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AgNews: News and Public Affairs, Texas A&M University 
      Agriculture Program

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October 11, 2007
Worldwide Summit on Fruits, Vegetables Unite Medical, Agricultural Researchers  Print Story
HOUSTON -- The number of people across the globe who are underweight has declined to less than 1 billion in the last decade, while the world's overweight population grown to more than 1.1 billion, according to Dr. Thomas Lumpkin, with the World Vegetable Center in Taiwan.

October 11, 2007
Extension Economist: South Texas Hunting Prospects Best in Years  Print Story Photo Icon
UVALDE – Though crop losses from record rainfall earlier this year reached $200 million, hunting prospects across South Texas are excellent and the money spent on related activities throughout the region will be welcomed, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension economist.

October 11, 2007
Borlaug Institute To Help Build Burundi’s Agriculture  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – The Norman E. Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture at Texas A&M University, as a member of a special consortium, has been awarded a program to expand agricultural capacity and opportunity in Burundi.

October 11, 2007
Barnhart Station Field Day is First in Several Years  Print Story
BARNHART – The Texas Range Station at Barnhart will hold a field day, the first in several years, on Oct. 18.

October 11, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report: State’s Cotton Production Heating Up  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Cotton needs heat units to mature and while things started out slowly for much of the crop, it is now back on track on the High Plains, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

October 10, 2007
Worldwide Gathering Set in Houston to Consider Fruit, Vegetables and Human Health  Print Story
What: International Symposium on Human Health Effects of Fruit and Vegetables. The goal of the conference is to exchange information between the agricultural, nutrition and health sciences, and to advance the science related to foods for health.

October 10, 2007
MEDIA ALERT: Food safety contacts for follow-up stories on E. coli beef  Print Story
If you are working on a follow-up story on the E. coli-beef recalls, please be aware that Texas A&M University has a Center for Food Safety. Dr. Kerri Harris, director, will be available to answer any questions about regulatory and food safety issues. To set up an interview, please contact Edith Chenault, communications specialist, at 979-845-2886 or EChenaul@ag.tamu.edu .

October 09, 2007
Constipation a Symptom, Not a Disease  Print Story
AMARILLO – Constipation is a serious problem at any age but may be more so in older adults, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

October 05, 2007
Rusk Pioneer Days Set Oct. 13 for Little and Big Cowboys and Cowgirls Alike  Print Story
RUSK - - Pioneer Days in Rusk is what Rene McCracken calls her "little cowboy" event.

October 05, 2007
Fall Pesticide Training Promises 'Non-Boring' Programming  Print Story Photo Icon
NACOGDOCHES – The "Fall CEU Program" is designed for private pesticide applicators who need continuing education units but don't want to be bored getting them, said a Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension agent .

October 04, 2007
4-H Principles Underpin Program Helping Juvenile Offenders  Print Story
KERRVILLE - A new program based on 4-H principles is helping juvenile offenders develop character and life skills while giving them a chance at a better life, said program coordinators.

October 04, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather: Pumpkins at a Premium?  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – In much of the United States this autumn, a turnip may have to be used as a jack-o'-lantern, as the U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates lower national yields.

October 03, 2007
Youth Boards Help 4-H Members Improve the Present and Prepare for the Future  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – When Jack County Agent Tom Marks organized the first boys' ‘corn club' in Texas a century ago, no one ever talked about peer pressure.

October 03, 2007
Rainwater Harvesting Seminar Will Tap into Natural Resource  Print Story
FORT WORTH – A day-long conference in Fort Worth will focus on harvesting rainwater for use in landscape, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

October 02, 2007
Sticking to Cactus Control Pays Off  Print Story Photo Icon
CANYON – New products make controlling prickly pear and cholla cactus a paying venture, as long as planned for on a long-term basis, a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist said.

October 02, 2007
Twelfth Annual Parenting Conference Set for Nov. 6 in Lubbock  Print Story
LUBBOCK – What's the best way to balance work and family? Is there a rule of thumb when trying to choose quality child care? What language is my teenager speaking these days? Am I losing my mind?

October 01, 2007
Ceres and Texas A&M to Develop and Market High-Biomass Sorghum for Biofuels  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Energy crop company Ceres, Inc. and the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station of The Texas A&M University System announced today that they have entered into an exclusive, multi-year joint research and commercialization agreement for high biomass sorghum.

October 01, 2007
It’s Cotton Tour Time  Print Story
BALLINGER – It's cotton tour time, and Texas Cooperative Extension has tours set for Oct. 10 in Runnels County and Oct. 11 in Tom Green County.

October 01, 2007
Workshop Will Address Livestock Risk Management  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Texas Cooperative Extension has scheduled a livestock risk management workshop from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 7 at Angelo State University's Management, Instruction and Research Center.

September 28, 2007
'Father of Green Revolution' to Earn Doctorate Degree from Texas A&M  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION - Dr. Norman E. Borlaug, who is credited for saving more than a billion people worldwide from starvation, will receive an honorary doctor of letters degree from Texas A&M University in December, as approved by the A&M System Board of Regents on Friday.

September 28, 2007
Ag Scientist: Don't Plant 'Seeds of Doubt'  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON - The price of crimson clover seed – for standard varieties – has nearly doubled this year. Non-standard varieties may be cheaper, but planting a variety that hasn't been tested in Texas is asking for failure, said a Texas Agricultural Experiment Station forage expert.

September 28, 2007
Livestock Risk Management Workshop Set For Oct. 22 in Vernon  Print Story
VERNON – Drought, mad cow disease, market volatility and higher input costs have increased risk levels for cattle and forage producers during the last decade, in spite of relatively good market prices, said a Texas Cooperative Extension economist.

September 27, 2007
U.S. Agriculture Secretary: Guatemala Project Shows Borlaug’s ‘Feed the World’ Vision  Print Story Photo Icon
GUATEMALA CITY – The Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture, part of the Texas A&M University System, will expand the efforts of its Food for Progress project in Guatemala beginning Oct. 1.

September 26, 2007
Hessian Flies Threaten Fall Wheat in North Texas  Print Story
DALLAS – North Texas wheat fields could be damaged by Hessian flies this fall, said an expert with Texas Cooperative Extension.

September 26, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather: Producers Seeing Improvements in Crops  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – The recent warmer, drier weather has been a boon to crop production almost statewide, according to Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

September 26, 2007
No Shortage of New A&M Dwarf Turfgrass Seed This Year  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON - After a seed shortage last year, supplies this year should be plentiful of Axcella 2, a winter turfgrass developed by the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station.

September 25, 2007
Extension Leader Honored as Agricultural Visionary  Print Story Photo Icon
AMARILLO – Dr. Bob Robinson may be retired from his position with Texas Cooperative Extension, but he's not through collecting honors for the work he did during his 37 years within the agency.

September 24, 2007
Got Grapes? Extension To Present First Hill Country Vineyard Workshop  Print Story
FREDERICKSBURG – Texas Cooperative Extension will present its first-ever Prospective Grower Workshop on Oct. 16 for those interested in planting a commercial vineyard in the Hill Country.

September 24, 2007
Recently Published Paper Highlights Bovine Genome Work  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – A group of researchers – including Texas Agricultural Experiment Station scientists – have used gene fragments from Hereford, Holstein and Angus animals to create an artificial chromosome map. The artificial chromosome map will be used to study disease resistance or immunological response to vaccination, feed efficiency and reproductive efficiency in beef animals, said Dr. Clare Gill, Experiment Station associate professor.

September 24, 2007
‘New’ Angora Goat Futurity Picks Winners Using Science  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – The Junior Angora Wether Goat Futurity uses scientific image analysis – not just the judge's eye – to select winners, show officials said.

September 21, 2007
Harvest Aid Guide Can Help Producers Prepare for Cotton Harvest  Print Story
LUBBOCK – Plains cotton producers preparing for harvest have an updated harvest-aid guide available to help them make the most of this year's delayed crop, said a Texas Cooperative Extension agronomist.

September 21, 2007
Media Advisory: 2007 Texas Pumpkins On Their Way to Market  Print Story Photo Icon
FLOYDADA – Growers in Texas' largest pumpkin patch haven't yet sited the Great Pumpkin, but they haven't had much time to look for him. They are busy harvesting, processing and shipping a bountiful crop of decorative squash to wholesale and retail outlets.

