The alfalfa weevil, is the major perennial defoliator of early season alfalfa in Kansas. Alfalfa weevils originated in Asia but were probably introduced into the United States from southern Europe. First reported from Utah in 1904, they are now established in all contiguous states.

Kansas State University crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth said now is the time for farmers to be checking their field for the alfalfa weevil, which is considered the number one alfalfa pest.

The adults come into the alfalfa fields in late summer, early fall and they start laying eggs in the stems of the alfalfa.

Eggs will hatch after about 300 growing degree days, a physiological measurement of temperature. That puts the newly hatched weevils in farmer’s field about now.

Alfalfa weevils leave behind tiny holes – about the size of a pin prick – in the leaves of alfalfa plants. According to Whitworth, those holes have started to show up on plants, indicating that they are starting to hatch.

As it gets warmer, more eggs will begin to hatch. “You need to get out and start scouting,” Whitworth said.

It is recommended that producers wait until there is a 30-50% infestation of alfalfa weevils in a field before deciding to spray. To test the infestation level, pick stems and then vigorously shake them into a white bucket to count the number of larvae that fall off.

Whitworth shared how to calculate the infestation level. If a producer shakes 10 stems into the bucket and there are six larvae, there is a 60% infestation level. If a producer shakes 10 stems but only counts 2 larvae, then there is a 20% infestation level and should be checked within the next 4-5 days, depending on temperatures. Ideally it is recommended to do this sampling in at least 2 to 3 different areas or spots in the field to get a better estimation.

“Don’t go out there and spray too early,” Whitworth said. “These insecticides only last 10-14 days.”

He recommends checking the weather forecast before treating for weevils. “Anytime the temperature gets down into the mid-20s, the young larvae will be killed.”

If rain is forecast in the coming 3-4 days, Whitworth suggests holding off on spraying.

More information is available at local county and district Extension offices in Kansas. K-State Research &amp; Extension entomologists update several insect management guides each year for agriculture producers use. An Alfalfa Insect Pest Management guide is available in paper copy from your local Extension office. Or in your internet browser box just type in KSU Alfalfa Insect Guide and it should come up.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The alfalfa weevil, is the major perennial defoliator of early season alfalfa in Kansas. Alfalfa weevils originated in Asia but were probably introduced into the United States from southern Europe. First reported from Utah in 1904, they are now established in all contiguous states.Kansas State University crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth said now is the time for farmers to be checking their field for the alfalfa weevil, which is considered the number one alfalfa pest.The adults come into the alfalfa fields in late summer, early fall and they start laying eggs in the stems of the alfalfa.Eggs will hatch after about 300 growing degree days, a physiological measurement of temperature. That puts the newly hatched weevils in farmer’s field about now.Alfalfa weevils leave behind tiny holes – about the size of a pin prick – in the leaves of alfalfa plants. According to Whitworth, those holes have started to show up on plants, indicating that they are starting to hatch.As it gets warmer, more eggs will begin to hatch. “You need to get out and start scouting,” Whitworth said.It is recommended that producers wait until there is a 30-50% infestation of alfalfa weevils in a field before deciding to spray. To test the infestation level, pick stems and then vigorously shake them into a white bucket to count the number of larvae that fall off.Whitworth shared how to calculate the infestation level. If a producer shakes 10 stems into the bucket and there are six larvae, there is a 60% infestation level. If a producer shakes 10 stems but only counts 2 larvae, then there is a 20% infestation level and should be checked within the next 4-5 days, depending on temperatures. Ideally it is recommended to do this sampling in at least 2 to 3 different areas or spots in the field to get a better estimation.“Don’t go out there and spray too early,” Whitworth said. “These insecticides only last 10-14 days.”He recommends checking the weather forecast before treating for weevils. “Anytime the temperature gets down into the mid-20s, the young larvae will be killed.”If rain is forecast in the coming 3-4 days, Whitworth suggests holding off on spraying.More information is available at local county and district Extension offices in Kansas. K-State Research &amp; Extension entomologists update several insect management guides each year for agriculture producers use. An Alfalfa Insect Pest Management guide is available in paper copy from your local Extension office. Or in your internet browser box just type in KSU Alfalfa Insect Guide and it should come up.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 - K-State crop entomologist: Be on the lookout for alfalfa weevil

By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina Post

More than $600,000 worth of property was destroyed in a Friday evening fire west of Salina.

Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that a 38-year-old Saline County man was working on a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta in a building on his property in the 2500 block of Cottonwood Lane when the car caught fire.

A deputy, who was first on the scene, attempted to put the fire out with an extinguisher, Melander said. The fire, however, quickly spread and engulfed the large metal building. Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 7 arrived and extinguished the blaze.

The Jetta, which belonged to a 64-year-old Salina woman, was destroyed. It was valued at $7,000, Melander said.

The 38-year-old man also lost property in the fire including the large metal building in which he was working, valued at $550,000, a 2009 Kawasaki motorcycle, valued at $3,500, an 85cc Kawasaki dirt bike, valued at $1,800 and various tools, valued at $75,000, according to Melander.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648489575524.jpeg" alt="The blaze destroyed the building and multiple items inside.&nbsp;Photo Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>The blaze destroyed the building and multiple items inside.&nbsp;Photo Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>By LESLIE EIKLEBERRY Salina PostMore than $600,000 worth of property was destroyed in a Friday evening fire west of Salina.Saline County Undersheriff Brent Melander said this morning that a 38-year-old Saline County man was working on a 2012 Volkswagen Jetta in a building on his property in the 2500 block of Cottonwood Lane when the car caught fire.A deputy, who was first on the scene, attempted to put the fire out with an extinguisher, Melander said. The fire, however, quickly spread and engulfed the large metal building. Firefighters from Rural Fire District No. 7 arrived and extinguished the blaze.The Jetta, which belonged to a 64-year-old Salina woman, was destroyed. It was valued at $7,000, Melander said.The 38-year-old man also lost property in the fire including the large metal building in which he was working, valued at $550,000, a 2009 Kawasaki motorcycle, valued at $3,500, an 85cc Kawasaki dirt bike, valued at $1,800 and various tools, valued at $75,000, according to Melander.

Sheriff: $600,000 loss in rural Kansas fire 

Before National Nutrition Month comes to an end, I want to share one more pep talk about making healthy food choices. The presentation I shared earlier this month about the Mediterranean and DASH diets turned out to be a popular topic. I will be sharing the same information in Ellis County as part of the Walk KS celebration on Thursday, May 26th, at noon. More details will be shared closer to the date.

National Nutrition Month, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, puts valuable and credible nutrition information at our fingertips. The focus is always to encourage people to make informed choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits.

Sometimes it can be tough to know exactly where to start; there are so many messages in the news and some messages contradict what was reported by a different source on a different day. One thing I have always appreciated with my connection to K-State Research and Extension is that I have access to up-to-date research-based information at the click of a mouse.

There are many excellent publications related to healthy food choices that are available on our K-State Research and Extension website. I helped update the “Healthy Choices when Eating Out” fact sheet a couple of years ago. Eating away from your home kitchen can create challenges, because many menu items have added fat or sugar and may be high in sodium. Becoming familiar with the terms of the way food is prepared can help you make healthier choices.

Another fact sheet I authored a few years ago is titled, “Healthy Cooking Styles.” This fact sheet highlights five different cooking styles that focus on creating tasty and healthy grain and vegetable dishes. Too often I hear people say how hard it is to eat healthy. In my mind it is not hard at all. And the health benefits you will notice by incorporating more whole grains and vegetables into your daily menus

will help keep you motivated. Many people with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and various autoimmune diseases have been able to alleviate their symptoms by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and consuming fewer solid and added fats, added sugars, and refined grains. As a follow-up to the fact sheet, I created a 30-minute Extension Ed talk utube video about healthy cooking styles. You can find the link to it and other Extension Ed talks on our Cottonwood website.

