyclists’ reasons for trekking across the country vary. Some are taking a leave of absence from a high-pressure job, while others are just figuring out what the next chapter of their life will be. So far this summer we have met solo riders as well as small groups, from across the country and several foreign countries. Our most recent campground guest was Alfrons, from Austria. He arrived in Great Bend on a very hot day last week. He was delighted to find a re-charging station, bike repair station, a hand pump water well, shelter, picnic tables and a porta-potty at the bicycle campground. All of the improvements have happened as a result of community partnerships being formed and small grants to pay for the improvements.In late June, a group of four young ladies found our campground on Google maps. Three had been college roommates in upstate New York, several years ago and the fourth rider was from France. She had joined the group when they were riding on the Katy trail in Missouri. The young ladies exuded happiness and had such a positive outlook despite broiling heat and the summer Kansas wind.Mark Thursday, July 28th at 9:30 AM on your calendar and plan to stop by the campground at 3301 Lakin Avenue. Central Kansas Partnership is hosting the Chamber of Commerce Coffee that morning and want to share with the community what improvements have been added to the campground. Each task force that makes up the Central Kansas Partnership will highlight the work they are doing to make Great Bend a better place to live, work and play.The task forces that will be highlighted during the July 28th coffee include Be Well Barton County, Rise Up, Breastfeeding Coalition, Youth Crew, Suicide Prevention and Famer’s Market. Refreshments and door prizes will help to make it a fun event. If you would like to get involved with any of the task forces I mentioned above, give me a call and I will connect you with the leader.Perhaps we should all take note of the cyclists’ positive outlook and find more joy in simple pleasures. While the campground amenities are not fancy, they provide just what our guests need. I look forward to seeing you on the 28th!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Church campground welcomes cyclists to Great Bend

One of the most important clues in determining the health of your trees is the amount of new growth that tree produces. A healthy tree should have a minimum of 4 to 6 inches of new growth each year. Check branches with the tips in the open and not shaded by the tree itself. Anything less than 4 inches on the majority of branches suggests the tree is under a great deal of stress.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

So how do you tell where the new growth stops? Look for a color change in the stem. New growth is often greener than that from the previous year. There is also often an area of what looks like compressed growth where growth transitions from one year to the next.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Lastly, look at leaf attachment. Leaves are only produced on current season's growth. Therefore, new growth stops where leaves are no longer attached directly to the twig but to side branches. However, pay attention as leaves may be appear to be attached directly to last year's growth but are actually borne on short spurs. If you look closely, you can tell the difference.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

All this clue tells you is whether a tree is under stress or not. It does not tell you what is causing poor growth.&nbsp; Stress is cumulative.&nbsp; In other words, trees may not have completely recovered from stressful conditions (such as drought) that occurred within the last several years.&nbsp; The accumulating stress may have damaged root systems with further damage occurring due to the dry soils last fall and winter.&nbsp; These trees may struggle as we enter summer. Though the roots were able to keep up with moisture demands during the cooler spring weather, they may not be able to as temperatures rise. Such trees may suddenly collapse and die or slough off branches they can no longer support. If possible, water to a depth of 12 inches every couple of weeks we do not receive rain in order to avoid further stress.&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>One of the most important clues in determining the health of your trees is the amount of new growth that tree produces. A healthy tree should have a minimum of 4 to 6 inches of new growth each year. Check branches with the tips in the open and not shaded by the tree itself. Anything less than 4 inches on the majority of branches suggests the tree is under a great deal of stress.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; So how do you tell where the new growth stops? Look for a color change in the stem. New growth is often greener than that from the previous year. There is also often an area of what looks like compressed growth where growth transitions from one year to the next.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Lastly, look at leaf attachment. Leaves are only produced on current season's growth. Therefore, new growth stops where leaves are no longer attached directly to the twig but to side branches. However, pay attention as leaves may be appear to be attached directly to last year's growth but are actually borne on short spurs. If you look closely, you can tell the difference.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; All this clue tells you is whether a tree is under stress or not. It does not tell you what is causing poor growth.&nbsp; Stress is cumulative.&nbsp; In other words, trees may not have completely recovered from stressful conditions (such as drought) that occurred within the last several years.&nbsp; The accumulating stress may have damaged root systems with further damage occurring due to the dry soils last fall and winter.&nbsp; These trees may struggle as we enter summer. Though the roots were able to keep up with moisture demands during the cooler spring weather, they may not be able to as temperatures rise. Such trees may suddenly collapse and die or slough off branches they can no longer support. If possible, water to a depth of 12 inches every couple of weeks we do not receive rain in order to avoid further stress.&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: How healthy is my tree? 

As the calendar moves through the summer months and postemergence herbicides are applied to late-planted crops, it’s a good time to review some research on the effects of high temperatures on Group 27 herbicides. Research conducted a few years ago, led by Drs. Mithila Jugulam and Curt Thompson, focused on Palmer amaranth control by mesotrione (Callisto, others). However, the results they reported may explain some poor control being observed following recent applications of Group 27 herbicides like topramezone (Impact, others) or pyrasulfotole (Huskie, others) in populations that are believed to be susceptible to Group 27 herbicides.

The results of the research show that when Callisto was applied at ‘low’ temperatures (77 degrees F daytime high and 59 degrees nighttime low. Palmer amaranth was controlled by the lowest herbicide rate included in the study (about 0.75 fl oz/A). However, when Callisto was applied at ‘high’ temperatures (104 degrees F daytime high and 86 degrees nighttime low. Palmer amaranth was not controlled by the highest rate of Callisto used in the study (3 fl oz/A). 

These application rates do not necessarily agree with field use rates, because lower herbicide rates are often used in greenhouse or growth chamber studies such as these to account for more ‘tender’ plants that are controlled more easily than plants grown in field conditions. 

The research described two key changes in Palmer amaranth that cause reduced control. First, Palmer amaranth metabolized mesotrione faster at higher temperatures. This means the herbicide gets degraded faster when temperatures are high, making the herbicide less effective. Second, the HPPD enzyme, which is the target site for Group 27 herbicides, had increased activity at high temperatures, making it easier for the plant to overcome the effects of mesotrione.

For maximum effectiveness, Group 27 herbicides should be applied under the coolest conditions possible. It is very likely that other pigweed species such as waterhemp and other Group 27 herbicides, including tembotrione (Laudis), tolpyralate (Shieldex), topramezone (Impact), Balance Flexx (isoxaflutole), and pyrasulfatole (Huskie) will react the same way as Palmer amaranth to mesotrione.

Information provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Management specialist and Mithila Jugulam, K-State Weed Physiologist.

