K-State Research and Extension is pleased to announce they will begin offering a series of prenatal education sessions in the Ellis County area beginning in February 2025. These sessions, available free-of-charge to all area families regardless of income or other social determinants, are being provided thanks to a partnership between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Family Health, March of Dimes, HaysMed, First Care Clinic, High Plains Mental Health, Early Childhood Connections, Hays Public Library, Feeding Hays, and Ellis County Emergency Medical Services. Utilizing the March of Dimes’ Becoming a Mom®/Comenzando bien® curriculum, expectant participants and their support person(s) will learn about topics related to physical and emotional health during pregnancy, as well as receive in-depth education surrounding labor and delivery, infant feeding, infant care, safe sleep, and other hot button parenting issues. Information about area resources and additional parenting support systems in the community will also be provided.

I have been wanting to bring the program to Ellis County for quite some time and everything has finally come together to begin. I have worked with the Barton County Health Department for over a year helping teach their infant feeding class for Becoming a Mom and have seen first-hand the value in the program. I’m extremely excited about the amazing instructors and community partners that have come together to make Becoming a Mom a reality here in Ellis County. For a long time, I have wanted families to have a chance to come together to get to know other parents and offer support to one another. We had talked about some type of mentorship program for parents at our local Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition meeting and felt like Becoming a Mom classes were an opportunity for parents to do this. My other goal for the program is to bring resources to parents and have community partners that work with expectant parents or young families at each meeting. I’m hoping by providing the opportunity for parents to get to know the people that deliver these services in our community, that it is easier for them to reach out when they need those services.

Becoming a Mom will hopefully lead to improved pregnancy and birth outcomes for moms and babies in the Ellis county area, just as they have across many locations in Kansas. Since 2010, evaluation efforts for the Becoming a Mom® program according to the Kansas Perinatal Community Collaborative model, have been overwhelmingly positive. Outcomes have shown significant improvement in rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, breastfeeding initiation, and lower cesarean rates.

All area pregnant women are encouraged to attend, regardless of past experience with pregnancy or parenting. Incentives for participation will be provided thanks to grants made available through Midwest

Energy and Heartland Community Foundation. Mothers, fathers, and support people are invited to attend each class. You can choose which classes you want to attend but you earn bigger incentives (portable crib or infant playmat) for attending 4 out of the 6 classes. If you are from outside of Ellis County and are interested in attending, please contact Monique for availability. Limited childcare will be available, and we will also have a free meal provided by Feeding Hays. To obtain a schedule of class dates or to register for sessions, please contact Monique at Cottonwood Extension District by emailing/calling at moniquek@ksu.edu or 785-628-9430. You can also find Ellis County Becoming a Mom program on the Web at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/becoming-a-mom/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood.

Partipicants in Barton County can call the Barton County Health Department at 620-793-1902 to inquire about classes. A new series of classes will begin in April 2025. If you are interested in classes that began in January, reach out to see which classes are still available.

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

K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension is pleased to announce they will begin offering a series of prenatal education sessions in the Ellis County area beginning in February 2025. These sessions, available free-of-charge to all area families regardless of income or other social determinants, are being provided thanks to a partnership between the Kansas Department of Health and Environment Bureau of Family Health, March of Dimes, HaysMed, First Care Clinic, High Plains Mental Health, Early Childhood Connections, Hays Public Library, Feeding Hays, and Ellis County Emergency Medical Services. Utilizing the March of Dimes’ Becoming a Mom®/Comenzando bien® curriculum, expectant participants and their support person(s) will learn about topics related to physical and emotional health during pregnancy, as well as receive in-depth education surrounding labor and delivery, infant feeding, infant care, safe sleep, and other hot button parenting issues. Information about area resources and additional parenting support systems in the community will also be provided.I have been wanting to bring the program to Ellis County for quite some time and everything has finally come together to begin. I have worked with the Barton County Health Department for over a year helping teach their infant feeding class for Becoming a Mom and have seen first-hand the value in the program. I’m extremely excited about the amazing instructors and community partners that have come together to make Becoming a Mom a reality here in Ellis County. For a long time, I have wanted families to have a chance to come together to get to know other parents and offer support to one another. We had talked about some type of mentorship program for parents at our local Ellis County Breastfeeding Coalition meeting and felt like Becoming a Mom classes were an opportunity for parents to do this. My other goal for the program is to bring resources to parents and have community partners that work with expectant parents or young families at each meeting. I’m hoping by providing the opportunity for parents to get to know the people that deliver these services in our community, that it is easier for them to reach out when they need those services.Becoming a Mom will hopefully lead to improved pregnancy and birth outcomes for moms and babies in the Ellis county area, just as they have across many locations in Kansas. Since 2010, evaluation efforts for the Becoming a Mom® program according to the Kansas Perinatal Community Collaborative model, have been overwhelmingly positive. Outcomes have shown significant improvement in rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, breastfeeding initiation, and lower cesarean rates.All area pregnant women are encouraged to attend, regardless of past experience with pregnancy or parenting. Incentives for participation will be provided thanks to grants made available through MidwestEnergy and Heartland Community Foundation. Mothers, fathers, and support people are invited to attend each class. You can choose which classes you want to attend but you earn bigger incentives (portable crib or infant playmat) for attending 4 out of the 6 classes. If you are from outside of Ellis County and are interested in attending, please contact Monique for availability. Limited childcare will be available, and we will also have a free meal provided by Feeding Hays. To obtain a schedule of class dates or to register for sessions, please contact Monique at Cottonwood Extension District by emailing/calling at moniquek@ksu.edu or 785-628-9430. You can also find Ellis County Becoming a Mom program on the Web at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/becoming-a-mom/ and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood.Partipicants in Barton County can call the Barton County Health Department at 620-793-1902 to inquire about classes. A new series of classes will begin in April 2025. If you are interested in classes that began in January, reach out to see which classes are still available.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.eduK-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Becoming a mom prenatal education classes

There always seems to be a new diet on the market. One to lower blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, or help you lose “x” amount of weight.

While some of these eating styles may be good for health, others may be unsustainable trends. So, how do you decipher the two?

There are many factors to consider when choosing an eating plan that is right for you. According to Harvard Health, ask yourself these questions before changing your nutritional habits:

· What goals are most important? Consider what you want to achieve. Is it weight loss, improved health, preventative medicine, or something else?

· What health problems do you have? One diet may improve symptoms of a specific disease while another may exacerbate it.

· Which foods do you like best? Your cultural preferences strongly influence whether you stick with a specific diet or not.

No matter the eating plan you choose, one with a variety of colors, fruits, and vegetables is likely to boost your well-being. Similarly, the Portfolio Diet is a blend of diets that improve health such as the Mediterranean Diet and DASH eating plan. This eating style is full of diverse foods and focuses on what you can add to your menu. Therefore, the diet is a “portfolio” of foods to choose from. This flexible approach is proven to lower cholesterol, reduce stroke risk, lower inflammation, and improve overall heart health.

So, what foods are included in the Portfolio Diet?

· High-fiber foods like whole grains, berries, apples, oats, and eggplant. These help to clear LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and keep the digestive system functioning properly.

· Unsaturated fats like olive oil, avocados, walnuts, and pecans. Using these heart-healthy fats reduces inflammation and improves vascular health.

· Finally, plant-based proteins like beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and soy play a valuable role in this eating style due to their fiber content and lack of saturated fats.

Making room for lots of fiber, unsaturated fat, and plant-based protein can help you reduce the amount of refined and processed products that can have the opposite effect on health.

However, the Portfolio Diet is not an “all or nothing” approach. The goal is to introduce one food to your diet, make it routine, and build from there.

Dr. David Jenkins, creator of the Portfolio Diet puts it best, “It’s for real people, in the real world.” I encourage you to be adventurous. Add new, healthy ingredients to your menu every month. This can make a big difference over time because for any eating plan, consistency, not perfection, is key.

Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>There always seems to be a new diet on the market. One to lower blood sugar, reduce cholesterol, or help you lose “x” amount of weight.While some of these eating styles may be good for health, others may be unsustainable trends. So, how do you decipher the two?There are many factors to consider when choosing an eating plan that is right for you. According to Harvard Health, ask yourself these questions before changing your nutritional habits:· What goals are most important? Consider what you want to achieve. Is it weight loss, improved health, preventative medicine, or something else?· What health problems do you have? One diet may improve symptoms of a specific disease while another may exacerbate it.· Which foods do you like best? Your cultural preferences strongly influence whether you stick with a specific diet or not.No matter the eating plan you choose, one with a variety of colors, fruits, and vegetables is likely to boost your well-being. Similarly, the Portfolio Diet is a blend of diets that improve health such as the Mediterranean Diet and DASH eating plan. This eating style is full of diverse foods and focuses on what you can add to your menu. Therefore, the diet is a “portfolio” of foods to choose from. This flexible approach is proven to lower cholesterol, reduce stroke risk, lower inflammation, and improve overall heart health.So, what foods are included in the Portfolio Diet?· High-fiber foods like whole grains, berries, apples, oats, and eggplant. These help to clear LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and keep the digestive system functioning properly.· Unsaturated fats like olive oil, avocados, walnuts, and pecans. Using these heart-healthy fats reduces inflammation and improves vascular health.· Finally, plant-based proteins like beans, peas, nuts, seeds, and soy play a valuable role in this eating style due to their fiber content and lack of saturated fats.Making room for lots of fiber, unsaturated fat, and plant-based protein can help you reduce the amount of refined and processed products that can have the opposite effect on health.However, the Portfolio Diet is not an “all or nothing” approach. The goal is to introduce one food to your diet, make it routine, and build from there.Dr. David Jenkins, creator of the Portfolio Diet puts it best, “It’s for real people, in the real world.” I encourage you to be adventurous. Add new, healthy ingredients to your menu every month. This can make a big difference over time because for any eating plan, consistency, not perfection, is key.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: The Portfolio Diet

K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District along with Barton County Conservation District and NRCS will host a Rangeland Brush Management Identification and Control meeting on Jan. 29. This program will be held at the Hoisington Activity Center at 1200 Susank Road in Hoisington from 5:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m.&nbsp;

Keith Harmoney, KSRE Range Scientist and Jess Crockford from the Smokey Hills Prescribed Burn Association with be talking about how to identify invasive plants in your rangeland and how to control them. There will also be discussion about the Kansas NRCS Great Plains Grassland Initiative and a proposed Golden Belt Prescribed Fire Association.

There is no cost to attend this meeting, but an RSVP to 620-793-1910 is appreciated for the meal.

For more information, contact Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or Veronica Coons at 620-793-3346 ext. 303.

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 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District along with Barton County Conservation District and NRCS will host a Rangeland Brush Management Identification and Control meeting on Jan. 29. This program will be held at the Hoisington Activity Center at 1200 Susank Road in Hoisington from 5:30 p.m. -8:30 p.m.&nbsp;Keith Harmoney, KSRE Range Scientist and Jess Crockford from the Smokey Hills Prescribed Burn Association with be talking about how to identify invasive plants in your rangeland and how to control them. There will also be discussion about the Kansas NRCS Great Plains Grassland Initiative and a proposed Golden Belt Prescribed Fire Association.There is no cost to attend this meeting, but an RSVP to 620-793-1910 is appreciated for the meal.For more information, contact Alicia Boor at 620-793-1910 or Veronica Coons at 620-793-3346 ext. 303.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 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Rangeland Brush Management program to be held in Hoisington

With fertilizer one of the most expensive components of your cropping system, it is increasingly important for producers to properly manage their agricultural inputs. To address the topic of fertility management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs during the month of January 2025. These schools have been designed to help producers understand the fertilizer soil relationships to achieve a greater return from an investment in fertilizer especially in this farm environment.

January 28 – Russell – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – 4-H Building

January 29 – Osborne – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – United Christian Church

January 29 – Rush Center – 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Rush Center Township Hall

January 30 – Sharon Springs – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (MT) – Community Activity Building

The schools will be presented by Dr. Dave Franzen, North Dakota retired agronomist and Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, KSU Fertility specialist along with local District Extension Agents. Topics will include research findings of Soil biological products, New K-State Fertility Recommendations with emphasis on Application Methods, Soil sampling tips and a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you! 2.5 CCA credits have been applied for.

Lunch will be provided following the programs thanks to our generous sponsors. There is no cost for the schools, however, pre-registration is requested by Friday, January 24 for all schools either online, https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cTszCQUOMzQkjZA, or at your local Extension office. A minimum of 10 pre-registered producers are needed to hold each of the schools. Hope to see you there!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>With fertilizer one of the most expensive components of your cropping system, it is increasingly important for producers to properly manage their agricultural inputs. To address the topic of fertility management, K-State Research and Extension, has scheduled four regional programs during the month of January 2025. These schools have been designed to help producers understand the fertilizer soil relationships to achieve a greater return from an investment in fertilizer especially in this farm environment.The meetings schedule is the following:January 28 – Russell – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – 4-H BuildingJanuary 29 – Osborne – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – United Christian ChurchJanuary 29 – Rush Center – 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. – Rush Center Township HallJanuary 30 – Sharon Springs – 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. (MT) – Community Activity BuildingThe schools will be presented by Dr. Dave Franzen, North Dakota retired agronomist and Dr. Dorivar Ruiz Diaz, KSU Fertility specialist along with local District Extension Agents. Topics will include research findings of Soil biological products, New K-State Fertility Recommendations with emphasis on Application Methods, Soil sampling tips and a question and answer session. So be sure and bring all your questions with you! 2.5 CCA credits have been applied for.Lunch will be provided following the programs thanks to our generous sponsors. There is no cost for the schools, however, pre-registration is requested by Friday, January 24 for all schools either online, https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_cTszCQUOMzQkjZA, or at your local Extension office. A minimum of 10 pre-registered producers are needed to hold each of the schools. Hope to see you there!

CAMPBELL: Soil fertility schools, pre-registration by Friday

The season for snow and ice is here, and with the change in weather, you may be concerned about falling. However, slippery conditions are only one factor contributing to fall risk. Other elements like balance, strength, and coordination can also play a part.

As you know, balance keeps you stable and on your feet. Your eyes, nervous system, and inner ears communicate to keep you upright. Intricate stabilizing muscles and core strength also work together for good balance.

So, what can you do to reduce your risk of falling?

Key practices for good balance include strength and flexibility training. These exercises work your muscles and engage the body’s full balance network, including the nervous system, vision, and inner ears. Keeping these systems in regular communication will help improve balance.

For example, strength training with dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight can increase muscle mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Resistance exercises help build stabilizing muscles and increase movement control.

Unilateral movements also contribute to better balance by increasing the time spent on a single side of the body. These exercises focus on practicing balance and improving coordination while strengthening the body. Including unilateral movements such as walking, climbing stairs, riding a bike, or tai chi can help.

Flexibility training is another key component to improve posture and increase range of motion. When the body is tight, everyday tasks may seem difficult to complete. Bending over to tie shoes or reaching high into a cabinet can be challenging. However, yoga and daily stretching are two ways to work on flexibility that contribute to better balance.

The fear of falling is a legitimate concern for many older adults. In the United States, every 11 seconds a senior is treated in the emergency room due to a fall. These injuries can result in decreased mobility and loss of independence.

