K-State Research and Extension - All Extension News

Upcoming K-State Research and Extension Events

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

K-State Research and Extension is offering these events, available to all interested persons. For more information about these, as well as more localized events, check with your local K-State Research and Extension office.

Kansas Net Farm Income Dipped in 2012 but Crop Insurance, Prices Provided Support

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Judicious use of risk management tools and other key management decisions saved the day for many Kansas farmers last year even as the state endured its worst drought in decades, according to Kansas Farm Management Association program director, Kevin Herbel.

Agriculture Today Radio Program Wednesday, June 19

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

K-State professor emeritus in agricultural policy Barry Flinchbaugh offers his input on the farm bill debate, as the House of Representatives pushes ahead toward a possible vote on its version of the measure this week: how the debate over the commodity title portion of the bill might shake out; what could happen if there's another impasse on the bill, much as was the case last year; why retaining the food stamp program as part of the farm bill is imperative to production agriculture and the very existence of the USDA. See more

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Randy Rundle - Fifth Avenue Antique Auto

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

It’s the opening ceremony of the Pan American Games. Down the street comes a special dignitary: the Queen of England in a vintage 1951 Cadillac limousine. When that car was rebuilt, where do you suppose they found the necessary expertise? Would you believe, at a shop in the middle of rural Kansas? Thanks to Michelle Tessaro of KCLY radio for this Kansas Profile story idea.

Agricultural policy specialist Barry Flinchbaugh (Part 1)...

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Agricultural news...

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories.

Agricultural policy specialist Barry Flinchbaugh (Part 2)...

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State professor emeritus in agricultural policy Barry Flinchbaugh continues his discussion on the farm bill debate, as the House of Representatives pushes ahead toward a possible vote on its version of the measure this week: how the debate over the commodity title portion of the bill might shake out; what could happen if there's another impasse on the bill, why retaining the food stamp program as part of the farm bill is imperative to production agriculture and the very existence of the USDA.

Rice Blast Research Reveals Details on How a Fungus Invades Plants

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Like a stealthy enemy, blast disease invades rice crops around the world, killing plants and cutting production of one of the most important global food sources.

IGP associate director Mark Fowler...

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The associate director of the International Grains Program, Mark Fowler, reports on recent I-G-P activities, including education for flour millers from the largest customer of U.S. hard red winter wheat, Nigeria, as well as an important session with wheat millers from China.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee tells of a new approach to driving deer away from a specific area, using what is called a bio- acoustic frightening device...which has proved very effective in a field study in Nebraska.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson covers the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Milk Lines from K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk.

K-State wheat disease specialist Erick DeWolf...

Tue, 18 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wheat disease specialist Erick DeWolf summarizes the disease issues in Kansas wheat as harvest time is upon us, saying that some plant freeze and drought damage has been mistaken for disease damage...he also talks about the potential for head scab disease turning up during the harvest.

Kansas Forest Service Launches Plan to Preserve $1.3B Industry

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Each time Bob Atchison sees kids playing in a park, a family having a picnic, or an American bald eagle building a nest in a tall Kansas cottonwood, he tends to get more passionate about his job.

Ann Domsch, Operation: Military Kids...

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, the coordinator of Operation: Military Kids, K-State's Ann Domsch, talks about a couple of special camps for military family youth coming up this summer.

Livestock economist Derrell Peel...

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Livestock economist Derrell Peel of Oklahoma State University provides this week's cattle market analysis: he comments on the boxed beef market, which has managed to remain strong, even after falling back some from record-high levels...he also looks at the USDA's latest beef production forecast for the remainder of 2013.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales from the Kansas Forest Service.

K-State swine nutritionist Bob Goodband...

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State swine nutritionist Bob Goodband advises hog producers to monitor the oil content of distillers' dried grains when using those as a primary feedstuff, as some ethanol producers are now extracting oil from their DDGS, which significantly affects the nutritional value to hogs...also, full details on the upcoming Bob Hines Swine Classic, sponsored by K-State and to be held in early July.

MAINTAINING THE CHOPPER...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Forage choppers that are properly maintained throughout the chopping season can reduce costs, improve forage quality and help dairy producers increase profitability. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses some of the steps producers can take to keep knives sharp – but not too sharp during the chopping season.

SURVEYING FARM PONDS...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The drought took a toll on countless farm ponds in the central plains. While rains have replenished some ponds, the impact on fish residing there may not be clear. That’s why K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee is recommending landowners survey their ponds…trying to get an idea of the mix of fish species still there. This week, he goes over several methods of going about this.

IMPROVING FAMILY COMMUNICATION...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There are many things we just don’t stop to think about when talking to loved ones – and most of the time that works. However, there are times when we may need to be more aware of how we interact with one another. For example, communication really becomes critical when there is a conflict in the family because the patterns developed over time will contribute to how that conflict is resolved. K-State Research and Extension family systems specialist Charlotte Shoup Olsen discusses how we can improve family communication.

THOUSAND CANKERS DISEASE...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Thousand cankers disease has been found in many Western states, but the fungus and beetle have not been found in the Great Plains. However, Kansas Forest health specialist Nichole Opbroek says a number of factors suggest that this disease could establish in Kansas’ forests and threaten our eastern black walnut trees.

CLOSING COUNTY ROADS...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The state of Kansas has over 140-thousand public road miles, of which some 62-percent are in poor or mediocre condition. Last year, a professor at Kansas State University was selected to find a way to measure the benefits and costs of closing rural roads. The result of his selection was a report titled: “The Economics of Potential Reduction of the Rural Road System in Kansas.”

WHAT IS A MONSOON?...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Summer thunderstorms are often described as monsoons because of the heavy rain associated with the storms. State climatologist Mary Knapp says the comparison is to the conditions that are common in Asian monsoons. However, “monsoon” is actually a seasonal wind pattern.

THE LARGEST HAILSTONE...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In Kansas, severe thunderstorms often include hail. Sometimes that hail can be enormous. State climatologist Mary Knapp looks at some of the largest hailstones ever recorded, including one documented in Coffeyville and another in Wichita.

NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF BREADS...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Wheat Commission and sponsors of the third National Festival of Breads invite you to attend this year’s contest later this month in Manhattan. Eight finalists selected from more than 500 entries from across the nation will compete for the NFOB Grand Prize package worth $5,000. The finalists will prepare their bread recipes in miniature kitchens inside the ballroom of the Hilton Garden Inn Convention Center in Manhattan. Bill Spiegel has more on this year’s National Festival of Breads.

MATT WILSON – INVENA...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

An engineering problem-solver, known for its design and precision fabrication of equipment and controls for the energy and aerospace sectors, is based in rural Kansas. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, explains how this rural company helps mostly Fortune 50 companies – not Fortune 500 companies, but Fortune 50 companies – who are looking for solutions to an engineering or fabrication problem.

ONE “HAIL” OF A STORM...

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A thunderstorm that struck Selden, Kansas in 1959 demonstrates how hail can sometimes be confused with snow. State climatologist Mary Knapp says the confusion occurs because hail is sometimes recorded as frozen precipitation.

Petersilie to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Walnut Creek District

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Erin Petersilie will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Walnut Creek District as a family and consumer sciences agent, effective July 7. She will be based in the Dighton, Kan. office.

Wheat Crop Analysis

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop production specialist Jim Shroyer shares his thoughts on the condition of the Kansas winter wheat crop, after extensive touring of the state.

Kansas Weather Update

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp of K-State reports on Kansas agricultural weather.

Agricultural News...

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Eric Atkinson with the latest agriculture news.

Grain Markets Update

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien recaps this week's USDA grain production and supply-and-demand reports and their influence on the grain markets.

Larson to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension River Valley District

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kim Larson will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension River Valley District as an agriculture extension agent with a focus on crop production, effective July 7. She will be based in the Concordia, Kan. office.

Andres to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Geary County Office

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Debra Andres will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Geary County office as a family and consumer sciences agent, effective July 1.

Post-Planting Weed Control in Soybeans

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State weed management specialist Dallas Peterson talks about post-planting weed control in soybeans, and related weed control issues.

The Latest Kansas Wheat Crop Production Estimate

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The state statistician with Kansas Agricultural Statistics, Jason Lamprecht, passes along the latest Kansas wheat production estimate.

Increasing Home Value Through Quality Landscaping

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State landscape specialist emeritus Gus van der Hoeven talks about how good landscape design can add value to one's home.

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Matt Wilson - Invena

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Rough seas off the western coast of Africa are making it difficult for a company to complete its work. Where would such a company turn for a solution? Would you believe, to a business in rural Kansas?

Senate Passes Farm Bill

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural policy specialist Brad Lubben of the University of Nebraska remarks on the Senate's passage of the farm bill.

Agricultural Law Update

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen of Iowa State University goes over the finer points of that Kansas farmer lawsuit against Monsanto.

Stop, Look and Listen

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Agricultural News...

Wed, 12 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories.

Trees: One of the Best Resources in Kansas

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State rural forestry coordinator Bob Atchison talks about the numerous ways that value is manifested in Kansas' tree resources.

Kansas Agricultural Mediation Services

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Forrest Buhler, staff attorney with Kansas Agricultural Mediation Services, offers an overview of the assistance his office can provide agricultural producers.

Agricultural News

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Today's latest ag news headlines...

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien talks more about the GMO wheat issue and how the wheat market is largely looking past that, and discusses likely shifts in corn and soybean acreage because of delayed planting...as he takes up the grain market trends.

K-State farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl shares more trends from the 2012 Kansas Net Farm Income report just released by the Kansas Farm Management Association...he breaks down the income numbers by type of farm, and looks at the return on farm equity and debt-to-asset ratio as indicators of a generally healthy Kansas farm economy.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson has the day's top agricultural news stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, has an update on Kansas agricultural weather.

FOOD PRESERVATION TIPS...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As the popularity of home gardening increases, more gardeners are using food preservation techniques to extend the life of the fruits and vegetables they harvested during the growing season. While food preservation may sound relatively simple, K-State Research and Extension food scientist Karen Blakeslee says there are a number of steps that must be followed to safely preserve food.

WALNUT COUNCIL FIELD DAY...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Black walnut is the most commercially valuable tree in Kansas. Since 1981, black walnut volume has increased by 95 percent, providing significant income to Kansas landowners who recognize its value. On June 13th, Kansas landowners and natural resource professionals will have an opportunity to learn more about the management and care of this important tree species at the Walnut Council Field Day on the John Chase Walnut Plantation northwest of Abilene. Bob Atchison, rural forestry coordinator with the Kansas Forest Service, has more information on the upcoming field day.

