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6 milestones for backyard chickens

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SHOREVIEW, Minn. — Graduating school. Getting married. Having children. Retirement. We celebrate many milestones in life. Key moments also happen for backyard chickens. While your flock won’t be buying their first new car any time soon, each bird will also go through important life stages.

Patrick Biggs, Ph.D., a flock nutritionist for Purina Animal Nutrition, says many backyard chicken journeys begin each spring at local PurinaÂŽ Chick Days events.

“As we get started on the journey with baby chicks, it’s important to look forward to the milestones birds will celebrate,” he says. “From baby chick to retirement, there are six important growth stages. Each stage signals nutrition changes.”

Biggs recommends using these six milestones as a roadmap to creating a complete feeding program:

1. Weeks 1-4: Baby chicks

Start your birds strong by providing a complete starter-grower feed with at least 18 percent protein to support chick growth. The feed should also include amino acids for chick development, prebiotics and probiotics for immune health, and vitamins and minerals to support bone health.

“Chicks are also susceptible to illness,” Biggs continues. “If chicks were not vaccinated for coccidiosis by the hatchery, choose a medicated feed. Medicated feeds like Purina® Start & Grow® Medicated, are not impacted by the Veterinary Feed Directive and can be purchased without a veterinarian.”

2. Weeks 5-15: The teenage stage

During weeks 5 and 6, chicks will go through visible growth changes, including new primary feathers and a developing pecking order. Growing birds are now referred to differently. Pullet is the term for a teenage female, while a young male is called a cockerel. Between weeks 7 and 15, the physical differences between genders will become even more obvious.

“Continue to feed a complete starter-grower feed during the teenage stage,” says Biggs. “Along with 18 percent protein, make sure the feed contains no more than 1.25 percent calcium. Too much calcium can have a detrimental effect on growth, but a complete starter feed has just the right balance for growing birds.”

3. Weeks 16-17: Eggticipation

“Around weeks 16-17, people begin to check their nesting boxes for the coveted first egg,” says Biggs. “At this point, consider layer feed options so you can make a smooth transition.”

As compared to starter-grower, a layer feed has less protein and more calcium. This added calcium is important for egg production.

“Look for a complete layer feed that matches your flock goals – whether that’s organic, added omega-3 or strong shells,” Biggs explains. “In any case, be sure the layer feed is made with simple, wholesome ingredients and includes 16 percent protein, at least 3.25 percent calcium as well as key vitamins and minerals.”

4. Week 18: The first egg

When birds reach 18 weeks old or when the first egg arrives, slowly transition to a layer feed. Biggs’ advice is to make the transition gradually to prevent digestive upset.

“On our farm, we have found it’s best to transition over time rather than all at once,” he says. “We mix the starter and layer feed evenly for four or five days. If birds are used to crumbles, start with a crumble layer feed. The same goes with pellets. The more similar the two feeds are, the smoother the transition will go.”

5. Month 18: Molting

Once the first egg has been laid, it’s business as usual for a while. Around 18 months, feathers will likely begin to cover the coop floor. Welcome to molting season!

“The first molt usually occurs in the fall when days become shorter,” explains Biggs. “Your flock will take a break from egg laying and shed feathers for a few weeks. This is a completely natural annual occurrence.”

Protein is the key nutrient in a flock’s diet during molt. This is because feathers are made of 80-85 percent protein, whereas eggshells are primarily calcium.

“When molt begins, switch to a complete feed with 20 percent protein,” Biggs adds. “A high-protein complete feed can help hens channel nutrients into feather regrowth. Once birds begin producing eggs again, switch back to a layer feed to match their energy needs.”

6. Retirement

One day, the time may come for the veterans of a flock to take a permanent vacation and retire from egg-laying. Although a hen will stop laying as she ages, she still has an important place in the flock as a steady companion who brings joy to the entire family.

“At this point, transition back full circle to a higher-protein feed,” says Biggs, pointing to Purina® Flock Raiser® as an option. “If you have laying hens in the flock, supplement with oyster shell to assist their egg production.”

For tips on starting your flock journey, visit www.PurinaChickDays.com. For more information on choosing a complete feeding program, visit purinamills.com/chicken-feedor connect with Purina Poultry on Facebook or Pinterest.