If you would like a copy of any of the fact sheets I have mentioned in this article, simply drop by either of our Extension offices in Great Bend or Hays or look for them on the KSRE web site, following the link to the bookstore and search by title.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent - Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. 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>Before National Nutrition Month comes to an end, I want to share one more pep talk about making healthy food choices. The presentation I shared earlier this month about the Mediterranean and DASH diets turned out to be a popular topic. I will be sharing the same information in Ellis County as part of the Walk KS celebration on Thursday, May 26th, at noon. More details will be shared closer to the date.National Nutrition Month, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, puts valuable and credible nutrition information at our fingertips. The focus is always to encourage people to make informed choices and develop sound eating and physical activity habits.Sometimes it can be tough to know exactly where to start; there are so many messages in the news and some messages contradict what was reported by a different source on a different day. One thing I have always appreciated with my connection to K-State Research and Extension is that I have access to up-to-date research-based information at the click of a mouse.There are many excellent publications related to healthy food choices that are available on our K-State Research and Extension website. I helped update the “Healthy Choices when Eating Out” fact sheet a couple of years ago. Eating away from your home kitchen can create challenges, because many menu items have added fat or sugar and may be high in sodium. Becoming familiar with the terms of the way food is prepared can help you make healthier choices.Another fact sheet I authored a few years ago is titled, “Healthy Cooking Styles.” This fact sheet highlights five different cooking styles that focus on creating tasty and healthy grain and vegetable dishes. Too often I hear people say how hard it is to eat healthy. In my mind it is not hard at all. And the health benefits you will notice by incorporating more whole grains and vegetables into your daily menuswill help keep you motivated. Many people with heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and various autoimmune diseases have been able to alleviate their symptoms by eating more whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds, and consuming fewer solid and added fats, added sugars, and refined grains. As a follow-up to the fact sheet, I created a 30-minute Extension Ed talk utube video about healthy cooking styles. You can find the link to it and other Extension Ed talks on our Cottonwood website.If you would like a copy of any of the fact sheets I have mentioned in this article, simply drop by either of our Extension offices in Great Bend or Hays or look for them on the KSRE web site, following the link to the bookstore and search by title.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent - Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend Office. 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: Healthy food choices can make a difference

Several K-State Research and Extension publications related to insect management in Kansas were recently updated and are available to the public.

These publications were prepared to help producers manage insect populations with the best available methods proven practical under Kansas conditions. They are revised annually and intended for use during the current calendar year. The user should know that pesticide label directions and restrictions are subject to change, and some may have changed since the date of publication.

Each fact sheet is available online using the links provided below, or by stopping in your local Extension Office for a paper copy. Also most of the time if you know the publication title or can even get close to it and type into your internet browser “KSU Wheat Insect Management” it should come up.

MF742 - Sorghum Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF742.pdf

MF743 - Soybean Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF743.pdf

MF745 - Wheat Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdf

MF809 - Alfalfa Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdf

MF810 – Corn Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF810.pdf

MF814 – Sunflower Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF814.pdf

MF2674 – Cotton Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2674.pdf

The economics of control should be considered in any pest management decision. Because costs vary greatly over time and are influenced by factors beyond the scope of this publication, product cost is not a consideration for including or omitting specific insecticide products in these recommendations. Growers should compare product price, safety, and availability when making treatment decisions. Growers also need to consider the impacts of insecticides on non-target organisms like pollinators and natural enemies. Rotating insecticide groups can help combat insecticide resistance issues by leveraging different modes of action. The user bears ultimate responsibility for correct pesticide use. For proper use, always read label directions carefully before applying pesticides. Remember, it is illegal to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the label.

More information on pests covered in these publications is available at: www.entomology.k-state.edu/extension/insect-information/crop-pests/

War on Weeds, Podcast - farmers are you interested in keeping up with the latest weed management information? If so, you’ll want to add the “War Against Weeds” podcast to your weed management toolbox. This podcast is an outreach effort from Sarah Lancaster, K-State Extension Weed Science Specialist, Mandy Bish, Extension Weed Scientist at the University of Missouri, and Joe Ikely, Extension Weed Scientist at North Dakota State. All podcast episodes will be posted at https://waragainstweeds.libsyn.com/ and will also be freely available on Spotify, a digital streaming service. Episodes will feature a variety of guests from university and private industry with expertise in a variety of aspects of weed science as they discuss key topics like integrated weed management, herbicide resistance, and others.

<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>Several K-State Research and Extension publications related to insect management in Kansas were recently updated and are available to the public.These publications were prepared to help producers manage insect populations with the best available methods proven practical under Kansas conditions. They are revised annually and intended for use during the current calendar year. The user should know that pesticide label directions and restrictions are subject to change, and some may have changed since the date of publication.Each fact sheet is available online using the links provided below, or by stopping in your local Extension Office for a paper copy. Also most of the time if you know the publication title or can even get close to it and type into your internet browser “KSU Wheat Insect Management” it should come up.MF742 - Sorghum Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF742.pdfMF743 - Soybean Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF743.pdfMF745 - Wheat Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF745.pdfMF809 - Alfalfa Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF809.pdfMF810 – Corn Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF810.pdfMF814 – Sunflower Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF814.pdfMF2674 – Cotton Insect Pest Management - https://bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/MF2674.pdfThe economics of control should be considered in any pest management decision. Because costs vary greatly over time and are influenced by factors beyond the scope of this publication, product cost is not a consideration for including or omitting specific insecticide products in these recommendations. Growers should compare product price, safety, and availability when making treatment decisions. Growers also need to consider the impacts of insecticides on non-target organisms like pollinators and natural enemies. Rotating insecticide groups can help combat insecticide resistance issues by leveraging different modes of action. The user bears ultimate responsibility for correct pesticide use. For proper use, always read label directions carefully before applying pesticides. Remember, it is illegal to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with the label.More information on pests covered in these publications is available at: www.entomology.k-state.edu/extension/insect-information/crop-pests/War on Weeds, Podcast - farmers are you interested in keeping up with the latest weed management information? If so, you’ll want to add the “War Against Weeds” podcast to your weed management toolbox. This podcast is an outreach effort from Sarah Lancaster, K-State Extension Weed Science Specialist, Mandy Bish, Extension Weed Scientist at the University of Missouri, and Joe Ikely, Extension Weed Scientist at North Dakota State. All podcast episodes will be posted at https://waragainstweeds.libsyn.com/ and will also be freely available on Spotify, a digital streaming service. Episodes will feature a variety of guests from university and private industry with expertise in a variety of aspects of weed science as they discuss key topics like integrated weed management, herbicide resistance, and others.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: K-State insect pest management publications updated

Crabgrass preventers are another name for preemergence herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from developing into mature plants. Many people have a somewhat foggy idea of how they work and assume they kill the weed seed.&nbsp; Such is not the case. They do not kill the seed or even keep the seed from germinating but rather kill the young plant after it germinates.&nbsp; Therefore, they do not prevent germination but prevent emergence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Crabgrass preventers are just that – preventers. With few exceptions they have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, so they must be applied before germination. Additionally, preventers do not last forever once applied to the soil.&nbsp; Microorganisms and natural processes begin to gradually break them down soon after they are applied. If some products are applied too early, they may have lost much of their strength by the time they are needed. Most crabgrass preventers are fairly ineffective after about 60 days, but there is considerable variation among products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

For most of Kansas, crabgrass typically begins to germinate around May 1 or a little later. April 15 is normally a good target date for applying preventer because it gives active ingredients time to evenly disperse in the soil before crabgrass germination starts.&nbsp; Even better, base timing on the bloom of ornamental plants. The Eastern Redbud tree is a good choice for this purpose. When the trees in your area approach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer. A follow-up application will be needed about 8 weeks later unless you are using Dimension or Barricade.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Dimension and Barricade are the only two products that give season-long control of crabgrass from a single application. In fact, they can be applied earlier than April 15 and still have sufficient residual strength to last the season. Barricade can even be applied in late fall for crabgrass control the next season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 

Dimension can be applied as early as March 1. Because of the added flexibility in timing, these products are favorites of lawn care companies who have many customers to service in the spring. Though Dimension is usually not applied as early as Barricade, it is the herbicide of choice if it must be applied later than recommended. It is the exception to the rule that preemergence herbicides do not kill existing weeds. Dimension can kill crabgrass as long as it is young (two- to three-leaf stage). Dimension is also the best choice if treating a lawn that was planted late last fall. Normally a preemergence herbicide is not recommended unless the lawn has been mowed two to four times. But Dimension is kind to young tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass seedlings and some formulations can be applied as early as two weeks after the first sign of germination. However, read the label of the specific product you wish to use to ensure that this use is allowed. Lawns established in the fall can be safely treated with Dimension the following spring even if they have not been mowed.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Crabgrass preventers are another name for preemergence herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from developing into mature plants. Many people have a somewhat foggy idea of how they work and assume they kill the weed seed.&nbsp; Such is not the case. They do not kill the seed or even keep the seed from germinating but rather kill the young plant after it germinates.&nbsp; Therefore, they do not prevent germination but prevent emergence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Crabgrass preventers are just that – preventers. With few exceptions they have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, so they must be applied before germination. Additionally, preventers do not last forever once applied to the soil.&nbsp; Microorganisms and natural processes begin to gradually break them down soon after they are applied. If some products are applied too early, they may have lost much of their strength by the time they are needed. Most crabgrass preventers are fairly ineffective after about 60 days, but there is considerable variation among products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For most of Kansas, crabgrass typically begins to germinate around May 1 or a little later. April 15 is normally a good target date for applying preventer because it gives active ingredients time to evenly disperse in the soil before crabgrass germination starts.&nbsp; Even better, base timing on the bloom of ornamental plants. The Eastern Redbud tree is a good choice for this purpose. When the trees in your area approach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer. A follow-up application will be needed about 8 weeks later unless you are using Dimension or Barricade.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dimension and Barricade are the only two products that give season-long control of crabgrass from a single application. In fact, they can be applied earlier than April 15 and still have sufficient residual strength to last the season. Barricade can even be applied in late fall for crabgrass control the next season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dimension can be applied as early as March 1. Because of the added flexibility in timing, these products are favorites of lawn care companies who have many customers to service in the spring. Though Dimension is usually not applied as early as Barricade, it is the herbicide of choice if it must be applied later than recommended. It is the exception to the rule that preemergence herbicides do not kill existing weeds. Dimension can kill crabgrass as long as it is young (two- to three-leaf stage). Dimension is also the best choice if treating a lawn that was planted late last fall. Normally a preemergence herbicide is not recommended unless the lawn has been mowed two to four times. But Dimension is kind to young tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass seedlings and some formulations can be applied as early as two weeks after the first sign of germination. However, read the label of the specific product you wish to use to ensure that this use is allowed. Lawns established in the fall can be safely treated with Dimension the following spring even if they have not been mowed.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Crabgrass

