Pasture & Range Information

'Normal' Hard to Define When it Comes to Rain by Chuck Coffey
We lived through a significant drought in 2006. Some much-needed winter precipitation has lessened our fears, but some forecasts still call for drier than "normal" weather starting in May. Normal? Who knows what "normal" is?

1996-97 Comparison of Planting Dates for Rye, Oat, Wheat &Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1996-97.

1996-97 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yield comparisons of different varieties of ryegrass for 1996-97.

1997 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 1997.

1997-98 Cool Season Grass Trials by Jerry Baker
Trials and evaluation of Cool Season Grass 1997-98.

1997-98 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Wheat, & Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1997-98.

1997-98 ForageYields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yield comparisons of different varieties of ryegrass for 1997-98.

1997-98 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Wheat, Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1997-98.

1998 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 1998.

1998-1999 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Wheat and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yield comparisons of small grain varieties for 1998-99.

1998-99 Comparison of Planting Dates for Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of the comparison of planting dates for small grain varieties for 1998-99.

1998-99 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yield comparisons of different varieties of ryegrass for 1998-99.

1998-99 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Wheat, Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1998-99.

1999 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Strains and Varieties by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 1999.

1999-2000 Comparison of Planting Dates for Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Comparison of planting dates for small grain varieties for 1999-2000.

1999-2000 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of small grains for 1999-2000.

1999-2000 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields from different ryegrass varieties for 1999-2000.

1999-2000 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Tables listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains for 1999-2000.

2000 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass for 2000.

2000-2001 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from bermuedagrass for 2000-2001.

2000-2001 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from rye, oat, wheat, and triticale for 2000-2001.

2000-2001 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from Ryegrass for 2000-2001.

2000-2001 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Grain yields fro Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale for 2000-2001.

2001 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Bermudagrass forage yields for 2001.

2001-2002 Comparison of Planting Dates for Rye, Oat, Wheat and Triticale Varieties and Strains by R.L. Dalrymple
This information on bermudagrass-weeping lovegrass mixtures was first compiled from research-plot and grazier-pasture information and published in 1976. Although we are racing to the end of the millennium, this updated version is still valid.

2001-2002 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Barley, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from rye, oat, wheat, barley, and triticale for 2001-2002.

2001-2002 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from Ryegrass for 2001-2002.

2001-2002 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Barley, Wheat and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Grain yields for Rye, Oat, Wheat, and Triticale for 2001-2002

2002 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 2002.

2002-2003 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Barley, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 2002-2003.

2002-2003 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from Ryegrass for 2002-2003.

2002-2003 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Oat, Barley, Wheat, and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Grain yields for Rye, Oat, Barley, Wheat, and Triticale for 2002-2003.

2003 Forage Yields from Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 2003.

2003 Forage Yields from Ryegrass Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of ryegrass in 2003.

2003-2004 Forage Yields from Rye, Wheat, Triticale, Oat, and Barley Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Summary of yield comparisons of small grain varieties for 2003-2004.

2003-2004 Grain Yields and Estimated Returns from Rye, Wheat, Triticale, Oat, and Barley Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Booklet listing grain yields and estimated returns from small grains varieties for 2003-2004.

2004-2005 Forage Yields from Rye, Oat, Wheat and Triticale Varieties and Strains by Jerry Baker
Forage yields from rye, oat, wheat, and triticale for 2004-2005.

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Pounds (of Forage) by Matt Mattox and Chan Glidewell
The photos in this article depict bermudagrass and annual ryegrass with different heights and densities along with the actual production values (pounds/acre) for these plots – these examples should help producers "calibrate their eyes" and/or give them a reference for a known quantity of forage per acre to compare to their specific situations to more accurately determine forage production.

A Process Verification Study for Spring Grazeout Wheat Pasture Calves: Year One of a Three-Year Study by Chuck Coffey and Dan Childs
Interest in calf preconditioning and source and process verification has grown in response to value-based marketing. This study seeks to determine the health and performance effects of the Oklahoma Quality Beef Network preconditioning and process-verification system for stocker cattle.

A Weed Wiper is Good for You, Bad For Weeds by Jim Johnson
Many people are unfamiliar with wiper or wick applicators. The concept is simple. Herbicide solution is supplied to an absorbent surface. The herbicide soaked surface only contacts weeds taller than the crop. Chemical is transferred to the surface of the weeds as the applicator "wipes" over them.

Alfalfa Is 'Almost Permanent' Pasture by Hugh Aljoe
In recent years, grazing-type alfalfa varieties have been released, providing opportunities to livestock operations as a low-input, high-return forage, if managed properly; stands typically could last three to five years with good management.

Alfalfa: Not Just Another Pretty Hay by Hugh Aljoe
Alfalfa's value as a hay or feed supplement is well recognized, but its usefulness as a grazing forage is often overlooked.

An Integrated, Homemade, Portable Salt/Mineral Feeder and External Parasite Control Cattle Rub Tool by R.L. Dalrymple
The details of homemade construction and management of a combination portable feeder and external parasite control cattle rub tool are covered in this publication.

Are You In The Right Ballpark? by Matt Mattox
The "ballparking" method can make judging proper pasture use a little more interesting.

Are You Working Your Pastures "Hard" or "Smart"? by Hugh Aljoe
12 ratings:
To determine if you are working your pastures hard or smart, consider your pasture and grazing plan. What was your plan this spring?

At the Mercy of the Weather by Wadell Altom
A fertilization study was conducted on bermudagrass grown at the Noble Foundation's Pasture Demonstration Farm. Our data shows a definite relationship between rainfall and forage production and suggests that rainfall received during the growing season is critical.

Avoid A Crisis Due to Drought by Chuck Coffey
Hindsight is always "20/20" but droughts should be considered normal because they will occur either regionally or locally and they cannot be avoided. Therefore, it is essential for you to make plans in advance.

Bermudagrass and Weeping Lovegrass - Mixtures for Forage by R.L. Dalrymple
Explains the advantages and techniques of incorporating Weeping Lovegrass into Bermudagrass pasture.

Bermudagrass Blues by Matt Mattox
Drought and heavy grazing pressure have weakened many bermudagrass stands. Here are some steps you can take to improve bermudagrass production.

