Warm-season grasses are generally thought to be of lower quality than cool-season grasses. However, tropical or subtropical climate regions have highly productive grazing systems based primarily or solely on warm-season grasses. This brings up the question—can targeted grazing management increase the quality of warm-season grasses in temperate regions?
The behavior and actions of stockmen have a direct effect on the behavior and welfare of livestock (Zulkifli, 2013). In simple terms, this means an animal’s action, or inaction, is the result of the actions or inactions of the stockperson. Behavioral research in beef cattle (Probst et al., 2013; Petherick et al., 2009a), has shown that an animal’s response is dependent on the quality of treatment received from their human handlers.
According to the World Health Organization, anxiety disorders are the most common, worldwide, mental health disorders, with 301 million people in the world experiencing anxiety disorder as of 2019. One of the core characteristics of anxiety disorders is an unrealistic and extreme worry about daily occurrences.
Teff, Eragrostis tef, is an annual grass that has been gaining popularity for forage production. This warm-season grass originated in Ethiopia and has gained acceptance in many parts of the world for both its grain and forage qualities, with forage use receiving attention in the United States. Baling, ensiling, and grazing are potential options for this forage. Its hay typically has good palatability, which is likely due to its fine stem structure and soft leaf tissue.
According to a 2023 national survey, 29% of adults in the United States have been diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives and 17.8% are currently being treated for depression. Women are reported to have the highest risk for depression, with 36.7% being diagnosed with depression at some point in their lives and 23.8% being treated for depression at the time of the survey (Witters, 2024).
It is human nature to gravitate toward the path of least resistance. While many of us work hard, sustained focus on significant challenges often feels daunting. These are the "big, hard things" that require stepping out of the familiar into uncharted territory.
What are your goals for raising meat chickens? Whether you are raising chickens for your own consumption or to sell, you should consider your end goals and budget. Producers living in city limits should contact their local government before purchasing chicks to understand the ordinances for owning chickens.
In livestock production, grazing is an excellent tool but is highly specific to the conditions and goal of each operation. This variability in production systems has led to a discussion on what is the best way to graze for different situations. A description of the basics of continuous grazing and rotational grazing is a starting point for this conversation.
Both gooseberries and currants belong to the genus Ribes. Jostaberries are the interspecies crosses of gooseberries and black currants. Ribes plants and fruits were extremely popular in the United States in the 1800s. In 1899, U.S. Ribes production was estimated to have reached 7,000 acres (Bratsch & Williams, 2009). In the early 1900s, white pine blister rust (WPBR) became a serious disease, threatening the lucrative timber business in the United States.
Both gooseberries and currants belong to the genus Ribes. Jostaberries are the interspecies crosses of gooseberries and black currants. Ribes plants and fruits were extremely popular in the United States in the 1800s. In 1899, U.S. Ribes production was estimated to have reached 7,000 acres (Bratsch & Williams, 2009). In the early 1900s, white pine blister rust (WPBR) became a serious disease, threatening the lucrative timber business in the United States.
