Bloat can cause sudden and unexpected death in cattle. When the rumen is unable to expel gases produced as by-products of rumen fermentation, the rumen expands pushing on the diaphragm. This pressure on the diaphragm can inhibit the lungs’ ability to take in and distribute oxygen and the animal ultimately succumbs to suffocation. Bloating is […]
One of the most widely known nematodes to affect crops is the Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN). This nematode is very infectious to soybean crops and has big impacts on crop yields. The geographic range of SCN covers much of the Midwest and southeastern states. Along with protecting crop yields, mitigating potential spread of the species […]
In soil analysis for carbon stocks, the actual analysis of the soil core is a crucial step in calculating carbon stocks. A soil’s bulk density determination can be approached one of two ways: simply or comprehensively. Bulk Density Determination Standard Bulk Density Standard or “simplified” bulk density involves a straightforward calculation where the total dry […]
Accurate soil carbon testing is essential for participating in carbon stock programs, and the requirements are fairly stringent and straightforward. Proper soil sampling for carbon can be achieved by taking into account depth and frequency as well as probe type and size. Sample Collection Approach: Depth and Frequency When sampling for bulk density, it’s important […]
Since the turn of the century, investigating the feasibility of sequestering carbon using soil as a sink has become a prime focus and an essential part of combating climate change. Carbon programs like Verra and BCarbon offer opportunities for landowners to earn “carbon credits” by increasing soil carbon stocks. Understanding carbon stocks is the first […]
Water in brewing is often overlooked in discussions about beer. Water is in fact the unsung hero behind every pint. Comprising up to 90% of a beer’s composition, water is the canvas upon which brewers paint their masterpiece. Its influence extends far beyond mere hydration, shaping the flavor, aroma, mouthfeel, and overall quality of the […]
One of the most common issues that arise in customer service at an agricultural testing laboratory is the dispute over different results for samples meant to represent the same whole. That whole could be a specific field, a stack of hay bales, a bin of mixed feed or plants within a field. This is where […]
Do you know the difference between P and P2O5 or K and K2O? Understanding fertilizer forms can be key in interpretation of the peer reviewed literature and making decisions based on your own reports. Reminder: Fertilizer grade shows % N – % P2O5 – % K2O. The three percentages are always in this order. I […]
What does a bank and a commercial laboratory have in common with your cattle operation? The answer is family values. Dr. Ray Ward founded Ward Laboratories, Inc. on honesty, integrity, and the vision to rebuild and support rural communities. Mr. Jon Schmaderer, president of Tri-County Bank, expressed in an interview that their organization also shares […]
Cattle are most vulnerable from birth to about 3 months old. Just after birth, their immune system is underdeveloped leaving them more susceptible to infectious agents. Further, this critical period can set the course of production for that animal’s life. Proper nutrition during this critical time can help ensure animal health and production performance in […]
Forage analysis is the first step to understanding animal protein supplementation requirements. Most producers are familiar with crude protein and understand how this value compares with livestock needs. However, forage reports also show different fractions of the crude protein. Understanding these fractions allows us to adjust animal diets for heat damage, or the protein associated […]
Few livestock producers are testing minerals in forages. However, the most common issue we consult on is typically a mineral issue. Proper mineral nutrition ensures healthy animals. Additionally, proper mineral nutrition ensures animals can perform to their peak genetic potential. This often includes but is not limited to reproductive performance. Mineral issues result in lost […]
Winter management for forage producers looks quite different from the rest of the year. Many might feel as if there must be something they can do to get a jump on next season. Fertilizer application is ill advised during winter months due to frozen ground and the risk of runoff. Use of heavy equipment for […]
Carbon is probably one of the most well-known elements today. There is a global emphasis on carbon dioxide emissions and carbon capture. In terms of agriculture, much of this focus has centered on capturing carbon by increasing soil organic matter. Organic matter encompasses all organic materials present in soil (living microorganisms and undecayed residues). Roughly, […]
Weedy alfalfa is often a concern when water resources are scarce. The weeds sometimes even seem to outcompete the alfalfa in extremely dry years. Weeds can impact forage quality and contribute to toxicities. Ultimately, this reduces the value of the forage and hits the pocket book! Here are 4 reasons to make a plan to […]
When it comes to corn silage for beef cows, there is more to consider than the average forage. Corn silage is more like a mixed feed due to the corn grain. Therefore, some of the conventional wisdom behind understanding a forage report may not hold up. The prevalence, or in some cases lack of corn […]
In February 2022, Ward Laboratories, Inc. introduced a new tool to measure soil health. The Soil Health Assessment (SHA) is made up of four analyses. There are two biological, one chemical and one physical measurement to evaluate soil health. Biological The first biological test is the 24-hour CO2 soil respiration measurement. We take 40 grams […]
Our recent partnership with GrowingDeer has introduced us to a whole new world outside of traditional agriculture, deer hunting and soil health! I am learning about the relationship between hunting and soil health. Just like most things, you need to take it back to the source. How did this deer get into this place and […]
We often hear that someone has a low salt fertilizer that is liquid. Many people associate salt with table salt. However, we know fertilizers do not contain sodium chloride. So what is a liquid fertilizer low in salt and what implications does that have? Defining Salt Let’s start by defining salt. A salt is a […]
One objective of the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is to convert cropland into grasslands and preserve wildlife habitat. During periods of drought these lands are opened up to emergency haying and grazing to relieve livestock producers during forage supply shortages. CRP lands are only opened up to haying and grazing after primary nesting season. Therefore, […]