Improving balance includes regular strength and flexibility training. Incorporating these habits into your routine at least twice a week can help. Once you start, make it a habit because balance is a skill that requires practice. The good news is that it’s never too late to start!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The season for snow and ice is here, and with the change in weather, you may be concerned about falling. However, slippery conditions are only one factor contributing to fall risk. Other elements like balance, strength, and coordination can also play a part.As you know, balance keeps you stable and on your feet. Your eyes, nervous system, and inner ears communicate to keep you upright. Intricate stabilizing muscles and core strength also work together for good balance.So, what can you do to reduce your risk of falling?Key practices for good balance include strength and flexibility training. These exercises work your muscles and engage the body’s full balance network, including the nervous system, vision, and inner ears. Keeping these systems in regular communication will help improve balance.For example, strength training with dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight can increase muscle mass and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Resistance exercises help build stabilizing muscles and increase movement control.Unilateral movements also contribute to better balance by increasing the time spent on a single side of the body. These exercises focus on practicing balance and improving coordination while strengthening the body. Including unilateral movements such as walking, climbing stairs, riding a bike, or tai chi can help.Flexibility training is another key component to improve posture and increase range of motion. When the body is tight, everyday tasks may seem difficult to complete. Bending over to tie shoes or reaching high into a cabinet can be challenging. However, yoga and daily stretching are two ways to work on flexibility that contribute to better balance.The fear of falling is a legitimate concern for many older adults. In the United States, every 11 seconds a senior is treated in the emergency room due to a fall. These injuries can result in decreased mobility and loss of independence.Improving balance includes regular strength and flexibility training. Incorporating these habits into your routine at least twice a week can help. Once you start, make it a habit because balance is a skill that requires practice. The good news is that it’s never too late to start!Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: Practice good balance

The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3zrM2Ss. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.

BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Jan. 21 9 a.m. Until Close

I. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 13, 2025, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.

II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.

III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Champ Software – KS Nightingale Notes Subscription: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Karen Winkelman, Health Director, will provide details. In December, 2017, the Commission approved the purchase of Nightingale Notes Electronic Health Records. The Health Department has received a billing of $30,715.00 from Champ Software for the 2025 - 2026 subscription of 21 named licenses.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2025-05: 2025 Tax Sale: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will provide details. This Resolution authorizes certain tracts of real estate be sold for back taxes. This money is then distributed to the various taxing entities in the County. The Resolution also authorizes abstract work be performed in preparation for the tax sale.

&nbsp; &nbsp;C. 2025 TAX SALE: First American Title Company: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Pam Curtis, First American Title Company, will provide details. Mr. Jordan contacted First American Title Company reference abstracting services for the 2025 Tax Sale. First American Title Company is willing to provide the needed services at $80.00 per parcel.

&nbsp; &nbsp;D. LEGISLATIVE DISCUSSION: Treasurer’s Office – Motor Vehicle Fee Bill: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Jordan will provide details. For several years, the Kansas County Treasurers Association has sponsored a legislative bill that would increase fees dedicated to Counties for the provision of motor vehicle services on behalf of the State. Currently, monies collected do not cover operational costs.

&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Tricia Schlessiger will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.

IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.

&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Kansas Legislative Policy Group Winter meeting will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Hotel Topeka at City Center, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard Topeka, Kansas, from noon until 5:00 p.m. County officials may attend.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Kansas Association of Counties is co-hosting Local Government Day members, in partnership with the League of Kansas Municipalities, Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The event will be held from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Kansas Association of Counties Office, 715 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas. The event will be moved at 4:00 p.m. to The Beacon, 420 SW 9th Street, Topeka, Kansas. County officials may attend.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Barton County Conservation District Annual Meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, January 23, 2025. The meeting will be held at the Hoisington Columbus Club, 114 N Main, Hoisington, Kansas.

&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Program Update – Jay Harris, District Director, Cottonwood Extension Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Departmental Update – Sean Kelly, Emergency Management Director.

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.

THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for January 23, 2025.

V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 28, 2025.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1720201812175.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>The Commission meeting will be live-streamed through Microsoft Teams. Citizens may view the meeting through their own sign in or by signing in “anonymously”. Please follow this link: https://bit.ly/3zrM2Ss. If you wish to participate in the discussion of any item, please call (620) 793-1800 for instructions.BOARD OF BARTON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Agenda Meeting Jan. 21 9 a.m. Until CloseI. OPENING BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Call Meeting to Order. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. Consider Approval of the Agenda. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. Consider the minutes of the January 13, 2025, Regular Meeting. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. Any citizen wishing to make statements during the discussion of any item must first be recognized by the Commission Chair. After being recognized, that person should state their name and the name of any organization represented. Statements should be limited to five minutes. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. Please silence all phones and electronic devices. Recording the meeting is allowed and the Commission requests that anyone using special recording equipment be seated in the back row to avoid creating a distraction during the meeting.II. OLD BUSINESS - Items tabled, or scheduled, from previous Commission Meetings, will be heard at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;-There is no Old Business at this time.III. NEW BUSINESS - All new business to be considered by the Commission will be heard at this time.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. HEALTH DEPARTMENT: Champ Software – KS Nightingale Notes Subscription: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Karen Winkelman, Health Director, will provide details. In December, 2017, the Commission approved the purchase of Nightingale Notes Electronic Health Records. The Health Department has received a billing of $30,715.00 from Champ Software for the 2025 - 2026 subscription of 21 named licenses.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. RESOLUTION 2025-05: 2025 Tax Sale: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Jim Jordan, County Treasurer, will provide details. This Resolution authorizes certain tracts of real estate be sold for back taxes. This money is then distributed to the various taxing entities in the County. The Resolution also authorizes abstract work be performed in preparation for the tax sale.&nbsp; &nbsp;C. 2025 TAX SALE: First American Title Company: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Pam Curtis, First American Title Company, will provide details. Mr. Jordan contacted First American Title Company reference abstracting services for the 2025 Tax Sale. First American Title Company is willing to provide the needed services at $80.00 per parcel.&nbsp; &nbsp;D. LEGISLATIVE DISCUSSION: Treasurer’s Office – Motor Vehicle Fee Bill: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Mr. Jordan will provide details. For several years, the Kansas County Treasurers Association has sponsored a legislative bill that would increase fees dedicated to Counties for the provision of motor vehicle services on behalf of the State. Currently, monies collected do not cover operational costs.&nbsp; &nbsp;E. EXECUTIVE SESSION: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Chairman Tricia Schlessiger will present. Any Commissioner may make a motion for the board to recess to executive session at this time as allowed by K.S.A. 75-4319. Any motion must contain the justification for the executive session, the subject matter to be discussed, any individuals in addition to the board who will attend the executive session and the time at which the regular session shall resume.IV. ENDING BUSINESS – After new items are heard by the Commission, the following items, including announcements, will be heard.&nbsp; &nbsp;A. ANNOUNCEMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Following the close of the Agenda Meeting, the Commission will consider the authorization of personnel changes for classified positions, sign any documentation approved during the agenda meeting or sign any other documentation required for regular County business. Similar action may take place throughout the day.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Kansas Legislative Policy Group Winter meeting will be held Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at the Hotel Topeka at City Center, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard Topeka, Kansas, from noon until 5:00 p.m. County officials may attend.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -The Kansas Association of Counties is co-hosting Local Government Day members, in partnership with the League of Kansas Municipalities, Wednesday, January 22, 2025. The event will be held from 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at the Kansas Association of Counties Office, 715 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas. The event will be moved at 4:00 p.m. to The Beacon, 420 SW 9th Street, Topeka, Kansas. County officials may attend.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -County officials have been invited to attend the Barton County Conservation District Annual Meeting beginning at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, January 23, 2025. The meeting will be held at the Hoisington Columbus Club, 114 N Main, Hoisington, Kansas.&nbsp; &nbsp;B. APPOINTMENTS: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; -Although subject to change, the following appointments have been scheduled:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9:45 a.m. or following the close of the Agenda Meeting – Financial Update – Matt Patzner, Administrator.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:15 a.m. – Program Update – Marissa Woodmansee, Juvenile Services Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;10:45 a.m. – Program Update – Jay Harris, District Director, Cottonwood Extension Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:00 a.m. – Departmental Update – Sean Kelly, Emergency Management Director.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;11:15 a.m. – Regular Business Discussion – Matt Patzner, County Administrator.THE COUNTY EDITION, KVGB-AM – Thursdays at 11:05 a.m. Members of the Health Department are scheduled for January 23, 2025.V. OTHER BUSINESS: &nbsp; &nbsp;A. Discussion Items. &nbsp; &nbsp;B. Citizens or organizations may present requests or proposals for initial consideration at this time. &nbsp; &nbsp;C. The Commissioners are available to the Public on Tuesdays during regular business hours. &nbsp; &nbsp;D. One or more Commissioners may be present in the Commission Chambers conducting county business throughout the day on Tuesdays. &nbsp; &nbsp;E. The Commissioners may, individually, schedule personal appointments related to County business at their discretion. &nbsp; &nbsp;F. The next Regular Meeting will be at 9:00 a.m., Tuesday, January 28, 2025.VI. ADJOURN

Barton County Commission meeting agenda (1/21)

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

With wildfires dominating the national news, the timing is right for a brush management workshop hosted by the Barton County Conservation District and K-State Research and Extension - Cottonwood District. Conservation District Manager Veronica Coons said the workshop will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 29 at the Hoisington Activity Center.