I came across a picture a few days ago that had the caption, “We can’t always choose the music life plays for us, but we can choose how we dance to it.”

I am part of a group of agents across several states who are reading and discussing the book, “The Positive Shift” by Catherine A. Sanderson. The research included in this book has been a fascinating look at how we can adjust our outlook as not all of us wake up every day filled with energy and excitement about a new day. For some, each day can be a struggle to be or stay positive. The research, however, shows that we can improve our physical and mental health by working on our outlook.

The last two years have been filled with frustration, separation, anxiety, and loss. Loss of civility, loss of relationships, loss of time together. I shared some pretty somber thoughts about loss with my 4-H families a few weeks ago with the reminder to check on themselves, their neighbors, and their friends.

At a good friend’s funeral recently, the message included that our friend had selected the Garth Brooks song, “The Dance” for the father-daughter dance at his daughter’s wedding. Our pastor related the words of the chorus which state:

“And now I'm glad I didn't know The way it all would end, the way it all would go Our lives are better left to chance I could have missed the pain But I'd have had to miss the dance”

I hope that your takeaway of the last few years is to truly cherish friends and family and listen to the music life gives you. Look for opportunities to be kind, be helpful, be community and choose your dance every day.

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>I came across a picture a few days ago that had the caption, “We can’t always choose the music life plays for us, but we can choose how we dance to it.”I am part of a group of agents across several states who are reading and discussing the book, “The Positive Shift” by Catherine A. Sanderson. The research included in this book has been a fascinating look at how we can adjust our outlook as not all of us wake up every day filled with energy and excitement about a new day. For some, each day can be a struggle to be or stay positive. The research, however, shows that we can improve our physical and mental health by working on our outlook.The last two years have been filled with frustration, separation, anxiety, and loss. Loss of civility, loss of relationships, loss of time together. I shared some pretty somber thoughts about loss with my 4-H families a few weeks ago with the reminder to check on themselves, their neighbors, and their friends.At a good friend’s funeral recently, the message included that our friend had selected the Garth Brooks song, “The Dance” for the father-daughter dance at his daughter’s wedding. Our pastor related the words of the chorus which state:“And now I'm glad I didn't know The way it all would end, the way it all would go Our lives are better left to chance I could have missed the pain But I'd have had to miss the dance”I hope that your takeaway of the last few years is to truly cherish friends and family and listen to the music life gives you. Look for opportunities to be kind, be helpful, be community and choose your dance every day.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: Dancing

Our office is buzzing with people who are pulling their Walk KS teams together and that is great news. This signature program at K-State Research &amp; Extension is set to begin March 27 and runs through May 21st. Registration for this program that emphasizes healthy living can be completed on-line. For a $10 registration fee, participants will receive a weekly newsletter, as well as a meal provided at no charge during the celebration held in late May. Registration information is available at either of our Extension offices at 3007 10th Street in Great Bend or 601 Main Street in Hays.

Walk KS is it is the perfect time to remind everyone to find a physical activity you enjoy and then make time in your schedule to do it! For me, that means getting back on the bike. When our office moved to a new location late last fall it increased my commuting time. I can log sixty minutes of exercise each day in fifteen-minute increments so that it is built into my normal routine. Even a few days off the routine of bike commuting to and from work makes me feel sluggish. So, I am anxious for Walk KS to begin!

If you haven’t already pulled your team of six together, there is still time. Select a fun name that describes your team and when March 27th rolls around start logging minutes exercised. If you prefer, you can sign up solo and log your minutes exercised online as well. Optional t-shirts may be ordered to help you get into the spirit of the program. People are always anxious to learn what colors the t-shirts are. This years’ t-shirt colors are a pretty heather clay or heather teal. Both are attractive with the Walk KS logo complete with sunflower.

Walk Kansas Celebrations complete with a free lunch for Walk Kansas team members are set for Wednesday, May 25, at noon at the Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend, and Thursday, May 26, at noon at the Ellis County Extension Office meeting room. I’ll have more information about these fun and educational events as the dates draws near.

So, let’s hope for some warmer weather so we can get back into the swing of things with Walk KS!

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>Our office is buzzing with people who are pulling their Walk KS teams together and that is great news. This signature program at K-State Research &amp; Extension is set to begin March 27 and runs through May 21st. Registration for this program that emphasizes healthy living can be completed on-line. For a $10 registration fee, participants will receive a weekly newsletter, as well as a meal provided at no charge during the celebration held in late May. Registration information is available at either of our Extension offices at 3007 10th Street in Great Bend or 601 Main Street in Hays.Walk KS is it is the perfect time to remind everyone to find a physical activity you enjoy and then make time in your schedule to do it! For me, that means getting back on the bike. When our office moved to a new location late last fall it increased my commuting time. I can log sixty minutes of exercise each day in fifteen-minute increments so that it is built into my normal routine. Even a few days off the routine of bike commuting to and from work makes me feel sluggish. So, I am anxious for Walk KS to begin!If you haven’t already pulled your team of six together, there is still time. Select a fun name that describes your team and when March 27th rolls around start logging minutes exercised. If you prefer, you can sign up solo and log your minutes exercised online as well. Optional t-shirts may be ordered to help you get into the spirit of the program. People are always anxious to learn what colors the t-shirts are. This years’ t-shirt colors are a pretty heather clay or heather teal. Both are attractive with the Walk KS logo complete with sunflower.Walk Kansas Celebrations complete with a free lunch for Walk Kansas team members are set for Wednesday, May 25, at noon at the Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend, and Thursday, May 26, at noon at the Ellis County Extension Office meeting room. I’ll have more information about these fun and educational events as the dates draws near.So, let’s hope for some warmer weather so we can get back into the swing of things with Walk KS!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: Last call for Walk KS sign-up

As our weather warms, alfalfa producers are reminded to eliminate weeds in their fields before alfalfa plants break dormancy. Herbicide selection is critical now if you need to spray weeds in alfalfa stands that are green and growing.

Herbicides for controlling winter annual weeds such as pennycress, mustards and shepherd's purse should be applied before alfalfa regrowth reaches 2 inches of height. If alfalfa shoots are green when sprayed, its growth may be set back a couple weeks.

Broadleaf weeds can lower yields, reduce hay quality and slow first-cutting alfalfa dry-down. Grassy weeds such as downy brome, cheatgrass and bromegrass can have even higher impact on lowering hay quality.

If your alfalfa variety is Roundup Ready, then glyphosate can be applied to the alfalfa almost any time without harming the fields. Fortunately, if you treat your alfalfa soon, you can have cleaner, healthier alfalfa at first cutting.

Before spraying these weeds, be sure they are causing economic damage to your crop. Spraying will provide a purer alfalfa stand but may reduce your overall total tonnage.

Our new 2022 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, lists herbicides labelled to control weeds in alfalfa. To be most successful, apply herbicides before alfalfa shoots green up this spring to avoid alfalfa injury. If it does get late, use either Raptor or Pursuit, because they tend to cause less injury to your alfalfa.

As always with any weed control program it is best to time spraying when weeds are small, and to pay close attention to growth stage of alfalfa and label recommendations to avoid crop injury.

Replacing Thin Alfalfa - planting new fields of alfalfa is expensive. So many of us put off tearing up old fields and planting new ones. But is this the right thing to do?

