Farm and Ranch

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for March 10th, 2010
3/11/2010
There were 2,667 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the March 10th sale. That compares to 2,805 a week ago and 1,565 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 2.00 to 4.00 higher, over 500lbs were 3.00-5.00 higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 3.00 to 5.00 higher, over 500lbs were steady to 2.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 50.00 higher. Trade was good; demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for March 3rd, 2010
3/4/2010
There were 2,805 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the March 3rd sale. That compares to 1,144 a week ago and 2,611 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 2.00-5.00 higher, over 500lbs steady to 2.00 higher, and feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 higher, while over 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady, and replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to firm. Trade was good; demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for February 24th, 2010
2/25/2010
There were 1,144 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the February 24th sale. That compares to 2,583 a week ago and 2,413 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were steady, over 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 lower. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were steady, while over 500lbs were 1.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-4.00 lower. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 50.00 lower. Trade was good, demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for February 17th, 2010
2/18/2010
There were 2,582 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the February 17th sale. That compares to 445 a week ago and 2,502 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 6.00-10.00 higher, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were 6.00-10.00 higher, and over 500lbs were 4.00-6.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 3.00-5.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 150.00 higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for February 10th, 2010
2/11/2010
There were 445 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the February 10th sale. That compares to 998 a week ago and 2,222 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers and heifers were steady to light test due to the wet conditions. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were not enough to test. Trade light; demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for February 3rd, 2010
2/4/2010
There were 998 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the February 3rd sale. That compares to 3,020 a week ago and 2,950 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs steady to steady, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 lower, and over 500lbs were steady to 1.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-3.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady on light test. Trade light. Demand good due to wet weather. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for January 27th, 2010
1/28/2010
There were 3,020 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the January 27th sale. That compares to 3,396 a week ago and 1,591 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs steady to 2.00 higher, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 lower, and over 500lbs were steady to 2.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were stead to firm. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were stead. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for January 20th, 2010
1/21/2010
There were 3,396 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the January 20th sale. That compares to 3,790 a week ago and 3,093 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-3.00 higher, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 lower, and over 500lbs were 3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-3.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 50.00 higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for January 13th, 2010
1/14/2010
There were 3,790 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the January 13th sale. That compares to 2,491 a week ago and 4,146 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 1.00-3.00 higher, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were 3.00-6.00 higher, and over 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-5.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to firm. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for January 6th, 2010
1/7/2010
There were 2,491 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the January 6th sale. That compares to none a week ago (off for the holidays) and 2,688 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-4.00 higher, whereas feeder heifers under 500lbs were steady to firm, and over 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-3.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 lower. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for December 16th, 2009
12/17/2009
There were 2,198 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the December 16th sale. That compares to 3,395 a week ago and 1,190 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-3.00 higher, over 500lbs steady to firm. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 higher, over 500lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for December 9th, 2009
12/10/2009
There were 3,395 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the December 9th sale. That compares to 1,116 a week ago and 1,951 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-4.00 lower, over 500lbs steady to 1.00 lower. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 3.00-6.00 lower, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-4.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for December 2nd, 2009
12/3/2009
There were 1,116 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the December 2nd sale. That compares to 0 a week ago and 2,534 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-4.00 higher, over 500lbs steady to firm. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were steady to firm, over 500lbs were steady. Slaughter cows and bulls were 3.00-5.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 lower. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

2010 Coleman County Livestock Show planning meeting November 30th
11/23/2009
A planning meeting for the 2010 Coleman County Livestock Show will be held on Monday, November 30th at 6:00 pm at the Bill Franklin Center in Coleman. Final plans will be discussed. All interested persons are encouraged to attend. For more information, contact Sarah Beal, stockshow chairman at 325-785-4291.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for November 18th , 2009
11/19/2009
There were 2,974 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the November 18th sale. That compares to 2,930 a week ago and 3,101 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs 2.00-3.00 higher, over 500lbs 2.00-3.00 were higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were steady to 4.00 higher, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 5.00 higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for November 11th , 2009
11/12/2009
There were 2,930 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the November 11th sale. That compares to 1,365 a week ago and 1,935 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were steady to firm, over 500lbs 1.00-3.00 were higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 higher, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-5.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to firm. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