September 20, 2007
Extension Conference To Flow with Rainwater Harvesting Info  Print Story
BOERNE – An upcoming conference in Boerne will help people tap into harvesting rainwater for indoor and outdoor use, according to Texas Cooperative Extension organizers.

September 20, 2007
Diabetes Risk Sweetens with Age  Print Story
AMARILLO – Diabetes is a serious disease at any age, but it is especially serious for older adults, said Andrew B. Crocker, Texas Cooperative Extension specialist on aging.

September 19, 2007
Wet Summer Could Mean Surge in Feral Hog Numbers  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON – Might it be raining feral hogs this fall? "Raining" might be something of an over-statement, but the wet year could mean bigger litter sizes and more far-ranging herds, said Texas Cooperative Extension experts.

September 19, 2007
Geographic Information System Workshop Slated For Oct. 18  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – A geographic information system workshop is set for Oct. 18 at the Texas A&M University System Research and Extension Center at San Angelo.

September 19, 2007
Stakeholders Helping to Protect Cedar Creek Watershed  Print Story Photo Icon
KAUFMAN – Water quality has declined in the Cedar Creek Reservoir, but experts with the Texas A&M University System are helping landowners and government officials develop plans to plans to clean the water that flows into the 160-acre lake.

September 18, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – It's a given that the success of row crops hinges on the weather.

September 18, 2007
Angora Goats: A ‘Shear’ Delight  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Veteran producers who have long enjoyed the charm and personality of the Angora goat may have help in educating new audiences about opportunities with Angoras.

September 18, 2007
Extension Names Judy Gully to West Region Leadership Post  Print Story Photo Icon
SAN ANGELO – Judy Gully has been named the regional program director for family and consumer sciences in Texas Cooperative Extension's west region.

September 18, 2007
Toro Gives $73,000 to Texas A&M University Turfgrass Program  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Toro Company has given a $73,000 grant to Texas A&M University's turfgrass program to support undergraduate activities and research, officials said Tuesday.

September 17, 2007
Playa Lakes Endangered Without Proper Management  Print Story Photo Icon
AMARILLO – A bountiful, wet spring and summer have made playa lakes more noticeable as they fill with water across the state, a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist said.

September 17, 2007
Texas Department of Agriculture Funds Array of Cotton Research  Print Story
LUBBOCK – The Texas Department of Agriculture awarded more than $280,000 to cotton research in the state during a Sept. 10 ceremony at Lubbock.

September 17, 2007
TDA Gives Texas Agricultural Experiment Station Sheep and Goat Research a $300,000 Boost  Print Story
LUBBOCK – Sheep and goat research in West Texas got a strong financial boost thanks to more than $300,000 in Texas Department of Agriculture funding that was awarded earlier this week.

September 17, 2007
Pink Hibiscus Mealybug Found in Texas  Print Story Photo Icon
PORT ARANSAS – The pink hibiscus mealybug – which may be of concern to Texas, citrus and ornamental industries – has been found near Port Aransas.

September 14, 2007
Cow Power: System Could Let Cows Produce Milk AND Electricity  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Contented cows may be giving more than milk these days. Their manure could help to turn the lights on at farms, thanks to a project being undertaken by the Texas Water Resources Institute and Texas Cooperative Extension.

September 13, 2007
Bug 'Explosion' May Be Coming for Farmers and Homeowners In Coming Weeks  Print Story Photo Icon
SAN ANGELO – Crickets, mosquitos, flies, fleas and spiders: Texans have seen them all this summer thanks to unprecedented wet weather. But a Texas Cooperative Extension entomologist says the worst may be yet to come.

September 12, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY: Tropical Storm Preparedness Information Available Online  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – As residents along the Gulf of Mexico coast take stock of the potential tropical storm expected to arrive this evening, Texas Cooperative Extension reminds that information on how to prepare for emergencies is available on the Internet.

September 12, 2007
Villalobos Begins New Appointment with Department of Nutrition and Food Science  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – After spending her educational and professional careers in the four corners of the country, Dr. Alice Villalobos has settled in Bryan/College Station. Villalobos said she is looking forward to beginning her new position as assistant professor in the department of nutrition and food sciences. Her husband, Dr. Michel Massett, will be an assistant professor with the department of health and kinesiology.

September 12, 2007
Texas, Crop Weather  Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION - Scattered storms brought rain to some parts of Texas, with many counties seeing warm days and cooler nights, reported Texas Cooperative Extension agents and specialists across the state.

September 12, 2007
Fire Ants Killing Baby Song Birds at High Rates  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Red imported fire ants may be killing as many as a fifth of baby song birds before they leave the nest, according to research recently completed at Texas A&M University.

September 12, 2007
Texas Cooperative Extension to Offer Rainwater Harvesting Seminar  Print Story
McKINNEY – A day-long conference in McKinney will focus on harvesting rainwater for use around the home, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

September 12, 2007
‘Maggot Art’ Offers Colorful Lesson in Entomology  Print Story Photo Icon
DALLAS – After soaking in paint, dozens of maggots squirmed across construction paper leaving colorful trails behind them.

September 11, 2007
Public Feedback Sought on Pecos River Watershed Protection Plan  Print Story
FORT STOCKTON - Persons interested in the future of the Pecos River are asked to give input to a draft plan aimed at improving the river and its watershed.

September 11, 2007
To Maximize Biofuel Potential, Researchers Look for Sorghum’s ‘Sweet Spot’  Print Story Photo Icon
BEAUMONT – Picture this – IV (intravenous) lines in a sorghum field. It's not as far-fetched as it sounds. It's one way that scientists at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station are researching crops that may contribute to the biofuel revolution.

September 11, 2007
Texas A&M Agriculture Receives Sun Grant Funding for Bioenergy Research  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Eight of Texas A&M Agriculture's bioenergy research projects will receive funding through the Sun Grant Initiative, a national program established to create new solutions for future U.S. energy needs.

September 7, 2007
Competition Brews Good News for Rwanda as World-Class Specialty Coffee Producer  Print Story
KIGALI, RWANDA – Rwanda's reputation as a producer of top-quality specialty coffee took a quantum leap with the results of its first-ever Golden Cup national competition held Aug. 28-31, said event organizers.

September 6, 2007
Texas 4-H ‘Hits the Road’ to Celebrate 100th Anniversary  Print Story
JACKSBORO – For Texas 4-H'ers, all roads lead from Jacksboro, where 4-H in the Lone Star State has its roots.

September 5, 2007
Peace Corps Master's International Program Adds Texas A&M University  Print Story
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Peace Corps' Master's International program has added Texas A&M University to its roster of university partners.

September 04, 2007
End-of-Life Issues Also Part of Planning for Future  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – If nothing is sure in life except death and taxes, this is also true: Both need to be planned for. That's the advice from Dr. Joyce Cavanagh, Texas Cooperative Extension family economics specialist.

September 04, 2007
Flower Power: Leading Horticulturist to Focus on Floriculture Future  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Anna Ball will address the future of the U.S. floriculture industry Oct. 10 in Room 102 of the Horticulture and Forest Sciences Building at Texas A&M University in College Station.

September 03, 2007
Inquiring Research Minds Want To Know More About Cotton Fleahoppers  Print Story Photo Icon
LUBBOCK- Inquiring minds want to know. The supermarket headlines tell us so.

September 03, 2007
Wind Energy and Wildlife Thrust of Oct. 25-26 Abilene Conference  Print Story
ABILENE – Wind energy and its effects on wildlife will be the focus of a conference in Abilene Oct. 25-26 at the Big Country Hall at 1982 Lytle Way.

August 31, 2007
Despite Usually Wet July, Some Texas Trees Parched  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON - - Homeowners across Texas are concerned their landscape trees may be diseased, but "don't panic," said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 31, 2007
Extension Deserves Mention for Emergency, Disaster Preparedness Information  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – September is National Preparedness Month, and Texas Cooperative Extension is an excellent source for emergency and disaster preparedness and recovery information and expertise, said an Extension expert.