<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 calendar moves through the summer months and postemergence herbicides are applied to late-planted crops, it’s a good time to review some research on the effects of high temperatures on Group 27 herbicides. Research conducted a few years ago, led by Drs. Mithila Jugulam and Curt Thompson, focused on Palmer amaranth control by mesotrione (Callisto, others). However, the results they reported may explain some poor control being observed following recent applications of Group 27 herbicides like topramezone (Impact, others) or pyrasulfotole (Huskie, others) in populations that are believed to be susceptible to Group 27 herbicides.The results of the research show that when Callisto was applied at ‘low’ temperatures (77 degrees F daytime high and 59 degrees nighttime low. Palmer amaranth was controlled by the lowest herbicide rate included in the study (about 0.75 fl oz/A). However, when Callisto was applied at ‘high’ temperatures (104 degrees F daytime high and 86 degrees nighttime low. Palmer amaranth was not controlled by the highest rate of Callisto used in the study (3 fl oz/A). These application rates do not necessarily agree with field use rates, because lower herbicide rates are often used in greenhouse or growth chamber studies such as these to account for more ‘tender’ plants that are controlled more easily than plants grown in field conditions. The research described two key changes in Palmer amaranth that cause reduced control. First, Palmer amaranth metabolized mesotrione faster at higher temperatures. This means the herbicide gets degraded faster when temperatures are high, making the herbicide less effective. Second, the HPPD enzyme, which is the target site for Group 27 herbicides, had increased activity at high temperatures, making it easier for the plant to overcome the effects of mesotrione.For maximum effectiveness, Group 27 herbicides should be applied under the coolest conditions possible. It is very likely that other pigweed species such as waterhemp and other Group 27 herbicides, including tembotrione (Laudis), tolpyralate (Shieldex), topramezone (Impact), Balance Flexx (isoxaflutole), and pyrasulfatole (Huskie) will react the same way as Palmer amaranth to mesotrione.Information provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Management specialist and Mithila Jugulam, K-State Weed Physiologist.

CAMPBELL: High temps reduce effectiveness of Group 27 herbicides

This past week was filled with the sights and sounds of the Barton County Fair.

For 4-H members, this is an opportunity to showcase the project learning they have been engaged in all year! There were exhibits on beautiful woodworking, carefully constructed outfits, cakes and pies and cookies – Oh My!

It is also an opportunity for youth to share fun, laughter, and some commiseration with one another. Some of my favorite moments include youth preparing for Round Robin. To qualify for the Round Robin competition, you must be selected as the top showman or woman in your age division and species. They then show all of the animals within their Round Robin division. For our large animal, youth take turns showing a sheep, meat goat, horse, beef, and pig. For our small animal, youth take turns showing a dairy goat, dog, rabbit, chicken, and bucket calf. You may be really good at showing your rabbit but that doesn’t mean you have any idea what to do with the bucket calf. Knowing that they will compete against one another, youth will volunteer to show someone how to show their animal to help everyone do their best!

During the Beef Show on Friday the judge remarked on one of the older 4-H members who was assisting young members in the ring and how impressed he was with that steady assistance. The Horse Show judge on Saturday commented on how impressed she was with the camaraderie and help from horse team members and their families throughout the event. They cheered one another on and sometimes, cheered one another up!

Another of my favorite moments happened as I walked through the barn. Two young men were playing a game of cornhole; one is 15 and the other is 10. They were chatting away as they enjoyed some downtime and I hope that they both remember that afternoon as a fun time with a friend.

There are also some tears. Sometimes the heat and schedule get the best of us, and we just need to have a moment, know that people still support us, and move forward. What wonderful life skills we can teach in those moments!

Putting together an event of this size takes incredible teamwork from the Barton County Fair Association and Cottonwood Extension to the massive number of volunteers to write comments, and set up pens, and tables, and chairs, and display cases, and flags….and the list goes on and on. I am so proud to be a partner in this crazy week we call FAIR!

<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>And That’s a Wrap!This past week was filled with the sights and sounds of the Barton County Fair.For 4-H members, this is an opportunity to showcase the project learning they have been engaged in all year! There were exhibits on beautiful woodworking, carefully constructed outfits, cakes and pies and cookies – Oh My!It is also an opportunity for youth to share fun, laughter, and some commiseration with one another. Some of my favorite moments include youth preparing for Round Robin. To qualify for the Round Robin competition, you must be selected as the top showman or woman in your age division and species. They then show all of the animals within their Round Robin division. For our large animal, youth take turns showing a sheep, meat goat, horse, beef, and pig. For our small animal, youth take turns showing a dairy goat, dog, rabbit, chicken, and bucket calf. You may be really good at showing your rabbit but that doesn’t mean you have any idea what to do with the bucket calf. Knowing that they will compete against one another, youth will volunteer to show someone how to show their animal to help everyone do their best!During the Beef Show on Friday the judge remarked on one of the older 4-H members who was assisting young members in the ring and how impressed he was with that steady assistance. The Horse Show judge on Saturday commented on how impressed she was with the camaraderie and help from horse team members and their families throughout the event. They cheered one another on and sometimes, cheered one another up!Another of my favorite moments happened as I walked through the barn. Two young men were playing a game of cornhole; one is 15 and the other is 10. They were chatting away as they enjoyed some downtime and I hope that they both remember that afternoon as a fun time with a friend.There are also some tears. Sometimes the heat and schedule get the best of us, and we just need to have a moment, know that people still support us, and move forward. What wonderful life skills we can teach in those moments!Putting together an event of this size takes incredible teamwork from the Barton County Fair Association and Cottonwood Extension to the massive number of volunteers to write comments, and set up pens, and tables, and chairs, and display cases, and flags….and the list goes on and on. I am so proud to be a partner in this crazy week we call FAIR!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: That's a wrap on the Barton Co. Fair

Summer temperatures have arrived, if you are planning herbicide applications, here are some things to consider when applying herbicides during hot weather; provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Specialist.

Heat or drought stress slows plant growth processes. This is especially important for systemic herbicides such as glyphosate and grass-killing herbicides like clethodim (Select) or quizalofop (Assure). As temperatures increase above 85°F, many plants begin to slow or stop metabolic processes that move herbicides throughout the plant. Notable exceptions to this rule are HPPD-inhibiting herbicides like Callisto or Balance Flexx. Palmer amaranth plants are able to overcome applications of these herbicides when applied at high temperatures (90°F and greater).

Management: In general, applying systemic herbicides early in the morning, after plants have had a chance to recover from heat stress, will give the best chance for the herbicide to reach the active site and effectively kill weeds.

Leaves change in response to heat. In order to prevent water loss, plant cuticles become waxier in response to heat or drought stress. The greater wax content makes it more difficult for water-based spray solutions to penetrate the plant. In addition, the leaf angle of many plants changes in response to heat or drought stress. Often, this results in less herbicide contacting the leaf surface to enter the plant.

Management: Using maximum labeled rates of herbicides and surfactants can help get more spray solution into the plant, increasing effectiveness. Spraying during the cooler parts of the day will reduce the impact of altered leaf angle.