"We're going to be talking about managing brush and invasives on your pastures," she said. "We're going to have a specialist from K-State Extension talking to us about that. We're also going to be bringing in Jess Crockford for the Smoky Hills Prescribed Burn Association to talk about brush management techniques that include fire."

Coons said brush management is becoming a bigger and bigger issue in Kansas, especially as it pertains to conserving water.

"A lot of the brush includes invasive eastern red cedars that have gotten out of windbreaks and are invading the pasture areas," she said. "They actually take up a lot of water. If they're allowed to grow, they can create an awful lot of fuel in case there's a wildfire."

The workshop will also include a discussion about the proposed Golden Belt Prescribed Fire Association. The event is free and includes a meal. Call (620) 793-1910 by Monday, Jan. 27 to reserve a spot.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1737050259530.jpeg" alt="From the Smoky Hills Prescribed Burn Association" />
 <figcaption>From the Smoky Hills Prescribed Burn Association</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostWith wildfires dominating the national news, the timing is right for a brush management workshop hosted by the Barton County Conservation District and K-State Research and Extension - Cottonwood District. Conservation District Manager Veronica Coons said the workshop will run from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 29 at the Hoisington Activity Center."We're going to be talking about managing brush and invasives on your pastures," she said. "We're going to have a specialist from K-State Extension talking to us about that. We're also going to be bringing in Jess Crockford for the Smoky Hills Prescribed Burn Association to talk about brush management techniques that include fire."Coons said brush management is becoming a bigger and bigger issue in Kansas, especially as it pertains to conserving water."A lot of the brush includes invasive eastern red cedars that have gotten out of windbreaks and are invading the pasture areas," she said. "They actually take up a lot of water. If they're allowed to grow, they can create an awful lot of fuel in case there's a wildfire."The workshop will also include a discussion about the proposed Golden Belt Prescribed Fire Association. The event is free and includes a meal. Call (620) 793-1910 by Monday, Jan. 27 to reserve a spot.

Brush management workshop scheduled for Hoisington on Jan. 29

One of my favorite school partnerships kicked off last week! This is my fourth year to present during USD 428’s GBReads and I look forward to these days!

I love having the opportunity to share a little bit about 4-H and the 45 project areas offered to youth across our county. This year’s book, “Dog Days” by Karen English, offers a great opportunity to talk about the 4-H dog project!

In Kansas, the 4-H Dog Project is active statewide with an annual conference, local and regional shows, and the Dog Show at the Kansas State Fair. Young dog owners spend many hours bonding and training their dog beginning with on-leash obedience before advancing to off-leash obedience and agility. While I and my own dog would need a lot of practice to keep up with the 4-H members, I enjoy watching the partnership between youth and dog develop.

I love reading so anything that lets me combine one of my favorite animals with reading is a win for me! The elementary school librarians put in many hours to select the book for the year, coordinate fun and engaging activities, and line up related speakers. Encourage your kids to read, ask questions about what they are reading, and set an example of reading with, and in front of, them.

By the way, Reading is a 4-H project area also! Picture books, chapter books, comic books and graphic novels are all great examples of how we can put our reading skills into practice. Everyone reads at a different level and has different interests; I love cozy mysteries and cookbooks. My husband isn’t a big reader but prefers a short Western or sports story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Dog Days” in preparation for GBReads and can’t wait to share some information and activities from the 4-H Dog Project with the students at all 5 elementary schools!

Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.

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

Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668177490614.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>One of my favorite school partnerships kicked off last week! This is my fourth year to present during USD 428’s GBReads and I look forward to these days!I love having the opportunity to share a little bit about 4-H and the 45 project areas offered to youth across our county. This year’s book, “Dog Days” by Karen English, offers a great opportunity to talk about the 4-H dog project!In Kansas, the 4-H Dog Project is active statewide with an annual conference, local and regional shows, and the Dog Show at the Kansas State Fair. Young dog owners spend many hours bonding and training their dog beginning with on-leash obedience before advancing to off-leash obedience and agility. While I and my own dog would need a lot of practice to keep up with the 4-H members, I enjoy watching the partnership between youth and dog develop.I love reading so anything that lets me combine one of my favorite animals with reading is a win for me! The elementary school librarians put in many hours to select the book for the year, coordinate fun and engaging activities, and line up related speakers. Encourage your kids to read, ask questions about what they are reading, and set an example of reading with, and in front of, them.By the way, Reading is a 4-H project area also! Picture books, chapter books, comic books and graphic novels are all great examples of how we can put our reading skills into practice. Everyone reads at a different level and has different interests; I love cozy mysteries and cookbooks. My husband isn’t a big reader but prefers a short Western or sports story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading “Dog Days” in preparation for GBReads and can’t wait to share some information and activities from the 4-H Dog Project with the students at all 5 elementary schools!Keep learning. Keep showing grace and kindness.Michelle Beran is the 4-H Youth Development Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District. For more information on this article or other 4-H Youth Development resources, email Michelle at mberan@ksu.edu or call Cottonwood Extension District – Barton Office at 620-793-1910.Kansas State University is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. If you have special requirements due to a physical, vision, or hearing disability.

BERAN: Great Bend Reads and 4-H

The Barton County Conservation District (BCCD) will be holding its annual meeting at the Hoisington Columbus Club on Thursday, Jan. 23. BCCD Manager Veronica Coons said this year's guest speaker will be beekeeper Greg Swob.

"He's going to be talking about the forgotten farmer, beekeeping in America," Coons said. "That's going to be pretty cool. We're going to be doing our Barton County Banker's Association Conservation Awards. We have three winners this year."

Brian Bitter will be presented the soil conservation award, Terry Reif will be presented the established windbreak award, and Lynn Dougherty will be presented the wildlife award for her pollinator plantings.

BCCD's annual meeting is free to attend for any Barton County resident interested in conservation. This year's meal will be catered by Hoisington's JK Catering &amp; BBQ.

"We just ask that people RSVP directly to the Barton County Conservation District office," said Coons. "Our phone number is (620) 792-3346, ext. 303. They need to do that by Jan. 20 so we have a headcount for the meal."

On Jan. 29, BCCD and Cottonwood Extension District will host a brush management workshop from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hoisington Activity Center. That event will also include a meal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/5/1620306273203.jpeg" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostThe Barton County Conservation District (BCCD) will be holding its annual meeting at the Hoisington Columbus Club on Thursday, Jan. 23. BCCD Manager Veronica Coons said this year's guest speaker will be beekeeper Greg Swob."He's going to be talking about the forgotten farmer, beekeeping in America," Coons said. "That's going to be pretty cool. We're going to be doing our Barton County Banker's Association Conservation Awards. We have three winners this year."Brian Bitter will be presented the soil conservation award, Terry Reif will be presented the established windbreak award, and Lynn Dougherty will be presented the wildlife award for her pollinator plantings.BCCD's annual meeting is free to attend for any Barton County resident interested in conservation. This year's meal will be catered by Hoisington's JK Catering &amp; BBQ."We just ask that people RSVP directly to the Barton County Conservation District office," said Coons. "Our phone number is (620) 792-3346, ext. 303. They need to do that by Jan. 20 so we have a headcount for the meal."On Jan. 29, BCCD and Cottonwood Extension District will host a brush management workshop from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at the Hoisington Activity Center. That event will also include a meal.

