Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.

Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.

Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.

There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.

For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.

For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;K-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>Musk Thistle is usually a biennial or winter annual, but it will occasionally occur as a summer annual. As a biennial, it produces a rosette the first year and develops flowers and seeds the second year. As a summer annual, this thistle completes its life cycle from germination through seed production in the same growing season. Seedlings may emerge anytime during the growing season, but the plants usually remain in the rosette stage for about 90% of their life cycle.Musk thistle usually begins flowering in May and may bloom from seven to nine weeks. Seed dispersal begins seven to ten days after a head begins to bloom and an average of 11,000 seeds can be produced per plant with around 5,000 of the seeds capable of germination.Musk Thistle was declared a noxious week in Kansas in 1963. Kansas law requires all persons and organizations prevent its spread and eradicate it.There are several different methods for controlling thistle. The first line of defense is proper grazing management. Invasion of thistle is slowed on grasslands that are properly stocked to maintain a good cover of competing vegetation. Burning does not control the thistle, but it makes control more effective. Burn according to your burn plan, and then spray 10-14 days after. For the most effective control, apply herbicides while the musk thistle is in the rosette stage and actively growing, usually early May. For fall, October 1st to soil freeze is an excellent time. During the fall, most musk thistles are in the rosette stage and are most susceptible to herbicides. Use herbicides when they are growing rapidly under good soil moisture and favorable air temperatures (70-90 degrees F). A 6-12 hours rain-free period after application at the recommended rate is adequate to allow herbicide absorption.For control in pastures that have a scattered issue, you can remove them by hand. Dig the plant below the crow to prevent further development. Dig, remove the plant, and burn the flowers that are in late bud or bloom stage. Research shows that mowing is the most effective at full bloom, but must be repeated as necessary for effective control.For questions over what herbicides are labeled for use, consult K-State Research and Extension’s Chemical Weed Control guide. Available online or you can pick up a copy at most Extension offices.Column adapted from publication L-231Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;K-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: Muck thistle life cycle

One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for adults. No one is too inactive, or too young to participate. Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.

You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and there is no special clothes or equipment needed. We will have weights available if you want to use them. You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.

Regular classes will begin April 28, 2025 and will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4pm for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays located at 601 Main Street. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. I’m hoping by offering it at 4pm more

working people might also be able to attend. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu

Cottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes on a regular basis.

Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!

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="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>One of the best ways to keep your mind and body functioning at its best is to exercise. When I worked with small children we always used to say, “the best exercise for the brain is exercise!” The same holds true as we age. Exercise produces a wide range of benefits for not only our physical health, but also mental health. Regular participation in strengthening exercises can help you build muscle and increase bone density. It can also help relieve stress and reduce depression symptoms. The Stay Strong, Stay Healthy program focuses on improving the health and well being of older adults. The goal of the program is to provide safe, structured and effective strength training for adults. No one is too inactive, or too young to participate. Strength training promotes quality of life and independence, especially for adults over age 60. Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program that has been shown to increase strength, balance, and flexibility.You might be asking yourself, “I wonder what we’ll do?” It is an eight-week program that meets twice a week for one-hour. We will do warm up exercises, easy strengthening exercises, with or without weights, based on your preference, and finish with cool-down stretches and breathing exercises. The best part is there is no membership fees like at a gym and there is no special clothes or equipment needed. We will have weights available if you want to use them. You will work at your own pace and progress as you are able. There are modifications to the exercises based on your own fitness level.Regular classes will begin April 28, 2025 and will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays at 4pm for eight weeks. All classes will be held at our office in Hays located at 601 Main Street. There will be a one-time fee of $20 to participate in the eight-week program. I’m hoping by offering it at 4pm moreworking people might also be able to attend. Please call the office if you have any questions or email Monique at moniquek@ksu.eduCottonwood Extension District would like to extend a huge thank you to Heartland Community Foundation. This project was funded in part by a grant from the Ellis County Legacy Fund and the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund-Heartland of the Heartland Community Foundation. Their funding allowed us to purchase our own weight set for our district so we will be able to offer classes on a regular basis.Come join me for some fun and get healthier and stronger!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Stay strong, stay healthy

For irrigated growers this can serve as a good refresher or reminder. Giving your irrigation system a thorough check-up and tune-up this spring can lead to more effective water application and potentially, to fewer breakdowns or problems during the heart of the irrigation season. Even if irrigation has started in places like southwestern Kansas, it’s important to go through this checklist to potentially save energy and costs while irrigating to the best of the system’s abilities. The above-average seasonal temperatures might have made it where some have jumped into irrigation already, though the nights are still cold.

Here are some areas to check before irrigation starts or when the first irrigation occurs. These areas include the pump and pivot itself, but there may be additional areas to consider as this is not an exhaustive list. Some of this checklist might have been done in the fall.

· Clean pipes and structure of animal nests and check for any damage on the wires.

· Check all panel or pump wires for rodent damage.

· Change all lubricants, associated filters, and fluids if not done in the fall: engine, fuel, cooling system.

o Refill the drip oil reservoir and allow oil to drain into the drip line based on pump column length.

· Grease drive shafts on the pump and motor.

· Check spark plugs on gas, propane, or natural gas motors.

· Ensure that the right-angle gear head is free moving and clean and lubricate non-reverse pins.

· Blow out any in line filters of debris and check for damage

· Flush system thoroughly with drains removed/open to prevent plugging nozzles and pressure regulators.

· Close any drains/ valves that were opened.

o Most newer pivots have automatic frost drains that do not need maintenance, but it’s a water loss orifice that shouldn’t be overlooked.

o Tighten all pressure valves back into operation if loosened or removed for winter months

· Run the motor at the normal operating speed for 45 minutes and walk along the system looking for faulty sprinklers. Look for plugging, broken sprinklers, partially opened valves (if present), unusual distribution/movement, and leaks. If no faulty sprinklers, then any hoses and sprinklers that might have fallen off in the winter.

o Check the pressure at the pivot point and at the end of the system, particularly at the highest point of the field. Compare this to the design pressure indicated in the pivot chart and adjust accordingly.

o Nozzle wear depends on the quality of the water and the system operating pressure. As a rule of thumb, sprinkler replacement should be considered after approximately 10,000-12,000 hours of operation.

o Be sure to replace malfunctioning nozzles with ones listed on the computer printout you received from the manufacturer (i.e. pivot chart).

o Visually inspecting the sprinkler in operation before the irrigation season starts can help identify whether water application is uniform and adequate and whether repairs are needed.

o If in an area with water quality concerns, grab some water samples for water quality testing to anticipate necessary mitigation.

· Check the chemigation pump and safety equipment operation.

o Check hoses and replace them if cracking is noticeable.

· Check for correct air pressure and extreme wear and tear in each pivot tire

Performing a preseason checkup of your irrigation equipment this spring should be part of your regular maintenance schedule. Component wear happens, resulting in less uniform water application, increased energy use, and untimely breakdowns during your irrigation season. Identify and replace worn components now to have your system ready when you need it.

Information provided by Tina Sullivan, Northeast Area Agronomist and Jonathan Aguilar, Water Resources Engineer.

