Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering a "Let's Talk Water Science"&nbsp;summer camp for students who have completed grades 7, 8, or 9.

The event – set for Thursday, June 9, and Friday, June 10 – is being co-sponsored by the KWEC, the City of Hays Water Resources Department, Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment, and K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District (Barton and Ellis counties).

Students will get in the water and test the water quality (waders will be provided by the KWEC). Students will collect data on alkalinity, bacteria, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, phosphates, temperature, and turbidity. Campers will also sample the water for aquatic invertebrates and use them to determine water quality.

The first day of camp will be spent at Frontier Park in Hays, and water testing will take place in Big Creek. In the afternoon, campers will tour the City of Hays Wastewater Treatment Plant. In any given year, approximately 25% of the treated water is beneficially used as irrigation water for multiple outdoor recreation facilities.

Day 2 will be spent at Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest wetland complex in the interior of the United States, and at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center near Great Bend. Students will repeat water quality tests and invertebrate sampling in the wetland and compare the results from the previous day. Benefits and functions of wetlands will be studied. The day will include a driving tour of the wetlands in search of wildlife. The 4-H Water Ambassador team will supplement daily activities with hands-on and interactive projects.

Participation is free, and transportation between Hays and Great Bend, as well as all necessary equipment, will be provided. Campers will need to bring a sack lunch and reusable water bottle for each day; snacks will be provided.

Camp will start at 10 a.m. at Frontier Park on June 9. Transportation from the Kansas Wetlands Education Center to Hays will leave at 8:45 a.m. Camp is dismissed at 3:15 p.m. Campers traveling back to the KWEC should return at 4:30 p.m.

The Friday camp will start at 10 a.m. at Cheyenne Bottoms. Transportation from Hays to Cheyenne Bottoms will leave at 8:45 a.m. from the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 601 Main St. Barton County campers can meet at the KWEC at 9:30 a.m. Camp is dismissed from the KWEC at 3:15 p.m. Campers traveling back to Hays should return at 4:30 p.m.

The KWEC, 592 NE K-156 Highway, is at the southeast side of Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area northeast of Great Bend.

Registration is limited to 12 – six campers from Ellis County and six from Barton County. Registration deadline is May 27.

To register for an event or camp go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDI4Fbv2aCJ7wVn3UMG-2B6d7EPIvnUo7uIbKANOQy6jAEsXA2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemcaW3ZQkmBBPB6VX2tAxPb4ZaAYbMJwViPE5bmuVrSvTHDWyEz96nEbWyYgV-2BI3yxPrDN8tg-2BB-2BH41L1Sfd-2BSx80zji2J-2BIUYz1BFv8ShmhUheviwvkoswHHSKxOny2MNWpX8vvPqwzGd-2FBUi0OfhwQ-2FndvhYJNq9Yd9bUGvq2TRte87SLXXuQMZzJG-2FqfggeV10gcGYgFbGkgqtE0C1aK9Kwl-2FOE7HRfJR1mDh39DvyylDURhYdqSvL7oEw5oHUqJbCeMgoIcXoBFza7lrwgYA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/cqaCp862fH4QcP9p9</a>&nbsp;or email Mandy Kern at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amkern2@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">amkern2@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;for the link. For more information on the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMCDkFVbWlkuYggWR1l9m3niOQl9kmqWr-2FsCfzG-2FTJVW1Xdl_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemcaW3ZQkmBBPB6VX2tAxPb4ZaAYbMJwViPE5bmuVrSvTHDWyEz96nEbWyYgV-2BI3yxPrDN8tg-2BB-2BH41L1Sfd-2BSx6sux8g6xLKsSxkUh2hBVi-2B-2BN83yvz9vbp0yB-2BKXvgE0mYHV1Au7-2F8B9JzZWfgMlvIGdNxe4KAbsU0VqoG7by36624C5-2BAVzQBBO3swYUgqybhcG3DyCneB4iDN8Bzml1zlK-2FKTHyisEwlRgRyKQqc8nVaAy8PH1lhZwtwipnIP6K3kSDLpc8a-2FSaR5Oh4zxDA-3D-3D">https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650820679972.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wetlands Education Center is offering a "Let's Talk Water Science"&nbsp;summer camp for students who have completed grades 7, 8, or 9.The event – set for Thursday, June 9, and Friday, June 10 – is being co-sponsored by the KWEC, the City of Hays Water Resources Department, Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment, and K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District (Barton and Ellis counties).Students will get in the water and test the water quality (waders will be provided by the KWEC). Students will collect data on alkalinity, bacteria, dissolved oxygen, nitrates, pH, phosphates, temperature, and turbidity. Campers will also sample the water for aquatic invertebrates and use them to determine water quality.The first day of camp will be spent at Frontier Park in Hays, and water testing will take place in Big Creek. In the afternoon, campers will tour the City of Hays Wastewater Treatment Plant. In any given year, approximately 25% of the treated water is beneficially used as irrigation water for multiple outdoor recreation facilities.Day 2 will be spent at Cheyenne Bottoms, the largest wetland complex in the interior of the United States, and at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center near Great Bend. Students will repeat water quality tests and invertebrate sampling in the wetland and compare the results from the previous day. Benefits and functions of wetlands will be studied. The day will include a driving tour of the wetlands in search of wildlife. The 4-H Water Ambassador team will supplement daily activities with hands-on and interactive projects.Participation is free, and transportation between Hays and Great Bend, as well as all necessary equipment, will be provided. Campers will need to bring a sack lunch and reusable water bottle for each day; snacks will be provided.Camp will start at 10 a.m. at Frontier Park on June 9. Transportation from the Kansas Wetlands Education Center to Hays will leave at 8:45 a.m. Camp is dismissed at 3:15 p.m. Campers traveling back to the KWEC should return at 4:30 p.m.The Friday camp will start at 10 a.m. at Cheyenne Bottoms. Transportation from Hays to Cheyenne Bottoms will leave at 8:45 a.m. from the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 601 Main St. Barton County campers can meet at the KWEC at 9:30 a.m. Camp is dismissed from the KWEC at 3:15 p.m. Campers traveling back to Hays should return at 4:30 p.m.The KWEC, 592 NE K-156 Highway, is at the southeast side of Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area northeast of Great Bend.Registration is limited to 12 – six campers from Ellis County and six from Barton County. Registration deadline is May 27.To register for an event or camp go to:&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtDI4Fbv2aCJ7wVn3UMG-2B6d7EPIvnUo7uIbKANOQy6jAEsXA2_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemcaW3ZQkmBBPB6VX2tAxPb4ZaAYbMJwViPE5bmuVrSvTHDWyEz96nEbWyYgV-2BI3yxPrDN8tg-2BB-2BH41L1Sfd-2BSx80zji2J-2BIUYz1BFv8ShmhUheviwvkoswHHSKxOny2MNWpX8vvPqwzGd-2FBUi0OfhwQ-2FndvhYJNq9Yd9bUGvq2TRte87SLXXuQMZzJG-2FqfggeV10gcGYgFbGkgqtE0C1aK9Kwl-2FOE7HRfJR1mDh39DvyylDURhYdqSvL7oEw5oHUqJbCeMgoIcXoBFza7lrwgYA-3D-3D" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/cqaCp862fH4QcP9p9</a>&nbsp;or email Mandy Kern at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:amkern2@fhsu.edu" target="_blank">amkern2@fhsu.edu</a>&nbsp;for the link. For more information on the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=-2BFJoAhsjp8losQfY8t-2BZtMCDkFVbWlkuYggWR1l9m3niOQl9kmqWr-2FsCfzG-2FTJVW1Xdl_-2FnwFlkKVzcKMOkDYhP8GUyFUplsqhIzQPvqFQr864lE6mcAzErX0FzZi5JGU6rvvK6MLOuHK4jhl5V61fmGkhToZRMbpEKBDAFMZ0jElT3tJmz7vmG2Oh1wrxpMGOIemcaW3ZQkmBBPB6VX2tAxPb4ZaAYbMJwViPE5bmuVrSvTHDWyEz96nEbWyYgV-2BI3yxPrDN8tg-2BB-2BH41L1Sfd-2BSx6sux8g6xLKsSxkUh2hBVi-2B-2BN83yvz9vbp0yB-2BKXvgE0mYHV1Au7-2F8B9JzZWfgMlvIGdNxe4KAbsU0VqoG7by36624C5-2BAVzQBBO3swYUgqybhcG3DyCneB4iDN8Bzml1zlK-2FKTHyisEwlRgRyKQqc8nVaAy8PH1lhZwtwipnIP6K3kSDLpc8a-2FSaR5Oh4zxDA-3D-3D">https://wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu/</a>.