AMERICA’S INFRASTRUCTURE NEEDS REPAIR...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The last part of May a bridge collapse sent cars and drivers plunging into a river in the state of Washington. No one was killed, although three people had to be rescued. The collapse of the bridge, which was built back in 1955, caused legislators in Washington, D.C. and elsewhere across the country to renew their calls for more investment in the nation's aging infrastructure.

PAXICO MEATLOAF FESTIVAL...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A contest to settle an argument between two restaurants over who had the best meatloaf has become an annual event for one rural Kansas community. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, explains this unique contest and how the community continues to attract new businesses.

THE EARTH’S ATMOSPHERE...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The earth’s gravity traps a gaseous shell or “atmosphere” around the planet. According to state climatologist Mary Knapp, one of the most variable components and the most interesting from a meteorological standpoint is water vapor.

HURRICANES IN KANSAS?...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

You probably won’t ever see a hurricane warning issued for Kansas, but state climatologist Mary Knapp says the state has experienced some of the remnants of a hurricane. The result was two days of heavy rain in southeastern Kansas.

SHARE YOUR KNOWLEDGE...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As part of the “June is Dairy Month” campaign, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says producers shouldn’t be shy about sharing their knowledge of the industry with consumers. He says there are several ways producers can interact with people to spotlight their operations and the dairy industry.

ROAD KILL SURVEY...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Thousands of wild animals are lost each year to vehicle strikes, commonly referred to as “road kill”. A new study in the Southern Plains region, including part of Kansas, shed further light on the extent of these losses and the factors that contribute to them. K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee has a look at the findings from this survey.

HARD WHITE WHEAT RESEARCH...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM) has announced a $325,000 investment in the Kansas Wheat Commission Research Foundation that will be used to strengthen the hard white wheat variety development in the Kansas State University wheat breeding program at Hays. The investment will allow wheat breeder Guorong Zhang and his colleagues to use molecular marker and doubled haploid technologies to develop new white wheat varieties suited for the baking industry, plus offer farmers improved yield and agronomic traits. Bill Spiegel has more.

DON’T RISK A TRAGEDY...

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Even in the shade, with temperatures only in the 80’s, the temperature inside a vehicle can quickly exceed 100 degrees. As a result, state climatologist Mary Knapp says leaving people and pets in a vehicle – even for a short time – can have tragic consequences.

Ireland to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Greenwood County Office

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Bethany Ireland will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Greenwood County office as family and consumer sciences agent, effective June 9.

de Fornoza to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Finney County Office

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Lehisa de Fornoza will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Finney County office as a family and consumer sciences agent, effective June 23.

Introducing the K-State Agricultural Lender Survey: A new look at agricultural lending conditions

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

With today’s volatile commodity market and questions surrounding the quality of credit for various agricultural sectors, information about the current and future state of agricultural financial conditions is in high demand by those interested in and following agriculture.

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth...

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth reports that armyworms are now making their move into corn and grain sorghum fields, and that growers need to monitor that activity closely....he also talks about English grain aphids in wheat, and whether they're something for growers to worry about.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news stories.

K-State horticulturist Ward Upham...

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State horticulturist Ward Upham covers several topics, including gall growth on oak trees, peach leaf curl and sidedressing fertilizer on annual flowers.

K-State crop entomologist J.P. Michaud...

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop entomologist J.P. Michaud discusses thrip and chinch bug activity in wheat and alfalfa that could soon make its way into adjacent soybean and cotton crops...he talks about the use of trap rows and barrier treatments to minimize these problems, and talks about how much protection producers can reasonably expect from insecticidal seed treatments.

Kansas State University Researcher Awarded Grant to Boost U.S. Strawberry Production

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University researcher Cary Rivard has been awarded $67,000 to design a system to help boost U.S. strawberry production.

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Larry and Peggy Winkler - Paxico Meatloaf Festival

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

“My meatloaf is better than your meatloaf.” “No, my meatloaf is better than your meatloaf.” This type of culinary debate creates lots of discussion. In this case, it led to the creation of a remarkable community festival. Get your fork, it’s today’s Kansas Profile.

Beef Producers Asked to Take Online Survey

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University animal scientist Sandy Johnson is hoping beef cattle producers will take a little time from their day-to-day work to answer a few questions online in order to help her and other scientists understand how producers have integrated artificial insemination into their production system and how it contributes to the profitability of their operation.

Agricultural news...

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

K-State agricultural economist Allen Featherstone...

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Allen Featherstone talks about a new K-State survey of agricultural lenders across the nation, which aimed at measuring trends in financial lending to farmers and ranchers...it rendered useful information on interest rates and competitiveness for business among lenders, among other things.

K-State irrigation engineer Danny Rogers...

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State irrigation engineer Danny Rogers looks at K-State's extensive research into crop plant water use, and some things that most don't recognize about the water use tendencies of our leading irrigated crops.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at a new study of wildlife losses due to vehicle collisions, or "road kill"...and what can be done to lessen those losses.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories.

K-State agronomist Ignacio Ciampitti...

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Ignacio Ciampitti discusses several common problems with early corn development that Kansas growers may be seeing in the field now...he talks about what, if any, remedies can help corn plants come out of a lethargic state.

K-State entomologist Tom Phillips...

Tue, 04 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State entomologist Tom Phillips talks about the latest strategies in protecting stored wheat from insect damage, as harvest time looms...he says the integrated pest management approach is still the method of choice, which includes strategic use of fumigant products.

Attend Walnut Council Field Day to Learn about Black Walnut

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Black walnut is the most commercially valuable tree in Kansas. Since 1981, black walnut volume has increased by 95 percent, providing significant income to Kansas landowners who recognize its value, according to Bob Atchison, rural forestry coordinator with the Kansas Forest Service. The rich chocolate-colored wood of this fast-growing shade-intolerant tree is highly valued worldwide for veneer, furniture, cabinets and guns stocks. The nuts are also in high demand for use in cookies and candies and the shells are used for abrasives.

Cutting Edge Opportunities Await New Kansas Leaders

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Thirty Kansans were named to the 12^th Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership, Inc. (KARL) class at a celebration in Salina on Saturday, June 1.

K-State feedlot nutritionist Chris Reinhardt...

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State feedlot nutritionist Chris Reinhardt discusses his new study of the USDA's feeder cattle grading system, and its degree of accuracy in predicting the end weight and, to an extent, performance of cattle placed at commercial feedlots.

LMIC director Jim Robb...

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The director of the Livestock Marketing Information Center, Jim Robb, offers this week's analysis of the cattle markets: in addition to commenting on the latest price trends, he talks about the continuing strength of boxed beef prices at record levels, and compares that to unusually high retail prices for competing meats...he also looks at the recent downward trend in cull cow prices.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news stories.

JEFF HANSON – MUSCOTAH...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Baseball is known as America’s pastime because it was probably the most widely played sport in the 19th and early 20th century. The best double-play combination in the early 1900s was the Chicago Cubs’ Joe Tinker to Johnny Evers to Frank Chance. Tinker was born in rural Kansas. Now, Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Tinker’s hometown is honoring him by repurposing the city’s old water tower tank to create the world’s largest baseball – complete with baseball stitching on the outside and a museum on the inside.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As part of this week's analysis of the grain market trends, K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien comments on the potential impact of this week's discovery of genetically-modified wheat in Oregon on wheat exports.

THE NEXT AMERICAN REVOLUTION...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Many Americans are very frustrated with the current state of the economy, and are fearful that it might ultimately fail. In that frustration and fear, one historian and political economist sees a revolutionary new economic movement.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Following a stormy week, state climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, covers the Kansas agricultural weather scene.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

FSA farm program specialist Todd Barrows...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Farm program specialist Todd Barrows of the Farm Service Agency reminds producers of several USDA program deadlines coming up, and urges producers who've endured weather losses to crops this year to report those to the local F-S-A office at the same time they turn in their crop insurance claims.

EARLY SUMMER TREE PRUNING...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Many older shade trees in the home landscape are large enough that an early summer pruning will help reduce their crown size and slow down the growth of the tree. K-State Extension forester Charles Barden discusses the advantages of pruning older trees in early summer.

EATING MORE WHOLE GRAINS...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Studies show that eating whole grains instead of refined grains lowers the risk of many chronic diseases. Although the benefits are greater for those eating at least three servings a day, some studies show reduced risks from as little as one serving a day. The recommendation is to make half of our grains whole grains. K-State Research and Extension nutrition specialist Mary Meck Higgins explains why whole grains are so good for us and how easy it is to find foods that are high in whole grains.

CAPPED INVERSION...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A capped inversion is a layer of relatively warm air aloft, usually several thousand feet above the surface. Rising air is relatively cooler than this layer, limiting its ability to continue to rise. State climatologist Mary Knapp says this can slow or prevent the development of thunderstorms.

IS IT SUMMER YET?...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

According to the calendar, summer begins June 21st. However, if you ask several people when summer begins, you’ll probably get several different answers. State climatologist Mary Knapp says that’s because people associate the start of summer with other events.

NIGERIAN ANNUAL TRADE TEAM VISIT...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Nine representatives from the top milling and food companies in Nigeria will travel to four states to survey the new wheat crop as part of an annual trade team visit to the U.S. Year in and year out, Nigeria is one of the largest buyers of U.S. wheat, including nearly 2.4 million metric tons – or nearly 100 million bushels – of hard red winter wheat in marketing year 2012-13. During the visit, the team will meet with university researchers, talk with wheat farmers in the field, and tour grain and wheat foods facilities in Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and Nebraska. Bill Spiegel reports.

TORNADO OUTBREAKS...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There have been a number of devastating tornado outbreaks this spring. State climatologist Mary Knapp recalls several tornado outbreaks that occurred in different years, but on the same date – June 8th – resulting in multiple deaths, injuries and damage.

ATTRIBUTES OF SAUGEYE...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Some years ago, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks introduced a new hybrid fish to reservoirs and other larger water impoundments, for the purpose of improving fish resources. And this approach – stocking waters with saugeye – has proven quite successful, and has provided fishing enthusiasts with yet another high-quality game fish to go after. K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee talks more about the numerous attributes of the saugeye.

SUMMER DAIRY NUTRITION...

Fri, 31 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As warmer weather approaches there are several ailments that can affect the dairy herd. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk discusses the value of implementing sorting pens and various nutritional regimens to minimize or eliminate those ailments.

Kansas Community Garden Conference Announced

Thu, 30 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

A new, Kansas Community Garden Conference is all about growing – in the garden and the community.

K-State horticulturist Dennis Patton...

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's horticulture segment, Johnson County Extension horticulture agent Dennis Patton discusses an assortment of landscape and garden insect pests that homeowners and gardeners should be addressing here in late spring...including aphids, flea beetles and ash sawflies.

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth...