Purina Animal Nutrition LLC (www.purinamills.com) is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is headquartered in Shoreview, Minn. and a wholly owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc.

—Purina Animal Nutrition LLC

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Award program comes to Oklahoma

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OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association, The Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation, the Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation, and ITC Holdings Corp., in partnership with the Sand County Foundation, are bringing the Leopold Conservation Award® program to Oklahoma.

“Governor Mary Fallin is pleased that our agriculture community has come together to bring the Leopold Conservation Award to Oklahoma,” said Jim Reese, Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture. “Farmers and ranchers in our state have long been leaders in conservation. From our early beginnings with the Dust Bowl to today, each generation has strived to leave the land better than they found it. Through this award, we will recognize an exceptional family and thank them for their contributions to a better Oklahoma.”

The Leopold Conservation Award recognizes agricultural landowners actively committed to a land ethic and investing in private land conservation. It celebrates extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation by private landowners, inspires other landowners by example, and provides a platform by which agricultural community leaders are acknowledged as conservation ambassadors to those outside of agriculture.

“This program provides a valuable opportunity here in Oklahoma to recognize our great land stewards, leaders in conservation and our communities, for their benefit to our environment and society,” said Chad Ellis, Noble Foundation Center for Land Stewardshipmanager. “The Noble Foundation has been committed to conserving and improving soils, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices by helping empower farmers and ranchers since 1945. We look forward to continuing these efforts for generations to come.”

This program brings together agriculture, government, environmental organizations, industry and academia to advance the cause of private lands conservation.

“Oklahoma cattle ranchers have a great storied history of a strong and deep stewardship commitment to our natural resources,” said Michael Kelsey, Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association executive vice president. “Partnering with other organizations of similar commitment through the Leopold Conservation Award is a great way to share this important story. The Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association is honored to be a part of this outstanding award.”

The common bond of all organizations and entities involved is a strong commitment to conservation stewardship on private lands, which is the most prominent land ownership model in Oklahoma. More than 90 percent of Oklahoma lands are privately owned.

“We are pleased to partner with these great organizations to bring the Leopold Conservation Award Program to Oklahoma,” saidJeramy Rich, Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation president. “This award fits well with our commitment to educating and advocating for our state’s hardworking farm and ranch families and their history of responsible environmental stewardship.”

The inaugural award will be presented on Earth Day 2018 in Oklahoma City. Recipients will receive $10,000 and a crystal award, along with recognition through the Sand County Foundation as a 2018 Oklahoma recipient.

“We are pleased to support Sand County Foundation in bringing the Leopold Award to Oklahoma,” said Donna Zalewski, ITC Holdings Corp. director of local government, community affairs and philanthropy. “Environmental responsibility is one of our core values, and it is reflected by our employees, at our facilities and in our operations. We are committed to the safe and reliable delivery of power in an environmentally responsible way to help protect land, water and species.”

Applications for the award are now being accepted. The $10,000 award will honor Oklahoma farmers, ranchers and other private landowners who voluntarily demonstrate outstanding stewardship and management of natural resources. Applications for the award must be postmarked by Aug. 31, 2017, and mailed to Amanda Rosholt at the Oklahoma Farming and Ranching Foundation, located at 2501 N Stiles, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105.

For application information, please visit www.leopoldconservationaward.org.

–Noble Foundation

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Debunking 4 mineral misconceptions

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SHOREVIEW, Minn. — “It’s too costly.” “My cows won’t eat it.” “We don’t need it where I live.” These are just a few of the common objections to providing cattle with mineral supplementation. But, are these objections fact, fiction or somewhere in between? Is a misconception holding your cattle back from unrealized potential?

“By skipping mineral supplementation, you may be skipping out on performance and profit potential,” says Kent Tjardes, Ph.D. and cattle consultant with Purina Animal Nutrition. “Minerals are vital to cattle productivity, so it’s important to have the facts straight.”

Here are four common mineral misconceptions debunked:

Myth: Mineral costs too much

“We often focus on the cost of feeding a free-choice mineral supplement,” says Tjardes. “But, we should also figure out the cost of not feeding mineral because the impact on cattle performance can quickly stack up.”