Crop response to foliar applied, non-translocated herbicides is greater in hot temperatures. When applied in hot, humid conditions, contact herbicides, such as Cobra, Liberty, or Reflex will likely result in greater foliar injury to crops, but also greater weed control.

Management: If possible, postpone application of these herbicides if temperatures are over 90°F. If weed size requires immediate herbicide application, reduce the rate of herbicide and adjuvant, and apply later in the day, when the air temperature will decrease after application.

Herbicide volatility increases with high temperatures and low humidity. Herbicides in group four, such as dicamba and 2,4-D are prone to volatility, which means the herbicide becomes a vapor and can move long distances with slight breezes. Volatility of these herbicides increases as temperature rise above 60°F and is greatest at temperatures above 90°F.

Management: Avoid applying these herbicides when temperatures are over 90°F. This may occur during morning or late afternoon hours, when temperature inversions are likely to occur. Herbicides should not be sprayed during inversions, when small spray droplets can become trapped in a layer of cooler air near the earth’s surface.Use larger spray droplets to reduce evaporation, which can be accomplished by reducing spray pressure or increasing nozzle orifice size.

Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/7/1657034182219.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Summer temperatures have arrived, if you are planning herbicide applications, here are some things to consider when applying herbicides during hot weather; provided by Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Specialist.Heat or drought stress slows plant growth processes. This is especially important for systemic herbicides such as glyphosate and grass-killing herbicides like clethodim (Select) or quizalofop (Assure). As temperatures increase above 85°F, many plants begin to slow or stop metabolic processes that move herbicides throughout the plant. Notable exceptions to this rule are HPPD-inhibiting herbicides like Callisto or Balance Flexx. Palmer amaranth plants are able to overcome applications of these herbicides when applied at high temperatures (90°F and greater).Management: In general, applying systemic herbicides early in the morning, after plants have had a chance to recover from heat stress, will give the best chance for the herbicide to reach the active site and effectively kill weeds.Leaves change in response to heat. In order to prevent water loss, plant cuticles become waxier in response to heat or drought stress. The greater wax content makes it more difficult for water-based spray solutions to penetrate the plant. In addition, the leaf angle of many plants changes in response to heat or drought stress. Often, this results in less herbicide contacting the leaf surface to enter the plant.Management: Using maximum labeled rates of herbicides and surfactants can help get more spray solution into the plant, increasing effectiveness. Spraying during the cooler parts of the day will reduce the impact of altered leaf angle.Crop response to foliar applied, non-translocated herbicides is greater in hot temperatures. When applied in hot, humid conditions, contact herbicides, such as Cobra, Liberty, or Reflex will likely result in greater foliar injury to crops, but also greater weed control.Management: If possible, postpone application of these herbicides if temperatures are over 90°F. If weed size requires immediate herbicide application, reduce the rate of herbicide and adjuvant, and apply later in the day, when the air temperature will decrease after application.Herbicide volatility increases with high temperatures and low humidity. Herbicides in group four, such as dicamba and 2,4-D are prone to volatility, which means the herbicide becomes a vapor and can move long distances with slight breezes. Volatility of these herbicides increases as temperature rise above 60°F and is greatest at temperatures above 90°F.Management: Avoid applying these herbicides when temperatures are over 90°F. This may occur during morning or late afternoon hours, when temperature inversions are likely to occur. Herbicides should not be sprayed during inversions, when small spray droplets can become trapped in a layer of cooler air near the earth’s surface.Use larger spray droplets to reduce evaporation, which can be accomplished by reducing spray pressure or increasing nozzle orifice size.Stacy Campbell 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 him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Herbicide applications and high temperatures

This is the time of year that gardeners often have trouble with vegetables that are blooming but not setting fruit.&nbsp; There are several possible reasons for this. One condition that can affect several species is overfertilization. Too much nitrogen causes the plant to emphasize vegetative growth, often to the detriment of fruit production.&nbsp; Overfertilization can lead to a delay in flower production and a decrease in fruit set among the flowers produced.&nbsp; This is especially true of tomatoes.&nbsp; Overfertilized tomatoes will produce a large, apparently healthy plant with no flowers or with flowers that don't set fruit.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another possible problem with tomatoes setting fruit is temperature. Tomatoes normally won't set if the night temperature is below 50 due to sparse pollen production. They also won't set when nighttime temperatures are above 75 degrees F and daytime temperatures are above 95 degrees F with dry, hot winds.&nbsp; Under such conditions, fertilization is not completed and no fruit develops.&nbsp; However, cherry tomatoes may be more forgiving of high temperatures than the larger slicers and will often set fruit in the heat.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Squash, cucumbers, watermelon, and muskmelon can have a couple of other problems. First, the early flowers on these plants are usually all male. The production of both male and female flowers becomes more balanced as time passes. You can easily tell the difference between the two because only the female flower has a tiny fruit behind the blossom. If you have both, have not over-fertilized, and still have a problem, make sure you have pollinators.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Look for the presence of bees visiting the plants. If you don't see any, try hand-pollinating several flowers.&nbsp; Use a painter's brush to transfer pollen from the anther of the male flower to the stigma of the female flower. If you get fruit on only those flowers you pollinated, you need more pollinators.&nbsp; Make sure you aren't killing them with overuse of insecticides.&nbsp; If you must use an insecticide, spray near dusk when the flowers have closed.&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>This is the time of year that gardeners often have trouble with vegetables that are blooming but not setting fruit.&nbsp; There are several possible reasons for this. One condition that can affect several species is overfertilization. Too much nitrogen causes the plant to emphasize vegetative growth, often to the detriment of fruit production.&nbsp; Overfertilization can lead to a delay in flower production and a decrease in fruit set among the flowers produced.&nbsp; This is especially true of tomatoes.&nbsp; Overfertilized tomatoes will produce a large, apparently healthy plant with no flowers or with flowers that don't set fruit.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Another possible problem with tomatoes setting fruit is temperature. Tomatoes normally won't set if the night temperature is below 50 due to sparse pollen production. They also won't set when nighttime temperatures are above 75 degrees F and daytime temperatures are above 95 degrees F with dry, hot winds.&nbsp; Under such conditions, fertilization is not completed and no fruit develops.&nbsp; However, cherry tomatoes may be more forgiving of high temperatures than the larger slicers and will often set fruit in the heat.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Squash, cucumbers, watermelon, and muskmelon can have a couple of other problems. First, the early flowers on these plants are usually all male. The production of both male and female flowers becomes more balanced as time passes. You can easily tell the difference between the two because only the female flower has a tiny fruit behind the blossom. If you have both, have not over-fertilized, and still have a problem, make sure you have pollinators.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Look for the presence of bees visiting the plants. If you don't see any, try hand-pollinating several flowers.&nbsp; Use a painter's brush to transfer pollen from the anther of the male flower to the stigma of the female flower. If you get fruit on only those flowers you pollinated, you need more pollinators.&nbsp; Make sure you aren't killing them with overuse of insecticides.&nbsp; If you must use an insecticide, spray near dusk when the flowers have closed.&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: Setting fruit

July is here that can mean just one thing – it is time for the Barton County Fair. When I started my Extension career in Barton County our fair was held in late July/early August. When we switched to a Fair that welcomed both 4-H and open exhibits, the schedule shifted to an earlier start date. It was an adjustment the first few years, but I would venture to say that now it would be hard to revert to a fair in late summer.