August 31, 2007
Brown County to Host Pecan Tour  Print Story
BROWNWOOD – Brown County will host a Texas Cooperative Extension multi-county pecan tour on Sept. 26.

August 31, 2007
Sonora Ram Test Starts Sept. 10-11  Print Story
SONORA – The annual ram performance test conducted by the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station in Sonora begins Sept.10 -11 with delivery of the rams to that location.

August 30, 2007
Harris Named Director for Texas A&M Center for Food Safety  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Kerri B. Harris has been named the director of the Center for Food Safety at Texas A&M University.

August 30, 2007
Dunlap Returns to Collingsworth County in Extension Role  Print Story Photo Icon
WELLINGTON – Dale Dunlap said he just couldn't stay away from Collingsworth County and Texas Cooperative Extension.

August 29, 2007
Texas Crop & Weather  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION– Tropical storm Erin brought more rainfall to the San Angelo region with some areas south of the city reporting 9 inches, according to Scott Durham, Texas Cooperative Extension district administrator at San Angelo.

August 29, 2007
Breeders Fortifying Wheat With Consumers in Mind  Print Story Photo Icon
AMARILLO – Wheat breeders are working to put a ‘little muscle' into bread, in addition to helping producers get better yields, said a Texas Agricultural Experiment Station researcher.

August 29, 2007
Allergy Attack Prevention Begins at Home  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – A runny or stuffy nose, watery eyes, sneezing and coughing may signal a cold or the flu – or could mean allergies.

August 29, 2007
Extension to Offer Pasture, Meadow Pesticide Training in September  Print Story
HOUSTON–Texas Cooperative Extension in Harris County will offer pesticide applicator training on managing pastures and meadows from 3:30-9 p.m., Sept. 14 in the Extension auditorium, 3033 Bear Creek Drive.

August 28, 2007
Late-Summer Weed Control Helps Winter Lawns  Print Story
DALLAS – Winter weeds might be out of sight and out of mind, but now is the time to think about applying pre-emergent herbicides to lawns, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 27, 2007
New Forage Legume Could Ease Nitrogen Cost-Shock  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
OVERTON – Rio Verde lablab, a recently released forage legume by the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, could provide some relief to nitrogen fertilizer cost-shock.

August 27, 2007
Scott Named 4-H And Youth Specialist for South Plains, Panhandle  Print Story Photo Icon
LUBBOCK – Texas Cooperative Extension's 4-H and youth programs in the South Plains and Panhandle will soon have a new leader.

August 24, 2007
Field Day Looks at Bioenergy Impact on the Sheep and Goat Industry  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Bioenergy and its impact on the sheep and goat industry is the theme for the 34th annual Sheep and Goat Field Day Sept. 6 at the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center near San Angelo.

August 24, 2007
Stocker Cattle, Wheat Management Workshop Set For Aug. 30  Print Story
SNYDER – Cattle and wheat producers can update their knowledge of stocker cattle and wheat management at an Aug. 30 workshop sponsored by Texas Cooperative Extension.

August 24, 2007
Fall Gardening Conference to Feature 'Tough Plants' and Antique Daffodils  Print Story Photo Icon
TYLER – An upcoming gardening conference will do more than offer speakers about Texas tough plants and antique daffodils.

August 23, 2007
New Extension Publication Gives the ‘Poop’ on Manure  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Proper management systems are needed to handle, store, treat and utilize animal manure in a safe and environmentally sound manner, a Texas Cooperative Extension expert said.

August 23, 2007
2007 Golden Cup Competition Reflects Perk-Up of Rwandan Coffee Industry  Print Story Photo Icon
BUTARE, RWANDA – About 140 of Rwanda's highest quality specialty coffees were entered for the first-ever Rwandan Golden Cup coffee competition. The competition will take place Aug. 28-31 at a cupping laboratory about 10 miles from Butare, Rwanda..

August 23, 2007
Carbon Credit Conference Set Sept. 28 in East Texas  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON – An upcoming conference promises to walk landowners through four steps to making a profit from selling carbon credits, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 22, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Rainfall across the state has put range and pastures in great shape for beef cattle, and livestock markets have gotten a boost, according to Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

August 22, 2007
Perennial Pastures Require Care, Planning  Print Story Photo Icon
FLOYDADA – So you want some perennial grass on your place for grazing or maybe even hay? Before you get started on this project, get a leg up and do some planning, said a Texas Cooperative Extension beef specialist.

August 20, 2007
Families Reminded to Include Pets in Family Evacuation Plan  Print Story
HOUSTON – As Texans eye the Gulf of Mexico for what weather experts are forecasting as another busy hurricane season, a Texas Cooperative Extension expert said every family should have an evacuation plan that includes the family pet.

August 20, 2007
Disaster Recovery May Include Replacing Personal Documents  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – When disaster strikes, chaos reigns. Taking care of the safety of loved ones takes first priority, but recovery may also include rebuilding financial and personal information.

August 20, 2007
Disaster Recovery May Include Replacing Personal Documents  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – When disaster strikes, chaos reigns. Taking care of the safety of loved ones takes first priority, but recovery may also include rebuilding financial and personal information.

August 20, 2007
Obesity Center's Name Change Reflects New Relationships  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION -- Texas A&M Agriculture's Center for Obesity Research and Program Evaluation has been elevated to an institute, reflecting the entity's collaborative efforts to fight obesity, particularly in children.

August 20, 2007
Hurricane Preparedness for Livestock  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Livestock owners should "hurricane-ize" their livestock each year, Texas Cooperative Extension officials advise.

August 20 2007
Be Prepared: Disaster Can Strike Any Time   Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Disaster can strike at any place, any time, to anybody. One look at television news coverage of the recent upheaval in the Caribbean caused by Hurricane Dean proves that, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 20, 2007
Experiment Station Scientist Named Fellow of Prestigious Science Society  Print Story Photo Icon
OVERTON – Dr. Ron Randel, an East Texas based researcher with the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, has been named a fellow of the American Society of Animal Science.

August 17, 2007
Who Do You Call When the Wall Caves In? Hiring a Contractor Is Not as Easy as it Looks  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Suppose your house was damaged by weather.

August 17, 2007
Fort Stockton Field Day to Center on Rangeland Water Harvesting  Print Story
FORT STOCKTON – Texas Cooperative Extension's Pecos County office will be conducting a Rangeland Water Harvesting Field Day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 27 at the Sherman Hammond Ranch.

August 17, 2007
Plenty of Good Watermelons Available Despite Heavy South Texas Rains  Print Story Photo Icon
UVALDE – Watermelon aficionados can rest easy. Despite heavy rains in South Texas, the juicy melons should be available at reasonable prices for the rest of the summer, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 17, 2007
Record Rainfall Causes $200 Million in Ag-Related Losses  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – From watermelons left rotting in the field to flooded cotton and grain sorghum, record rains this spring and summer have resulted in $200 million in agriculture losses in South Texas, Texas Cooperative Extension and Texas Farm Service Agency officials reported Friday.

August 17, 2007
Private Pesticide Applicator Training Set for September 6  Print Story
SAN ANTONIO – Texas Cooperative Extension and the Texas Department of Agriculture will offer private pesticide applicator training from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Sept. 6.

August 17, 2007
Biggest Costs of Bloat May be in Undiagnosed Cattle  Print Story
VERNON – Cattle deaths due to bloat are an economic loss, but the greater cost may come during the early stages of bloat, said a Texas Agricultural Experiment Station researcher at Vernon.

August 16, 2007
Extension Expert Issues 'Heat Advisory' for Farm Pond Fish  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
OVERTON – Humans and their domestic pets aren't allow in being at risk from triple-digit summer heat, according a Texas Cooperative Extension wildlife and fisheries specialist.

August 16, 2007
Media Advisory: South Texas Crop Loss Estimates To Be Released Friday  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – A media conference call announcing crop loss estimates due to above-normal rainfall over much of South Texas is scheduled at 10 a.m. Friday.

August 16, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – In many cases, high temperatures across the state are just what producers ordered, reported area Texas Cooperative Extension officials.

August 16, 2007
Fire Ant Awareness Week to Promote Fall Treatment  Print Story Photo Icon
DALLAS – It's not too late, or too early, to set out fire-ant bait for the notorious pests, experts say. Fire Ant Awareness Week, beginning Sept. 10, is a reminder to apply insecticides for the second time this year.