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth advises wheat growers on responding to late-season insect pressure ahead of harvest, with particular concern for both the common armyworm and the wheat head armyworm, both of which have been detected in fields recently.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news stories.

Kansas Agriculture in the Classroom...

Thu, 30 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The administrator of the Kansas Agriculture in the Classroom program, Cathy Musick, provides an update on the successes in bringing agricultural information and themes into public school education, as the program celebrates its 30th year of operation...she also talks about a new fundraising campaign in support of the program.

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Jeff and C.J. Hanson - Muscotah

Wed, 29 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

“These are the saddest of possible words: Tinker to Evers to Chance. Trio of bear cubs and fleeter than birds: Tinker and Evers and Chance.” These famous words come from a poem about baseball. The poem was written from the standpoint of a rival team, but it made famous the best double-play combination in baseball at the time. One of those great players, Joe Tinker, was born in rural Kansas. His hometown is now honoring that history in a big way – and I mean that literally.

Kids’ Summer Jobs Offer Opportunities for Parents, Too

Wed, 29 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

A summer job can provide opportunities for youth – and their parents.

Combustible Dust Workshops Offered

Wed, 29 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

In order to increase safety awareness at grain elevators, feed mills and other grain processing facilities, Kansas State University’s Department of Grain Science and Industry is offering workshops in English and Spanish to address combustible dust hazards.

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen...

Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen comments on the latest court ruling on an effort to halt the marketing of a genetically-modified crop, in this case, alfalfa...this decision could set an important precedent, making it tougher for anti-GMO causes to legally challenge GMO production without scientific evidence to back their claims.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Agricultural news...

Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at the day's top stories.

K-State row crop disease specialist Doug Jardine...

Wed, 29 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State row crop disease specialist Doug Jardine discusses early fungicide applications to corn...whether it's worth the producer's while to put on a fungicide in combination with a herbicide application at this current stage of crop development.

Kansas 4-H to Award Scholarships to 57 Students

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The Kansas 4-H Foundation has selected 57 students to share in $45,700 in scholarships, rewarding them for their dedication and leadership as Kansas 4-H members.

86-year-old 4-H Leader Named Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

There have been many changes in 4-H during the last 60 years, but one thing is the same; Mildred Waldren is volunteering her time to help Greeley County 4-H’ers. Stories of Waldren’s mentoring are being told by past Greeley County 4-H members as they become parents and grandparents to another generation of 4-H’ers. Even at the age of 86, her values, character and attitude make her an influential role model for youth, their parents and other volunteers.

Local 4-H Hero, Wins Regional, National Volunteer Award

Tue, 28 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Twelve-year-old Auburn 4-H club member, Tamara McConnell, has a hero. Her hero isn’t Superman or Captain America, and she doesn’t have super strength or laser vision. Her hero, Lisa Pfannenstiel-Garrison, of Auburn, Kan., has the superpower of mentorship. (Lisa Pfannenstiel-Garrison, left; and Barbara Stone, Department Head and Assistant Director, 4-H, right).

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee talks about a hybrid fish that was introduced in Kansas water impoundments several years ago: the saugeye, which can play an important role in improving fishing resources.

K-State beef systems specialist Jaymelynn Farney...

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef systems specialist Jaymelynn Farney tells about a new program she's helping to introduce in southeast Kansas, with the hopes of taking the program statewide: the Sunflower Supreme Heifer program, which will work with cattle producers in raising the standards for replacement heifer development.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A look at the day's top agricultural news stories with K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson.

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor...

Tue, 28 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor comments on the USDA's revisions to the mandatory country-of-origin labeling rule for meat products sold in the U.S....what those entail and why C-O-O-L may still remain a contentious issue.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien talks about the corn and soybean market reactions to significant corn planting progress in the past two weeks, and about the wheat market response to the latest crop condition and harvest prospects, as he covers the grain market scene.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

K-State risk management specialist Art Barnaby...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State risk management specialist Art Barnaby shares his analysis of the payments that participating producers can expect from the Average Crop Revenue Election program for their 2012 crops, and his projection on possible payments for 2013 production, with the
deadline for ACRE enrollment for this year's crops coming up a week from Monday.

NATIONAL FESTIVAL OF BREADS...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Eight home bakers from across the nation will come to Manhattan in June to participate in the National Festival of Breads – America’s only amateur bread baking contest. The biennial contest celebrates the relationship between producer and consumer and highlights the art of baking bread at home. Bill Spiegel has more on the contest and this year’s participants.

WATERING NEWLY PLANTED TREES...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With some areas of the state still well below normal precipitation levels and temperatures beginning to warm, newly planted trees – those less than one year old – will require additional care. K-State Extension forester Charles Barden discusses how to care for trees during late spring and summer.

FINDING A PART TIME SUMMER JOB...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Although the job market remains tight, teens and college students looking for summer employment may still be able to find part time work. However, there are several factors to consider before accepting a job offer. K-State Research and Extension family resource specialist Elizabeth Kiss (kish) analyzes some of the pros and cons of part time jobs.

SNAKES AND NEST PREDATION...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

That snakes will prey on bird nests is nothing new, but wildlife researchers have been trying to pin down the actual impacts of that predation. This gave rise to a just-completed study in Illinois, which tracked snake feeding on grassland bird nests. K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee reports on that research and its findings.

FORAGE SAFETY REMINDERS...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As producers begin the forage harvesting season, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk offers several safety reminders, including making sure the rollover protection structure on the tractor is in place, the loader is properly sized for the bales being moved and that extra precaution is taken when driving on slopes.

JASON WIEBE DAIRY...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A dairy in rural Kansas is producing cheese that’s being sold from coast to coast. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, explains how a third generation dairyman is adding value to his milk by making artisan cheese on his own farm.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Heading into the Memorial Day weekend, state climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, reports on Kansas agriculture weather.

BLUE EYES-BROWN EYES...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In 1968, a controversial exercise was undertaken by a group of grade school kids in Riceville, Iowa. It was the “blue eyes-brown eyes” exercise – an effort to provide some understanding of racism to a class of third graders…an effort that still has an impact today.

CONTINENTAL CLIMATE ZONE...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas is located in the Continental Climate Zone – which means the oceans and Great Lakes are so far away they have little tempering effect on our weather. As a result, state climatologist Mary Knapp says Kansas can be much hotter and colder than the coasts.

HIGH INTENSITY RAINFALL...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Generally, rainfall rates of half an inch per hour or greater are considered high intensity. But there are exceptions. For example, days where only a quarter of an inch of rainfall was recorded for the day, but there water was running in the streets. State climatologist Mary Knapp says that would qualify as high intensity if it occurred in a five minute downpour.

LOW AND HIGH PRESSURE...

Fri, 24 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

When forecasters talk about a low pressure or high pressure system, they’re referring to atmospheric pressure – the force exerted by the atmosphere over a particular point. It’s measured by various types of barometers and state climatologist Mary Knapp says what can make it confusing is that the pressure is reported as both station pressure and sea level pressure.

Porcine Epidemic Diarrhea Virus (PEDV)...

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Swine veterinarian Steve Dritz and veterinary researcher Sue Nitikanchana of K-State have the story on the new disease issue that has emerged for the U.S. pork industry, called porcine epidemic diarrhea virus, or PEDV...what it is and the pig losses it can cause, how it can spread rapidly, and what hog producers need to be doing in response to its discovery.

USDA microbiologist Bill Wilson...

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A microbiologist with the USDA's Center for Grain and Animal Health Research in Manhattan, Bill Wilson, talks about that center's research efforts addressing two livestock disease problems of great concern: blue tongue and rift valley fever, both of which can be issues for the cattle industry.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A look at the day's top agricultural news with K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson.

K-State horticulturist Ward Upham...

Thu, 23 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's horticulture segment, K-State horticulturist Ward Upham covers two problems associated with pine trees, mulching tomatoes and cabbage worms.

Kansas Ag Mediation Services Available to Help Producers and Lenders

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

On the face of it, the drought and late freeze in Kansas have been plenty hard enough, but the difficulties don’t end with smaller yields and lack of forage. They sometimes mean struggles when the bills come due.

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Jason Wiebe Dairy

Wed, 22 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Sharp. Extra sharp. Those terms might describe a pencil or a razor, but in this case, they describe flavors of cheese. Today we’ll learn about an innovative dairyman who is adding value to his milk by making artisan cheese on his own farm.

Weed management specialist Curt Thompson...

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State weed management specialist Curt Thompson discusses pre- and post-emergence control strategies for weeds on soon-to-be-planted grain sorghum acreage, stressing the need for a weed-free seedbed in which to plant the new crop...he'll go over the herbicide selections that have proven out well in K-State field trials.

K-State beef veterinarian Larry Hollis...

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef veterinarian Larry Hollis advises cattle producers that parasite problems may be even more evident in grazing herds this year, especially internal worm activity because of the short grass conditions...he talks about planning for additional control steps as the grazing season continues.

Agricultural news...

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at the day's top agricultural stories.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 22 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Food Pro Offers Tips to Save on Groceries

Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

While some express concern about rising food prices, others are unaware of how much they spend on food.

Agricultural Alumni Association Honors Three at Spring Event

Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The Kansas State University College of Agriculture Alumni Association recognized one of the founders of U.S. Premium Beef, a Kansas Wheat executive and a K-State entomologist for their contributions to agriculture and Kansas during its annual Wild for Ag events on May 4, at the K-State Alumni Center.

Bammerlin to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Flint Hills District

Tue, 21 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Lori Bammerlin will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Flint Hills District as a 4-H youth development and agriculture and natural resources agent, effective June 2.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at a new study of snake predation on grassland bird nests, which attempted to identify what habitat conditions prompt such nest depredation.

Agricultural policy specialist Brad Lubben...

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural policy specialist Brad Lubben of the University of Nebraska talks about the proposals for the commodity title of the new farm bill, now that the House and Senate agriculture committees have forwarded their versions to their respective floors...he comments on the possible outcomes on farm price supports and crop insurance.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at the day's top agricultural stories. Plus, this week's Milk Lines with K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk.

K-State Research and Extension Names Summer Interns

Mon, 20 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

K-State Research and Extension has named 13 students as 2013 summer interns. The interns will assist extension professionals in planning and implementing educational programs for Kansas residents.

Livestock economist Lee Schulz...

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Livestock economist Lee Schulz of Iowa State University provides this week's insight on the cattle markets: he goes over the implications of the USDA's latest cattle-on-feed report, and comments on the increasing relevance of corn planting progress to the cattle trade.

K-State beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner...

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner looks at some of the day-to-day management challenges at cattle feedlots, as were discussed at the recent K-State Cattle Feeders College...he also announces the winners of the Top Hand Awards for feedlot employees.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales with Kansas Forest Service forest health specialist Nicole Opbroek.

