Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.

Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.

Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotline&nbsp;at 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.

Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are additional resources:

&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/">https://thecentergb.org/</a>

<a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/"></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.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>Suicide is a preventable mental health crisis. As of 2022, Kansas ranked 17th&nbsp;in the nation for suicides. It was also the second leading cause of death for ages 10-44. And sadly overall, it is the 10th leading cause of death in our State. Every person knows someone that has either attempted or competed a suicide. With work to destigmatize mental health problems surrounding suicide, we can make inroads to reduce both attempted and completed suicides.Knowing the signs someone is struggling is an important first step. On many occasions, a change in behavior or lack of interest in things they normally enjoy are key indicators.&nbsp; Someone who is struggling may also be anxious or worried. They may mention that they are unhappy or seem quieter or more withdrawn than normal. They may be sleeping more than normal, or are having issues with sleep. They may talk about wanting to die or that life would be better off without them. They may be giving personal items away, and expressing wanting it all to end. These are all major indicators that a person may be suicidal and may need immediate help.Whether this is for you, or for someone you know, remembering ways to get help are so important. Asking a friend or loved one about suicide will NOT put the thought into their head or increase their risk of dying by suicide.&nbsp;If you or someone you know has mentioned or is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors and need assistance, please call the National Crisis and Suicide Hotline&nbsp;at 988. You can use this number to call (or text) and the hotline is staffed 24/7. You or your loved ones do not have to be actively suicidal to call or text this number. But, if you are in a mental health crisis and in of need of assistance, the hotline is definitely there for you.Everyone has an opportunity to help prevent suicide. If interested in suicide prevention training opportunities, such as Question, Persuade, Refer: Suicide Prevention&nbsp;(QPR) or Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), please contact me at 620-793-1910, or by email at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;and I can help you get trainings set up.&nbsp;&nbsp;Here are additional resources:National Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a target="_blank" href="https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/">https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.sprc.org/">https://www.sprc.org/</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention">https://www.samhsa.gov/childrens-awareness-day/past-events/2019/resources-suicide-prevention</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;State Resources&nbsp;<ul>
 <li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas">https://www.sprc.org/states/kansas</a> &nbsp;</li><li><a target="_blank" href="https://www.ksphq.org/">https://www.ksphq.org/</a> &nbsp;</li>
 </ul>&nbsp;Local Resources&nbsp;·&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; High Plains Mental Health Center.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://hpmhc.com/">https://hpmhc.com/</a><ul>
 <li>The Center for Counseling and Consultation. 24/7 Crisis line –620-792-2544 or 800-875-8544&nbsp;</li>
 </ul><a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/">https://thecentergb.org/</a><a target="_blank" href="https://thecentergb.org/"></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.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: Suicide is a preventable crisis

Announcement that the Conservation Awards Program will again be held in this county was received today by Alicia Boor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent representing Barton County, who has been asked to serve as chairman of a committee to select candidates for awards.

This program is being sponsored by the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA). This year the KBA, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism are excited to announce seven award categories including Energy Conservation, Water Quality, Water Conservation, Soil Conservation, Windbreaks, Grasslands, and Wildlife Habitat.

The purpose of this program is to stimulate a greater interest in the conservation of the agricultural and natural resources of Kansas by giving recognition to those farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. Last year 197 awards were made to Kansas producers and landowners for their efforts.

Nominations can be made by any person in the county. They should be sent to the Alicia Boor, Cottonwood District at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu by October 1, 2023. Please visit the following K-State Research and Extension website for more information:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension</a>

<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension"></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.

<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>Announcement that the Conservation Awards Program will again be held in this county was received today by Alicia Boor, Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent representing Barton County, who has been asked to serve as chairman of a committee to select candidates for awards.This program is being sponsored by the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA). This year the KBA, K-State Research and Extension, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism are excited to announce seven award categories including Energy Conservation, Water Quality, Water Conservation, Soil Conservation, Windbreaks, Grasslands, and Wildlife Habitat.The purpose of this program is to stimulate a greater interest in the conservation of the agricultural and natural resources of Kansas by giving recognition to those farmers and landowners who have made outstanding progress in practicing conservation on their farms. Last year 197 awards were made to Kansas producers and landowners for their efforts.Nominations can be made by any person in the county. They should be sent to the Alicia Boor, Cottonwood District at 620-793-1910 or aboor@ksu.edu by October 1, 2023. Please visit the following K-State Research and Extension website for more information:&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension">http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension</a><a target="_blank" href="http://www.agronomy.k-state.edu/extension"></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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

BOOR: Conservation Awards Program

Early last spring, I was giddy to plant the garden. We picked out a variety of crops from watermelon, okra, and yellow squash, to tomatoes, and cauliflower. However, the ever-changing Kansas weather seemed to get the best of it. From the start, high winds, hail, and heat made it difficult for the garden to get established. By June, the only plant producing was the hearty yellow squash. And when I say hearty, I mean it. The squash didn’t seem to mind the harsh weather. In fact, it overtook half of the garden and we are still pawning off dozens of the bright yellow vegetables weekly.

So, if you’re anything like me, maybe you haven’t had the best garden this year, but you’re grateful to harvest a few crops so far. Perhaps you’ve had an abundance of summer squash or zucchini and you’re looking for new ways to prevent it from going to waste. After all, squash is great for you! It’s full of vitamin C, potassium, beta carotene, and fiber.

To preserve squash, one option is to freeze it. In fact, freezing it can preserve it for 10 months. This way, you can reap the benefits of it later this year. To freeze squash, first choose young squash with tender skins. Wash and cut into ½-inch slices. Blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes; cool in ice water for at least 3 minutes. Drain and package into freezer bags or freezer containers, leaving ½-inch headspace.

· Grated zucchini (for baking): Choose young tender zucchini. Wash and grate. Steam blanch in small quantities 1 to 2 minutes until translucent. Pack in measured amounts into containers, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cool by placing the containers in ice water. Seal and freeze. If watery when thawed, discard the liquid before using the zucchini.

Another way to save zucchini or summer squash is to pickle it, but always make sure to follow a tested recipe. For example, the National Center for Home Preservation website provides safe recipes for pickling squash, and note that it is not recommended to can squash.

· To pickle squash, it may be diced or shredded by hand instead of a food processor. In any recipe, a variety of onion is acceptable, and celery salt may be substituted for celery seed for a taste preference. Also, fresh relish can be enjoyed without processing, but fresh or opened jars should be refrigerated. For best quality and safety, consume refrigerated pickled squash within 7 days.

For immediate use, there are hundreds of ways to prepare the versatile vegetable. Sautee or grill it for a side dish, make zucchini boats, throw it in a stir fry, or breakfast scramble. Try it in a casserole or vegetable lasagna. Hide it in a pasta dish by blending it into the sauce or cook it into a soup. Dice it finely and mix it into a salad. Alternatively, create a treat by baking it in a quick bread!