Last week Michelle shared a bit about pre-fair events that have already been completed. Today, my goal is to encourage your participation in the Fair by exhibiting an item or two. I know many of you who are reading this enjoy hobbies of photography, woodworking, baking, fiber arts or others. It is a simple process to enter something in the Fair. Of course, today many things are accomplished on-line. If that is not your thing, you can bring your items to the Expo area west of Great Bend on 10th Street and someone will help you with the process.

Check-in of open class exhibits except perishables like food and horticulture is set for Wednesday, July 6th, from 8 AM to noon and 6 – 7 PM. Thursday, July 7th, from 8 AM to 9:30 AM, food, horticulture and crop exhibits will come in.

Some special events you won’t want to miss include the Business Appreciation Breakfast and Chamber Coffee set to begin at 7:30 AM on Thursday, July 7th, in Expo II. The Dick Dougherty family serves up a full breakfast including pancakes and sausage and 4-H clubs donate some great door prizes.

An event I am helping organize is the Family Fun Bike ride set for Saturday, July 9th, from 8-9 AM. This is our second time to offer this fun and educational event to encourage families to bike together and focus on safety. I have over 40 helmets for riders of all ages to give away on a first come first served basis. The bike ride will be held on the runway just west of the Great Bend Armory.

Don’t miss out on any of the fun events I have mentioned. A full schedule of all of the livestock shows, concerts and can be found on the bartoncountyfair.com website.

I’m looking forward seeing you at the Fair!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; 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 District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>July is here that can mean just one thing – it is time for the Barton County Fair. When I started my Extension career in Barton County our fair was held in late July/early August. When we switched to a Fair that welcomed both 4-H and open exhibits, the schedule shifted to an earlier start date. It was an adjustment the first few years, but I would venture to say that now it would be hard to revert to a fair in late summer.Last week Michelle shared a bit about pre-fair events that have already been completed. Today, my goal is to encourage your participation in the Fair by exhibiting an item or two. I know many of you who are reading this enjoy hobbies of photography, woodworking, baking, fiber arts or others. It is a simple process to enter something in the Fair. Of course, today many things are accomplished on-line. If that is not your thing, you can bring your items to the Expo area west of Great Bend on 10th Street and someone will help you with the process.Check-in of open class exhibits except perishables like food and horticulture is set for Wednesday, July 6th, from 8 AM to noon and 6 – 7 PM. Thursday, July 7th, from 8 AM to 9:30 AM, food, horticulture and crop exhibits will come in.Some special events you won’t want to miss include the Business Appreciation Breakfast and Chamber Coffee set to begin at 7:30 AM on Thursday, July 7th, in Expo II. The Dick Dougherty family serves up a full breakfast including pancakes and sausage and 4-H clubs donate some great door prizes.An event I am helping organize is the Family Fun Bike ride set for Saturday, July 9th, from 8-9 AM. This is our second time to offer this fun and educational event to encourage families to bike together and focus on safety. I have over 40 helmets for riders of all ages to give away on a first come first served basis. The bike ride will be held on the runway just west of the Great Bend Armory.Don’t miss out on any of the fun events I have mentioned. A full schedule of all of the livestock shows, concerts and can be found on the bartoncountyfair.com website.I’m looking forward seeing you at the Fair!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Fair season is here

It’s Fair time again in Barton County! Youth from all of our communities have been working hard on their various projects, and will be displaying them for the community to see.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whether you enjoy photography, artwork, or livestock, there is something for everyone at the fair. &nbsp;

I tend to spend most of my time in Expo 3 with the livestock and the 4-Hers that are responsible for them. All animals must be acquired for the fair by May 1st&nbsp;to be eligible for the shows. The children then for the next several months are responsible for their care and training to prepare them for showing. This requires a lot of time and effort to have an animal ready in time. Animals, when they are brought home, may not be accustomed to being handled by humans or being in close contact with them. It is the child that then calms them down and gets them used to a human presence close up. For some animals, that is being trained to a halter and walking with someone. For others, such as hogs, they need to be trained to walk calmly in a ring with other animals, guided by a small whip. The children work tirelessly making sure that their animals are at the weight they need to be, and are clean and calm for show day. Some of the children in the project even attend classes and workshops to learn how to be a better show-person in the ring. What you are seeing when you make it out to the fair is the culmination of all that hard work and effort.&nbsp;

All of this hard work is a valuable learning experience for the 4-Hers that will help them out later in life. By learning life skills early, they are better equipped to handle situations as adults such as speaking confidentially to a group, preparing for an upcoming job, and time management to effectively finish a project. The real world is tough but 4-H and the projects that they complete for the fair help the children prepare for the world when they grow up. &nbsp;

The Fair starts July 6th&nbsp;and runs through the 10th. Come out and support the youth of our communities and see what projects they have on display. It’s a fun filled 5 days of the children showing off all of their hard work, and an enjoyable time for the entire family. For a schedule of events, you can go to bartoncountyfair.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope to see you all there!&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>It’s Fair time again in Barton County! Youth from all of our communities have been working hard on their various projects, and will be displaying them for the community to see.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whether you enjoy photography, artwork, or livestock, there is something for everyone at the fair. &nbsp;I tend to spend most of my time in Expo 3 with the livestock and the 4-Hers that are responsible for them. All animals must be acquired for the fair by May 1st&nbsp;to be eligible for the shows. The children then for the next several months are responsible for their care and training to prepare them for showing. This requires a lot of time and effort to have an animal ready in time. Animals, when they are brought home, may not be accustomed to being handled by humans or being in close contact with them. It is the child that then calms them down and gets them used to a human presence close up. For some animals, that is being trained to a halter and walking with someone. For others, such as hogs, they need to be trained to walk calmly in a ring with other animals, guided by a small whip. The children work tirelessly making sure that their animals are at the weight they need to be, and are clean and calm for show day. Some of the children in the project even attend classes and workshops to learn how to be a better show-person in the ring. What you are seeing when you make it out to the fair is the culmination of all that hard work and effort.&nbsp;All of this hard work is a valuable learning experience for the 4-Hers that will help them out later in life. By learning life skills early, they are better equipped to handle situations as adults such as speaking confidentially to a group, preparing for an upcoming job, and time management to effectively finish a project. The real world is tough but 4-H and the projects that they complete for the fair help the children prepare for the world when they grow up. &nbsp;The Fair starts July 6th&nbsp;and runs through the 10th. Come out and support the youth of our communities and see what projects they have on display. It’s a fun filled 5 days of the children showing off all of their hard work, and an enjoyable time for the entire family. For a schedule of events, you can go to bartoncountyfair.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;We hope to see you all there!&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: It's Fair time again in Barton Co.