KWEC to offer water science camp this summer

Kansas State University crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth said he has received numerous calls from farmers who are already seeing cowpea and pea aphids in their alfalfa fields.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The aphids, he said, are probably in every field in Kansas, but “we usually do not see this many of them this early.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said the cowpea aphid population density that producers are seeing now is more typical of June or July, usually with the second or third alfalfa cutting. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“Alfalfa is a good host for beneficial insects, so when we see lady beetles over winter and they start going around feeding they’ll find some cowpea aphids or pea aphids because they arrive early in the season,” Whitworth said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Because of that, “I still have a hard time recommending treating for aphids, whether they’re cowpea aphids or pea aphids." &nbsp;Whitworth said many producers worry about the honeydew on alfalfa plants that cowpea aphids produce. “If you’re really worried about them, I really don’t think there’s a specific percentage that creates the need for the aphids to be treated,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

If a producer decides to treat for aphids, Whitworth said they may want to consider one of the new insecticides that are labeled for alfalfa aphids.

“If producers leave them untreated, I think the beneficial insects will find them and start helping to control them a little bit,” Whitworth said.

According to Whitworth, spraying for alfalfa weevils will also kill the aphid populations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He said that a producer should choose to spray alfalfa weevils once the weevils are found on at least 50% of the alfalfa plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Whitworth said that the alfalfa plant does not need to be luscious on top when spraying alfalfa weevils because the treatment should still be effective in decreasing or eliminating alfalfa weevils from the field.&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>Kansas State University crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth said he has received numerous calls from farmers who are already seeing cowpea and pea aphids in their alfalfa fields.&nbsp;&nbsp;The aphids, he said, are probably in every field in Kansas, but “we usually do not see this many of them this early.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He said the cowpea aphid population density that producers are seeing now is more typical of June or July, usually with the second or third alfalfa cutting. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Alfalfa is a good host for beneficial insects, so when we see lady beetles over winter and they start going around feeding they’ll find some cowpea aphids or pea aphids because they arrive early in the season,” Whitworth said. &nbsp;&nbsp;Because of that, “I still have a hard time recommending treating for aphids, whether they’re cowpea aphids or pea aphids." &nbsp;Whitworth said many producers worry about the honeydew on alfalfa plants that cowpea aphids produce. “If you’re really worried about them, I really don’t think there’s a specific percentage that creates the need for the aphids to be treated,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;If a producer decides to treat for aphids, Whitworth said they may want to consider one of the new insecticides that are labeled for alfalfa aphids.“If producers leave them untreated, I think the beneficial insects will find them and start helping to control them a little bit,” Whitworth said.According to Whitworth, spraying for alfalfa weevils will also kill the aphid populations. &nbsp;&nbsp;He said that a producer should choose to spray alfalfa weevils once the weevils are found on at least 50% of the alfalfa plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;Whitworth said that the alfalfa plant does not need to be luscious on top when spraying alfalfa weevils because the treatment should still be effective in decreasing or eliminating alfalfa weevils from the field.&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: Farmers seeing aphids in alfalfa fields

As planting season for corn is around the corner, producers need to determine their corn seeding rates. The plant density necessary to optimize yields (optimal plant density, or OPD) depends on the expected available resources, mainly water and nutrients.

Plant density needs to be determined seasonally, depending on the expected growing conditions. In rainy years, a producer may increase the target plant density and obtain an increase in profit provided there is sufficient nitrogen fertilization. Under dry conditions, farmers should consider cutting back on plant density. This applies primarily to dryland corn production.

The upcoming season is expected to be drier and hotter than normal in much of the Corn Belt region, thus yield expectations should be adjusted accordingly. Depending on the combination of current environmental conditions (soil and climate) and forecast, the economic optimum plant density will have to differ from the one used in an average or good growing season.