August 15, 2007
High Quality, Heart-Healthy Beef Focus of International Symposium  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Producing beef with high levels of oleic acid and other heart-healthy traits for both domestic and Asian consumption will highlight an international symposium Oct. 15-16 at Texas A&M University.

August 15, 2007
Expert: Security Freeze Can Help Chill Identity Theft  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Beginning Sept. 1, Texans will have another layer of protection for their personal identities, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 14, 2007
Texas A&M Horticulture Students Sprout Honors at National Meeting  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – The Texas A&M University horticulture student club has been "awarded in spades," according to the group's advisor, Dr. Dan Lineberger, horticulture professor.

August 14, 2007
Westphalia Hosts Water Conference  Print Story
WESTPHALIA – Brushy Creek, water issues and water legislation will be the topics of a conference at the Westphalia Community Center in Westphalia. The meeting will be held from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Aug. 23.

August 13, 2007
Samuel Welch Endowed Scholarship Established at Texas A&M  Print Story
BRYAN -- Dr. Finis Welch has established a $150,000 Foundation Excellence Award through the Texas A&M Foundation to benefit Hispanic students who have graduated from Texas high schools, demonstrate economic need and are pursuing a degree from the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences on the College Station campus.

August 13, 2007
Multinational Research: Protecting Ecology Means Understanding People Too  Print Story Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Talking to a biologist about one's feelings could produce the same reaction as, say, telling a sociologist about molecules.

August 10, 2007
Agriculture Adds Fuel to Food, Feed and Fiber Supply  Print Story Photo Icon
BUSHLAND – Agriculture has a challenge in front of it: the opportunity to help meet the energy needs of the future, said the director of Texas Agricultural Experiment Station.

August 10, 2007
Texas A&M Wins Second Consecutive National Academic Bowl  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – The Academic Bowl Team from Texas A&M University's department of agricultural economics recently captured its second consecutive national title.

August 09, 2007
Rain, Flooding and Mud Stress Cattle  Print Story
CORPUS CHRISTI – Recent rains and flooding have been hard on livestock, but producers can help them weather the unusually wet summer. The following tips from Dr. Joe Paschal, Texas Cooperative Extension livestock specialist, were written for cattle, but could apply to sheep and goats in most cases:

August 09, 2007
Excess Rainfall: Both Good and Bad for Texas Agriculture  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Agricultural producers are trying to make hay while the sun shines. The problem is it won't shine long enough.

August 08, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Drying in wait – that's what grasslands across Texas are doing as producers work to cut the abundant hay and make bales between rains, according to Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

August 07, 2007
Texas A&M Invitational to Tee Off on Sept. 10  Print Story
DALLAS -- Texas A&M University alumni are finalizing plans for the 10th annual Texas A&M Invitational golf tournament on Sept. 10.

August 07, 2007
Get the Most from Your Exercise Investment  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – The longest journey may begin with a single step, but Texas Cooperative Extension experts suggest that the road to better health starts with these six:

August 06, 2007
Consumer Beef: Producing Safe, Quality Product Focus of 53rd Beef Cattle Short Course  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – While beef demand continues at a brisk pace, consumers are paying close attention to its source and cattle producers are taking note, said one Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

August 06, 2007
Not Too Late to Beat High Nitrogen Costs This Fall  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
OVERTON – There is a way to beat high nitrogen fertilizer costs for pastures when it comes to putting pounds on calves.

August 06, 2007
Exercise Saves Dollars as Well as Lives  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Regular physical activity is good for physical – and fiscal – health, said Dr. Carol Rice, Texas Cooperative Extension health specialist. That's because the lack of exercise can be expensive for both individuals and communities.

August 03, 2007
Media Advisory: Beef Story Ideas for Labor Day  Print Story
What's going on in the beef industry and how will it ultimately impact the dinner table? Try the Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course Aug 6-8 in College Station, where 1,400 cattle producers statewide will be learning how to produce a better steak.

August 03, 2007
Free Wildlife Management Workshop Offered in September  Print Story
HELOTES – Texas Cooperative Extension will present a free "Wildlife Management Workshop" during the evenings of Sept. 18 and 19 at the Helotes 4-H Activity Center, 12132 Leslie Road.

August 03, 2007
International Symposium on Fruit, Vegetables Headed for Houston  Print Story Photo Icon
HOUSTON – Fruits and vegetables – tasty and a vital part of daily nutrition. But researchers worldwide continue to seek better ways to use the healthful properties of these foods. Many of these scientists will meet in Houston Oct. 9-13 to share the latest findings.

August 03, 2007
Wheat, Stocker Cattle Conference Is Aug. 14 In Wichita Falls  Print Story
WICHITA FALLS – Area producers can update their knowledge of wheat production and learn more about stocker cattle at an Aug. 14 conference. The event will be presented in Room 5 of the Multi-Purpose Event Center, 1000 Fifth St. in Wichita Falls.

August 03, 2007
Perennial Grass Workshop Is Aug. 10 In Floyd County  Print Story
LUBBOCK – Texas Cooperative Extension in Floyd and Hale counties will sponsor a perennial grass workshop for South Plains producers on Aug. 10.

August 02, 2007
'Making Small Acreage Profitable in East Texas' to Start Sept 6.  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
NACOGDOCHES – Some people might call them "piecemeal" farms: small operations of 50 acres or less.

August 02, 2007
Seed Quality Is Key To A Good Wheat Crop  Print Story
WICHITA FALLS – Somewhere between putting grain in the bin after harvest and putting seed in the drill for planting, Texas wheat producers should pay attention to seed quality, said a Texas Cooperative Extension agent.

August 01, 2007
Cardona Is New Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in Burnet County  Print Story
BURNET – Norma Linda Cardona has been named the Texas Cooperative Extension agent for family and consumer sciences in Burnet County. The announcement was made by County Judge Donna Klaeger and Scott Durham, Extension administrator at San Angelo.

August 01, 2007
Jordan Receives High Honor in Dairy Field  Print Story Photo Icon
DALLAS – Dr. Ellen Jordan, Texas Cooperative Extension dairy specialist, has received the American Dairy Science Association's DeLaval Dairy Extension Award.

July 31, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Print Story Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION --While the persistent rains throughout most of the state have broken the long-standing drought, results have been both a blessing and a curse to farmers and livestock producers, according to Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

July 30, 2007
Alfalfa Workshop Set For Aug. 9 in Farwell  Print Story
FARWELL -- Crop producers, cattle raisers and grass farmers who are interested in alfalfa should mark Aug. 9 on their calendars. That is the date for a regional alfalfa workshop in Farwell, sponsored by Texas Cooperative Extension and New Mexico State University.

July 27, 2007
Texas A&M University System Regents Name Agricultural Agency Leaders  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - New leaders have been named for two Texas agricultural agencies which are part of The Texas A&M University System.

July 27, 2007
New Texas Cooperative Extension Agent Hired in Sherman County  Print Story Photo Icon
STRATFORD – David Graf is coming back to Texas Cooperative Extension, and he's looking forward to working with youth again, as well as rejoining the family atmosphere of the agency.

July 26, 2007
Sorghum Producers Optimistic About Biofuel Potential  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Motorists traveling along Brazos bottom farmland just outside of College Station are doing double takes over a towering 12-foot sorghum crop.

July 26, 2007
San Angelo Center Readies for 34th Annual Sheep and Goat Field Day  Print Story
SAN ANGELO -- The impact bio-energy is having on the sheep and goat industry will be the focus of this year's 34th annual Sheep and Goat Field Day at the Texas A&M University System Research and Extension Center in San Angelo.

July 25, 2007
Two QuickBooks Short Courses Offered for Farmers and Ranchers  Print Story
AMARILLO – Courses covering the business accounting program QuickBooks Pro will be offered in Amarillo and Lubbock in August, a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist said.

July 24, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Prolonged wet weather followed by a dry spell can mean trouble in anthrax-prone areas, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

July 24, 2007
Free August Seminar to Focus on Livestock, Wildlife  Print Story
SAN ANTONIO – Texas Cooperative Extension and the Bexar Beef Cattle Committee will present a free "Livestock and Wildlife Seminar" from 6-9 p.m. on Aug. 23. The program will be in Suite 208 of the Extension office in Bexar County, located at 3355 Cherry Ridge Drive, San Antonio.