USDA Rural Development
11/2/2009
Rural Energy for America Program

The Section 9007 Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) through USDA Rural Development offers competitive grant, guaranteed loans and combination grant/guaranteed loans to help agricultural producers and rural small businesses purchase and install renewable energy systems and make energy efficiency improvements in rural areas.

Renewable Energy and energy efficiency systems provide a significant opportunity for rural economic development and growth. Renewable energy is energy derived from wind, solar, biomass, or geothermal source; or hydrogen derived from biomass or water using wind, solar, biomass or geothermal energy sources.

Energy efficiency improvements are a tool for increasing farm or business productivity while reducing costs. Projects may include retrofitting lighting or insulation, or purchasing or replacing equipment with more efficient units in existing facilities or new replacement facilities. Some examples of energy efficiency projects include: grain dryer replacement, irrigation systems, poultry house improvements, and dairies. The program may not be used for residential purposes.

Information about all of our energy programs and application resources can be found under the “Energy” tab at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/tx/bp.htm

For additional information contact USDA Rural Development in Abilene at:
4400 Buffalo Gap Rd, Suite 4150
Abilene, TX 79606
Phone: 325-690-6162 ext 4
Or email: Larry.Clements@tx.usda.gov

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for October 21, 2009
10/22/2009
There were 2,763 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the October 14th sale. That compares to 1,365 a week ago and 1,935 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 higher, over 500lbs 1.00-2.00 were higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 higher, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs 1were steady to firm. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Texas Milk Production Increased 5 Percent From Last Year . . .
10/21/2009
AUSTIN . . . . Texas milk production totaled 691 million pounds during September, up 5 percent from last year’s production of 659 million pounds. August 2009 production totaled 706 million pounds. The number of milk cows during September averaged 416,000 head, down 9,000 head from last year and down 4,000 head from August 2009.
Production per cow averaged 1,660 pounds during September, 110 pounds more than last year.
Milk production in the 23 states participating in the monthly survey totaled 13.9 billion pounds, down 0.7 percent from production in these same states in September 2008. August revised production, at 14.6 billion pounds, was down 0.1 percent from August 2008.
Production per cow during September averaged 1,672 pounds, up 22 pounds from a year ago. The average number of milk cows in the 23 states was 8.34 million head, 168,000 head less than last year and 32,000 head less than August 2009.