Based on the weather forecasts released in March, there is a clear signal indicating the need to consider using lower-than-normal plant densities for dryland corn in many areas of Kansas this spring. That is due to the combination of predicted below normal rainfall and high temperatures Many sections of the state show a potential need to reduce optimal plant density (OPD) for corn (at least 2,000 plants/acre) to adjust for the current and expected weather conditions.

To view the charts and information related to the forecasted optimum plant density (OPD) for the 2022 summer season, relative to the 2018 optimum for corn (wet Year) across the region and in Kansas go to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/

You will see colors represent whether the recommended change is to increase (green) or decrease (orange) the target plant density (OPD) from what would be used in a wet year. Upper panel shows the potential changes for the Corn Belt region, and lower panel refers to the changes in plant density for Kansas.

In summary, 2022 is predicted to be a challenging season in much of Kansas, thus farmers should consider reducing their seeding rates for dryland corn. The utilization of probabilistic and dynamic models such as the one presented here, can help producers

make real-time decisions to adjust inputs based on current soil moisture conditions and seasonal weather forecasts.

Information provided by Ignacio Ciampitti, Extension Farming &amp; Cropping Systems specialist and Josefina Lacasa, PhD student.

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>As planting season for corn is around the corner, producers need to determine their corn seeding rates. The plant density necessary to optimize yields (optimal plant density, or OPD) depends on the expected available resources, mainly water and nutrients.Plant density needs to be determined seasonally, depending on the expected growing conditions. In rainy years, a producer may increase the target plant density and obtain an increase in profit provided there is sufficient nitrogen fertilization. Under dry conditions, farmers should consider cutting back on plant density. This applies primarily to dryland corn production.The upcoming season is expected to be drier and hotter than normal in much of the Corn Belt region, thus yield expectations should be adjusted accordingly. Depending on the combination of current environmental conditions (soil and climate) and forecast, the economic optimum plant density will have to differ from the one used in an average or good growing season.Based on the weather forecasts released in March, there is a clear signal indicating the need to consider using lower-than-normal plant densities for dryland corn in many areas of Kansas this spring. That is due to the combination of predicted below normal rainfall and high temperatures Many sections of the state show a potential need to reduce optimal plant density (OPD) for corn (at least 2,000 plants/acre) to adjust for the current and expected weather conditions.To view the charts and information related to the forecasted optimum plant density (OPD) for the 2022 summer season, relative to the 2018 optimum for corn (wet Year) across the region and in Kansas go to https://eupdate.agronomy.ksu.edu/You will see colors represent whether the recommended change is to increase (green) or decrease (orange) the target plant density (OPD) from what would be used in a wet year. Upper panel shows the potential changes for the Corn Belt region, and lower panel refers to the changes in plant density for Kansas.In summary, 2022 is predicted to be a challenging season in much of Kansas, thus farmers should consider reducing their seeding rates for dryland corn. The utilization of probabilistic and dynamic models such as the one presented here, can help producersmake real-time decisions to adjust inputs based on current soil moisture conditions and seasonal weather forecasts.Information provided by Ignacio Ciampitti, Extension Farming &amp; Cropping Systems specialist and Josefina Lacasa, PhD student.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: Adjust corn plant density for 2022 season

Considering they spend most of their time underground, it may seem surprising the damage that moles do above ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;

As they forage for food, moles are known to make travel lanes that cause meandering paths of upheaved soil in home lawns and farmsteads. Moles do not feed on plant matter, but they can still cause damage by disturbing roots and uprooting small plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Some tunnels may be abandoned soon after they’re built, while others are used for a period of time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said homeowners have come up with many remedies – chewing gum, noisemakers, broken glass, bleaches, windmills and human hair among them – but none have provided consistent or reliable control.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Poison baits also fail to work because moles feed on earthworms and grubs, not vegetable matter,” Upham said. “Even grub control products are ineffective because they do not control earthworms,” which are the primary food source for moles.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Grim as it may sound, traps are the best control method for moles, according to Upham.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“There are three types of traps: harpoon, choker and scissor-jawed,” he said. “Each can be effective but may take some time to master.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

More information on preventing mole damage in home lawns or on a farm is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/species/moles/index.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension wildlife management program</a>&nbsp;or your local Extension Agent.&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>Considering they spend most of their time underground, it may seem surprising the damage that moles do above ground.&nbsp;&nbsp;As they forage for food, moles are known to make travel lanes that cause meandering paths of upheaved soil in home lawns and farmsteads. Moles do not feed on plant matter, but they can still cause damage by disturbing roots and uprooting small plants.&nbsp;&nbsp;Some tunnels may be abandoned soon after they’re built, while others are used for a period of time.&nbsp;&nbsp;Kansas State University horticulture expert Ward Upham said homeowners have come up with many remedies – chewing gum, noisemakers, broken glass, bleaches, windmills and human hair among them – but none have provided consistent or reliable control.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Poison baits also fail to work because moles feed on earthworms and grubs, not vegetable matter,” Upham said. “Even grub control products are ineffective because they do not control earthworms,” which are the primary food source for moles.&nbsp;&nbsp;Grim as it may sound, traps are the best control method for moles, according to Upham.&nbsp;&nbsp;“There are three types of traps: harpoon, choker and scissor-jawed,” he said. “Each can be effective but may take some time to master.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He offered the following advice: <ul>
 <li>Because moles use some tunnels more than others, use a broomstick or similar item to poke holes in a number of runs. Check a day later to see which runs have been repaired. These are the active runs. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Place a trap in an active run by excavating soil, placing the trap and then replacing loose soil. Secure the trap so that the recoil will not lift the trap out of the ground. Make sure the triggering mechanism is not in the center of the run. &nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Push down two holes, one on each side of the trap. Moles should be caught when they try to repair the tunnel. Move the traps if no moles are caught within three days.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>More information on preventing mole damage in home lawns or on a farm is available online from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wildlife.k-state.edu/species/moles/index.html" target="_blank">K-State Research and Extension wildlife management program</a>&nbsp;or your local Extension Agent.&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: Mole control

On Tuesday, April 19 beginning at 4 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays. The Cottonwood, Midway and Post Rock Extension Districts will be hosting a Pasture Management Before and After a Wildfire program.

