The Kansas Forest Service Conservation Tree and Shrub sale opened Sept. 1, providing landowners with a source for low-cost tree and shrub seedlings.&nbsp;

“Large conservation plantings can become very costly when several hundreds or thousands of plants are needed to meet the conservation goals of the landowner,” said Aaron Yoder, conservation trees specialist.&nbsp;

Conservation plantings may function as wildlife habitat, windbreaks, wood lots, timber plantations, or educational and riparian (streambank) plantings.&nbsp;

Yoder said species grown in the program are selected for characteristics that make them ideal candidates for conservation plantings. This year, Rusty Blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum), also known as Southern Blackhaw, and New Jersey Tea are two new shrub species offered. Both species are native to Kansas.&nbsp;

“Both species of shrub offer multiple benefits for wildlife, especially as nectar and pollen sources for bees, butterflies and other pollinators,” Yoder said.&nbsp;

Many other native and a few non-native species are offered through the conservation program that will thrive in Kansas and surrounding states.&nbsp;

Planting trees and shrubs in the fall presents several benefits over spring plantings, including less pressure from insects, disease and weeds. Additionally, seedlings planted in the fall have lower moisture demands than spring plantings and soils are typically drier in the fall as compared to wet or saturated soils in the spring, which restrict field preparation and planting activities, according to Yoder.&nbsp;

To provide the greatest chance of success for conservation plantings, seedlings will only be shipped to Great Plains states including Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Arkansas and Missouri. The KFS fall conservation seedling sales coincide with the ideal planting time for these states. Limiting the states served by the conservation program is a change for the 2020 fall season.&nbsp;

In addition to the new shipping limitations, all orders placed in the program must be shipped. The change to a shipping-only policy ensures the safety of KFS staff, their families and the public as the program continues to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

For more information on the Conservation Tree and Shrub program or to place an order beginning on Sept. 1, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/conservation_trees/">https://www.kansasforests.org/conservation_trees/</a>.&nbsp;

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573141354634.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>The Kansas Forest Service Conservation Tree and Shrub sale opened Sept. 1, providing landowners with a source for low-cost tree and shrub seedlings.&nbsp;“Large conservation plantings can become very costly when several hundreds or thousands of plants are needed to meet the conservation goals of the landowner,” said Aaron Yoder, conservation trees specialist.&nbsp;Conservation plantings may function as wildlife habitat, windbreaks, wood lots, timber plantations, or educational and riparian (streambank) plantings.&nbsp;Yoder said species grown in the program are selected for characteristics that make them ideal candidates for conservation plantings. This year, Rusty Blackhaw (Viburnum rufidulum), also known as Southern Blackhaw, and New Jersey Tea are two new shrub species offered. Both species are native to Kansas.&nbsp;“Both species of shrub offer multiple benefits for wildlife, especially as nectar and pollen sources for bees, butterflies and other pollinators,” Yoder said.&nbsp;Many other native and a few non-native species are offered through the conservation program that will thrive in Kansas and surrounding states.&nbsp;Planting trees and shrubs in the fall presents several benefits over spring plantings, including less pressure from insects, disease and weeds. Additionally, seedlings planted in the fall have lower moisture demands than spring plantings and soils are typically drier in the fall as compared to wet or saturated soils in the spring, which restrict field preparation and planting activities, according to Yoder.&nbsp;To provide the greatest chance of success for conservation plantings, seedlings will only be shipped to Great Plains states including Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Colorado, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Arkansas and Missouri. The KFS fall conservation seedling sales coincide with the ideal planting time for these states. Limiting the states served by the conservation program is a change for the 2020 fall season.&nbsp;In addition to the new shipping limitations, all orders placed in the program must be shipped. The change to a shipping-only policy ensures the safety of KFS staff, their families and the public as the program continues to operate during the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;For more information on the Conservation Tree and Shrub program or to place an order beginning on Sept. 1, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansasforests.org/conservation_trees/">https://www.kansasforests.org/conservation_trees/</a>.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;or calling 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

BOOR: Annual tree and shrub sale begins

Are you thinking about purchasing an air fryer as your next small kitchen appliance? Or perhaps you have one but are unsure of its many uses. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, September 2nd and join us at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street, for a free educational program titled, “Healthy Air Fryer Cooking.” Jen Webster, Pawnee County Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, will share her tips for using an air fryer successfully. This busy mom and Extension educator is excited about the versatility of this small appliance that can cut out some of the fat that is used in traditional cooking methods.

I have resisted purchasing an air fryer so far. After all, I have enough things taking up space on my kitchen counter without adding another small appliance. I have received numerous questions about using an air fryer, so I am happy that Jen accepted my invitation to share her experiences preparing food in an air fryer.&nbsp;

So what is an air fryer? An air fryer does not fry food like deep frying or pan frying does – it is more like oven fried. It is basically a little hot air chamber convection oven. It cooks a little faster, distributes heat more evenly, and suspends food in a perforated basket. It can really speed things up, allowing a person to prepare good food quickly.

Most air fryers do not need to preheat, so that saves time. They also cook food quickly, so in warmer climates, they won’t heat up the kitchen the way the oven can. Basically anything you can bake you can make in an air fryer. Various meats are cooked to a perfect temperature, and they remain juicy and tender. Air fryers are also great for cooking most vegetables. A light spritz of olive oil will help your veggies to brown and become crispy. Most veggies are done in under 10 minutes according to my sources.&nbsp;

I heard Jen share that air fryers are also great for reheating leftovers, especially pizza. It revives it and makes it crispy. Jen will share some of her favorite foods to prepare in her air fryer. Her presentation will also include features to keep in mind if you are in the market to purchase an air fryer.&nbsp;

The program Wednesday is free and open to everyone. I hope to see you there!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620) 793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office.</figcaption>
 </figure>Are you thinking about purchasing an air fryer as your next small kitchen appliance? Or perhaps you have one but are unsure of its many uses. Mark your calendar for Wednesday, September 2nd and join us at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street, for a free educational program titled, “Healthy Air Fryer Cooking.” Jen Webster, Pawnee County Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent, will share her tips for using an air fryer successfully. This busy mom and Extension educator is excited about the versatility of this small appliance that can cut out some of the fat that is used in traditional cooking methods.I have resisted purchasing an air fryer so far. After all, I have enough things taking up space on my kitchen counter without adding another small appliance. I have received numerous questions about using an air fryer, so I am happy that Jen accepted my invitation to share her experiences preparing food in an air fryer.&nbsp;So what is an air fryer? An air fryer does not fry food like deep frying or pan frying does – it is more like oven fried. It is basically a little hot air chamber convection oven. It cooks a little faster, distributes heat more evenly, and suspends food in a perforated basket. It can really speed things up, allowing a person to prepare good food quickly.Most air fryers do not need to preheat, so that saves time. They also cook food quickly, so in warmer climates, they won’t heat up the kitchen the way the oven can. Basically anything you can bake you can make in an air fryer. Various meats are cooked to a perfect temperature, and they remain juicy and tender. Air fryers are also great for cooking most vegetables. A light spritz of olive oil will help your veggies to brown and become crispy. Most veggies are done in under 10 minutes according to my sources.&nbsp;I heard Jen share that air fryers are also great for reheating leftovers, especially pizza. It revives it and makes it crispy. Jen will share some of her favorite foods to prepare in her air fryer. Her presentation will also include features to keep in mind if you are in the market to purchase an air fryer.&nbsp;The program Wednesday is free and open to everyone. I hope to see you there!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent in the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office. You may reach her at: (620) 793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Healthy air fryer cooking program

We have had a number of contacts regarding lilacs that were virtually defoliated with leaves showing many spots on the leaves. Cercospora leaf spot appears to be the causal agent. This is one of those diseases that only shows up during wet, humid summers. Though the shrubs look bad, loss of leaves this late in the season will not harm otherwise healthy plants. Therefore, there is no need to apply a fungicide. Also, an application this late would not help anyway. However, cleaning up dead leaves will reduce the amount of inoculum for next year and is recommended. This disease is weather-dependent and requires wet, humid weather at certain times to flourish. Therefore, lilacs that were hammered this year may not become infected next. Even if we do have another wet summer that encourages this disease, we do not recommend a fungicide application as damage to the plant is negligible.

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>We have had a number of contacts regarding lilacs that were virtually defoliated with leaves showing many spots on the leaves. Cercospora leaf spot appears to be the causal agent. This is one of those diseases that only shows up during wet, humid summers. Though the shrubs look bad, loss of leaves this late in the season will not harm otherwise healthy plants. Therefore, there is no need to apply a fungicide. Also, an application this late would not help anyway. However, cleaning up dead leaves will reduce the amount of inoculum for next year and is recommended. This disease is weather-dependent and requires wet, humid weather at certain times to flourish. Therefore, lilacs that were hammered this year may not become infected next. Even if we do have another wet summer that encourages this disease, we do not recommend a fungicide application as damage to the plant is negligible.Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Lilac leaf spot

The Cottonwood Extension District will host a Grain Sorghum Plot Field Day in Barton County on Monday beginning at 9 a.m. It is located 1.75 miles north of Hoisington on Susank Road.&nbsp;

Seed company representatives will be on-hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids. Extension agronomy specialist Lucas Haag will discuss sorghum production practices, and J.P. Michaud, Extension entomologist, will discuss insect issues.

Complimentary breakfast burritos and refreshments will be provided courtesy of the seed companies at 8:30 a.m.&nbsp;

All interested people are invited to attend. RSVP is requested by Friday by emailing Brenda <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> or calling the Great Bend Office at 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598452768758.jpeg" alt="K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>The Cottonwood Extension District will host a Grain Sorghum Plot Field Day in Barton County on Monday beginning at 9 a.m. It is located 1.75 miles north of Hoisington on Susank Road.&nbsp;Seed company representatives will be on-hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids. Extension agronomy specialist Lucas Haag will discuss sorghum production practices, and J.P. Michaud, Extension entomologist, will discuss insect issues.Complimentary breakfast burritos and refreshments will be provided courtesy of the seed companies at 8:30 a.m.&nbsp;All interested people are invited to attend. RSVP is requested by Friday by emailing Brenda <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> or calling the Great Bend Office at 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

Extension's grain sorghum field day set for next week

We are receiving inquiries regarding large wasps flying around. These are the Eastern cicada killer (Sphecius speciosus); not the Asian Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia). Cicada killer females search for, kill, and provision each cell within a nest located in the ground with a dog day cicada (Tibicen pruinosa) adult. The dead cicada is a food source for young cicada killer larvae. Cicada killers are an urban nuisance pest, especially when nesting in large numbers, in bare areas, in turfgrass, or around a structure. People are generally concerned because cicada killers resemble giant yellowjackets or they think cicada killers are the Asian giant hornet. Cicada killers are approximately 2.0 inches long and black with yellow-banded markings on the abdomen. The head and transparent wings are red-brown (Figure&nbsp;

1). Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they are intimidating; especially the males. Cicada killers are ground-nesting solitary wasps, with the female digging a 6 to 10- inch burrow (1/2 inch in diameter) in the ground; usually in sandy or loose soil. A pile of sand or soil, depending on soil type, will surround the entrance.