Alfalfa stands usually reach peak production by year two or three. After this, yields tend to decline each year. By year four or five, yields are often much lower than their peak years, especially for dryland fields, because the subsurface moisture that plants were using during the early years is all gone. This is most noticeable during drought years when regrowth is almost zero after the first or second cutting. Yield decline in irrigated fields is slower but usually is a ton or more less by year five or six. In addition, thin stands with densities of less than 50 stems per square foot can open the door for weed encroachment.

So, should you try to squeeze another year out of your alfalfa stand? Calculate the costs. First, and most obvious, how will the lower yield of your old field compare to yields from a younger field? A second loss is the lost rotation benefit received by crops like corn that follow alfalfa in the rotation. Depending on the alfalfa stand poor (&lt;1 plant/ft2) vs. good (2-5 plants/ft2). Stand destruction with tillage can reduce your nitrogen fertilizer needs from 0 (poor stand) to 80 (good stand) pounds over the next couple years. If the stand is killed by spraying (no-till) then the nitrogen credit would be reduced by half. Much research has shown that corn after alfalfa often yields more than corn after corn, even after applying extra nitrogen.

This rotation benefit could be especially valuable this year if corn prices stay high. So if you have alfalfa fields that are past their prime, or maybe show winter damage this spring, this might be an excellent time to rotate those fields to a different crop and plant some new, higher yielding acres to alfalfa.

Both your alfalfa crop and the rotated crop could benefit.

Stacy Campbell is the Crop Production 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/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>As our weather warms, alfalfa producers are reminded to eliminate weeds in their fields before alfalfa plants break dormancy. Herbicide selection is critical now if you need to spray weeds in alfalfa stands that are green and growing.Herbicides for controlling winter annual weeds such as pennycress, mustards and shepherd's purse should be applied before alfalfa regrowth reaches 2 inches of height. If alfalfa shoots are green when sprayed, its growth may be set back a couple weeks.Broadleaf weeds can lower yields, reduce hay quality and slow first-cutting alfalfa dry-down. Grassy weeds such as downy brome, cheatgrass and bromegrass can have even higher impact on lowering hay quality.If your alfalfa variety is Roundup Ready, then glyphosate can be applied to the alfalfa almost any time without harming the fields. Fortunately, if you treat your alfalfa soon, you can have cleaner, healthier alfalfa at first cutting.Before spraying these weeds, be sure they are causing economic damage to your crop. Spraying will provide a purer alfalfa stand but may reduce your overall total tonnage.Our new 2022 Chemical Weed Control for Field Crops, Pastures, Rangeland, and Noncropland guide, lists herbicides labelled to control weeds in alfalfa. To be most successful, apply herbicides before alfalfa shoots green up this spring to avoid alfalfa injury. If it does get late, use either Raptor or Pursuit, because they tend to cause less injury to your alfalfa.As always with any weed control program it is best to time spraying when weeds are small, and to pay close attention to growth stage of alfalfa and label recommendations to avoid crop injury.Replacing Thin Alfalfa - planting new fields of alfalfa is expensive. So many of us put off tearing up old fields and planting new ones. But is this the right thing to do?Alfalfa stands usually reach peak production by year two or three. After this, yields tend to decline each year. By year four or five, yields are often much lower than their peak years, especially for dryland fields, because the subsurface moisture that plants were using during the early years is all gone. This is most noticeable during drought years when regrowth is almost zero after the first or second cutting. Yield decline in irrigated fields is slower but usually is a ton or more less by year five or six. In addition, thin stands with densities of less than 50 stems per square foot can open the door for weed encroachment.So, should you try to squeeze another year out of your alfalfa stand? Calculate the costs. First, and most obvious, how will the lower yield of your old field compare to yields from a younger field? A second loss is the lost rotation benefit received by crops like corn that follow alfalfa in the rotation. Depending on the alfalfa stand poor (&lt;1 plant/ft2) vs. good (2-5 plants/ft2). Stand destruction with tillage can reduce your nitrogen fertilizer needs from 0 (poor stand) to 80 (good stand) pounds over the next couple years. If the stand is killed by spraying (no-till) then the nitrogen credit would be reduced by half. Much research has shown that corn after alfalfa often yields more than corn after corn, even after applying extra nitrogen.This rotation benefit could be especially valuable this year if corn prices stay high. So if you have alfalfa fields that are past their prime, or maybe show winter damage this spring, this might be an excellent time to rotate those fields to a different crop and plant some new, higher yielding acres to alfalfa.Both your alfalfa crop and the rotated crop could benefit.Stacy Campbell is the Crop Production 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: Alfalfa weeds and thinning stands - dormant spraying

Just as sickness can spread among humans in a close-contact environment, it can as well with beef cattle that are co-mingled for the first time. However, the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute said there are steps producers can take to lessen the disease risk before bringing a new animal onto the property.

This was the topic of discussion on a recent Cattle Chat podcast, featuring the perspectives of K-State veterinarians Brad White, Bob Larson and Brian Lubbers, and Julia Herman, beef cattle specialist veterinarian for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.

“When we talk about biosecurity, we are really talking about ways to keep diseases out of our operations,” White said.

The experts agree that the level of disease risk varies across different herds because of the differences in management practices.

“Many commercial cow-calf operations are considered fairly closed herds because they bring few new animals into the herd,” Larson said, referring to a herd that adds a new bull on occasion but raises all its replacement females.

“The more cattle you bring into the herd, the greater the disease risk becomes, leading to an increased emphasis on biosecurity,” Lubbers said.

To lessen the risk for disease, Herman advised producers to purchase their cattle from a reputable seedstock operator.

“Reputable seedstock operators test their cattle for diseases before selling them, keep complete records and their cattle are in good condition,” Herman said.

Lubbers stressed the importance of whole herd testing to catch chronic diseases.

“Some diseases may not appear right away, so testing the herd over multiple years is the best practice to ensure that the herd is free of disease,” Lubbers said.

Even when purchasing cattle from a reputable seller, Herman recommends all new cattle go into a 21-30 day quarantine in their new location to be sure they are not carrying unexpected sickness to the rest of the herd.

White added that isolating new cattle from the rest of the herd can reduce sickness that is transmitted through the air.

“We need to make sure the new cattle don’t have nose-to-nose contact with the rest of the herd for that isolation period,” White said.

Larson suggested that new cattle be placed in a pasture separated by a gravel road or other barrier that gives the animals a distance greater than a fence line.

The experts also suggest working with a local veterinarian to discuss a biosecurity plan before a disease outbreak.

White said: “Disease plans that happen after there is a problem are not nearly as effective as pre-emptive plans. A little planning goes a long way toward total herd health.”

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>Just as sickness can spread among humans in a close-contact environment, it can as well with beef cattle that are co-mingled for the first time. However, the experts at the Kansas State University Beef Cattle Institute said there are steps producers can take to lessen the disease risk before bringing a new animal onto the property.This was the topic of discussion on a recent Cattle Chat podcast, featuring the perspectives of K-State veterinarians Brad White, Bob Larson and Brian Lubbers, and Julia Herman, beef cattle specialist veterinarian for the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association.“When we talk about biosecurity, we are really talking about ways to keep diseases out of our operations,” White said.The experts agree that the level of disease risk varies across different herds because of the differences in management practices.“Many commercial cow-calf operations are considered fairly closed herds because they bring few new animals into the herd,” Larson said, referring to a herd that adds a new bull on occasion but raises all its replacement females.“The more cattle you bring into the herd, the greater the disease risk becomes, leading to an increased emphasis on biosecurity,” Lubbers said.Making a biosecurity planTo lessen the risk for disease, Herman advised producers to purchase their cattle from a reputable seedstock operator.“Reputable seedstock operators test their cattle for diseases before selling them, keep complete records and their cattle are in good condition,” Herman said.Lubbers stressed the importance of whole herd testing to catch chronic diseases.“Some diseases may not appear right away, so testing the herd over multiple years is the best practice to ensure that the herd is free of disease,” Lubbers said.Even when purchasing cattle from a reputable seller, Herman recommends all new cattle go into a 21-30 day quarantine in their new location to be sure they are not carrying unexpected sickness to the rest of the herd.White added that isolating new cattle from the rest of the herd can reduce sickness that is transmitted through the air.“We need to make sure the new cattle don’t have nose-to-nose contact with the rest of the herd for that isolation period,” White said.Larson suggested that new cattle be placed in a pasture separated by a gravel road or other barrier that gives the animals a distance greater than a fence line.The experts also suggest working with a local veterinarian to discuss a biosecurity plan before a disease outbreak.White said: “Disease plans that happen after there is a problem are not nearly as effective as pre-emptive plans. A little planning goes a long way toward total herd health.”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: Biosecurity in herds

If you have kids, you are well aware that it is spring break and that marks the end of another 9 weeks of school. Your students will be bringing home their report cards soon, and that reminds me of an article in the Working Mother magazine many years ago titled, “The Parent Report Card.” It seemed a bit awkward to ask my adolescent children at the time to grade me and their dad, on 25 different things but that is exactly what we did. Part of the value of the parent report card is that is brings out issues parents may not realize are important.