K-State Research &amp; Extension rangeland specialists Walt Fick will discuss prescribed burns and management following wildfire, Keith Harmoney will go over his findings on recent and historical wildfires on pasture productivity and plant population in Ellis County, Chip Redmond K-State Mesonet will talk about the weather outlook for this coming season and rounding out the evening program will be Clint Laflin, Midway District Livestock agent talking about the experiences in the 4-county fire and overview and lastly then there will be a Town Hall – Q &amp; A session.

RSVP for the meal count has been extended to Monday, April 18 at 12 noon. Call Cottonwood District Office in Hays at 785-628-9430 that’s 628-9430 or email Theresa at tam3@ksu.edu to reserve your spot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1650036710147.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>On Tuesday, April 19 beginning at 4 p.m. at the Agricultural Research Center – Hays. The Cottonwood, Midway and Post Rock Extension Districts will be hosting a Pasture Management Before and After a Wildfire program.K-State Research &amp; Extension rangeland specialists Walt Fick will discuss prescribed burns and management following wildfire, Keith Harmoney will go over his findings on recent and historical wildfires on pasture productivity and plant population in Ellis County, Chip Redmond K-State Mesonet will talk about the weather outlook for this coming season and rounding out the evening program will be Clint Laflin, Midway District Livestock agent talking about the experiences in the 4-county fire and overview and lastly then there will be a Town Hall – Q &amp; A session.RSVP for the meal count has been extended to Monday, April 18 at 12 noon. Call Cottonwood District Office in Hays at 785-628-9430 that’s 628-9430 or email Theresa at tam3@ksu.edu to reserve your spot.

Pasture Management Before and After a Wildfire

April 17 through 23 is recognized as National Volunteer Week.

Take just a moment and think about people in your world who volunteer for others; those who spend time helping at the food bank, coaching youth sports, teaching in faith-based programs, are members of civic organizations, clean up ditches, and especially, in our rural communities, give of themselves as volunteer firefighters and first responders.

I am currently listening to the audio book “Blue Mind” by Wallace J. Nichols which has a focus and much research about how our lives and mindset are impacted by nature and, in particular, water. I know for myself, this landlocked Kansas girl is drawn to streams, ponds, rivers, and beaches of every sort. Much of this book speaks to me but I especially love the section about Blue Marbles. According to the website, wallacejnichols.org, this is an initiative that began in 2009 at a speaking engagement with the idea of using that simple, accessible symbol of our Earth to share a message of gratitude. Mr. Nichols encouraged listeners to hold the marble at arm’s length and recognize its similarity to the Earth as seen from space. Next, he asked that they hold it up close and look at their world through the blue. Do we step back and look at our world to truly see those who give unselfishly of their time and talents? I appreciate the “rules” of the initiative which are

1) The marble must be blue of any shade and, because this relates to caring for our planet and the water on it, preferably made of recycled glass!

2) When you get one, give it away to someone as a token of gratitude and tell them WHY

3) Share your story with the world however you want

This idea of sharing our appreciation for someone and being specific really resonates with me. 4-H couldn’t function without volunteers. Wonderful adults who make time as club leaders, project leaders, and event volunteers. These adults set examples and help young people have a structure to learn, grow, and explore their world. They use research-based curriculum to guide youth to finding the spark that ignites their interest, and potentially, careers.

We have nine 4-H clubs across Barton County plus Shooting Sports instructors, Junior Leader, Livestock, and 4-H Council advisers and I am grateful for each one. I think I need to track down some blue marbles!

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>April 17 through 23 is recognized as National Volunteer Week.Take just a moment and think about people in your world who volunteer for others; those who spend time helping at the food bank, coaching youth sports, teaching in faith-based programs, are members of civic organizations, clean up ditches, and especially, in our rural communities, give of themselves as volunteer firefighters and first responders.I am currently listening to the audio book “Blue Mind” by Wallace J. Nichols which has a focus and much research about how our lives and mindset are impacted by nature and, in particular, water. I know for myself, this landlocked Kansas girl is drawn to streams, ponds, rivers, and beaches of every sort. Much of this book speaks to me but I especially love the section about Blue Marbles. According to the website, wallacejnichols.org, this is an initiative that began in 2009 at a speaking engagement with the idea of using that simple, accessible symbol of our Earth to share a message of gratitude. Mr. Nichols encouraged listeners to hold the marble at arm’s length and recognize its similarity to the Earth as seen from space. Next, he asked that they hold it up close and look at their world through the blue. Do we step back and look at our world to truly see those who give unselfishly of their time and talents? I appreciate the “rules” of the initiative which are1) The marble must be blue of any shade and, because this relates to caring for our planet and the water on it, preferably made of recycled glass!2) When you get one, give it away to someone as a token of gratitude and tell them WHY3) Share your story with the world however you wantThis idea of sharing our appreciation for someone and being specific really resonates with me. 4-H couldn’t function without volunteers. Wonderful adults who make time as club leaders, project leaders, and event volunteers. These adults set examples and help young people have a structure to learn, grow, and explore their world. They use research-based curriculum to guide youth to finding the spark that ignites their interest, and potentially, careers.We have nine 4-H clubs across Barton County plus Shooting Sports instructors, Junior Leader, Livestock, and 4-H Council advisers and I am grateful for each one. I think I need to track down some blue marbles!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: Volunteers

In Extension we hear it a lot. I was not aware of that information, what did you say it was and where can I find it? We all realize that with a smart phone in hand that accessing information has never been more readily available, of course there is a tremendous amount of information to filter through in order to find what you are looking for.

One thing I am trying to get in a better habit of telling people, is if you are looking for something from K-State Research &amp; Extension (KSRE), type the subject and then comma KSU into your internet browser. For example, if you are looking for weed control in home lawns, type “weed control in home lawns, KSU” and you will get the fact sheet or short publication on “Weed Control in Home Lawns” by KSRE. Another way to get just land-grant or research based information is after typing in the subject you are seeking put a comma or the + sign and site:edu, (i.e. Weed Control in Home Lawns, site:edu).

A good podcast to listen to is titled “War Against Weeds” and has some of the latest weed information for 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.