Females search for and sting large insects such as a cicada or katydid, and then bring the immobilized or paralyzed prey back to the burrow

The female places prey into a chamber in the nest and then lays an egg on the body. Afterward, the female covers the burrow, digs another burrow, and repeats the process. A legless grub-like larva will emerge (eclose) from the egg and proceed to consume the prey. Full-grown larvae overwinter in the burrow, pupate in spring, and emerge as adults from July through August. Male cicada killers establish aerial territories and patrol for intruders. A male cicada killer wards-off other males that enter his territory and attempt to mate with females. An individual that walks into the territory is typically confronted by a very large wasp hovering in front of the face and ‘zips’ to the side and back. However, after determining that the intruder is not a rival or a threat, the male cicada killer ignores the individual. Nevertheless, an individual walking across a lawn, fairway, or other area where cicada killers are nesting, will experience the same treatment through each male’s territory. After females have left the nest then males will eventually leave. Cicada killers, in general, will not sting an individual. Wasp and bee stingers are modified egg-laying devices (ovipositors), so males cannot sting. Females, however, may sting if crushed or if stepped on with bare feet, or grabbed with bare hands.

Cicada killers are common in areas with bare soil, so mulching, planting ground covers, or sodding may reduce issues with cicada killers. Cicada killers can be a problem in well-maintained areas such as irrigated and regularly fertilized turfgrass. In addition, cicada killers can be a problem when nesting in areas accessible to or frequented by the public. Applying carbaryl or pyrethroid insecticides containing the active ingredients; permethrin, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and/or lambda-cyhalothrin to the burrowed area will kill females in golf course sand traps. In home yards, sandboxes should be covered with a tarp when not in use to deter cicada killers. Sand below swings, jungle gyms, or other playground equipment should be replaced with bark mulch or shredded tires. Managing cicada killers in baseball infields and volleyball courts is more challenging because people with minimal clothing and exposed skin are diving and sliding onto the ground; thus making it difficult to recommend using an insecticide. However, in the case of a volleyball court, a geotextile fabric placed beneath the sand may create a barrier that prevents cicada killers from creating burrows.

Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>We are receiving inquiries regarding large wasps flying around. These are the Eastern cicada killer (Sphecius speciosus); not the Asian Giant Hornet (Vespa mandarinia). Cicada killer females search for, kill, and provision each cell within a nest located in the ground with a dog day cicada (Tibicen pruinosa) adult. The dead cicada is a food source for young cicada killer larvae. Cicada killers are an urban nuisance pest, especially when nesting in large numbers, in bare areas, in turfgrass, or around a structure. People are generally concerned because cicada killers resemble giant yellowjackets or they think cicada killers are the Asian giant hornet. Cicada killers are approximately 2.0 inches long and black with yellow-banded markings on the abdomen. The head and transparent wings are red-brown (Figure&nbsp;1). Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they are intimidating; especially the males. Cicada killers are ground-nesting solitary wasps, with the female digging a 6 to 10- inch burrow (1/2 inch in diameter) in the ground; usually in sandy or loose soil. A pile of sand or soil, depending on soil type, will surround the entrance.Females search for and sting large insects such as a cicada or katydid, and then bring the immobilized or paralyzed prey back to the burrowThe female places prey into a chamber in the nest and then lays an egg on the body. Afterward, the female covers the burrow, digs another burrow, and repeats the process. A legless grub-like larva will emerge (eclose) from the egg and proceed to consume the prey. Full-grown larvae overwinter in the burrow, pupate in spring, and emerge as adults from July through August. Male cicada killers establish aerial territories and patrol for intruders. A male cicada killer wards-off other males that enter his territory and attempt to mate with females. An individual that walks into the territory is typically confronted by a very large wasp hovering in front of the face and ‘zips’ to the side and back. However, after determining that the intruder is not a rival or a threat, the male cicada killer ignores the individual. Nevertheless, an individual walking across a lawn, fairway, or other area where cicada killers are nesting, will experience the same treatment through each male’s territory. After females have left the nest then males will eventually leave. Cicada killers, in general, will not sting an individual. Wasp and bee stingers are modified egg-laying devices (ovipositors), so males cannot sting. Females, however, may sting if crushed or if stepped on with bare feet, or grabbed with bare hands.Cicada killers are common in areas with bare soil, so mulching, planting ground covers, or sodding may reduce issues with cicada killers. Cicada killers can be a problem in well-maintained areas such as irrigated and regularly fertilized turfgrass. In addition, cicada killers can be a problem when nesting in areas accessible to or frequented by the public. Applying carbaryl or pyrethroid insecticides containing the active ingredients; permethrin, bifenthrin, cyfluthrin, and/or lambda-cyhalothrin to the burrowed area will kill females in golf course sand traps. In home yards, sandboxes should be covered with a tarp when not in use to deter cicada killers. Sand below swings, jungle gyms, or other playground equipment should be replaced with bark mulch or shredded tires. Managing cicada killers in baseball infields and volleyball courts is more challenging because people with minimal clothing and exposed skin are diving and sliding onto the ground; thus making it difficult to recommend using an insecticide. However, in the case of a volleyball court, a geotextile fabric placed beneath the sand may create a barrier that prevents cicada killers from creating burrows.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Eastern cicada killer

The Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting a Grain Sorghum Plot Field Day in Barton County on Monday, August 31 beginning at 9:00 a.m. It is located 1.75 miles north of Hoisington on Susank Road.

Seed company representatives will be on hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids. Extension agronomy specialists Lucas Haag will discuss sorghum production practices. J.P. Michaud, Extension entomologist will discuss insect issues.

A complimentary breakfast and refreshments will be provided courtesy of the seed companies at 8:30 a.m.

All interested people are invited to attend. 

Call the Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 to RSVP for the Grain Sorghum Field Day hosted by the Cottonwood Extension District on August 31.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1598460211902.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Cottonwood Extension District will be hosting a Grain Sorghum Plot Field Day in Barton County on Monday, August 31 beginning at 9:00 a.m. It is located 1.75 miles north of Hoisington on Susank Road.Seed company representatives will be on hand to discuss their sorghum hybrids. Extension agronomy specialists Lucas Haag will discuss sorghum production practices. J.P. Michaud, Extension entomologist will discuss insect issues.A complimentary breakfast and refreshments will be provided courtesy of the seed companies at 8:30 a.m.All interested people are invited to attend. RSVP is requested by Friday, August 28. Call the Great Bend office at 620-793-1910 to RSVP for the Grain Sorghum Field Day hosted by the Cottonwood Extension District on August 31.

Sign up for Aug. 31 Cottonwood Extension Grain Sorghum Plot Field Day 

What parent does not want the best for their child? All parents also want their children to do well in school. The best time to set a plan in motion is at the beginning of the school year. One of the most important things to do is approach all school work with a positive outlook.&nbsp;

Kathleen A. Olson, Extension educator in family relations from the University of Minnesota suggests setting aside a regular time and place for homework. Help your child with their homework but do not do it for them.&nbsp;

Olson shared these other guidelines for a successful problem-solving approach to school and homework.&nbsp;

It is the parent’s job to help their child develop a system to keep track of assignments and projects. Many schools use an electronic system for parents to track their students’ progress, but don’t forget to look for paper notes and other information that may come home in their backpack. It needs to be checked every day to make sure you don’t miss anything

Don’t forget to recognize your child for work that is well done. Always encourage them and then praise them for papers that are complete and find a place to display work for everyone to see. With a little planning and implementation of some time management tools, you and your child will have a successful school year.

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1588274071306.jpeg" alt="Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Berny Unruh is Family and Community Wellness agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>What parent does not want the best for their child? All parents also want their children to do well in school. The best time to set a plan in motion is at the beginning of the school year. One of the most important things to do is approach all school work with a positive outlook.&nbsp;Kathleen A. Olson, Extension educator in family relations from the University of Minnesota suggests setting aside a regular time and place for homework. Help your child with their homework but do not do it for them.&nbsp;Olson shared these other guidelines for a successful problem-solving approach to school and homework.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Set an example by working on something of your own during the time set aside for homework. Encourage them to ask questions and even think out loud to help them solve a problem. It is important that your child knows that you are available for them.&nbsp;</li><li>Ask your child questions about his homework. Perhaps they could do a problem for you or describe what they’ve been reading. Then, when your child needs help, your goal should be to help them do it themselves. Help them find information. Ask lots of questions. Don’t be afraid to say, "I don’t know." Remember: you’re a guide and a support to your child.</li><li>An assignment may be overwhelming to your child. Help your child break the assignment down and help him identify the steps needed to complete the homework.</li><li>Assist your child with technology. If you have access to a computer, work together so you know what they are doing.&nbsp;</li><li>If you can’t physically be available, you can still set aside a time and place and check on their homework when you get a chance.</li><li>Encourage children to think of their homework as their job. The biggest part of the job is to learn.</li>
 </ol>It is the parent’s job to help their child develop a system to keep track of assignments and projects. Many schools use an electronic system for parents to track their students’ progress, but don’t forget to look for paper notes and other information that may come home in their backpack. It needs to be checked every day to make sure you don’t miss anythingDon’t forget to recognize your child for work that is well done. Always encourage them and then praise them for papers that are complete and find a place to display work for everyone to see. With a little planning and implementation of some time management tools, you and your child will have a successful school year.	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: How to handle homework

Many young, smooth, thin-barked trees such as honeylocusts, fruit trees, ashes, oaks, maples, lindens, and willows are susceptible to sunscald and bark cracks. Sunscald normally develops on the south or southwest side of the tree during late winter. Sunny, warm winter days may heat the bark to relatively high temperatures. 