Research shows that providing cattle with an organic trace mineral source can lead to cows that breed back sooner,[1] have higher conception rate,1 have enhanced reproductive performance early in the breeding season,[2] improved calf average daily gain2, [3] and reduced disease incidence in calves.[4]

“An investment in mineral is an investment in the performance of your herd,” adds Tjardes.

Myth: My cows won’t eat mineral, or they eat too much mineral

Some mineral products can taste metallic and bitter due to ingredients such as phosphorus or magnesium oxide. If those flavors are left unmasked, cows may under-consume mineral.

On the other hand, overconsumption can occur when a mineral isn’t well-balanced. One example is a phosphorus imbalance. Because phosphorus is an expensive mineral ingredient, it’s common to see minerals with a lower phosphorus level. However, cows crave phosphorus and will overconsume it until they are satisfied.

“A palatable, balanced mineral can help cattle consume at target intake levels,” says Tjardes. “Finding the right mineral can take a small time investment, but one that’s worth it.”

You can also control mineral consumption through management. If cattle are under-consuming, place mineral feeders or tubs closer to loafing areas and water sources. If cattle are overconsuming, move mineral sources further away from these areas.

Myth: My herd is too small or large to control intake

Small herds often mean smaller, confined pastures. In these situations, cattle may eat mineral out of boredom and could overconsume. It can be helpful to evaluate different mineral forms. For instance, you may look at using a cooked tub mineral instead of a loose mineral to help control intake.

Large herds often mean more spacious pastures. If pastures are too large and mineral sources are limited, cattle may not encounter mineral sources on a regular basis. It’s important to use the appropriate number of mineral feeders for the number of cattle. One feeder for every 20 to 30 head is ideal.

Myth: We don’t need mineral in our area

“You might think you don’t need mineral because you have great grass quality. Remember grass quality can change drastically from month-to-month and year-to-year,” says Tjardes.

As grass dries down, mineral levels can shift dramatically. Grass also becomes higher in lignin as it dries down, and mineral availability decreases.

“It’s also important to remember that a forage test showing you’re meeting basic mineral recommendations does not mean you’re meeting cattle mineral requirements,” says Tjardes. “Recommendations and requirements are two different things – it’s important to meet requirements.”

Hitting two birds with one stone

Providing a mineral supplement not only ensures you’re doing what’s best for your cattle, but it can also deliver added convenience benefits. USDA research has shown that 82 percent of cow/calf producers use fly control, but only 14.5 percent of those producers are taking advantage of a feed-through form.[5]

“By using a mineral with fly control, you’re hitting two birds with one stone,” says Tjardes. “It’s easy because you set out your mineral, your cattle consume it and you don’t have to gather cattle up to treat them for horn flies every month.”

Other convenient mineral formulas are designed to address challenges associated with fescue forages and grass tetany. There are also formulas designed to cover any season.

“If you’re not currently feeding a quality mineral, it’s time to reconsider,” says Tjardes. “A closer evaluation may show surprising benefits left on the table.”

Convenient Wind and Rain® Storm® mineral solutions are available through the Purina® All Seasons™ Cattle Nutrition Program. Talk to your local Purina representative to learn more, or visit ProofPays.com to start your feeding trial.

Purina Animal Nutrition LLC (www.purinamills.com) is a national organization serving producers, animal owners and their families through more than 4,700 local cooperatives, independent dealers and other large retailers throughout the United States. Driven to unlock the greatest potential in every animal, the company is an industry-leading innovator offering a valued portfolio of complete feeds, supplements, premixes, ingredients and specialty technologies for the livestock and lifestyle animal markets. Purina Animal Nutrition LLC is headquartered in Shoreview, Minn., and a wholly owned subsidiary of Land O’Lakes, Inc.

1 Zinpro Corporation, TB-B-5019, 2004.
2 Zinpro Corporation, TB-B-5012, 2004.
3 Zinpro Corporation, TB-B-5017, 2002.
4 Marques, R. S., R. F. Cooke, M. C. Rodrigues, B. I. Cappellozza, R. R. Mills, C. K. Larson, P. Moriel and D. W. Bohnert. 2016. Effects of organic or inorganic cobalt, copper, manganese, and zinc supplementation to late-gestating beef cows on productive and physiological responses of the offspring. J. Anim. Sci. 94:1215-1226
5 USDA. 2008. Beef 2007-08, Part I: Reference of Beef Cow-Calf Management Practices in the United States, 2007-08. USDA-APHIS-VS, CEAH. Fort Collins, CO. #N512-1008

–Purina Animal Nutrition LLC

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Pricing standing hay

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MADISON — One of the challenges in coming up with a value for standing hay is the lack of established market price information like corn and soybeans. Another challenge is multiple cuttings of hay versus a single harvest for grains. So it’s no wonder the price for standing hay can vary greatly between farms, even between fields. Here’s one approach for pricing standing hay in 2017.