If you’re anything like me, you don’t have a shortage of squash. Luckily, there isn’t a shortage of ways to prepare it! So, be creative this season. You might find your new favorite way to soak up the nutrients of squash and prevent your hard work in the garden from going to waste.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Early last spring, I was giddy to plant the garden. We picked out a variety of crops from watermelon, okra, and yellow squash, to tomatoes, and cauliflower. However, the ever-changing Kansas weather seemed to get the best of it. From the start, high winds, hail, and heat made it difficult for the garden to get established. By June, the only plant producing was the hearty yellow squash. And when I say hearty, I mean it. The squash didn’t seem to mind the harsh weather. In fact, it overtook half of the garden and we are still pawning off dozens of the bright yellow vegetables weekly.So, if you’re anything like me, maybe you haven’t had the best garden this year, but you’re grateful to harvest a few crops so far. Perhaps you’ve had an abundance of summer squash or zucchini and you’re looking for new ways to prevent it from going to waste. After all, squash is great for you! It’s full of vitamin C, potassium, beta carotene, and fiber.To preserve squash, one option is to freeze it. In fact, freezing it can preserve it for 10 months. This way, you can reap the benefits of it later this year. To freeze squash, first choose young squash with tender skins. Wash and cut into ½-inch slices. Blanch in boiling water for 3 minutes; cool in ice water for at least 3 minutes. Drain and package into freezer bags or freezer containers, leaving ½-inch headspace.· Grated zucchini (for baking): Choose young tender zucchini. Wash and grate. Steam blanch in small quantities 1 to 2 minutes until translucent. Pack in measured amounts into containers, leaving ½-inch headspace. Cool by placing the containers in ice water. Seal and freeze. If watery when thawed, discard the liquid before using the zucchini.Another way to save zucchini or summer squash is to pickle it, but always make sure to follow a tested recipe. For example, the National Center for Home Preservation website provides safe recipes for pickling squash, and note that it is not recommended to can squash.· To pickle squash, it may be diced or shredded by hand instead of a food processor. In any recipe, a variety of onion is acceptable, and celery salt may be substituted for celery seed for a taste preference. Also, fresh relish can be enjoyed without processing, but fresh or opened jars should be refrigerated. For best quality and safety, consume refrigerated pickled squash within 7 days.For immediate use, there are hundreds of ways to prepare the versatile vegetable. Sautee or grill it for a side dish, make zucchini boats, throw it in a stir fry, or breakfast scramble. Try it in a casserole or vegetable lasagna. Hide it in a pasta dish by blending it into the sauce or cook it into a soup. Dice it finely and mix it into a salad. Alternatively, create a treat by baking it in a quick bread!If you’re anything like me, you don’t have a shortage of squash. Luckily, there isn’t a shortage of ways to prepare it! So, be creative this season. You might find your new favorite way to soak up the nutrients of squash and prevent your hard work in the garden from going to waste.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: A surplus of squash - get creative in the kitchen

Speaking, singing, and making other sounds require many parts of your body to work together. Your brain thinks of ideas. Your lungs move air in and out. Your vocal cords vibrate. Your mouth and nose help shape sound.

“Our whole body participates in the production of voice, speech, and breathing. So we can get a lot of information about our health from them,” says Dr. Yael Bensoussan, a voice researcher at the University of South Florida.

Many conditions can impact the various body parts involved in sound production. These include depression, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, lung problems, and even cancer. Measuring voice, speech, and breathing patterns could help diagnose health problems.

Researchers are testing ways to use apps and other tools to let people measure such information at home. For example, a recent study showed that a computer program could identify patients with Parkinson’s disease by their breathing patterns during sleep.

“Voice, speech, and breathing are easy to access, inexpensive, and non-invasive to measure,” Bensoussan says. “For example, for a test for lung function, you currently have to go to a hospital and blow into a machine. Then you need someone to analyze that test. Just recording your voice or breathing sounds on your phone would be a lot cheaper and easier.”

Speech pattern analysis has shown promise for diagnosing impairments in memory or thinking abilities, and mental health conditions like depression. The way people speak, the tone of voice, and even the words used can all change when someone develops depression, explains Dr. Gari Clifford, a biomedical engineer at Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology.

Clifford’s team is trying to use speech patterns and facial expression changes to catch depression early in people with dementia. They are now testing their technology in certain tablet and smartphone apps to track changes in people’s daily health. This could help doctors see the effects of depression treatments in real time and change them quickly if needed. It could also provide early warning that someone’s health is declining.

Other research teams are testing speech analysis to screen for additional mental health problems, like anxiety. They’re also looking at speech patterns to help diagnose diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) early.

Bensoussan’s team is building the world’s largest collection of voice and speech samples related to health information. They’re including people from a wide range of backgrounds and health conditions. They hope this will aid researchers in building new tools for diagnosis.

Voice and speech analysis tools will eventually have to take people’s whole health into account, just like a doctor would, Bensoussan says. “Multiple different diseases can cause the same voice changes. For example, for a hoarse voice, someone with cancer of the throat and someone with laryngitis can sound exactly the same,” she explains.

You can’t yet talk into your phone and get a full health report. But Bensoussan encourages people to pay attention to changes in their voice and speech. “If you have a voice change for more than two to three weeks, it may indicate an issue with your health,” she says.

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>Speaking, singing, and making other sounds require many parts of your body to work together. Your brain thinks of ideas. Your lungs move air in and out. Your vocal cords vibrate. Your mouth and nose help shape sound.“Our whole body participates in the production of voice, speech, and breathing. So we can get a lot of information about our health from them,” says Dr. Yael Bensoussan, a voice researcher at the University of South Florida.Many conditions can impact the various body parts involved in sound production. These include depression, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, lung problems, and even cancer. Measuring voice, speech, and breathing patterns could help diagnose health problems.Researchers are testing ways to use apps and other tools to let people measure such information at home. For example, a recent study showed that a computer program could identify patients with Parkinson’s disease by their breathing patterns during sleep.“Voice, speech, and breathing are easy to access, inexpensive, and non-invasive to measure,” Bensoussan says. “For example, for a test for lung function, you currently have to go to a hospital and blow into a machine. Then you need someone to analyze that test. Just recording your voice or breathing sounds on your phone would be a lot cheaper and easier.”Speech pattern analysis has shown promise for diagnosing impairments in memory or thinking abilities, and mental health conditions like depression. The way people speak, the tone of voice, and even the words used can all change when someone develops depression, explains Dr. Gari Clifford, a biomedical engineer at Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology.Clifford’s team is trying to use speech patterns and facial expression changes to catch depression early in people with dementia. They are now testing their technology in certain tablet and smartphone apps to track changes in people’s daily health. This could help doctors see the effects of depression treatments in real time and change them quickly if needed. It could also provide early warning that someone’s health is declining.Other research teams are testing speech analysis to screen for additional mental health problems, like anxiety. They’re also looking at speech patterns to help diagnose diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) early.Bensoussan’s team is building the world’s largest collection of voice and speech samples related to health information. They’re including people from a wide range of backgrounds and health conditions. They hope this will aid researchers in building new tools for diagnosis.Voice and speech analysis tools will eventually have to take people’s whole health into account, just like a doctor would, Bensoussan says. “Multiple different diseases can cause the same voice changes. For example, for a hoarse voice, someone with cancer of the throat and someone with laryngitis can sound exactly the same,” she explains.You can’t yet talk into your phone and get a full health report. But Bensoussan encourages people to pay attention to changes in their voice and speech. “If you have a voice change for more than two to three weeks, it may indicate an issue with your health,” she says.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

KOERNER: Tracking voice, speech and breathing for health

Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.

The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini.

“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” she said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”

Then, she says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.

“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Domenghini said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”

Preparing the soil Once thatch is under control, Domenghini said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, she suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.

“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” she said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”

By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.

“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Domenghini said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”

A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.

“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Domenghini said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”

Domenghini noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1698681527025.jpeg" alt="written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Alicia Boor - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Cool-season grasses, like the Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue lawns common to many parts of Kansas, have had about enough of summer.The state’s high temperatures and sporadic rainfall often cause cool-season varieties to become thin by summer’s end. September typically signals a good time to replenish those stands, said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini.“Start by mowing the grass short (1 to 1 ½ inches) and removing the clippings,” she said. “This will make it easier to achieve good seed-soil contact and increase the amount of light that will reach the young seedlings.”Then, she says, check the lawn’s layer of thatch – an organic layer of dead and living shoots, stems and roots that develops between the zone of green vegetation and the soil surface.“Normally, we’d want ¼ inch of thatch or less when overseeding,” Domenghini said. “If the thatch layer is ¾ inch or more, it is usually easier to use a sod cutter to remove it and start over with a new lawn. A power rake can be used to reduce a thatch layter that is less than ¾ inch, but more than ¼ inch.”Preparing the soil Once thatch is under control, Domenghini said homeowners can use a hand rake to roughen up soil in small areas. For larger areas, she suggests either a verticut machine or core aerator.“A verticut machine has solid vertical blades that can be set to cut furrows in the soil,” she said. “A slit seeder is a verticut machine with a seed hopper added so the soil prep and seeding operation are combined.”By contrast, a core aerator literally punches holes in the soil, depositing the cores on the surface of the ground.“Each hole produces an excellent environment for seed germination and growth,” Domenghini said. “Make 3-4 passes with the core aerator to ensure enough holes for the seed.”A core aerator also reduces the amount of water needed to germinate the seed. Aeration increases the water infiltration rate, decreases compaction and increases the amount of oxygen in the soil.“Of the three methods (for large areas), I prefer the slit seeder for obtaining good seed to soil contact,” Domenghini said. “However, if watering is difficult, core aeration may be a better option.”Domenghini noted that fertilizer should be applied to the lawn at rates suggested on the bag, regardless of which overseeding method is used.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity employer and provider. Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts, and U.S. Department of Agriculture Cooperating.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

BOOR: Tending to grasses in September

Did you know that 48 million cases of foodborne diseases cause Americans to become ill every year?