Cattle Prices to Ride The Recovery Upward
10/21/2009
Ride the recovery may be the theme for the cattle industry in coming months. That, of course, is the economic recovery that is thought to be underway. A host of economic indicators suggest that the recession has ended and the economy has more positive signs than negative. This is true for the U.S. and the world economy.
Unfortunately the beef industry also rode the recession downward. So far this year, through the month of September, beef production has been down by five percent but finished cattle prices have been almost $11 lower than in the same period last year. Nebraska finished steers averaged $93.60 per live hundredweight in the January to September period in 2008. This year those values dropped to $82.75. Steer calf values have also been about $11 per hundredweight lower and feeder cattle about $9 lower.
Beef and cattle prices move downward with recession and upward with recovery. They are generally more directly impacted by changes in economic prospects than pork or poultry markets. The indicators of recovery are beginning to become more numerous in such data as the rise in the average length of work week, rising building permits, falling numbers of new claims for unemployment, and of course the rising stock market. The recovery is expected to be slow by historic standards with unemployment remaining high into 2010. However, the unemployment rate is a lagging indicator and not the one to use as the measure of recovery.
Inflationary investing may be another reason cattle are underpriced. In the past six weeks there has been a resurgence of inflationary buying in futures markets. This has also been related to the continued weakening of the U.S. dollar where the lead futures contract has been down five percent since September 1. Since that date, the lead futures contracts for various commodities have been shooting upward: corn up 19 percent, copper and gold five to ten percent higher, and crude oil up 14 percent. In contrast, the lead contract for live cattle futures has been down about two percent. This may well mean that cattle are cheap relative to other commodities.
The fundamentals are positive for beef as well. Production will continue to drop as both export and domestic demand improve with the recovery. USDA expects exports to increase by three percent over the next 12 months. Given that the rest of the world may recover more quickly than the U.S. with the dollar to stay weak, exports could do even better. Per capita available supplies in the U.S. will decline by two percent over the coming 12 months and competitive supplies of pork per person will be down five percent.
While more cattle have moved into feedlots in recent months, the overall indicators suggest that the breeding herd will continue to drop in the January 2010 inventory report. Cheaper corn, meal, and feed ingredients late this summer did cause a larger number of lighter weight calves to move into feedlots. In August and September, placements of cattle weighing under 700 pounds were up eight percent while those over 700 pounds were up one percent. With corn and feed prices moving upward in recent weeks, it is likely that placements in October will slow once again. Perhaps more importantly was that the number of heifers in feedlots on October 1 was up four percent, indicating a relatively low rate of heifer retention to go back into breeding herds. This supports a one to two percent drop in beef cow herd numbers in the January 2010 inventory.
Cattle prices are expected to generally move upward over the coming year. Nebraska finished steers are expected to rise from the current low $80s to the middle $80s by the end of the year. The general pattern to higher prices is expected to continue in the first quarter with prices in the mid-to-higher $80s. Early spring daily highs could move into the very low $90s or higher depending on the strength of the economic recovery. Summer prices normally are a few dollars lower, but that may not occur in the summer of 2010 as prices could stay in the low to mid $90s.
In 2008 Nebraska choice steers averaged $92, fell to about $83 with the recession this year and are expected to climb back to the low $90s with the recovery in 2010. So the theme for the beef industry in the coming year is ride the recovery. What are the threats? The clearest threat is that the economic recovery will be anemic, or that there is a second recessionary dip.
Assuming the industry is able to ride the recovery, the implications are fairly clear. Stay long cattle at least for now. This means retaining ownership of calves for a longer period, considering feeding out calves rather than selling them this fall, and for feedlot cattle, waiting a bit to forward price the finished cattle in order to give inflation investors a little time to locate the cattle futures trading pit.
Source: Chris Hurt, Extension Economist, Purdue University

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for October 14, 2009
10/20/2009
There were 1,365 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the October 14th sale. That compares to 1,987 a week ago and 1,103 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Stocker steers and heifer 500 lbs and under were steady, 500 lbs and up 205 higher, packers 2.00 higher, and stocker cows and pairs steady. #1 Pairs 900.00 to 1050.00, med. pairs 700.00 to 800.00, and aged 550.00 to 650.00. #1 Cows 750.00 to 850.00, med. 600.00 to 650.00, and aged 400.00 to 600.00.

Ag Summary and Livestock, Range and Pasture Report
10/14/2009
Agricultural Summary: Scattered showers were observed across much of the state. The northeast part of the state received the most rain with up to 2 to 6 inches in isolated areas. Winter wheat planting continued producers sprayed defoliant on cotton, and corn and soybean harvest was active in the Northern High Plains. Recent rainfall and cooler temperatures improved wheat conditions in the Northern Plains. Army worms caused wheat to suffer in the Blacklands. Wheat and oats were emerging in South Texas. High winds and large hail damaged cotton in parts of the Southern High Plains. In the Trans-Pecos, Pawnee pecan cultivar harvest was active and the Western pecan was in the final stage of maturity. Soybeans continued to progress well in the Upper Coast while pods were filling. Supplemental feeding of livestock took place in localized areas of the state. Range and pastures continued to improve due to the recent rainfall across most of the state. Top soil moisture was mostly adequate to surplus across the state.
Supplemental feeding of livestock took place in localized areas of the state but continued to decline due to improved pasture conditions in the southern part of the state. Stock tank levels in some areas of the state continued to be replenished; however, more rainfall was needed to return tanks to adequate levels. Some hay was still being cut and baled in localized areas of the state. Army worms continued to cause damage to hay meadows and pastures across most of the state. Range and pastures continued to improve due to the recent rainfall across most of the state. Range and pasture condition was mostly fair to good statewide.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for October 7, 2009
10/8/2009
There were 1,987 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the October 7th sale. That compares to 2,603 a week ago and 1,779 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 11.00-6.00 lower, over 500lbs 1.00 were higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 2.00-3.00, over 500lbs were steady to 2.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady to 2.00 lower. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs 100.00 were higher. Trade good. Demand good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