Assuming four ton dry matter (DM)/acre for the entire year of dairy quality alfalfa hay worth $100 to $150/ton baled ($0.06 to $0.09/lb DM), half the value is credited to the owner for input costs (land, taxes, seed, chemical and fertilizer), and half the value is credited to the buyer for harvesting, field loss and weather risk. Obviously, estimated yield is an important factor when negotiating price. This formula will help determine pre-season maximum alfalfa dry matter yield potential (0.10 x stems/ft2) + 0.38. Actual yield will likely be lower due environmental conditions and individual harvest / management practices. Wait until stems are at least 4-6 inches tall and count only stems upright enough to be cut by the mower.

Using yield distribution based on recent multi-year UW-Extension field research in NE WI for a three cut (43% / 31% / 26%) or four cut (36% / 25% / 21% / 18%) harvest system, the following price range (rounded to the nearest $5) may offer a starting point for buyers and sellers to negotiate a sale of good to premium quality standing alfalfa in 2017:

In this example, the standing value for the entire alfalfa field could range from $230 to $360/acre for the entire growing season. Keep in mind ownership costs can run $300-400/acre when the seller considers lost rent, establishment costs and top-dress fertilizer to maintain soil fertility. That s why the same price is not always the right price for everyone. Ultimately, a fair price is whatever a willing seller and an able buyer can agree to.

To help farmers and landowners better evaluate their pricing options, Greg Blonde, UW-Extension Agriculture Agent developed a mobile app for pricing standing hay. With more than 1500 downloads and 600 users across the country, the app provides quick access to baled hay market prices for reference calculations, with value per acre by cutting displayed using annual yield and harvest cost projections. The Android app is free to download at the Google Play store (search for Hay Pricing) or by going to:

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.smartmappsconsulting.haypricing

— Greg Blonde, Waupaca County UW-Extension Agent

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Neb. corn farmers to plant 9.6 million acres

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LINCOLN — Nebraska corn farmers will plant 9.6 million acres of corn in 2017 according to the latest Prospective Plantings report released by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This is down 3 percent from last year’s total planted corn acres.

If these planting estimates hold up, Nebraska corn farmers will invest nearly $2.5 billion dollars into the state’s economy over a two-month period. This amount is a result of inputs, such as seed, fuel and fertilizer, but does not include land costs, labor or equipment. Despite the seemingly high investments now, the full economic impact will be realized over time.

“$2.5 billion is a significant investment made by Nebraska’s corn farmers. However, that investment is made at a critical time, as planting sets the foundation for the entire corn growing season,” said Boone McAfee, director of research at the Nebraska Corn Board. “Planting is just the first step in the corn value-added supply chain. As corn is converted into meat, bioplastics, ethanol, and other products, the full economic impact of Nebraska’s corn industry far exceeds the initial investment.”

Farmers historically begin to plant their corn crops in mid-April and try to finish by mid-May. However, weather often dictates when farmers can plant. This year’s moderately dry winter caused concern over available soil moisture during planting time. The latest Nebraska Crop Progress and Condition report released by the USDA (for the week ending April 16, 2017), indicated topsoil moisture supplies in Nebraska rated 5 percent very short, 18 percent short, 74 percent adequate and 3 percent surplus.

“Each year, farmers strive to produce a high quality corn crop using less resources and by managing inputs efficiently,” said David Merrell, farmer from St. Edward and chairman of the Nebraska Corn Board. “Nebraska has long been the third largest producer of corn in the United States, which has greatly enhanced our state’s rural and urban economies.”

Even though the corn industry is an economic booster for Nebraska, farmers face challenges in the months ahead.

“Continued low prices coupled with higher input costs continue to make margins slim for the producer. It’s important for us to always seek out and invest in new market opportunities to enhance the value and demand for corn,” said Merrell. “Global trade is also vital to our industry.”