July 23, 2007
Welch Named New State Extension Grain Marketing Economist  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Mark Welch has been named Texas Cooperative Extension state grain marketing and policy economist.

July 23, 2007
New Texas Cooperative Extension Agent Hired in Oldham County  Print Story Photo Icon
VEGA – Knowing the programs offered by Texas Cooperative Extension can be beneficial to both producers and students, Charlie Martin can't wait to start as the new agriculture agent in Oldham County, he said.

July 23, 2007
Familiar Pests Return Early  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
DALLAS – They're like uninvited guests who show up too early for the party. To make matters worse, they get underfoot and smell.

July 20, 2007
R.B. Dooley ’39 Endowed Graduate Scholarship Established at Texas A&M  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – An endowed graduate scholarship honoring the late R.B. Dooley, a professor of agriculture at Angelo State University in San Angelo for 30 years, has been established by family members at Texas A&M University.

July 20, 2007
Extension Sets 3 Dove Appreciation Days Across Texas  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Widespread rainfall across Texas should mean excellent dove hunting for much of the state, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension wildlife expert at San Angelo.

July 19, 2007
Beef Marketing Course To Begin Aug. 21  Print Story
AMARILLO – Beef Marketing and Management 2010, a series of educational activities for people involved in the beef industry, kicks off in August, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

July 19, 2007
Can Artichokes Bring New Heart to Texas Agriculture?  Print Story Photo Icon
UVALDE – U.S. Department of Agriculture figures show that California produces almost all of the nation's commercial artichokes. But a team of agricultural researchers is working to change that, said Dr. Daniel Leskovar, a vegetable physiologist with Texas Agricultural Experiment Station.

July 18, 2007
Anthrax Case Reported in Tom Green County  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – On July 13, the Texas Animal Health Commission confirmed that 17 head of cattle and a number of deer have died of anthrax in northern Tom Green County. The news release was posted on its Web site http://www.tahc.state.tx.us/ .

July 18, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Print Story Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION - - Weeks of frequent rainfall have southeast hay producers crying, "uncle," according to Wayne Thompson, Texas Cooperative Extension agent for agriculture in Harris County.

July 18, 2007
Field Day to Focus on Agriculture’s Role in Alternative Energy  Print Story
BUSHLAND – Agriculture is growing more than just food and clothing these days, local researchers say. Because energy is the latest potential crop to be harvested, a field day featuring agriculture's role in the energy industry is scheduled for Aug. 8.

July 17, 2007
In Preparing for Disasters, Who You Gonna Call? Try 2-1-1  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Fires ... floods ... hurricanes ... Sometimes the best way to survive a disaster – natural or otherwise – is to get out of its way.

July 16, 2007
Rangeland Management Workshop Set for Aug. 17  Print Story
MIAMI – A workshop and field day designed to help ranchers improve their plant identification skills is set for Aug. 17 at the Mesa Vista Ranch, said a Texas Cooperative Extension agent. The ranch is located 32 miles north of Pampa on U.S. Hwy. 70 in Roberts County.

July 13, 2007
Former Agent Named to National 4-H Hall of Fame  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – From her days as a 4-H member and president of the Dallas County 4-H Council to her career as a 4-H agent in Belton, Tammera Beckham has dedicated her life to the 4-H program, said Preston Sides, chair of the Texas 4-H Hall of Fame Committee.

July 13, 2007
Mirkov Rewarded For Patented Sugarcane Research  Print Story Photo Icon
WESLACO -- A scientist in South Texas has earned a string of awards recently for developing patented methods designed to greatly expand where sugarcane can be grown -- and what it produces.

July 12, 2007
New Texas Cooperative Extension Leadership Announced  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Three administrators have been named for key positions with Texas Cooperative Extension, according to said Dr. Ed Smith, Extension director in College Station.

July 12, 2007
Playa Lakes Are A Valuable Plains Resource  Print Story Photo Icon
FLOYDADA – So how's your playa...is it holding water during this unusually wet year? Is it sporting a lush bloom of vegetation, in the water and on the land surrounding it?

July 11, 2007
Texas A&M's Borlaug To Receive Congressional Gold Medal  Print Story Photo Icon
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Texas A&M Agriculture's Dr. Norman Borlaug will be presented the Congressional Gold Medal July 17 for unparalleled efforts at "bringing radical change to world agriculture and uplifting humanity," according to the U.S. Congress.

July 11, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – With flood waters receding in most areas of Central Texas, the major chore of cleaning up now begins, according to Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

July 10, 2007
Extension Economist: Increased Consumer Demand for Milk Products Driving Up Prices  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – The popular catch phrase ‘Got Milk?' is taking on new meaning after a spike in demand for milk-related products, a Texas Cooperative Extension economist said.

July 09, 2007
West Texas Deer Study Group to Meet Aug. 7-8 in San Angelo  Print Story
SAN ANGELO - ‘The West Texas Deer Study Group will have its 10th annual program Aug. 7-8 at the Texas A&M University System Research and Extension Center in San Angelo. Anyone interested in deer management is invited to attend. The meeting starts with registration at 8 a.m. Aug. 7.

July 09, 2007
Texas A&M System Awarded $5 Million for Bioenergy Research  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION -- Gov. Rick Perry announced today that The Texas A&M University System has received a $5 million grant from the state's Emerging Technology Fund for the Texas A&M Agriculture and Engineering Bioenergy Alliance. "The Texas A&M System has a reputation for excellence in research. We strive to maintain and improve upon that reputation by hiring outstanding faculty and providing them with the tools they need to rise to the top of their field," said Michael D. McKinney, chancellor of the Texas A&M System. "This funding from our state's leadership will be used for groundbreaking research to create alternative fuels to solve our world's energy challenges."

July 09, 2007
Officials Warn West Nile Virus Is Back  Print Story
CANYON -- Lots of rain leaves standing water. Standing water attracts mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can carry West Nile Virus. And July is the prime month for cases of the disease to start showing up, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

July 06, 2007
Researcher: Feeding Distiller’s Grains Vital to Future Livestock Operation Success  Print Story
AMARILLO – There's no reason the cattle-feeding industry in Texas cannot remain strong and viable if it incorporates distiller's grains into rations, said a Texas Agricultural Experiment Station researcher.

July 05, 2007
Expert: Federal Aid Available For Some Flood Victims  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – If the rain clouds hanging over Texas have a silver lining, it might be this: Some people affected by the recent flooding could be eligible for federal aid, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

July 05, 2007
Day Care Decision No Small Matter for Parents  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Here's a question many parents must consider: Is putting their children in day care good, bad or indifferent?

July 04, 2007
Texas Cooperative Extension Announces New Agent in Briscoe/Hall Counties  Print Story Photo Icon
MEMPHIS – Missy Reynolds has been named Texas Cooperative Extension family and consumer science agent in Hall and Briscoe counties, according to Donna Brauchi, Extension district administrator.

July 03, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather Report  Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – While rain has been plentiful across Texas, it's throwing a kink into hay harvesting activities but producing bumper grain crop yields, Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

July 03, 2007
Texas Wine Industry Participants Have Plenty to Ponder  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon Video Icon
COLLEGE STATION – The domestic demand for wine is so great that Texas could produce twice as many wine grapes as it does – and sell far more wine, said a Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association official.

July 02, 2007
Texas Wheat Fairing Well Despite Rain-Delayed Harvest  Print Story Photo Icon
WACO – Though shaping up to be a great Texas wheat crop, continued rainfall is putting harvest efforts behind schedule. Producers should be mindful of several potential issues when things do dry out, according to one Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

July 02, 2007
Reducing Feed Costs, Grazing Management Strategies Topics of Beef Cattle Short Course  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Hay production costs have risen sharply in recent years due to higher fertilizer, equipment, fuel, and labor prices. Supplemental feed costs have also increased.