K-State 4-H events coordinator Sarah Keatley...

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, K-State 4-H events coordinator Sarah Keatley advises 4-Hers that it's not too early to check out the project entry requirements for the 2013 Kansas State Fair.

Field Day to Include Tree Planting, Riparian Area Management

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas landowners often have challenging decisions for managing woodlands, riparian areas and wildlife habitat on their property. The Kansas Forest Service, in conjunction with the Cottonwood River WRAPS (Watershed Restoration and Protection Strategy), will host a field day on Thursday, June 6 in Florence, Kan. to address several aspects of tree planting and woodland management.

K-State Animal Sciences Faculty Member Honored

Fri, 17 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University faculty member, Terry Houser, has been named a recipient of the American Meat Science Association’s Distinguished Achievement Award. He will be honored at the AMSA’s Reciprocal Meat Conference June 18 in Auburn, Ala.

ADDED SUGARS CONSUMPTION...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

According to information released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 13% of adults’ total caloric intakes between 2005 and 2010 came from added sugars. The findings by the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that more of the calories from added sugars came from food rather than beverages, more of the calories were consumed at home rather than away from home, and the mean percentage of total calories from added sugars decreased with increasing age and increasing income. On today’s Sound Living: a look at the consumption of added sugars among U.S. adults.

ASIAN BUSH HONEYSUCKLES...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Asian bush honeysuckles are a real problem in our community parks, woodlands and the more forested areas of Kansas, especially the eastern third of the state and near the Wichita area. These trees can grow so dense that they shade out everything on the woodland floor. This inhibits tree regeneration, essentially stopping forest succession. Kansas Forest Service health specialist Nicole Opbroek discusses how to identify and control these invasive shrubs.

EXPECT A TORNADO!...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Residents of a town in north central Kansas experienced a tornado on the same day for three consecutive years. State climatologist Mary Knapp says the tornadoes got stronger each year, causing more damage, injuries and eventually one fatality.

HEAT AND HUMIDITY...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansans often joke that “It’s not the heat, it’s the humidity.” But there’s actually a lot of truth to that statement. State climatologist Mary Knapp explains how the temperature and relative humidity are used to calculate the heat index.

STRANGE WIND FIELDS...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas City experienced one of its worst natural disasters in the spring of 1957. That’s when an F4 tornado moved through the suburbs, killing 44 and injuring more than 500. Following the tornado, state climatologist Mary Knapp says there was evidence of just how strange the wind fields can be during a tornado.

WHEAT DISEASE SITUATION...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This is the critical time to apply fungicides for leaf disease control and many growers are asking for more information about the wheat disease situation in the state. The wheat is heading and flowering in southeast and south central Kansas. Wheat in central Kansas is mostly in the boot stages of development. The wheat in southwest Kansas continues to struggle with drought and freeze damage and the growth stage varies widely among fields. Bill Spiegel has more.

BUTLER COUNTY – WHERE TO LIVE NOW...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A national magazine has named Butler County as one of Twenty Rural Counties to Call Home. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says there are many reasons why American Cowboy magazine chose Butler County as a desired rural location.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien focuses on current developments in international grain trade, including reports of corn and soybean imports into the U.S. from South America, as he offers his weekly analysis of the grain market trends.

K-State plant pathologist Frank White...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State plant pathologist Frank White reports on his ongoing research, which centers on making genetic adjustments in crop plants so that they may effectively ward off yield-robbing bacterial diseases.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the days' top stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, covers this week's Kansas agricultural weather.

WOODY BRUSH COVER...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Overly aggressive woody brush can overtake pastures and rangeland, seriously impairing grass growth. On the other hand, that brush serves as important habitat for upland game birds. And through practical management, that habitat can be preserved without sacrificing the grazing value of that land. So says K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee, as he talks about the principles of “patterned” brush management.

HAY HARVEST REMINDERS...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As the first harvest of hay for the year approaches, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk urges producers to exercise caution when baling – making sure the forage is not too wet, which can cause heating and decrease protein and carbohydrates. He also encourages producers to review their crop insurance to make sure they have adequate coverage.

SOCIAL MEDIA AND TRAGEDY...

Fri, 17 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In times of tragedy, what role can social media play? That’s an especially pertinent question for those doing social media marketing. For advertisers, what should be done after a tragedy like the deadly blasts at the Boston Marathon…or the October storm that took lives and devastated communities across the Northeast? According to one media expert, “Sometimes, saying nothing at all speaks volumes.”

K-State Recognizes ‘Top Hands’ at 2013 Cattle Feeders College

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University, in cooperation with Merck Animal Health, recognized Jesus (Jessie) Ramirez, Dean Patterson and Scott Plankenhorn as recipients of the “Top Hand” awards at the 2013 K-State Cattle Feeders College held May 9 in Scott City, Kansas.

Careers in Agricultural Sciences, Plant Pathology Are Focus of June 12 Program in Manhattan

Thu, 16 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Undergraduate college and high school students are invited to attend a free program Wednesday, June 12 in Manhattan to learn about the array of career possibilities in plant pathology and agricultural sciences in general.

K-State horticulturist Gregg Eyestone...

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Riley County Extension horticulture agent Gregg Eyestone talks about several aspects of planting annual garden flowers -- which will be done in earnest once soil temperatures are warm enough.

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State entomologist J.P. Michaud talks about the impact of the cold spring on likely insect pressure in row crops this summer, saying that the balance between damaging insects and beneficial insects has been thrown off-kilter.

K-State crops and soils specialist Doug Shoup...

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crops and soils specialist Doug Shoup talks about double-cropped forage on wheat ground following harvest, looking at the forage production attributes of several options, including forage sorghums, sudangrass, crabgrass and the so-called cover crops.

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor...

Tue, 14 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor offers this week's cattle market analysis: he shares his latest beef demand index calculations, which show a favorable beef consumption trend, and looks at central and northern plains pasture conditions and the potential impact on cattle numbers

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Wheat and corn production will take center stage at the Kansas State University Southeast Agricultural Research Center’s Spring Crops Field Day, Wednesday, May 22 near Parsons.

Kansas State University Researcher Leads International Team Comparing Genetic Code of Ancient and Modern Wheat Cultivars

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Eduard Akhunov knows that sometimes, in order to prepare for the future, we need to study the past.

The Kansas State University plant pathologist is leading an international team of researchers in comparing the genetic code of ancient wheat varieties to that of modern varieties with a goal of improving wheat for different growing conditions throughout the world.

Kansas Profile - Now That's Rural - Mary Jo Taylor - Stafford Entrepreneurship and Economic Development (SEED) Center

Wed, 01 May 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Planting seeds. That’s what gardeners do in the spring. Today in Kansas Profile, we’ll learn about a community which has a SEED Center – not for gardeners, but for young entrepreneurs. In another of our series on the community of Stafford, Kan., we’ll learn that this SEED Center is an acronym for an innovative entrepreneurial learning center and laboratory for youth, conducted by the Stafford school district.

Agricultural news...

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In today's agricultural news, K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer files a report from the second day of the Wheat Quality Council's Kansas winter wheat tour.

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen...

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen covers a recent Kansas Supreme Court ruling on a mineral rights case...in this instance, on the ownership of natural gas that migrated underground, and how the "rule of capture" comes into play.

Agricultural economist Vincent Amanor-Boadu...

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Vincent Amanor-Boadu comments on what U.S. agriculture has to gain from the trade agreement known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership...especially in light of the pending addition of Japan to the T-P-P.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Grain Science Honors Alumni, Service to Industry

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The Grain Science and Industry Department at Kansas State University recognized outstanding alumni and presented service awards at a ceremony on April 24.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at the nature of crows, and the facts about the crop damage they cause.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In today's agricultural news, K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer provides the first report from the Wheat Quality Council's Kansas wheat tour, which began early this morning. And, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk has this week's Milk Lines.

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth...

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth addresses alfalfa weevil management in the wake of the April freezes...he says that many weevils likely survived the cold temperatures, and that growers should continue monitoring their alfalfa stands.

K-State plant pathologist Jim Stack...

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State plant pathologist Jim Stack discusses the objective of new research, backed by a $5.5 million dollar grant from the USDA to K-State, which will study all facets of wheat blast disease: a pathogen which has weaked havoc with wheat production in South America...with the aim of preventing it from threatening wheat here and elsewhere.

K-State Researcher Gill on International Team that Builds Wheat Genome Physical Map

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

It’s hard to go anywhere without a map – especially into the deep and complex world of genetics. Now, Kansas State University researcher Bikram Gill and an international team of researchers have developed a physical map of wheat’s wild ancestor, Aegilops tauschii, commonly called goatgrass, as they take the first huge step toward sequencing the wheat genome – a complete look at wheat’s genetic matter.

Kansas’ PRIDE Communities Share Successes, How-to Ideas

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

It’s true: Many hands make light work, and Kansas communities – and their residents – stand to benefit.

K-State animal scientist Lindsey Hulbert...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State animal scientist Lindsey Hulbert talks about livestock industry efforts to counter the baseless attacks on livestock production from animal rights and other activist groups, and what her research experience suggests will help sway the public positively toward animal agriculture.

Livestock economist Kate Brooks...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Livestock economist Kate Brooks of the University of Nebraska provides this week's cattle market commentary: she talks about the impressive rise in cattle futures prices last week, and remarks about the reports of increasing U.S. beef sales in Japan.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson covers the day's top stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales from Bob Atchison with the Kansas Forest Service.

K-State 4-H specialist Deryl Waldren...

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H feature, K-State 4-H specialist Deryl Waldren talks about the series of local 4-H day camps coming up this spring and summer in the northwest part of the state.

April Freezes Causing Some Damage To Wheat Tillers and Lower Stems

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The repeated hard freezes in Kansas are taking a toll on some of the wheat furthest along in development, said Jim Shroyer, K-State Research and Extension crop production specialist. Temperatures were in the mid- to low-20s on the nights of April 23 and 24, which is low enough to damage wheat in more advanced growth stages, he said.

STAFFORD MERCANTILE...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A grassroots initiative to create a home-owned department store and another to save the local hospital demonstrates how teamwork and creative thinking can make a positive difference for that community and for all of rural America. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, shares this community’s remarkable story – a story that has made it all the way to the United States Senate chamber in Washington, D.C.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien looks ahead to next week's Kansas wheat crop tour, and the more-than-usual market clout that tour may present, as part of his weekly commentary on the grain market trends.

K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer talks about management of alfalfa stands that were hit hard by the series of hard freezes the last three weeks...the post-freeze plant regrowth producers should watch for, as an indicator of when to take the first cutting.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at today's top stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, reports on the Kansas agricultural weather scene.