Nationally, farmers are estimated to plant nearly 90 million acres of corn in 2017, which is down 4 percent from last year. If realized, this will be the lowest planted acreage since 2015, when U.S. farmers planted 88 million acres of corn.

As of the USDA’s latest crop progress report (released April 17, 2017), the U.S. has planted 6 percent of its corn crop. Nebraska is 3 percent complete.

— The Nebraska Corn Board

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Tours to show diversity of Indiana ag

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WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Ten farm tours and workshops across the state will offer new and aspiring farmers the opportunity to learn from experts and network with fellow farmers at a variety of agricultural operations.

The events are organized by Purdue University’s Indiana Beginning Farmers program with Purdue Extension and the Local Growers Guild as sponsors. The series begins in May and runs through mid-October.

“We hope that aspiring and current farmers will find the tours to be a source of useful information and an opportunity to meet and interact with other people who are passionate about farming,” said Kevin Gibson, professor of botany and plant pathology and one of the leaders of Purdue’s Beginning Farmer team.

The schedule:

  • May 8: Nightfall Farm (Crothersville) uses rotational grazing to raise animals on pasture. Learn about regenerative agriculture and their experiences developing a meat Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.
  • May 23: Seven Sons Farm (Roanoke) produces grass-fed beef, pork and eggs. The tour will include information on grazing systems.
  • June 3: The Farm Connection (Clay City) creates artisanal cheeses from their pasture-raised animals, as well as a variety of other products. The event will include information on cheese-making and developing business plans.
  • June 15: Clay Bottom Farm (Goshen) uses intensive growing methods to support a CSA program on less than an acre of land. Learn about their “lean farm” approach to support a CSA, supply restaurants and sell at farmers’ markets.
  • June 24: Silverthorn Farm (Rossville) uses organic practices to produce a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. The tour will include a session on working with restaurants.
  • Aug. 26: Goat Milk Stuff (Scottsburg) is a dairy goat farm producing soaps, candies and cheeses. The tour will include information on agricultural tourism and value-added products.
  • Sept. 11: Little Prairie Farm (Brookston) and the Purdue Student Farm (West Lafayette) will offer two tours of small-acreage vegetable farms to learn about farming practices and tools for smaller-scale operations.
  • Sept. 27: Full Hand Farm (Noblesville) is a diverse vegetable farm. The tour will include information on the use of high tunnels in vegetable production.
  • Oct. 2: Aficionado Farms (Elberfeld) produces organically grown produce, herbs and flowers. Learn about their farm and Farm to School programs.
  • Oct. 14: Blue Yonder Organic Farm (North Salem) is a veteran-owned and operated farm producing pastured poultry, sheep and other products. Learn about poultry production and organic certification.

The workshop/tour events are free, but registration is required and space is limited. To sign up, go to http://bit.ly/2odMUmA.

For more information about the Beginning Farmer and Rancher program or the farm tour schedule, contact Gibson at 765-496-2161 or kgibson@purdue.edu.

Purdue’s Beginning Farmer and Rancher program was launched in 2015 and is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to increase the number of farm start-ups in the state and provide direct, practical assistance to anyone who is new to farming, especially operators of small farms and military veterans.

To join a mailing list to receive updates on the farm tours and other events planned by the Beginning Farmer team, send an email message to beginningfarmers@lists.purdue.edu.

— Purdue University

It takes a community to keep bees

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LITTLETON, Colo. — Finding places for beekeeping can be a challenge for city dwellers. But apiaries modeled after community gardens have become a popular option.

Community beekeeping operations are usually comprised of shared sites on public or private properties, organized by or for people trying to turn out fresh plants or products.

Some, like the community apiary inside The Hudson Gardens & Event Center in Littleton, Colorado, also educate. Its objectives are to train, mentor and provide fellowship for hobbyist beekeepers, promote interest in beekeeping, and boost plant pollination in Hudson Gardens and around the neighborhood, said Amanda Accamando, the center’s education and volunteer manager.

The apiary “brings together a dynamic and unique community of beekeepers that not only share the common goal of supporting honeybee health but also greatly value learning from one another” and spreading the word, Accamando said.