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>For irrigated growers this can serve as a good refresher or reminder. Giving your irrigation system a thorough check-up and tune-up this spring can lead to more effective water application and potentially, to fewer breakdowns or problems during the heart of the irrigation season. Even if irrigation has started in places like southwestern Kansas, it’s important to go through this checklist to potentially save energy and costs while irrigating to the best of the system’s abilities. The above-average seasonal temperatures might have made it where some have jumped into irrigation already, though the nights are still cold.Here are some areas to check before irrigation starts or when the first irrigation occurs. These areas include the pump and pivot itself, but there may be additional areas to consider as this is not an exhaustive list. Some of this checklist might have been done in the fall.· Clean pipes and structure of animal nests and check for any damage on the wires.· Check all panel or pump wires for rodent damage.· Change all lubricants, associated filters, and fluids if not done in the fall: engine, fuel, cooling system.o Refill the drip oil reservoir and allow oil to drain into the drip line based on pump column length.· Grease drive shafts on the pump and motor.· Check gearboxes for each pivot tower.· Check spark plugs on gas, propane, or natural gas motors.· Ensure that the right-angle gear head is free moving and clean and lubricate non-reverse pins.· Blow out any in line filters of debris and check for damage· Flush system thoroughly with drains removed/open to prevent plugging nozzles and pressure regulators.· Close any drains/ valves that were opened.o Most newer pivots have automatic frost drains that do not need maintenance, but it’s a water loss orifice that shouldn’t be overlooked.o Tighten all pressure valves back into operation if loosened or removed for winter months· Run the motor at the normal operating speed for 45 minutes and walk along the system looking for faulty sprinklers. Look for plugging, broken sprinklers, partially opened valves (if present), unusual distribution/movement, and leaks. If no faulty sprinklers, then any hoses and sprinklers that might have fallen off in the winter.o Check the pressure at the pivot point and at the end of the system, particularly at the highest point of the field. Compare this to the design pressure indicated in the pivot chart and adjust accordingly.o Nozzle wear depends on the quality of the water and the system operating pressure. As a rule of thumb, sprinkler replacement should be considered after approximately 10,000-12,000 hours of operation.o Be sure to replace malfunctioning nozzles with ones listed on the computer printout you received from the manufacturer (i.e. pivot chart).o Visually inspecting the sprinkler in operation before the irrigation season starts can help identify whether water application is uniform and adequate and whether repairs are needed.o If in an area with water quality concerns, grab some water samples for water quality testing to anticipate necessary mitigation.· Check the chemigation pump and safety equipment operation.o Check hoses and replace them if cracking is noticeable.· Check for correct air pressure and extreme wear and tear in each pivot tirePerforming a preseason checkup of your irrigation equipment this spring should be part of your regular maintenance schedule. Component wear happens, resulting in less uniform water application, increased energy use, and untimely breakdowns during your irrigation season. Identify and replace worn components now to have your system ready when you need it.Information provided by Tina Sullivan, Northeast Area Agronomist and Jonathan Aguilar, Water Resources Engineer.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: Pre-season irrigation checklist - maximize efficiency

If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.

Select the right tree for the site.

To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.

Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.

When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.

Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.

If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.

Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.

The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.

Remove all containers from the root ball.

Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.

Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.

Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.

Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.

Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.

Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.

Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.

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

K-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>If you’re planning to plant a tree in your yard this spring, there are some steps you can take to make sure it has its best chance of success.Select the right tree for the site.To avoid serious problems, choose trees that are adapted to your location. Consider whether the tree produces nuisance fruit or if there are disease-resistant varieties available. Also consider the mature size of a tree to be sure you have enough room.Keep the tree well-watered and in a shady location until planting.When moving the tree, lift it by the root ball or pot and not by the trunk.Before planting, remove all wires, labels, cords or anything else tied to the plant.If left on, they may eventually girdle the branch to which they are attached.Dig a proper hole.Make the hole deep enough so the root flare (point where the trunk and roots meet) is visible when planted. Plant the tree on solid ground, not fill dirt. In other words, don't dig the hole too deep and then add soil back to the hole before placing the tree.The width of the planting hole is very important. It should be three times the width of the root ball. Loosening the soil outside the hole so it is five times the diameter of the root ball will allow the tree to spread its roots faster.Remove all containers from the root ball.Cut away plastic and peat pots; roll burlap and wire baskets back into the hole, cutting as much of the excess away as possible. If you can remove the wire basket without disturbing the root ball, do it. If roots have been circling around in the container, cut them and fluff them out so they do not continue growing in a circle inside the hole becoming girdling roots later.Backfill the hole with the same soil that was removed.Amendments such as peat moss likely do more harm than good. Make sure the soil that goes back is loosened. Add water as you fill to ensure good root to soil contact and prevent air pockets. There is no need to fertilize at planting.Minimize pruning after planting.Foliage is necessary for manufacturing energy to support a healthy tree. Heavy pruning reduces the number of leaves and consequently the amount of energy generated. Corrective pruning can be done at planting to remove dead, damaged or diseased branches or branches that are rubbing against each other.Water the tree thoroughly.Then, water once a week for the first season if there is insufficient rainfall.Mulch around the tree.Mulch should be 2-4 inches deep and cover an area 2 to 3 times the diameter of the root ball. Avoid mulching right up to the trunk of the tree. Leave a 3 to 6-inch gap between the mulch and the trunk to prevent damaging the tree. Mulching reduces competition from other plants, conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature.Stake only when necessary.Larger trees or those in windy locations may need to be staked the first year. Movement is necessary for the trunk and roots to develop properly. Staking should be designed to limit movement of the root ball rather than immobilize the trunk.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-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: Advice for planting a tree this spring

Our HAPp program began in January 2025 and is going strong! Participants are learning the basics about hypertension, how to take their blood pressure at home and be in dialogue with their health care provider about the data. They are also learning about lifestyle choices that can affect their blood pressure such as diet, exercise, and stress management.

HAPp offers office hours twice a month that coach participants and answer questions around hypertension. They are also setting goals in relationship to the health goals they want to accomplish. In addition to the office hours, participants, as well as the public, are invited to the nutrition workshops.

We have had two of our nutrition workshops that also include a food demonstration. At our first workshop we discussed the role of fat in our diet and learned about how to read food labels. Our program assistant conducted a food demonstration, and participants were able to taste test a couple of delicious recipes.

The second workshop included a special guest speaker, Dr. Travis Haneke, a cardiologist from Hays Medical Center. Dr. Haneke gave an overview of hypertension from a cardiologist’s point of view and was able to answer detailed questions about what hypertension is and how it affects the body! He was a great addition to the night as we further explored how salt in our diet affects blood pressure. We finished the night with another food demonstration from Cottonwood District program assistant, Jacy, and she broke down the numbers for us on how using reduced sodium products in recipes affects the bottom line. We also tasted a couple of great recipes! Black bean soup and a lentil recipe were outstanding!

The participants are reporting great successes including lowered blood pressure readings and just an overall feeling of wellness after a couple months into the program. They enjoy the office hours to troubleshoot specifics for themselves as well as the group support offered at the nutrition programs. Most importantly, participants regularly monitor their blood pressure at home to enjoy better health in the long term.

It’s not too late to join us! We have two nutrition programs left scheduled for April 29th and May 27th. In April we will discuss cooking with herbs and spices and in May we will explore ways to eat healthy when out and about. Both nights will include food demonstrations and tasting new recipes and foods.

Please contact me if you have any questions!

