Iowa crop and livestock producers dealing with drought–related issues are encouraged to attend a webinar Wednesday, July 25 to learn more about options available to them. County Extension offices will be hosting the 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. webinar. There is no charge to attend the webinar.
* Livestock topics: Livestock issues covered during the webinar will include options to help producers manage immediate needs related to stressed pastures and reduced hay supplies. "We also will talk about early weaning to reduce cow requirements and supplemental feeding," says Dan Loy, director of the Iowa Beef Center at ISU. "Other topics facing producers are feeding value, proper ensiling and potential for nitrate toxicity for corn harvested as silage or green chop."
Drought conditions are raising all kinds of questions for Iowa crop and livestock producers this summer.
* Crop topics: Members of the ISU Extension crops team will cover the topics of crop growth and development under drought conditions and feeding drought damaged crops. "We will look at current conditions, short-range and long-range forecasts, impacts of drought on forages and crops, and impacts on disease and insect development," said Roger Elmore, Extension corn specialist.
* Farm finances: Extension specialists will discuss crop insurance coverage, grain marketing implications and valuing drought-damaged corn silage. Possible disaster programs related to the drought situation also will be covered, says William Edwards, Extension economist.
Webinar locations: Use this link-- County Extension offices-- to find the location nearest you that is hosting the July 25 webinar. Extension agriculture and program specialists will facilitate the program at each site. Time has been allowed for questions and answers following the presentations. The webinar will be recorded and made available on the ISU Extension and Outreach website.