Bermudagrass Establishment by Rod Reed
Establishment of bermudagrass is a major expense. Care should be taken to do everything possible to ensure success.

Bermudagrass Variety Evaluation by Jerry Baker
Bermudagrass is widely adapted and serves as the primary forage base for many livestock producers in southern Oklahoma and north Texas. Evaluation of its varieties has been an integral part of the Noble Foundation's forage testing program since 1967.

Bloat by Charles Griffith
Bloat can be a problem in cattle grazing high quality grasses and legumes. Bloat problems will vary with species of animals and among individuals of the same species.

Boys will be Boys...and Cows will be Cows by Matt Mattox
The old adage "Boys will be boys" can be modified to apply to cattle: boys are influenced by their friends, and cattle are influenced by their herd mates; boys find the easiest way to do something, so do cattle. Understanding cattle behavior can benefit a grazing operation.

Can Drought be Predicted? by Chuck Coffey
Precision prediction of drought is not feasible yet – but drought is a regular occurrence and managers should have a plan to overcome at least a short-term seasonal drought.

Cause and Effect by Charles Griffith
Agricultural producers are confronted with persistent production problems that cost much time and money. We often attack symptoms and never get to the nitty-gritty of the land resource management that's causing the problem.

Choosing a Nitrogen Source for Fall - Topdressing Small Grain by Jerry Rogers
If you want fall-early winter small-grain forage production, you can choose the nitrogen source for topdressing fall small-grain pasture by cost, availability and convenience.

Clearing Up Some Tall Fescue Misconceptions by James Rogers
9 ratings:
Across the nation, tall fescue covers some 35 million acres making it one of the most popular forages in the country. Unfortunately, for many people the mere mention of tall fescue brings an automatic dismissal conjuring up bad experiences with poor animal performance or lack of persistence. There are a lot of negative feelings that need to be overcome before tall fescue becomes an accepted option.

Consider These Items Before Spraying by Eddie Funderburg
Spring has arrived, and many ranchers' thoughts turn to killing weeds. Before you hook up the trusty (or in some cases, rusty) sprayer and give 'er a go, think about the these things.

Considerations to Reduce Further Effects of Drought on Your Operation by Matt Mattox
Fires in Oklahoma and Texas and record-low rainfall have caused many people who earn a living on the land to make decisions they have not faced in many years. Here are some items for producers to think about as they formulate drought-management plans

Continued Stress from Drought by Jim Schaffer
Drought is a topic on every tongue in our service area. I've recently visited with several producers who have made plans to manage through this drought. But the length and severity of this dry spell is affecting everyone and is very serious for many.

Controlling Livestock Distribution by Charles Griffith
Dividing a land resource with fencing into paddocks gives the operator control over livestock and allows him to allocate their grazing over a set period of time. How to fence a land resource can become a major issue, and thought and consideration must be given to establishing a fencing plan.

Cool Season Legume Establishment by Charles Griffith
Often legume seed are planted into perennial grasses without thought to the management needs of the legume being planted. We have a tendency to manage grass to its fullest potential with external inputs that are contrary to the management needs of the legume.

Crabgrass for Forage: Management from the 1990s by R.L. Dalrymple
Results of 26 years of research using crabgrass as a forage.

Crabgrass Seed Characteristics by R.L. Dalrymple and Bret Flatt
Crabgrass is increasingly used in planned, on purpose, forage, conservation and wildlife food systems. The initial stand may result from managing for volunteer or from planting seed of a naturalized ("native") crabgrass or the "Red River" variety.

Creep Grazing Accesses in Electric Fences by R.L. Dalrymple
Most of our rotational grazings employ one wire, high powered, low impedance, electric fences. This report is on the various creep grazing accesses we have tried with these fences and management of the creep grazing technique.

Creep Grazing Techniques Can Benefit Cattle Operations by Hugh Aljoe
Creep grazing calves is a management practice allowing calves to graze designated areas - separately from the cows - where the forage quality is higher than the grazing pasture.

Do Your Forage Selection Homework by James Rogers
There are lots of shiny advertisements in the popular press for forages that sound like the best thing to come along since ice cream, washing machines or any other item that has improved mankind. Before buying into fancy sounding claims for forage selection, follow the homework assignment given in this article.

Does Conservation Farming Pay for Winter Forage Production? by Jon Biermacher and Chuck Coffey
3 ratings:
Over the past two decades, winter forage producers have been asking researchers if conservation farming practices are more economical than conventional practices. Studies dating back to mid-1980 have sought answers to these questions.

Don't Overlook Johnsongrass in Your Pasture by Chan Glidewell
8 ratings:
Livestock producers in the southern Great Plains should not overlook johnsongrass in their pastures. For one thing, under certain conditions it can kill your cattle. Another reason not to overlook johnsongrass is that it is excellent forage - if you can get over the fact that it can kill your cattle!

Don't Rely on Weather Predictions in 2004 - Use These Strategies Instead by Chuck Coffey
I've thrown my crystal ball away for good and vowed never to predict the weather again – but I will share with you my five weather-related strategies for 2004.

Don't Use Calendar Dates to Terminate Wheat Grazing by Jeff Ball
Using a calendar date to pull cattle off wheat pasture is risky because a number of variables affect jointing, including weather conditions, variety and planting date. To avoid grain yield loss, all grazing should stop at first hollow stem or "jointing."

Dung Beetles by Charles Griffith
4 ratings:
Dung Beetles are biological control agents for horn flies and intestinal parasites. They destroy the habitat for other insects and internal parasites to complete their life cycle.

Eastern Gamagrass Update at the Coffey Ranch by Hugh Aljoe
8 ratings:
This past summer, through the efforts of James Pitman, the 2007 pasture and range intern, and Frank Motal, wildlife and range research program supervisor, the Agricultural Division was able to collect data on the transects in what we refer to as "the eastern gamagrass paddocks" or Pasture 12 of the Coffey Ranch.