No fees are charged for the program since the beekeepers also do volunteer work. But they must provide their own equipment, protective gear and honeybees. Hudson Gardens delivers the infrastructure, funding, staffing and administrative help.

“That allows our participants to focus on the health of their colonies, and their own development as beekeepers, mentors and educators,” Accamando said.

The program has been growing steadily and she expects to have more applicants than hive spaces available by next year. “We are actively seeking additional ways in which we can engage with beekeepers in our area beyond the apiary’s physical borders,” Accamando said.

Bee stings and liability are obvious concerns, and the public garden’s hobbyist beekeepers are required to follow city codes. Hives must be placed at least 25 feet from property lines, and bee flyways are directed away from private dwellings. No visitors are allowed to approach the hives without a beekeeper escort, and each guest must sign a waiver before entering the apiary.

Burgh Bees in Pittsburgh established the first urban community apiary in the United States.

“We realized more and more people in the city were interested in beekeeping,” said Stephen Repasky, a master beekeeper and Burgh Bee president. “We wanted to help find places for them to do that so we adopted the community garden example.”

The beekeepers eventually found a vacant piece of land and signed a lease with the city for $1 a year to landscape and manage it.

“We went from having a gravel lot full of used needles and garbage to a fenced property with perennials and pollinators,” Repasky said. “It’s going so well that we hope to open a second apiary sometime this summer.”

The City of Pittsburgh continues to look for new ways to utilize its vacant lots, Repasky said.

“Everyone gets a boost when the city is able to find people who can organize and transform those sites,” he said. “It adds value to property you can’t put a price on.”

___

Online:

For more about urban beekeeping, see this Los Angeles County Beekeepers Assn. fact sheet:www.losangelescountybeekeepers.com/becoming-an-urban-beekeeper/

You can contact Dean Fosdick at deanfosdick@netscape.net

Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Dual agency rangeland conference, May 12

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KERRVILLE, Texas — We are excited to offer you the opportunity to attend a TX A&M AgriLife Research and US Forest Service Conference (May 12; YO Conference Center, Kerrville). An excellent group of speakers is lined up to help you think “outside the box.” Speakers will share their expertise and personal experiences and discuss overlooked opportunities, which can significantly enhance your bottom line, while at the same time, enhance Texas rangelands.

Did you know that there is only 1 feed ingredient in existence (after approved by FDA), which: (1) requires no inputs (cultivation, seed, fertilizer, water, pesticides, or herbicides) by man to grow; (2) can grow 365 days a year; (3) is not subject to seasonal price fluctuation; (4) when harvested, can synergistically enhance natural resources and increase surface water, forage production, and land value; and (5) can reduce wildfires and allergens? You’ll hear about this ingredient during the conference.

We are confident that the day will be well worth your time and hope that you can join us for education and fellowship. A great lunch buffet is included and during the lunch hour, you’ll get to hear from our very own, TX Agriculture Commissioner, Mr. Sid Miller.

Must register by May 5 ($15/person; checks only) to ensure you get a seat! For more information and to register: http://sanangelo.tamu.edu/sss-conf.

3 CEU’s offered for Integrated Pest Management (IPM).

Email with questions (trwhitney@ag.tamu.edu) or call 325-653-4576 ext. 245

www.facebook.com/woodtofeed

See you in Kerrville!

TX A&M AgriLife Research and US Forest Service Conference: Strategic Supplementation Strategies to Enhance Texas Rangelands and Reduce Livestock Production Costs

Morning Session: Moderator: Mr. Roy Walston (County Extension Agent, Kerr Co., Kerrville, TX)

8:30–9:20 Check in, social and coffee
9:20–9:30 Introductions and overview. Mr. Roy Walston
9:30−10:00 Getting the most from your ranch resources. Dr. John Walker (Resident Director, Professor; TX A&M AgriLife Research Center, San Angelo)
10:00−10:30 Underutilized feed resources. Dr. Travis Whitney (Assoc. Professor, Livestock Nutritionist, TX A&M AgriLife Research, San Angelo)
10:30−11:00 Opportunities to use ground juniper in livestock and deer supplements. Ms. Jessica Glasscock (Ph.D. student; TX A&M AgriLife Research, TX A&M Kingsville)
11:00–11:15 Break
11:15−12:00 US Forest Service and TX A&M AgriLife Research update: Economic feasibility of using ground juniper in livestock diets. Dr. Travis Whitney
12:00−1:00 Lunch: Buffet served at the YO Conference Center
12:30: Keynote speaker: Mr. Sid Miller (TX Agriculture Commissioner)