On the bright side, the U.S. is among the safest food supply systems in the world, and to keep food safe, we recognize September as Food Safety Education Month. So, let's take a few minutes to review food handling techniques to keep you safe and decrease the number of foodborne illnesses each year.

There are four easy steps to remember when preparing food: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.

1. Clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. Make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before handling food or changing tasks. Wash cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and, countertops with hot soapy water after preparing each item.

2. Separate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs from other foods. Items that require the highest cooking temperature should be put on the bottom of the fridge. Use color-coded cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination between raw meats and ready-to-eat foods.

3. Cook. Color and texture don’t tell the whole story regarding safety. A thermometer is the only way to ensure foods are cooked to a safe internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria.

4. Chill. Refrigerate foods within 2 hours of cooking or purchasing, and divide large amounts of leftovers into shallow containers to cool quickly. Never thaw food at room temperature; only defrost food in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave.

Symptoms of foodborne illnesses can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and headache. These symptoms usually occur within 1 to 3 days of eating contaminated food.

Most healthy people will recover from foodborne illness quickly while others can develop chronic, life-threatening health conditions. People at great risk include those with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, young children, and older adults. To keep you and your loved ones safe, remember to practice safe food handling this September and all year long.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Did you know that 48 million cases of foodborne diseases cause Americans to become ill every year?On the bright side, the U.S. is among the safest food supply systems in the world, and to keep food safe, we recognize September as Food Safety Education Month. So, let's take a few minutes to review food handling techniques to keep you safe and decrease the number of foodborne illnesses each year.There are four easy steps to remember when preparing food: Clean, Separate, Cook, and Chill.1. Clean. Wash hands and surfaces often. Make sure to wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before handling food or changing tasks. Wash cutting boards, utensils, dishes, and, countertops with hot soapy water after preparing each item.2. Separate. Separate raw meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs from other foods. Items that require the highest cooking temperature should be put on the bottom of the fridge. Use color-coded cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination between raw meats and ready-to-eat foods.3. Cook. Color and texture don’t tell the whole story regarding safety. A thermometer is the only way to ensure foods are cooked to a safe internal temperature to destroy harmful bacteria.4. Chill. Refrigerate foods within 2 hours of cooking or purchasing, and divide large amounts of leftovers into shallow containers to cool quickly. Never thaw food at room temperature; only defrost food in the refrigerator, cold water, or microwave.Symptoms of foodborne illnesses can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, and headache. These symptoms usually occur within 1 to 3 days of eating contaminated food.Most healthy people will recover from foodborne illness quickly while others can develop chronic, life-threatening health conditions. People at great risk include those with a weakened immune system, pregnant women, young children, and older adults. To keep you and your loved ones safe, remember to practice safe food handling this September and all year long.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

WINKEL: National Food Safety Month

I came across a poem several years ago that I pull out and review from time to time. It especially hits me as school activities are in full swing and so many other priorities can hold our view. I’d like to share it with you today.

Little Eyes Upon You, author unknown

There are little eyes upon you And they’re watching you night and day There are little ears that quickly take In every word you say. There are little hands all eager To do anything you do, And a little person who’s dreaming of the day They’ll be just like you.

You’re that little person’s idol, You’re the wisest of the wise, In their little mind about you No suspicions ever rise. They believe in you devoutly And hold all that you say and do, They will say and do it your way When they grow up just like you.

There’s a wide-eyed little person Who believes you’re always right, And their eyes are always opened And they’re watching day and night. You are setting the example Every day in all you do, For the little person who is waiting To grow up to be like you!

In a world that feels increasingly unkind, each and every one of us have the opportunity to shape how a little person will someday feel about themselves, their friends, and their community.

Do you set a good example on the sidelines of a game?

Do you set a good example when you speak about teachers, neighbors, co-workers? We don’t always agree and that is a beautiful thing! Learning to disagree respectfully and responsibly goes a long way!

Do you set a good example of kindness? Saying thank you, holding a door, or taking your turn in line are all small ways that we can impact those around us and, especially, that little person watching what we do.

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.

All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668179445671.jpeg" alt="written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Michelle Beran - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>I came across a poem several years ago that I pull out and review from time to time. It especially hits me as school activities are in full swing and so many other priorities can hold our view. I’d like to share it with you today.Little Eyes Upon You, author unknownThere are little eyes upon you And they’re watching you night and day There are little ears that quickly take In every word you say. There are little hands all eager To do anything you do, And a little person who’s dreaming of the day They’ll be just like you.You’re that little person’s idol, You’re the wisest of the wise, In their little mind about you No suspicions ever rise. They believe in you devoutly And hold all that you say and do, They will say and do it your way When they grow up just like you.There’s a wide-eyed little person Who believes you’re always right, And their eyes are always opened And they’re watching day and night. You are setting the example Every day in all you do, For the little person who is waiting To grow up to be like you!In a world that feels increasingly unkind, each and every one of us have the opportunity to shape how a little person will someday feel about themselves, their friends, and their community.Do you set a good example on the sidelines of a game?Do you set a good example when you speak about teachers, neighbors, co-workers? We don’t always agree and that is a beautiful thing! Learning to disagree respectfully and responsibly goes a long way!Do you set a good example of kindness? Saying thank you, holding a door, or taking your turn in line are all small ways that we can impact those around us and, especially, that little person watching what we do.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.All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

BERAN: Setting a good example for little ones

Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.

But there’s more to personal health than some may realize.

“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.

Research indicates that engaging in one’s community is connected to living longer and healthier.

“So,” she says, “we should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer, be involved in clubs and organizations, vote and contribute to local community improvement projects. That’s part of civic health.”

The National Conference on Citizenship, which has studied civic life for ten years, reports that communities with higher employment rates, stronger schools and more responsive governments have better health among its residents.

Civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:

· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.

· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for residents to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do people know how to voice their support for new projects or changes in ordinances? Can people participate in local city or county meetings in-person and online?

· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged and active.

“When social capital is in place – places, processes, and people – the community is stronger,” Johannes said. “Then, the overall health of the people in the community improves. And there’s research that shows that civic health matters to our physical and mental health.”

The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. Johannes said the report provides data and evidence that reveals overall community health improvements due to community-led health equity and access efforts.

The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.

Johannes said the recent report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. She said Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.

“Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live,” she said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>Most folks generally accept that maintaining good health includes an annual visit to the doctor to check their heart, teeth, ears and more.But there’s more to personal health than some may realize.“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation has done quite a bit of research over the years that affirms that a little over 50% of our overall health is related to the places that we live, learn, work, play and pray,” said Johannes, the Kansas Health Foundation’s Distinguished Professor of Community Health at Kansas State University.Research indicates that engaging in one’s community is connected to living longer and healthier.“So,” she says, “we should look for opportunities to be civically engaged, and be aware of opportunities to volunteer, be involved in clubs and organizations, vote and contribute to local community improvement projects. That’s part of civic health.”The National Conference on Citizenship, which has studied civic life for ten years, reports that communities with higher employment rates, stronger schools and more responsive governments have better health among its residents.Civic health reflects the opportunities people have to participate in their communities, and can be summed up in three areas:· Places – Healthy communities have places where people can get together formally or informally, such as festivals in a city park; or a library with extended hours.· Processes – Healthy communities make it easier for residents to have their voices heard. Some examples: Are voting processes easily understood? Do people know how to voice their support for new projects or changes in ordinances? Can people participate in local city or county meetings in-person and online?· People – In healthy communities, people get involved as volunteers and in other roles. People are socially engaged and active.“When social capital is in place – places, processes, and people – the community is stronger,” Johannes said. “Then, the overall health of the people in the community improves. And there’s research that shows that civic health matters to our physical and mental health.”The University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute annually publishes the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps for every county in the United States. Johannes said the report provides data and evidence that reveals overall community health improvements due to community-led health equity and access efforts.The yearly report includes links to information specific to Kansas counties, rating each according to such health outcomes as length of life and quality of life; and such health factors as adult smoking, obesity, physical activity and more.Johannes said the recent report includes information about the civic health of states and counties. She said Kansas is among 16 states that have more structural barriers to civic health.“Research shows that states with well-resourced civic infrastructure have more civic participation, which is tied to how well and how long we live,” she said.Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

WINKEL: Community health boosts personal health

K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District will be hosting our annual make and take pizza night in honor of National Family Day on September 23, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at our office located at 601 Main Street in Hays.

Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners. Research shows family dinners are a great way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors as reported by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Colombia University. Not only are family dinners a way to bring families together but young children can also learn valuable life skills. Cooking is an important life skill for children to learn before they grow up and are out on their own. Knowing how to plan menus, budget for food, and follow a recipe provides many skills that will help children as they become adults. Knowing how to cook meals versus heating something up from a box can also aid our children’s health. Processed foods often have many added ingredients that can lead to health issues. Having children help in the kitchen teaches them math skills and to follow directions. When children help prepare meals they tend to have more motivation to eat the meal as well. If they have taken part in preparation they are more likely to try new foods and recipes. This can be particularly helpful for picky eaters!

I want to give a shout out to our sponsors. Papa Murphy’s donates the pizza crusts and Kiwanis gives a donation to help buy toppings as well as fruit and vegetables. Thank you very much! We couldn’t hold this night without their continued support every year!

Come join us for a low cost and healthy meal that you can make with your children. Please RSVP and pay the $3 per pizza at 601 Main Street by Sept 20, 2024. We are continuing online registration this year. Use the link or QR code: https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvw

I hope to see many of you there. If you ever have any questions or would like a program about healthy eating, food safety, budgeting, or staying active, please reach out to me. You can find me at our office on Main Street or you can call or email anytime.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/11/1668522152076.jpeg" alt="written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>written by: Monique Koerner - Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>K-State Research and Extension Cottonwood District will be hosting our annual make and take pizza night in honor of National Family Day on September 23, 2024 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at our office located at 601 Main Street in Hays.Family Day is a national effort to promote family dinners. Research shows family dinners are a great way to reduce youth substance abuse and other risky behaviors as reported by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Colombia University. Not only are family dinners a way to bring families together but young children can also learn valuable life skills. Cooking is an important life skill for children to learn before they grow up and are out on their own. Knowing how to plan menus, budget for food, and follow a recipe provides many skills that will help children as they become adults. Knowing how to cook meals versus heating something up from a box can also aid our children’s health. Processed foods often have many added ingredients that can lead to health issues. Having children help in the kitchen teaches them math skills and to follow directions. When children help prepare meals they tend to have more motivation to eat the meal as well. If they have taken part in preparation they are more likely to try new foods and recipes. This can be particularly helpful for picky eaters!I want to give a shout out to our sponsors. Papa Murphy’s donates the pizza crusts and Kiwanis gives a donation to help buy toppings as well as fruit and vegetables. Thank you very much! We couldn’t hold this night without their continued support every year!Come join us for a low cost and healthy meal that you can make with your children. Please RSVP and pay the $3 per pizza at 601 Main Street by Sept 20, 2024. We are continuing online registration this year. Use the link or QR code: https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0jhSkOmNBcoOBvwI hope to see many of you there. If you ever have any questions or would like a program about healthy eating, food safety, budgeting, or staying active, please reach out to me. You can find me at our office on Main Street or you can call or email anytime.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

KOERNER: Family pizza day

Cereal rye can provide excellent weed suppression as a cover crop; however, it should be handled carefully. Cereal rye can be introduced into a wheat field by contamination of harvest or seed conditioning equipment, dry fertilizer spreaders, or drills. Seeds and pollen can also be moved by wind or other natural means.

Cereal rye is very similar to wheat in terms of life cycle, growth requirements, and appearance. There are a few features that distinguish rye from wheat. First, cereal rye is generally taller than winter wheat, and the seed heads are usually longer and thinner. Other differences require a closer look. The ligule of cereal rye does not have a fringe of hairs (winter wheat does), and cereal rye does not have prominent auricles (winter wheat does). Cereal rye seeds are longer than wheat seeds and usually shaded more yellow or green rather than red.

Chemical control in wheat is limited to herbicide-tolerant varieties (discussed later in this article). Because there are few herbicide options in crops, preventing the introduction of cereal rye into wheat fields is critical. Cleaning equipment and planting weed-free seed are two important measures. Control during other phases of the crop rotation is also important. For example, letting rye emerge during a fallow phase of the rotation and applying glyphosate and/or atrazine. Hand rouging has long been used to remove cereal rye from wheat.

Herbicide-tolerant wheat varieties - Clearfield wheat varieties allow the use of Beyond (imazamox). Imazamox is more effective on other cool-season grass weeds, and only provides suppression of cereal rye. If you choose a Clearfield variety, be sure to spray before rye tillers and use a nitrogen fertilizer (up to 50% of the spray solution). Two applications (fall and spring) will provide better control than a single application.

CoAXium wheat varieties allow the use of Aggressor (quizalofop). Quizalofop provides excellent control of cereal rye. In studies at Great Bend control was 94% or greater with 10 or 12 fl oz of Aggressor applied with either NIS or MSO in fall or spring. Quizalofop is a Group 1 herbicide that only controls grasses.

In both systems, cereal rye control will be reduced if applications are made when temperatures are below 40F during the week following application.

Reminder Control Volunteer Wheat - since we have been fortunate enough to get some much-needed moisture in the last month or so. Any volunteer wheat that has came up will need to be controlled before wheat is drilled. It is recommended to have all volunteer wheat controlled two weeks prior to any wheat being planted. To allow sufficient time for the wheat curl mites to die off. The mites preferred host plant is wheat, so any volunteer wheat around will more than likely

harbor wheat curl mites. Which are important vectors of wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), one of the most destructive wheat diseases in Kansas.

One tool in the toolbox - other than timely control of volunteer wheat, genetic resistance is also an important tool for WSMV control. Genetic resistance to wheat streak mosaic can also reduce the risk of severe disease problems. There are currently several wheat varieties adapted to Kansas that have wheat streak mosaic virus resistance. To see what those varieties are go to the July 18th issue of K-State Agronomy eUpdate.

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>Cereal rye can provide excellent weed suppression as a cover crop; however, it should be handled carefully. Cereal rye can be introduced into a wheat field by contamination of harvest or seed conditioning equipment, dry fertilizer spreaders, or drills. Seeds and pollen can also be moved by wind or other natural means.Cereal rye is very similar to wheat in terms of life cycle, growth requirements, and appearance. There are a few features that distinguish rye from wheat. First, cereal rye is generally taller than winter wheat, and the seed heads are usually longer and thinner. Other differences require a closer look. The ligule of cereal rye does not have a fringe of hairs (winter wheat does), and cereal rye does not have prominent auricles (winter wheat does). Cereal rye seeds are longer than wheat seeds and usually shaded more yellow or green rather than red.Chemical control in wheat is limited to herbicide-tolerant varieties (discussed later in this article). Because there are few herbicide options in crops, preventing the introduction of cereal rye into wheat fields is critical. Cleaning equipment and planting weed-free seed are two important measures. Control during other phases of the crop rotation is also important. For example, letting rye emerge during a fallow phase of the rotation and applying glyphosate and/or atrazine. Hand rouging has long been used to remove cereal rye from wheat.Herbicide-tolerant wheat varieties - Clearfield wheat varieties allow the use of Beyond (imazamox). Imazamox is more effective on other cool-season grass weeds, and only provides suppression of cereal rye. If you choose a Clearfield variety, be sure to spray before rye tillers and use a nitrogen fertilizer (up to 50% of the spray solution). Two applications (fall and spring) will provide better control than a single application.CoAXium wheat varieties allow the use of Aggressor (quizalofop). Quizalofop provides excellent control of cereal rye. In studies at Great Bend control was 94% or greater with 10 or 12 fl oz of Aggressor applied with either NIS or MSO in fall or spring. Quizalofop is a Group 1 herbicide that only controls grasses.In both systems, cereal rye control will be reduced if applications are made when temperatures are below 40F during the week following application.Reminder Control Volunteer Wheat - since we have been fortunate enough to get some much-needed moisture in the last month or so. Any volunteer wheat that has came up will need to be controlled before wheat is drilled. It is recommended to have all volunteer wheat controlled two weeks prior to any wheat being planted. To allow sufficient time for the wheat curl mites to die off. The mites preferred host plant is wheat, so any volunteer wheat around will more than likelyharbor wheat curl mites. Which are important vectors of wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), one of the most destructive wheat diseases in Kansas.One tool in the toolbox - other than timely control of volunteer wheat, genetic resistance is also an important tool for WSMV control. Genetic resistance to wheat streak mosaic can also reduce the risk of severe disease problems. There are currently several wheat varieties adapted to Kansas that have wheat streak mosaic virus resistance. To see what those varieties are go to the July 18th issue of K-State Agronomy eUpdate.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