Plant analysis is an excellent in-season “quality control” tool. It can be especially valuable for managing secondary and micronutrients that do not have high-quality, reliable soil tests available, and for providing insight into how efficiently you are using applied nutrients.

Plant analysis can be used by Kansas farmers in two basic ways: for diagnostic purposes, and for monitoring nutrient levels at a common growth stage. Diagnostics can be done any time and is especially valuable early in the season when corrective actions can easily be taken. Monitoring is generally done at the beginning of reproductive growth.

· Plants are less than 12 inches tall: Collect the whole plant; cut the plant off at ground level.

· Plants more than 12 inches tall and until reproductive growth begins: Collect the top fully developed leaves (those which show leaf collars).

· After reproductive growth starts: Collect the ear leaves (below the uppermost developing ear), samples should be collected at random from the field at silk emergence.

Plant analysis for nutrient monitoring - for general monitoring or quality control purposes, plant leaves should be collected as the plant enters reproductive growth. Sampling under stress conditions for monitoring purposes can give misleading results, and is not recommended. Stresses such as drought or saturated soils will generally limit nutrient uptake, and result in a general reduction in nutrient content in the plant.

What nutrients should be included in the plant analysis? In Kansas, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), zinc (Zn), chloride (Cl), and iron (Fe) are the nutrients most likely to be found deficient. Recently, questions have been raised concerning copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo), though widespread deficiencies of those micronutrients have not been found in the state. Normally the best values are the “bundles” or “packages” of tests offered through many of the labs. They can be as simple as N, P and K, or can be all the mineral elements considered essential to plants. K-State offers a package which includes N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn.

What will you get back from the lab? The data returned from the lab will be reported as the concentration of nutrient elements, or potentially toxic elements, in the plants. Units reported will normally be in “percent” for the primary and secondary nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, and

Cl) and “ppm” (parts per million) for most of the micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, B, Mo, and Al).

Most labs/agronomists compare plant nutrient concentrations to published sufficiency ranges. A sufficiency range is simply the range of concentrations normally found in healthy, productive plants during surveys. It can be thought of as the range of values optimum for plant growth. The medical profession uses a similar range of normal values to evaluate blood work. The sufficiency ranges change with plant age (generally being higher in young plants), vary between plant parts, and can differ between hybrids. A value slightly below the sufficiency range does not always mean the plant is deficient in that nutrient. It is an indication that the nutrient is relatively low. Values on the low end of the range are common in extremely high-yielding crops. However, if that nutrient is significantly below the sufficiency range, you should ask some serious questions about the availability and supply of that nutrient.

To read the full article on how to how best take and ship the plant leaves, more about plant stress and nutrient uptake, extreme levels of nutrients and the range of nutrient contents considered “normal” or “sufficient” at two growth stages in corn go to www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1656354567378.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Plant analysis is an excellent in-season “quality control” tool. It can be especially valuable for managing secondary and micronutrients that do not have high-quality, reliable soil tests available, and for providing insight into how efficiently you are using applied nutrients.Plant analysis can be used by Kansas farmers in two basic ways: for diagnostic purposes, and for monitoring nutrient levels at a common growth stage. Diagnostics can be done any time and is especially valuable early in the season when corrective actions can easily be taken. Monitoring is generally done at the beginning of reproductive growth.General sampling guidelines:· Plants are less than 12 inches tall: Collect the whole plant; cut the plant off at ground level.· Plants more than 12 inches tall and until reproductive growth begins: Collect the top fully developed leaves (those which show leaf collars).· After reproductive growth starts: Collect the ear leaves (below the uppermost developing ear), samples should be collected at random from the field at silk emergence.Plant analysis for nutrient monitoring - for general monitoring or quality control purposes, plant leaves should be collected as the plant enters reproductive growth. Sampling under stress conditions for monitoring purposes can give misleading results, and is not recommended. Stresses such as drought or saturated soils will generally limit nutrient uptake, and result in a general reduction in nutrient content in the plant.What nutrients should be included in the plant analysis? In Kansas, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), zinc (Zn), chloride (Cl), and iron (Fe) are the nutrients most likely to be found deficient. Recently, questions have been raised concerning copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), and molybdenum (Mo), though widespread deficiencies of those micronutrients have not been found in the state. Normally the best values are the “bundles” or “packages” of tests offered through many of the labs. They can be as simple as N, P and K, or can be all the mineral elements considered essential to plants. K-State offers a package which includes N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Cu, Zn, and Mn.What will you get back from the lab? The data returned from the lab will be reported as the concentration of nutrient elements, or potentially toxic elements, in the plants. Units reported will normally be in “percent” for the primary and secondary nutrients (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, S, andCl) and “ppm” (parts per million) for most of the micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, B, Mo, and Al).Most labs/agronomists compare plant nutrient concentrations to published sufficiency ranges. A sufficiency range is simply the range of concentrations normally found in healthy, productive plants during surveys. It can be thought of as the range of values optimum for plant growth. The medical profession uses a similar range of normal values to evaluate blood work. The sufficiency ranges change with plant age (generally being higher in young plants), vary between plant parts, and can differ between hybrids. A value slightly below the sufficiency range does not always mean the plant is deficient in that nutrient. It is an indication that the nutrient is relatively low. Values on the low end of the range are common in extremely high-yielding crops. However, if that nutrient is significantly below the sufficiency range, you should ask some serious questions about the availability and supply of that nutrient.To read the full article on how to how best take and ship the plant leaves, more about plant stress and nutrient uptake, extreme levels of nutrients and the range of nutrient contents considered “normal” or “sufficient” at two growth stages in corn go to www.cottonwood.ksu.edu.

CAMPBELL: Plant analysis for testing nutrient levels in corn

Our 4-H Ambassadors helped me record several radio spots last week and I’d like to share their invitation with you.

The Barton County 4-H Ambassadors invite you to “Come hear the sounds of the Barton County Fair” which is happening July 6-10! You can check out the full schedule for many upcoming events at bartoncountyfair.com.

Pre-fair events have already started with the 4-H Dog Show on June 25 and our Broadway-themed Fashion Revue, Fiber Arts, and Clothing Construction Judging will be held on June 30. We have a lot of creative 4-H members who have learned new skills all year. The Public Fashion Revue is held on June 30 at 7 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church if you would like to see these young people put their skills in action.

Much of the 4-H judging will be completed on Wednesday, July 6 and that evening, we will hold the annual Youth Rally in the ring in Expo III! On Thursday, July 7, we’ll start the day with the Business Appreciation Breakfast and Great Bend Chamber Coffee. All are welcome and be sure to check out all of the great foods, photography, woodworking, entomology exhibits, and much more!