Ecotype-Derived White Clover Cultivars and Their Place in the Southern Great Plains by Joe Bouton
White clover is the most widely used cool-season pasture legume throughout the world due to its aggressive running stems, called stolons, and its excellent reseeding ability. Can cultivars available to producers in the southeast U.S. be adapted for the southern Great Plains?

Effects of Limit Grazing on Animal Performance by Chuck Coffey and Devlon Ford
7 ratings:
Forage availability is frequently a limiting factor during the fall in winter annual grazing systems. Limit grazing has the potential to stretch limited, high quality forage resources further without depressing animal performance.

Establishing Native Grass by Matt Mattox
5 ratings:
High fertilizer prices, the aesthetics of a rangeland prairie setting versus a monoculture forage base, and advantageous government cost-share programs have led to many acres being planted to native grass or rangeland over the past five to 10 years. Fall is a good time to look further into the pros and cons of this practice to prepare for the spring growing season.

Evaluation of Methods Used to Predict Supplemental Feeding Needs for Cattle by Matt Mattox
A summary of a two year project to help ranchers improve their managerial efficiency by using technology to control the cost of one of the most expensive production items: supplemental feeding.

Evaluation of Warm-Season Perennial Grasses by James Rogers
A study to assist producers with decision aids in the selection of warm-season perennial grasses.

Explore Forage Alternatives in Southern Plains Pecan Orchards by Matt Mattox
In contrast to pecan production in the southwest, most of the pecan orchards in this region also consist of a base forage, giving producers the benefit of having multiple enterprises.

Extending the Grazing Season: It's Not Too Late by James Rogers
The growing season is winding down, but from a forage production standpoint, an active growing season still lies ahead.

Fall-Winter Forage Performance Update of Small Grains in Noble Foundation Tests, 1996-97 by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1996-97.

Feed Value of Crabgrass Seed and Management Characteristics of 'Red River' Crabgrass Seed for Planted and Volunteer Stands by R.L. Dalrymple and Bret Flatt
Explains the feed value of crabgrass seed and how to manage seed for planting.

Fertility Management of Bermudagrass by Rod Reed
Well-fertilized bermudagrass can provide more grazing than most other warmseason grasses. However, bermudagrass is not as productive or persistent under low fertility as other grasses.

Fertilization Helps Increase the Efficiency of Rainfall by Wade Thomason
Proper fertilization affects the efficiency with which bermudagrass uses rainfall during the growing season.

Follow This Checklist for Growing Winter Pasture by Eddie Funderburg
Most winter pasture fields are planted in late August or early September to optimize the potential for getting grazing in the fall; having a plan made beforehand can eliminate possible mistakes at planting time.

Following Guidelines could Maximize Winter Pasture Production by Chuck Coffey
It's time to begin preparations for planting winter pasture in the fall, and following some suggestions regarding planting date, fertilization and seeding rates can help your pastures reach maximum production potential.

Forage Flow by Chuck Coffey
It's time for you to begin estimating your forage supply/demand for the livestock you wish to support this year on warm-season forages.

Forage Observations: Looking Back & Thinking Ahead by Chuck Coffey
Hopefully, we won't have to live through another year like 1998 in the near future but it always pays to plan ahead. And because droughts are a normal occurrence in our business, we should always have a plan to offset their severity.

Forage Production and Utilization - A Major Economic Industry for Our Region by Chuck Coffey
With 1.2 million head of cattle utilizing forages within a 100-mile radius of Ardmore, OK, there is significant potential to increase the economic returns from these forages by improving the quantity and quality of existing forages, learning how to more efficiently utilize forages, scrutinizing the cost of production of each forage enterprise, and developing alternative forage systems.

Forage Resource Management and Integration by Chuck Coffey
To better understand forages and integration, let's look at the energy requirements for plant growth, how plant manufacture food, factors affecting a plant's response to grazing, management for sustainability and integrating forage resources.

Forage Testing Provides Useful Information by Hugh Aljoe
3 ratings:
Much of the hay baled this spring was either mature when hayed or may have been rained on during the haying process. Therefore, testing the quality of your hay becomes extremely important. Some hays will require little, if any, supplement, and other hays will require substantial supplementation to meet the nutritional requirements of the livestock being fed.

Forage Yields from 2005 Bermudagrass Varieties and Strains by John Guretzky
Summary of yields obtained from different varieties of bermudagrass in 2005.

Forage Yields from 2006-2007 Annual Ryegrass Variety Trial by John Guretzky
In an effort to assist producers in Oklahoma and Texas judge variety performance, the Noble Foundation has held trials to determine forage yields of commercially available varieties and advanced experimental strains of annual ryegrass.

Forage Yields from 2006-2007 Small Grains Variety Trial by John Guretzky
In an effort to assist producers in Oklahoma and Texas judge variety performance, the Noble Foundation has held field trials to determine forage and grain yields of commercially available varieties and advanced experimental lines of small grains.

Forage Yields from 2007-2008 Annual Ryegrass Variety Trial by John Guretzky and Shawn Norton
In an effort to assist producers in Oklahoma and Texas judge variety performance, the Noble Foundation has held trials to determine forage yields of commercially available varieties and advanced experimental strains of annual ryegrass.

Forage Yields from 2007-2008 Small Grains Variety Trial by John Guretzky , Jerry Baker and Shawn Norton
In an effort to assist producers in Oklahoma and Texas judge variety performance, the Noble Foundation has held field trials to determine forage and grain yields of commercially available varieties and advanced experimental lines of small grains.

Forage Yields of Small Grains in Noble Foundation Tests, 1996-97 by Jerry Baker
Table listing grain yields and estimated returns for small grains varieties for 1996-97.

From the Farm: December, 2001 by Russ Gentry
Hay feeding and handling techniques used on Noble Foundation farms.

From Weeds to Forbs by Chuck Coffey
Let's not be too hasty to kill weeds until we know what we are eliminating and evaluate the costs.

Get Legumes in the Mix by James Rogers
Now that it's January, the time for seeding legumes is fast approaching, with many species falling into a spring seeding window from March to April.

Getting More Out of Less by James Rogers
12 ratings:
Getting more out of less is an attractive concept in tough economic times. In 2008, average cow costs ran around $534 per head including depreciation - averages can be deceiving.