There are currently about 40 full-length episodes available, including eleven new episodes that have been uploaded since January. Season three episodes have included topics that range from kochia biology and management to the influence of the Endangered Species Act enforcement on weed management. Episodes remaining for season three include an update on herbicide resistant weed research and a discussion about using drones for weed management. Episodes are approximately 30 minutes long and free to access. They are posted at https://waragainstweeds.libsyn.com/ in addition to being available on Spotify, iTunes, and Google Podcasts. If you have any suggestions for future episodes, contact Sarah Lancaster by email at slancaster@ksu.edu

The Cottonwood Extension District is part of the land grant university system and Kansas State University and KSRE is within that system or umbrella. In all 105 counties in Kansas there is a county or district extension office. We have lots and lots of research based information on many different topics and we at the Cottonwood District and KSRE are continuing to use social media to push information out as well.

<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>In Extension we hear it a lot. I was not aware of that information, what did you say it was and where can I find it? We all realize that with a smart phone in hand that accessing information has never been more readily available, of course there is a tremendous amount of information to filter through in order to find what you are looking for.One thing I am trying to get in a better habit of telling people, is if you are looking for something from K-State Research &amp; Extension (KSRE), type the subject and then comma KSU into your internet browser. For example, if you are looking for weed control in home lawns, type “weed control in home lawns, KSU” and you will get the fact sheet or short publication on “Weed Control in Home Lawns” by KSRE. Another way to get just land-grant or research based information is after typing in the subject you are seeking put a comma or the + sign and site:edu, (i.e. Weed Control in Home Lawns, site:edu).A good podcast to listen to is titled “War Against Weeds” and has some of the latest weed information for 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.There are currently about 40 full-length episodes available, including eleven new episodes that have been uploaded since January. Season three episodes have included topics that range from kochia biology and management to the influence of the Endangered Species Act enforcement on weed management. Episodes remaining for season three include an update on herbicide resistant weed research and a discussion about using drones for weed management. Episodes are approximately 30 minutes long and free to access. They are posted at https://waragainstweeds.libsyn.com/ in addition to being available on Spotify, iTunes, and Google Podcasts. If you have any suggestions for future episodes, contact Sarah Lancaster by email at slancaster@ksu.eduThe Cottonwood Extension District is part of the land grant university system and Kansas State University and KSRE is within that system or umbrella. In all 105 counties in Kansas there is a county or district extension office. We have lots and lots of research based information on many different topics and we at the Cottonwood District and KSRE are continuing to use social media to push information out as well.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: Weed management podcast wrapping up third season

Kansas State University veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek is urging beef cattle producers to review their herd’s vaccination and parasite control program as summer approaches. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He said vaccinations should be given to protect the cows against all the major reproductive infectious diseases before breeding season, including IBR (infectious bovine rhinotracheitis), BVD (bovine viral diarrhea), leptospirosis and campylobacter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Hanzlicek, those vaccinations should be given 45-60 days before the bulls will be released with the cows. “This allows enough time for the cows to respond to the vaccine and enough time for the cow to recover from any minor negative vaccine effects,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Use the same vaccine (and) the same vaccine schedule for the bulls. Bulls are too often forgotten in vaccination programs.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition, Hanzlicek recommends insecticidal ear tags to control for flies this summer, saying “tags still provide the best protection against heavy fly infestations.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hanzlicek urges producers to tag cows and bulls. “Two tags per animal are more effective than one,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It might also be necessary to tag the calves in times when fly populations are very large, but producers should start with the cows.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hanzlicek said producers should rotate the fly tag’s chemistry to decrease the fly's ability to build resistance to the insecticide.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“If we continue to use products that have the same chemistry/insecticide, we breed for resistance,” he said. “Either a 2- or 3-year rotation is ideal, depending on the insecticides used.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

He adds: “It is also important to remember to remove the insecticide ear tags at the end of pasture season and dispose of them properly. Not doing this will build up insecticide resistance in the fly populations, and through time fly programs will become less and less effective.”&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>Kansas State University veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek is urging beef cattle producers to review their herd’s vaccination and parasite control program as summer approaches. &nbsp;&nbsp;He said vaccinations should be given to protect the cows against all the major reproductive infectious diseases before breeding season, including IBR (infectious bovine rhinotracheitis), BVD (bovine viral diarrhea), leptospirosis and campylobacter.&nbsp;&nbsp;According to Hanzlicek, those vaccinations should be given 45-60 days before the bulls will be released with the cows. “This allows enough time for the cows to respond to the vaccine and enough time for the cow to recover from any minor negative vaccine effects,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Use the same vaccine (and) the same vaccine schedule for the bulls. Bulls are too often forgotten in vaccination programs.”&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, Hanzlicek recommends insecticidal ear tags to control for flies this summer, saying “tags still provide the best protection against heavy fly infestations.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Hanzlicek urges producers to tag cows and bulls. “Two tags per animal are more effective than one,” he said. &nbsp;&nbsp;It might also be necessary to tag the calves in times when fly populations are very large, but producers should start with the cows.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hanzlicek said producers should rotate the fly tag’s chemistry to decrease the fly's ability to build resistance to the insecticide.&nbsp;&nbsp;“If we continue to use products that have the same chemistry/insecticide, we breed for resistance,” he said. “Either a 2- or 3-year rotation is ideal, depending on the insecticides used.”&nbsp;&nbsp;He adds: “It is also important to remember to remove the insecticide ear tags at the end of pasture season and dispose of them properly. Not doing this will build up insecticide resistance in the fly populations, and through time fly programs will become less and less effective.”&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: Herd health

Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course on Saturday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Hill City at the Graham County Fairgrounds 4-H Building.

The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents. However, there are several cases where youth may be required to take the training even though they are working on the “family farm.” For instance, if the parent is a partner or member of a farm corporation or if the youth is legally employed by grandparents, the law requires youth participate in the course. Any employer who plans to hire youth under 16 years of age must make sure they attend this tractor and farm safety course.

Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following. Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14). There is a $10 fee to attend and RSVP is requested by Friday, April 22nd. Thank you to our lunch and refreshment sponsor, People’s State Bank! This program is being offered and taught by Extension Agents in the Cottonwood, Twin Creeks, Golden Prairie and Phillips/Rooks Extension Districts. To register contact any of the above Extension Districts by Saturday, April 22 to register and pickup study materials before-hand.

