Ag News and Views: February 2007

February, 2007 Table of Contents News & Views Archive Issues

Economics
Corn Prices Shaping Up as Agriculture's Top Issue In 2007 by Dan Childs
It appears that 2007 is stacking up to be an exciting year for U.S. agriculture. Some of these issues are very political and controversial, while others are the result of supply and demand relationships sometimes affected by a particular weather extreme.

Events
Schedule for 2007 Educational Events Takes Shape by Shan Ingram
Some of you may be wondering, "Is it really 2007, and, if so, where did the time go?" I know I find myself in this situation. Then, I realize I am getting old, and it won't get any better. The only thing I can do is make the best of the situation I'm in and keep on going.

Livestock
Artificial Insemination Can Work for Commercial Producers by Kyle Stutts
Artificial insemination is one of the most effective tools available to enhance the productivity and profitability of beef cattle production systems. Even though this tool has been commercially available for more than 65 years, it is still dramatically underused in today's beef herds.

Pasture and Range
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.

Soils
No-Till, Conventional Till Small Grain Forage Yields Equal by Jim Johnson
During the 2003 to 2006 growing seasons, the Noble Foundation conducted research at the Pasture Demonstration Farm northwest of Ardmore, Okla., to determine the effects of no-till and conventional management on small grain forage yields.

Suburban Agriculture
Take the Mystery Out of Forage Production by David Annis
How many of us have been scared by the fertilizer recommendation on our soil test results? To grow introduced forages to meet livestock demand or yield goal, it is important to fertilize according to a soil test recommendation.

Wildlife
Nest Boxes Provide Nesting Habitat for Several Bird Species by Mike Porter
Winter is the time to inspect, clean and repair existing nest boxes and erect new boxes for cavity-nesting birds. Nesting activity for some cavity-nesting species can begin during late January through March, but peaks for most species during April through June.