Weedy Alfalfa [4 reasons to manage weeds in your alfalfa stands]
Weedy alfalfa is often a concern when water resources are scarce. The weeds sometimes even seem to outcompete the alfalfa in extremely dry years. Weeds can impact forage quality and contribute to...
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Soil Carbon [Carbon Pools, Carbon Farming and Quality Organic Matter]
Carbon is probably one of the most well-known elements today. There is a global emphasis on carbon dioxide emissions and carbon capture. In terms of agriculture, much of this focus has centered on...
View ArticleWinter Forage Management
Winter management for forage producers looks quite different from the rest of the year. Many might feel as if there must be something they can do to get a jump on next season. Fertilizer application is...
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Why test minerals in forages
Few livestock producers are testing minerals in forages. However, the most common issue we consult on is typically a mineral issue. Proper mineral nutrition ensures healthy animals. Additionally,...
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Understanding protein fractions on a forage report
Forage analysis is the first step to understanding animal protein supplementation requirements. Most producers are familiar with crude protein and understand how this value compares with livestock...
View ArticleCalf Nutrition for Success
Cattle are most vulnerable from birth to about 3 months old. Just after birth, their immune system is underdeveloped leaving them more susceptible to infectious agents. Further, this critical period...
View ArticleBanking in agriculture [a banker’s perspective for Nebraska beef cattle...
What does a bank and a commercial laboratory have in common with your cattle operation? The answer is family values. Dr. Ray Ward founded Ward Laboratories, Inc. on honesty, integrity, and the vision...
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Fertilizer Knowledge [Understanding Fertilizer Forms]
Do you know the difference between P and P2O5 or K and K2O? Understanding fertilizer forms can be key in interpretation of the peer reviewed literature and making decisions based on your own reports....
View ArticleTheory of sampling in agriculture [Do your samples represent your field?]
One of the most common issues that arise in customer service at an agricultural testing laboratory is the dispute over different results for samples meant to represent the same whole. That whole could...
View ArticleWater in Brewing
Water in brewing is often overlooked in discussions about beer. Water is in fact the unsung hero behind every pint. Comprising up to 90% of a beer’s composition, water is the canvas upon which brewers...
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