Things like “Understands my moods”, “Listens to my problems”, “Doesn’t scream at me when angry,” and “Treats all the kids in the family fairly” are graded A to F by each child in the family. I remember being surprised that my 10-year-old son gave me a C when it came to “Lets me make my own decisions.” I’m thinking to myself, “Adam, you’re only 10, so you don’t have the skills to make all of you own decisions.” Still, it reminded me of the important job we have as parents, to gradually let our children gain skills to make more of their own decisions.

It is a good idea to make several copies of the “Parent Report Card” and allow time for each child in the family to grade both mom and dad and also let the parents grade themselves. As parents take the quiz and grade themselves, they may see how the perceptions of one generation can differ from those of the other.

Dr. Linda Berg-Cross, author of “The Parent Report Card,” cites a single father who was surprised to find himself with a low mark in “Helps me get up when I oversleep.” “I always make sure she gets up,” he said. “I gave myself an A.” When he asked his daughter why she had given him a D, she answered, “Because you yell at me, and I hate waking up that way.” Her advice as to how he might improve: “Just talk to me nicely.”

If you would like a copy of the “Parent Report Card” give me a call or send me an e-mail and I will be happy to share.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have kids, you are well aware that it is spring break and that marks the end of another 9 weeks of school. Your students will be bringing home their report cards soon, and that reminds me of an article in the Working Mother magazine many years ago titled, “The Parent Report Card.” It seemed a bit awkward to ask my adolescent children at the time to grade me and their dad, on 25 different things but that is exactly what we did. Part of the value of the parent report card is that is brings out issues parents may not realize are important.Things like “Understands my moods”, “Listens to my problems”, “Doesn’t scream at me when angry,” and “Treats all the kids in the family fairly” are graded A to F by each child in the family. I remember being surprised that my 10-year-old son gave me a C when it came to “Lets me make my own decisions.” I’m thinking to myself, “Adam, you’re only 10, so you don’t have the skills to make all of you own decisions.” Still, it reminded me of the important job we have as parents, to gradually let our children gain skills to make more of their own decisions.It is a good idea to make several copies of the “Parent Report Card” and allow time for each child in the family to grade both mom and dad and also let the parents grade themselves. As parents take the quiz and grade themselves, they may see how the perceptions of one generation can differ from those of the other.Dr. Linda Berg-Cross, author of “The Parent Report Card,” cites a single father who was surprised to find himself with a low mark in “Helps me get up when I oversleep.” “I always make sure she gets up,” he said. “I gave myself an A.” When he asked his daughter why she had given him a D, she answered, “Because you yell at me, and I hate waking up that way.” Her advice as to how he might improve: “Just talk to me nicely.”If you would like a copy of the “Parent Report Card” give me a call or send me an e-mail and I will be happy to share.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension - Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Is it time for a parent report card?

As we come into the growing season and plants begin to break dormancy, producers may have to start making some tough decisions. Since moisture has been at a premium this year, there will be added considerations to look at before getting your cattle to pasture.

On March 23, beginning at noon with a meal, join K-State Research and Extension for “Nutritional and Drought Stress Strategies for Area Producers”. This program will have Justin Waggoner on site to cover several aspects of the current drought situation, and allow producers to talk with a specialist about current issues with livestock. Some of the topics will be the importance of inventorying of available feed/ alternative feed, considerations of culling animals, as well as additives and supplements for different times of the year. There will also be conversations for hauling water and requirements for livestock.

The program will be at American Ag Credit located at 5634 10th St in Great Bend and is sponsored by First Kansas Bank. To RSVP for the meal count, please call Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910, or by email at aboor@ksu.edu by March 21st.

<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>As we come into the growing season and plants begin to break dormancy, producers may have to start making some tough decisions. Since moisture has been at a premium this year, there will be added considerations to look at before getting your cattle to pasture.On March 23, beginning at noon with a meal, join K-State Research and Extension for “Nutritional and Drought Stress Strategies for Area Producers”. This program will have Justin Waggoner on site to cover several aspects of the current drought situation, and allow producers to talk with a specialist about current issues with livestock. Some of the topics will be the importance of inventorying of available feed/ alternative feed, considerations of culling animals, as well as additives and supplements for different times of the year. There will also be conversations for hauling water and requirements for livestock.The program will be at American Ag Credit located at 5634 10th St in Great Bend and is sponsored by First Kansas Bank. To RSVP for the meal count, please call Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910, or by email at aboor@ksu.edu by March 21st.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Drought cattle program

A couple of weeks ago, 4-H members across Barton County gathered for 4-H Club Day. This event provides opportunities for 4-H members to showcase their presentation skills while receiving feedback from a judge for areas of improvement. Youth participate in Project Talks (specific information about one of the 40 project areas), a Demonstration (shows how to do something), an Illustrated Talk (tells how to do something or about something), and Public or Extemporaneous Speaking. They also have an opportunity to showcase teamwork through skits or model meetings (Parliamentary procedure). Those with top placings will have the opportunity to compete at the Regional 4-H Club Day on March 11 in Great Bend.

I love watching the development of a youth who starts out as a little one in a Show and Tell presentation and, just a few years later, is taking on more complicated topics and challenging themselves with Public Speaking or Extemporaneous Speaking.

In addition to this opportunity, a group of youth across the Cottonwood Extension District are part of a team of water ambassadors, our 4-H2O Ambassadors! This group of 7 youth are provided training by a variety of partners including Cottonwood Extension 4-H, Hays Water Resources Department, KSU Watershed specialists, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. The 4-H Water Ambassador program is a leadership opportunity for teens 13 and older, focusing on the importance of water quality, water conservation and water careers. If your organization would be interested in hearing from our water ambassadors, give me a call.

Another incredible opportunity that has been provided to one of our Cottonwood – Barton 4-H members is the chance to represent Kansas 4-H at an international level. Jayla Wyant was selected as one of the IFYE (International Foreign Youth Exchange) youth for 2022. She will be traveling to Japan this summer to stay with a host family, learn about youth development and experience a different culture. Jayla is fundraising for this trip as the costs are considerably more than a regular summer. If you are interested in supporting her fundraising efforts, please contact me at the Extension Office and I will have her family get in contact.

What incredible opportunities to learn through experiences!

<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>A couple of weeks ago, 4-H members across Barton County gathered for 4-H Club Day. This event provides opportunities for 4-H members to showcase their presentation skills while receiving feedback from a judge for areas of improvement. Youth participate in Project Talks (specific information about one of the 40 project areas), a Demonstration (shows how to do something), an Illustrated Talk (tells how to do something or about something), and Public or Extemporaneous Speaking. They also have an opportunity to showcase teamwork through skits or model meetings (Parliamentary procedure). Those with top placings will have the opportunity to compete at the Regional 4-H Club Day on March 11 in Great Bend.I love watching the development of a youth who starts out as a little one in a Show and Tell presentation and, just a few years later, is taking on more complicated topics and challenging themselves with Public Speaking or Extemporaneous Speaking.In addition to this opportunity, a group of youth across the Cottonwood Extension District are part of a team of water ambassadors, our 4-H2O Ambassadors! This group of 7 youth are provided training by a variety of partners including Cottonwood Extension 4-H, Hays Water Resources Department, KSU Watershed specialists, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center. The 4-H Water Ambassador program is a leadership opportunity for teens 13 and older, focusing on the importance of water quality, water conservation and water careers. If your organization would be interested in hearing from our water ambassadors, give me a call.Another incredible opportunity that has been provided to one of our Cottonwood – Barton 4-H members is the chance to represent Kansas 4-H at an international level. Jayla Wyant was selected as one of the IFYE (International Foreign Youth Exchange) youth for 2022. She will be traveling to Japan this summer to stay with a host family, learn about youth development and experience a different culture. Jayla is fundraising for this trip as the costs are considerably more than a regular summer. If you are interested in supporting her fundraising efforts, please contact me at the Extension Office and I will have her family get in contact.What incredible opportunities to learn through experiences!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: Incredible opportunities

“Celebrate a World of Flavors” is the theme of National Nutrition Month 2022. What a perfect time to explore a couple of diets that encourage making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. It is no secret that cardiovascular disease, or heart disease, is the leading cause of death in the United States and around the world. Because this chronic disease is so prevalent, research is ongoing, and much is known about the causes of heart disease.

It is no mystery – poor dietary quality is the top risk factor, accounting for approximately half of cardiovascular disease deaths globally. The American Heart Association has shifted their 2030 goals from managing hear disease to preventing heart disease. The new AHA focus emphasizes support of healthful behavior changes – particularly healthy eating and physical activity – in the prevention and treatment of heart disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.