Study reveals Texas cotton producers should apply less fertilizer in certain cases
By: Blair Fannin
COLLEGE STATION--Texas cotton producers may be using too much of a good thing when it comes to fertilizer.
A three-year study by Texas AgriLife Research found producers should test soil nitrate levels to a depth of at least 18 inches or more rather than a previously recommended 6 inches.
The new recommendation comes after research revealed high levels of nitrogen found in deeper soil depths. Researchers also found cotton is able to utilize these nutrients throughout the growing season. The findings could lead to more than $50 million in savings for Texas farmers and reduce the threat of leaching to groundwater.
That doesn't include other costs such as extra spraying for insects, defoliation, harvesting and other expenditures associated with rank or excessive growth, said Dr. Frank Hons, an AgriLife Research scientist who led a study team.
The research, funded by Cotton Inc., took place at the Texas AgriLife Research Farm in the Brazos bottom region of Burleson County. The fertilizer was applied at various depths down to 42 inches using a hydraulic soil probe in micro plots measuring 4 feet long by about 7 feet wide.
We would take a core sample every 8 inches of the two rows of the micro plot, Hons said. We would take a core sample down to the appropriate depth, then take N-15 (nitrogen used frequently in agricultural research) solution liquid and inject at that depth and refill the hole. The N-15 allowed us to distinguish fertilizer uptake as compared to nitrogen already present in the soil.
Researchers would examine the different growth stages of the cotton through the season, analyzing dry matter partitioning, plant height and other aspects.
Then we came back and harvested plants, dried them and ground them up so that we could analyze for total N and N-15 concentrations in the plants, he said.
They found during the first sampling, which was at mid-bloom, that cotton plants were taking up nitrogen to a depth of at least 24 inches. Another sampling was taken close to harvest around mid-July.
We found cotton plants were able to use available nitrogen down to at least 42 inches, Hons said.
Common cotton varieties were used as part of the field studies, Hons said. The data indicates a cotton farmer may need only 40 to 45 pounds of nitrogen per bale instead of the 50 pounds recommended in the past.
The thing that surprised me the most (about the findings) was how rapidly cotton could remove nitrogen from deeper depths of the soil, Hons said. This and associated studies indicate that in certain instances we may have been over-fertilizing portions of Texas cotton, adding more fertilizer than the plant actually needs.
And there has already been positive feedback from producers, who experienced record-high fertilizer costs in 2007 and 2008 as part of the energy crisis in the U.S. What I've heard overall is that the research has been well-received, Hons said. Farmers see it as an opportunity to cut their costs and improve their bottom line.