THE POLITICS AND DANGERS OF TOXIC EXPOSURES...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The toxic effects of lead have been known for some time. Despite that knowledge we still have some half a million children in this country affected by lead. Out of this emerge two questions…why has this been allowed to happen and what other toxic substances are doing the very same thing?

MILKING PARLOR MAINTENANCE...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Many dairy farms in Kansas milk six-to-eight hours a day – with some milking more than 22 hours a day. The wear and tear on the equipment requires regular maintenance. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says producers should set up the regular maintenance schedule based on how many hours the parlor is actually used. He says it’s also important to address any milking parlor problems that surface before the next scheduled maintenance.

LESSER PRAIRIE CHICKEN PLAN...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Landowners and other interested parties have until September 30th to provide formal comments on the federal proposal to list the lesser prairie chicken as a threatened species. Kansas is one of the five states where this bird is found. And a “threatened” listing could lead to habitat management mandates unfavorable to the landowner. Wildlife authorities in those five states are working on a conservation plan that could possibly preclude the listing of the lesser prairie chicken. K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee talks about that plan.

SNACK ON FRUITS AND VEGETABLES...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It’s not enough to eat healthy food only at breakfast, lunch and dinner, we also need to be eating healthy snacks between those regular meals. K-State nutrition specialist Sandy Procter says this can be accomplished by planning our snacks and ultimately replacing pre-packaged, high-sugar, high-calorie foods with more fruits and vegetables.

SOIL INFILTRATION CAPACITY...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Streamside trees provide a number of benefits, including increasing soil infiltration capacity – the rate at which rainfall can enter the soil. A parking lot has the lowest soil infiltration capacity and a forest has the highest. Billy Beck, watershed forester with the Kansas Forest Service, explains how streamside trees reduce downstream flooding and help to recharge groundwater.

LIGHTNING AND BELLS DON’T MIX...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There are many folk remedies for protecting people and buildings from lightning. However, state climatologist Mary Knapp says to forget the folk remedies and concentrate on the modern safety rules if you want to avoid getting struck by lightning.

WHAT IS MEANT BY “TRAINING”?...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The word “training” is sometimes used to describe storms. But what does it mean? State climatologist Mary Knapp says training refers to storms that rebuild and move along the same path, often producing heavy rain.

DETERMINING TORNADO ALLEY...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tornado Alley is a term that identifies the area of the United States where tornadoes are most frequent. However, defining the boundaries of that area can get heated. State climatologist Mary Knapp says that’s because there are several ways tornado activity can be measured.

HARD WHEAT QUALITY TOUR...

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Participants in the Hard Wheat Quality Tour of Kansas wheat fields will get a first look at the impact that hard freezes the weeks of April 8th, 15th and 22nd will have on the 2013 Kansas wheat crop. Nearly 80 participants are expected to participate in this year's tour, which is hosted by the Wheat Quality Council and intended to give its members an understanding of the growth and development of the Kansas wheat crop, plus provide insight into yield and quality potential. Bill Spiegel reports.

K-State Crops Team Ends 2013 Spring Season on Strong Note

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

The Kansas State University Crops Team took second place in the North American Colleges and Teachers of Agriculture national crops contest held recently at Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. The team also competed in the Iowa State Invitational contest at Ames, Iowa in February and the Regional NACTA contest hosted at K-State in March.

KARL Training Ends on High Point in More Ways than One

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

A month after reaching the Andean mountaintop village of Patabamba, Peru at 15,000 feet and Machu Picchu at 8,000 feet – a class of 30 agriculture leaders hit another milestone – graduation.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson covers the day's top agricultural news stories.

USDA plant pathologist Bob Bowden...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A USDA plant pathologist based at K-State, Bob Bowden, talks about the ongoing battle against rust disease in wheat, as new races of rust have overcome the resistance built into several wheat varieties in recent years...his research focuses on finding new genetic answers to the problem.

University of Illinois weed scientist Pat Tranel...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A guest speaker at K-State's Department of Agronomy this week, University of Illinois weed scientist Pat Tranel, talks about his research work on waterhemp herbicide resistance: why this is such a difficult weed issue to contend with, and what it means for future management of this and other weed resistance problems at the farm level.

K-State horticulturist Ward Upham...

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's horticulture segment, K-State horticulturist Ward Upham looks at broadleaf weed control in lawns, and the likely extent of freeze damage to garden fruit plants.

Kansas State University Scientists Awarded $5.5 Million for Wheat and Rice Blast Research

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University researcher Barbara Valent and a team of colleagues have been awarded $5.5 million by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to develop novel disease control strategies for two closely-related diseases in rice and wheat – the latter of which has wreaked havoc in some South American wheat growing areas.

Kansas Profile – Now That’s Rural - Phyllis Hager – Stafford Mercantile

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

January 30, 2013. Washington, D.C. In the United States Senate chamber, one senator is describing the challenges facing a rural community and the way the citizens of that community rose to the challenge. This senator is talking about Stafford, Kansas, where citizens came together to create a home-owned department store of their own and also save the local hospital through a grass-roots initiative.

Wheat variety research grant...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The president of the Kansas Wheat Alliance, Daryl Strouts, talks about a just-announced list of wheat research grants made to K-State on the part of the alliance and its partnering organizations, amounting to over one million dollars of support for wheat variety development and other purposes...also, the communications director of Kansas Wheat, Bill Spiegel, looks ahead to the dedication and open house of the new Wheat Innovation Center at K-State this Friday.

K-State beef cattle specialist Dale Blasi...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef cattle specialist Dale Blasi talks about the slow green- up of native pastures this year, and what cow herd managers can do to maintain the nutrition level of the herd until there's grass available, given the acute shortage of harvested forages remaining.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Risk management specialist Art Barnaby...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State risk management specialist Art Barnaby comments on the recent administration proposal to make cuts to premium subsidies and other aspects of the crop insurance program, saying that policy makers need to study the true costs and returns of the program before making any rash budget decisions.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee has the details on an important webinar coming up next week for landowners, on the conservation plan for the lesser prairie chicken, as federal officials will decide this fall whether or not to list it as a threatened species.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top news stories. Plus, this week's Milk Lines with K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk.

K-State agronomist Randall Nelson...

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Randall Nelson reports on his field trials, evaluating the performance of drought-tolerant corn hybrids in areas of Kansas where water availability may, or may not, be limited...what they found was that these hybrids may be well suited to central and eastern, as well as western, Kansas.

Miller to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Butler County Office

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Charlene Miller will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Butler County office as a 4-H youth development agent, effective April 28.

Owen to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Kingman County Office

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 13:00:00 GMT

Michael Owen will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Kingman County office as an agriculture and natural resources agent, effective April 28.

K-State 4-H specialist Rod Buchele...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, K-State 4-H specialist Rod Buchele looks ahead to a special photography opportunity for 4-Hers -"Shutterbugs in the Garden" - coming up in Wichita May 4th.

LMIC director Jim Robb...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The director of the Livestock Marketing Information Center, Jim Robb, discusses the unexpected results of last Friday's USDA cattle-on-feed report, and analyzes the latest U.S. meat export numbers from the USDA, as the lead topics in this week's cattle market commentary.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales with Billy Beck of the Kansas Forest Service.

K-State wheat disease specialist Erick DeWolf...

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wheat disease specialist Erick DeWolf reports that the newly-updated K-State Wheat Fungicide Efficacy Ratings are now out, for wheat producers to use in making fungicide selection decisions...he also has the latest scouting report on disease threats to Kansas wheat.

PROTECTING AGAINST TOO MUCH SUN...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

It’s been a spring mostly absent of days that felt like summer. However, state climatologist Mary Knapp reminds us of the damage overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet or UV radiation can cause, including sunburn, skin cancer and cataracts. She discusses the precautions we can take to protect ourselves from overexposure to the sun.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In today's agricultural news segment, a student coordinator of Open House for the K-State College of Agriculture, Kara Swartzkopf, talks about some of the agriculture-related activities planned for the 2013 All-University Open House tomorrow on the campus. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien passes along his latest price probability outlook for wheat and corn, as the centerpiece of this week's grain market analysis.

K-State canola agronomist Mike Stamm...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State canola agronomist Mike Stamm talks about how well the canola crop in Kansas has endured the two rounds of freezing temperatures over the past two weeks...he also looks ahead to a series of K-State canola field days at numerous locations around Kansas over the next several weeks.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, reports on Kansas agricultural weather.

THE ADVANTAGE OF BEING WHITE...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

In 1920, W.E.B. DuBois wrote an essay called The Souls of White Folks. Within that early exploration of race, DuBois said: My poor, un-white thing! Weep not nor rage. I know, too well, that the curse of God lies heavy on you. Why? That is not for me to say, but be brave! Do your work in your lowly sphere, praying the good Lord that into heaven above, where all is love, you may, one day, be born--white! On today’s Perspective program a look at just what it means to be white today.

THE PETERSON FARM BROTHERS...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a parody music video about agriculture that went viral on the Internet, three brothers from rural Kansas have been making national news – including a trip to New York City to appear on FOX News. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, spotlights these young men and their advocacy for agriculture and rural Kansas.

ANTLER QUALITY STUDY...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Has the quest by hunters for “trophy” game over time had an impact on the size and quality of big game antlers and horns? That was the question that a recently released study sought to answer…and it analyzed over 100 years of game harvest data in doing so. The findings reveal some important things about present-day wildlife conservation efforts, according to K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee.

CHILDREN ARE RETURNING HOME...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

56 percent of men and 43 percent of women ages 18 to 24 live with one or both parents. And, an estimated 65 percent of college graduates are returning to live with their families, hoping for free room and board while they search for a job. While most parents are willing to let their children move back home, K-State Research and Extension family systems specialist Charlotte Shoup-Olsen says this type of living arrangement requires some ground rules.

CELEBRATING ARBOR DAY...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Arbor day, which started in Nebraska in 1872 and became a national holiday in 1882, is celebrated on the fourth Friday of April. This year’s observance falls on April 26th. Planting a tree is on Arbor Day is encouraged. However, according to state Extension forester Charles Barden with the Kansas Forest Service, there are many other ways to celebrate Arbor Day.

BRAZIL LOOKS FOR U.S. WHEAT...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Knowing that Argentina would fail to produce enough wheat to fill the country’s needs, wheat end-users from Brazil visited several stops in Kansas during a three-day tour last week intended to educate about the status of the Kansas wheat crop. U.S. Hard Red Winter wheat provides a good fit for the Brazilian end-use market. “The three participants wanted to see Kansas wheat,” said Aaron Harries, director of marketing for Kansas Wheat in Manhattan. “They were really interested in the 2012 crop quality, but also the prospects for 2013.” Bill Spiegel reports.