Two well-researched dietary patterns have been shown to make a real difference in heart health: the DASH dietary pattern and the Mediterranean-style dietary pattern. I will be sharing in detail the benefits of both of these plans in educational programs set for next week. “Make a Med DASH to a Healthy Heart” will be presented Wednesday, March 9th, at 10:30 AM at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas. The same information will be shared during a Stop and Learn session at noon the same day, at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. Ellis County residents can learn about the Mediterranean and DASH diet plans on Thursday, May 26th at a noon program at the Ellis County Extension office. This will be part of the Walk KS celebration. I’ll share more about this closer to the date.

During my presentation I will share specific steps to help you adopt a Mediterranean or DASH eating pattern. The focus of any healthy diet is to eat more nutrient dense foods and less refined or

highly processed foods. A fact sheet written by two K-State Research and Extension Specialists will be shared during the presentations. Additional handouts from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the medinsteadofmeds.com website contain great information about this important topic. Both programs next Wednesday are free and open to everyone. I hope to see you soon!

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>“Celebrate a World of Flavors” is the theme of National Nutrition Month 2022. What a perfect time to explore a couple of diets that encourage making informed food choices and developing healthful eating and physical activity habits. It is no secret that cardiovascular disease, or heart disease, is the leading cause of death in the United States and around the world. Because this chronic disease is so prevalent, research is ongoing, and much is known about the causes of heart disease.It is no mystery – poor dietary quality is the top risk factor, accounting for approximately half of cardiovascular disease deaths globally. The American Heart Association has shifted their 2030 goals from managing hear disease to preventing heart disease. The new AHA focus emphasizes support of healthful behavior changes – particularly healthy eating and physical activity – in the prevention and treatment of heart disease, obesity, Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia.Two well-researched dietary patterns have been shown to make a real difference in heart health: the DASH dietary pattern and the Mediterranean-style dietary pattern. I will be sharing in detail the benefits of both of these plans in educational programs set for next week. “Make a Med DASH to a Healthy Heart” will be presented Wednesday, March 9th, at 10:30 AM at the Great Bend Senior Center, 2005 Kansas. The same information will be shared during a Stop and Learn session at noon the same day, at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. Ellis County residents can learn about the Mediterranean and DASH diet plans on Thursday, May 26th at a noon program at the Ellis County Extension office. This will be part of the Walk KS celebration. I’ll share more about this closer to the date.During my presentation I will share specific steps to help you adopt a Mediterranean or DASH eating pattern. The focus of any healthy diet is to eat more nutrient dense foods and less refined orhighly processed foods. A fact sheet written by two K-State Research and Extension Specialists will be shared during the presentations. Additional handouts from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the medinsteadofmeds.com website contain great information about this important topic. Both programs next Wednesday are free and open to everyone. I hope to see you soon!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: Mediterranean and DASH diets explored

Just as the mail carrier delivers the letters in all types of weather, so too must beef producers be able to respond to the climate impacts on the herd. With the low amounts of moisture that Kansas has experienced in the fall and winter, the experts at Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute said now is the time to be thinking about management strategies for a drought on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2022/02/11/sandhills-calving-system-definition-planning-for-drought-conflict-resolution/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“We’ve had a really dry fall and winter, so some folks are getting concerned about drought and making a plan for how to deal with it,” said Brad White, veterinarian.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Nutritionist Phillip Lancaster advised producers to evaluate their feed resources by looking at what they have on hand as well as the forages they will have access to.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You might want to consider planting drought-tolerant crops that can be used for grazing or look for alternative pastures before other people try to secure them,” Lancaster said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Agricultural economist Dustin Pendell said as producers evaluate the pastures, they must also consider the costs associated with water and&nbsp;fencing&nbsp;when grazing cropland or using alternate pastures.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Along with the feed concerns, veterinarian Brian Lubbers advised producers to look at ways to decrease grazing pressure by culling open cows or even managing them in a dry lot. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Think about making those culling decisions earlier as well as managing the feed differently by putting the cattle in a dry lot as a last option,” Lubbers said. “From a biosecurity standpoint, it is better to maintain those cattle in a dry lot on the same operation rather than outsourcing them to another herd.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lubbers also suggested the option of moving from natural service breeding to timed artificial insemination to get the cattle moved to a tighter calving window. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The experts agree that many of these options have short-term and long-term financial implications. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“If everyone is buying more hay or selling off cull cows at the same time, it will have implications for the short-term bottom line,” Pendell said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He added: “Along with the short-term effects, producers really need to think through how those culling decisions will impact the herd 2-3 years in the future when prices for replacement heifers may be higher because of the increased demand for them.” &nbsp;&nbsp;

The amount of moisture the grasses get in the spring may also influence weaning dates, said the experts.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Early weaning of the calves will reduce the grazing pressure because non-lactating cows consume 20-30% less feed per day than lactating females,” Lancaster said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Lubbers said there are health implications for the calves with early weaning that producers need to be aware of when making that choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Younger calves require a softer weaning or there could be some extreme health challenges that follow,” Lubbers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Just as the mail carrier delivers the letters in all types of weather, so too must beef producers be able to respond to the climate impacts on the herd. With the low amounts of moisture that Kansas has experienced in the fall and winter, the experts at Kansas State University’s Beef Cattle Institute said now is the time to be thinking about management strategies for a drought on a recent&nbsp;<a href="https://ksubci.org/2022/02/11/sandhills-calving-system-definition-planning-for-drought-conflict-resolution/" target="_blank">Cattle Chat</a>&nbsp;podcast discussion.&nbsp;&nbsp;“We’ve had a really dry fall and winter, so some folks are getting concerned about drought and making a plan for how to deal with it,” said Brad White, veterinarian.&nbsp;&nbsp;Nutritionist Phillip Lancaster advised producers to evaluate their feed resources by looking at what they have on hand as well as the forages they will have access to.&nbsp;&nbsp;“You might want to consider planting drought-tolerant crops that can be used for grazing or look for alternative pastures before other people try to secure them,” Lancaster said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Agricultural economist Dustin Pendell said as producers evaluate the pastures, they must also consider the costs associated with water and&nbsp;fencing&nbsp;when grazing cropland or using alternate pastures.&nbsp;&nbsp;Along with the feed concerns, veterinarian Brian Lubbers advised producers to look at ways to decrease grazing pressure by culling open cows or even managing them in a dry lot. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Think about making those culling decisions earlier as well as managing the feed differently by putting the cattle in a dry lot as a last option,” Lubbers said. “From a biosecurity standpoint, it is better to maintain those cattle in a dry lot on the same operation rather than outsourcing them to another herd.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Lubbers also suggested the option of moving from natural service breeding to timed artificial insemination to get the cattle moved to a tighter calving window. &nbsp;&nbsp;The experts agree that many of these options have short-term and long-term financial implications. &nbsp;&nbsp;“If everyone is buying more hay or selling off cull cows at the same time, it will have implications for the short-term bottom line,” Pendell said. &nbsp;&nbsp;He added: “Along with the short-term effects, producers really need to think through how those culling decisions will impact the herd 2-3 years in the future when prices for replacement heifers may be higher because of the increased demand for them.” &nbsp;&nbsp;The amount of moisture the grasses get in the spring may also influence weaning dates, said the experts.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Early weaning of the calves will reduce the grazing pressure because non-lactating cows consume 20-30% less feed per day than lactating females,” Lancaster said.&nbsp;&nbsp;Lubbers said there are health implications for the calves with early weaning that producers need to be aware of when making that choice.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Younger calves require a softer weaning or there could be some extreme health challenges that follow,” Lubbers said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Drought grazing

We all have heard that time honored saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” The saying has been around a long time and while it’s not always correct, it tends to be quite accurate when dealing with science and nature, especially crop production. We have seen the problem of “alternative products”, especially for crop nutrition for years. But every time we see a spike in input costs and or grain prices, we see a whole new wave of these products come out of the woodwork or at least a new wave of marketing.

It is important to keep a few basics in mind when you are reviewing the claims of “new” or “alternative” products. Crops (plants) still need nutrients in amounts ranging from fractions of an ounce per acre to hundreds of pounds per acre depending on the nutrient and the crop.

Be careful of products that you are applying at a gallon or two per acre that claim to replace hundreds of pounds of nitrogen fertilizer in non-legume crops like corn, wheat and sorghum. A corn crop still needs about give or take 1.0 pound of nitrogen to produce every bushel of corn. If an alternative product seems to work one year, it’s likely because there was adequate residual nitrogen in the soil from previous crops. The second year you may not be quite so lucky as the previous year’s crop used up all the residual out of the soil.