CAMPBELL: Cereal rye control in wheat

As we move into the latter part of the growing season, it is time to consider late summer and fall pests as well as your plans for next year. Both stable and horn fly populations tend to decline over the dry, hot part of summer but can resurge in late summer into fall if sufficient rainfall occurs. Horn flies are found on the back and belly of the animals and stay constantly associated with the cattle host making topical insecticides (pour-ons, sprays and ear tags) effective control methods, with appropriate rotation. Stable flies in contrast feed preferentially on the legs of the animal for a short period of time (2-4 minutes), 1-2 times a day. This low contact time with the host makes chemical control difficult to achieve. Decaying hay and plant material is a primary breeding for stable flies, pay special attention to hay bale and feed wastage and surrounding crop fields.

House fly populations will continue to increase through the summer and can be a significant problem for feedlots and dairies. Minimize feed wastage spilled over bunkers and keep pens well scraped, paying special attention to areas around feed bunkers, water stations and under fence lines. Baits and traps can be useful against house flies, make sure the traps are placed away from buildings such as offices as they will attract flies to the location. Fall can also see face flies trying to enter barns and buildings for a place to overwinter. Sealing off cracks and crevices can remove these overwintering spots. If a second fall fly population boom occurs, any early season on-animal interventions applied are unlikely to still be effective this late in the season. If reapplying products within the same season, do not change insecticide group. Typing your insecticide active ingredient into this website will tell you which group it belongs to (https://iraconline.org/mode-of-action/classification-online/).

Larvae of the cattle grub should be treated in fall or early winter using oral medications or pour-ons. Treatment should not be carried out in January or February due to the potential for severe reactions. Lice populations also tend to thrive in cooler weather, watch out for patches of hair loss and rubbing, indicative of lice problems. Part the hair, especially along the neck and back of the animal and look for small cream insects about 1/16th of an inch. If large numbers of lice are observed, pour-on treatments can effectively treat lice infestation. Treatment must be repeated after two weeks to target any nits that were not killed after the first treatment.

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 we move into the latter part of the growing season, it is time to consider late summer and fall pests as well as your plans for next year. Both stable and horn fly populations tend to decline over the dry, hot part of summer but can resurge in late summer into fall if sufficient rainfall occurs. Horn flies are found on the back and belly of the animals and stay constantly associated with the cattle host making topical insecticides (pour-ons, sprays and ear tags) effective control methods, with appropriate rotation. Stable flies in contrast feed preferentially on the legs of the animal for a short period of time (2-4 minutes), 1-2 times a day. This low contact time with the host makes chemical control difficult to achieve. Decaying hay and plant material is a primary breeding for stable flies, pay special attention to hay bale and feed wastage and surrounding crop fields.House fly populations will continue to increase through the summer and can be a significant problem for feedlots and dairies. Minimize feed wastage spilled over bunkers and keep pens well scraped, paying special attention to areas around feed bunkers, water stations and under fence lines. Baits and traps can be useful against house flies, make sure the traps are placed away from buildings such as offices as they will attract flies to the location. Fall can also see face flies trying to enter barns and buildings for a place to overwinter. Sealing off cracks and crevices can remove these overwintering spots. If a second fall fly population boom occurs, any early season on-animal interventions applied are unlikely to still be effective this late in the season. If reapplying products within the same season, do not change insecticide group. Typing your insecticide active ingredient into this website will tell you which group it belongs to (https://iraconline.org/mode-of-action/classification-online/).Larvae of the cattle grub should be treated in fall or early winter using oral medications or pour-ons. Treatment should not be carried out in January or February due to the potential for severe reactions. Lice populations also tend to thrive in cooler weather, watch out for patches of hair loss and rubbing, indicative of lice problems. Part the hair, especially along the neck and back of the animal and look for small cream insects about 1/16th of an inch. If large numbers of lice are observed, pour-on treatments can effectively treat lice infestation. Treatment must be repeated after two weeks to target any nits that were not killed after the first treatment.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

BOOR: Insect control around livestock

Someone recently came into the Cottonwood Extension office with a tiny insect, asking what it is. Fortunately, it had a distinctive long snout. So that meant it was a weevil and I was able to narrow it down considerably and identify it as a rice weevil. I did get verification from J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Ct. in Hays too.

It just so happened that was the same day my newspaper article is due. Therefore, I thought I would write about pantry or stored product pests. Some of the more common pantry or kitchen insect pests are probably the Indian meal moth, sawtoothed grain beetles, and flour beetles.

Several insects, commonly referred to as pantry or kitchen pests, infest dry or stored food products in the home. Most are either beetles or moths. In the case of beetles, both the adult and larval stages may be damaging while only the larvae of moths are destructive. Infestations may be noted when these insects are found in some products, but more commonly when the adults are seen crawling or flying about the kitchen or pantry.

Since most of these insects are of tropical or semi-tropical origin, they live and breed best under warm, humid conditions – conditions often found in kitchen cupboards. Since most do not hibernate, reproduction is continuous throughout the year and populations can build up rapidly if they are left undisturbed.

Inspection - always keep in mind that many pantry pests are strong fliers and that their larvae can crawl some distance from a source of infestation. The source of infestation is usually limited to a small area such as the kitchen, or a single cabinet, or a single susceptible product. Before you attempt control, find out this source and eliminate it.

This is not always an easy job. Check all the materials mentioned as susceptible products. Do not overlook the fact that a sealed container may be infested because the lid may be loose enough to allow pantry pests.

Sterilization - it is possible to kill pantry pests by putting lightly infested packages in the refrigerator freezer compartment for a least two or three days.

Sanitation - periodically clean all shelves in storage areas. Many pantry pests can breed in food particles that spill or sift from packages and accumulate in cracks and corners. The insects can then infest food packages on the shelves later.

Buy only small quantities of foods susceptible to infestation, especially in the summer. Carefully examine these foods when you get them to be sure they are free of pests.

Whenever possible, dry foods can be stored in clean glass or metal containers with tight fitting lids. (Empty coffee cans with plastic lids make excellent storage containers.) Clean containers thoroughly before placing fresh food in them. Never leave them undisturbed for long periods of time. Storing these food products in the refrigerator or freezer will prevent infestation.

Insecticides - are not recommended for use against pantry pests.

This article is not intended to provoke panic, but just an FYI for folks to be aware of and keep in mind. If you have any questions give us a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office.