Barton County Conservation District's annual meeting set for Jan. 23

Kansas Farm Management Association (KFMA) a part of Kansas State University’s Agriculture Economics department will host Agricultural Payroll for Producers seminar January 22nd at the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and January 23rd at the Ellis County Extension Office in Hays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

One of the hardest parts about owning a small business is the rules and laws of getting your employees paid. This workshop is perfect for ag businesses with a few employees or farm hands to understand the details of payroll. While geared towards ag businesses, this workshop could be useful to nearly any small business just getting started. The following topics will be covered:

Cost is $40 to attend. Please pre-register by contacting Chelsea Plummer at KFMA for additional information or to register. Contact Chelsea Plummer at (316) 393-1830 or ecplummer@ksu.edu. Payment can be made via cash or check at the door. Lunch is included. All participants will receive a copy of the KFMA Payroll Manual. Visit agmanager.info/events for more info and event flyers.

You are also welcome to contact either Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend at 620-793-1910 or Hays 785-628-9430.

Two other programs that might be of interest to agricultural producers are both being held on Wednesday, January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Keeping Grass Grass - Rangeland Brush Management: Identification and Control at Hoisington Activity Center, 1200 Susank Rd. Topics covered will be targeting control options of invasive plants and discussion of a proposed Prescribed Fire Association. A complimentary meal will be provided, RSVP is appreciated by calling Cottonwood District Office in Great Bend at 620-793-1910.

The next program on Wednesday, January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. is a Soil Fertility School being held in Rush Center at Township Hall, 220 Union St. Topics of discussion will be new fertility recommendations from K-State Research &amp; Extension Agronomy with emphasis on application methods, fertilizer additives and soil biologicals and soil sampling. No cost to attend registration is requested by Friday, January 24th. Call or email Lacey Noterman 866-755-1654, lnote@ksu.edu or Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, scampbel@ksu.edu

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/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Farm Management Association (KFMA) a part of Kansas State University’s Agriculture Economics department will host Agricultural Payroll for Producers seminar January 22nd at the United Wireless Arena in Dodge City from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and January 23rd at the Ellis County Extension Office in Hays from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.One of the hardest parts about owning a small business is the rules and laws of getting your employees paid. This workshop is perfect for ag businesses with a few employees or farm hands to understand the details of payroll. While geared towards ag businesses, this workshop could be useful to nearly any small business just getting started. The following topics will be covered:· Employee Classification· Labor Laws· Payroll Computation· Payroll Deposits· Employee BenefitsCost is $40 to attend. Please pre-register by contacting Chelsea Plummer at KFMA for additional information or to register. Contact Chelsea Plummer at (316) 393-1830 or ecplummer@ksu.edu. Payment can be made via cash or check at the door. Lunch is included. All participants will receive a copy of the KFMA Payroll Manual. Visit agmanager.info/events for more info and event flyers.You are also welcome to contact either Cottonwood Extension Office in Great Bend at 620-793-1910 or Hays 785-628-9430.Two other programs that might be of interest to agricultural producers are both being held on Wednesday, January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Keeping Grass Grass - Rangeland Brush Management: Identification and Control at Hoisington Activity Center, 1200 Susank Rd. Topics covered will be targeting control options of invasive plants and discussion of a proposed Prescribed Fire Association. A complimentary meal will be provided, RSVP is appreciated by calling Cottonwood District Office in Great Bend at 620-793-1910.The next program on Wednesday, January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. is a Soil Fertility School being held in Rush Center at Township Hall, 220 Union St. Topics of discussion will be new fertility recommendations from K-State Research &amp; Extension Agronomy with emphasis on application methods, fertilizer additives and soil biologicals and soil sampling. No cost to attend registration is requested by Friday, January 24th. Call or email Lacey Noterman 866-755-1654, lnote@ksu.edu or Stacy Campbell 785-628-9430, scampbel@ksu.eduStacy 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: Agricultural payroll for producers, Jan. 22 and 23

Shawna Richter-Ryerson Nebraska Game and Parks

Nebraska Game and Parks is reminding the public to use caution and test the ice when going onto frozen lakes or ponds after conservation officers responded to two incidents on Jan. 11 in western Nebraska.

No injuries or fatalities were reported in either incident, one at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area and one at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area, where all-terrain vehicles broke through the ice.

At Lake Maloney in Lincoln County, four people who had been ice fishing were riding the ATV at about 7 p.m. when it broke through the ice. Game and Parks Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

Other anglers initially assisted the four, who declined medical treatment from law enforcement.

No citations were issued, and Game and Parks will work with Nebraska Public Power District to remove the ATV from the lake.

At Cottonwood-Steverson in Cherry County, an all-terrain vehicle broke through the ice on Saturday; the incident was reported Sunday to Nebraska Game and Parks. The ATV remains in the lake.

People going onto lakes for winter recreation are reminded of the following clear-ice thickness guidelines, according to state fish, wildlife and parks agencies:

People should use an ice chisel or spud bar to strike the ice and evaluate conditions as they venture out.

Remember as winter progresses, ice changes. Cloudy ice of frozen slush is about half as strong as clear lake ice, so people should double the minimum thickness when encountering such conditions.

Ice near shore may be weakened by heat from the ground, or thinner because of rising water levels. If temperatures are below freezing, but warm during the day, go early and leave before ice melts near the shore.

Be especially careful on any ice that has moving water below it. Water movement hinders freezing causing hard-to-detect thin spots.

Materials embedded in ice, such as weeds or logs, also weaken ice. Large objects on the ice, such as duck blinds or ice shacks, can absorb the sun’s heat and melt ice.

If venturing out, tell someone your plan, bring a long throw rope and ice picks, and pack extra dry clothes.

Visit&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/game-and-parks-offers-top-8-ice-safety-tips/">other ice safety tips for anglers and ATV riders</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/1/1736887503177.png" alt="Photo Nebraska Game and Parks" />
 <figcaption>Photo Nebraska Game and Parks</figcaption>
 </figure>Shawna Richter-Ryerson Nebraska Game and ParksNebraska Game and Parks is reminding the public to use caution and test the ice when going onto frozen lakes or ponds after conservation officers responded to two incidents on Jan. 11 in western Nebraska.No injuries or fatalities were reported in either incident, one at Lake Maloney State Recreation Area and one at Cottonwood-Steverson Wildlife Management Area, where all-terrain vehicles broke through the ice.At Lake Maloney in Lincoln County, four people who had been ice fishing were riding the ATV at about 7 p.m. when it broke through the ice. Game and Parks Officers and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.Other anglers initially assisted the four, who declined medical treatment from law enforcement.No citations were issued, and Game and Parks will work with Nebraska Public Power District to remove the ATV from the lake.At Cottonwood-Steverson in Cherry County, an all-terrain vehicle broke through the ice on Saturday; the incident was reported Sunday to Nebraska Game and Parks. The ATV remains in the lake.<h2>Safety guidelines</h2>People going onto lakes for winter recreation are reminded of the following clear-ice thickness guidelines, according to state fish, wildlife and parks agencies:<ol>
 <li>Under 4 inches:&nbsp;Stay off the ice</li><li>4 inches:&nbsp;Can support ice fishing or other activities on foot</li><li>5-7 inches:&nbsp;Can support a snowmobile or small ATV</li><li>7-8 inches:&nbsp;Can support side-by-side ATV</li>
 </ol>People should use an ice chisel or spud bar to strike the ice and evaluate conditions as they venture out.Remember as winter progresses, ice changes. Cloudy ice of frozen slush is about half as strong as clear lake ice, so people should double the minimum thickness when encountering such conditions.Ice near shore may be weakened by heat from the ground, or thinner because of rising water levels. If temperatures are below freezing, but warm during the day, go early and leave before ice melts near the shore.Be especially careful on any ice that has moving water below it. Water movement hinders freezing causing hard-to-detect thin spots.Materials embedded in ice, such as weeds or logs, also weaken ice. Large objects on the ice, such as duck blinds or ice shacks, can absorb the sun’s heat and melt ice.If venturing out, tell someone your plan, bring a long throw rope and ice picks, and pack extra dry clothes.Visit&nbsp;OutdoorNebraska.gov&nbsp;for&nbsp;<a href="https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/game-and-parks-offers-top-8-ice-safety-tips/">other ice safety tips for anglers and ATV riders</a>.