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

Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture or Tractor and Farm Safety Course on Saturday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. in Hill City at the Graham County Fairgrounds 4-H Building.The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents. However, there are several cases where youth may be required to take the training even though they are working on the “family farm.” For instance, if the parent is a partner or member of a farm corporation or if the youth is legally employed by grandparents, the law requires youth participate in the course. Any employer who plans to hire youth under 16 years of age must make sure they attend this tractor and farm safety course.Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following. Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14). There is a $10 fee to attend and RSVP is requested by Friday, April 22nd. Thank you to our lunch and refreshment sponsor, People’s State Bank! This program is being offered and taught by Extension Agents in the Cottonwood, Twin Creeks, Golden Prairie and Phillips/Rooks Extension Districts. To register contact any of the above Extension Districts by Saturday, April 22 to register and pickup study materials before-hand.Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

Tractor & Farm Safety Course – April 30

With Easter just one week away, it is time to share the best food safety practices when handling those ever-popular Easter Eggs. It seems no matter how old we are, there is something special about preparing hard-cooked eggs and dying/decorating them for the family Easter Egg hunt. Read on for some great food safety reminders.

After hard cooking eggs, dye them and return them to the refrigerator within 2 hours. If eggs are to be eaten, use a food-safe coloring. Wash your hands before and after handling eggs.

Hard-cooked eggs that have been lying on the ground can pick up bacteria, especially if the shells are cracked. If the shells crack, bacteria could contaminate the inside. Hide eggs in locations protected from dirt, moisture, pets, and other sources of bacteria. Hide and hunt for the eggs within 2 hours. Toss any of the eggs that have cracked during the Easter Egg hunt. The “found” eggs must be washed, re-refrigerated, and eaten within 7 days of cooking.

The two-hour rule that I mentioned above is also the advice I give to anyone who is putting out a spread of food for a family celebration. Popular foods like salads and egg dishes should be kept cold, below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, until ready to serve. Mayonnaise in salads is very acidic and likely not a foodborne illness issue, but it is the other ingredients, such as potatoes, eggs, chicken, or pasta that can allow bacteria to thrive if handled poorly or temperature abused.

Another food safety tip is to read the label to know what type of ham you are purchasing, either fresh or ready-to-eat. Fresh ham labels will detail cooking instructions, and the label may state to cook thoroughly. Ready to eat ham can be served out of the package or reheated at an oven temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees.

Whatever you have on your Easter dinner menu, I hope you have a Happy Easter celebration with your family!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity 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>With Easter just one week away, it is time to share the best food safety practices when handling those ever-popular Easter Eggs. It seems no matter how old we are, there is something special about preparing hard-cooked eggs and dying/decorating them for the family Easter Egg hunt. Read on for some great food safety reminders.After hard cooking eggs, dye them and return them to the refrigerator within 2 hours. If eggs are to be eaten, use a food-safe coloring. Wash your hands before and after handling eggs.Hard-cooked eggs that have been lying on the ground can pick up bacteria, especially if the shells are cracked. If the shells crack, bacteria could contaminate the inside. Hide eggs in locations protected from dirt, moisture, pets, and other sources of bacteria. Hide and hunt for the eggs within 2 hours. Toss any of the eggs that have cracked during the Easter Egg hunt. The “found” eggs must be washed, re-refrigerated, and eaten within 7 days of cooking.The two-hour rule that I mentioned above is also the advice I give to anyone who is putting out a spread of food for a family celebration. Popular foods like salads and egg dishes should be kept cold, below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, until ready to serve. Mayonnaise in salads is very acidic and likely not a foodborne illness issue, but it is the other ingredients, such as potatoes, eggs, chicken, or pasta that can allow bacteria to thrive if handled poorly or temperature abused.Another food safety tip is to read the label to know what type of ham you are purchasing, either fresh or ready-to-eat. Fresh ham labels will detail cooking instructions, and the label may state to cook thoroughly. Ready to eat ham can be served out of the package or reheated at an oven temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit until the internal temperature reaches 140 degrees.Whatever you have on your Easter dinner menu, I hope you have a Happy Easter celebration with your family!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or dkrug@ksu.edu K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider.

KRUG: Easter Egg and Other Food Safety Questions Discussed

This program will provide the trainee with the knowledge and information of tractor safety and farm hazards. Safety training is required by the U.S. Department of Labor for youth ages 14-15 who will be working on a farm for someone other than their parents. However, there are many cases where youth need certification even when working on the "family farm". Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following.

Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14). Cost: FREE! Thanks to our sponsor, People's State Bank, for sponsoring the manual rental fee and lunch for all participants! (For those who want to purchase and keep a copy of the manual, there will be a $15 charge.) To take advantage of the free registration, please sign-up by April 21st at one of the following Extension Offices: Decatur County, Ellis County, Gove County, Graham County, Logan County, Norton County, Phillips County, Rooks County, Sheridan County, or Trego County. Trego County 4-H Building: 13th &amp; Russell Ave., WaKeeney, K

<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>This program will provide the trainee with the knowledge and information of tractor safety and farm hazards. Safety training is required by the U.S. Department of Labor for youth ages 14-15 who will be working on a farm for someone other than their parents. However, there are many cases where youth need certification even when working on the "family farm". Certification will be presented to participants who meet all of the following.Attend the entire session, complete all assignments, successfully complete tractor safety exam, safely demonstrate the ability to operate a tractor and all its controls according to safe operating procedures under the supervision of a parent or employer, youth ages 14-15 years (others will receive certification at the time they turn 14). Cost: FREE! Thanks to our sponsor, People's State Bank, for sponsoring the manual rental fee and lunch for all participants! (For those who want to purchase and keep a copy of the manual, there will be a $15 charge.) To take advantage of the free registration, please sign-up by April 21st at one of the following Extension Offices: Decatur County, Ellis County, Gove County, Graham County, Logan County, Norton County, Phillips County, Rooks County, Sheridan County, or Trego County. Trego County 4-H Building: 13th &amp; Russell Ave., WaKeeney, K