Research done in Georgia has shown that the southwest side of the trunk of a peach tree can be 40 degrees warmer than shaded bark. This warming action can cause a loss of cold hardiness of the bark tissue resulting in cells becoming active. These cells then become susceptible to lethal freezing when the temperature drops at night. The damaged bark tissue becomes sunken and discolored in late spring.&nbsp; Damaged bark will eventually crack and slough off.&nbsp; Trees often recover but need TLC — especially watering during dry weather.

If you have seen this type of damage in previous years or fear you have susceptible trees, preventative measures are called for.&nbsp; Applying a light-colored tree wrap from the ground to the start of the first branches can protect young and/or recently planted trees. This should be done in October to November and removed the following March. Failure to remove the tree wrap in the spring can prove detrimental to the tree.

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Many young, smooth, thin-barked trees such as honeylocusts, fruit trees, ashes, oaks, maples, lindens, and willows are susceptible to sunscald and bark cracks. Sunscald normally develops on the south or southwest side of the tree during late winter. Sunny, warm winter days may heat the bark to relatively high temperatures. Research done in Georgia has shown that the southwest side of the trunk of a peach tree can be 40 degrees warmer than shaded bark. This warming action can cause a loss of cold hardiness of the bark tissue resulting in cells becoming active. These cells then become susceptible to lethal freezing when the temperature drops at night. The damaged bark tissue becomes sunken and discolored in late spring.&nbsp; Damaged bark will eventually crack and slough off.&nbsp; Trees often recover but need TLC — especially watering during dry weather.If you have seen this type of damage in previous years or fear you have susceptible trees, preventative measures are called for.&nbsp; Applying a light-colored tree wrap from the ground to the start of the first branches can protect young and/or recently planted trees. This should be done in October to November and removed the following March. Failure to remove the tree wrap in the spring can prove detrimental to the tree.Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

FICK: Preventing sunscald on thin-barked trees

If your garden is producing more fresh vegetables than you can work in to the daily menu plan you may want to consider freezing. Most vegetables need to be blanched before freezing to inactivate enzymes and protect their quality. This is done by water or steam blanching. Enzymes are a natural component of food. They work inside food and can change flavor, texture, color and nutrition. Blanching stops enzymes and protects the food from quality changes.&nbsp;

Occasionally I will get a call from someone who asks if blanching can be done in the microwave? Using the microwave may produce poor results. Due to uneven heating, the microwave may not completely inactivate enzymes. This results in off flavors, poor texture and loss of color. The microwave does not save time or energy.&nbsp;

To blanch vegetables correctly, briefly expose them to boiling water or steam. Then cool rapidly in ice water to stop cooking. Blanching destroys microorganisms on the vegetable surface and is essential for top-quality frozen vegetables.

For products like tomatoes you will notice that they will have a mushy texture when thawed and are suitable only for cooking in soups, stews and sauces. Tomatoes that are frozen raw become watery and can develop an off-flavor after a short time in the freezer. Tomatoes that are too ripe for safe canning but still sound and free from decay can be frozen safely.&nbsp;

If you are wanting to freeze sweet corn, it is important to preserve it as soon after harvest as possible for best quality. To prepare corn-on-the-cob for freezing: Blanch small ears (1 ¼ inches or less in diameter) 7 minutes in boiling water; medium-size ears (1 ¼ to 1 ½ inches) 9 minutes; and large ears (1 ½ inches or more) 11 minutes. Cool in several changes of ice cold water and drain. If desired, cut ears into uniform 4-, 6-, or 8-inch pieces and package in freezer bags or containers.

Be aware there is a significant difference between a plastic storage bag and plastic freezer bags. Make sure you are using the heavier freezer bags for best results.

Excellent reference bulletins for a variety of vegetables and fruits are available at: &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.rrc.k-state.edu/preservation/freezing.html">www.rrc.k-state.edu/preservation/freezing.html</a>&nbsp;

A little work now to preserve the harvest will certainly be enjoyed and appreciated next winter! Call me if you have any questions.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>If your garden is producing more fresh vegetables than you can work in to the daily menu plan you may want to consider freezing. Most vegetables need to be blanched before freezing to inactivate enzymes and protect their quality. This is done by water or steam blanching. Enzymes are a natural component of food. They work inside food and can change flavor, texture, color and nutrition. Blanching stops enzymes and protects the food from quality changes.&nbsp;Occasionally I will get a call from someone who asks if blanching can be done in the microwave? Using the microwave may produce poor results. Due to uneven heating, the microwave may not completely inactivate enzymes. This results in off flavors, poor texture and loss of color. The microwave does not save time or energy.&nbsp;To blanch vegetables correctly, briefly expose them to boiling water or steam. Then cool rapidly in ice water to stop cooking. Blanching destroys microorganisms on the vegetable surface and is essential for top-quality frozen vegetables.For products like tomatoes you will notice that they will have a mushy texture when thawed and are suitable only for cooking in soups, stews and sauces. Tomatoes that are frozen raw become watery and can develop an off-flavor after a short time in the freezer. Tomatoes that are too ripe for safe canning but still sound and free from decay can be frozen safely.&nbsp;If you are wanting to freeze sweet corn, it is important to preserve it as soon after harvest as possible for best quality. To prepare corn-on-the-cob for freezing: Blanch small ears (1 ¼ inches or less in diameter) 7 minutes in boiling water; medium-size ears (1 ¼ to 1 ½ inches) 9 minutes; and large ears (1 ½ inches or more) 11 minutes. Cool in several changes of ice cold water and drain. If desired, cut ears into uniform 4-, 6-, or 8-inch pieces and package in freezer bags or containers.Be aware there is a significant difference between a plastic storage bag and plastic freezer bags. Make sure you are using the heavier freezer bags for best results.Excellent reference bulletins for a variety of vegetables and fruits are available at: &nbsp;<a href="http://www.rrc.k-state.edu/preservation/freezing.html">www.rrc.k-state.edu/preservation/freezing.html</a>&nbsp;A little work now to preserve the harvest will certainly be enjoyed and appreciated next winter! Call me if you have any questions.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

KRUG: Prepping vegetables for freezing

A Kansas State University agricultural economist has completed an exhaustive study on hedging cattle prices, which he says could help producers manage their economic risks – perhaps especially so in times of crisis.

Brian Coffey looked at the average price of steers and heifers sold in Kansas between 2010 and June 2020 to determine if hedging – a strategy to lock in prices using futures markets – is a reliable strategy for selling live cattle.

“One thing that came out of this will be surprising to a lot of people,” Coffey said. “If we look just at the average price that live cattle would have been sold for from 2010 to 2020, the hedged prices are lower, but they are only 48 cents per hundredweight (cwt) lower than unhedged sales, on average. In other words, the risk-management benefits of hedging come at a fairly lower cost per hundredweight, on average.

“A lot of times, people have in mind that to get the risk-management benefit of hedging, you take a pretty big hit on expected average returns. But over the long term, we’re just not seeing that.”

Hedging helps to protect against adverse price changes in the markets by allowing a producer who is feeding cattle to establish an approximate selling price now and be protected if prices decline by the time they market those animals later.

“In given weeks or months, you can definitely give up potential gains in some of those extreme times when cash prices rally unexpectedly,” Coffey said. “But you also avoid extreme losses in weeks or months when cash prices decline unexpectedly.”

Coffey notes that more detailed information on hedging is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/">AgManager.info</a>, a website managed by the K-State Department of Agricultural Economics.

In his study, Coffey assumed a feeding period of 160 days while comparing what a producer might have earned on live cattle sales had they hedged those sales instead.

“Basically what I assumed was that a producer would hedge cattle immediately upon placement, then immediately lift the hedge when those live cattle are priced or sold,” he said. “It’s a very disciplined and systematic hedging routine.”

While he found a slight average-price decrease when hedging during normal times, Coffey said hedging can provide huge benefits when disaster hits the industry – such as has happened twice in the past year.

In Fall 2019, a fire destroyed a packing plant owned by Tyson Fresh Meats in Holcomb, Kansas, which had a daily capacity of 6,000 head – or about 6% of the United States’ slaughter capacity.

Coffey compared live cattle prices for 23 weeks, between July and October 2019 to see what impact hedging would have had on producers’ profits.

“What I saw was the hedged price, on average, was about $10 per cwt higher,” he said. “If someone was marketing fed cattle week after week through that same time period, having those cattle hedged was worth an extra $10 per cwt higher.”

Put another way, the average weekly value of gain for hedged cattle was $123 higher per head than for unhedged cattle.

More recently, Coffey also looked at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, comparing prices between February 2020 and the end of June. Again, hedging proved to be a successful strategy during crisis.

“The hedged value of gain averaged about $221 per head higher,” Coffey said.

“The take-home lesson from both of those instances,” he said, “is that hedging can protect from scenarios that can, frankly, end a business. Hedging protects against catastrophic losses.”

