June, 2006 Table of Contents News & Views Archive Issues

Economics
Agricultural Economic Activity in Noble's Service Area Driven By Forage-Based Beef Production by Jon Biermacher
A static (single year) view of economic production activities generated on farms and ranches by various agricultural industries in the Noble Foundation's 47-county service region.

Forage
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?

Livestock
Why Test for Cattle Persistently Infected With Bovine Viral Diarrhea Virus? by Robert Wells
By now, most cattle producers have at least heard the "buzz words" PI and BVDV. If you've picked up just about any trade publication, been to an industry meeting or talked to a Noble Foundation livestock specialist, you've probably seen or heard the terms before - persistently infected (PI) bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV). Yet, there are still some who have not received, or don't fully comprehend, the message.

Research
'Behind the Scenes' Research Team Supports Consulting by Bret Flatt
Most folks don't realize the Ag Division has a support group that complements the consulting staff. This group - the research team - is comprised of several men and women who have been divided into subgroups to focus on specific areas of research and demonstration.

Soils
Soil Fertility: Put It All Together by Jim Johnson
I've assembled six steps - from start to finish - that I think are essential for any soil fertility program.

Suburban Agriculture
What Do You Mean, I Can't Develop My Property? by David Annis
Preserving the environment for future generations is a laudable goal, but is a conservation easement for you? It is hard to answer with a "yes" or a "no."

Wildlife
Lotus – Is it Friend or Foe? by Mike Porter
During spring and summer, many people become concerned about plants growing in their ponds. This concern may or may not be justified, because aquatic plants are desirable for many pond management goals.