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>Our HAPp program began in January 2025 and is going strong! Participants are learning the basics about hypertension, how to take their blood pressure at home and be in dialogue with their health care provider about the data. They are also learning about lifestyle choices that can affect their blood pressure such as diet, exercise, and stress management.HAPp offers office hours twice a month that coach participants and answer questions around hypertension. They are also setting goals in relationship to the health goals they want to accomplish. In addition to the office hours, participants, as well as the public, are invited to the nutrition workshops.We have had two of our nutrition workshops that also include a food demonstration. At our first workshop we discussed the role of fat in our diet and learned about how to read food labels. Our program assistant conducted a food demonstration, and participants were able to taste test a couple of delicious recipes.The second workshop included a special guest speaker, Dr. Travis Haneke, a cardiologist from Hays Medical Center. Dr. Haneke gave an overview of hypertension from a cardiologist’s point of view and was able to answer detailed questions about what hypertension is and how it affects the body! He was a great addition to the night as we further explored how salt in our diet affects blood pressure. We finished the night with another food demonstration from Cottonwood District program assistant, Jacy, and she broke down the numbers for us on how using reduced sodium products in recipes affects the bottom line. We also tasted a couple of great recipes! Black bean soup and a lentil recipe were outstanding!The participants are reporting great successes including lowered blood pressure readings and just an overall feeling of wellness after a couple months into the program. They enjoy the office hours to troubleshoot specifics for themselves as well as the group support offered at the nutrition programs. Most importantly, participants regularly monitor their blood pressure at home to enjoy better health in the long term.It’s not too late to join us! We have two nutrition programs left scheduled for April 29th and May 27th. In April we will discuss cooking with herbs and spices and in May we will explore ways to eat healthy when out and about. Both nights will include food demonstrations and tasting new recipes and foods.Please contact me if you have any questions!Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or MONIQUEK@KSU.EDU. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program

Understanding spray water quality is a crucial first step for successful herbicide applications for farmers. Much of the water used for herbicide applications in Kansas is inherently “hard,” and the quality of water from some wells is decreasing as water resources decrease. This article will be a shortened version that will focus on the effects of water quality on herbicide efficacy, particularly in postemergence applications. To see the full article, google K-State Agronomy eUpdates. Three main factors affect water quality in Kansas - turbidity, pH, and hardness.

Turbidity is defined as the clarity of water and is mostly affected by larger particles suspended in the water, such as algae, clay, minerals, or organic matter. Poor turbidity is more likely to exist where surface waters such as ponds, streams, or rivers are the source of spray water. These suspended particles interact with many of our herbicides and can influence uptake by the plants, chemical changes at the site-of-action (SOA), and decrease the performance of sprayer equipment. Its effect is severe on cationic (positively charged) herbicides (paraquat and diquat) and herbicides with low soil mobility (glyphosate). If turbidity is an issue, chelating agents may be available for use in holding ponds or tanks prior to mixing in the spray tank.

Spray water pH is a measure of acidity or the presence of hydrogen ions. Pure water is neutral, having a pH of 7.0, whereas values below 7 are considered acidic, and values above 7 are basic. Kansas surface and subsurface water pH typically ranges from 6.5 to 8.5. Generally, pH values of spray water in Kansas do not have a large effect on the herbicides commonly applied. However, there are some exceptions.

Water hardness is one of the largest issues impacting herbicide applications in Kansas. Hardness is caused by the presence of positively charged minerals (cations) suspended in the water, particularly calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and iron (Fe). Because many of our herbicides, notably glyphosate and glufosinate, form weak acids (negatively charged) when mixed in water, cations can bind to herbicide molecules, thus changing how the herbicide is absorbed by the plants and altering its ability to bind at the site of action.

Water hardness can be classified into the following groups based on the total number of cations present expressed in parts per million (ppm): Soft = less than 75 ppm, moderately hard = 75 to 150 ppm, hard = 150 to 300 ppm, and very hard = greater than 300 ppm.

To combat hard water antagonism, water conditioners such as ammonium sulfate (AMS) are recommended with many of our postemergence herbicides. When added to the water prior to the herbicide, AMS produces ammonium ions which bind to the herbicide and prevent other cations from interacting with it. Recommended rates of AMS range from 8.5 to 17 pounds per 100

gallons of spray water. North Dakota State University researchers developed a simple formula for calculating AMS needs based on the presence of cations in the water and their ability to interact with herbicides:

A handy Excel-based version of this formula can be found at the website: https://sprayers101.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AMS-Calculator-Sprayers101-1.xlsx

Summary - water quality has a large impact on herbicide efficacy. As water resources decline, water quality can and does change over time. A proper water test is the best way to understand what characteristics are influencing our spray applications and how to mitigate those effects. K-State, as well as several commercial providers, can conduct water tests for a nominal charge.

During the summer of 2025, researchers at K-State will be collecting spray water samples from around the state to test for quality. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact your local Extension agent. To read about liquid AMS replacements and the full article google K-State Agronomy eUpdates.

Information provided by Patrick Geier, Sarah Lancaster, and Jeremie Kouame, K-State Weed Management Specialist.

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>Understanding spray water quality is a crucial first step for successful herbicide applications for farmers. Much of the water used for herbicide applications in Kansas is inherently “hard,” and the quality of water from some wells is decreasing as water resources decrease. This article will be a shortened version that will focus on the effects of water quality on herbicide efficacy, particularly in postemergence applications. To see the full article, google K-State Agronomy eUpdates. Three main factors affect water quality in Kansas - turbidity, pH, and hardness.Turbidity is defined as the clarity of water and is mostly affected by larger particles suspended in the water, such as algae, clay, minerals, or organic matter. Poor turbidity is more likely to exist where surface waters such as ponds, streams, or rivers are the source of spray water. These suspended particles interact with many of our herbicides and can influence uptake by the plants, chemical changes at the site-of-action (SOA), and decrease the performance of sprayer equipment. Its effect is severe on cationic (positively charged) herbicides (paraquat and diquat) and herbicides with low soil mobility (glyphosate). If turbidity is an issue, chelating agents may be available for use in holding ponds or tanks prior to mixing in the spray tank.Spray water pH is a measure of acidity or the presence of hydrogen ions. Pure water is neutral, having a pH of 7.0, whereas values below 7 are considered acidic, and values above 7 are basic. Kansas surface and subsurface water pH typically ranges from 6.5 to 8.5. Generally, pH values of spray water in Kansas do not have a large effect on the herbicides commonly applied. However, there are some exceptions.Water hardness is one of the largest issues impacting herbicide applications in Kansas. Hardness is caused by the presence of positively charged minerals (cations) suspended in the water, particularly calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), potassium (K), and iron (Fe). Because many of our herbicides, notably glyphosate and glufosinate, form weak acids (negatively charged) when mixed in water, cations can bind to herbicide molecules, thus changing how the herbicide is absorbed by the plants and altering its ability to bind at the site of action.Water hardness can be classified into the following groups based on the total number of cations present expressed in parts per million (ppm): Soft = less than 75 ppm, moderately hard = 75 to 150 ppm, hard = 150 to 300 ppm, and very hard = greater than 300 ppm.To combat hard water antagonism, water conditioners such as ammonium sulfate (AMS) are recommended with many of our postemergence herbicides. When added to the water prior to the herbicide, AMS produces ammonium ions which bind to the herbicide and prevent other cations from interacting with it. Recommended rates of AMS range from 8.5 to 17 pounds per 100gallons of spray water. North Dakota State University researchers developed a simple formula for calculating AMS needs based on the presence of cations in the water and their ability to interact with herbicides:A handy Excel-based version of this formula can be found at the website: https://sprayers101.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/AMS-Calculator-Sprayers101-1.xlsxSummary - water quality has a large impact on herbicide efficacy. As water resources decline, water quality can and does change over time. A proper water test is the best way to understand what characteristics are influencing our spray applications and how to mitigate those effects. K-State, as well as several commercial providers, can conduct water tests for a nominal charge.During the summer of 2025, researchers at K-State will be collecting spray water samples from around the state to test for quality. If you are interested in participating in this study, please contact your local Extension agent. To read about liquid AMS replacements and the full article google K-State Agronomy eUpdates.Information provided by Patrick Geier, Sarah Lancaster, and Jeremie Kouame, K-State Weed Management Specialist.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: Role of water quality on effective herbicide applications