Afternoon Session: Moderator: Mr. Roy Walston

1:00−1:30 Real-world experience: using ground aspen wood in cattle feedlot diets. Mr. Kirk Mautz (Owner/Manager, Mautz Feedyards, Olathe, CO)
1:30−2:00 Cowboy nutrition and immunology. Dr. William Edmiston (DVM, Eldorado)
2:00−2:30 Economic supplementation programs for range beef cattle. Dr. Eric Bailey (Assistant Professor, Beef Cattle Nutritionist, West Texas A&M Univ., Canyon)
2:30−2:45 Break
2:45−3:15 Putting it all together: Economic scenarios, opportunities, and roadblocks. Mr. Bill Thompson (Assist. Professor/Extension Economist, TX A&M AgriLife, San Angelo)
3:15−3:45 Roundtable discussion with speakers
5:30−7:30 Dinner/Social (Dutch Treat): TBA

—Texas A&M AgriLife Extension

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Tracking fish “from sea to plate”

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ROME — An FAO-led push to establish internationally agreed standards that can guide the development of catch documentation schemes aimed at keeping illegally caught fish off store-shelves and consumers’ plates has taken an important step forward.

A set of draft Voluntary Guidelines on Catch Documentation Schemes was last week unanimously adopted by a technical consultation that brought a 5-year negotiation effort to a close, and are now poised for adoption by all FAO Members at the UN agency’s upcoming bi-annual governing conference (Rome 3-8 July 2017).

Once approved by the Conference, the guidelines will act as an internationally-recognized “gold standard” reference for governments and businesses looking to establish systems that can trace fish from their point of capture through the entire supply chain – from “sea to plate” – in order to stop illegally caught fish from entering the marketplace.

Globally, some 91-93 million tonnes of fish are captured each year, and seafood products are among the world’s most widely traded food commodities, with an export value of $142 billion in 2016.

On top of that, Illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing is estimated to strip as much as 26 million additional tonnes of fish from the oceans annually, damaging marine ecosystems and sabotaging efforts to sustainably manage fisheries.

Catch documentation schemes (CDS) offer a way to cut down on trade in illegal fish. The basic concept: shipments of fish are certified by national authorities as being caught legally and in compliance with best practices; certifying hard-copy documentation then accompanies the fish as they are processed and marketed nationally or internationally. Only fish with valid documentation can be exported or traded to markets where a CDS requirement exists.

Until recently, only a few such schemes had been established, and mostly focusing on high-value species whose overexploitation prompted particular concern, such as Chilean Seabass harvested in Antarctic waters, or Atlantic and Southern Bluefin Tuna.

But with seafood trade at record highs and consumer demand still rising, catch documentation schemes are increasingly seen as a tool that could be more widely applied. Indeed, the EU since 2010 has used a CDS that covers all fish shipments imported into the bloc from overseas; and in 2016, the United States announced its own scheme, the Seafood Import Monitoring Program.

International buy-in critical

One challenge facing broader use of CDS relates to the logistics of ensuring that a paper certificate safely makes it from a fishing port in one country to an inspection station in another. The new guidelines recommend moving beyond paper-only documentation, so that information on fish shipments is recorded preferably in a digital system that can be referenced at any point along the value chain, reducing administrative burdens but also cutting down on fraud opportunities.

To function well, CDS need to be relatively simple and adaptable to different fisheries circumstances, so that diverse actors across the supply chain will find them both useful and “user friendly” – something the new guidelines call for.

“CDS will only succeed if there is strong, international coordination,” explains Audun Lem, Deputy-Director of FAO’s Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy and Resources Division and current Secretary of FAO’s Sub-Committee on Fish Trade.

“Although they are voluntary, the process of negotiation that led to the new guidelines means they enjoy a high level of buy-in by governments, while endorsement at the FAO Conference will send a clear signal of commitment to adhere to them. So, going forward, new catch documentation schemes established at the national, regional or international level will be in sync, reducing barriers to their wider use,” he said.