Many of these products are liquid fertilizers, and weigh about 11 pounds per gallon. A typical liquid nitrogen product is going to be 28% nitrogen which means a gallon will have 3 pounds of nitrogen. A gallon or two of some alternative product is not going to replace 100 pounds of nitrogen. There are no magic products that release nitrogen from the soil or cause the nitrogen that’s present in the soil to “work better”. Plants need nutrients in very specific chemical forms. It doesn’t matter if that nitrogen is coming from chemical fertilizer, left over nitrogen from a legume crop, manure or seaweed, it will have to go through certain processes in the soil before it can be plant available.

I’ve been talking mainly about nitrogen but the same holds for other nutrients including phosphorus, potassium, sulfur and all the micronutrients. All the nutrients the plants need simply have to be present in the soil at the concentrations needed for proper plant growth. There is no magical products that when applied at ounces or even a couple of gallons per acre are going to cure the problem.

You have to be cautious when reading the literature as well. Often the yield trials mentioned are not replicated. Non replicated trials do not allow you to perform analysis to make sure that yield differences are being caused by the product applied. Or they may pick one study where

there was a significant yield improvement, but don’t mention the other 23 where there was no difference. If you are tempted to try a new product, only try it on a couple of acres and then talk with me about how to set up an in-field evaluation so you can really see if there is a difference. Ask for third party university test results. If all the research is being done by the company, or person, trying to sell it to you, be suspicious. And if you are still tempted, bring me the literature and let’s look into it deeper before you spend any money on it.

<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>We all have heard that time honored saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” The saying has been around a long time and while it’s not always correct, it tends to be quite accurate when dealing with science and nature, especially crop production. We have seen the problem of “alternative products”, especially for crop nutrition for years. But every time we see a spike in input costs and or grain prices, we see a whole new wave of these products come out of the woodwork or at least a new wave of marketing.It is important to keep a few basics in mind when you are reviewing the claims of “new” or “alternative” products. Crops (plants) still need nutrients in amounts ranging from fractions of an ounce per acre to hundreds of pounds per acre depending on the nutrient and the crop.Be careful of products that you are applying at a gallon or two per acre that claim to replace hundreds of pounds of nitrogen fertilizer in non-legume crops like corn, wheat and sorghum. A corn crop still needs about give or take 1.0 pound of nitrogen to produce every bushel of corn. If an alternative product seems to work one year, it’s likely because there was adequate residual nitrogen in the soil from previous crops. The second year you may not be quite so lucky as the previous year’s crop used up all the residual out of the soil.Many of these products are liquid fertilizers, and weigh about 11 pounds per gallon. A typical liquid nitrogen product is going to be 28% nitrogen which means a gallon will have 3 pounds of nitrogen. A gallon or two of some alternative product is not going to replace 100 pounds of nitrogen. There are no magic products that release nitrogen from the soil or cause the nitrogen that’s present in the soil to “work better”. Plants need nutrients in very specific chemical forms. It doesn’t matter if that nitrogen is coming from chemical fertilizer, left over nitrogen from a legume crop, manure or seaweed, it will have to go through certain processes in the soil before it can be plant available.I’ve been talking mainly about nitrogen but the same holds for other nutrients including phosphorus, potassium, sulfur and all the micronutrients. All the nutrients the plants need simply have to be present in the soil at the concentrations needed for proper plant growth. There is no magical products that when applied at ounces or even a couple of gallons per acre are going to cure the problem.You have to be cautious when reading the literature as well. Often the yield trials mentioned are not replicated. Non replicated trials do not allow you to perform analysis to make sure that yield differences are being caused by the product applied. Or they may pick one study wherethere was a significant yield improvement, but don’t mention the other 23 where there was no difference. If you are tempted to try a new product, only try it on a couple of acres and then talk with me about how to set up an in-field evaluation so you can really see if there is a difference. Ask for third party university test results. If all the research is being done by the company, or person, trying to sell it to you, be suspicious. And if you are still tempted, bring me the literature and let’s look into it deeper before you spend any money on it.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: If it sounds too good to be true

The Walk KS program has been a signature program for K-State Research and Extension for more than 20 years. In fact, I’m guessing that many of you reading this column have participated as a team member, tracking your minutes of exercise during the 8 weeklong program. I have a dresser drawer full of colorful Walk KS t-shirts from every year and I wear them proudly. Three years ago, when we were walking along a Florida beach with our son, I was wearing a Walk KS t-shirt when a lady came up to me excitedly and asked, “Where in Kansas are you from?” When I said Great Bend, she said to her husband, “Isn’t that where our new neighbors are from?” We found out her new neighbor had taught both of our sons in fifth grade many years earlier! What a small world!

Walk Kansas is a team-based program that will help you and others lead a healthier life. When you join this program, you can:

Ø Be more active with friends and family Ø Make better nutrition choices Ø Walk away your stress

As a fitness challenge, Walk Kansas invites friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers to form teams of six to cover the equivalent of the 423-mile distance from Kansas’ east to west borders during the eight-week program. A number of years ago, the reporting was simplified as participants turned in minutes of exercise each week. The goal is to encourage at least 30 minutes of aerobic heart-healthy physical activity five or

more days a week. Knowing that others are counting on you to contribute can be a motivator. Other plusses for the program include encouragement and practical ideas for healthy living through newsletters, recipes, educational programs, and special events.

The cost to register for Walk KS is $10. This covers the cost to produce a weekly newsletter and the administration of the program. Registration also covers the cost of a box meal that will be provided at a Walk KS celebration event held at the Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend on Wednesday, May 25th. Ordering a t-shirt is optional and can be done on-line. This year the t-shirt colors are heather clay and heather teal.

Our goal is to get everyone who is interested to register during the first three weeks in March. So, get your team organized, come up with a catchy team name and get those walking shoes dusted off. Walk KS 2022 is just around the corner!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645734974921.png" alt="written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The Walk KS program has been a signature program for K-State Research and Extension for more than 20 years. In fact, I’m guessing that many of you reading this column have participated as a team member, tracking your minutes of exercise during the 8 weeklong program. I have a dresser drawer full of colorful Walk KS t-shirts from every year and I wear them proudly. Three years ago, when we were walking along a Florida beach with our son, I was wearing a Walk KS t-shirt when a lady came up to me excitedly and asked, “Where in Kansas are you from?” When I said Great Bend, she said to her husband, “Isn’t that where our new neighbors are from?” We found out her new neighbor had taught both of our sons in fifth grade many years earlier! What a small world!Walk Kansas is a team-based program that will help you and others lead a healthier life. When you join this program, you can:Ø Be more active with friends and family Ø Make better nutrition choices Ø Walk away your stressAs a fitness challenge, Walk Kansas invites friends, neighbors, family, and co-workers to form teams of six to cover the equivalent of the 423-mile distance from Kansas’ east to west borders during the eight-week program. A number of years ago, the reporting was simplified as participants turned in minutes of exercise each week. The goal is to encourage at least 30 minutes of aerobic heart-healthy physical activity five ormore days a week. Knowing that others are counting on you to contribute can be a motivator. Other plusses for the program include encouragement and practical ideas for healthy living through newsletters, recipes, educational programs, and special events.The cost to register for Walk KS is $10. This covers the cost to produce a weekly newsletter and the administration of the program. Registration also covers the cost of a box meal that will be provided at a Walk KS celebration event held at the Jack Kilby Square in Great Bend on Wednesday, May 25th. Ordering a t-shirt is optional and can be done on-line. This year the t-shirt colors are heather clay and heather teal.Our goal is to get everyone who is interested to register during the first three weeks in March. So, get your team organized, come up with a catchy team name and get those walking shoes dusted off. Walk KS 2022 is just around the corner!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family and Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Walk Kansas program set to begin March 27

In crop production we know that fertilizer is an important part of producing a good crop. We also know that it can be an expensive part of that crop production bill. Depending on the crop it can be 20 to nearly 50% of direct costs and 15 to 30% of total costs. This year it may be even higher. Compared to late last summer, fertilizer prices have risen steeply. Increases have ranged from 100% to over 200% depending on the type of fertilizer. (Homeowners and gardeners need to be prepared to see higher prices for their fertilizers also). While prices may have moderated slightly in recent weeks, we are still looking at fertilizer costs that may be nearly double what they were last year.

The first instinct for many is to blindly cut fertilizer application rates. While reducing application rates will definitely reduce how much you spend, it can also increase the cost per bushel as yields may very well drop. We are dealing with an economics principle known as the law of diminishing returns. The biggest response comes from the first pound of fertilizer applied. As you add more fertilizer the yield increases and the cost of production, per bushel, goes down, up to a point. You then get to the point where additional fertilizer doesn’t increase gain enough to justify the expense and cost per bushel starts to go back up. All of these factors depend on price of the fertilizer applied and value of the product produced.