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

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

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

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

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

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Crabgrass preventers are another name for preemergence herbicides that prevent crabgrass seeds from developing into mature plants. Many people have a somewhat foggy idea of how they work and assume they kill the weed seed.&nbsp; Such is not the case. They do not kill the seed or even keep the seed from germinating but rather kill the young plant after it germinates.&nbsp; Therefore, they do not prevent germination but prevent emergence.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Crabgrass preventers are just that – preventers. With few exceptions they have no effect on existing crabgrass plants, so they must be applied before germination. Additionally, preventers do not last forever once applied to the soil.&nbsp; Microorganisms and natural processes begin to gradually break them down soon after they are applied. If some products are applied too early, they may have lost much of their strength by the time they are needed. Most crabgrass preventers are fairly ineffective after about 60 days, but there is considerable variation among products.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; For most of Kansas, crabgrass typically begins to germinate around May 1 or a little later. April 15 is normally a good target date for applying preventer because it gives active ingredients time to evenly disperse in the soil before crabgrass germination starts.&nbsp; Even better, base timing on the bloom of ornamental plants. The Eastern Redbud tree is a good choice for this purpose. When the trees in your area approach full bloom, apply crabgrass preventer. A follow-up application will be needed about 8 weeks later unless you are using Dimension or Barricade.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dimension and Barricade are the only two products that give season-long control of crabgrass from a single application. In fact, they can be applied earlier than April 15 and still have sufficient residual strength to last the season. Barricade can even be applied in late fall for crabgrass control the next season.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dimension can be applied as early as March 1. Because of the added flexibility in timing, these products are favorites of lawn care companies who have many customers to service in the spring. Though Dimension is usually not applied as early as Barricade, it is the herbicide of choice if it must be applied later than recommended. It is the exception to the rule that preemergence herbicides do not kill existing weeds. Dimension can kill crabgrass as long as it is young (two- to three-leaf stage). Dimension is also the best choice if treating a lawn that was planted late last fall. Normally a preemergence herbicide is not recommended unless the lawn has been mowed two to four times. But Dimension is kind to young tall fescue, perennial ryegrass, and Kentucky bluegrass seedlings and some formulations can be applied as early as two weeks after the first sign of germination. However, read the label of the specific product you wish to use to ensure that this use is allowed. Lawns established in the fall can be safely treated with Dimension the following spring even if they have not been mowed.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Crabgrass preventers

If you have called or stopped by our Cottonwood Extension Offices, you have spoken to some of the most valuable members of our team!

The agents across the Cottonwood Extension District are blessed to have incredible staff to support and assist in so many ways.

Brenda and Theresa are our office professionals and they manage a multitude of tasks, well beyond answering the phone and greeting those who step through our doors. They help to keep us organized, manage the district finances and website, and occasionally “mom” us when schedules and tasks get overwhelming. In addition, they manage so many tasks for events such as the fairs, Walk Kansas, and much more. We couldn’t function without them!

Jacy is the district-wide program assistant and provides wonderful support from scheduling social media to assisting with programs to general coordination of supplies for those programs. If you happened to see our National Ag Week videos, Jacy took my crazy idea and made it happen to share two books from local authors with 4-H youth reading. Her fun and “can do” attitude make her a joy with whom to work!

We are also fortunate to have a couple of student assistants from time to time in our offices. Kiera is a Barton Community College student and a Midway-Russell 4-H member and brings a willingness to work and help wherever needed. This summer we will have a student summer assistant in each office who assist with copies, fair input, answering the phones, and whatever else is needed. One of our goals is always to expose these students to the larger world of Extension work!

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>If you have called or stopped by our Cottonwood Extension Offices, you have spoken to some of the most valuable members of our team!The agents across the Cottonwood Extension District are blessed to have incredible staff to support and assist in so many ways.Brenda and Theresa are our office professionals and they manage a multitude of tasks, well beyond answering the phone and greeting those who step through our doors. They help to keep us organized, manage the district finances and website, and occasionally “mom” us when schedules and tasks get overwhelming. In addition, they manage so many tasks for events such as the fairs, Walk Kansas, and much more. We couldn’t function without them!Jacy is the district-wide program assistant and provides wonderful support from scheduling social media to assisting with programs to general coordination of supplies for those programs. If you happened to see our National Ag Week videos, Jacy took my crazy idea and made it happen to share two books from local authors with 4-H youth reading. Her fun and “can do” attitude make her a joy with whom to work!We are also fortunate to have a couple of student assistants from time to time in our offices. Kiera is a Barton Community College student and a Midway-Russell 4-H member and brings a willingness to work and help wherever needed. This summer we will have a student summer assistant in each office who assist with copies, fair input, answering the phones, and whatever else is needed. One of our goals is always to expose these students to the larger world of Extension work!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: It takes a team

Last year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn. Corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.

Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.

In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.

This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.

Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.

Chemical Control: Corn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for 1 month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.

The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU.

If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 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>Last year’s growing season brought to Kansas a new disease to corn. Corn stunt spiroplasma and its associated vector the corn leafhopper insect. It was confirmed in 26 counties in 2024. Active field scouting last year confirmed active leaf hoppers in many additional counties. Although the majority of the positive reports are from field corn, also confirmed corn stunt spiroplasma in sweet corn as well. High levels of disease were found in late-planted and double-cropped corn, leading to potential yield reduction. So be aware that late planted and double-cropped corn is more at risk of contracting corn stunt disease. Early planting of corn is advised as leafhopper infestations, and corn stunt disease will increase as the season progresses. Removal of volunteer corn plants following the growing season is also advised to reduce overwintering sites for adult corn leafhoppers.Symptoms of the disease may include shortened internodes, which can result in a stunted stature of the corn plant as well as leaves with red discoloration. Because other factors in the environment can cause red or purple discoloration in corn, laboratory testing is important to diagnose corn stunt disease and distinguish it from other stressors. Corn stunt disease can result in yield loss due to severe plant stunting, smaller ear size and loose/lost kernels.In the past, corn stunt disease has been limited in distribution to southern Texas, Florida, and California in the United States. Corn stunt is caused by a wall-less bacterial pathogen called corn stunt spiroplasma. The corn leafhopper can also transmit additional pathogens, either singly or in combination with the corn stunt spiroplasma. To date, only corn stunt spiroplasma has been detected in Kansas. Additional research is needed to determine the presence of other pathogens vectored by corn leafhopper in Kansas.This disease is spread only by the corn leafhopper. Corn leafhopper acquires pathogens within minutes of feeding on infected corn plants but it can take up to 30 days for the leafhopper to be able to infect healthy corn plants during feeding events.Although the infestation by the corn leafhoppers usually begins at the early crop stages, and the transmission of the pathogens occurs in the vegetative growth stages, symptoms of corn stunt disease only appear later in the season, generally 30 days after leafhopper feeding, when corn has already reached the reproductive stages.Chemical Control: Corn stunt disease incidence will not be reduced by insecticide control. If you see disease symptoms in the field, the plants have already been infected. Infected plants will not show symptoms for 1 month. If the corn is mature enough, then infection may not impact corn kernels. According to Corteva Agriscience, insecticidal seed treatments consisting of imidacloprid and clothianidin can provide control of corn leafhoppers up to the V3 growth stage. After that, plants are susceptible to acquiring the corn stunt pathogens through leafhopper feeding.The corn leafhopper is relatively simple to identify under magnification. These leafhoppers are light tan to yellowish-white in color and approximately 1/8” long. Two distinct dark spots between the antennae and eyes are very characteristic of this species. Nymphs lack wings and can vary in color. Like most leafhoppers, all stages move quickly when disturbed and hide in shaded areas of corn plants. All stages can be sampled using a sweep net; a video showing how to sample for corn leafhoppers in mature corn canopies can be found here: https://youtu.be/QgLuWWSwHWU.If you ever have any questions or during the growing season need me to look at any of your corn fields, please give me a call at 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: Corn stunt disease – a new threat to Kansas corn

A Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.

Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.

“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.

For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.

Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:

· It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators.

· It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth.

· Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.

“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.

Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.

The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.

Rastok said not counting such human activities as urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”

Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at www.kansasforests.org,

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910. K-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>A Kansas Forest Service official is urging Kansans to be on the lookout for a pair of invasive species that threaten the state’s forests and ecosystems by pushing out native vegetation.Ryan Rastok, the forest health coordinator with KFS, said Callery pear and bush honeysuckle are especially meddlesome this time of year.“I was flying back from Georgia into Kansas City recently and as we were flying into the airport, I could see an abundance of callery pear, even from the plane,” Rastok said.For a brief time – often in early April – the Callery pear puts on a stunning display of white flowers. But behind the beauty belies a menace.Native to China, the Callery pear includes 26 cultivars that present significant ecological concerns in Kansas and Missouri. Among them:· It displaces native trees and plants in the wild, which lowers ecologocial biodiversity. The tree does not host native pollinators.· It leafs out before woodland wildflowers emerge from dormancy, robbing them of critical sunlight and preventing their growth.· Its’ egg-shaped structure – at heights of 30-40 feet – and brittle wood make it prone to falling limbs that can damage people and property.And, Rastok says, it smells.“Yeah, there’s been a myriad of descriptions for the smell, most of them vile and maybe some not appropriate to say out loud,” he said.Bush Honeysuckle is another invasive that Rastok urges homeowners to identify and remove. The shrub spreads up to 15-20 feet in height with flowers that change from white to yellow; juicy red berries; and opposite, simple leaves that green up much earlier than surrounding native vegetation.The shrub typically flowers in May or June, and unlike the Callery pear, is more fragrant.Rastok said not counting such human activities as urban sprawl and others, bush honeysuckle “is the biggest threat to our native forests and ecosystems in Kansas, and it’s continuing to spread so we need to keep the pressure on that one, as well. The biggest issue right now is that it’s starting to establish in the state’s woodlands where it will eventually push out our native vegetation…it simplifies the ecosystem by lowering its overall floral and faunal diversity.”Neither the Callery pear nor the bush honeysuckle are easily managed by prescribed burning, Rastok said. More information on controls, and options for replenishing areas where trees have been removed, is available from the Kansas Forest Service at www.kansasforests.org,Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910. K-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: Kansans be on the lookout for invasive shrub species 

As lawns begin to turn green, controlling weeds and applying fertilizer is important.

Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:

March Spot treat broadleaf weeds, if necessary. Treat on a day that is 50 degrees or warmer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness.

April Apply crabgrass preventer when redbud trees are in full bloom, usually in April. The preventer needs to be watered in before it will start to work. One-quarter inch of water will be enough to water in any of the products commonly available.

May Fertilize the lawn with a slow-release fertilizer if you water your lawn or if you normally receive enough rainfall that your turf doesn’t go drought-dormant during the summer. If there are broadleaf weeds, spot treat with a spray or use a fertilizer that includes a weed killer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness of the weed killer, but the fertilizer needs to be watered in. If you are using a product that has both fertilizer and weed killer, wait 24 hours after application before watering in. If grubs have been a problem in the past, apply a product containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole during May or anytime from May through June for imidacloprid. These products work to prevent grub damage. If rainfall does not occur within 24 hours, irrigate with ¼ inch of water.

June through Mid-July Apply second round of crabgrass preventer by June 15 – unless you have used Dimension (dithiopyr) or Barricade (prodiamine) for the April application.

Late-July through August If you see grub damage, apply a grub killer that contains Dylox. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole are effective against young grubs but may not be effective on late instar grubs. The grub killer containing Dylox must be watered in within 24 hours or effectiveness drops.

September Fertilize around Labor Day. This is the most important fertilization of the year. Water in the fertilizer if rainfall does not occur.

November Fertilize. This fertilizer is taken up by the roots but is not used until the following spring. Water in fertilizer. Spray for broadleaf weeds even if they are small. Broadleaf weeds are much easier to control in the fall than in the spring. Try to spray on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Use label rates for all products. Domenghini reminds homeowners that using best practices for turf management is the most effective way to manage their lawn.

“This includes watering only when needed and only applying as much as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is more efficient than frequent, shallow watering. Excessive fertilizer does not equal a healthier lawn and follow recommendations for lawn height when mowing."

She also recommends getting the soil tested to determine nutrient levels. The best start to a healthy lawn is healthy soil.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-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>As lawns begin to turn green, controlling weeds and applying fertilizer is important.Cool-season grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue are among the most common grasses needing attention, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, who shares the following maintenance calendar:March Spot treat broadleaf weeds, if necessary. Treat on a day that is 50 degrees or warmer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness.April Apply crabgrass preventer when redbud trees are in full bloom, usually in April. The preventer needs to be watered in before it will start to work. One-quarter inch of water will be enough to water in any of the products commonly available.May Fertilize the lawn with a slow-release fertilizer if you water your lawn or if you normally receive enough rainfall that your turf doesn’t go drought-dormant during the summer. If there are broadleaf weeds, spot treat with a spray or use a fertilizer that includes a weed killer. Rain or irrigation within 24 hours of application will reduce effectiveness of the weed killer, but the fertilizer needs to be watered in. If you are using a product that has both fertilizer and weed killer, wait 24 hours after application before watering in. If grubs have been a problem in the past, apply a product containing imidacloprid or chlorantraniliprole during May or anytime from May through June for imidacloprid. These products work to prevent grub damage. If rainfall does not occur within 24 hours, irrigate with ¼ inch of water.June through Mid-July Apply second round of crabgrass preventer by June 15 – unless you have used Dimension (dithiopyr) or Barricade (prodiamine) for the April application.Late-July through August If you see grub damage, apply a grub killer that contains Dylox. Imidacloprid and chlorantraniliprole are effective against young grubs but may not be effective on late instar grubs. The grub killer containing Dylox must be watered in within 24 hours or effectiveness drops.September Fertilize around Labor Day. This is the most important fertilization of the year. Water in the fertilizer if rainfall does not occur.November Fertilize. This fertilizer is taken up by the roots but is not used until the following spring. Water in fertilizer. Spray for broadleaf weeds even if they are small. Broadleaf weeds are much easier to control in the fall than in the spring. Try to spray on a day that is at least 50 degrees. Use label rates for all products. Domenghini reminds homeowners that using best practices for turf management is the most effective way to manage their lawn.“This includes watering only when needed and only applying as much as needed. Deep, infrequent watering is more efficient than frequent, shallow watering. Excessive fertilizer does not equal a healthier lawn and follow recommendations for lawn height when mowing."She also recommends getting the soil tested to determine nutrient levels. The best start to a healthy lawn is healthy soil.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.K-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: Cool season lawn calendar 

Sleep-related deaths are the leading cause of death for infants over 28 days and

claim 3,500 lives each year in the United States. According to the most recent data provided by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas 2021 infant mortality rate (IMR) was 5.3 per 1,000 live births. This means nearly 200 babies did not survive to celebrate their first birthday.