Livestock shows are a regular part of many county fairs and we invite you to check out all of the livestock. The Swine Show is Thursday at 9 am, the Horse Halter classes on Thursday at 3 pm, Bucket Calf Show is Thursday at 6, the Sheep and Goat Show on Friday at 8 am, the Beef Show is Friday, at 5, and we wrap up the shows with the Horse Show on Saturday at 8.

Be sure to make time to watch the Small and Large Animal Round Robin on Sunday beginning at 9:30. The 4-H members who are participating in Round Robin are selected as the top showmen and women of each species in their age division.

My favorite sounds are those of learning and laughter and you will hear plenty of that during the Barton County Fair!

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

<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>Our 4-H Ambassadors helped me record several radio spots last week and I’d like to share their invitation with you.The Barton County 4-H Ambassadors invite you to “Come hear the sounds of the Barton County Fair” which is happening July 6-10! You can check out the full schedule for many upcoming events at bartoncountyfair.com.Pre-fair events have already started with the 4-H Dog Show on June 25 and our Broadway-themed Fashion Revue, Fiber Arts, and Clothing Construction Judging will be held on June 30. We have a lot of creative 4-H members who have learned new skills all year. The Public Fashion Revue is held on June 30 at 7 pm at Trinity Lutheran Church if you would like to see these young people put their skills in action.Much of the 4-H judging will be completed on Wednesday, July 6 and that evening, we will hold the annual Youth Rally in the ring in Expo III! On Thursday, July 7, we’ll start the day with the Business Appreciation Breakfast and Great Bend Chamber Coffee. All are welcome and be sure to check out all of the great foods, photography, woodworking, entomology exhibits, and much more!Livestock shows are a regular part of many county fairs and we invite you to check out all of the livestock. The Swine Show is Thursday at 9 am, the Horse Halter classes on Thursday at 3 pm, Bucket Calf Show is Thursday at 6, the Sheep and Goat Show on Friday at 8 am, the Beef Show is Friday, at 5, and we wrap up the shows with the Horse Show on Saturday at 8.Be sure to make time to watch the Small and Large Animal Round Robin on Sunday beginning at 9:30. The 4-H members who are participating in Round Robin are selected as the top showmen and women of each species in their age division.My favorite sounds are those of learning and laughter and you will hear plenty of that during the Barton County Fair!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H and Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Barton County office. For more information on this article or other 4-H and Youth Development related questions, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call 620-793-1910.

BERAN: Hear The Sounds of the Barton County Fair

Beyond the standard germination test, most professional seed testing labs offer an Accelerated Aging (AA) test that will test seed for anticipated emergence vigor.

This test is very capable of identifying weak seed lots where there are issues with Fusarium head scab; heating in the bin; or smaller, development-stressed seed. Briefly, in an AA test the seed is subjected to a high temperature (106 degrees F) and high moisture stress for 72 hours before planting. This accelerates the aging process of the seed. The resulting seedlings are then counted the same as with a standard germination test. The weak seed in the population will be pushed beyond the capability of germinating into a normal seedling.

When to test: Because seed vigor will only decline over time, testing close to planting time will give the best prediction of field performance. However, if there are questions about whether there has been stress-related physiological damage to the seed, it might be best to have the AA test done shortly after harvest before investing in storage, cleaning and seed treatments.

What the results mean: Ideally the AA score should be relatively close to the standard germination score. This would mean the seed lot has the greatest capability of emerging under a wide array of field conditions. While high vigor seed will be more forgiving, it is noteworthy that much of the crop’s ultimate success also depends on management practices, such as how the seed is planted, depth of planting, whether the soil gets crusted over by a hard rain before emergence, and other factors beyond seed quality. Even high vigor seed lots may not produce satisfactory stands if field conditions are extreme.

If the seed has an AA germination score considerably lower than the standard germination test, this indicates the seed has reduced vigor and is more at risk when planted. Reduced vigor seed lots may still be planted and are capable of producing adequate stands, however producers must pay extra attention to planting conditions, planting rates and will likely benefit from the protection of a fungicide seed treatment.

The real point is that knowing seed quality is critical and producers need not necessarily dump low vigor seed, nor is high vigor seed guaranteed to make a stand under any conditions. Management practices play a big role in how well the seed performs. Producers just have to pay extra attention to their management practices and have a little extra good luck on their side if they plant seed with low AA scores.

To get an AA test on your wheat seed you can contact your local County or District Extension office or go to the Kansas Crop Improvement Association web site https://www.kscrop.org/

Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Associate Director, Kansas Crop Improvement Association.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655755839768.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Beyond the standard germination test, most professional seed testing labs offer an Accelerated Aging (AA) test that will test seed for anticipated emergence vigor.This test is very capable of identifying weak seed lots where there are issues with Fusarium head scab; heating in the bin; or smaller, development-stressed seed. Briefly, in an AA test the seed is subjected to a high temperature (106 degrees F) and high moisture stress for 72 hours before planting. This accelerates the aging process of the seed. The resulting seedlings are then counted the same as with a standard germination test. The weak seed in the population will be pushed beyond the capability of germinating into a normal seedling.When to test: Because seed vigor will only decline over time, testing close to planting time will give the best prediction of field performance. However, if there are questions about whether there has been stress-related physiological damage to the seed, it might be best to have the AA test done shortly after harvest before investing in storage, cleaning and seed treatments.What the results mean: Ideally the AA score should be relatively close to the standard germination score. This would mean the seed lot has the greatest capability of emerging under a wide array of field conditions. While high vigor seed will be more forgiving, it is noteworthy that much of the crop’s ultimate success also depends on management practices, such as how the seed is planted, depth of planting, whether the soil gets crusted over by a hard rain before emergence, and other factors beyond seed quality. Even high vigor seed lots may not produce satisfactory stands if field conditions are extreme.If the seed has an AA germination score considerably lower than the standard germination test, this indicates the seed has reduced vigor and is more at risk when planted. Reduced vigor seed lots may still be planted and are capable of producing adequate stands, however producers must pay extra attention to planting conditions, planting rates and will likely benefit from the protection of a fungicide seed treatment.The real point is that knowing seed quality is critical and producers need not necessarily dump low vigor seed, nor is high vigor seed guaranteed to make a stand under any conditions. Management practices play a big role in how well the seed performs. Producers just have to pay extra attention to their management practices and have a little extra good luck on their side if they plant seed with low AA scores.To get an AA test on your wheat seed you can contact your local County or District Extension office or go to the Kansas Crop Improvement Association web site https://www.kscrop.org/Information provided by Eric Fabrizius, Associate Director, Kansas Crop Improvement Association.