COMMISSIONER STAPLES URGES PRODUCERS IN NEED OF HAY
TO UTILIZE HAY HOTLINE
10/8/2009
AUSTIN – Despite some substantial rain across parts of the state, many Texas ranchers continue to struggle to feed livestock due to the lingering drought that has cost the state’s agriculture industry approximately $3.6 billion in losses.
“The drought has done more than dry up our land and evaporate our reservoirs; it also has destroyed thousands of acres of hay resources for producers who raise cattle, goats and horses,” Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples said. “The drought has indeed left its mark, and unfortunately, we cannot change the fact that many ranchers were forced to reduce or sell off herds and, in some cases, even close operations. We aim to connect those who need hay with hay producers across the state and nation to help alleviate the hardship.”
Commissioner Staples is encouraging Texas livestock producers to go to the Texas Department of Agriculture’s Hay Hotline Web site at www.TexasAgriculture.gov. The site currently lists more than 450 available hay suppliers. Those suppliers wishing to donate or discount hay are encouraged to make their hay available by filling out a hay supplier form on the Hay Hotline Web site.
TDA is also working with the Texas trucking industry to provide ranchers with more affordable hay transportation in times of drought and other crises.
“The cost to transport hay from out of state, or even within the state, is a costly expense that many ranchers cannot afford,” Commissioner Staples said. “We are appealing to the partnership and neighborly spirit among trucking companies to offer reduced rates for hay delivery to ensure ranchers can maintain the herds they have left through the winter.”
In the meantime, producers in need of hay should also contact their local Texas Department of Transportation office for information on baling the right of ways along Texas highways.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for September 23rd
9/24/2009
There were 2,015 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the September 23rd sale. That compares to 1,372 a week ago and 2,240 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 3.00-5.00 lower, over 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 lower. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 lower, over 500lbs were 1.00-3.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were steady to 1.00 lower. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to firm. Trade was good. Demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

COTTON TOURS
9/23/2009
It is cotton-tour time and Texas AgriLife Extension Service has two scheduled. They will be September 29 and October 06 in Runnels and Tom Green counties, respectively. Continuing Education Unit hours will be offered to participants who attend. Details are included in the following information. (CLICK HERE FOR FLYERS)

The RUNNELS COUNTY Cotton Field Tour, Tuesday, September 29, 2009, starts at 9:00 a.m. at the Runnels County Courthouse in Ballinger. Participants will then travel to the Paul Minzenmayer Farm (just South of Hatchel on Hwy 83) for a tour to include a dryland cotton variety test. The Runnels County Tour will conclude with presentations on Texas Department of Agriculture laws and regulation, Boll Weevil Eradication Update, Cotton Root Rot Update and a complementary meal at the St. Mary*s Old Church Hall. Texas Department of Agriculture will provide 3.0 continuing education units will be offered to those who attend the entire tour. (1 Laws and Regs, and 2 General).

The TOM GREEN COUNTY Cotton Field Tour, Tuesday, October 6, 2009, begins at 9 a.m. at the John and Doug Wilde farm just north of the intersection of Loop 306 and FM 765, east of San Angelo. The Wilde farm tour includes an irrigated cotton variety test, a harvest-aid trial and a look at the cotton root rot study. The tour will conclude with presentations on Texas Department of Agriculture laws and regulations, Boll Weevil Eradication Update and a complimentary meal at St. Ambrose Church BBQ Area. Texas Department of Agriculture will offer 3.0 continuing education units (2 General and 1 Laws and Regs) for those attending the entire tour.

For more information on either tour, call the Extension office in Runnels County at 325-365-2219, the Extension office in Tom Green County at 325-659-6523 or call Rick Minzenmayer at 325-365-5212.

Heart of Texas Range Tour and Workshop
9/22/2009
Lohn - Landowners and hunters alike will want to attend an educational tour and workshop sponsored by the Texas AgriLife Extension Service. The multi-topic educational event will be held on Monday, October 5, 2009 at the Phillips Ranch north of Lohn. Registration will begin at the ranch headquarters at 8:00 am and the program should conclude around 4:00 that afternoon.