<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>Someone recently came into the Cottonwood Extension office with a tiny insect, asking what it is. Fortunately, it had a distinctive long snout. So that meant it was a weevil and I was able to narrow it down considerably and identify it as a rice weevil. I did get verification from J.P. Michaud, entomologist at the Ag Research Ct. in Hays too.It just so happened that was the same day my newspaper article is due. Therefore, I thought I would write about pantry or stored product pests. Some of the more common pantry or kitchen insect pests are probably the Indian meal moth, sawtoothed grain beetles, and flour beetles.Several insects, commonly referred to as pantry or kitchen pests, infest dry or stored food products in the home. Most are either beetles or moths. In the case of beetles, both the adult and larval stages may be damaging while only the larvae of moths are destructive. Infestations may be noted when these insects are found in some products, but more commonly when the adults are seen crawling or flying about the kitchen or pantry.Since most of these insects are of tropical or semi-tropical origin, they live and breed best under warm, humid conditions – conditions often found in kitchen cupboards. Since most do not hibernate, reproduction is continuous throughout the year and populations can build up rapidly if they are left undisturbed.Inspection - always keep in mind that many pantry pests are strong fliers and that their larvae can crawl some distance from a source of infestation. The source of infestation is usually limited to a small area such as the kitchen, or a single cabinet, or a single susceptible product. Before you attempt control, find out this source and eliminate it.This is not always an easy job. Check all the materials mentioned as susceptible products. Do not overlook the fact that a sealed container may be infested because the lid may be loose enough to allow pantry pests.Sterilization - it is possible to kill pantry pests by putting lightly infested packages in the refrigerator freezer compartment for a least two or three days.Sanitation - periodically clean all shelves in storage areas. Many pantry pests can breed in food particles that spill or sift from packages and accumulate in cracks and corners. The insects can then infest food packages on the shelves later.Buy only small quantities of foods susceptible to infestation, especially in the summer. Carefully examine these foods when you get them to be sure they are free of pests.Whenever possible, dry foods can be stored in clean glass or metal containers with tight fitting lids. (Empty coffee cans with plastic lids make excellent storage containers.) Clean containers thoroughly before placing fresh food in them. Never leave them undisturbed for long periods of time. Storing these food products in the refrigerator or freezer will prevent infestation.Insecticides - are not recommended for use against pantry pests.This article is not intended to provoke panic, but just an FYI for folks to be aware of and keep in mind. If you have any questions give us a call at the Cottonwood Extension Office.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

CAMPBELL: Pantry pests - control measures

Handwashing might seem like a routine activity in today’s world, especially after COVID, but that wasn’t always the case. Have you ever wondered where we got this idea? I learned about it in graduate school and was fascinated by how it came about. It wasn’t until the 19th century that handwashing was actually researched and the birth of modern handwashing came about. And the physician that pioneered this work was ridiculed!

Ignaz Semmelweis (1840s) was Hungarian physician that discovered handwashing with chlorinated lime solutions dramatically reduced the incidence of puerperal fever (childbed fever) in his obstetric wards. Despite his findings, his ideas were initially met with skepticism. In the 1800’s the understanding of disease transmission and germ theory were rudimentary. Semmelweis noticed that there was a stark difference in mortality rates between two maternity wards at the Vienna General Hospital. The ward attended by medical students had a much higher mortality rate compared to the ward run by midwives.

With further investigation he found that medical students moved between the dissection room and the maternity ward which we know now that they carried infectious material from the cadavers to the women in labor causing the high mortality rates. In 1847, Semmelweis introduced a policy requiring medical students and doctors to wash their hands with a chlorinated lime solution before examining patients. Handwashing lowered rates of puerperal fever and mortality rates in the maternity ward. However, he faced professional isolation and resistance from his colleagues.

Semmelweis’s methods were dismissed and ridiculed by the medical community and his findings were not accepted until later with the work of Joseph Lister (1860s) and Louis Pasteur that furthered microbiology and germ theory that Semmelweis’s work was accepted. Joseph Lister was a British surgeon who built on Semmelweis’s work by promoting antiseptic techniques in surgery. Lister’s use of carbolic acid (phenol) as an antiseptic led to a significant decrease in post-surgical infections.

Moving forward to the 20th century commercialization of antiseptic agents and soap improved hand hygiene practices, especially in the medical field but then later would move to the general public with Handwashing Campaigns in the 1970s-1980s. Handwashing became a public health issue.

Today handwashing is recognized as one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.

Extension agents promote handwashing often whether it’s cooking in the kitchen, outdoor parties, or in the classroom or workplace.

Hands pick up bacteria during daily routines, including gardening, taking out the trash, driving, playing with pets and many other activities.

It only takes 20 seconds with soap and warm water or about the time it takes to sing the alphabet. Be sure to scrub your hands…because the bubbles really do pick up the dirt and take it away.

A fun way we teach this to kids (and adults) is through our Glo-Germ Handwashing program that uses a black light to show the germs on your hands before washing and how they are gone after handwashing. We can also teach high speed handwashing that helps students learn to wash hands quickly and efficiently to save water! Call or email Monique today if you would like to introduce or remind your students how to properly wash their hands to keep everyone as healthy as possible this school year!

<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>Handwashing might seem like a routine activity in today’s world, especially after COVID, but that wasn’t always the case. Have you ever wondered where we got this idea? I learned about it in graduate school and was fascinated by how it came about. It wasn’t until the 19th century that handwashing was actually researched and the birth of modern handwashing came about. And the physician that pioneered this work was ridiculed!Ignaz Semmelweis (1840s) was Hungarian physician that discovered handwashing with chlorinated lime solutions dramatically reduced the incidence of puerperal fever (childbed fever) in his obstetric wards. Despite his findings, his ideas were initially met with skepticism. In the 1800’s the understanding of disease transmission and germ theory were rudimentary. Semmelweis noticed that there was a stark difference in mortality rates between two maternity wards at the Vienna General Hospital. The ward attended by medical students had a much higher mortality rate compared to the ward run by midwives.With further investigation he found that medical students moved between the dissection room and the maternity ward which we know now that they carried infectious material from the cadavers to the women in labor causing the high mortality rates. In 1847, Semmelweis introduced a policy requiring medical students and doctors to wash their hands with a chlorinated lime solution before examining patients. Handwashing lowered rates of puerperal fever and mortality rates in the maternity ward. However, he faced professional isolation and resistance from his colleagues.Semmelweis’s methods were dismissed and ridiculed by the medical community and his findings were not accepted until later with the work of Joseph Lister (1860s) and Louis Pasteur that furthered microbiology and germ theory that Semmelweis’s work was accepted. Joseph Lister was a British surgeon who built on Semmelweis’s work by promoting antiseptic techniques in surgery. Lister’s use of carbolic acid (phenol) as an antiseptic led to a significant decrease in post-surgical infections.Moving forward to the 20th century commercialization of antiseptic agents and soap improved hand hygiene practices, especially in the medical field but then later would move to the general public with Handwashing Campaigns in the 1970s-1980s. Handwashing became a public health issue.Today handwashing is recognized as one of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the spread of illness.Extension agents promote handwashing often whether it’s cooking in the kitchen, outdoor parties, or in the classroom or workplace.Hands pick up bacteria during daily routines, including gardening, taking out the trash, driving, playing with pets and many other activities.It only takes 20 seconds with soap and warm water or about the time it takes to sing the alphabet. Be sure to scrub your hands…because the bubbles really do pick up the dirt and take it away.A fun way we teach this to kids (and adults) is through our Glo-Germ Handwashing program that uses a black light to show the germs on your hands before washing and how they are gone after handwashing. We can also teach high speed handwashing that helps students learn to wash hands quickly and efficiently to save water! Call or email Monique today if you would like to introduce or remind your students how to properly wash their hands to keep everyone as healthy as possible this school year!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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

KOERNER: Handwashing

By MIKE COURSON Great Bend Post

No, those are not the infamous "murder hornets" flying around Barton County. While the historic outbreak of two broods of cicadas occurred earlier this year in the eastern United States, dry conditions in Kansas may be contributing to a higher number of large cicada killer wasps. Alicia Boor, agriculture and natural resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension, said while intimidating, the cicada killers are mostly harmless.

"They're just a huge wasp but they are not dangerous to humans at all," she said. "If you leave them alone, they'll leave you alone. They might try to dive bomb you a little bit. That's because they're trying to protect their territory, especially the males."

