MU Forage Systems Research Center set to showcase latest research in pasture management at field day, Sept. 29

This summer’s drought and heat put pressure on many Missouri livestock producers. They can learn new strategies to alleviate forage shortages and hear many other strategies to improve their operations, from forage strategies to wildlife habitat and timber management, at Forage Systems Research Center’s annual Field Day, Sept. 29.

Located near Linneus, Mo., the Center is one of 20 around the state at which the University of Missouri College of Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources conducts impactful research benefitting Missouri farmers.

The Field Day features two wagon tours and a walking tour. Each tour lasts about 30 minutes and will be available from 9 a.m. to noon. After learning how to improve forage quality, profitability and strategies to control resistant weeds, attendees can enjoy a free lunch.

The heat and drought during the summer have caused significant forage shortfalls around the state. Robert Kallenbach, MU professor of plant sciences and forage specialist, will present his research on summer annual forages to alleviate those shortages.

Craig Roberts, MU plant sciences professor, will address a common dilemma for producers: What will the toxin levels be if I make hay or silage from tall fescue? Roberts will explain strategies to reduce toxin levels and explain the factors that affect toxicity.

Winter feeding strategies, new technology to measure pasture production, how to background weaned calves on pasture, improving wildlife habitat and timber management also will be discussed. With all the dry weather throughout Missouri this year, David Davis, superintendent at the Center, expects lots of questions about summer forage options and endophyte toxin levels in fescue. The ongoing research at the Center and expert presentations will keep producers at the forefront of the latest developments in forage systems management.

Registration Begins 8:30 A.M.
Tours start at 9:00 A.M.
Lunch Provided
Driving Directions
2011 Field Day brochure

Program Tours Include:
•Warm season annual grass for summer grazing
•Backgrounding calves on pasture
•New technology to improve pasture management
•Winter hay feeding to maximize fertilizer value
•Pasture weed control
•Improving wildlife habitat
•Using weather data
•Timber management and sawmill demo

The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact David Davis at 660-985-5121, or go to http://aes.missouri.edu/fsrc/.