McCulloch County AgriLife Extension Agent for Ag and Natural Resources, Vance Christie says, “The program will present numerous options that will help land stewards manage property to improve habitat for wildlife while also including options that allow the sustainability of livestock operations.” The agenda includes Brush Busters methods of individual plant treatments for mesquite, prickly pear, yucca and other brush species while revisiting the Brush Sculpting concept that allows desirable plants to be left for wildlife cover and feed sources. A rainwater harvesting station to provide supplemental water for wildlife has been set up on the ranch, and Billy Kniffen will be on hand to discuss rainwater capture options for livestock and wildlife. In addition identification of beneficial range plants for livestock and wildlife will be discussed by Kniffen and Dr. Allan McGinty.

Dr. Rick Machen will present a discussion on utilizing goats and cattle in a rotational system to improve habitat and maximize grazing on native and improved pastures. Christie also states,” that ranch owner Guy Phillips does a great job with his livestock and wildlife management plans, blending improved coastal, klien and Wilmuth Love Grass pastures with his native pastures. Mr. Phillips has several pastures with varied plant populations that allow him to rotate his cattle, protect against overgrazing and maintain grass, forbs and browse for wildlife at the same time”
The tour portion of the day will wrap up at noon, and the group will travel to the Lohn Tabernacle for a sponsored lunch catered by Mac’s Barbeque. Following Lunch, sponsors will be given an opportunity to discuss new products and technologies that landowners can utilize in their operations. John Newman and Bobby Schmidt will present brief updates on NRCS and FSA programs. Dr. Machen will then address the group on blending livestock production and wildlife management for the benefit of landowners and hunters alike. Concluding the program will be Cory Pence, TDA Inspector to discuss Laws and Regulations that affect Pesticide Applicators. 5 continuing education units (CEU’s) will be offered for participants holding their Applicator’s License.

To get to the ranch, from Brady, take US 87 North to US 283 North, go past the Lohn cut-off to County Road 314. Turn right on CR 314 and follow it approximately 2 ½ miles and it will terminate at the ranch headquarters for registration.

Due to meal and space limitations, only 80 participants will be allowed to register. Participants must RSVP to the McCulloch County AgriLife Extension Office before at 5:00 pm, Thursday October 1 and again only the first 80 registrants will be accepted. For more information or to confirm your registration, call 325-597-1295.

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for September 16th
9/18/2009
There were 1,372 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the September 16th sale. That compares to 2,129 a week ago and 2,118 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher, over 500lbs were 2.00-4.00 lower. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were steady to firm, over 500lbs were 3.00-5.00 lower. Slaughter cows and bulls were 2.00-4.00 higher. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were 100.00 lower. Trade was good. Demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

2009 Drought Information
9/16/2009 (From the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality website)
Large sections of the state are experiencing exceptional drought. These prolonged, dry conditions put strain on water supplies for all uses. The following linked page provides information to help people make better decisions about water use. http://www.tceq.state.tx.us/agency/drought.html

Coleman Livestock Market Summary for September 9th
9/11/2009
There were 2,129 cattle on offer at the Coleman Livestock Auction for the September 9th sale. That compares to 2,420 a week ago and 1,073 a year ago.

Compared to last week: Feeder steers under 500lbs were 3.00-5.00 lower, over 500lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher. Feeder heifers under 500lbs were 1.00-2.00 higher, over 500lbs were 2.00-3.00 higher. Slaughter cows and bulls were 1.00-2.00 lower. Replacement cows and cow/calf pairs were steady to 50.00 lower. Trade was good. Demand was good. Click on the Coleman Livestock Auction banner for a full market report.

AGRICULTURE SECRETARY VILSACK HIGHLIGHTS RECOVERY ACT PROGRESS AFTER FIRST 200 DAYS; ANNOUNCES ADDITIONAL $172 MILLION FOR RURAL WATER PROJECTS
9/9/2009
USDA Meets President Obama's Directive to Expedite Recovery Act Projects and Invest in Rural America; More than $27 billion in USDA Projects Announced in First 200 Days

TEMPLE, TEXAS — On the 200th day since President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act into law, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today highlighted the important investments being made in communities throughout the country and announced an additional $172.5 million in funding for water and environmental projects in 24 states. Vilsack also announced that USDA has met the President's directive and has funded more than 200 water and environmental projects since the 100th day of the Recovery Act. To date, USDA has announced $1.64 billion for loans and grants for similar projects. Altogether, the Department has announced $27.8 billion of the $28.0 billion in Recovery Act projects, benefiting people throughout the country. To see additional information about USDA's progress within the Recovery Act's first 200 days, visit http://www.usda.gov/2009/09/0418.xml .