Getting More Out of Your Grass by Matt Mattox
Over the past several years there have been numerous articles, testimonials, seminars, presentations, and short courses on grazing management. The audience for these efforts all work within a unique set of conditions, including rainfall amount and distribution, vegetation, terrain, time constraints, etc.

Give Your Pastures Some Rest by Chan Glidewell
13 ratings:
Precipitation drives pasture improvement, so if you improve the condition of your pastures and rangelands when it does rain, it will help you get through those times when it doesn't. One method of pasture improvement is to provide growing season rest.

Gone Native by Matt Mattox
The past several growing seasons have been pretty tough on many ranchers in southern Oklahoma and northern Texas. Drought has caused many of the "good" native grasses in native grass plant communities to decline or die out. Where little bluestem and indiangrass once were, three-awn (ticklegrass), tumblegrass, and silver bluestem have established, not to mention high populations of ragweed, broomweed, bitterweed, and the like.

Good Management Forms Great Habits by Matt Mattox
4 ratings:
In this age, we are all bombarded with a large amount of information every day. How you filter for the good information, and then decide what to do with it, is the key to making the information work for you.

Got Lime? by Jim Johnson
There are some things to consider when purchasing lime. The two most important are the calcium carbonate equivalent (CCE) and the fineness efficiency.

Grass Burs by Hugh Aljoe
Why are there so many grass burs in the bermudagrass pastures this year? What can be done to inhibit the grass burs this spring? These two questions were posed by many producers this past fall. Not only is this a good time to ponder these questions, it is also the right time of year to develop a plan of action.

Grass Mechanics 101 by Matt Mattox
When you compare forage yields, you find that all grass is not created equal. However, when you look closely at grasses, you find that they all have the same parts.

Grass Seed Production by Andy Hopkins
Grass seed production is an important agricultural enterprise. This article examines some of the legal and technical aspects.

Grazing Management - Looking Forward and Back by Chan Glidewell
7 ratings:
Grasslands are complex environments comprised of many different kinds of living organisms affected by abiotic factors such as weather. There are few things that are black and white in such complex ecosystems, but there may be some self-evident "truths." If you haven't considered them in your grazing operation, perhaps you should.

Grazing Stick Instruction Manual by James Rogers
How to use a grazing stick, a tool used to estimate standing dry matter.

Grazing Systems by Larry Keenan
Grazing systems employ the basics of grazing management to help producers accomplish their operational goals. Depending on what grazing system you choose, you may improve pasture conditions, increase forage use, or enhance livestock production.

Grazing Winter Pasture by Chuck Coffey
Tips to recognize when winter pasture is ready to graze and how to calculate the number of animals a pasture will support.

Hay is for Horses by Chuck Coffey
Many people consider feeding hay to be a necessary cost in any livestock operation. But do they really know the actual cost of substituting hay for a lack or absence of forage in their pastures?

Hay Is for Horses, But Pasture is Too! by Hugh Aljoe
Forages are an essential component of a horse's diet, because they need it to help prevent digestion problems. Additionally, an adequate quantity of good-quality forage can minimize feed expenses, which is usually the single highest cost of owning a horse.

Hay Quality Impacted by Five Factors by Chuck Coffey
Of all the feedstuffs livestock consume, hay is probably one of the most variable in terms of quality. What are the factors affecting the quality of hay?

Here's A New Kind of 'B.S.' Degree by Matt Mattox
Cattle producers have used consistency of manure to make pasture rotation decisions for years – here's an explanation of how to estimate forage quality based on manure consistency.

Hold On To Your Grass by Matt Mattox
7 ratings:
The growing season of 2007 brought much needed range recovery in many areas of the country. To characterize the improvement of some rangeland from poor to very good within a single growing season would be an understatement in many cases. The amount and timing of the rainfall in 2007 was very unusual and very infrequent for most areas.

Homemade Mineral Feeder/Cattle Rub by R.L. Dalrymple
This composite tool is good for external parasite control, animal nutrition, grazing management, and is very grazier friendly in our rotational grazing unit.

Horse Forage and Forage Management by R.L. Dalrymple
Information compiled explaining types of forage and management of pastures for horses.

How Bad Is It? by Chuck Coffey
The dry summer and fall last year, combined with this year's drought has set the stage for an abundant "weed crop" in 1999 due to a lack of forage produced this fall. The $64 question is, "What should you do, if anything, about all these weeds?"

How Do You Stay in the Upper "Range" of Things? by Matt Mattox
Many areas of north Texas and southern Oklahoma rangeland have improved dramatically in terms of species composition and forage production. What can we do to keep it that way?

How Does Tifton 85 Measure Up? by Hugh Aljoe
In 1996, the Noble Foundation's Dr. Jerry Baker established a bermudagrass variety trial near Ardmore, Okla. Since then, Baker has been producing annual reports presenting forage yields for bermudagrass varieties in the test. As producers begin considering sprigging options, variety trial information is often discussed. Tifton 85 is one variety that receives much interest because it is always one of the highest-yielding varieties.

How is a Forage Variety Developed? by Andy Hopkins
A plant breeder's job is to develop varieties that are truly "new and improved." I hope this article will give you an idea of how this is done.

How Much Does it Cost to Burn? by Russell Stevens and Hugh Aljoe
Estimates the cost of a controlled burn including labor, materials, and liability with cost comparisons.

How Much Does It Cost to Mow Weeds? by Jeff Ball
Have you ever stopped to think about what it costs to mow a pasture? Mowing is costly, and pastures that have weed problems this late in the growing season have no chance for optimum weed control.

How Much Grass Have I Got? by Ron Mitchell
October is a good month to take a little stroll through the pastures and get a handle on how much grass there is in front of the cows. October marks the beginning of autumn when our warm season grasses quit growing, and the grass on hand is what the cows are going to winter on.

Indicator Plants by Charles Griffith
Lanceleaf ragweed, Western ragweed, and Annual broomweed are the most frequent forbs that we have to deal with in pasture management. We should look on the presence of high populations of these plants in our pastures as indicators that something is not right in the management of our forage resource.