Public alert after ATV incidents on frozen lakes in Nebraska

Over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. Therefore, there are many different lease arrangements, factors to consider, and places where misunderstandings can happen. Additionally, many leases are still oral leases that are “signed” with a handshake.

One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease.&nbsp; Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. They would include but are not limited to:

Hunting/fishing rights Recreation access Payment due dates Termination procedures

In addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to:

Care of fences Noxious weed control Water supply maintenance Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing season

A bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.

Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings. There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.

Local County &amp; District Extension Offices have several resources concerning leases, written leasing arrangement forms, cash rental rate averages, Kansas Agricultural Lease Law Publication C-668, etc. Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;and click onto the Farm Management tab. If you have questions contact your local County or District Extension Office. I can be contacted in the Cottonwood District, Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 and Stacy Campbell can be contacted in the Hays office at 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Over half of the farmland in Kansas is leased. Therefore, there are many different lease arrangements, factors to consider, and places where misunderstandings can happen. Additionally, many leases are still oral leases that are “signed” with a handshake.One of the best ways to create a better understanding between tenant and landlord in most cases is to have a written lease.&nbsp; Having a written lease can lead to many topics for discussion that otherwise might not be considered. They would include but are not limited to:Hunting/fishing rights Recreation access Payment due dates Termination proceduresIn addition to the previously mentioned items, a written pasture lease for example can spell out responsibilities of both parties in regards to:Care of fences Noxious weed control Water supply maintenance Grazing capacity restrictions and beginning and ending date of grazing seasonA bonus of a written lease is that it documents the terms of the business relationship in case the contract is questioned. This can be especially important if the land changes hands.Obviously, it is not necessary to have a written lease in order to have good communication between tenant and landlord but it can be helpful in spelling things out and avoiding misunderstandings and hard feelings. There may be some cases when introducing the possibility of implementing a written lease might damage the business relationship. Whether you have a written lease or not, make sure those lines of communication are kept open, visit with each other at least a few times a year.Local County &amp; District Extension Offices have several resources concerning leases, written leasing arrangement forms, cash rental rate averages, Kansas Agricultural Lease Law Publication C-668, etc. Go to&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agmanager.info/">www.agmanager.info</a>&nbsp;and click onto the Farm Management tab. If you have questions contact your local County or District Extension Office. I can be contacted in the Cottonwood District, Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 and Stacy Campbell can be contacted in the Hays office at 785-628-9430.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 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Getting it in writing – agriculture land leases

I recently came upon this article, and&nbsp;I felt it is important for parents to know that what we feed our children when they are infants and toddlers affects their lifelong health. &nbsp;Read on to learn more.&nbsp;

Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend no consumption of added sugar from in utero up until age 2. Yet most U.S. children are exposed to added sugar from a very early age. This can include before birth and during breastfeeding through the mother’s diet.&nbsp;

An NIH-funded research team led by Dr. Tadeja Gracner at the University of Southern California set out to study how exposure to sugar in utero and during infancy affects the later risk of diabetes and hypertension. To do so, they used a natural experiment: sugar rationing in the United Kingdom during and after World War II.&nbsp;

During rationing, the allotted amount of sugar was similar to current U.S. dietary guidelines: less than 40 grams per day for adults, less than 15 grams for children, and very limited amounts for children under 2 years. Sugar consumption nearly doubled immediately after rationing ended in September 1953.&nbsp;

Using data from the UK Biobank, the team looked at health outcomes for more than 60,000 people born between October 1951 and March 1956. Participants were aged 51-66 when last surveyed. Those born in July 1954 or later were conceived after the end of rationing, and thus never experienced sugar rationing, even in utero. The rest experienced rationing to varying extents, ranging from only in utero up to 2 years of age. Results appeared in&nbsp;Science&nbsp;on Oct. 31, 2024.&nbsp;

The researchers found that early life exposure to rationing reduced the risk of diabetes and hypertension decades later. Risk declined with longer exposure to rationing, particularly for exposures longer than six months postnatally. People with the longest exposure to rationing had about 35% lower diabetes risk and 20% lower hypertension risk than people who were never exposed to rationing. They also had a four-year average delay in diagnosis of diabetes and a two-year average delay in diagnosis of hypertension. Those exposed only in utero had about a third of the risk reduction that those with the longest exposure did.&nbsp;

“Studying the long-term effects of added sugar on health is challenging,” Gracner notes. “It is hard to find situations where people are randomly exposed to different nutritional environments early in life and follow them for 50 to 60 years. The end of rationing provided us with a novel natural experiment to overcome some of these challenges.”&nbsp;

The findings suggest that limiting sugar exposure in utero and during the first two years of life could protect against type 2 diabetes and hypertension. This, in turn, could reduce health care costs and extend life expectancy. The findings reinforce the outsized impact of early diet on long-term health.&nbsp;

“We are learning that many prenatal conditions can influence risk or resilience to chronic diseases later in life,” says Dr. Kriti Jain, a program official at NIA. She notes that this research builds on earlier findings related to fetal exposures, such as links between economic hardship and famine with accelerated aging, and famine with obesity.&nbsp;

Further studies will be needed to determine exactly how early sugar consumption leads to long-term health consequences.&nbsp;

Reference: Gracner T, et al.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39480913/" target="_blank">Exposure to sugar rationing in the first 1000 days of life protected against chronic disease</a>.&nbsp;Science. 2024;386(6725):1043-1048. doi: 10.1126/science.adn5421.&nbsp;

Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I recently came upon this article, and&nbsp;I felt it is important for parents to know that what we feed our children when they are infants and toddlers affects their lifelong health. &nbsp;Read on to learn more.&nbsp;Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend no consumption of added sugar from in utero up until age 2. Yet most U.S. children are exposed to added sugar from a very early age. This can include before birth and during breastfeeding through the mother’s diet.&nbsp;An NIH-funded research team led by Dr. Tadeja Gracner at the University of Southern California set out to study how exposure to sugar in utero and during infancy affects the later risk of diabetes and hypertension. To do so, they used a natural experiment: sugar rationing in the United Kingdom during and after World War II.&nbsp;During rationing, the allotted amount of sugar was similar to current U.S. dietary guidelines: less than 40 grams per day for adults, less than 15 grams for children, and very limited amounts for children under 2 years. Sugar consumption nearly doubled immediately after rationing ended in September 1953.&nbsp;Using data from the UK Biobank, the team looked at health outcomes for more than 60,000 people born between October 1951 and March 1956. Participants were aged 51-66 when last surveyed. Those born in July 1954 or later were conceived after the end of rationing, and thus never experienced sugar rationing, even in utero. The rest experienced rationing to varying extents, ranging from only in utero up to 2 years of age. Results appeared in&nbsp;Science&nbsp;on Oct. 31, 2024.&nbsp;The researchers found that early life exposure to rationing reduced the risk of diabetes and hypertension decades later. Risk declined with longer exposure to rationing, particularly for exposures longer than six months postnatally. People with the longest exposure to rationing had about 35% lower diabetes risk and 20% lower hypertension risk than people who were never exposed to rationing. They also had a four-year average delay in diagnosis of diabetes and a two-year average delay in diagnosis of hypertension. Those exposed only in utero had about a third of the risk reduction that those with the longest exposure did.&nbsp;“Studying the long-term effects of added sugar on health is challenging,” Gracner notes. “It is hard to find situations where people are randomly exposed to different nutritional environments early in life and follow them for 50 to 60 years. The end of rationing provided us with a novel natural experiment to overcome some of these challenges.”&nbsp;The findings suggest that limiting sugar exposure in utero and during the first two years of life could protect against type 2 diabetes and hypertension. This, in turn, could reduce health care costs and extend life expectancy. The findings reinforce the outsized impact of early diet on long-term health.&nbsp;“We are learning that many prenatal conditions can influence risk or resilience to chronic diseases later in life,” says Dr. Kriti Jain, a program official at NIA. She notes that this research builds on earlier findings related to fetal exposures, such as links between economic hardship and famine with accelerated aging, and famine with obesity.&nbsp;Further studies will be needed to determine exactly how early sugar consumption leads to long-term health consequences.&nbsp;— by Brian Doctrow, Ph.D.&nbsp;Reference: Gracner T, et al.&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39480913/" target="_blank">Exposure to sugar rationing in the first 1000 days of life protected against chronic disease</a>.&nbsp;Science. 2024;386(6725):1043-1048. doi: 10.1126/science.adn5421.&nbsp;Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or <a href="mailto:moniquek@ksu.edu" target="_blank">moniquek@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.&nbsp;

KOERNER: Early-life sugar intake affects chronic disease risk 

The New Year inspires new goals including financial resolutions.