CAMPBELL: Accelerated Aging test on seed for emergence vigor

Summer brings the heat, often amplified by humidity. With recent rains across the state, much of it in drought-stricken regions, there is no shortage of higher moisture in the air. When we factor in warmer-than-normal temperatures, especially at night, heat stress can rapidly develop in humans and animals alike. The Kansas Mesonet has an&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">Animal Comfort Tool</a>&nbsp;that helps track heat stress values at each location throughout the state.&nbsp;

When heat stress develops with hot, sunny, and humid conditions, increased proactive steps are required to avoid potential illness. This is compounded when heat stress values remain elevated for long periods of time. Of special importance is the animal’s ability to recover at night. Recent record high temperatures overnight prevent the body from recovering from the previous day’s heat and can compound the next day’s stress if not mitigated.&nbsp;

Actual animal response to temperature stress will depend on a number of factors not accounted for in the index. Those include, but are not limited to: age, hair coat (winter vs summer; wet vs dry), health, body condition, micro-environment, and acclimatization. However, despite some of these unknowns, producers can evaluate the environmental conditions to livestock by using the Kansas Mesonet Animal Comfort tool.&nbsp;

Users can access this tool from the main Mesonet page by selecting from the drop-down menu on the top left of every page, Agriculture, and then Comfort Index. Also, users can access the tool directly from this link:&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/</a> &nbsp;The index is unique in that it includes, in addition to air temperature and relative humidity, effects of wind speed and solar radiation. Data from beef and dairy cattle was used in the development and validation of the index. The map indicates where current conditions fit on the scale.&nbsp;

Using the “Resources” tab on the webpage, users can learn more about the index, scale, and resulting potential impact. This also describes the colors used on the map and chart. &nbsp;

A particularly useful resource is the 7-day graph found under the “Chart” tab. This allows producers to monitor how conditions have fluctuated over the past week. Daily peaks can be expected each afternoon when temperatures are the warmest with peak solar radiation. Values then fall during the, usually cooler, overnight hours. Since stress impacts can be cumulative, having this feature allows producers to evaluate management requirements. This is especially a concern during warm overnights when values don’t drop below higher stress levels.

Unfortunately, since this information is calculated on an hourly basis, we do not keep a running archive of Animal Comfort that can be easily downloaded. From the “Download” tab, with the desired station selected, you can download the last week’s worth of data for that location. This is the same data that is displayed on the graph. If the data desired is outside the window of the last seven days, send an email request to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Kansas-wdl@ksu.edu" target="_blank">Kansas-wdl@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or one of the authors. We will pull the data and re-calculate the Animal Comfort for you.&nbsp;

K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&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>Summer brings the heat, often amplified by humidity. With recent rains across the state, much of it in drought-stricken regions, there is no shortage of higher moisture in the air. When we factor in warmer-than-normal temperatures, especially at night, heat stress can rapidly develop in humans and animals alike. The Kansas Mesonet has an&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">Animal Comfort Tool</a>&nbsp;that helps track heat stress values at each location throughout the state.&nbsp;When heat stress develops with hot, sunny, and humid conditions, increased proactive steps are required to avoid potential illness. This is compounded when heat stress values remain elevated for long periods of time. Of special importance is the animal’s ability to recover at night. Recent record high temperatures overnight prevent the body from recovering from the previous day’s heat and can compound the next day’s stress if not mitigated.&nbsp;Actual animal response to temperature stress will depend on a number of factors not accounted for in the index. Those include, but are not limited to: age, hair coat (winter vs summer; wet vs dry), health, body condition, micro-environment, and acclimatization. However, despite some of these unknowns, producers can evaluate the environmental conditions to livestock by using the Kansas Mesonet Animal Comfort tool.&nbsp;Users can access this tool from the main Mesonet page by selecting from the drop-down menu on the top left of every page, Agriculture, and then Comfort Index. Also, users can access the tool directly from this link:&nbsp;<a href="http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/" target="_blank">http://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/</a> &nbsp;The index is unique in that it includes, in addition to air temperature and relative humidity, effects of wind speed and solar radiation. Data from beef and dairy cattle was used in the development and validation of the index. The map indicates where current conditions fit on the scale.&nbsp;Using the “Resources” tab on the webpage, users can learn more about the index, scale, and resulting potential impact. This also describes the colors used on the map and chart. &nbsp;A particularly useful resource is the 7-day graph found under the “Chart” tab. This allows producers to monitor how conditions have fluctuated over the past week. Daily peaks can be expected each afternoon when temperatures are the warmest with peak solar radiation. Values then fall during the, usually cooler, overnight hours. Since stress impacts can be cumulative, having this feature allows producers to evaluate management requirements. This is especially a concern during warm overnights when values don’t drop below higher stress levels.Unfortunately, since this information is calculated on an hourly basis, we do not keep a running archive of Animal Comfort that can be easily downloaded. From the “Download” tab, with the desired station selected, you can download the last week’s worth of data for that location. This is the same data that is displayed on the graph. If the data desired is outside the window of the last seven days, send an email request to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:Kansas-wdl@ksu.edu" target="_blank">Kansas-wdl@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or one of the authors. We will pull the data and re-calculate the Animal Comfort for you.&nbsp;K-State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well-being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K-State campus in Manhattan.&nbsp;

BOOR: Cow comfort index

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

Flowers and vegetables are the standard of any garden tour. Throw in a high tunnel and some microgreens and you get the second annual Gathering of the Gardeners, presented by the K-State Research and Extension Master Gardeners. This year's tour, scheduled on June 24th from 5 to 8 p.m., includes five locations around Great Bend.

"Master Gardners is a volunteer group that has been trained by the Extentension Office," explained Sarah Shirer, president of the group. "The purpose of the group is to assist the county horticuluritists in sharing information with people in the community, helping out answering questions, that sort of thing."

Master Gardeners buy their own materials, attend 40-50 hours of training in all aspects of horticulture, then donate an equivalent number of hours back to community projects. To maintain certification after the first year, the gardeners take eight hours of continuing education and donate a minimum of 20 hours to the community.

"There's just a variety," Shirer said. "Everyone just steps in and puts their hours in on the projects that speak to them, that they're most interested in doing."

Local Master Gardeners helped reconstruct a historical garden in front of the stone house at the Barton County Historical Society, assisted with the flower pots and butterfly house at the Brit Spaugh Zoo, and work in the teaching garden on the south side of Washington Elementary School, which is included in this year's tour.

Some hobbyists complete the original training hours but do commit to the volunteer hours for the full certification. 

"You can take the course and learn the material, then not step into the organization or the commitment year after year to spend volunteer time," said Shirer. "A lot of peoples' work schedules and health concerns have kept them from stepping in fully."

A relatively new program in the Cottonwood District, Shirer estimates there are approximately a dozen active members just five years into the program.

"A lot of other counties have been building their group for years," she said. "We're getting a good foothold, figuring it out, and bonding as a group. It's great."