The good news is that overall, the infant rate has declined significantly from 2002 to 2021. Furthermore, the 2022 Kansas State Child Death Review Board reported that 58% of all Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID) were found sleeping in an adult bed and 98% of the SIDS deaths had one or more factors contributing to an unsafe sleep environment.

“Too many babies are dying, which means too many families are grieving” says Christy Schunn,

Executive Director of Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network. "While we have made progress over the last ten years, the KIDS Network remains committed to working with partners across Kansas to continue intervention efforts to decrease infant mortality and protect the lives of our state’s youngest and most vulnerable population."

Together with Cottonwood District and Infant Toddler Services- Kid Link, the KIDS Network will host a Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower, Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 11am-1pm at St. Nicholas Church, 2901 E. 13th St. Community Baby Showers are an interactive and educational event for expectant parents or new parents (under six months) and their support people to learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep—all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in Clutter-free Crib. The pregnant women who attend the shower and receive the safe sleep training will receive a free portable crib and a wearable blanket, based on availability. Breastfeeding, tobacco awareness, and mental health resources will be available in addition to many other vendors who will have giveaways and door prizes. Refreshments will be served. Do you know someone who could benefit? Encourage them to attend the Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower in either Barton or Ellis County. Educational sessions begin every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Pre and post surveys will be required to receive crib and wearable blanket. To sign up for the Ellis County Community Baby Shower visit: bit.ly/ellisco-communitybabyshower

Barton County Health Department and Kansas Children’s Services League Healthy Families will be co-hosting the Barton County Community Baby Shower on Thursday April 24, 2025, from 4 to 6:30 pm. This event is at an indoor location this year at the Great Bend Events Center. Over

20 different organizations will be providing information for attendees. Door prize drawings will be held during the event. Safe sleep demonstrations will be presented throughout the event. Pregnant women or those with infants 6 months of age and under who complete the safe sleep pre- and post-test as well as the safe sleep demonstration will receive a portable crib and sleep sack until supplies run out. We will also be providing a car seat check lane in the parking lot. Certified Car Seat Technicians are available to teach attendees to properly install car seats. Technicians can also check already installed car seats to make sure they are installed properly. Tdap vaccine will be available to pregnant women or caregivers to protect newborns from pertussis. Nurses will be available to check immunization records for attendees and make recommendations if vaccines are due.

Come check out the local resources for new families at the Great Bend Events Center on Thursday, April 24, from 4 to 6:30 pm.

The KIDS Network is a nonprofit agency serving individuals who have been touched by the tragedy of infant death or SIDS in Kansas and those individuals or organizations who strive to reduce the risk of infant deaths by providing supportive services, community education, professional training and supporting associated research.

<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>Sleep-related deaths are the leading cause of death for infants over 28 days andclaim 3,500 lives each year in the United States. According to the most recent data provided by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the Kansas 2021 infant mortality rate (IMR) was 5.3 per 1,000 live births. This means nearly 200 babies did not survive to celebrate their first birthday.The good news is that overall, the infant rate has declined significantly from 2002 to 2021. Furthermore, the 2022 Kansas State Child Death Review Board reported that 58% of all Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths (SUID) were found sleeping in an adult bed and 98% of the SIDS deaths had one or more factors contributing to an unsafe sleep environment.“Too many babies are dying, which means too many families are grieving” says Christy Schunn,Executive Director of Kansas Infant Death and SIDS (KIDS) Network. "While we have made progress over the last ten years, the KIDS Network remains committed to working with partners across Kansas to continue intervention efforts to decrease infant mortality and protect the lives of our state’s youngest and most vulnerable population."Together with Cottonwood District and Infant Toddler Services- Kid Link, the KIDS Network will host a Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower, Saturday, April 5, 2025 from 11am-1pm at St. Nicholas Church, 2901 E. 13th St. Community Baby Showers are an interactive and educational event for expectant parents or new parents (under six months) and their support people to learn the ABCs of Safe Sleep—all babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in Clutter-free Crib. The pregnant women who attend the shower and receive the safe sleep training will receive a free portable crib and a wearable blanket, based on availability. Breastfeeding, tobacco awareness, and mental health resources will be available in addition to many other vendors who will have giveaways and door prizes. Refreshments will be served. Do you know someone who could benefit? Encourage them to attend the Safe Sleep Community Baby Shower in either Barton or Ellis County. Educational sessions begin every 15 minutes from 11 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Pre and post surveys will be required to receive crib and wearable blanket. To sign up for the Ellis County Community Baby Shower visit: bit.ly/ellisco-communitybabyshowerBarton County Health Department and Kansas Children’s Services League Healthy Families will be co-hosting the Barton County Community Baby Shower on Thursday April 24, 2025, from 4 to 6:30 pm. This event is at an indoor location this year at the Great Bend Events Center. Over20 different organizations will be providing information for attendees. Door prize drawings will be held during the event. Safe sleep demonstrations will be presented throughout the event. Pregnant women or those with infants 6 months of age and under who complete the safe sleep pre- and post-test as well as the safe sleep demonstration will receive a portable crib and sleep sack until supplies run out. We will also be providing a car seat check lane in the parking lot. Certified Car Seat Technicians are available to teach attendees to properly install car seats. Technicians can also check already installed car seats to make sure they are installed properly. Tdap vaccine will be available to pregnant women or caregivers to protect newborns from pertussis. Nurses will be available to check immunization records for attendees and make recommendations if vaccines are due.Come check out the local resources for new families at the Great Bend Events Center on Thursday, April 24, from 4 to 6:30 pm.The KIDS Network is a nonprofit agency serving individuals who have been touched by the tragedy of infant death or SIDS in Kansas and those individuals or organizations who strive to reduce the risk of infant deaths by providing supportive services, community education, professional training and supporting associated research.Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or MONIQUEK@KSU.EDU. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Community baby showers

Although the industry has come a long way when it comes to farm safety and a decline to injuries by about 60%. The rate of fatalities of children dying in farm accidents has stayed fairly steady. Every three days, a child dies in an ag-related incident, and each day, 33 children are injured. Says farm safety expert Barbara Lee with the Nationals Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. “I think the most revealing thing is that for both injuries and deaths, more than half of them occur to kids who are not working – they are just bystanders in the farm environment.”

In an effort to mitigate agricultural injuries and fatalities to young workers in agriculture. Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts and counties will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture (HOSTA) or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will be held at Hoxie Implement, 933 Oak Ave. Hoxie, Kansas. Many thanks to Outdoor Bank for providing the lunch and refreshments and to Thunder Linner Memorial Fund for helping sponsor the training manuals.

In a collaboration with businesses, state and county agencies. K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more. The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents, and in some instances even when working on the family farm.

Participants must complete some assignments before attending the training on the 26th. To obtain this information and to pay the $10 registration fee by Tuesday, April 22nd. You will need to visit one of the following K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices – Twin Creeks 785-421-3411, Golden Prairie 785-673-4805, Phillips-Rooks 785-425-6851, Cottonwood District 785-628-9430 and Thomas County Extension 785-460-4582.

Some Extension Offices may provide transportation to the training, don’t delay and register by Friday, April 22 for the Tractor &amp; Farm Machinery Safety Course for youth 14 - 15 years of age to be held in Hoxie on Saturday, April 26.