June 29, 2007
Diary of a Wildlife, Fish Manager: New Calendar Makes it Easier  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – The number of people buying and managing rural property for wildlife recreation is increasing at an exponential rate – and so is the need for information on managing ponds or land, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

June 29, 2007
GIS to Help Ranchers Manage Natural Resources  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Texas Cooperative Extension will present an introductory Geographic Information System workshop at 8:30 a.m. July 12 at the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center in San Angelo.

June 29, 2007
Curs Named Assistant Director for Foreign Operations at Borlaug Institute  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Stephanie Curs has been named assistant director for foreign operations at the Norman E. Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture, part of the Texas A&M University System.

June 28, 2007
Extension Provides Free Information on Flood Preparation, Recovery  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Texas Cooperative Extension has free information available on what to do before, during and after a flood, said an Extension expert.

June 27, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – "Wet" is still the primary story across Texas. And wheat harvests are having problems due to the abundance of moisture, according to Texas Cooperative Extension officials.

June 26, 2007
Extension Names New Family and Consumer Science Agent in Moore County  Print Story Photo Icon
DUMAS – Membership in 4-H and involvement with Texas Cooperative Extension as a youth prompted Karen Russell to get a college degree in home economics, she said. Now she's returning to give back.

June 26, 2007
Texas Cooperative Extension Hires Three New Agents for Four Counties  Print Story
COLEMAN – Texas Cooperative Extension has named three new agents for four West Texas counties, according to Scott Durham, Extension administrator at San Angelo.

June 25, 2007
Noted Texas A&M University Tortilla Researcher Succumbs to Cancer  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Dr. Ralph Waniska, a professor of food science and technology in the Cereal Quality Laboratory at Texas A&M University, passed away Monday following a lengthy battle with cancer.

June 25, 2007
Technology Team Shows 4-H Firmly Focused on Future  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Texas 4-H traces its roots back 100 years to the first boys' corn club in Jack County.

June 25, 2007
Stephen C. Helbing Sr. ’48 Scholarship Established at Texas A&M’s Agricultural Economics Department  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Stephen C. Helbing Sr.'s family gave him a surprise for his recent 80th birthday: An $80,000 scholarship endowment in his honor.

June 22, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY/Request for Coverage: “Speak Out for Military Kids” Event – Training and Reception  Print Story
Background: "Operation: Military Kids" is a partnership of Army Child and Youth Services, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National 4-H program, and other organizations. National participants in the program include 4-H, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, the American Legion, and the Military Child Education Coalition. These and other groups work together to support military children and youth across the country.

June 21, 2007
Fredericksburg Facility Will Address Top Wine Industry Threat  Print Story Photo Icon
FREDERICKSBURG – The newly opened Texas Pierce's Disease Research and Extension Program facility in Fredericksburg may yield solutions for mitigating the single-greatest threat to the Texas wine industry, experts said.

June 21, 2007
Gayle to retire as head of Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Lab  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION -- Dr. Lelve G. Gayle, executive director of the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory since 2002, announced this week that he is retiring on July 31.

June 20, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather Report  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – In a word, "wet" describes most of Texas. And while the moisture is beneficial to most crops - except wheat and other crops awaiting harvest - it also has produced abundant weeds, according to Texas Cooperative Extension officials.

June 20, 2007
Managing Medications Critical to Overall Health Care and Cost  Print Story
AMARILLO – Prescription and non-prescription medications are important for good health, but without proper management they may have unintended side-effects, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

June 19, 2007
One Point Defines National Wool Judging Winners  Print Story
SONORA – One point – that's all that separated first and second places in two of the main judging contests which were held in conjunction with the 70th annual Sonora Wool and Mohair Show. The contests and the show were June 12-14 in Sonora.

June 18, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY: 44th Stiles Farm Foundation Field Day  Print Story
Background: Stiles Farm is a non-profit, self-supporting institution established by bequest of the late J.V. and H.A. Stiles for the advancement of agriculture to benefit all Texans. A field day is held at Stiles Farm each year to introduce producers to the latest research and best management practices. Morning presentation topics this year include: biofuels opportunities for producers, new approaches to chemical weed control, soil quality and root development evaluation, and forage resources. In the afternoon, a demonstration on the use of sprayers, strip-tilling machines and other equipment will be presented, along with a beef cattle industry update.

June 15, 2007
August Estate Planning Seminar Tailored for Ranchers  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Ranchers can learn how recent changes in tax laws may affect their estate plans by attending a seminar scheduled for Aug. 8-9 at the College Station Conference Center, 1300 George Bush Drive.

June 14, 2007
DTN Partners with Texas Cooperative Extension Executive Program  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – DTN, a provider of real-time market, news and weather information services, is partnering with Texas Cooperative Extension, its Executive Program for Ag Producers and Extension economist Danny Klinefelter.

June 14, 2007
Air Emissions Project to Get Under Way at Oklahoma Swine Operation  Print Story Photo Icon Video Icon
AMARILLO -- Determining how much air emissions area hog facilities release from their buildings is a two-year project for a local Texas Agricultural Experiment Station air quality engineer.

June 13, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Although high winds and hail damaged crops in some regions, beneficial weather conditions throughout most of the state helped farmers and cattle producers, Texas Cooperative Extension reports stated.

June 13, 2007
When in Drought, Use Rainwater  Print Story Photo Icon
FORNEY – Nature can be stingy with rain, so hoard it when you can.

June 11, 2007
Can’t Stand the Heat? Stay Out of the Tanning Booth  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – All tans are created equal, no matter what the source of the damaging ultraviolet rays, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

June 08, 2007
Competition, Biofuel Corn, Labor Costs Topics at 2007 Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – "The Changing Dynamics of the Texas Beef Industry" is the theme for this year's Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course. The short course will be Aug. 6-8 at Texas A&M University in College Station.

June 08, 2007
Sonora to Mark 70 Years of Wool and Mohair Contests  Print Story
SONORA – This year marks the 70th annual Wool and Mohair Show and the 47th annual National 4-H Wool Judging Contest. Both will be held in conjunction with the seventh annual FFA Wool Judging Contest June 12-14 in Sonora.

June 08, 2007
Gift Agreement Inked for Texas Water Resources Institute  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION – A $2 million endowment agreement between the Texas A&M Foundation and the Zeros Energy & Water Alliance was signed last week.

June 07, 2007
MEDIA ADISORY: Big City, Big Country Set for June 11-15  Print Story
WHAT: Big City, Big Country Road Show.

June 07, 2007
Playa Management for Wildlife Meetings Planned in June  Print Story Photo Icon
CANYON – Wildlife-friendly management of playa lakes promises to be significant in Texas due to the unique functions these wetlands provide, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

June 6, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather  Audio Icon Photo Icon Video Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Heavy rains in many areas of the state benefitted row crops, greened up pastures, but delayed hay harvests and planting of some crops, reported Texas Cooperative Extension agents.

June 06, 2007
Extension Specialist Concentrate on What’s ‘Buggin’ Wheat  Print Story Photo Icon
AMARILLO – Yellowed or brown leaves on wheat may be caused by drought, disease, pests or too much rain. Dr. Ron French puts the plant under a microscope to determine the exact problem.

June 05, 2007
Hundreds of Flowering Bedding Plants to be Showcased at Upcoming Hort Field Day  Print Story Photo Icon Video Icon
OVERTON – On June 28, nursery growers, greenhouse managers and gardening enthusiasts can view field tests of flowering bedding plant varieties at the annual Overton Horticultural Field Day.

June 04, 2007
Survey to Determine Quail Return Rate After Wildfires  Print Story Photo Icon
CANYON – Texas Agricultural Experiment Station and Texas Cooperative Extension personnel are trying to find out how and when quail populations in the High Plains will recover after last year's wildfires.

June 01, 2007
Rangeland Monitoring Workshop Set For June 13 At Alpine  Print Story
ALPINE – Sul Ross State University's Everett E. Turner Center in Alpine will be the site for a rangeland monitoring workshop from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on June 13.

June 01, 2007
Gray Water Alternative for Sub-irrigating Landscape Plants  Print Story Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – When the weather turns dry, Texans may start thinking about the best ways to avoid high water bills and still maintain their landscaping. Gray water may be one option, said Dr. Bruce Lesikar, Texas Cooperative Extension agricultural engineer.

May 31, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather  Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION –Livestock and crop conditions are improving in many regions following a series of slow-moving weather systems bringing rain.

