By ALICIA BOOR
Cottonwood Extension District
ELLSWORTH – Kansas State University extension specialists and agricultural agents and local conservation district representatives will host a field day focused on controlling woody encroachment and other brush management techniques.
This free event, beginning at 10:30 a.m. on November 6, will offer expert advice to the public about how to use chemical and mechanical treatments to combat the spread of invasive trees and brush. It will be hosted at the Robin Kohls Ranch, and a free lunch will be provided to participants.
Organizers say managing the spread of trees on grassland is essential.
“We know that Kansas is losing a lot of acres of grassland and pasture to the spread of trees and other brush,” said Stacie Minson, K-State Research and Extension watershed specialist. “The economic loss for landowners and producers means learning these key land management strategies will be really beneficial now, and into the future.”
The program will include other topics as well, including the use of alternative watering systems for livestock, winter cow nutrition, and other water quality concerns. Minson said that this is especially relevant, as the day’s discussion will help the public learn more about how to improve water quality in Kanopolis Reservoir, which is the oldest reservoir in the state of Kansas.
The field day is sponsored by Big Creek Middle Smoky Hill River Watersheds, Midway Extension District, Ellsworth County Conservation District and Natural Resource Conservation Service in Ellsworth. Speakers from K-State will include experts on soil science, cropping systems, and watershed management.
Those interested in attending are asked to register online at https://kstate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0DnuDqCgW3zs0cu or to call 785-472-3161, ext. 3.