Additionally, because the guidelines call on countries to comply with existing international laws as well as agreements established under the World Trade Organization, relying on them to develop CDS will allow countries to avoid unwanted trade disputes, Lem added.

New tools for tackling a pernicious problem

Fishing without permission, exceeding catch quotas, catching protected species, using outlawed types of gear are among the most common IUU fishing offenses.

Such practices not only undermine the global seafood industry as a whole, but can be particularly devastating for the millions of people around the world who depend on fishing for their livelihoods and as a critical source of protein and vitamins.

Growing international awareness of the problems tied to IUU fishing has helped build momentum behind international efforts to respond, such as the new CDS guidelines.

Another example is the FAO Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) that entered into force last year, making history as the first international treaty specifically designed to prevent fishing vessels engaged in IUU fishing activities from entering ports, using port facilities, and landing their catches. The PSMA’s first meeting of parties – which now number 44, including the European Union – will take place next month in Oslo.

“IUU fishing is bad for the environment, is bad for food security, and is bad for economic development, which is why it is targeted for action under the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. The voluntary guidelines on catch documentation schemes puts yet another tool in the anti-IUU toolbox, alongside the PSMA, the FAOInternational Plan of Action on IUU fishing, and our Voluntary Guidelines for Flag State Performance,” said Lem.

—FAO

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TFB on need for eminent domain reform

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AUSTIN — Texas landowners need fairness and transparency in eminent domain proceedings was the statement from Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening as he testified in support of HB 2684 before the House Land and Resource Management Committee.

The bill, filed by Rep. DeWayne Burns (R-Cleburne), outlines requirements that would make eminent domain a more fair process for private property owners.

“We feel like there are too few checks and balances in place to ensure the eminent domain process is exercised appropriately,” Boening said. “We’ve heard it from our members before where landmen admitted they were authorized to make that initial offer ‘low enough.’ If that initial offer had not been so low, maybe that awarded offer would not seem so high.”

Texas landowners face a future of continued demand for their land. With many potential projects on the horizon, proponents of the bill are looking for a legislative fix.

“When offers are too low, the landowners’ only choice is to settle or be sued,” Boening said. “If you don’t have the money to hire an attorney, you settle. Those who hire an attorney and win, you’re still not going to be adequately compensated. You pay your attorney.”

HB 2684 would provide a disincentive for condemning entities to provide landowners with lowball offers, and therefore offering a fair market price up front.

“The condemnation process is not a willing buyer and a willing seller,” Boening said. “Landowners are often land rich and cash poor. It’s important that their land be thought of in its full value.”

Boening stressed to the committee that most landowners want to avoid litigation. To do so, the current process would need to be reformed.

HB 2684 also outlines that certain project information and property rights protections would be required in the deed or easement contract that entities present to landowners.

Those property protections would include repairing damages to land outside the easement area, locking and closing gates, as well as knowledge of how many pipelines and electric poles will go into the easement area.

Boening echoed those sentiments in his testimony on HB 2694 authored by Rep. Kyle Kacal (R-Bryan) and HB 3687 by Rep. Trent Ashby (R-Lufkin).

The bills are also supported by the Texans for Property Rights Coalition, which is led by Texas Farm Bureau, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association and the Texas Wildlife Association.

The coalition consists of 25 organizations committed to the preservation of Texas’ private property rights. The coalition was organized to pursue eminent domain reform during the 2017 Texas legislative session and will continue to work with legislators to secure the passage of these bills and others proposed in the House and Senate that address the need for reform.

The coalition members include: Texas Farm Bureau, Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Wildlife Association, Texas Association of REALTORS®, South Texas’ Property Rights Association, Texas Forestry Association, Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association, Texas Poultry Federation, Independent Cattlemen’s Association of Texas, Texas Grain Sorghum Association, Plains Cotton Growers Inc., Texas Land and Mineral Owners Association, Texas Association of Dairymen, Texas Cattle Feeders Association, Corn Producers Association of Texas, Riverside and Landowners Protection Coalition, Texas Grain and Feed Association, Texas Citrus Mutual, Texas Hill Country Heritage Association, Texas Coalition for Conservation, Texas Wheat Producers Association, Texas Agricultural Land Trust, Ranchers and Landowners Association of Texas, Texas Nursery and Landscape Association and the Tax Exchange Institute.

—Texas Farm Bureau