Coffey’s full report, titled&nbsp;Hedging Kansas Live Cattle: A Summary of Outcomes over the Past 10 Years, is&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/">available online at Agmanager.info</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>A Kansas State University agricultural economist has completed an exhaustive study on hedging cattle prices, which he says could help producers manage their economic risks – perhaps especially so in times of crisis.Brian Coffey looked at the average price of steers and heifers sold in Kansas between 2010 and June 2020 to determine if hedging – a strategy to lock in prices using futures markets – is a reliable strategy for selling live cattle.“One thing that came out of this will be surprising to a lot of people,” Coffey said. “If we look just at the average price that live cattle would have been sold for from 2010 to 2020, the hedged prices are lower, but they are only 48 cents per hundredweight (cwt) lower than unhedged sales, on average. In other words, the risk-management benefits of hedging come at a fairly lower cost per hundredweight, on average.“A lot of times, people have in mind that to get the risk-management benefit of hedging, you take a pretty big hit on expected average returns. But over the long term, we’re just not seeing that.”Hedging helps to protect against adverse price changes in the markets by allowing a producer who is feeding cattle to establish an approximate selling price now and be protected if prices decline by the time they market those animals later.“In given weeks or months, you can definitely give up potential gains in some of those extreme times when cash prices rally unexpectedly,” Coffey said. “But you also avoid extreme losses in weeks or months when cash prices decline unexpectedly.”Coffey notes that more detailed information on hedging is available at&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/">AgManager.info</a>, a website managed by the K-State Department of Agricultural Economics.In his study, Coffey assumed a feeding period of 160 days while comparing what a producer might have earned on live cattle sales had they hedged those sales instead.“Basically what I assumed was that a producer would hedge cattle immediately upon placement, then immediately lift the hedge when those live cattle are priced or sold,” he said. “It’s a very disciplined and systematic hedging routine.”While he found a slight average-price decrease when hedging during normal times, Coffey said hedging can provide huge benefits when disaster hits the industry – such as has happened twice in the past year.In Fall 2019, a fire destroyed a packing plant owned by Tyson Fresh Meats in Holcomb, Kansas, which had a daily capacity of 6,000 head – or about 6% of the United States’ slaughter capacity.Coffey compared live cattle prices for 23 weeks, between July and October 2019 to see what impact hedging would have had on producers’ profits.“What I saw was the hedged price, on average, was about $10 per cwt higher,” he said. “If someone was marketing fed cattle week after week through that same time period, having those cattle hedged was worth an extra $10 per cwt higher.”Put another way, the average weekly value of gain for hedged cattle was $123 higher per head than for unhedged cattle.More recently, Coffey also looked at the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, comparing prices between February 2020 and the end of June. Again, hedging proved to be a successful strategy during crisis.“The hedged value of gain averaged about $221 per head higher,” Coffey said.“The take-home lesson from both of those instances,” he said, “is that hedging can protect from scenarios that can, frankly, end a business. Hedging protects against catastrophic losses.”Coffey’s full report, titled&nbsp;Hedging Kansas Live Cattle: A Summary of Outcomes over the Past 10 Years, is&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/">available online at Agmanager.info</a>.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Hedging cattle prices

There are many different reasons that producers look at adding different crops to their rotation. Weed control issues and the ability to spray certain chemicals to help with weeds is one reason. Also, some may be looking for a product that may be more profitable in the coming years. Some just want to try something new in their rotation to see if it fits their production model better than what they are currently doing. Whatever the reason, it’s a good idea to research the new possibilities before venturing out into the unknown.

On August 26th at 5:30 pm, KSRE Cottonwood District and Pawnee County will be hosting our regular woman’s group to discuss Alternative crops. Now, just because it originally was formed as a group of women that does not mean than men are not welcome. Anyone who has an interest is encouraged to attend. This program’s topic is going to be Alternative Crops. Lucas Hagg, Northwest area agronomist will be on our zoom to discuss the different crops you can grow instead of your normal rotation. Lucas will cover canola, cotton, sunflowers, hemp, dry beans, and forages in addition to any questions that you may have.&nbsp;

The program will be held over Zoom. You can contact Jen Webster from the Pawnee County Extension office at <a href="mailto:jlwebster@ksu.edu">jlwebster@ksu.edu</a> or by calling 620-285-6901 by 5 pm on August 26th for the zoom link.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are many different reasons that producers look at adding different crops to their rotation. Weed control issues and the ability to spray certain chemicals to help with weeds is one reason. Also, some may be looking for a product that may be more profitable in the coming years. Some just want to try something new in their rotation to see if it fits their production model better than what they are currently doing. Whatever the reason, it’s a good idea to research the new possibilities before venturing out into the unknown.On August 26th at 5:30 pm, KSRE Cottonwood District and Pawnee County will be hosting our regular woman’s group to discuss Alternative crops. Now, just because it originally was formed as a group of women that does not mean than men are not welcome. Anyone who has an interest is encouraged to attend. This program’s topic is going to be Alternative Crops. Lucas Hagg, Northwest area agronomist will be on our zoom to discuss the different crops you can grow instead of your normal rotation. Lucas will cover canola, cotton, sunflowers, hemp, dry beans, and forages in addition to any questions that you may have.&nbsp;The program will be held over Zoom. You can contact Jen Webster from the Pawnee County Extension office at <a href="mailto:jlwebster@ksu.edu">jlwebster@ksu.edu</a> or by calling 620-285-6901 by 5 pm on August 26th for the zoom link.&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Zoom session on alternative crops scheduled

	School is getting ready to start in some format, so kids from pre-school to graduate school will be adjusting to a new routine. But what about you? Are you a life-long learner? Moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas are never too old to learn something new. I don’t mean you have to enroll in a formal class, complete with a syllabus and a final exam. I’m talking about the many classes offered in our community through our Extension offices, 4-H and Youth programs, or recreation centers.

	I received word earlier this week that K-State Research &amp; Extension Administration has approved a protocol for offering the Stay Strong Stay Healthy program in our community. I am so excited to be able to offer this 8-week program at the Great Bend Activity Center beginning September 1st.&nbsp; The natural aging process offers challenges to many people. While we know from listening to the news and our personal experiences, staying active is a key component in maintaining or regaining health. But if you have noticed that your strength, flexibility or balance isn’t what it used to be you may want to consider signing up for Stay Strong, Stay Healthy.&nbsp; SSSH is designed to increase an aging adult’s access to a safe, structured, and effective strength training program. Over 8 weeks, participants learn exercises to improve their strength, flexibility, and balance. During each session, a prescribed set of 8 upper and lower body strengthening exercises are done along with warm-ups and cool-down stretches. Participants are made to feel comfortable regardless of their current fitness level so they can safely participate and gradually build the strength beneficial to health.

The 8-week program is set to begin Tuesday, September 1st and ends Thursday, October 22nd. It meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 am at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. The registration fee is $20 and may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office, 1800 12th Street, by August 25th. The class size is limited and we will pay close attention to disinfecting chairs that are used in the class. When you register we will schedule a time for a short pre-assessment to be completed.

Call me if you have any questions about the “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” workshop.&nbsp;

Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp; You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>	School is getting ready to start in some format, so kids from pre-school to graduate school will be adjusting to a new routine. But what about you? Are you a life-long learner? Moms and dads, grandmas and grandpas are never too old to learn something new. I don’t mean you have to enroll in a formal class, complete with a syllabus and a final exam. I’m talking about the many classes offered in our community through our Extension offices, 4-H and Youth programs, or recreation centers.	I received word earlier this week that K-State Research &amp; Extension Administration has approved a protocol for offering the Stay Strong Stay Healthy program in our community. I am so excited to be able to offer this 8-week program at the Great Bend Activity Center beginning September 1st.&nbsp; The natural aging process offers challenges to many people. While we know from listening to the news and our personal experiences, staying active is a key component in maintaining or regaining health. But if you have noticed that your strength, flexibility or balance isn’t what it used to be you may want to consider signing up for Stay Strong, Stay Healthy.&nbsp; SSSH is designed to increase an aging adult’s access to a safe, structured, and effective strength training program. Over 8 weeks, participants learn exercises to improve their strength, flexibility, and balance. During each session, a prescribed set of 8 upper and lower body strengthening exercises are done along with warm-ups and cool-down stretches. Participants are made to feel comfortable regardless of their current fitness level so they can safely participate and gradually build the strength beneficial to health.The 8-week program is set to begin Tuesday, September 1st and ends Thursday, October 22nd. It meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 – 11 am at the Great Bend Activity Center, 2715 18th Street. The registration fee is $20 and may be paid at the Cottonwood Extension District – Great Bend office, 1800 12th Street, by August 25th. The class size is limited and we will pay close attention to disinfecting chairs that are used in the class. When you register we will schedule a time for a short pre-assessment to be completed.Call me if you have any questions about the “Stay Strong, Stay Healthy” workshop.&nbsp;Donna Krug is the Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent and District Director for K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp; You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Kicking off new Stay Strong Stay Healthy program

By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension District

I have been getting some calls from farmers asking if their grain sorghum has sugarcane aphids in it? After going and looking I am glad to report that they are not sugarcane aphids. It is an aphid.

The corn leaf aphid,&nbsp;frequently infests sorghum at the whorl stage. This aphid ranges in color primarily from dark-green or bluish. Key identifying features are the dark legs and cornicles, relatively short antennae, and feeding on the upper leaf surfaces almost exclusively, preferring the upper parts of the plant.&nbsp;

Sugarcane aphids (SCA) on the other hand feed on the underside of leaves. They can be confused with other aphids especially when the aphids are young. They are pale yellow and have light colored legs with dark feet. They have dark colored, short cornicles (tail pipes) with no shading at the base of them as on the corn leaf aphid. &nbsp;

Both aphids do produce a sticky honeydew substance, for that matter any aphid or greenbug does, because they all have piercing-sucking mouth parts and are sucking the plant juices for nourishment. Corn leaf aphids do not have such a high reproductive rate as sugarcane aphids and therefore are not considered an economic treat to sorghum. Any aphid will attract beneficial species that will feed on them. The corn leaf aphid is rarely a cause for concern on sorghum unless larger numbers persist into heading and migrate up into about 50% or more of the heads to continue feeding.&nbsp;

Corn leaf aphids do attract beneficial insects, such as the lady beetle that will feed on them and currently I am seeing significant numbers of lady beetles and other aphid natural enemies that contribute to their control!&nbsp;

A good resource to have or refer to is the “Sorghum Insect Management Guide” by K-State Research &amp; Extension, it can be found on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or simply type into your internet browser - sorghum insect management guide, ksu.&nbsp;

If you have any questions, please give me a call or email me.&nbsp;

Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597164324186.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By STACY CAMPBELL Cottonwood Extension DistrictI have been getting some calls from farmers asking if their grain sorghum has sugarcane aphids in it? After going and looking I am glad to report that they are not sugarcane aphids. It is an aphid.The corn leaf aphid,&nbsp;frequently infests sorghum at the whorl stage. This aphid ranges in color primarily from dark-green or bluish. Key identifying features are the dark legs and cornicles, relatively short antennae, and feeding on the upper leaf surfaces almost exclusively, preferring the upper parts of the plant.&nbsp;Sugarcane aphids (SCA) on the other hand feed on the underside of leaves. They can be confused with other aphids especially when the aphids are young. They are pale yellow and have light colored legs with dark feet. They have dark colored, short cornicles (tail pipes) with no shading at the base of them as on the corn leaf aphid. &nbsp;Both aphids do produce a sticky honeydew substance, for that matter any aphid or greenbug does, because they all have piercing-sucking mouth parts and are sucking the plant juices for nourishment. Corn leaf aphids do not have such a high reproductive rate as sugarcane aphids and therefore are not considered an economic treat to sorghum. Any aphid will attract beneficial species that will feed on them. The corn leaf aphid is rarely a cause for concern on sorghum unless larger numbers persist into heading and migrate up into about 50% or more of the heads to continue feeding.&nbsp;Corn leaf aphids do attract beneficial insects, such as the lady beetle that will feed on them and currently I am seeing significant numbers of lady beetles and other aphid natural enemies that contribute to their control!&nbsp;A good resource to have or refer to is the “Sorghum Insect Management Guide” by K-State Research &amp; Extension, it can be found on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a> or simply type into your internet browser - sorghum insect management guide, ksu.&nbsp;If you have any questions, please give me a call or email me.&nbsp;Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact him by e-mail at scampbel@ksu.edu or calling 785-628-9430.