THUNDERCLOUDS OR THUNDERHEADS...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

During severe weather, most people are scanning the skies for cumulonimbus clouds. State climatologist Mary Knapp says these clouds, which form huge columns or towers that flatten at the top, are associated with thunder and lightning and closely associated with severe weather.

UNUSUAL SPRING SNOWFALL TOTALS...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Recent heavy snows in Wyoming, Nebraska and South Dakota made national news with snowfall totals of up to 18 inches. However, state climatologist Mary Knapp says the worst spring storm to hit the west occurred in 1958 and it was measured in feet.

EVAPORATIVE COOLING FOR COWS...

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A recent tour of dairy farms on the eastern side of the Midwest by K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk revealed some common problems with cooling cows. Some dairy operations lacked fans or had fans that were poorly positioned, feed line soakers were absent or improperly installed and there were too many systems that simply moved hot air over hot cows. Brouk thinks producers have forgotten the magic of putting water over the cow’s back to keep them cool. He discusses the benefits of evaporative cooling.

Cropping systems agronomist Kraig Roozeboom...

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State cropping systems agronomist Kraig Roozeboom comments on the corn planting delays caused by cool soil temperatures, and now, wet fields in parts of the state...he says there's still time to get that corn in the ground and expect good yields, but that the window will start to close very soon.

Horticultural entomologist Jim Nechols...

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's horticulture segment, K-State horticultural entomologist Jim Nechols reports on a new study of coddling moth activity in fruit orchards, which will lead to better guidelines on when to treat fruit trees for this damaging pest.

K-State poultry specialist Scott Beyer...

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State poultry specialist Scott Beyer discusses the effort to attract large-scale commercial poultry production to Kansas, which he believes could be a boon to struggling rural communities, as well as agricultural producers looking for an added income source...he's been serving as a technical adviser to state officials on this.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at the day's top agricultural news stories.

NRCS resource conservationist Chad Volkman...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A resource conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Chad Volkman, covers two new opportunities for Kansas landowners to obtain drought-related cost-share assistance: the Water Quantity and Drought Pilot program, which targets sediment removal from farm ponds, and the Drought Recovery Initiative, which addresses a broader array of grazing lands and livestock water concerns.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen..his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Prescribed burning smoke management plan...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For the final segment in the series on the prescribed burning smoke management plan in Kansas, K-State fire management specialist Jason Hartman talks about the formation of prescribed burning associations in Kansas, and the advantages they present.

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen...

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen cites two recently-decided Kansas court cases, each addressing a farm estate dispute, and illustrating the importance of thorough and detailed farm estate planning.

K-State plant pathologist John Leslie (1)...

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State plant pathologist John Leslie discusses the new, long-range strategic plan that has been drafted for the College of Agriculture and Research and Extension at K-State, as part of the university's overall "2025" campaign...what that plan addresses of relevance to Kansas agriculture and rural communities, and why off-campus input from agricultural producers and others is still needed.

K-State plant pathologist John Leslie (2)...

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee reports on a new study of trends in game antler and horn size and quality over the past 100 years, and how game harvesting has impacted those traits.

K-State agricultural economist Kevin Dhuyvetter...

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Kevin Dhuyvetter reports on national recognition that has been bestowed upon two of his Extension colleagues for their standout contributions to U.S. agriculture over the last 30 years...Art Barnaby and Barry Flinchbaugh. Also, this week's Milk Lines with K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk.

K-State 4-H specialist Beth Hinshaw...

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, K-State 4-H specialist Beth Hinshaw previews the 2013 Kansas 4-H Campference taking place in June, with spots for participating filling up rapidly.

Iowa State University livestock economist Lee Schulz...

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Iowa State University livestock economist Lee Schulz provides this week's cattle market commentary: he looks back on last week's USDA beef production projections, and talks about the ISU livestock "crush margin" information he compiles, and how cattle producers can use that to their operations' benefit.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson covers the day's top agricultural news. Plus, Bob Atchison with the Kansas Forest Service provides this week's Tree Tales.

K-State row crop disease specialist Doug Jardine...

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State row crop disease specialist Doug Jardine looks at the latest seed treatment recommendations for soybeans ahead of planting time, and talks about this being an ideal time for sampling corn fields for the corn nematode, which has become more of a pressing problem for growers in recent years.

SHEET AND HEAT LIGHTNING...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Sheet lightning and heat lightning both occur when lightning is diffused by clouds. With severe weather season here, state climatologist Mary Knapp explains the difference between the two types of lightning.

AVERAGE LAST FREEZE DATES...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The date for last freeze in southeast Kansas, which was April 8th, is the earliest average date for last freeze in Kansas. However, in northwest Kansas, the latest average date for last freeze isn’t until May 8th. State climatologist Mary Knapp says those are just average dates for the last freeze and that it’s possible for a freeze to occur in late May.

INNOVATION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As policymakers struggle to set federal funding priorities for the coming years and craft a new, five-year farm bill, wheat researchers, farmers, millers and bakers were on Capitol Hill together, pressing the importance of long-term and stable agriculture research funding. Nearly 30 stakeholders from every region of the country were in town for the wheat industry’s annual fly-in focusing on innovation in the public sector, which continues to produce the vast majority of new wheat varieties adapted to the challenges farmers face. Bill Spiegel reports.

KLINGENBERG FARMS STUDIOS...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A young Kansas farmer has found a creative outlet in creating music videos to post on the Internet. According to Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, the music videos focus on things closest to the musical artist: family and farm.

THE ELECTORAL COLLEGE...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Every four years, the United States chooses a President and Vice President. But what many tend to forget is that when we go to the polls to cast our ballot we are not actually electing the President and Vice President. The popular vote simply picks electors for the Electoral College. Critics of the College say it is simply undemocratic and using it gives swing states, the smaller states, unequal influence in the election process. The flip side is that the winner-take-all process favors the larger states.

2013 KANSAS DAIRY OF THE YEAR...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas State University and Kansas Farmer Magazine, sponsors of the annual Kansas Distinguished Dairyman of the Year award, has announced the recipient for 2013. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk highlights some of the many accomplishments this successful family dairy operation has achieved over the last 25 years.

K-State agricultural economist Troy Dumler...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Troy Dumler shares his latest analysis of the Average Crop Revenue Election farm program option for 2013 production, and whether it would be advantageous to Kansas producers compared to the direct payment route.

CONSERVATION TREE PLANTING...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Conservation tree plantings are used for wildlife habitat, windbreaks, wood lots, timber plantations and Christmas tree farms. The Kansas Forest Service Conservation Tree Planting Program offers landowners the opportunity to purchase trees and shrub seedlings, as well as other items for use in conservation plantings. On today’s Sound Living: the benefits of conservation trees and tips for planting ornamental trees in the home landscape.

2013 AGROFORESTRY FIELD DAY...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Kansas Forest Service is hosting the 2013 Agroforestry Field Day May 8th near Wakeeney in Trego County. Rural forestry program coordinator Bob Atchison says the purpose of the field day is to provide landowners, farmers, ranchers and natural resource professionals the opportunity to learn science-based information regarding the design, function, management and benefits of trees and shrubs within contemporary agricultural systems.

WINTER WEATHER IN SPRING...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The calendar says spring has arrived, but the weather can sometimes feel more like it is still winter. State climatologist Mary Knapp looks at two weather outbreaks that occurred in April that left residents of Hawaii and Colorado wondering what happened to spring.

K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Jim Shroyer tells how Kansas producers can determine the extent of freeze damage, if any, to winter wheat from this week's extremely cold weather in the central and western parts of the state. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, reports on the Kansas agricultural weather outlook.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien looks at the presumption of freeze damage to Central Plains winter wheat this week, and how the wheat market is reading that...he also talks about the grain market indications from this week's USDA World Agricultural Supply and Demand Report.

BEAVER AGRICULTURAL DAMAGE...

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Even in times of drought, beavers can cause damage to agricultural fields with their waterway structures and crop feeding. A recent study in Illinois sought to measure the typical geographic range of beavers, and what dictates the extent of their activity. The findings of that study have relevance to Kansas agricultural areas, according to K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee.

K-State agronomist Eric Adee...

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Eric Adee talks about a long-running research project on nutrient management for an irrigated corn-soybean crop rotation, using a biannual fertilization approach...this research has rendered useful information on what nutrients to emphasize in such a rotation.

Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at K-State...

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's K-State horticulture segment, the director of the Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at K-State, Judy O'Mara, returns...this time, to talk about the procedure for submitting a garden or landscape plant sample to the laboratory for diagnosis.

K-State beef cattle scientist John Jaeger...

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef cattle scientist John Jaeger has the rundown on the 99th annual Beef Research Roundup, at K-State's Agricultural Research Center at Hays, set for next Thursday, April 18th...he'll preview the presentations there on distillers dried grain management and pre-conditioning and weaning programs for beef calves, among other topics.

K-State veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek discusses an all-too-common problem that turned up in this latest beef calving season: an apparent vitamin A deficiency in cows, leading to stillborn or deformed calves...he talks about the situations that led to that.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

Prescribed Burning Smoke Management Plan...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week' installment on the Prescribed Burning Smoke Management Plan in Kansas, conservation program specialist Rod Winkler of the Farm Service Agency talks about burning as part of a C-R-P management plan.

Adrian Polansky, Farm Service Agency...

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The state director of the Farm Service Agency, Adrian Polansky, covers several USDA program items, including the impact of budget sequestration on the SURE program and direct payments to Kansas producers, and the forthcoming general Conservation Reserve Program sign-up.

K-State beef veterinarian Larry Hollis...

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef veterinarian Larry Hollis urges cow-calf producers to have a management contingency plan in place before turning the herd out on grass this spring, emphasizing the need for calf early-weaning and pre-conditioning strategies, even this early on.

livestock nutritionist E.R. Orskov...

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A guest speaker at K-State yesterday, world-renowned livestock nutritionist E.R. Orskov, offers thoughts on livestock nutrition management on a global scale, to meet the food needs of a rapidly growing population over the next few decades.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at a new study out of Illinois, of beaver damage to agricultural areas and the extent of their range.

K-State sheep and meat goat specialist Brian Faris...

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State sheep and meat goat specialist Brian Faris previews the 2013 Spring Production Tour for sheep and goat producers, taking place this Friday in the Manhattan area.

Ann Domsch, Operation: Military Kids...

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's 4-H feature, the coordinator of Operation: Military Kids for Kansas 4-H, Ann Domsch, looks ahead to "Purple Up" day next Monday, as a show of support for military families.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agricultural news director Eric Atkinson covers the latest agricultural news headlines. Plus, Bob Atchison, rural forestry program coordinator with the Kansas Forest Service, has this week's Tree Tales.

K-State meat scientist John Unruh...

