Farm & Ranch
Meanwhile…Back at the Ranch
By Rayford Pullen, [email protected]
Spring is a coming and so are the weeds. The rains last year let us know exactly how many weeds were in our pastures. If you were like us, we were unable to get much done in the way of weed control because of all the rain, and, subsequently, we had what I would call an explosion of weeds, particularly cockleburs. Now our cows have a lethal weapon in the form of a tail switch full of these spiked seed.
When it comes to selecting the right herbicide, it is important to know the particular weeds you are trying to control, when they germinate, susceptible crops (flowers, trees, etc.) in the area and desirable forages, such as clovers, that you may not want to eliminate. You need to have a good information resource when it comes to selecting the correct herbicide, applying it correctly and using the recommended rate. This may be your County Agent, your herbicide provider or your neighbor. Just make sure it is someone with your best interest at heart. To read more pick up the March 2016 issue of NTFR.
By Barry Whitworth, DVM
Having backyard poultry is a popular agriculture enterprise. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 0.8 percent of all households in the United States have chickens. People keep chickens for a variety of reasons with table eggs being one of the more common reasons.
Unfortunately, some of these poultry producers are not aware of the hazards that come with keeping poultry because many times they carry pathogens but appear healthy.
Chickens are carriers of several zoonotic diseases. These are diseases that can be passed from animals to humans. According to a recent survey in Pennsylvania, a majority of backyard poultry producers were aware of the dangers of avian influenza. However, this study also revealed that far fewer producers were aware of the risk of possible exposure to Salmonella and Campylobacter.
The lack of knowledge about the hazards of raising poultry likely contributes to the continued issues of Salmonella outbreaks associated with backyard poultry. In 2023, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 1,072 illnesses of Salmonella linked to backyard poultry, and 272 of those patients required hospitalization. Oklahoma reported 43 individuals with the disease.
To read more, pick up a copy of the April issue of NTFR magazine. To subscribe by mail, call 940-872-5922.
By Tressa Lawrence
Babies are tucked away in every nook and cranny. Many ranchers across Wyoming have baby animals popping up all over this time of year.
By Lindsey Monk
Another load of grain in to keep feeding the calves until the green grass can really start popping.
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