The flying insects are approximately two inches long with black and yellow-banded markings on the abdomen. The transparent wings are red-brown. Males establish an aerial territory and may hover around humans to determine if they are a threat but the males cannot sting. Females burrow 6-10 inches into the ground, typically in sandy or loose soil.

"With the drought, we do have maybe not quite as thick of lawns and maybe some dieback just because we haven't had the rain to be able to produce the vegetation we would like," Boor said. "That could be where you're seeing more of them."

While the wasps are generally harmless to humans, the same cannot be said for dog day cicadas. The female wasps find cicadas, sting and paralyze them, then drag them back to the burrow.

"They lay one single egg on top of the cicada, then bury it," said Boor. "When that egg hatches, it eats that cicada. That's its food source to be able to pupate. It pupates and stays underground until the next spring, then they come out the next June."

Females typically will not sting humans but may if they are stepped on with bare feet or grabbed with bare hands. Certain insecticides may be used to help control cicada killer populations but there are also natural ways to keep the insects away.

"If you're seeing them and don't want them around, try to discourage them by mulching or making sure the ground is covered," Boor said. "Otherwise, if you don't have that many of them, really watch them and admire how cool they are that that big of a wasp will drag that big of an insect into a burrow for the young's food source. I think that's really cool." 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1724338504814.png" alt="A cicada killer wasp dragging its prey that will eventually be a food source for the wasp's offspring. (photo by K-State Entomology)" />
 <figcaption>A cicada killer wasp dragging its prey that will eventually be a food source for the wasp's offspring. (photo by K-State Entomology)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MIKE COURSON Great Bend PostNo, those are not the infamous "murder hornets" flying around Barton County. While the historic outbreak of two broods of cicadas occurred earlier this year in the eastern United States, dry conditions in Kansas may be contributing to a higher number of large cicada killer wasps. Alicia Boor, agriculture and natural resources agent in the Cottonwood District for K-State Research and Extension, said while intimidating, the cicada killers are mostly harmless."They're just a huge wasp but they are not dangerous to humans at all," she said. "If you leave them alone, they'll leave you alone. They might try to dive bomb you a little bit. That's because they're trying to protect their territory, especially the males."The flying insects are approximately two inches long with black and yellow-banded markings on the abdomen. The transparent wings are red-brown. Males establish an aerial territory and may hover around humans to determine if they are a threat but the males cannot sting. Females burrow 6-10 inches into the ground, typically in sandy or loose soil."With the drought, we do have maybe not quite as thick of lawns and maybe some dieback just because we haven't had the rain to be able to produce the vegetation we would like," Boor said. "That could be where you're seeing more of them."While the wasps are generally harmless to humans, the same cannot be said for dog day cicadas. The female wasps find cicadas, sting and paralyze them, then drag them back to the burrow."They lay one single egg on top of the cicada, then bury it," said Boor. "When that egg hatches, it eats that cicada. That's its food source to be able to pupate. It pupates and stays underground until the next spring, then they come out the next June."Females typically will not sting humans but may if they are stepped on with bare feet or grabbed with bare hands. Certain insecticides may be used to help control cicada killer populations but there are also natural ways to keep the insects away."If you're seeing them and don't want them around, try to discourage them by mulching or making sure the ground is covered," Boor said. "Otherwise, if you don't have that many of them, really watch them and admire how cool they are that that big of a wasp will drag that big of an insect into a burrow for the young's food source. I think that's really cool." <div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

Large cicada killer wasps in Barton Co. not a threat to humans

Beef cattle outlook, coccidiosis, pasture burning and the first 30 days on feed are among topics planned for 2024 Kansas State University Beef Stocker Field Day on Thursday, Sept. 26. The conference will be hosted at the KSU Beef Stocker Unit.

Dale Blasi, a K-State animal sciences and industry professor and&nbsp;beef&nbsp;extension specialist, said this year’s agenda includes an outlook on the&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle market as well as future trends in the feeding industry, and the opportunities and challenges of beef on diary.

“The experiences and thoughts of our assembled speakers and panelists will provide insights as we progress into an unknown future,” Blasi said.&nbsp;

The event will be held at K-State’s&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Unit, located at 4330 Marlatt Avenue in Manhattan, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and ending near 5 p.m.The agenda includes:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

This year’s program will celebrate the 25th&nbsp;anniversary of the event. More can be found on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/events/stockerfieldday/">Beef Stocker webpage</a>&nbsp;where video recordings of prior years are also available.

Registration is $25 and due Sept. 14. Walk-in registration is available for $35. To register, visit&nbsp;asi.ksu.edu/stockerfieldday.&nbsp;For more information, contact Katie Smith at 785-532-1267 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:katiesmith@ksu.edu">katiesmith@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

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

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>Beef cattle outlook, coccidiosis, pasture burning and the first 30 days on feed are among topics planned for 2024 Kansas State University Beef Stocker Field Day on Thursday, Sept. 26. The conference will be hosted at the KSU Beef Stocker Unit.Dale Blasi, a K-State animal sciences and industry professor and&nbsp;beef&nbsp;extension specialist, said this year’s agenda includes an outlook on the&nbsp;beef&nbsp;cattle market as well as future trends in the feeding industry, and the opportunities and challenges of beef on diary.“The experiences and thoughts of our assembled speakers and panelists will provide insights as we progress into an unknown future,” Blasi said.&nbsp;The event will be held at K-State’s&nbsp;Beef&nbsp;Stocker&nbsp;Unit, located at 4330 Marlatt Avenue in Manhattan, beginning at 9:30 a.m. and ending near 5 p.m.The agenda includes:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Beef&nbsp;Cattle Outlook.&nbsp;</li><li>Producer Panel – Beef on Dairy – Opportunities and Challenges. &nbsp;</li><li>Coccidiosis: The Silent Thief Robbing Profits in Your Stocker Operation</li><li>Future Trends in the Kansas Cattle Feeding Industry.&nbsp;</li>
 </ul>This year’s program will celebrate the 25th&nbsp;anniversary of the event. More can be found on the&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.asi.k-state.edu/events/stockerfieldday/">Beef Stocker webpage</a>&nbsp;where video recordings of prior years are also available.Registration is $25 and due Sept. 14. Walk-in registration is available for $35. To register, visit&nbsp;asi.ksu.edu/stockerfieldday.&nbsp;For more information, contact Katie Smith at 785-532-1267 or&nbsp;<a href="mailto:katiesmith@ksu.edu">katiesmith@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.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.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

BOOR: K-State Beef Stocker Field Day Sept. 26

For me, not many things beat the rejuvenation of a good night's sleep. I feel alert, focused, and ready to tackle the day. On the other hand, restless nights lead to sluggish mornings and dull afternoons.

It’s amazing how sleep quality directly affects quality of life, and there’s reason for it. Sleep plays an important role in how the entire body functions! Specifically, it makes a big impact on brain health, immune function, metabolism, mood, and heart health:

· Learning and memory- During sleep, the brain stores away memories, and it clears plaque that is associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.

· Illness- While your mind rests during sleep, your immune system works hard. Antibodies and cytokines that fight infection and viruses are produced during sleep.

· Hormone alterations- Sleep deprivation can change hormone production. For example, insufficient sleep increases cortisol levels and raises appetite. This can make weight management difficult. However, sufficient sleep supports healthy hormone production and also defends against irritability, inability to concentrate, and depression.

· Cardiovascular health- Getting enough sleep improves heart health. Sleep disorders are linked to hypertension, increased stress, and irregular heartbeat.

Research shows that people who consistently fail to get enough sleep are at an increased risk of chronic disease. Treating sleep as a priority, rather than a luxury, may be an important step in preventing many chronic conditions.

If you currently have difficulty sleeping, pay close attention to your sleeping habits. Here are a few recommendations to help you fall asleep and stay asleep:

· Get into the routine of going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning.

· Avoid large meals, caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bedtime. Also, try not to exercise immediately before you sleep.

· Make your environment quiet, cool, dark, and relaxing. Keep technology out of reach.