Is There a Niche for Eastern Gamagrass in Southern Oklahoma? by Matt Mattox
Eastern gamagrass was a component of plant communities primarily in the eastern half of Oklahoma prior to European settlement and can still be found in areas not subjected to grazing pressure. This native grass is capable of producing forage of high quantity and quality – however, lack of producer familiarity, high seed costs and necessary grazing management practices have reduced the acceptance of eastern gamagrass in this region.

Is Your Hay Cut Right but Baled Wrong? by James Rogers
Hay baled at a too-high moisture content can have decreased digestibility and significant increases in fiber concentrations and heat-damaged nitrogen.

It's Time to Estimate Available Forage by Chuck Coffey
If you have enough forage to last until the spring of 1998, then all you need to do is develop a supplementation program. However, most of us are not in this situation and will have to feed hay or grow additional forage.

It's Time to Think About Warm-Season Grasses by Hugh Aljoe
It's time to prepare for your spring plantings, if you have not already done so. Here are some of my thoughts for you to ponder — some based on research, some on observation, some on experience and all open to discussion!

July is Critical in Forage Decision Making by Hugh Aljoe
Pastures should have a surplus of forage as of mid-July, either as standing forage or hay – if reserves are not adequate to pasture cattle through the remainder of the growing season, then alternatives need to be evaluated.

Keep an Eye on Your Keys by Matt Mattox
When key forage species get overgrazed, forbs (weeds) or less desirable species will take their place.

Know Your Grasses by Chuck Coffey and Russell Stevens
Here are numerous photographs of grasses common to our area. How many can you identify?

Legumes - More Valuable Now Than Ever by James Rogers
12 ratings:
An increasingly common question asked by cooperators is "How many cows can I run if I don't fertilize anything"? Legumes can provide an alternative to nitrogen fertilization, but they require a much higher degree of management.

Limit Grazing Studied by Chuck Coffey
In this project, we are evaluating the effects of limit grazing and method of limit grazing on animal performance, forage utilization and grazing enterprise profitability by comparing the effectiveness of every-other-day winter annual grazing, daily restricted grazing intervals and ad-libitum grazing.

Limit Winter Grazing as Protein Supplement by Hugh Aljoe
Producers frequently ask, "How long and how often should I allow cattle to graze winter pasture to meet their nutrient requirements?" We initiated research to gain some insight into this dilemma.

Limit-Grazing Winter Pasture by Cattle as a Means of Providing Supplementary Protein by Hugh Aljoe
New results from a study to develop limit-grazing guidelines to prevent dietary deficiencies during winter feeding programs with small grains as a protein supplement.

Limit-Grazing Winter Pasture with Mature Cattle by Hugh Aljoe
In limit-grazing situations when managed properly, winter pasture can be used by mature cattle very efficiently – as a protein supplement.

Livestock Distribution by Chuck Coffey
This concise fact sheet details one of the key principles of grazing management: proper livestock distribution.

Looking For The "Silver Bullet" In Our Forage Arsenal by Hugh Aljoe
Though there are no "super forages," growers can select from many options in order to find the best fit for their operation.

Low-Input Overseeding by R.L. Dalrymple
Explains how to manage equipment and time/labor input and planting management requirements when overseeding.

Making an Informed Seed Purchase by Andy Hopkins
Knowledge is power. This adage can be applied to purchasing decisions, whether regarding buying a house, seed, or fencing wire. After you read this article, you should be able to make a "powerful" decision the next time you purchase seed.

Manage Forage Before (and During) Drought by James Rogers
Are you flexible enough to manage for that unspeakable term ... drought?

Manage In 'Segments' to Make It to Spring by James Rogers
Forage producers with grazing livestock have just come through two of the worst growing seasons most folks can remember. Let's break that down into manageable segments: September to frost, frost to March and March to May. There are management strategies for each segment that can help stretch forage and keep managers in control instead of just reacting to a limited forage situation.

Management Guidelines Can Help Improve Pasture Condition, Optimize Forage Utilization by Chuck Coffey
General management strategies for maintaining or improving the condition of your pastures while optimizing forage utilization by livestock.

Management of Annual Ryegrass by Rod Reed
Ryegrasses are productive, high quality cool season forages that are either perennial or annual in their growth. The ability of annual ryegrass to reseed itself is evident as we drive down the roads or see it in pastures that have not been recently seeded. Annual ryegrass can be managed to reseed under grazing with proper management.

Native Grass - Use (some of) It, Or Lose It by Matt Mattox
This article will focus on increasing harvest efficiency on rangelands or native grass communities. Harvest efficiency is the percentage of forage grown in a year or growing season that is actually consumed by livestock.

Never Get Lost Again... by Russ Gentry
How many times have you been fertilizing and wondered if you were too wide or too close with the pattern the fertilizer rig was throwing? The Noble Foundation recently purchased a new piece of equipment to alleviate the stress of wondering "Where am I?"

New Forage Bermudagrass Variety by Jerry Baker
The name of the new bermudagrass, previously referred to as 74x21-6, will be Midland 99. Oklahoma State University, the developer of the variety, is cooperating with the Noble Foundation, the USDA, and experiment stations in Missouri, Arkansas, and Kansas in jointly releasing this new pasture grass variety.

New Plant Image Gallery Search Engine Makes Plant ID Easier by Chuck Coffey
Since its launch in 1997, the Noble Foundation's popular online Plant Image Gallery has helped thousands of natural resource managers, ecologists, students and homeowners who are seeking to identify plants. Now, Noble is pleased to announce some upgrades to the site that will make plant identification faster and easier.

Nitrogen Fertilizer Giveaway by Hugh Aljoe and Jim Johnson
Conservative estimates are that legumes can provide 20 to 80 pounds of nitrogen per acre during a growing season after the establishment year. Here we discuss the overseeding of legumes into pastures.

Noble Foundation Sources for Plant Identification by Chuck Coffey and Russell Stevens
11 ratings:
The plants that surround us are often overlooked in the day-to-day routines of many. In fact, most people have no idea of the types of plants that exist in the field.

Old World Bluestem: Planting, Stand Establishment, and Early Stand Production Management, with Considerations for Other Grasses by R.L. Dalrymple
Compiles experiences, controlled demonstrations, and technical research about Old World Bluestem and other warm season grasses.