CAMPBELL: Tractor & Farm Safety Course – April 30

The plant with the little purple flowers that have been showing up in home lawns is called henbit. If you are not sure this is what you have, check the stems. If they are square rather than round, you have henbit. A plant that also is low growing but has round stems and tiny white flowers is chickweed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both these plants are winter annuals and start to grow in the fall. They spend the winter as small plants and so most people do not pay much attention to them until they start to flower in the spring. Trying to kill either one at this late stage with a herbicide usually is a waste of time and money. Though plants may be burned back, they will rarely be killed. So what should you do? Remember, these are winter annuals that will die as soon as the weather turns hot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Keep the lawn mowed until nature takes its course.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, you can do something next fall that will help the following spring. Henbit and chickweed usually germinate about mid-October. Spraying with 2,4-D, Weed-B-Gon, Weed Free Zone, Weed Out, or Trimec in late October to early November can go a long way toward eliminating these plants as they are small and relatively easy to control. Choose a day that is at least 50 degrees F.&nbsp; These herbicides will work at temperatures below 50 degrees but the weeds are killed at a slower rate.&nbsp; You may also use a preemergent herbicide for lawns in late September as long as have not recently put down grass seed.&nbsp; Spraying with the postemergence herbicides mentioned earlier will also catch dandelions which the preemergent herbicides will miss.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spot treating may be needed in the spring (March) whichever method of control you use but is more likely with the use of preemergent herbicides. Use Weed Free Zone, Speed Zone, Weed Out, Weed-B-Gon, Trimec, or one of the special henbit herbicides early in the spring before they have put on much growth.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The plant with the little purple flowers that have been showing up in home lawns is called henbit. If you are not sure this is what you have, check the stems. If they are square rather than round, you have henbit. A plant that also is low growing but has round stems and tiny white flowers is chickweed.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Both these plants are winter annuals and start to grow in the fall. They spend the winter as small plants and so most people do not pay much attention to them until they start to flower in the spring. Trying to kill either one at this late stage with a herbicide usually is a waste of time and money. Though plants may be burned back, they will rarely be killed. So what should you do? Remember, these are winter annuals that will die as soon as the weather turns hot.&nbsp;&nbsp; Keep the lawn mowed until nature takes its course.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; However, you can do something next fall that will help the following spring. Henbit and chickweed usually germinate about mid-October. Spraying with 2,4-D, Weed-B-Gon, Weed Free Zone, Weed Out, or Trimec in late October to early November can go a long way toward eliminating these plants as they are small and relatively easy to control. Choose a day that is at least 50 degrees F.&nbsp; These herbicides will work at temperatures below 50 degrees but the weeds are killed at a slower rate.&nbsp; You may also use a preemergent herbicide for lawns in late September as long as have not recently put down grass seed.&nbsp; Spraying with the postemergence herbicides mentioned earlier will also catch dandelions which the preemergent herbicides will miss.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Spot treating may be needed in the spring (March) whichever method of control you use but is more likely with the use of preemergent herbicides. Use Weed Free Zone, Speed Zone, Weed Out, Weed-B-Gon, Trimec, or one of the special henbit herbicides early in the spring before they have put on much growth.&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: Controlling henbit 

This past week, I had a neat opportunity to attend the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education awards banquet. In cooperation with members of the K-State Watershed staff, Hays Water Department, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a group of young people dove into a journey last year and that work of establishing a 4-H2O Ambassador program was recognized by KACEE.

Helping youth to find their spark is invigorating and provides opportunities to help make our world better in so many ways. Sparks are skills, talents, and interests that motivate a young person to change or improve themselves and the world around them by giving them a sense of direction and encouraging goal setting!

This program started in late 2020 with four young people from Barton and Ellis Counties who spent two days learning about water treatment, management, and conservation. While increasing their knowledge of all things water, they also honed their presentation skills to prepare for working with the public at a variety of events.

Those initial four did a great job of helping at multiple events at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and in Hays. They have family-friendly and youth-focused learning activities for these events.

In 2022, the first four returned and we added three additional youth to the group. They have been through two days of training and work diligently to improve their presentation skills for events. If you would like for the 4-H2O Ambassadors to speak to your group, contact the Cottonwood Extension District in either the Barton or Ellis County offices, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, or Holly Dickman with the City of Hays. We will open applications in the fall for a new class of Ambassadors and they don’t need to be enrolled in 4-H!

Programs like the 4-H2O Ambassadors are one of my favorite things about working in 4-H! 4-H offers nearly 40 different project areas from Art to Woodworking and each area has the potential to create a spark. Some 4-H members may try a dozen different projects over a few years before finding 3 or 4 that really resonate. Others may find a couple of project areas that they are

passionate about very early and work and learn in that area over eight to ten years.

Is there a young person in your world who is looking for their spark? If so, give me a call!

<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>This past week, I had a neat opportunity to attend the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education awards banquet. In cooperation with members of the K-State Watershed staff, Hays Water Department, and the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, a group of young people dove into a journey last year and that work of establishing a 4-H2O Ambassador program was recognized by KACEE.Helping youth to find their spark is invigorating and provides opportunities to help make our world better in so many ways. Sparks are skills, talents, and interests that motivate a young person to change or improve themselves and the world around them by giving them a sense of direction and encouraging goal setting!This program started in late 2020 with four young people from Barton and Ellis Counties who spent two days learning about water treatment, management, and conservation. While increasing their knowledge of all things water, they also honed their presentation skills to prepare for working with the public at a variety of events.Those initial four did a great job of helping at multiple events at the Kansas Wetlands Education Center and in Hays. They have family-friendly and youth-focused learning activities for these events.In 2022, the first four returned and we added three additional youth to the group. They have been through two days of training and work diligently to improve their presentation skills for events. If you would like for the 4-H2O Ambassadors to speak to your group, contact the Cottonwood Extension District in either the Barton or Ellis County offices, the Kansas Wetlands Education Center, or Holly Dickman with the City of Hays. We will open applications in the fall for a new class of Ambassadors and they don’t need to be enrolled in 4-H!Programs like the 4-H2O Ambassadors are one of my favorite things about working in 4-H! 4-H offers nearly 40 different project areas from Art to Woodworking and each area has the potential to create a spark. Some 4-H members may try a dozen different projects over a few years before finding 3 or 4 that really resonate. Others may find a couple of project areas that they arepassionate about very early and work and learn in that area over eight to ten years.Is there a young person in your world who is looking for their spark? If so, give me a call!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: H2O ambassadors 

It is hard to believe that the first three months of 2022 are coming to a close. Today I want to focus on things that are happening in the Cottonwood District. Recently our Cottonwood Team met with more than twenty of our Program Development Committee members who help guide our work. At our dinner meeting we asked the question “What makes you STOP and consider attending an event/program?” Answers varied but the common theme was that programs should cover relevant topics that help improve a persons’ life in some way. The challenge in our ever-changing world is when to schedule educational events and whether the event will be held in person or available on-line. While we could not solve all the issues in our 2-hour meeting, we all came away with some great ideas of things to consider. In the months ahead look for our team of agents to try some innovative approaches.