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State meat scientist John Unruh reports on findings from a beef checkoff-sponsored research project, which tested two beef cuts for their potential as a premium ground beef product...the chuck roll and the knuckle...and how ground beef from these rates in shelf life and consumer preference.

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor...

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State livestock economist Glynn Tonsor provides this week's cattle market analysis: he goes over his latest feedlot cattle profit projections, which suggest positive returns for cattle feeders by late summer.

PHRASES FOR HEAVY RAIN...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Whether we say it’s a gully washer, frog strangler or raining cats and dogs, there are a number of phrases used to describe heavy rainfall. State climatologist Mary Knapp explains why those various phrases are used.

VIRGA: EVAPORATING RAIN...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Burt Bacharach won an Oscar in 1969 for the song Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head from the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Did you know it’s possible for raindrops to fall, but not hit your head? State climatologist Mary Knapp says not all raindrops make it to the ground. This is called virga.

SEEING SIGNS OF IMPROVEMENT...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Across the state, the 2013 wheat crop is perking up and showing slight signs of improvement from the poor stands of past fall. In its April 1 Crop Progress Report, Kansas Agricultural Statistics rated the wheat crop at 2% excellent and 29% good. That's a slight improvement over the prior week. The crop's development is a little behind the long-term average, as just 13% of it has jointed, compared to a five-year average of 22%. Despite slight improvement, the wheat crop still ranks as the fourth worst in Kansas history at this point in the growing season. On the farms of Kansas wheat leaders, the crop ranges in condition from very good, to very poor.

NICK GERETY – GERETY TRACTOR...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A tractor rolling across a field is a common sight in rural Kansas, where tractors and farm equipment are a significant part of daily life and the rural economy. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says a lifelong interest in tractors is helping a rural entrepreneur build an equipment-trading business – with a little help from modern technology.

CAUSES AND CONSEQUENCES OF POVERTY...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Few Americans realize that the United States doesn’t do very well when ranked against other developed countries around the world for its standard of living. In fact, the U.S. ranks 17th out of 22 countries in what is called the Human Poverty Index. Sweden tops the list, while the U.S. follows such countries as Finland, Canada, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom.

PREPARE FOR SUMMER NOW...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Although spring has been relatively cool, hot summer weather isn’t far off. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says there are several things dairy producers can do now to help avoid summer slump in milk production. He covers several of the steps that can be taken before the summer heat arrives.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien offers his latest insight on the grain markets: he looks ahead to the USDA's World Agricultural Supply and Demand report coming out next week, and what guidance those new grain stocks numbers might give to the grain trades.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas Secretary of Agriculture Dale Rodman comments on the announcement yesterday that virtually all of the functions of the Kansas Department of Agriculture currently located in Topeka will be moving to the K-State campus next summer. Also, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather data Library at K-State, reports on Kansas agricultural weather.

KANGAROO RAT CONTROL...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

They may appear to be only a minor nuisance…but when kangaroo rats colonize in isolated parts of a crop field, they can wreak havoc with a newly planted crop. In those locations where kangaroo rat activity is evident, pre-plant control may be warranted, according to K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee. This week, he describes the problem and the available solutions.

PREPARING TO LEAVE IN A HURRY...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We never know when or where a tornado, severe thunderstorm, fire, flood or other natural disaster is going to occur. These incidents serve as a reminder that homeowners and renters need to have their important papers, documents, photos and household inventory of possessions in more than one location.

FOREST LAND LOST TO CROPS...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

High prices for corn, soybeans and wheat are great for the Kansas economy, but not so good for the woodlands and forests that follow streams and rivers. Bob Atchison, rural forestry program coordinator with the Kansas Forest Service, says significant areas of forest land are being converted to crop land. He explains how this conversion adversely affects water quality and quantity issues facing the state.

TWO TYPES OF FLOODING...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Severe weather season in Kansas has arrived. Tornadoes – because of the damage they can cause and the potential for loss of life – often get most of the attention when talking about weather-related safety measures. However, state climatologist Mary Knapp says we should also be aware of the dangers associated with flooding.

K-State beef cattle specialist Dale Blasi...

Fri, 05 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State beef cattle specialist Dale Blasi tells of a new study he oversaw last year, evaluating the impact of using insecticidal ear tags on the growth performance of stocker calves on native grass.

K-State crop nutrient specialist Dorivar Ruiz-Diaz...

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop nutrient specialist Dorivar Ruiz-Diaz discusses the situations in which a foliar-applied nitrogen product could benefit the winter wheat crop...he compares the foliar applications to the more traditional nitrogen products.

Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory...

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's horticulture segment, director of the Plant Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at K-State, Judy O'Mara, talks about disease prevention steps to take early in the home gardening season.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news stories.

NRCS resource conservationist Chad Volkman...

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A resource conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Chad Volkman, covers two more conservation assistance opportunities for Kansas landowners: the Working Lands for Wildlife program for developing lesser prairie chicken habitat, and the Water Quality Initiative which has been approved for three watersheds in Kansas...application deadlines for both programs are coming up soon.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth...

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop entomologist Jeff Whitworth offers his first input of the season on alfalfa weevil control, telling growers that it's too early to pull the trigger on weevil insecticide treatments...he'll also comment on current aphid activity in wheat stands.

Agricultual law specialist Roger McEowen...

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agricultural law specialist Roger McEowen goes over several recent court rulings of interest to agricultural producers, including one on the taxable status of stock paid out to insurance policy holders when an insurance company "demutualizes", and another on how a theft loss should be handled as a tax deduction.

Prescribed Burning Smoke Management Plan...

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's segment on the prescribed burning smoke management plan in Kansas, Brian Obermeyer of The Nature Conservancy talks about the concept of patch burning pastures: under what circumstances it can this be a beneficial grass management tool, and how it rates in smoke output compared to full burning.

K-State animal scientist K.C. Olson...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State animal scientist K.C. Olson comments on making grazing management decisions this year, with the understanding that the drought has already hampered this year's grass production...he advises grazing managers to lighten up significantly on stocking rates.

Southern Plains Drought Summit...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Further remarks on putting together a drought management plan for pastures, as shared at K-State's Southern Plains Drought Summit last week: K-State beef systems specialist Justin Waggoner talks about options for supplemental feeding cattle on summer grass, and K-State beef cattle scientist John Jaeger stresses the importance of monitoring the body condition scores of the grazing cow herd this year.

Agricultural news...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top stories. Plus, K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk has this week's Milk Lines.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at controlling kangaroo rats in crop fields ahead of planting time, to prevent them from consuming newly-planted crop seed.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson looks at the day's top agricultural news stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales from Bob Atchison of the Kansas Forest Service.

K-State range scientist Keith Harmoney...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

From the Southern Plains Drought Summit last week, K-State range scientist Keith Harmoney talks about planning cattle stocking programs for this grazing season with the drought impacts in mind:
he compares the current situation to past droughts in Kansas, and what history tells us about managing those stocking rates.

Livestock economist Derrell Peel...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Livestock economist Derrell Peel of Oklahoma State University provides this week's cattle market analysis: he comments on the spillover effect of the USDA's surprising grain stocks report last week on the cattle complex, and how supportive the resulting drop in feedgrain prices could be for cattle prices in the longer term.

K-State 4-H specialist Rod Buchele...

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, K-State 4-H specialist Rod Buchele announces that registrations are being taking for the 2013 4-H Photo Adventure Camp coming up in June.

WHEAT DISEASE THREATS...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As the 2013 Kansas wheat crop begins to break dormancy, wheat producers need to be cautious about wheat disease threats moving in from southern states. K-State plant pathologist Erick De Wolf says there are already several reports of rust developing in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Mississippi. Stripe rust has been observed in all four states and appears to be spreading beyond the initial foci of infection. Leaf rust has been reported in Texas, but not the other states. Bill Spiegel has more.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State radio Network's Jeff Wichman has today's agricultural news, including this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, reports on the Kansas agricultural weather scene.

PUT YOUR TAX REFUND TO WORK...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Internal Revenue Service reported that it expects 147 million individual 2012 tax returns to be filed. It also estimates about 75 percent of taxpayers who file will receive a refund. But, how those refunds are used might say a lot about how we approach our finances. On today’s Sound Living: a K-State Research and Extension family resource management specialist discusses some of the best ways to use tax refunds to improve our financial situation.

A THRIVING FORESTRY INDUSTRY...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

There is a lot we can learn about the forestry industry in Kansas. For example, its economic benefits are staggering. Kansas Forest Service rural forestry program coordinator Bob Atchison says the state’s forestry industry contributes 1.5 billion dollars to the Kansas economy, supports over 6.700 jobs and has a payroll of 360 million dollars.

APRIL FOOL’S DAY WEATHER...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The weather on April Fool’s Day can sometimes seem like a cruel trick. There have been several memorable weather events on April 1st. State climatologist Mary Knapp says one weather event was particularly cruel.

A SUPER TORNADO OUTBREAK...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

April 3rd is the anniversary of one of the worst tornado outbreaks in U.S. history. State climatologist Mary Knapp says 184 tornadoes were recorded from Michigan to Alabama.

RAIN BRINGS BLOOMING PLANTS...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The combination of rain in April and the warmer weather in May tends to bring about an abundance of blooming plants. State climatologist Mary Knapp says that’s why there’s a lot of truth to the saying “April showers bring May flowers.”

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien reflects on the numbers from the USDA's prospective plantings and grain stocks reports released Thursday morning, and their longer-term impact on the grain price trends, as the central topic of this week's grain market analysis.

Jason Lamprecht, Kansas Agricultural Statistics...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State statistician Jason Lamprecht of Kansas Agricultural Statistics follows up with an overview of the Kansas numbers from the USDA prospective plantings report, which indicate that grain sorghum production will expand in the state this year, as corn and soybean acres decline from last year.

JOAN NOTHERN – GLASCO...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The corner store. Many towns have those typical, traditional stores on the corner of main street. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says a corner store was recently repurposed by a community foundation which is pursuing several strategies to keep the community viable.

LIVESTOCK FEEDERS AND RODENTS...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Though no livestock producer really wants to think about it, the fact is rodents cost livestock feeding operations millions of dollars each year. Norway rats are the greatest offenders, according to K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee. This week, he outlines a multi-step approach to contending with rat damage at a livestock feeding facility.

LOWERING SOMATIC CELL COUNTS...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Dairy producers, including those in Kansas and the region, have been steadily making progress in increasing milk quality by reducing bulk tank somatic cell counts. This can be difficult, but it can also be financially rewarding. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk (brook) says somatic cell counts under 100,000 have been achieved – and he wonders how low they can go?

DEALING WITH THE U.S. CONSTITUTION...