<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>Although the industry has come a long way when it comes to farm safety and a decline to injuries by about 60%. The rate of fatalities of children dying in farm accidents has stayed fairly steady. Every three days, a child dies in an ag-related incident, and each day, 33 children are injured. Says farm safety expert Barbara Lee with the Nationals Children’s Center for Rural and Agricultural Health and Safety. “I think the most revealing thing is that for both injuries and deaths, more than half of them occur to kids who are not working – they are just bystanders in the farm environment.”In an effort to mitigate agricultural injuries and fatalities to young workers in agriculture. Several K-State Research &amp; Extension Districts and counties will be offering a Hazardous Occupation Safety Training in Agriculture (HOSTA) or Tractor and Farm Safety Course for youth on Saturday, April 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It will be held at Hoxie Implement, 933 Oak Ave. Hoxie, Kansas. Many thanks to Outdoor Bank for providing the lunch and refreshments and to Thunder Linner Memorial Fund for helping sponsor the training manuals.In a collaboration with businesses, state and county agencies. K-State Research &amp; Extension Agents will teach this course covering farm and machinery safety, including proper tractor operation and maintenance, grain safety, implement use safety, livestock safety and more. The United States Department of Labor requires youth 14 – 15 years of age attend this safety training in order to work on a farm for someone other than their parents, and in some instances even when working on the family farm.Participants must complete some assignments before attending the training on the 26th. To obtain this information and to pay the $10 registration fee by Tuesday, April 22nd. You will need to visit one of the following K-State Research &amp; Extension Offices – Twin Creeks 785-421-3411, Golden Prairie 785-673-4805, Phillips-Rooks 785-425-6851, Cottonwood District 785-628-9430 and Thomas County Extension 785-460-4582.Some Extension Offices may provide transportation to the training, don’t delay and register by Friday, April 22 for the Tractor &amp; Farm Machinery Safety Course for youth 14 - 15 years of age to be held in Hoxie on Saturday, April 26.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: Tractor & farm safety training in agriculture

We often associate 4-H projects with the county fair but there is so much more to the 4-H year!

The 4-H year begins in October and youth select several projects to explore and increase their knowledge and skills. During winter months, this project work can involve working with a beef or swine animal to begin growing, learning about health, and start handling the animal so that it is familiar with the 4-H member. Project work for the foods project may involve learning new skills such as measuring or using a sharp knife, and helping make meals for the family. Photography members can have incredible opportunities to experiment with light, shadows, and composition with the variety of weather that Kansas provides! Additionally, club members are taking on new leadership roles in their club and improving their communication skills at each meeting.

As we move into spring, livestock projects such as sheep and goats take off as those animals are born or purchased and youth will be learning about nutrition, animal health, and showmanship skills. Photography becomes even more fun as 4-H youth can explore subjects such as animals, insects, or landscapes as we can spend more time outside. This is the time that horticulture projects really get busy as youth work on preparing garden space and selecting seeds or plants.

This past Friday, 4-H members from seven counties gathered at Great Bend High School for Regional 4-H Day. Each participant was the top placing individual or group in a variety of categories from club skits to project talks to public speaking. Preparing for their local event requires good preparation and planning, as well as a lot of practice as they improve their communication skills about a topic important to the individual youth.

Throughout the year, youth learn record keeping by working on Project Records which include setting goals, learning opportunities, project work, and financial records.

Communication, Leadership, and Community Engagement are all 4-H project areas but there is a piece of each of these in every 4-H project! These are lifetime

skills that help youth be good family members, good employees, and good community members.

<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>We often associate 4-H projects with the county fair but there is so much more to the 4-H year!The 4-H year begins in October and youth select several projects to explore and increase their knowledge and skills. During winter months, this project work can involve working with a beef or swine animal to begin growing, learning about health, and start handling the animal so that it is familiar with the 4-H member. Project work for the foods project may involve learning new skills such as measuring or using a sharp knife, and helping make meals for the family. Photography members can have incredible opportunities to experiment with light, shadows, and composition with the variety of weather that Kansas provides! Additionally, club members are taking on new leadership roles in their club and improving their communication skills at each meeting.As we move into spring, livestock projects such as sheep and goats take off as those animals are born or purchased and youth will be learning about nutrition, animal health, and showmanship skills. Photography becomes even more fun as 4-H youth can explore subjects such as animals, insects, or landscapes as we can spend more time outside. This is the time that horticulture projects really get busy as youth work on preparing garden space and selecting seeds or plants.This past Friday, 4-H members from seven counties gathered at Great Bend High School for Regional 4-H Day. Each participant was the top placing individual or group in a variety of categories from club skits to project talks to public speaking. Preparing for their local event requires good preparation and planning, as well as a lot of practice as they improve their communication skills about a topic important to the individual youth.Throughout the year, youth learn record keeping by working on Project Records which include setting goals, learning opportunities, project work, and financial records.Communication, Leadership, and Community Engagement are all 4-H project areas but there is a piece of each of these in every 4-H project! These are lifetimeskills that help youth be good family members, good employees, and good community members.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: Life skills all year

Our Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program, which launched in January, includes nutrition workshops that are open to the public. Are you looking to make healthier nutrition choices? Unsure where to start? Small changes tend to be more sustainable than large, drastic shifts, and once these habits are established, you can build on them over time.

We have three upcoming nutrition programs left:

· Shake off Excess Sodium: Learn about the impact of sodium on health and discover which foods are high in sodium and which are healthier alternatives.

· Cooking with Herbs and Spices: Explore how to enhance the flavor of your meals without relying on salt.

· Heart Smart Eating When Out and About: Gain useful tips for navigating dining out and making heart-healthy choices.

Each session includes a food demonstration, allowing you to see how to prepare these nutritious meals and taste them for yourself. Healthy eating can be flavorful and exciting!

We’d love for you to join us! More details are below.

Event Details Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm Location: 601 Main St., Hays, KS Dates:

<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>Our Hypertension Awareness and Prevention Program, which launched in January, includes nutrition workshops that are open to the public. Are you looking to make healthier nutrition choices? Unsure where to start? Small changes tend to be more sustainable than large, drastic shifts, and once these habits are established, you can build on them over time.We have three upcoming nutrition programs left:· Shake off Excess Sodium: Learn about the impact of sodium on health and discover which foods are high in sodium and which are healthier alternatives.· Cooking with Herbs and Spices: Explore how to enhance the flavor of your meals without relying on salt.· Heart Smart Eating When Out and About: Gain useful tips for navigating dining out and making heart-healthy choices.Each session includes a food demonstration, allowing you to see how to prepare these nutritious meals and taste them for yourself. Healthy eating can be flavorful and exciting!We’d love for you to join us! More details are below.Event Details Time: 6:00 - 7:00 pm Location: 601 Main St., Hays, KS Dates:· March 25 · April 29 · May 27Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KOERNER: Nutrition workshops

This summer, thousands of Kansas teenagers will begin their first job working for a farmer or rancher. For those that are ages 14 or 15, they must complete a tractor safety course in order to be legally employed. A thirteen-year-old may enroll in the training if turning 14 before the next year’s class is offered, but the certificate will not be issued until their fourteenth birthday.

To help prepare some of those youth for the upcoming work season. The Midway district, along with the collaboration of the Cottonwood extension district, will be hosting an in-person tractor safety class on April 5 starting at 8:15 am at the Ellsworth Carrico Implement location 1104 E 8th St, Ellsworth, KS 67439.

This course will meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hazardous Occupations Order for Agriculture (HOOA). The HOOA regulations state that youth 14 and 15 years of age who wish to work as a hired employee for someone other than a parent or legal guardian and operate a farm tractor that is 20 HP or greater must successfully pass a tractor safety training program.