CAMPBELL: Corn leaf aphids in sorghum 

	When we turned the calendar to August it can mean only one thing; school bells will be ringing soon. The challenges that COVID19 has brought to our school boards and administrators are many, but in the end, children need to continue learning in whichever format is available. With the start of another school year, it is the perfect time to call a family meeting and get everyone on board with the new routine.

	Research shows that kids ages 3 to 6 need ten to twelve hours of sleep each day. As youngsters begin pre-school or the early grades it is important to have a set bedtime with a routine that encourages success. Perhaps you want to target 8 p.m. as bedtime. If so you will want to begin the wind down process around 7. Perhaps a warm bath and bed time story would help your child to relax. Planning what will be worn the next day or eaten for breakfast also encourages a less hectic morning when the alarm goes off. Whatever you want to adopt as a routine, now is a good time to start working toward your final goal. If the summer schedule has been lax, start moving the bedtime up a few minutes each day until your target is reached. That should help make the first day of school a success.

	As families strive to get the school year off to a good start, the morning rush can create a huge obstacle. Whether your kids catch an early morning bus, if you provide the ride, or if they bike or walk to school, make sure time is set aside to eat a healthy breakfast. It has long been reported that eating breakfast is a good thing – first by moms, and then backed up by numerous research studies. Nutrition educators have shown that eating breakfast is important to weight control. It also helps youngsters perform better in school.

	If you live close enough to school, perhaps your child can walk or bike safely to school. Research shows that starting your day with some physical activity (i.e. walking to school) encourages better concentration and behavior in the classroom. If your schedule allows it, do a trial run with your child; either walking or biking on a safe route to the front door of the school.&nbsp;

	Here’s hoping your school year gets off to a great start!

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>	When we turned the calendar to August it can mean only one thing; school bells will be ringing soon. The challenges that COVID19 has brought to our school boards and administrators are many, but in the end, children need to continue learning in whichever format is available. With the start of another school year, it is the perfect time to call a family meeting and get everyone on board with the new routine.	Research shows that kids ages 3 to 6 need ten to twelve hours of sleep each day. As youngsters begin pre-school or the early grades it is important to have a set bedtime with a routine that encourages success. Perhaps you want to target 8 p.m. as bedtime. If so you will want to begin the wind down process around 7. Perhaps a warm bath and bed time story would help your child to relax. Planning what will be worn the next day or eaten for breakfast also encourages a less hectic morning when the alarm goes off. Whatever you want to adopt as a routine, now is a good time to start working toward your final goal. If the summer schedule has been lax, start moving the bedtime up a few minutes each day until your target is reached. That should help make the first day of school a success.	As families strive to get the school year off to a good start, the morning rush can create a huge obstacle. Whether your kids catch an early morning bus, if you provide the ride, or if they bike or walk to school, make sure time is set aside to eat a healthy breakfast. It has long been reported that eating breakfast is a good thing – first by moms, and then backed up by numerous research studies. Nutrition educators have shown that eating breakfast is important to weight control. It also helps youngsters perform better in school.	If you live close enough to school, perhaps your child can walk or bike safely to school. Research shows that starting your day with some physical activity (i.e. walking to school) encourages better concentration and behavior in the classroom. If your schedule allows it, do a trial run with your child; either walking or biking on a safe route to the front door of the school.&nbsp;	Here’s hoping your school year gets off to a great start!Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Settling in to the school routine

When I am stressed, I can’t stop moving. I clean, do yardwork, exercise and take myself to exhaustion most days. When my son is anxious, he wakes up in the middle of the night and asks me to tuck him in again. When I notice he is waking up several nights in a row, I tend to be more attentive and spend extra time with him. I try to help him deal with his anxiety in positive ways such as exercise and just talking about it, but when I find myself unable to slow down, I usually ignore it until I can’t ignore it anymore.

2020 has been one for the history books when it comes to stress and uncertainty. There is very little in our lives that can be considered normal and that has taken a toll on our minds, bodies, and overall health. What can you do about all of this excess worry? Everyone handles anxiety in their own way. I show how our family is coping to illustrate that point. When I am stressed, I typically try to ignore it, soldier through, and hope it gets better. When I notice my son is getting stressed, I do everything in my power to help him handle it in a healthy way. Lately though, I am trying to do better for myself because I know how important mental health is in all aspects of our lives.

So how can we handle stress in a healthy manner? The single most important thing that you can do is self-care. I am sure that you have heard all of the adages, but you truly can’t pour from an empty pitcher. Find a way that you personally can relax and recharge. Take a walk, listen to music, meditate. Some may enjoy fishing, gardening, watching a movie, reading, the list goes on. Think to yourself, what do you like to do that you have not had enough time to do? In our current state of affairs, it is a good idea to make the time.

We also typically look out for others before ourselves. Right now, it is a good idea to check in on your friends. If someone you know is not acting like themselves, just asking them how they are doing can go a long way. Actively listening (listening to hear, and not listening to respond) is very important as it ensures that the person you are talking to is being heard. Although it is very hard to do sometimes, if you think someone may be suicidal, ask them out right. Studies show that talking about suicide does not make a person commit suicide. It does help them more that it doesn’t. Thought that conversation may be difficult, is much easier to have than a eulogy to deliver.&nbsp;

For more information about handling stress in a healthy way, Cottonwood Extension and K-State Research and Extension has some excellent resources available. You can always call 620-793-1910, or e-mail at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>. We are also blessed to have&nbsp; The Center for Counseling and Consultation where help is available locally.&nbsp; The national suicide prevention hotline is 800-273-8255 or you can text HOME to 741741 if you prefer. Dealing with our present situation can feel overwhelming, but help is out there. Reach out, talk. People need you. Now more than ever we need to take care of ourselves and each other.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>When I am stressed, I can’t stop moving. I clean, do yardwork, exercise and take myself to exhaustion most days. When my son is anxious, he wakes up in the middle of the night and asks me to tuck him in again. When I notice he is waking up several nights in a row, I tend to be more attentive and spend extra time with him. I try to help him deal with his anxiety in positive ways such as exercise and just talking about it, but when I find myself unable to slow down, I usually ignore it until I can’t ignore it anymore.2020 has been one for the history books when it comes to stress and uncertainty. There is very little in our lives that can be considered normal and that has taken a toll on our minds, bodies, and overall health. What can you do about all of this excess worry? Everyone handles anxiety in their own way. I show how our family is coping to illustrate that point. When I am stressed, I typically try to ignore it, soldier through, and hope it gets better. When I notice my son is getting stressed, I do everything in my power to help him handle it in a healthy way. Lately though, I am trying to do better for myself because I know how important mental health is in all aspects of our lives.So how can we handle stress in a healthy manner? The single most important thing that you can do is self-care. I am sure that you have heard all of the adages, but you truly can’t pour from an empty pitcher. Find a way that you personally can relax and recharge. Take a walk, listen to music, meditate. Some may enjoy fishing, gardening, watching a movie, reading, the list goes on. Think to yourself, what do you like to do that you have not had enough time to do? In our current state of affairs, it is a good idea to make the time.We also typically look out for others before ourselves. Right now, it is a good idea to check in on your friends. If someone you know is not acting like themselves, just asking them how they are doing can go a long way. Actively listening (listening to hear, and not listening to respond) is very important as it ensures that the person you are talking to is being heard. Although it is very hard to do sometimes, if you think someone may be suicidal, ask them out right. Studies show that talking about suicide does not make a person commit suicide. It does help them more that it doesn’t. Thought that conversation may be difficult, is much easier to have than a eulogy to deliver.&nbsp;For more information about handling stress in a healthy way, Cottonwood Extension and K-State Research and Extension has some excellent resources available. You can always call 620-793-1910, or e-mail at <a href="mailto:aboor@ksu.edu">aboor@ksu.edu</a>. We are also blessed to have&nbsp; The Center for Counseling and Consultation where help is available locally.&nbsp; The national suicide prevention hotline is 800-273-8255 or you can text HOME to 741741 if you prefer. Dealing with our present situation can feel overwhelming, but help is out there. Reach out, talk. People need you. Now more than ever we need to take care of ourselves and each other.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Dealing with stress

From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!

