Pests & Diseases

Believe it or not, 2015 is here. And if you’re not quite sure what to include in your New Year’s resolutions this year, Utah State University agronomist Earl Creech and weed specialist Ralph Whitesides say improving weed management is a great place to start.

Insects perform many beneficial tasks, but when it comes to rangeland health and cattle production, few surpass the benefits of dung beetles and decomposing insects.

Since farmers began growing alfalfa, controlling pocket gophers has been one of the biggest challenges to maximize the value from each stand.

Alfalfa weevils continue to plague our alfalfa hay production in the north-central states. Last year, producers and agronomists reported severe defoliation from weevils, reducing the alfalfa biomass and yields, especially in drought situations.

Dr. Terry Greathouse has been farming and ranching in Texas for more than 30 years. Much of that time, he has been fighting an ongoing battle against pocket gophers.

Round-up Ready alfalfa, longevity, high yields and clean fields are making it possible to maintain alfalfa stands for five to six years instead of plowing them up after two or three years.