The course will be held on Saturday, April 5, at Ellsworth Carrico Implement starting at 8:15 am. The cost of the program is 15 dollars to cover the cost of materials for the course. Those wanting to enroll should visit and complete the “Tractor Safety Registration Form.” Enrollment is due by Friday, March 28 for the Ellsworth location.

Other tractor safety courses will be held at later dates April 26,&nbsp;Beloit, KS, at Carrico Implement May 22,&nbsp;Solomon, KS, at KanEquip

Prospective students can check availability and ask questions prior to registering by calling &nbsp;or emailing Extension Agents Craig Dinkel, Clinton Laflin or Alicia Boor. Craig and Clint can be reached by phone at 785-472-4442, or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cadinkel@ksu.edu">cadinkel@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cllaflin@ksu.edu">cllaflin@ksu.edu</a>. Alicia Boor can be reached by phone at 620-793-1910, or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>.

<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>This summer, thousands of Kansas teenagers will begin their first job working for a farmer or rancher. For those that are ages 14 or 15, they must complete a tractor safety course in order to be legally employed. A thirteen-year-old may enroll in the training if turning 14 before the next year’s class is offered, but the certificate will not be issued until their fourteenth birthday.To help prepare some of those youth for the upcoming work season. The Midway district, along with the collaboration of the Cottonwood extension district, will be hosting an in-person tractor safety class on April 5 starting at 8:15 am at the Ellsworth Carrico Implement location 1104 E 8th St, Ellsworth, KS 67439.This course will meet the requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Hazardous Occupations Order for Agriculture (HOOA). The HOOA regulations state that youth 14 and 15 years of age who wish to work as a hired employee for someone other than a parent or legal guardian and operate a farm tractor that is 20 HP or greater must successfully pass a tractor safety training program.The course will be held on Saturday, April 5, at Ellsworth Carrico Implement starting at 8:15 am. The cost of the program is 15 dollars to cover the cost of materials for the course. Those wanting to enroll should visit and complete the “Tractor Safety Registration Form.” Enrollment is due by Friday, March 28 for the Ellsworth location.Other tractor safety courses will be held at later dates April 26,&nbsp;Beloit, KS, at Carrico Implement May 22,&nbsp;Solomon, KS, at KanEquipProspective students can check availability and ask questions prior to registering by calling &nbsp;or emailing Extension Agents Craig Dinkel, Clinton Laflin or Alicia Boor. Craig and Clint can be reached by phone at 785-472-4442, or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cadinkel@ksu.edu">cadinkel@ksu.edu</a>,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:cllaflin@ksu.edu">cllaflin@ksu.edu</a>. Alicia Boor can be reached by phone at 620-793-1910, or email,&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;K-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: Tractor safety classes offered in Ellsworth

Alfalfa weevil eggs are laid inside alfalfa stems in the fall and spring. Larvae feed on terminal and upper plant leaves early in the spring. Resulting in damage occurring before the first cutting.

Alfalfa weevil degree days are a great way to estimate what might be going on in the field and serve as a useful tool to know when to time scouting. Alfalfa weevil eggs begin hatching after 300 degree days have accumulated. Since we cannot determine if eggs present were laid the previous fall or the current spring, in Kansas, scouting should start after 180 degree days have accumulated starting from January 1.

How do I know how many degree days have accumulated?

For the most up-to-date alfalfa weevil degree day accumulations, visit the Kansas Mesonet Degree Days Calculator https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/degreedays/ then find the Mesonet weather station closest to you--click onto it, then click onto Alfalfa Weevil and click submit. That will show you the Alfalfa Weevil Growing Degrees accumulation. The Hays Mesonet has 167 degree days accumulation at the time of this writing.

For a complete guide to alfalfa weevil management recommendations, please refer to the upcoming K-State Research &amp; Extension publication 2025 Alfalfa Insect Pest Management Guide that will be available online soon. Just google it and you should find it.

Be aware of insecticide resistance - while warmer spring temperatures allow for faster alfalfa weevil development, be aware that dramatic temperature drops can slow down alfalfa growth, making the plants unable to keep up with feeding damage. Treatment may be warranted in shorter fields between 3 and 7 inches tall when feeding is evident on the top inch of growth and 1 to 2 larvae are present. If a field is treated, it is important to verify that the expected amount of control was achieved. In 2020, populations of alfalfa weevil resistant to lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior II w/Zeon Tech) were verified in northwest and southwest Kansas and Oklahoma. While this resistance has not appeared to become a widespread problem for Kansas producers, be aware and after application continue to scout fields. Oklahoma continues to have resistance statewide. Numerous products are available for alfalfa weevil control in Kansas. When making management decisions, it is important to rotate modes of action, i.e. pyrethroid and organophosphate, this is one way to slow down the development of resistance. For a comprehensive list and description of all currently recognized insecticide modes of action, consult https://irac-online.org

<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>Alfalfa weevil eggs are laid inside alfalfa stems in the fall and spring. Larvae feed on terminal and upper plant leaves early in the spring. Resulting in damage occurring before the first cutting.Alfalfa weevil degree days are a great way to estimate what might be going on in the field and serve as a useful tool to know when to time scouting. Alfalfa weevil eggs begin hatching after 300 degree days have accumulated. Since we cannot determine if eggs present were laid the previous fall or the current spring, in Kansas, scouting should start after 180 degree days have accumulated starting from January 1.How do I know how many degree days have accumulated?For the most up-to-date alfalfa weevil degree day accumulations, visit the Kansas Mesonet Degree Days Calculator https://mesonet.k-state.edu/agriculture/degreedays/ then find the Mesonet weather station closest to you--click onto it, then click onto Alfalfa Weevil and click submit. That will show you the Alfalfa Weevil Growing Degrees accumulation. The Hays Mesonet has 167 degree days accumulation at the time of this writing.For a complete guide to alfalfa weevil management recommendations, please refer to the upcoming K-State Research &amp; Extension publication 2025 Alfalfa Insect Pest Management Guide that will be available online soon. Just google it and you should find it.Be aware of insecticide resistance - while warmer spring temperatures allow for faster alfalfa weevil development, be aware that dramatic temperature drops can slow down alfalfa growth, making the plants unable to keep up with feeding damage. Treatment may be warranted in shorter fields between 3 and 7 inches tall when feeding is evident on the top inch of growth and 1 to 2 larvae are present. If a field is treated, it is important to verify that the expected amount of control was achieved. In 2020, populations of alfalfa weevil resistant to lambda-cyhalothrin (Warrior II w/Zeon Tech) were verified in northwest and southwest Kansas and Oklahoma. While this resistance has not appeared to become a widespread problem for Kansas producers, be aware and after application continue to scout fields. Oklahoma continues to have resistance statewide. Numerous products are available for alfalfa weevil control in Kansas. When making management decisions, it is important to rotate modes of action, i.e. pyrethroid and organophosphate, this is one way to slow down the development of resistance. For a comprehensive list and description of all currently recognized insecticide modes of action, consult https://irac-online.orgOne update to control options to be aware of was in 2024 a reversal of the EPA’s ruling to ban chlorpyrifos (Lorsban and others). Following that, the EPA issued a technical correction in which 11 special uses of chlorpyriphos were allowed. Among the 11 special uses pertinent to Kansas are alfalfa, cotton, soybean, and winter wheat.If you have any questions contact your local county or district extension office. Information provided by Anthony Zukoff, K-State Extension Entomologist.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.