I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>From a health standpoint, vegetables are a five-star food group: naturally nutrient-rich; better tasting than a vitamin pill; low in calories and fat; cholesterol-free; and packed with disease-fighting phytonutrients. To maximize your health with vegetables, nutrition experts suggest at least three to five servings per day – in a rainbow of colors. All types of vegetables can be nourishing and delicious – fresh, frozen, canned, and juiced. Here are a dozen daily ways to treat yourself to good health!<ul>
 <li>Broccoli and cauliflower:&nbsp; Versatile and very healthful – eat them raw or cooked, in a salad, or even a slaw.</li><li>Carrots: Sweet, crunchy, good for your teeth, eyes and heart! Perfect raw or cooked in a stew.</li><li>Peppers: Green, red, yellow, orange, or even purple! Enjoy peppers in a salad, stir-fry=casserole, or as a snack.</li><li>Spinach: A salad of baby spinach leaves with pears, apples, or dried cranberries can turn anyone into a real spinach lover.</li><li>Onions: The zesty onion family, including scallions, leeks, and garlic too, offer some powerful antioxidant nutrients.</li><li>Peas: Fresh, frozen, or even canned, peas are a treat to eat – and they are very popular with young children.</li><li>Beets: If you have never liked beets, try them in a new way – like roasted, grilled or lightly steamed in the microwave.</li><li>Sweet potatoes or yams: Switch the color on your usual baked potato – and you will get a lot more nutrients, along with great taste.</li><li>Mushrooms: Just a mushroom or two adds rich flavor to a casserole, soup, stew, stir-fry, or even a tossed green salad.</li><li>Leaf and romaine lettuce: Rule of thumb for a healthy salad: the darker green or red the lettuce leaves, the more nutrients you get.</li><li>Green, yellow or purple beans: Like their pea “cousins” beans offer some fiber and a little bit of protein, along with vitamins and minerals.</li><li>Tomatoes: Cooking increases the availability of some tomato nutrients – so enjoy canned sauce, paste and chunks.</li>
 </ul>I hope you will consider joining me at the Thursday, Summer Street Stroll on August 3rd in Great Bend. I will have a booth set up with excellent Extension resources. I will also offer free canner gauge testing from 4 – 6 PM.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Delicious, easy ways to enjoy vegetables

Agricultural producers in Kansas and other states this year can participate in Kansas State University’s Risk &amp; Profit Conference from wherever they are as the university takes the entire conference online. The conference is set for Aug. 10-14.&nbsp;

From producers to processors to consumers, the new coronavirus has affected every aspect of life, so this year’s conference will focus on the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;

Different sessions are scheduled for each day, including the popular livestock and grain market outlooks. Sessions run from noon to 1:30 p.m. each day except Thursday, when an expanded schedule runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. That day also features an open chat at lunchtime with extension specialists. &nbsp;

Registration is available&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-conference">online</a> and questions can be directed to Rich Llewelyn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rvl@ksu.edu">rvl@ksu.edu</a>. &nbsp;The schedule for the program is:

Monday, August 10 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Hedging the Sale of Kansas Live Cattle: A Review of the Past 10 Years - Brian Coffey 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Ag Finance Situation - Allen Featherstone

Tuesday, August 11 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Macroeconomy, Interest Rates, and Future Inflation&nbsp; - Brian Briggeman 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 2 (12:45-1:30): US Agri-Food Trade and COVID-19 - Vincent Amanor-Boadu, Kara Ross, Catharine Ofori-Bah

Wednesday, August 12 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Crop Share or Cash Rent: How Does Risk Affect the Decision?-Mykel Taylor, Chelsea Arnold 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Assessment of Ag’s Contribution to the Kansas Economy - John Leatherman, Jody Wendt

Thursday, August 13 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 1 (10:30-11:15): Livestock Market Outlook—Glynn Tonsor 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (11:15-12:00): Grain Market Outlook—Dan O’Brien 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break/Lunch (12:00-12:30): Open Chat with K-State Agricultural Economics Extensions Specialists 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 3 (12:30-1:15): Nontraditional Finance: Overview and Trends - Jenny Ifft 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 4 (1:15-2:00): Projections of Net Farm Income for 2020 and 2021 - Gregg Ibendahl

Friday, August 14 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Economic Losses From ARC/PLC Election In 2014 Farm Bill - Nathan Hendricks, Mary Kurzweil 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): International Grain Market Trends and Factors&nbsp; - Guy Allen, Dan O’Brien

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>Agricultural producers in Kansas and other states this year can participate in Kansas State University’s Risk &amp; Profit Conference from wherever they are as the university takes the entire conference online. The conference is set for Aug. 10-14.&nbsp;From producers to processors to consumers, the new coronavirus has affected every aspect of life, so this year’s conference will focus on the economics of agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;Different sessions are scheduled for each day, including the popular livestock and grain market outlooks. Sessions run from noon to 1:30 p.m. each day except Thursday, when an expanded schedule runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. That day also features an open chat at lunchtime with extension specialists. &nbsp;Registration is available&nbsp;<a href="https://agmanager.info/events/risk-and-profit-conference">online</a> and questions can be directed to Rich Llewelyn at&nbsp;<a href="mailto:rvl@ksu.edu">rvl@ksu.edu</a>. &nbsp;The schedule for the program is:Monday, August 10 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Hedging the Sale of Kansas Live Cattle: A Review of the Past 10 Years - Brian Coffey 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Ag Finance Situation - Allen FeatherstoneTuesday, August 11 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Macroeconomy, Interest Rates, and Future Inflation&nbsp; - Brian Briggeman 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 2 (12:45-1:30): US Agri-Food Trade and COVID-19 - Vincent Amanor-Boadu, Kara Ross, Catharine Ofori-BahWednesday, August 12 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Crop Share or Cash Rent: How Does Risk Affect the Decision?-Mykel Taylor, Chelsea Arnold 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): Assessment of Ag’s Contribution to the Kansas Economy - John Leatherman, Jody WendtThursday, August 13 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Session 1 (10:30-11:15): Livestock Market Outlook—Glynn Tonsor 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (11:15-12:00): Grain Market Outlook—Dan O’Brien 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Break/Lunch (12:00-12:30): Open Chat with K-State Agricultural Economics Extensions Specialists 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 3 (12:30-1:15): Nontraditional Finance: Overview and Trends - Jenny Ifft 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 4 (1:15-2:00): Projections of Net Farm Income for 2020 and 2021 - Gregg IbendahlFriday, August 14 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 1 (12:00-12:45): Economic Losses From ARC/PLC Election In 2014 Farm Bill - Nathan Hendricks, Mary Kurzweil 
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Session 2 (12:45-1:30): International Grain Market Trends and Factors&nbsp; - Guy Allen, Dan O’BrienAlicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Conference will focus on effect of virus on ag economy

These large (1-1/3- to 1-5/8-inch long) wasps fly slowly above the ground. Cicada killers have a black body with yellow marks across the thorax and abdomen. Wings are reddish-orange.&nbsp;

Although these wasps are huge, they usually ignore people. Males may act aggressively if they are threatened, but are unable to sting. Females can sting, but are so passive that they rarely do. Even if they do sting, the pain is less than that of smaller wasps such as the yellow jacket or paper wasp and is similar to the sting of a sweat bee.&nbsp;

The cicada killer is a solitary wasp rather than a social wasp like the yellow jacket. The female nests in burrows in the ground. These burrows are quarter-size in diameter and can go 6 inches straight down and another 6 inches horizontally. Adults normally live 60 to 75 days from mid-July to mid-September and feed on flower nectar and sap. The adult female seeks cicadas on the trunks and lower limbs of trees. She stings her prey, flips it over, straddles it and carries it to her burrow. If she has a tree to climb, she will climb the tree so they can get airborne and fly with cicada back to the nest. If not, she will drag it. She will lay one egg per cicada if the egg is left unfertilized. Unfertilized eggs develop into males only. Fertilized eggs develop into females and are given at least two cicadas. Cicadas are then stuffed into the female’s burrow. Each burrow normally has three to four cells with one to two cicadas in each. However, it is possible for one burrow to have 10 to 20 cells.&nbsp;

Eggs hatch in two to three days, and larvae begin feeding on paralyzed cicadas. Feeding continues for four to 10 days until only the outer shell of the cicada remains. The larva overwinters inside a silken case. Pupation occurs in the spring. There is one generation per year. Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance. If you believe control is necessary, treat the burrows after dark to ensure the female wasps are in their nests. The males normally roost on plants near burrow sites. They can be captured with an insect net or knocked out of the air with a tennis racket during the day. &nbsp; Permethrin may be used for control.&nbsp; Products with permethrin include the following.

&nbsp; Eight Garden Dust - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Multipurpose Garden and Pet Dust - Green Thumb &nbsp; Garden, Pet &amp; Livestock Dust - Hi-Yield&nbsp;

&nbsp; 38 Plus Turf, Termite &amp; Ornamental Insect Spray - Hi-Yield&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Vegetable, Fruit &amp; Flower&nbsp; Conc. - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Yard &amp; Garden RTS - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Garden and Farm Insect Control- Hi-Yield

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1595861237756.png" alt="Cicada killer wasp. Photo courtesy of Kansas State University." />
 <figcaption>Cicada killer wasp. Photo courtesy of Kansas State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>These large (1-1/3- to 1-5/8-inch long) wasps fly slowly above the ground. Cicada killers have a black body with yellow marks across the thorax and abdomen. Wings are reddish-orange.&nbsp;Although these wasps are huge, they usually ignore people. Males may act aggressively if they are threatened, but are unable to sting. Females can sting, but are so passive that they rarely do. Even if they do sting, the pain is less than that of smaller wasps such as the yellow jacket or paper wasp and is similar to the sting of a sweat bee.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. " />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. </figcaption>
 </figure>The cicada killer is a solitary wasp rather than a social wasp like the yellow jacket. The female nests in burrows in the ground. These burrows are quarter-size in diameter and can go 6 inches straight down and another 6 inches horizontally. Adults normally live 60 to 75 days from mid-July to mid-September and feed on flower nectar and sap. The adult female seeks cicadas on the trunks and lower limbs of trees. She stings her prey, flips it over, straddles it and carries it to her burrow. If she has a tree to climb, she will climb the tree so they can get airborne and fly with cicada back to the nest. If not, she will drag it. She will lay one egg per cicada if the egg is left unfertilized. Unfertilized eggs develop into males only. Fertilized eggs develop into females and are given at least two cicadas. Cicadas are then stuffed into the female’s burrow. Each burrow normally has three to four cells with one to two cicadas in each. However, it is possible for one burrow to have 10 to 20 cells.&nbsp;Eggs hatch in two to three days, and larvae begin feeding on paralyzed cicadas. Feeding continues for four to 10 days until only the outer shell of the cicada remains. The larva overwinters inside a silken case. Pupation occurs in the spring. There is one generation per year. Cicada killers are not dangerous, but they can be a nuisance. If you believe control is necessary, treat the burrows after dark to ensure the female wasps are in their nests. The males normally roost on plants near burrow sites. They can be captured with an insect net or knocked out of the air with a tennis racket during the day. &nbsp; Permethrin may be used for control.&nbsp; Products with permethrin include the following.<h2>Dusts</h2>&nbsp; Eight Garden Dust - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Multipurpose Garden and Pet Dust - Green Thumb &nbsp; Garden, Pet &amp; Livestock Dust - Hi-Yield&nbsp;<h2>Liquids</h2>&nbsp; 38 Plus Turf, Termite &amp; Ornamental Insect Spray - Hi-Yield&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Vegetable, Fruit &amp; Flower&nbsp; Conc. - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Eight Yard &amp; Garden RTS - Bonide&nbsp; &nbsp; Garden and Farm Insect Control- Hi-YieldLauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Cicada killer wasps

There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.