May 30, 2007
MEDIA ADVISORY/New Pierce’s Disease Research Facility Will Open in Fredericksburg June 14  Print Story Background: According to the Texas Wine and Grape Growers Association, the Texas wine industry has an economic impact of about $1 billion. There is an estimated 3,700 acres of family-owned vineyard land throughout the state, according to the association. Pierce's disease, caused by a bacterium and transmitted by insect vectors, is the single greatest threat to Texas wine-grape production.

May 30, 2007
Chevron, Texas A&M Form Alliance To Convert Non-food Crops into Renewable Fuels  Print Story
SAN RAMON, Calif. – Chevron Corp. and Texas A&M Agriculture and Engineering BioEnergy Alliance are joining in research to accelerate the conversion of crops for manufacturing ethanol and other biofuels from cellulose.

May 30, 2007
Alternative Crops Garner a Second Look  Print Story Photo Icon
ETTER – A change in the agriculture picture in the High Plains is bringing several alternative crops back into the spotlight, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

May 29, 2007
Texas A&M System Regents Approve Organizational Changes  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION — The Texas A&M University System Board of Regents has approved several organizational changes and appointments recommended by Chancellor Michael D. McKinney, M.D.

May 29, 2007
Free Seminar on Bats Offered to Professionals  Print Story Photo Icon
HOUSTON–A free seminar on bats will be offered from 8:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. on June 8 in the boardroom of the Klein Independent School District offices, 7200 Spring Cypress Road, in Klein.

May 28, 2007
Targeted Grazing Book Offers a New Look at an Old Practice  Print Story Photo Icon
SAN ANGELO – Sheep and goats can take some of the frustration – and expense – out of the fight against noxious weeds and brush, said a West Texas researcher.

May 25, 2007
Pierce’s Disease Program Efforts Important to Texas Wine Industry  Print Story Photo Icon
MARBLE FALLS – A collaborative effort between a federal and state agency, several universities, and Texas and California grape producers is addressing the greatest threat to the Texas wine industry.

May 24, 2007
Aggressive Termites Found in North Texas Community  Print Story Photo Icon
WYLIE – Entomologists with Texas Cooperative Extension are helping a Dallas-area community hunt Formosan subterranean termites, one of the most aggressive and destructive species in the world.

May 23, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather Report  Print Story Audio Story
SAN ANGELO – A Texas Cooperative Extension expert said the amount of soil moisture at planting is one of the most accurate predictors of crop yields at harvest time. But with the good also, comes the bad.

May 23, 2007
Cleaner Manure Burns Hotter in Ethanol Processing  Print Story Photo Icon
HEREFORD – Clean manure may sound like an oxymoron, but Dr. Brent Auvermann is working with feedyard owners to help them get the most "spark" from it as a fuel source.

May 23, 2007
Brown County Sets Pesticide Applicator Training and Testing Day  Print Story
BROWNWOOD – Texas Cooperative Extension in Brown County has scheduled a pesticide applicator training and testing day. The event will take place at 8 a.m. June 13 at the Brown County Fairgrounds on U.S. Highway 377 South.

May 22, 2007
Master Beef Volunteer Training to be Held in June  Print Story
LUBBOCK – Future 4-H beef project leaders are invited to attend a statewide Texas 4-H Master Beef Volunteer Training to be held June 1-3 at the Texas Tech University Animal Science Building in Lubbock.

May 22, 2007
Extension, Others Offering Free Ag Chemical Disposal Opportunities  Print Story
LULING – Texas Cooperative Extension, in cooperation with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality and Texas Department of Agriculture, will offer three free agricultural chemical collection events in June.

May 22, 2007
'Gators and Cattails Spark Science Curiosity in Brazoria Fourth-Graders   Print Story Audio Story Photo Icon Video Icon
ANGLETON — Introduce a fourth-grader to a baby alligator, and he's likely to become interested in Gulf Coast ecology, according to Ed Barrios, president of the Cradle of Texas Chapter of Master Naturalists.

May 22, 2007
Crop Pest Scouting Workshop Set for June 1 in Plainview  Print Story
PLAINVIEW – Producers and agriculture consultants can hone their pest management and crop production skills at the High Plains Crop Pest Scouting Workshop on June 1. The event is sponsored by Texas Cooperative Extension.

May 21, 2007
Extension Economist: Fall in Spring Onion Prices Reflects Supply, Demand  Print Story Photo Icon
UVALDE – While most Rio Grande Valley onion producers were able to get excellent prices earlier this spring, the market has weakened in past weeks, leading to reduced profits for those harvesting now, said a Texas Cooperative Extension economist in Uvalde.

May 21, 2007
Save Your Skin: Cover Up in the Sun Now   Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – That tan may look 'healthy;' those freckles may be cute, but in reality both are skin damage caused by the sun, said a Texas Cooperative Extension expert.

May 18, 2007
2007 Blackland Income Growth Ag Tour Set for Monterey, Salinas Valley, Calif.  Print Story
DALLAS - The 2007 annual Blackland Income Growth Agricultural Tour will visit the .Salad Bowl of the World. Aug. 13-17 in the Monterey and Salinas Valley areas of California.

May 18, 2007
Extension to Host Sheep and Goat Internal Parasite Program  Print Story
BROWNWOOD - Texas Cooperative Extension in Brown County will host a sheep and goat internal parasite program at 6 p.m. May 29. The event will be at the Brown County Fairgrounds on U.S. Highway 377 South.

May 18, 2007
Hunting Bird Grower and Hunting Preserve Conferences Set for June National Title  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - A series of conferences for landowners wanting to know more about the bird hunting industry will be held throughout the state in June.

May 17, 2007
Hall Named Ellison International Floriculture Chairholder at Texas A&M  Print Story Photo Icon

COLLEGE STATION – Dr. Charlie Hall has been named holder of the Ellen and Jim Ellison Chair in International Floriculture at Texas A&M University's department of horticultural sciences. Hall, who for the past five years has been professor of agricultural economics at the University of Tennessee, previously was a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

May 17, 2007
Biotechnology Conference to Focus on ‘Genetic Solutions for Today’s World’<  Print Story
May 16, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Print Story Audio Story
COLLEGE STATION - Crop and range conditions are benefiting from recent rainfall, Texas Cooperative Extension reports.

May 15, 2007
Small Beetle Has Big Appetite for Elm Leaves  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - DALLAS – Tiny beetles have been ravaging North Texas elm trees this spring, said experts with Texas Cooperative Extension. Requests for information about the elm flea weevil have poured in from five counties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, said Dr. Mike Merchant, an Extension entomologist in Dallas.

May 15, 2007
White-tailed Deer Day Set for May 15 in Reagan County  Print Story
BIG LAKE – Texas Cooperative Extension plans to showcase the latest trends affecting the deer hunting industry with its White-tailed Deer Appreciation Day. The event is set for 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 22 on the Rocker B Ranch.

May 14, 2007
Agricultural Researcher: Texas Rivers, Lakes Safer than Expected for Drinking, Recreation  Print Story
EL PASO –- A research program that uses DNA fingerprinting to determine the source of E. coli in Texas waterways won this year's Environmental Excellence Award in Agriculture. The program, which seeks ways to improve water quality, received the award from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

May 14, 2007
Carbon Credit Brokers Offer Extra Income to Forest Landowners  Print Story  Pictures
OVERTON – Sign a contract and getting paid not to harvest your trees? And still own your trees at the end of the contract?
Better yet, how about getting paid retroactively for your timber acres back to 2003?

May 11, 2007
Cancer Screenings Now More Available to Underinsured, Uninsured Women  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Cancer prevention screenings just became more affordable for women who have little or no health insurance, said Courtney Schoessow, Texas Cooperative Extension program specialist for health education and development.

May 11, 2007
Heat -Tolerant Cherry Red Petunias Designated Newest Texas Superstars  Print Story  Pictures
OVERTON – Tidal Wave Cherry petunias are a bright red that can be seen from a quarter mile away, said a Texas A&M horticulturist.

May 11, 2007
2007 Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course Set for Aug. 6-8  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - The 53rd annual Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course will be held Aug. 6-8 at Texas A&M University in College Station.

