News Update

News Update
May 3, 2006

Soaring fuel prices pinch farm profits

Soaring fuel prices are putting the pinch on farmers’ pocketbooks as they face increased production costs without any guarantee of increased receipts for their products. As a result, farmers can’t help but worry and try to cut corners wherever possible.

Use of no-till farming can be one of the biggest savers of fuel, said Chad Lee, University of Kentucky Extension grains specialist. Allowing the corn crop to dry in the field can also be a cost saver, but may not be realistic for farmers with large acreages who need to get the harvest completed in a timely manner.

Other fuel-saving measures include proper maintenance and operation of equipment; proper tire pressure, air and fuel filter maintenance; matching the proper tractor size to the planting job; and minimizing tractor idling time.

Winter feeding sites affect water quality, provide stable fly habitat

The use of temporary feeding sites during winter and early spring months is a common practice among beef producers. Although often small in size, these sites can affect the surrounding environment, specifically surface water quality and stable fly production, said Joel DeRouchey, Kansas State University livestock specialist.

Producers need to recognize that in areas of winter feeding, substantial levels of fecal bacteria and nutrients can accumulate. When runoff occurs in spring from these sites and is in close proximity to surface water, water quality can decrease.

Another important area of concern from these sites is that they serve as an ideal breeding ground for stable flies. If winter-feeding sites are not properly managed and cleaned in the spring, flies may be a nuisance for the summer grazing period, resulting in reduced profitability.

Recommendations for managing winter-feeding sites include periodic movement of feeder locations and rolling hay out in different locations throughout the pasture. Disposal of waste can be accomplished by spreading the material over a large land area, piling and composting the material, or burning the material. The most economical way to decrease environmental effects is to place the temporary site at least 100 feet away from surface water.

— compiled by Micky Wilson, assistant editor, Angus Productions Inc.