When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.

“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.

It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.

More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.

“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”

The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.

While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:

“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”

The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.

For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.

Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.

“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”

Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”

“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>There are two sure-fire ways to avoid the pungent smell of a skunk: don’t get into areas where skunks may live, but if you do, for goodness sakes don’t get sprayed.When those two factors collide, humans and pets usually get the short end of the deal.“It’s certainly a better idea to prevent the problem than to try to deal with the after effects,” said Charlie Lee, a wildlife specialist with K-State Research and Extension.It is rare for a healthy skunk to bite a human. However, one that is exhibiting active signs of rabies – aggressiveness, seizures or stumbling, to name a few – may be more inclined to bite and could transmit the disease to humans or animals.More common, however, is that a skunk will try to chase away a predator or encroaching human by spraying a yellow-tinted, oily liquid – called a musk -- stored in two sacs near the anus of the animal.“Each sac has about a teaspoon of musk, which is enough for multiple sprays,” Lee said. “The musk is discharged through nipples that help skunks target those things they are trying to repel. Each nipple has its own musk sac, so a skunk can shoot with both barrels, and they can discharge the musk in a mist or a stream.”The musk cannot transmit the rabies virus, Lee said, but it can temporarily blind or stun individuals if they are sprayed in the face.While the health effects of being sprayed by a skunk are minimal, it is nonetheless unpleasant to rid hair, clothes and body of the bitter smell. Lee said the following mixture, discovered by chemist Paul Krebaum, has been shown to be effective:<ul>
 <li>1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide.</li><li>¼ cup of baking soda.</li><li>1 teaspoon of liquid determent.</li>
 </ul>“Mix those three ingredients in an open container and use it immediately,” he said. “Do not mix these ingredients in advance because when oxygen is released, the container can explode.”The mixture can be used on people and pets, but Lee cautioned users to avoid splashing it in the eyes or mouth. On pets, allow the mixture to sit for five minutes before rinsing.For inanimate objects – surfaces, decks, chairs and other outside objects – Lee suggested a mixture of 1 cup of liquid laundry bleach and 1 gallon of water. “Be aware that bleach may stain surfaces,” he said.Lee added that some of the effective commercial products available in many stores include Skunk-Off, Odormute, Fresh Wave, Epoleon N-100 and Neutroleum Alpha.“Neutroleum Alpha is one that has been used to control odor from skunks in a variety of settings,” Lee said. “It deodorizes by masking the odor with a different one that is described as minty or pleasant. You can use it directly on surfaces or it can be used as an air deodorizer by placing it on paper towels or napkins and then hanging them in the area.”Lee noted that one home remedy thought to work is probably not what folks think it is: “Tomato juice is not something I recommend,” he said. “It appears to be only marginally effective.”“There are a lot of products out there that will help consumers through a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Keep in mind that at times when humidity is high or it rains, the odor will appear to come back. In those times, simply re-apply the product.”Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Got skunked? Here's some tips

Nearly every day when I bike commute I see the garden beds behind Washington School in Great Bend. The Barton County Master Gardeners and school district employees must have green thumbs, because everything looks great.

If you are enjoying abundant garden produce and are thinking about preserving things to enjoy later, remember that K-State Research and Extension has some great resources related to food preservation. We are fortunate to have Karen Blakeslee, director of our Rapid Response Center at KSU just a phone call away with answers to specific food preservation questions. I believe her “Home Canning Mistakes article I saw in her monthly newsletter is worth sharing.&nbsp;

Many resources show canning methods that are not safe. Here are a few.

We have an excellent resource available at each of our Cottonwood District offices in Great Bend and Hays. So Easy to Preserve, is a canning guide researched and written by the University of Georgia Extension Service. I like the fact that it has a trouble-shooting guide to help determine what went wrong in the food preservation process. The book costs $15.00 and is well worth it.

One other service I want to call your attention to is that we can test the dial gauge from your canner lid. Dial gauges can be examined and checked for accuracy in a matter of minutes. It is a good idea to do this check up every couple of years. Give Berny or me a call at either of our district offices to arrange a time to have your gauge tested. I will also have the tester set up at the Great Bend Farmer’s Market on August 6th and September 3rd.&nbsp;

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1593016082485.png" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. " />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. </figcaption>
 </figure>Nearly every day when I bike commute I see the garden beds behind Washington School in Great Bend. The Barton County Master Gardeners and school district employees must have green thumbs, because everything looks great.If you are enjoying abundant garden produce and are thinking about preserving things to enjoy later, remember that K-State Research and Extension has some great resources related to food preservation. We are fortunate to have Karen Blakeslee, director of our Rapid Response Center at KSU just a phone call away with answers to specific food preservation questions. I believe her “Home Canning Mistakes article I saw in her monthly newsletter is worth sharing.&nbsp;Many resources show canning methods that are not safe. Here are a few.<ul>
 <li>Canning in the oven – Canning jars may not withstand the thermal shock and can break. Also, oven heating filled jars of food is slow and can encourage potential bacteria growth.</li><li>Open kettle canning – This is filling jars and closing them without further heat processing. This also includes inverting jars or setting the jars in the sun. Without water bath canning or pressure canning, spoilage will likely occur and food will be lost or people may become sick.</li><li>Electric multi-cookers – While some electric multi-cookers have a “canning” button but no research is available to back up this function. Use these appliances for cooking only!</li><li>The jar sealed, it has to be safe! – What happened prior to putting a lid on the jar is critical to canned food safety. Just because a jar seals does not guarantee safety.</li>
 </ul>We have an excellent resource available at each of our Cottonwood District offices in Great Bend and Hays. So Easy to Preserve, is a canning guide researched and written by the University of Georgia Extension Service. I like the fact that it has a trouble-shooting guide to help determine what went wrong in the food preservation process. The book costs $15.00 and is well worth it.One other service I want to call your attention to is that we can test the dial gauge from your canner lid. Dial gauges can be examined and checked for accuracy in a matter of minutes. It is a good idea to do this check up every couple of years. Give Berny or me a call at either of our district offices to arrange a time to have your gauge tested. I will also have the tester set up at the Great Bend Farmer’s Market on August 6th and September 3rd.&nbsp;Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research &amp; Extension – Cottonwood District. You may reach her at (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

KRUG: Avoid home canning mistakes

If you have spent any time outdoors walking around, you may have noticed a very distinct, grotesque looking insect on trees, shrubs, or near homes. The insect is the wheel bug (Arilus cristatus), which is common, and widely distributed throughout Kansas. 

Wheel bugs, also called assassin bugs, are predators that feed on many insect pests. However, the nymphs and adult can inflict a painful bite if handled by humans. Adult wheel bugs are 1 to 1-1/4 inches long, robust with long legs and antennae, and have a stout beak and large eyes on a narrow head. They are dark-brown to gray and possess a wheel or crest with 8 to 12 protruding teeth-like structures (tubercles) on the thorax that resembles a cogwheel; similar to the dinosaur—Stegosaurus. 

Wheel bugs have two long, slender antennae that are constantly moving or weaving around. Females are typically larger than males. Females lay eggs that resemble miniature brown bottles with white stoppers. Eggs are laid in clusters of 40 to 200. The eggs are glued together and covered with a gummy cement, which protects eggs from weather extremes and natural enemies (e.g. parasitoids and predators). Egg clusters are located on leaves, or the trunk or branches of trees or shrubs. Nymphs hatch (eclose) from eggs and are bright red with black markings. The nymphs do not have the wheel or crest. The life cycle, from egg to adult, takes three to four months to complete. Wheel bugs are active day and night, and are very shy, tending to hide on leaf undersides. The wheel bug overwinters as eggs with one generation per year in Kansas. Wheel bugs are voracious predators feeding on a wide-variety of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, true bugs, sawflies, and aphids.

Unfortunately, wheel bugs will feed on beneficial insects such as ladybird beetles and honey bees. The mouthparts are red-brown and resemble a tube or straw that is located underneath the head. The mouthpart extends out when wheel bugs are ready to “stab” prey. Wheel bugs paralyze prey with their saliva that contains a toxic substance, which immobilizes prey within 30 seconds. In addition to feeding on insects, wheel bugs are cannibalistic, and will feed on each other if they cannot locate a food source (prey). What is there not to like about “bugs?”&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>If you have spent any time outdoors walking around, you may have noticed a very distinct, grotesque looking insect on trees, shrubs, or near homes. The insect is the wheel bug (Arilus cristatus), which is common, and widely distributed throughout Kansas. Wheel bugs, also called assassin bugs, are predators that feed on many insect pests. However, the nymphs and adult can inflict a painful bite if handled by humans. Adult wheel bugs are 1 to 1-1/4 inches long, robust with long legs and antennae, and have a stout beak and large eyes on a narrow head. They are dark-brown to gray and possess a wheel or crest with 8 to 12 protruding teeth-like structures (tubercles) on the thorax that resembles a cogwheel; similar to the dinosaur—Stegosaurus. Wheel bugs have two long, slender antennae that are constantly moving or weaving around. Females are typically larger than males. Females lay eggs that resemble miniature brown bottles with white stoppers. Eggs are laid in clusters of 40 to 200. The eggs are glued together and covered with a gummy cement, which protects eggs from weather extremes and natural enemies (e.g. parasitoids and predators). Egg clusters are located on leaves, or the trunk or branches of trees or shrubs. Nymphs hatch (eclose) from eggs and are bright red with black markings. The nymphs do not have the wheel or crest. The life cycle, from egg to adult, takes three to four months to complete. Wheel bugs are active day and night, and are very shy, tending to hide on leaf undersides. The wheel bug overwinters as eggs with one generation per year in Kansas. Wheel bugs are voracious predators feeding on a wide-variety of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, true bugs, sawflies, and aphids.Unfortunately, wheel bugs will feed on beneficial insects such as ladybird beetles and honey bees. The mouthparts are red-brown and resemble a tube or straw that is located underneath the head. The mouthpart extends out when wheel bugs are ready to “stab” prey. Wheel bugs paralyze prey with their saliva that contains a toxic substance, which immobilizes prey within 30 seconds. In addition to feeding on insects, wheel bugs are cannibalistic, and will feed on each other if they cannot locate a food source (prey). What is there not to like about “bugs?”&nbsp;Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: A closer look at the wheel bug

I guess you could say “The Heat is on!”&nbsp; But after all it is July and County Fairs are in full swing, so what else could we expect?&nbsp; As we look ahead to a forecast of triple digit heat it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of staying hydrated. A good rule of thumb for the amount of water you need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances and more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise. So for an example, a 150-pound individual should have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat wave. Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly 90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes waste; and regulates body temperature.