As you know, sleep is vital for a healthy body. Plus, it simply makes you feel better. Good sleep doesn’t have to be a luxury. In fact, quality sleep should be a priority for your physical and mental health!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/10/1697484540273.jpeg" alt="written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District" />
 <figcaption>written by: Karissa Winkel - Cottonwood Extension District</figcaption>
 </figure>For me, not many things beat the rejuvenation of a good night's sleep. I feel alert, focused, and ready to tackle the day. On the other hand, restless nights lead to sluggish mornings and dull afternoons.It’s amazing how sleep quality directly affects quality of life, and there’s reason for it. Sleep plays an important role in how the entire body functions! Specifically, it makes a big impact on brain health, immune function, metabolism, mood, and heart health:· Learning and memory- During sleep, the brain stores away memories, and it clears plaque that is associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.· Illness- While your mind rests during sleep, your immune system works hard. Antibodies and cytokines that fight infection and viruses are produced during sleep.· Hormone alterations- Sleep deprivation can change hormone production. For example, insufficient sleep increases cortisol levels and raises appetite. This can make weight management difficult. However, sufficient sleep supports healthy hormone production and also defends against irritability, inability to concentrate, and depression.· Cardiovascular health- Getting enough sleep improves heart health. Sleep disorders are linked to hypertension, increased stress, and irregular heartbeat.Research shows that people who consistently fail to get enough sleep are at an increased risk of chronic disease. Treating sleep as a priority, rather than a luxury, may be an important step in preventing many chronic conditions.If you currently have difficulty sleeping, pay close attention to your sleeping habits. Here are a few recommendations to help you fall asleep and stay asleep:· Get into the routine of going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning.· Avoid large meals, caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bedtime. Also, try not to exercise immediately before you sleep.· Make your environment quiet, cool, dark, and relaxing. Keep technology out of reach.As you know, sleep is vital for a healthy body. Plus, it simply makes you feel better. Good sleep doesn’t have to be a luxury. In fact, quality sleep should be a priority for your physical and mental health!Karissa Winkel is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 620-793-1910 or krwinkel@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.<div><iframe title="Great Bend Post Podcast" allowtransparency="true" height="315" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);height:315px;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=exg2z-fe3d77-pbblog-playlist&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=f6f6f6&font-color=auto&logo_link=episode_page&order=episodic&limit=10&filter=all&ss=a713390a017602015775e868a2cf26b0&btn-skin=60a0c8&size=315" loading="lazy" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>

WINKEL: The role of sleep - make it a priority

It is just about time for the Kansas State Fair! The State Fair will kick off on Friday, September 6th, and run through Sunday, September 15th.

We had 42 4-H youth in Barton County qualify to take an entry to the State Fair. From those 42, we have over 80 entries!

I always say this day of delivering 4-H exhibits to the Kansas State Fair is one of the scariest driving days that I experience all year. Fragile visual arts projects, entomology and geology boxes, small woodworking projects, and cakes, pies, and cookies – Oh My!

Several 4-H youth will take part in contests such as modeling for Fashion Revue, participating with a photography judging team, or presenting a demonstration or illustrated talk.

As a ten-year 4-H member, I lived too far from Hutchinson to ever see my State Fair exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members to check out the 4-H exhibits!

If you attend the State Fair on a weekend, be sure to stop in Centennial Hall and listen to a few demonstrations or project talks. These youth are working hard to improve their communication skills and it is fun to see their ideas. Over 1200 4-H photographs will be on display as well as a wealth of rockets, sewing, quilting, and horticulture exhibits.

In case you are wondering, the foods entries are judged on Thursday, September 5th, and only a small number of samples are kept on display due to space constraints. The other portion of the foods entry is placed in a bake sale which benefits the International Foreign Youth Exchange (IFYE) program so be sure to check this out if you happen to be in Hutchinson on the afternoon of September 5th.

Come visit the Kansas State Fair and step off the midway for a while to see the wide variety of talents and skills on display by 4-H members across our state!

<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>It is just about time for the Kansas State Fair! The State Fair will kick off on Friday, September 6th, and run through Sunday, September 15th.We had 42 4-H youth in Barton County qualify to take an entry to the State Fair. From those 42, we have over 80 entries!I always say this day of delivering 4-H exhibits to the Kansas State Fair is one of the scariest driving days that I experience all year. Fragile visual arts projects, entomology and geology boxes, small woodworking projects, and cakes, pies, and cookies – Oh My!Several 4-H youth will take part in contests such as modeling for Fashion Revue, participating with a photography judging team, or presenting a demonstration or illustrated talk.As a ten-year 4-H member, I lived too far from Hutchinson to ever see my State Fair exhibits on display so I encourage all of our 4-H members to check out the 4-H exhibits!If you attend the State Fair on a weekend, be sure to stop in Centennial Hall and listen to a few demonstrations or project talks. These youth are working hard to improve their communication skills and it is fun to see their ideas. Over 1200 4-H photographs will be on display as well as a wealth of rockets, sewing, quilting, and horticulture exhibits.In case you are wondering, the foods entries are judged on Thursday, September 5th, and only a small number of samples are kept on display due to space constraints. The other portion of the foods entry is placed in a bake sale which benefits the International Foreign Youth Exchange (IFYE) program so be sure to check this out if you happen to be in Hutchinson on the afternoon of September 5th.Come visit the Kansas State Fair and step off the midway for a while to see the wide variety of talents and skills on display by 4-H members across our state!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.All Kansas Extension education programs and materials are available to all individuals without discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability.

BERAN: Kansas State Fair time

We canned meat, lots and lots of meat! On August 7, 2024, the Cottonwood Extension District hosted a meat canning class held by K-State Research and Extension Specialist, Karen Blakeslee. We had 15 people attend from Ellis County and several of the surrounding counties, including Russell, Barton, and Ness counties. We canned chicken, beef, and hamburger that afternoon. Some of the attendees had canned before but many of them were new to canning meat. All attendees were able to take home at least one can of each meat.

I was intrigued by canning meat when I took a 3-day canning class that Karen offers specifically to agents. We were able to bring home the produce and meat canned and I found it so easy to put dinner on the table when the meat was ready to go! And the flavor of canned meat is amazing!

In addition to hands on meat canning, Karen spoke about best practices for safe food preservation, dehydration and freezing. Participants went home with lots of handouts and freebies from the Kansas Beef Council as well.

Many thanks to the First United Methodist Church for allowing us to hold programs in their wonderfully stocked kitchen!

If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Karen speak, you are missing out. She is very knowledgeable about all things food preservation. If you are interested in other food preservation workshops, Karen is holding a pickling class in Salina on August 22 from 12-5PM. Check out our Facebook page for the details or go to Central Kansas District Facebook page.

If you are interested in learning more about food preservation, please contact Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or visit the Cottonwood Extension District website at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/8/1723565219135.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>We canned meat, lots and lots of meat! On August 7, 2024, the Cottonwood Extension District hosted a meat canning class held by K-State Research and Extension Specialist, Karen Blakeslee. We had 15 people attend from Ellis County and several of the surrounding counties, including Russell, Barton, and Ness counties. We canned chicken, beef, and hamburger that afternoon. Some of the attendees had canned before but many of them were new to canning meat. All attendees were able to take home at least one can of each meat.I was intrigued by canning meat when I took a 3-day canning class that Karen offers specifically to agents. We were able to bring home the produce and meat canned and I found it so easy to put dinner on the table when the meat was ready to go! And the flavor of canned meat is amazing!In addition to hands on meat canning, Karen spoke about best practices for safe food preservation, dehydration and freezing. Participants went home with lots of handouts and freebies from the Kansas Beef Council as well.Many thanks to the First United Methodist Church for allowing us to hold programs in their wonderfully stocked kitchen!If you haven’t had a chance to listen to Karen speak, you are missing out. She is very knowledgeable about all things food preservation. If you are interested in other food preservation workshops, Karen is holding a pickling class in Salina on August 22 from 12-5PM. Check out our Facebook page for the details or go to Central Kansas District Facebook page.If you are interested in learning more about food preservation, please contact Monique at moniquek@ksu.edu or visit the Cottonwood Extension District website at https://cottonwood.k-state.edu/.&nbsp;Monique Koerner is the Family and Community Wellness Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: 785-628-9430 or moniquek@ksu.edu. K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.