Recent “Fermentation Workshops” held in both Great Bend and Hays attracted many participants who were new to Extension. It was fun to share the information from the fact sheet I wrote last year. Participants came away from the hands-on workshop with a quart of cabbage, which after three weeks, will become a tasty jar of sauerkraut. Learning about the health benefits of including a small amount of fermented food in the diet was a bonus.

Other Cottonwood team members have educational programs planned in their respective program areas. I hope you will take a minute to visit our Cottonwood website and follow the link to our monthly newsletter which contains flyers highlighting these opportunities.

Today I also want to bring you up to date on the three Extension Agent positions currently open in the Cottonwood Extension District. The position announcement/application process for the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Hays office will be posted on May 4th. Applications are due by June 1st and the date for interviews has been set for June 28th. The Family Community Wellness position in the Hays office will be announced later in the summer and the District Horticulture position will follow soon after. If you know of anyone who has the qualifications for these agent positions, plus a heart to serve the public, encourage them to apply. We also have a summer intern position in the Hays office open. We are looking for someone who has completed at least two years of college and would like to learn more about a career in Extension. The position description and application process is on our Cottonwood website.

Let me know how our team members in the Cottonwood Extension District, can best serve your needs!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for 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/2019/11/1573141404420.png" alt="written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Donna Krug - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>It is hard to believe that the first three months of 2022 are coming to a close. Today I want to focus on things that are happening in the Cottonwood District. Recently our Cottonwood Team met with more than twenty of our Program Development Committee members who help guide our work. At our dinner meeting we asked the question “What makes you STOP and consider attending an event/program?” Answers varied but the common theme was that programs should cover relevant topics that help improve a persons’ life in some way. The challenge in our ever-changing world is when to schedule educational events and whether the event will be held in person or available on-line. While we could not solve all the issues in our 2-hour meeting, we all came away with some great ideas of things to consider. In the months ahead look for our team of agents to try some innovative approaches.Recent “Fermentation Workshops” held in both Great Bend and Hays attracted many participants who were new to Extension. It was fun to share the information from the fact sheet I wrote last year. Participants came away from the hands-on workshop with a quart of cabbage, which after three weeks, will become a tasty jar of sauerkraut. Learning about the health benefits of including a small amount of fermented food in the diet was a bonus.Other Cottonwood team members have educational programs planned in their respective program areas. I hope you will take a minute to visit our Cottonwood website and follow the link to our monthly newsletter which contains flyers highlighting these opportunities.Today I also want to bring you up to date on the three Extension Agent positions currently open in the Cottonwood Extension District. The position announcement/application process for the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Hays office will be posted on May 4th. Applications are due by June 1st and the date for interviews has been set for June 28th. The Family Community Wellness position in the Hays office will be announced later in the summer and the District Horticulture position will follow soon after. If you know of anyone who has the qualifications for these agent positions, plus a heart to serve the public, encourage them to apply. We also have a summer intern position in the Hays office open. We are looking for someone who has completed at least two years of college and would like to learn more about a career in Extension. The position description and application process is on our Cottonwood website.Let me know how our team members in the Cottonwood Extension District, can best serve your needs!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for 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: Cottonwood Extension District update

Pasture management on the High Plains can be challenging for a lot of reasons. Adding wildfires into this mix further complicates your decisions. The fires that affected Russell, Ellis, Osborne and Rooks counties has made life difficult for many in this area and as the growing season approaches, producers may have questions that need answered.

On April 19, at the K-State Research Center in Hays, KS at 4 p.m., K-State Research and Extension will be hosting the program “Pasture Management Before and After a Wildfire.” Walt Fick, Rangeland Specialist will be discussing Prescribed Burns, and also Management Following Wildfire. Keith Harmoney, Range Scientist will discuss the effects of Recent and Historical Wildfires on Pasture Productivity and Plant Populations.

The K-State Mesonet will also be at the Hays Research Center to talk about the weather outlook for this coming season, and Clint Laflin will talk about his experiences in the 4-County Fire and give an overview to producers for them to determine what the current fire risks are in their operation and what can they do to prepare for a wildfire. The evening will finish with a meal and a Town Hall for producers to talk and have their questions answered.

You can RSVP for the meal by calling the Hays office of the Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430 or emailing tam3@ksu.edu. This program is being sponsored by Hi Plains Farm Credit.

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>Pasture management on the High Plains can be challenging for a lot of reasons. Adding wildfires into this mix further complicates your decisions. The fires that affected Russell, Ellis, Osborne and Rooks counties has made life difficult for many in this area and as the growing season approaches, producers may have questions that need answered.On April 19, at the K-State Research Center in Hays, KS at 4 p.m., K-State Research and Extension will be hosting the program “Pasture Management Before and After a Wildfire.” Walt Fick, Rangeland Specialist will be discussing Prescribed Burns, and also Management Following Wildfire. Keith Harmoney, Range Scientist will discuss the effects of Recent and Historical Wildfires on Pasture Productivity and Plant Populations.The K-State Mesonet will also be at the Hays Research Center to talk about the weather outlook for this coming season, and Clint Laflin will talk about his experiences in the 4-County Fire and give an overview to producers for them to determine what the current fire risks are in their operation and what can they do to prepare for a wildfire. The evening will finish with a meal and a Town Hall for producers to talk and have their questions answered.You can RSVP for the meal by calling the Hays office of the Cottonwood Extension District at 785-628-9430 or emailing tam3@ksu.edu. This program is being sponsored by Hi Plains Farm Credit.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: Wildfire program

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.

<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.

<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!

<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.