Online Tools for Grazing Managers by Chuck Coffey
The Noble Foundation has introduced online calculators to assist grazing managers.

Opportunities to Meet Tough Times by Charles Griffith
The early and mid-eighties were bad times in production agriculture. We saw many producers go out of business. Here we are today with the same picture. Has this happened because we are so efficient and do not need as many farmers?

Organizations Provide Useful Resources for Farmers, Ranchers by Matt Mattox
In agriculture, it is important to stay current with technology and research, network with others in the field and discover the resources out there for farmers and rancher.

Pasture Prognosticator Self-help Guide by Hugh Aljoe
5 ratings:
Have you ever wanted to predict the future? Now you can and, best of all, the tool to do so is free on the Noble Foundation Web site.

Pay Me Now or Pay Me Later by Matt Mattox
Pasture maintenance is much the same as vehicle maintenance – if you want your pastures to be productive over an acceptable time frame, you must pay attention to details, just like you should with your vehicle.

Performance of Cool Season Forage Grasses in Noble Foundation Tests, 1996-97 by Jerry Baker
Trials and evaluation of Cool Season Grass 1996-97.

Performance of Forage Bermudagrass Varieties in Noble Foundation Tests, 1997 by Jerry Baker
Summary from different varieties of bermudagrass in 1997.

Phosphorus Levels Can Affect Nitrogen's Impact on Forage Production by James Rogers
A lack of phosphorus in the soil directly affects forage production.

Plan for Success with Legumes by Hugh Aljoe
5 ratings:
"Just because something can be done does not necessarily mean it should be done" might apply if you are considering planting legumes this fall. September is the time to plant alfalfa and the time to plant clovers comes soon after. Are you really prepared or should you actually be preparing for next year?

Plan For Winter Pasture During Summer's Heat by Hugh Aljoe
Planting season for winter pasture is rapidly approaching, and, after the lack of rainfall in our geographic region last fall and winter, there will be less cereal rye and wheat seed available this year. Therefore, if you have not located a source of seed for winter pasture, you'd better start now and reserve your needs as soon as possible.

Plan Now to Manage the Key Species in Native Pastures by Hugh Aljoe
Now is the perfect time to begin planning how to manage native grass pastures for this season, and much of the planning depends on the goals for the pasture and exactly what there is to work with.

Planning for Fall and Winter Forage by Chuck Coffey
4 ratings:
Those of us who planted winter pasture this September are enjoying excellent pasture conditions with stocking rates of 400-600 pounds of beef per acre. This is likely the best fall you have seen since 1994.

Plant Identification Is Key in Understanding Land's Health by Chuck Coffey
Managing land resources requires a keen awareness of the ecosystem, as well as practical knowledge of the tools available to manipulate these resources.

Plant Variety Protection Law Enforcement Stepped Up: What Can You Do? by Jim Johnson
What does the plant variety protection (PVP) and seed law mean to you? It means it is not legal to buy, sell or trade a PVP-protected variety or plant it without the proper paperwork.

Preparations for Spring by Chuck Coffey
Winter is here again and many of us have already been supplementing our cattle for 60 or more days. The drought we experienced this summer drastically reduced the quantity of forage we typically have going into the winter.

Preparing for Spring Pasture by Chuck Coffey
Guidelines for producing early spring pasture.

Proceedings of the First Weeping Lovegrass Symposium by R.L. Dalrymple
Conference proceedings from the April 1970 conference.

Producers Should take Advantage of Tall Fescue for Winter Feeding by James Rogers
Stockpiled tall fescue is an alternative source of nutrients for cattle.

Project Could Help Reduce Drought's Impact on Producers by Matt Mattox
Drought is a dirty word around these parts. A project between the Noble Foundation and Texas A&M University hopes to help regional producers with a system to forecast probable forage growth conditions up to 90 days in the future.

Protect Yourself from High N Fertilizer Costs by Jeff Ball
This fall, the price of natural gas will not change much, and therefore N fertilizer prices will not be impacted. However, next spring it may.

Rain Effects on Hay by James Rogers and Robert Wells
8 ratings:
Weather has created challenges for hay production in both 2006 and 2007. Last year, in 2006, little hay was put up on the southern plains because of drought. The first half of this year brought abundant rainfall, with June being one of the wettest months on record in many parts of Oklahoma and Texas, but these wet conditions create new challenges that we should be aware of as either producers or consumers of hay.

Rain... Rain... and More Rain by Chuck Coffey
13 ratings:
What a tremendous year 2007 has been for forage growth. Plants that have been drought-stressed in past years are finally beginning to recover. However, it will most likely take more than one growing season to make up lost ground.

Rainfall Trends Will Affect Winter Pasture by Chuck Coffey
6 ratings:
We saw limited moisture in the fall, no rain during the winter and late rains in April to finally kick off the spring growing season 30 to 45 days behind schedule. If rainfall were a traded commodity, volatility in the marketplace would be extremely high.

Recent Effective Rains Have Benefitted Forage by Chuck Coffey
The term "effective precipitation" means precipitation which is actually captured in the soil profile and available for plant growth.

Reflections on Troubled Times by Jim Schaffer
I've spent considerable time this summer visiting with cooperators. Partly it was to assess how they were doing; partly it was to determine how we were doing delivering our services and to see how we might improve. I couldn't have picked a more difficult time for those I visited.

Remember These Drought Management Strategies During the Rest of the Summer by Hugh Aljoe
Unless we have an atypically wet summer, many producers will be forced to implement some drought management strategies, if they have not already. Here are a couple of topics to keep in mind looking forward to the remaining summer.

RHD Helps Predict Forage Supply Relative to Livestock Demand by Hugh Aljoe
For ranchers who use rotational grazing and spend time in their pastures with the cattle, there is a reliable way of predicting future forage supply relative to livestock demand. The method is called the Reserve Herd Day (RHD) concept, and it is credited to retired Foundation forage specialist R.L. Dalrymple.

RHD Method Can Help Producers Assess Fall Forage Supplies by Hugh Aljoe
The reserve herd day (RHD) calculation method gives an accurate estimate of how much forage is available in a certain pasture and how long it will last.