As you make your fertility plans for any crop production this year, it is important NOT to make a knee jerk reaction on cutting fertilizer rates. Start with a good soil test so we can properly account for the nutrients that you already have in your fields. Some years I might encourage you to build soil nutrient levels for nutrients like phosphorus (P). This is not one of those years.

However, if you have been building P in your soil profile and have &gt;20 ppm in the 0-6 inch soil profile. This is the year you could reap the benefits. By significantly cutting back P based on your yield goal.

Once we know what’s in the soil, we can determine a cost appropriate fertilizer application rate that won’t break the bank, hopefully. High prices do not negate the plant’s biological need for proper nutrient levels for good growth and decent yields. Now is not the time of making irrational decisions. Now is the time to approach crop production with a keen management mind to get the best return on your dollar!

If you have any questions or need to utilize our soil sampling probes to take your own soil samples--give us a call or drop by the Cottonwood District Offices in Hays and Great Bend.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645734786211.png" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>In crop production we know that fertilizer is an important part of producing a good crop. We also know that it can be an expensive part of that crop production bill. Depending on the crop it can be 20 to nearly 50% of direct costs and 15 to 30% of total costs. This year it may be even higher. Compared to late last summer, fertilizer prices have risen steeply. Increases have ranged from 100% to over 200% depending on the type of fertilizer. (Homeowners and gardeners need to be prepared to see higher prices for their fertilizers also). While prices may have moderated slightly in recent weeks, we are still looking at fertilizer costs that may be nearly double what they were last year.The first instinct for many is to blindly cut fertilizer application rates. While reducing application rates will definitely reduce how much you spend, it can also increase the cost per bushel as yields may very well drop. We are dealing with an economics principle known as the law of diminishing returns. The biggest response comes from the first pound of fertilizer applied. As you add more fertilizer the yield increases and the cost of production, per bushel, goes down, up to a point. You then get to the point where additional fertilizer doesn’t increase gain enough to justify the expense and cost per bushel starts to go back up. All of these factors depend on price of the fertilizer applied and value of the product produced.As you make your fertility plans for any crop production this year, it is important NOT to make a knee jerk reaction on cutting fertilizer rates. Start with a good soil test so we can properly account for the nutrients that you already have in your fields. Some years I might encourage you to build soil nutrient levels for nutrients like phosphorus (P). This is not one of those years.However, if you have been building P in your soil profile and have &gt;20 ppm in the 0-6 inch soil profile. This is the year you could reap the benefits. By significantly cutting back P based on your yield goal.Once we know what’s in the soil, we can determine a cost appropriate fertilizer application rate that won’t break the bank, hopefully. High prices do not negate the plant’s biological need for proper nutrient levels for good growth and decent yields. Now is not the time of making irrational decisions. Now is the time to approach crop production with a keen management mind to get the best return on your dollar!If you have any questions or need to utilize our soil sampling probes to take your own soil samples--give us a call or drop by the Cottonwood District Offices in Hays and Great Bend.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: How much fertilizer can I afford?

Soil tests are a valuable tool that many home gardeners don’t utilize.

“Most gardeners think that soil tests are done only to find out what nutrients are deficient,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham. “However, it is just as important to know if you have adequate levels of nutrients so you don’t add unneeded fertilizer.”

Upham said soil testing not only saves money from adding excess to the garden, but also helps plants thrive by balancing nutrients and helps the environment by limiting fertilizer pollution. He urges gardeners to take a soil test this spring if one hasn’t been done in several years.

How to Perform a Soil Test Upham said gardeners will need a clean plastic bucket, a soil probe and a trowel.

“The first step in taking a soil test is planning where the samples will be taken,” he said.k “Samples should be taken from several dry areas in the garden or lawn.”

· Take eight sub-samples from the same area.

· Mix sub-samples together in a clean container.

· From the mixed sub-samples, select 1 pint of soil.

“After you have all your samples, take your soil to your local K-State Research and Extension office and pay a fee to have it tested at the soil lab,” Upham said.

For more detailed instructions, visit K-State's department of agronomy’s page dedicated to soil test.

What a Test Does and Does Not Tell You According to Upham, soil tests will indicate the pH levels and presence of phosphorus and potassium – common ingredients in fertilizer. The test can also identify other nutrients, if desired.

“Though soil tests are useful for identifying nutrient deficiencies and soil pH, they do not tell the whole story,” Upham said. “We often receive soils from gardeners that are having a difficult time growing crops even though the soil test shows the pH is fine and the nutrients are not deficient.”

If plants are still not thriving after adequate soil test results, Upham said some reasons my include not enough sun, lack of organic matter in clay soil, excessive or improper watering, nearby herbicide-producing walnut trees, nearby tree roots, or shallow soils.

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>Soil tests are a valuable tool that many home gardeners don’t utilize.“Most gardeners think that soil tests are done only to find out what nutrients are deficient,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham. “However, it is just as important to know if you have adequate levels of nutrients so you don’t add unneeded fertilizer.”Upham said soil testing not only saves money from adding excess to the garden, but also helps plants thrive by balancing nutrients and helps the environment by limiting fertilizer pollution. He urges gardeners to take a soil test this spring if one hasn’t been done in several years.How to Perform a Soil Test Upham said gardeners will need a clean plastic bucket, a soil probe and a trowel.“The first step in taking a soil test is planning where the samples will be taken,” he said.k “Samples should be taken from several dry areas in the garden or lawn.”Then, according to Upham:· Dig 6-8 inches deep in the soil.· Take eight sub-samples from the same area.· Mix sub-samples together in a clean container.· From the mixed sub-samples, select 1 pint of soil.· Leave your sample to air-dry.“After you have all your samples, take your soil to your local K-State Research and Extension office and pay a fee to have it tested at the soil lab,” Upham said.For more detailed instructions, visit K-State's department of agronomy’s page dedicated to soil test.What a Test Does and Does Not Tell You According to Upham, soil tests will indicate the pH levels and presence of phosphorus and potassium – common ingredients in fertilizer. The test can also identify other nutrients, if desired.“Though soil tests are useful for identifying nutrient deficiencies and soil pH, they do not tell the whole story,” Upham said. “We often receive soils from gardeners that are having a difficult time growing crops even though the soil test shows the pH is fine and the nutrients are not deficient.”If plants are still not thriving after adequate soil test results, Upham said some reasons my include not enough sun, lack of organic matter in clay soil, excessive or improper watering, nearby herbicide-producing walnut trees, nearby tree roots, or shallow soils.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Soil tests

Writing a final news column has proven to be more difficult than I expected. I started last week and then started again and the words just don’t seem to want to be in print. I thought I had a great amount of wisdom to share but maybe the words will develop into a final column next week.

Friday, February 25th will be my final official day in the Cottonwood Extension District Office in Hays. I have asked Donna Maskus, a master food volunteer for many years, to help me with a program on scones and the program will be held in Hays. If you would like to join us Friday, February 25th beginning at 12:10 pm, we will meet at the Extension Office meeting room at 601 Main Street in Hays.

Following the program we you can stop by anytime between 1 and 3 pm on Friday for some scones and tea. Donna and I have baked and tried a variety of recipes and we will share the best with you in a handout. We also have many past Kansas Wheat Commission booklets from the past that we would like to share.

I realize most Barton County friends won’t drive to Hays but never fear I know I will see you in the future. If you are not able to come, we can still get you a handout with scone recipes. Don’t be a stranger to the Extension Office and all the Extension activities in the future.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="written by: Berny Unruh - Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Berny Unruh - Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Writing a final news column has proven to be more difficult than I expected. I started last week and then started again and the words just don’t seem to want to be in print. I thought I had a great amount of wisdom to share but maybe the words will develop into a final column next week.Friday, February 25th will be my final official day in the Cottonwood Extension District Office in Hays. I have asked Donna Maskus, a master food volunteer for many years, to help me with a program on scones and the program will be held in Hays. If you would like to join us Friday, February 25th beginning at 12:10 pm, we will meet at the Extension Office meeting room at 601 Main Street in Hays.Following the program we you can stop by anytime between 1 and 3 pm on Friday for some scones and tea. Donna and I have baked and tried a variety of recipes and we will share the best with you in a handout. We also have many past Kansas Wheat Commission booklets from the past that we would like to share.I realize most Barton County friends won’t drive to Hays but never fear I know I will see you in the future. If you are not able to come, we can still get you a handout with scone recipes. Don’t be a stranger to the Extension Office and all the Extension activities in the future.I don’t believe in forever good-byes. I know I will meet up with you in the future. Good Luck to all of you as you continue your good work in your community. And if those words of wisdom pop into my mind this week, maybe I will be allowed one more column.Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at bunruh@ksu.edu