The holidays can be a challenging time to save money, and now you may be motivated to regain control of your spending habits. However, saving, reallocating funds, and budgeting can be overwhelming tasks requiring attention to detail and time. The good news is that there are methods to simplify the process.

Budgets don’t have to be restrictive. In fact, a budget is simply an organizational tool that can help you keep track of income and expenses. With increased awareness, a budget can help you determine the best way to allocate your money. Overall, a budget can help you get “financially fit.” This means effectively managing your money to meet short-term and long-term goals.

So, instead of letting money management overwhelm you, here are a few ways to rethink the budgeting process.

First, pay yourself! A rewarding budgeting method is to “pay yourself first.” This means putting a set amount of money from each paycheck into savings or investment portfolios before spending anything. Organizing the remainder of your income is simplified and reduces the temptation to overspend on things you may regret. Paying yourself first streamlines goals, and for some, this can be done automatically through an electronic bank withdrawal system to make saving mindless.

Another key step to building a budget is to get organized. Keep track of bills to quantify expenses and get a realistic picture of how you spend money. To do this, carry a notebook to record all transactions for at least a week. This will increase awareness of your spending habits and help you understand where you currently allocate your money.

Once you have a better grasp of your financial habits, you can build a realistic budget. A realistic budget is a plan that accurately reflects your income, needs, and wants for your current

life circumstances. Following this type of plan will help you to find balance, and empower you to improve your financial situation.

If you want to discover more about your spending habits and how to construct a budget, join the Cottonwood Extension District on January 16th. This Personal Finance Workshop will take place at 10 am at Great Bend Public Library. Contact Karissa at 620-793-1910 to learn more.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The New Year inspires new goals including financial resolutions.The holidays can be a challenging time to save money, and now you may be motivated to regain control of your spending habits. However, saving, reallocating funds, and budgeting can be overwhelming tasks requiring attention to detail and time. The good news is that there are methods to simplify the process.Budgets don’t have to be restrictive. In fact, a budget is simply an organizational tool that can help you keep track of income and expenses. With increased awareness, a budget can help you determine the best way to allocate your money. Overall, a budget can help you get “financially fit.” This means effectively managing your money to meet short-term and long-term goals.So, instead of letting money management overwhelm you, here are a few ways to rethink the budgeting process.First, pay yourself! A rewarding budgeting method is to “pay yourself first.” This means putting a set amount of money from each paycheck into savings or investment portfolios before spending anything. Organizing the remainder of your income is simplified and reduces the temptation to overspend on things you may regret. Paying yourself first streamlines goals, and for some, this can be done automatically through an electronic bank withdrawal system to make saving mindless.Another key step to building a budget is to get organized. Keep track of bills to quantify expenses and get a realistic picture of how you spend money. To do this, carry a notebook to record all transactions for at least a week. This will increase awareness of your spending habits and help you understand where you currently allocate your money.Once you have a better grasp of your financial habits, you can build a realistic budget. A realistic budget is a plan that accurately reflects your income, needs, and wants for your currentlife circumstances. Following this type of plan will help you to find balance, and empower you to improve your financial situation.If you want to discover more about your spending habits and how to construct a budget, join the Cottonwood Extension District on January 16th. This Personal Finance Workshop will take place at 10 am at Great Bend Public Library. Contact Karissa at 620-793-1910 to learn more.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: New Year - financial resolutions

The Cottonwood Extension District along with other County &amp; District Extension offices throughout the state are offering several programs that may be of interest to agricultural producers and their families this winter.

Transition planning is always a hot topic, especially among agriculture producers and agriculture landowners. This winter K-State Research &amp; Extension (KSRE) County and Districts are teaming up with the KSRE Agriculture Economics Department to offer throughout the state. A “Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women – Succession Planning Series”. This program will feature a livestreamed keynote presentation and local hands-on activities to motivate participants to create farm succession plans and facilitate family and business conversations around this vital topic.

According to data from the U.S. Census, 70% of U.S. farmland will transfer to the next generation within 20 years.

The Succession Planning workshops will be held on successive Tuesdays in Great Bend and Hays beginning Jan. 21 and 28, and continuing on Feb. 4 and 11. To learn more and to register by the Jan. 13th deadline go to www.agmanager.info

The popular and annual “Cover Your Acres Winter Conference, Oberlin, KS. will be held January 21 &amp; 22, 2025. The same programs will be offered both days of the conference. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 5:00 p.m. The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. To see program topics and speakers and to register by the early bird deadline of January 15th go to www.wkrec.org/events

Do your currently have agriculture employees or wish to hire? Learn about – employee classification, labor laws, payroll computation, payroll deposits, and employee benefits at an “Agricultural Payroll for Producers Program”. January 22nd Dodge City, January 23 Hays, January 28 Topeka and January 30th Parsons. For additional information and to register, contact Chelsea Plummer at ecplummer@ksu.edu or 316-393-1830 or the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.

Two other programs being offered both on January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. are “Soil Fertility School” in Rush Center at Township Hall, 220 Union St., and “Keeping Grass Grass a Rangeland Brush Management: Identification and Control Program” at Hoisington Activity Center. To register for the brush management meeting call the Great Bend office 620-793-1910, to register for the soil fertility meeting call the Hays Office by Jan. 15th 785-628-9430.

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/2023/4/1681266655144.jpeg" alt="written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Stacy Campbell - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>The Cottonwood Extension District along with other County &amp; District Extension offices throughout the state are offering several programs that may be of interest to agricultural producers and their families this winter.Transition planning is always a hot topic, especially among agriculture producers and agriculture landowners. This winter K-State Research &amp; Extension (KSRE) County and Districts are teaming up with the KSRE Agriculture Economics Department to offer throughout the state. A “Leaving a Lasting Legacy for Midwestern Farm Women – Succession Planning Series”. This program will feature a livestreamed keynote presentation and local hands-on activities to motivate participants to create farm succession plans and facilitate family and business conversations around this vital topic.According to data from the U.S. Census, 70% of U.S. farmland will transfer to the next generation within 20 years.The Succession Planning workshops will be held on successive Tuesdays in Great Bend and Hays beginning Jan. 21 and 28, and continuing on Feb. 4 and 11. To learn more and to register by the Jan. 13th deadline go to www.agmanager.infoThe popular and annual “Cover Your Acres Winter Conference, Oberlin, KS. will be held January 21 &amp; 22, 2025. The same programs will be offered both days of the conference. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. and concluding at 5:00 p.m. The conference, which typically draws more than 400 attendees from Kansas and other states, highlights the latest technology, methods, and conservation practices to improve crop production in the region. To see program topics and speakers and to register by the early bird deadline of January 15th go to www.wkrec.org/eventsDo your currently have agriculture employees or wish to hire? Learn about – employee classification, labor laws, payroll computation, payroll deposits, and employee benefits at an “Agricultural Payroll for Producers Program”. January 22nd Dodge City, January 23 Hays, January 28 Topeka and January 30th Parsons. For additional information and to register, contact Chelsea Plummer at ecplummer@ksu.edu or 316-393-1830 or the Cottonwood Extension Office in Hays at 785-628-9430.Two other programs being offered both on January 29th from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. are “Soil Fertility School” in Rush Center at Township Hall, 220 Union St., and “Keeping Grass Grass a Rangeland Brush Management: Identification and Control Program” at Hoisington Activity Center. To register for the brush management meeting call the Great Bend office 620-793-1910, to register for the soil fertility meeting call the Hays Office by Jan. 15th 785-628-9430.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: Upcoming programs of interest to farmers, ranchers and spouses

It is hard to prepare for extreme winter weather when December was so warm. However, variability is a characteristic of Kansas weather and a drop in temperature with above normal precipitation can create some very stressful conditions for livestock. Animals adapt to colder weather as we go through the fall into winter, but if there is an abrupt change, without acclimation, the stress is compounded.