May 11, 2007
Small Grains Field Day Scheduled for May 24  Print Story
ETTER -Producers will have a chance to see how varieties of wheat, canola and triticale performed under this year's wet spring conditions at the Small Grains Field Day.

May 10, 2007
Dry Spring May Make Rainwater Harvesting Systems Even More Attactive  Print Story Audio Story
COLLEGE STATION - With the news that La Nina may bring another dry spring to the state, Texans may be looking at installing rainwater harvesting systems to help water landscapes and ease utility bills, according to a Texas Cooperative Extension agricultural engineer.

May 10, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Print Story Audio Story
COLLEGE STATION - Most parts of the state reported rain this week. In some cases, it delayed agriculture operations; in others, it provided a little relief during an extended drought.

May 8, 2007
Military Kids Invited to Free 'Operation Purple' Camp in Brownwood  Print Story
BROWNWOOD - Children of military families of all service branches are invited to apply to attend a free Operation Purple summer camp from July 30 to Aug. 3 in Brownwood.

May 8, 2007
Inflammatory Breast Cancer Requires Additional Vigilance  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Not all breast cancers start with a lump, said Courtney Schoessow, Texas Cooperative Extension program specialist for health education and development.

May 7, 2007
Lower Numbers of Some Mosquitoes May Mean Fewer Cases of West Nile  Print Story Audio Story
COLLEGE STATION - Cool spring weather in the eastern half of Texas may have slowed the buildup of West Nile virus in mosquitoes and birds.

May 7, 2007
St. Augustine Takes Beating from Drought, Freezing Temperatures and Disease  Print Story
DALLAS -- Dr. Jim McAfee has heard it time and again about St. Augustine grass this spring: "You mean my lawn's not the only one?"

May 7, 2007
Prescribed Burn Workshop Aug. 2-4 in Sonora  Print Story
SONORA - Ranch owners and managers interested in learning about prescribed burning are invited to an Academy for Ranch Management workshop Aug. 2-4 at the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station at Sonora.

May 4, 2007
Extension Agent: Feral Hogs 'Out-of-Control'  Print Story  Pictures
PITTSBURG - A feral hog management field day will address the worsening issue of feral hog damage in northeast Texas, said a Texas Cooperative Extension agent.

May 3, 2007
Pheasant Appreciation Day Planned for May 15  Print Story  Pictures
NAZARETH - Interest in Texas pheasants is gaining more momentum, both for hunting and for just observing them, said a Texas Cooperative Extension specialist.

May 3, 2007
Texas A&M Team to Add a 'Grain of Common Sense' to Biofuel Options  Print Story  Pictures
COLLEGE STATION - The U.S. has entered the "era of the bio-economy," said U.S. Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Gale Buchanan.
"This could have the most important impact on agriculture in 150 years. To fully meet the nation's needs for sustainable resources, we've got to look at all types of feedstock," said Buchanan, who recently visited the Texas A&M University System campus at College Station on May 1.

May 3, 2007
Sutton County Program Targets 'Do-It-Yourself' Rancher  Print Story
SONORA - Texas Cooperative Extension will present a multi-county .Ranchers. RoundUP. workshop from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on May 22 at the Sutton County Civic Center. The center is located at 1700 N. Crockett in Sonora.

May 2, 2007
Rural Ranchers Help Trinity River and Themselves Print Story Picture Story
STREETMAN -- Dr. Jim Cathey dipped a bottle into the Trinity River and held it up to the sun. The water was as murky as chocolate milk.

May 2, 2007
Texas Crop, Weather  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Rains fell this past week to the benefit of farmers and ranchers throughout the Lone Star State. While some damage from recent hail, tornados and flooding was reported, crops and livestock grazing generally got a welcome boost from these rains – and from warmer weather.

May 2, 2007
Scientists Seek Useful Traits in Wild Cottons  Print Story  Pictures
LUBBOCK - If you have Mom's smile, Dad's eyes and Grandpa's laugh, you might wonder what other traits you picked up from the genealogic fabric of the ol' family tree.

April 30, 2007
Mineola Garden Tests Earth Kind Roses for East Texas  Print Story  Pictures  Audio Story
MINEOLA - The common perception is that roses are hard to grow, requiring lots of pesticides and work. But that's just not true, particularly with Earth Kind roses, said Pete Smith, Master Gardener and the mayor of Mineola.

April 30, 2007
Texas Grape Industry to Discuss Pierce's Disease Outlook for State  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Grape growers and wine industry leaders will meet with top Texas researchers here on May 21 to discuss strategies to combat Pierce's Disease, a condition that can be devastating to vineyards.

April 30, 2007
Texas-Sized Sorghum: New Solution for Fuel?  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION - Big Sorghum is moving up on Big Oil in Texas. Ten-foot tall stalks of bioenergy sorghum, planted on thousands of acres, could march across Texas just as oil derricks once did, replacing black gold with green gold.

April 27, 2007
Rural Car Crash Mortality Rate Higher  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION – Never mind mosquitoes, bees or ants: With the coming of warmer weather, Texans are likely to be bitten by the travel bug, said Bev Kellner, Texas Cooperative Extension program coordinator for passenger safety.

April 24, 2007
Research Aims to Reduce Injury, Illness in Horses  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION -- Injuries such as the one that felled 2006 Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro are tragic. Research at Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary and Biomedical Medicine is focused on reducing that type of health issue -- and some aren't quite so apparent.

April 24, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather Report  Print Story
COLLEGE STATION -- Producers and agricultural officials around the state continue to assess the impact of an East$ Extension officials.

April 23, 2007
Be A Good Neighbor When Using Phenoxy Herbicides  Print Story
LUBBOCK - There's an old saying ..."good fences make good neighbors." While good fences often separate productive crop land and different crops, they do little to stop herbicide drift.

April 23, 2007
Standard Agricultural Practices for Dove Hunters Focus of May 8 Meeting  Print Story
BEAUMONT - To help agricltural producers and dove hunters stay informed of the latest practices with winter pasture establishment, a May 8 meeting has been scheduled in Beaumont.

April 23, 2007
Belew Named Dallas Marketing Coordinator  Print Story
DALLAS - Kat Belew, a recent graduate of Texas A&M University, has been named marketing coordinator for the Texas A&M University System Agricultural Research and Extension Center at Dallas.

April 23, 2007
Mason County Sets Spring Beef Cattle Field Day  Print Story
MASON - The Spring Beef Cattle Field Day presented by Texas Cooperative Extension is set for 9 a.m. May 16 at the Mason County Community Center.

April 20, 2007
Concho/McCulloch County Wheat Tour Set for May 15  Print Story
MILLERSVIEW - Texas Cooperative Extension in Concho and McCulloch counties will hold its annual wheat tour from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 15, at the Millersview Gymnasium.

April 20, 2007
Annual Heart of Texas Cow/Calf Clinic Becomes More 'User-Friendly'  Print Story
BROWNWOOD - For 28 years, Texas Cooperative Extension's annual Heart of Texas Cow/Calf Clinic has been a morning program. This year, to make it more "user-friendly," it will be in the evening, said Scott Anderson, Extension agent in Brown County.

April 19, 2007
Shaw Named Associate at Texas A&M Renewable Natural Resources Institute  Print Story Photo Icon
COLLEGE STATION - Dr. Bob Shaw has been named associate director of the Texas A&M Institute of Renewable Natural Resources, effective May 1.

April 18, 2007
Human Gene Technology May Show Horse Traders Where to Place Their Chips  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Horse trading could come down to a computer chip, thanks to research done at Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences.

April 18, 2007
Texas Crop and Weather  Print Story Photo Icon Audio Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Wet though cool weather improved range and pasture conditions across the state, but some crops took a hit from last week's freeze, report Texas Cooperative Extension agents and specialists.

April 17, 2007
Tom Green County Quail Appreciation Day Set For May 3  Print Story
SAN ANGELO – Texas Cooperative Extension in Tom Green County has scheduled a "Quail Appreciation Day" from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. May 3.

April 17, 2007
Researcher Focuses on Pros, Cons of Antioxidants from Fruits and Vegetables  Print Story Audio Icon Video Icon
COLLEGE STATION – Nutrition: It's not just the four basic food groups any more.

April 17, 2007