Rotational Grazing - Get in the Ballgame by Matt Mattox
There are basically two schools of thought when it comes to grazing management: continuous grazing and rotational grazing. While there are some variations among these methods, this article will deal with basic principles of these two approaches. With either system, the forage must meet the nutritional demands of the livestock.

Same Ol' Song, Different Verse by Matt Mattox
The weather cycle has been unforgiving for several years throughout southern Oklahoma and northern Texas, with little rainfall from late spring through summer. Here are some suggestions to help you adjust your herd structure, letting you weather drought better.

Sampling Hay and Standing Forage by Hugh Aljoe
Explains how to take a good forage sample for nutrient testing.

Sericea Lespedeza – The 'Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde' of Plants? by James Rogers
Sericea lespedeza is a native of eastern Asia and can trace its roots in the United States back to 1896, when it was first planted by the North Carolina Agricultural Experiment Station.

Sericea Lespedeza - A Friend or Foe? by Charles Griffith
Sericea lespedeza is a deep rooted drought tolerant perennial legume that was introduced in the upper south region of the United States from Japan in the late 1890's. Sericea became important as a low quality forage plant in the 1920's and 1930's when it was used for pasture and erosion control.

So You Want to Rotationally Graze... by Hugh Aljoe
With the spring season approaching, pasture management issues are foremost in producers' minds. Fertility, herbicide treatments, pasture establishment and, for some, setting up a rotational grazing system are such issues.

Start Planning Now for Effective Bermudagrass Pasture Weed Control by James Locke
Weeds reduce yields by competing with grass for available sunlight, nutrients and water; drive up costs by reducing fertilizer use efficiency and requiring additional inputs; reduce forage quality and palatability; lower nutrient content and could even be toxic. The question is, what are you going to do about it?

Stocker Cattle: A Rapid Receiving and Controlled Stress Program by R.L. Dalrymple
I have been of the opinion for a long time that "usual" stocker cattle purchasing, receiving, medicating, etc., has contributed to increased stocker cattle and people stress and thus more stocker cattle sickness, death loss and poor performance during early pasturing.

Stockpiling Bermudagrass for Late Fall/Winter Grazing by Jeff Ball
Now is the time to start thinking about forage management for next fall and winter. Whenever winter forage management is discussed, most people think of feeding hay or utilizing small grain pasture. Have you ever considered using bermudagrass as dry-standing forage from late November though January? In most years, when conditions are right it can easily be done.

Study Looks at Effect of Forage Source on Backgrounding by Chuck Coffey
Stockpiled bermudagrass is a viable alternative to feeding hay to steers after weaning or receiving and prior to winter grazing.

Sustainable Agriculture by Charles Griffith
Sustainable agriculture is defined as maintaining the present without compromising the future. It got its real definition from Congress in the 1990 Farm Bill.

Take Care of Your Hay, It Has Value by James Rogers
7 ratings:
Not long ago, cheap commodity prices made it easy to look at hay as just filler. Nutritional deficiencies could be inexpensively corrected by feeding a supplement. Those days are gone, and quality hay has real value when compared to a commodity feed, but the value is in nutritional quality.

Take Steps to Reduce Risks Involved in Planting, Sprigging by Matt Mattox
2006 was one of the driest growing seasons on record, low rainfall translated to less forage production, low hay production, overgrazing and, in some cases, total stand losses.

Taking Stock "Of" Your Pastures by Hugh Aljoe
The dry summers and mild winters of the past few years have adversely affected warm season forage production. Now is a good time to assess pasture condition.

Tall Fescue is Usually a Preferred Forage by Hugh Aljoe
Since the beginning of the year, I have had several calls about Tall fescue. Some were asking about varieties to plant, the best time to plant or fertilize, etc. But I had one caller from eastern Oklahoma ask why we (forage specialists) do not like Tall fescue.

The Costs of Hay Waste Add Up by James Rogers
Much of the value of hay production is not captured due to feeding and storage losses, which add up to $3 billion nationwide.

The Haying Season Has Arrived by Hugh Aljoe
For many livestock producers, the haying season has arrived. It is now a race against time to reach hay production goals and capture some level of forage quality in the process.

The Oklahoma Forage and Grazing Council and the American Forage and Grassland Council by R.L. Dalrymple
I have been a member of the AFGC longer than I know. Why? Because it is the single best national professional organization dealing primarily with introduced forages and grazing livestock at both the producer and "professor" level in the U.S.

Think About Putting Away Pasture for the Winter by Hugh Aljoe
The question is, "Are your pastures ready for the winter?" Have you planned well enough ahead to bring warm-season pastures through the winter and have them respond as needed or expected next spring?

Thinking About Seeded Bermudagrass? Consider This... by James Rogers
Making the decision of whether to establish bermudagrass from either sprigs or seed is not very clear cut. Certain items need to be considered in order to make a fully informed decision between establishing sprigs or seed.

Tips for 'Hanging On' in the Current Situation by Matt Mattox
Pre-hurricane-Katrina fuel prices had more than doubled, and nitrogen prices had increased about 26 percent over last year's price – it's gotten our attention, and now everyone is hurting. Farmers and ranchers find themselves trying to stretch every dollar even further than they normally have to.

Top Eight Spring Pasture Management Considerations by Hugh Aljoe
8 ratings:
In 2006 we experienced the driest growing season on record, only to be followed by the best growing season in 2007. No doubt our pastures have seen the worst of times and the best of times in a very short time frame. As one of my colleagues, Eddie Funderburg, stated recently, your pastures are probably not as good as we saw last year or as bad as we saw in 2006.

Top Ten Forage-Related Items to Consider for 2003 by Chuck Coffey
Useful tips for forage producers and managers.

Understanding and Interpreting Noble Foundation Forage Tests by Ryan Reuter
Information on interpreting the results of Noble Foundation forage tests and applying them on your operation.

Understanding Germination May Be Key in Figuring Out Why A Crop Fails by James Rogers
One of the most challenging and frustrating problems agricultural producers face is to figure out what happened to a planted crop that failed to come up.