Many of us are all too aware of the impact wind has on what it takes to keep warm in the winter. Wind speed along with temperature, humidity, and solar radiation have been combined into an animal comfort index that can be used to classify the level of weather-related stress for cattle. The K-State Mesonet now provides both current conditions and a 7-day forecast of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/">Animal Comfort Index</a>&nbsp;that producers can use for planning.

During extreme cold, cattle need more energy just to maintain body heat. Windbreaks are a key tool in helping livestock cope with cold stress and reduce the amount of energy, and in effect cost, to maintain weight. Some of the best windbreaks are multiple rows of established trees, but they take years to develop and serve a fixed location. If building a portable windbreak or a windbreak fence, the most effective for wind protection is 75 to 80% solid to reduce wind speed but prevent snow drifting. An opening of 4 to 6” at the base will promote drying and drainage.

Bedding is another tool to help livestock manage cold stress. Bedding provides insulation from mud and frozen ground and helps keep cattle clean. Shelter and bedded areas only calves can access will help young calves better cope with the winter weather. Bulls can be overlooked during the winter months however frostbite of the scrotum can cause anywhere from short-term to permanent damage to sperm production. Windbreaks and bedding are great tools to protect your investment in bulls and their genetics.

Drought has impacted forage availability in parts of the state and may make it harder to find sources of bedding. If needed, unrolling large round bales of good quality feed can do double duty as feed and bedding for a short-term solution. Feedlot calves that received bedding (4 lbs per head per day) during a particularly cold January gained 3.33 lbs per day compared to 2.25 lbs/day for un-bedded calves. For young or already stressed calves, bedding may minimize negative health impacts from the combined stressors.

When cold stress occurs, feeding cattle late in the day can help cattle cope with night-time temperature declines as the heat of fermentation in the rumen will peak about 6 hours after consumption.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>It is hard to prepare for extreme winter weather when December was so warm. However, variability is a characteristic of Kansas weather and a drop in temperature with above normal precipitation can create some very stressful conditions for livestock. Animals adapt to colder weather as we go through the fall into winter, but if there is an abrupt change, without acclimation, the stress is compounded.Many of us are all too aware of the impact wind has on what it takes to keep warm in the winter. Wind speed along with temperature, humidity, and solar radiation have been combined into an animal comfort index that can be used to classify the level of weather-related stress for cattle. The K-State Mesonet now provides both current conditions and a 7-day forecast of the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/animal/">Animal Comfort Index</a>&nbsp;that producers can use for planning.During extreme cold, cattle need more energy just to maintain body heat. Windbreaks are a key tool in helping livestock cope with cold stress and reduce the amount of energy, and in effect cost, to maintain weight. Some of the best windbreaks are multiple rows of established trees, but they take years to develop and serve a fixed location. If building a portable windbreak or a windbreak fence, the most effective for wind protection is 75 to 80% solid to reduce wind speed but prevent snow drifting. An opening of 4 to 6” at the base will promote drying and drainage.Bedding is another tool to help livestock manage cold stress. Bedding provides insulation from mud and frozen ground and helps keep cattle clean. Shelter and bedded areas only calves can access will help young calves better cope with the winter weather. Bulls can be overlooked during the winter months however frostbite of the scrotum can cause anywhere from short-term to permanent damage to sperm production. Windbreaks and bedding are great tools to protect your investment in bulls and their genetics.Drought has impacted forage availability in parts of the state and may make it harder to find sources of bedding. If needed, unrolling large round bales of good quality feed can do double duty as feed and bedding for a short-term solution. Feedlot calves that received bedding (4 lbs per head per day) during a particularly cold January gained 3.33 lbs per day compared to 2.25 lbs/day for un-bedded calves. For young or already stressed calves, bedding may minimize negative health impacts from the combined stressors.When cold stress occurs, feeding cattle late in the day can help cattle cope with night-time temperature declines as the heat of fermentation in the rumen will peak about 6 hours after consumption.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 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

BOOR: Preparing for cold weather with livestock

Take Control of Your Health and Participate in K-State Research and Extension’s Upcoming Hypertension Awareness and Prevention program (HAPp)

•Having hypertension increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leadingcauses of death in the United States.

•Nearly half of adults in the United States (47%, or 116 million) have hypertension.

•Only about 1 in 4 adults (24%) with hypertension have their condition under control.

To address hypertension in Kansas, K-State Research and Extension is bringing the Hypertension Awareness and Prevention program (HAPp) to Ellis and Barton County. HAPp is a four-month self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) program that will provide participants with:

· A FREE validated blood pressure monitor.

· An opportunity to meet with a trained HAPp Coach twice a month to help take and track blood pressure.

· Monthly nutrition education workshops.

· Stress management and healthy lifestyle strategies.

•Participants must be at least 18 years old.

•Have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or have been prescribed high bloodpressure medication.

•Have not experienced a cardiac event within the last 6 months.

•Have not been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias.

•Have not been diagnosed with or be at risk for lymphedema.

There is strong evidence that suggests that participants who engage in SMBP along with clinical or community support can lower their high blood pressure. If you want to participate but are unsure if you meet the requirements, please contact your primary care provider for written permission to participate.

•Participants are expected to attend the Kick-Off meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm.

•Participants are expected to measure their blood pressure at home at least twice per month (February – May).

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Take Control of Your Health and Participate in K-State Research and Extension’s Upcoming Hypertension Awareness and Prevention program (HAPp)The Facts…•Having hypertension increases the risk for heart disease and stroke, which are leadingcauses of death in the United States.•Nearly half of adults in the United States (47%, or 116 million) have hypertension.•Only about 1 in 4 adults (24%) with hypertension have their condition under control.To address hypertension in Kansas, K-State Research and Extension is bringing the Hypertension Awareness and Prevention program (HAPp) to Ellis and Barton County. HAPp is a four-month self-monitoring blood pressure (SMBP) program that will provide participants with:· A FREE validated blood pressure monitor.· An opportunity to meet with a trained HAPp Coach twice a month to help take and track blood pressure.· Monthly nutrition education workshops.· Stress management and healthy lifestyle strategies.Participation Requirements:•Participants must be at least 18 years old.•Have been diagnosed with high blood pressure or have been prescribed high bloodpressure medication.•Have not experienced a cardiac event within the last 6 months.•Have not been diagnosed with atrial fibrillation or other arrhythmias.•Have not been diagnosed with or be at risk for lymphedema.There is strong evidence that suggests that participants who engage in SMBP along with clinical or community support can lower their high blood pressure. If you want to participate but are unsure if you meet the requirements, please contact your primary care provider for written permission to participate.What to Expect:•Participants are expected to attend the Kick-Off meeting on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm.•Participants are expected to measure their blood pressure at home at least twice per month (February – May).•Participants are expected to attend office hours to discuss SMBP readings and healthy lifestyle strategies twice per month (February – May). Office hours will be scheduled at the Kick-Off meeting.•Participants are highly encouraged to attend nutrition education workshops once per month (February 25th, March 25th, April 29th, May 27th).*All events will be held at the Ellis County or Barton County Extension Offices and by zoom. Registration opens on January 7, 2025, and closes on February 3, 2025. The program is FREE, but you must register to attend. For any questions, please contact Monique Koerner at moniquek@ksu.edu or 785-628-9430. To register, please call the office at 785-628-9430.Please note – HAPp Coaches will not be diagnosing conditions or interpreting blood pressure readings. The HAPp Coach’s role is to help participants: learn proper self-monitoring blood pressure techniques; make their own determination if blood pressure readings are within a healthy range; learn healthy lifestyle strategies that can reduce high blood pressure; and connect to community resources or other Extension programs that can improve health and well-being.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.eduK-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.