"Recovery Act is putting people to work right now while making our communities safer and improving the quality of life for many years to come," Vilsack said.

In this announcement, the City of Winters, Texas has been approved for a $2,795,800 water and waste disposal loan and grant. The project will be for the replacement of aging dilapidated lines within the City’s water distribution system. The City of Winters will have safe, reliable drinking water for their 1,194 connections and the system will decrease their water loss by having new lines.

The AARA funding announced today is being administered by USDA Rural Development's Water program. USDA Rural Development's Water and Environmental Program provides loans and grants to ensure that the necessary investments are made in water and wastewater infrastructure to deliver safe drinking water and protect the environment in rural areas. More information about USDA Rural Development can be found at www.rurdev.usda.gov . Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.

President Obama signed The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 into law on Feb. 17, 2009. It is designed to jumpstart the nation's economy, create or save millions of jobs and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century. The Act includes measures to modernize our nation's infrastructure, enhance energy independence, expand educational opportunities, preserve and improve affordable health care, provide tax relief, and protect those in greatest need.

More information about USDA's Recovery Act efforts is available at www.usda.gov/recovery. More information about the Federal government's efforts on the Recovery Act is available at www.recovery.gov .

USDA RURAL DEVELOPMENT SEEKS APPLICATIONS
FOR VALUE-ADDED PRODUCER GRANTS
9/3/2009
TEMPLE, TEXAS, September 3, 2009 — Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that USDA is accepting applications for grants to assist agricultural producers seeking to add value to the commodities they produce. Approximately $18 million will be awarded nationwide.

"These grants strengthen rural economies and create jobs by helping farmers and ranchers add value to their agricultural products by using them for planning activities such as feasibility studies, marketing and business plans, or for working capital," Vilsack said. "This program also supports President Obama's goal to expand our nation's renewable energy resources by helping farmers develop renewable energy from agricultural products."

Planning grants up to $100,000 and working capital grants up to $300,000 will be awarded through USDA Rural Development’s Value Added Producer Grant program. USDA is encouraging projects that use existing agricultural products in nontraditional ways and/or merge agricultural products with technology in creative ways.

Businesses of all sizes may apply, but priority will be given to operators of Small and Medium-Sized Family Farms or Ranches with a 3-year average of $700,000 or less in annual gross sales of agricultural product. The competitive grants to be awarded under this notice are part of USDA Rural Development’s annual budget and are not funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

Applicants must provide matching funds equal to the amount of the grant requested. Ten percent of available funds are reserved for beginning farmers or ranchers, and socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers. An additional 10 percent is reserved for projects involving local and regional supply networks that link independent producers with businesses and cooperatives that market value-added products.

Paper applications for both unreserved and reserved funds must be postmarked and mailed, shipped or sent overnight no later than November 30, 2009 to the Rural Development Texas State Office, Attention Business and Cooperative Programs, 101 South Main Street, Suite 102, Temple, TX 76501. Electronic applications for both unreserved and reserved funds must be submitted through www.Grants.gov and received by November 30, 2009. For additional information, see the September 1, 2009 Federal Register, page 46165.

USDA Rural Development’s mission is to increase economic opportunity and improve the quality of life for rural residents. Rural Development fosters growth in homeownership, finances business development and supports the creation of critical community and technology infrastructure. For more information on the Value-Added Producer Grant Program, please contact Billy Curb, Business and Cooperative Specialist at (254) 742-9775. Further information on the Value Added Producer Grant is available at one of our local offices or by visiting the web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/rbs/coops/vadg.htm .

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