Exposure to the sun or getting sunburned will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can be life threatening. It is a good idea to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to get medical help right away if you suspect a heat stroke.

Cool water is recommended for the majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods also have a high water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies, puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting them with water in order to reduce sugar consumption.&nbsp;

The bottom line on staying hydrated is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability to sense thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and before, during and after play.

Let’s hope that the heat breaks soon before the 2020 summer goes into the record books.

Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. She may be reached at (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578680101176.jpeg" alt="onna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension" />
 <figcaption>onna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>I guess you could say “The Heat is on!”&nbsp; But after all it is July and County Fairs are in full swing, so what else could we expect?&nbsp; As we look ahead to a forecast of triple digit heat it seems like the perfect time to remind everyone about the importance of staying hydrated. A good rule of thumb for the amount of water you need is to divide your body weight by two. The resulting number is the number of ounces of water you should be drinking under normal circumstances and more is needed as summer temperatures and humidity rise. So for an example, a 150-pound individual should have at least 75 ounces, but more during this heat wave. Sometimes we forget that 55-75 percent of our body’s weight is water; the brain is 70 percent water; blood is 82 percent water, and the lungs are nearly 90 percent water. Water is also responsible for carrying nutrients and oxygen to cells; cushions organs, tissue, bones and joints; removes waste; and regulates body temperature.Exposure to the sun or getting sunburned will speed fluid loss, and so will drinking beverages containing caffeine or alcohol, which both act as diuretics. Fluid replacement is essential, but it is best to not wait until you are thirsty. Excessive water loss or dehydration can impair body function and lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke and can be life threatening. It is a good idea to become familiar with the signs of heat exhaustion. They include: dizziness, weakness, feeling thirsty, uncoordinated or nauseated. Most people sweat a lot during heat exhaustion. The signs of a heat stroke are different. They include: a body temperature of 104 or above, confusion, staggering, possible fainting, either a rapid pulse or a slow weak pulse, and not sweating, despite the heat. It is important to get medical help right away if you suspect a heat stroke.Cool water is recommended for the majority of fluid replacement because it is easily absorbed. Many foods also have a high water content and should be included in a healthy summer diet. Melons and most other fruits, along with tomatoes, vegetables, soups, smoothies, puddings and gelatin salads should not be overlooked. Sports beverages may be helpful for athletes who are exercising more than one hour and are in need of electrolytes and quick energy, but consider diluting them with water in order to reduce sugar consumption.&nbsp;The bottom line on staying hydrated is to drink fluids before you become thirsty. As we age our ability to sense thirst declines, leaving older people unable to rely on their thirst to prompt them to drink enough fluids. Infants and small children also need to be monitored closely to assure that dehydration does not occur. Little ones lose more fluids because they have a greater proportion of skin surface in relation to their size. Offer water frequently, each time a child passes through the kitchen and before, during and after play.Let’s hope that the heat breaks soon before the 2020 summer goes into the record books.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent with K-State Research and Extension – Cottonwood District. She may be reached at (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

KRUG: Tips on managing heat, humidity safely

During the summer grazing months many producers run into issues with lame cattle. The effects of lameness may show itself by decreased fertility, weight loss, decreased performance, and increased labor and medicine costs. It has been estimated that 88-92% of lameness in cattle stems from the foot. Several issues could be the culprit, but we will review some of the common causes and the key differences between the clinical signs. It is a good idea to contact your local veterinarian to create a treatment plan for these conditions prior to the grazing season.

The first way to determining the cause of lameness is to observe obvious swelling. The swelling most commonly effects the lower limb, indicating the area of inflammation just above the hoof. It is important to distinguish if the swelling is symmetrical (equal on both sides of the foot), or asymmetrical (only effecting one side). Swelling may also be noticed effecting single or multiple joints in both calves and cows.

Footrot is a common disease process that occurs in pasture cattle. Footrot is a bacterial infection of the foot that manifests itself with symmetric swelling encompassing the lower limb just above the hooves. Upon closer inspection, producers will notice a crack in the skin between the hooves and a foul pungent odor. Injectable antibiotic treatment is typically very rewarding when treated in the early stages of the disease. With delayed or late treatment of cases, however, deeper structures of the foot (tendons, joints, even bone) may become involved. Delayed treatment often requires extended therapy, and leads to increased cull rates from the herd.

It is always important to closely inspect symmetric swelling cases in the pasture settings. Wire, bale wrap, or other foreign bodies can wrap around and entrap the lower foot causing very similar symptoms as footrot. If the swelling has a well demarcated line horizontally across the foot, further investigation in warranted. The entrapping foreign body must be removed.

Single sided or asymmetric swelling of the foot often indicates a more serious condition in cattle. This type of clinical sign is often the result of deep structure issues. Puncture wounds, sole abscesses, or chronic infections can cause single sided joint, bone, or tendon infections. Extensive footwork on a tilt table or under sedation is often indicated in these cases. Contact your veterinarian when these cases are identified.

Single or multiple joint swelling with lameness can also be observed in pasture settings. In calves this is often the result of septic arthritis. This is a bacterial infection of the joints. In very young calves it can be the sequela of naval ill, or from bacteria that get into the blood stream. It is not uncommon to see this condition a week to 10 days following a bout of respiratory disease with some pathogens as well. Even with appropriate treatment, the inflammation in the joint often takes several weeks to resorb back into the body. Joint swelling in mature animals can also occur. Many times this is a result of an orthopedic break down. Torn cruciate ligaments in the stifles of breeding bulls, or hock damage from riding activity are examples of these conditions. Consult with your veterinarian for potential treatment or course of action if these situations occur.

Obvious lameness to one or more limbs with no noticeable swelling can often be challenging to diagnose appropriately. One of these conditions is called Hairy Heel Warts, also known as Digital Dermatitis, or Strawberry Footrot. These animals often display obvious lameness and will attempt to walk on the “tippy toe” of the foot. Upon closer observation you will notice wart like growths or bright red scab lesions below the dewclaws and above the heel bulbs of the foot. Topical treatment with an astringent or antibacterial solution is warranted for this condition.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592579538317.png" alt="Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the summer grazing months many producers run into issues with lame cattle. The effects of lameness may show itself by decreased fertility, weight loss, decreased performance, and increased labor and medicine costs. It has been estimated that 88-92% of lameness in cattle stems from the foot. Several issues could be the culprit, but we will review some of the common causes and the key differences between the clinical signs. It is a good idea to contact your local veterinarian to create a treatment plan for these conditions prior to the grazing season.Lameness with Swelling:The first way to determining the cause of lameness is to observe obvious swelling. The swelling most commonly effects the lower limb, indicating the area of inflammation just above the hoof. It is important to distinguish if the swelling is symmetrical (equal on both sides of the foot), or asymmetrical (only effecting one side). Swelling may also be noticed effecting single or multiple joints in both calves and cows.Footrot is a common disease process that occurs in pasture cattle. Footrot is a bacterial infection of the foot that manifests itself with symmetric swelling encompassing the lower limb just above the hooves. Upon closer inspection, producers will notice a crack in the skin between the hooves and a foul pungent odor. Injectable antibiotic treatment is typically very rewarding when treated in the early stages of the disease. With delayed or late treatment of cases, however, deeper structures of the foot (tendons, joints, even bone) may become involved. Delayed treatment often requires extended therapy, and leads to increased cull rates from the herd.It is always important to closely inspect symmetric swelling cases in the pasture settings. Wire, bale wrap, or other foreign bodies can wrap around and entrap the lower foot causing very similar symptoms as footrot. If the swelling has a well demarcated line horizontally across the foot, further investigation in warranted. The entrapping foreign body must be removed.Single sided or asymmetric swelling of the foot often indicates a more serious condition in cattle. This type of clinical sign is often the result of deep structure issues. Puncture wounds, sole abscesses, or chronic infections can cause single sided joint, bone, or tendon infections. Extensive footwork on a tilt table or under sedation is often indicated in these cases. Contact your veterinarian when these cases are identified.Single or multiple joint swelling with lameness can also be observed in pasture settings. In calves this is often the result of septic arthritis. This is a bacterial infection of the joints. In very young calves it can be the sequela of naval ill, or from bacteria that get into the blood stream. It is not uncommon to see this condition a week to 10 days following a bout of respiratory disease with some pathogens as well. Even with appropriate treatment, the inflammation in the joint often takes several weeks to resorb back into the body. Joint swelling in mature animals can also occur. Many times this is a result of an orthopedic break down. Torn cruciate ligaments in the stifles of breeding bulls, or hock damage from riding activity are examples of these conditions. Consult with your veterinarian for potential treatment or course of action if these situations occur.Lameness with no noticeable swelling:Obvious lameness to one or more limbs with no noticeable swelling can often be challenging to diagnose appropriately. One of these conditions is called Hairy Heel Warts, also known as Digital Dermatitis, or Strawberry Footrot. These animals often display obvious lameness and will attempt to walk on the “tippy toe” of the foot. Upon closer observation you will notice wart like growths or bright red scab lesions below the dewclaws and above the heel bulbs of the foot. Topical treatment with an astringent or antibacterial solution is warranted for this condition.The last condition we see more commonly in newly arrived stocker calves, is called toe tip necrosis (toe abscesses). These animals often appear with shifting lameness of the back legs. They will usually stand in strange orientations to protect and get pressure off the of the damaged toe. The rear, outside hooves are most often affected. Treatment of these consists of picking up the feet and using hoof testers to confirm the condition. Then the toes are slightly opened with hoof nippers to release the pressure. Without opening the toes, healing will not occur.Lameness can be challenging to diagnose in a field situation, but understanding the subtle differences will help will proper and timely treatment. Visit with your veterinarian about any non-responsive lameness issues. Further diagnostics and treatment may be indicated.Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.