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Many Americans see the U.S. Constitution and issues arising from it in black and white. They often insist the writers of that hallowed document are on their side…that the document has all the answers for today’s problems. One author and historical researcher says that is simply not the case…that what many folks want bears little relation to historical facts.

Agricultural news...

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the day's top agricultural news.

K-State horticulturist Gregg Eyestone...

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Riley County Extension horticulture agent Gregg Eyestone talks about how to manage the weather delay in starting home vegetable gardening this spring. He also offers advice for pruning roses.

NRCS resource conservationist Chad Volkman...

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A resource conservationist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service state office, Chad Volkman, has information on three options under the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), with a deadline for applying approaching soon: the On-Farm Energy Incentive, the Organic Incentive, and the Seasonal High-Tunnel Incentive.

K-State agronomy guest speaker Marc Albertsen...

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A guest speaker at K-State's Department of Agronomy this week: a senior crop genetics researcher from DuPont-Pioneer, Marc Albertsen, discusses the major advances in crop biology and agronomic traits over his 31 years of research, and talks about what's ahead in crop seed technology.

Bovine reproductive physiologist Jeff Stevenson...

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State bovine reproductive physiologist Jeff Stevenson talks about an alternate means of preg-checking beef and dairy cows...a chemical pregnancy test, which he believes is an important advance for cattle producers.

Stop, Look and Listen...

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State's Gus van der Hoeven presents Stop, Look and Listen...his weekly commentary on rural Kansas.

K-State plant physiologist Mary Beth Kirkham...

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State plant physiologist Mary Beth Kirkham reports on her new analysis of elevated carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, and the resulting impact on water use by common crop plants...this study finds that wheat and grain sorghum water use efficiency actually improves as CO2 levels rise.

Prescribed burning smoke management plan...

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's installment on the prescribed burning smoke management plan in Kansas, a respiratory physician with Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Dr. Jay Portnoy, discusses the health consequences of smoke from pasture burning, and comments on the effort to manage that smoke.

Veterinary scientist Scott McVey...

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

A veterinary scientist with the USDA's Center for Grain and Animal Health Research in Manhattan, Scott McVey, talks about several insect-borne livestock disease issues that he and his staff are currently researching, including a tandem of diseases carried by midges that could threaten cattle herds: blue tongue and E-H-D.

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee...

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee looks at controlling rodent damage in livestock feeding facilities, concentrating on the problems brought on by rat infestations.

K-State weed management specialist Curt Thompson...

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State weed management specialist Curt Thompson goes over the findings from K-State herbicide field trials on controlling kochia in early spring, in advance of planting row crops as well as on fallow ground to be planted to wheat this fall...he talks about the herbicide combinations that allow the grower to avoid resistance problems with kochia.

K-State crop nutrient specialist Dave Mengel...

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State crop nutrient specialist Dave Mengel talks about conducting a starter fertilizer program for the new corn crop, keying on soil fertility levels, the tillage system, and the placement of the starter product.

LMIC director Jim Robb...

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The director of the Livestock Marketing Information Center, Jim Robb, comments on the surprisingly bullish USDA cattle-on-feed report released last Friday, and on the outlook for red meat exports for the remainder of 2013, as he provides this week's analysis of the cattle markets.

Agricultural news...

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson reports on the top news stories. Plus, this week's Tree Tales with forest health specialist Nicole Opbroek with the Kansas Forest Service.

Ann Domsch, Operation: Military Kids...

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

For this week's Kansas 4-H segment, the coordinator of the Operation: Military Kids program, Ann Domsch, looks at what 4-H members and groups can do in support of local military families during April, which is the Month of the Military Child.

KATHY FOX – PRAY...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas is often referred to as the “Bible Belt” so it should come as no surprise that an effort called PRAY – Project Rescue of Amazon Youth – was founded in 1999 by three women with Kansas connections. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, explains how PRAY is helping children in Brazil who are living in abject poverty with no home, food or healthcare.

K-State agricultural economist Dan OBrien...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien previews next week's USDA prospective plantings report and it's potential influence on grain prices trends...he also talks about the market impact of increased wheat feeding to livestock in the central plains, as corn supplies have run low.

IGP associate director Mark Fowler...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The associate director of the International Grains Program at K-State, Mark Fowler, reports on the latest I-G-P activities in promoting Kansas grain sales abroad...among other things, he talks about the new trend in private grain processing companies bringing their personnel in to I-G-P for training.

Agricultural news...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

K-State Radio Network agriculture director Eric Atkinson has today's top agricultural news stories. Plus, this week's Wheat Scoop from Kansas Wheat.

State climatologist Mary Knapp...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

State climatologist Mary Knapp, director of the Weather Data Library at K-State, provides the weekly look at Kansas agriculture weather.

CAN HEALTHCARE LEARN FROM AVIATION?...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Over 100,000 people die every year in hospitals from preventable medical errors or infections – and at least one-and-a-half million are somehow hurt. A journalist and healthcare expert says those numbers could be changed dramatically if the medical community adopted a system used by the airline industry…Crew Resource Management.

ALFALFA WEEVIL MANAGEMENT...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Alfalfa is an expensive crop and dairy producers who raise their own alfalfa can help control feed costs. However, alfalfa weevils can damage the crop and reduce profitability. As a result, producers should be scouting fields for early signs of alfalfa weevils. K-State dairy specialist Mike Brouk says researchers at K-State have developed an equation that calculates growing degree days for alfalfa weevils.

BACKYARD POND CARE...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Raising fish in backyard ponds has become a popular feature of many home landscapes in recent years. Now is the time for homeowners to “de-winterize” their backyard ponds, according to K-State wildlife specialist Charlie Lee. This week, he goes over several maintenance steps leading to another spring and summer of good-quality habitat for koi and other ornamental pond species.

SHOPPING AND PRICE LISTS...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

On last week’s Sound Living, K-State Research and Extension nutrition specialist Mary Meck Higgins discussed how preparing more meals at home reduce food costs. This week, she covers two more strategies for cutting food costs at the grocery store: making and using a shopping list and making a price list of commonly bought food items.

INDICATIONS OF OAK DECLINE...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Many landowners have been noticing periodic decline of oak trees in their woodlands. This occurs when several factors converge, including advancing tree age, site conditions, climate, fungi and insect attacks. Kansas Forest Service health specialist Nicole Opbroek says there are clear signs of oak decline and that thinning and making timber stand improvements will help keep woodlands healthy by reducing stock and competition for moisture and nutrients.

IDENTIFYING AIR MASSES...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

An air mass primarily refers to a body of air with uniform properties that developed over a specific area of the globe. State climatologist Mary Knapp says the region where an air mass forms helps identify its properties.

A BIG ROLE IN KANSAS AG WEEK...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Kansas Wheat played a major role in the celebration of Kansas Ag Week, March 12th-19th, as the agriculture industry was recognized by consumers and industry. Bill Spiegel reports on the many activities Kansas Wheat participated in during Kansas Ag Week.

THUNDERSTORM WINDS...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tornadoes get a lot of attention, but thunderstorm winds are typically more frequent and cause more damage. State climatologist Mary Knapp says two of the most damaging winds associated with thunderstorms are straight-line winds and downbursts.

WINTERTIME JET STREAM...

Fri, 22 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Madden-Julian Oscillation, which has a much shorter cycle than a normal El Nino cycle, can strongly affect the wintertime jet stream and atmospheric circulation features over the North Pacific and western North America. State climatologist Mary Knapp explains how this impacts winter weather in the United States.

"In the News" July 2012 Archive

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:00:00 GMT

K-State Vet, Livestock Specialist Discuss Swine Gestation Stalls
7-2-12 - Barn OnAir & OnLine - Steve Dritz & Joel DeRouchey
Recent news that some major U.S. restaurant chains, including McDonald’s, will phase out buying of pork supplied by producers who use gestation stalls for pregnant sows has sparked conversation and concern among pork producers as well as consumers.

"In the News" June 2012 Archive

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Knowledge for Life: You can become a food master at extension class
6-1-12 - Leavenworth Times - Denise Sullivan
If you enjoy food, love to cook, are interested in nutrition, and want to "master" your culinary skills while enhancing the nutritional status of our community, then the Master Food Volunteer Program might just be for you.

"In The News" August 2012 Archive

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 14:00:00 GMT

Climate expert Browning-Garriss is featured speaker at K-State Beef Conference
8-1-12 - Midwest Producer - Larry Hollis
Drought conditions coupled with record-breaking heat are forcing difficult management decisions on beef operations across the country this summer.

Agriculture Today Radio Program Thursday, December 13

Thu, 13 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

The administrator of the Kansas Farm Management Association at K-State, Kevin Herbel, discusses a variety of farm management topics: he tells how producers can make use of the new Kansas Farm Enterprise Profit Center Summary the association has just released; he also talks about the uncertain future of the estate tax rules, and how this impacts farm estate planning; and he offers some thoughts on last-minute, end-of-year farm income tax management. See more

Agriculture Today Radio Program Friday, December 7

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

K-State agricultural economist Dan O'Brien talks about the impact of low water flow in the Mississippi River on corn and soybean prices here in the central plains, as part of his grain market analysis and commentary this week. See more

Agriculture Today Radio Program Thursday, December 6

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

K-State agronomist Kraig Roozeboom discusses cropping systems that promote water use efficiency, centering on cropping intensity, selection and management...he suggests that farmers think about flexible crop rotations that can respond to changes in water availability. See more

Agriculture Today Radio Program Wednesday, December 5

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

K-State row crop disease specialist Doug Jardine talks about a new soybean disease problem that has turned up, called soybean vein necrosis: what it is, the damage it causes, and if it's something that Kansas soybean growers need to consider as they make their variety selections for next year. See more

Upcoming Horticultural and Agricultural Events

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

K-State Research and Extension and/or its Extension Master Gardeners are participating in the following area and statewide horticultural events, available to all interested persons. For more information about these, as well as more localized events, check with your local K-State Research and Extension office.

Agriculture Today Radio Program Monday, December 3

Mon, 03 Dec 2012 14:00:00 GMT

Livestock economist Derrell Peel of Oklahoma State University offers this week's insight on the cattle markets: he looks at the bump in
retail beef demand ahead of the New Year's holiday, and how long that will last in the market, and shares his profitability outlooks for
cow-calf, stocker and feedlot producers in 2013.

Laib to Join Staff of K-State Research and Extension Shawnee County Office

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 14:00:00 GMT

MANHATTAN, Kan. - Sarah Laib will join the staff of the K-State Research and Extension Shawnee County office as a 4-H youth development agent, effective Jan. 25.

Is it Done Yet? Food Pro Gives Baking Tips

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 14:00:00 GMT

MANHATTAN, Kan. – One of the dilemmas that first time and even veteran bakers encounter is in determining when a baked product is done.