The community garden tour has been organized by various groups but was taken over by the Master Gardeners for the first time last year. That event included stops only at the homes of Master Gardeners. The goal of this year's tour is to show a variety of gardens. A Master Gardener will be available at each stop to help answer questions.

This year's stops include: 2530 12th Street, 1216 Roosevelt, 1221 McKinley, 2207 Canterbury Lane, and 135A NW 50 Ave.

For more information about the Master Gardener program, contact Alicia Boor at the Extension Office at aboor@ksu.edu or by calling (620) 793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/6/1655395507206.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostFlowers and vegetables are the standard of any garden tour. Throw in a high tunnel and some microgreens and you get the second annual Gathering of the Gardeners, presented by the K-State Research and Extension Master Gardeners. This year's tour, scheduled on June 24th from 5 to 8 p.m., includes five locations around Great Bend."Master Gardners is a volunteer group that has been trained by the Extentension Office," explained Sarah Shirer, president of the group. "The purpose of the group is to assist the county horticuluritists in sharing information with people in the community, helping out answering questions, that sort of thing."Master Gardeners buy their own materials, attend 40-50 hours of training in all aspects of horticulture, then donate an equivalent number of hours back to community projects. To maintain certification after the first year, the gardeners take eight hours of continuing education and donate a minimum of 20 hours to the community."There's just a variety," Shirer said. "Everyone just steps in and puts their hours in on the projects that speak to them, that they're most interested in doing."Local Master Gardeners helped reconstruct a historical garden in front of the stone house at the Barton County Historical Society, assisted with the flower pots and butterfly house at the Brit Spaugh Zoo, and work in the teaching garden on the south side of Washington Elementary School, which is included in this year's tour.Some hobbyists complete the original training hours but do commit to the volunteer hours for the full certification. "You can take the course and learn the material, then not step into the organization or the commitment year after year to spend volunteer time," said Shirer. "A lot of peoples' work schedules and health concerns have kept them from stepping in fully."A relatively new program in the Cottonwood District, Shirer estimates there are approximately a dozen active members just five years into the program."A lot of other counties have been building their group for years," she said. "We're getting a good foothold, figuring it out, and bonding as a group. It's great."The community garden tour has been organized by various groups but was taken over by the Master Gardeners for the first time last year. That event included stops only at the homes of Master Gardeners. The goal of this year's tour is to show a variety of gardens. A Master Gardener will be available at each stop to help answer questions.This year's stops include: 2530 12th Street, 1216 Roosevelt, 1221 McKinley, 2207 Canterbury Lane, and 135A NW 50 Ave.For more information about the Master Gardener program, contact Alicia Boor at the Extension Office at aboor@ksu.edu or by calling (620) 793-1910.

Green thumbs unite for Gathering of Gardeners next Friday

The history of celebrating Father’s Day dates back 50 years ago, when President Nixon made it an official holiday. Much earlier (around 1910) a young lady named Sonora Smart Dodd, of Spokane, Washington, is given credit for originating the holiday. Her father was a Civil War veteran, who raised her and her five siblings after their mother died in childbirth. I know how much work it was to raise three kids in a two-parent family, so it is hard to imagine how it would be in a single parent home.

A gradual cultural shift of permissiveness toward single parenting can sometimes give the impression that fathers don’t really matter. Nothing could be further from the truth. Fathers play an important role in the development of their children and families. Studies show that children with involved fathers are more successful in school, more ambitious, more self-confident with their identity, self-protective and self-reliant, less likely to drop out of school and less susceptible to peer pressure.

It is so refreshing to see fathers who have become more involved with their families beyond the role of breadwinner. I saw it in my husband, John, and now in our son and son-in-law, Adam and Art. Taking the time to develop and nurture relationships with children pays off big in the end. Children with active fathers develop skills they can carry into adulthood. Self-esteem soars when dads are active participants in their children’s lives. Children come with their own unique personalities, temperaments and developmental timetables and dadas are an essential link to a child’s well-being.

Here's hoping that all of you reading this will take time to acknowledge the father or father figure who has had an impact on your life. A simple phone call or spending an afternoon working on a project together can be the most meaningful gift of all!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may contact 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 District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The history of celebrating Father’s Day dates back 50 years ago, when President Nixon made it an official holiday. Much earlier (around 1910) a young lady named Sonora Smart Dodd, of Spokane, Washington, is given credit for originating the holiday. Her father was a Civil War veteran, who raised her and her five siblings after their mother died in childbirth. I know how much work it was to raise three kids in a two-parent family, so it is hard to imagine how it would be in a single parent home.A gradual cultural shift of permissiveness toward single parenting can sometimes give the impression that fathers don’t really matter. Nothing could be further from the truth. Fathers play an important role in the development of their children and families. Studies show that children with involved fathers are more successful in school, more ambitious, more self-confident with their identity, self-protective and self-reliant, less likely to drop out of school and less susceptible to peer pressure.It is so refreshing to see fathers who have become more involved with their families beyond the role of breadwinner. I saw it in my husband, John, and now in our son and son-in-law, Adam and Art. Taking the time to develop and nurture relationships with children pays off big in the end. Children with active fathers develop skills they can carry into adulthood. Self-esteem soars when dads are active participants in their children’s lives. Children come with their own unique personalities, temperaments and developmental timetables and dadas are an essential link to a child’s well-being.Here's hoping that all of you reading this will take time to acknowledge the father or father figure who has had an impact on your life. A simple phone call or spending an afternoon working on a project together can be the most meaningful gift of all!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may contact her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Celebrating Dad’s Day

By COLE REIF Great Bend Post

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645555636297.jpg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By COLE REIF Great Bend PostAs Barton County prepares their budget for the next fiscal year,
citizens remain hopeful for drops in the mill levy, or property tax. Barton
County dropped their tax rate by nearly two mills last year to just over 44
mills. &nbsp;Barton County Commissioner Barb Esfeld said she’ll hear from constituents
wondering why their taxes went up despite the county lowering or keeping their
mill levy the same. There are many other taxing entities where citizens reside
that have an impact on the total mill levy. &nbsp; 
"When we're setting the budget, we don't necessarily control all the other things," said Esfeld. "Those entities will do their own work. We only have say over the Barton County mill levy." 
Fire districts, libraries, recreation commissions, Cottonwood Extension
District, cities, the college and other entities have their own mill levy
assessed to citizens. 
Esfeld has been delighted to see sales tax revenue recently increase in the area.
Esfeld refers to the three-legged stool of government including property tax, sales
tax and income tax. The commissioner would like to see less emphasis on
property tax. 
"We've known for years that the three-legged stool has been off balance with property tax being heavier," said Esfeld. "If we could lean toward income tax, along with the state funding more, that is where I would like to see that go. I feel like it would balance that stool out." 
Last year’s overall mill levy for a Great Bend resident was more than 184
mills.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;