Extension

Agriculture has long been considered the backbone of all major civilizations for thousands of years. 

A civilized citizenry understands the importance of being able to feed themselves; this is why we made the shift from being hunters and gathers to farmers and ranchers. For centuries the skills and knowledge of farmers was passed down from father to son and mother to daughter – but during the industrial revolution this all changed. 

Agriculture education was born and has been a mainstay in educational institutions worldwide. 

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service has announced that the first of three ranking period cut-off dates for the Environ-mental Quality Incent-ives Program Organic, High Tunnel (Hoop Houses) and On-Farm Energy Initiatives is Feb. 3.

Producers interested in any of these three programs should submit applications to their local NRCS office by the deadline so that their applications can be considered during the first ranking period of 2012.

Keep replacement heifer calves gaining enough to reach their “target” breeding weight (65 percent mature weight) by spring.

Get ready for calving season. See that all equipment and materials are ready, including obstetrical equipment, record forms or booklets, ear tags, scales for obtaining birth weights, etc. Prepare a calving area where assistance can be provided easily if needed. Purchase ear tags for calves and number them ahead of time if possible. Plan for enough labor to watch/assist during the calving period.

Did you make a New Year’s resolution to improve your health?

If so, I have an opportunity for you. Even though it’s cold outside, it’s fine to go out and take a walk.  Just dress warmly and join us to walk at Westrick County Park from 4-5 p.m. on Monday, Wednesday and Friday for 10 weeks starting Wednesday, Jan. 18.

Here’s how it works:

• Jan. 9-17:  Register by calling or stopping by the Extension office. $5 Fee.