Use Moisture Management Strategies to Survive Drought by James Rogers
7 ratings:
The basis of water management is to capture as much rainfall as you can through infiltration into the soil, where it is then available for the growth of desired plants.

Use No-Till to Reduce Winter Pasture Establishment Costs by Chuck Coffey
I recently visited with a number of farmers and ranchers who are looking to reduce their input costs while maintaining comparable output. One way to accomplish this is to convert from conventional farming practices to no-till.

Use Ryegrass to Recover Bermudagrass by Matt Mattox
Most, if not all, cattle operations in the southern Great Plains have been adversely affected by two years of drought conditions. In our travels, we have noticed that the majority of the most adversely affected forages are bermudagrass pastures.

Use These Late-Season Weed, Brush Control Strategies by Jeff Ball
A management strategy to consider in the fall is the control of several hard-to-handle perennial weeds – field bindweed, Johnsongrass, bermudagrass, Sericea lespedeza and brush.

Use These Methods to Reduce Hay Feeding Costs by James Rogers
While some type of a hay feeding period is usually unavoidable, there are ways to reduce costs.

Use These Strategies to Help Forage Stands Recover in 2007 by James Rogers
Many Noble cooperators ask, "How do I thicken my stand back up?" Use these tips to develop a healthy stand that can bounce back quickly if rainfall returns to normal.

Using Common Drills, Fertilizer Spreaders, and Carriers to Plant Difficult Seeds by R.L. Dalrymple and Chuck Coffey
A guide to planting difficult seeds without special equipment.

Using Grazing Records by Hugh Aljoe
Many producers are practitioners of rotational grazing management in various forms. Although they are willing to implement a rotational grazing scheme or a fertility recommendation, few are keeping grazing records that can determine the effectiveness of such recommendations.

Using Grazing Records to Make Management Decisions by R.L. Dalrymple and Bret Flatt
Using grazing records to record grazing days per acre (GDA) and using GDA to determine other factors, such as cost per GDA, estimated yields, and paddock comparisons can be a useful management tool.

Valuing Hay by James Rogers
6 ratings:
When shopping for hay, a list of its features such as crude protein or pounds in a bale may or may not be available, making valuation of hay difficult, if not impossible. This can be easily remedied by asking for a hay analysis and a bale weight, or testing and weighing it yourself prior to purchase.

Walk Softly on This Grass of Mine by Matt Mattox
Trampling damage to winter pasture forage can severely impact a stocker operation.

Wanting more "green" early in spring? by Hugh Aljoe
13 ratings:
It is February and many of us are anxiously waiting for spring, especially if we've been feeding hay for awhile.

Water Availability Concerns by Hugh Aljoe
It may seem odd that a so-called forage specialist writes about water, but as any forage manager well understands, water is the life blood within any forage system. With abundant water comes the potential for abundant life.

Weather and Rising Prices Bring New Challenges by Chuck Coffey
9 ratings:
The ranching industry has become an even more challenging business lately due to unpredictable weather, rising costs and cattle cycles that no longer seem to follow a typical 10- to12-year trend.

What Bermudagrass Variety Should I Plant? by Chuck Coffey
A comparison of the attributes and performance of bermudagrass varieties

What is the Real Value of Hay? by Chuck Coffey
With the increase in fertility costs, I thought it timely to revisit the subject of hay and see what the value of a 1,200-pound round bale might actually be.

What Kind of Forages Do You Really Need? by Matt Mattox
Almost every year, a new "wonder grass" is vigorously marketed to beef cattle producers. Most often, these highly touted forages will do what they are advertised to do, but do you really need them?

What To Do With Extra Grass by Chuck Coffey
7 ratings:
With the much appreciated rains we received in August, available forage for grazing in the fall of 2008 is more abundant than we expected. And it couldn't have come at a better time.

What variety should I plant? by Andy Hopkins
This question is music to a plant breeder's ears. It shows that the producer is aware that cultivar choice is important to the success of a farming or ranching operation. A good starting point is to first determine what you, the producer, need to accomplish.

What You Need to Know About Plant Variety Protection by Jeff Ball
Farmers who buy illegally sold seed are subject to litigation, so be certain that any seed sold is not protected.

Wheat Management Decisions by Jim Schaffer
While it's too early to tell whether this year will be "boom" or "bust," these management considerations might help preserve your yield potential if it turns into a bumper crop.

Where Has All the Lovegrass Gone? by R.L. Dalrymple
There is much less weeping lovegrass now than in the past because it fell into disfavor. Failure from not using CRG may have caused the most disenchantment with weeping lovegrass.

Why Am I Feeding All This Hay? by Chan Glidewell
7 ratings:
How about this for a New Year's resolution? Feed less hay next winter. There is nothing you can do about your forage situation for the remainder of this winter, aside from selling cattle or buying more hay.

Why Are Nitrogen Prices So High? by Eddie Funderburg
Nitrogen fertilizer prices have been high for several months now. In some cases, the price has gone up 50 percent or more. Why is it increasing?

Why Rotationally Graze? by Hugh Aljoe
If you answer this question by replying that 'you can increase the stocking rate', then you probably have the cart before the horse and we need to re-think the process. The primary objective in rotational grazing should be pasture or range improvement using rest periods.

Wildflowers by Chuck Coffey
With the drought there's been the past three years and the rain we've had since January, wildflowers are abundant this year. Here are some photographs for your viewing pleasure.

Winter Pasture Options Following Drought Conditions by Hugh Aljoe
An option available to producers this fall is overseeding the warm season pastures with a cool season forage, assuming we have adequate moisture conditions at planting. With our summer pastures being grazed short, early establishment is very possible and would thus facilitate fall forage production.

You'd Better Watch Out ... Fertilizer Thieves are Coming to Town by Eddie Funderburg
Certain people use fertilizer for reasons other than increasing crop yield – namely for explosives and for drug manufacturing. Fertilizer theft is an increasing problem, but agricultural producers can take steps to protect their fertilizer stores from thieves.

Other Pasture, Forage & Soil topics are covered in our Ag News and Views Newsletter.

Pasture & Range Specialists at the Noble Foundation