Agriculture

Kentucky farmers have battled weeds resistant to herbicides containing glyphosate for the past decade. A recent survey of agriculture and natural resource agents with the University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service indicates these weeds are becoming more widespread.
Marestail (also known as horseweed), Palmer amaranth and waterhemp are examples of weeds that are not being controlled with glyphosate. James Martin, UK weed scientist, said all three weeds can pose problems for soybean growers.  

The Farm Service Agency State Executive Director, John W. McCauley, announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture will conduct a four-week Conservation Reserve Program  general signup.  This CRP signup will begin on March 12 and end on April 6,. CRP has a 25-year legacy of successfully protecting the nation’s natural resources, while providing significant economic and environmental benefits to rural communities across the United States.  

Most people are aware of the danger to ash trees from the emerald ash borer throughout North America. According to a sobering USDA Forest Service publication, “Emerald ash borer is the most destructive forest insect introduced into North America in recent history. Our present ability to detect, contain, eradicate, or manage EAB infestations is limited . . . The eventual loss of the vast majority of ash trees in North America should be anticipated.” To read the entire publication, please visit http://na.fs.fed.us/pubs/eab/eab_strategy.pdf.

Getting a message out to the masses has never been so convenient, and the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture is no stranger to engaging multi-generational, diverse audiences. It was a natural progression for the college to develop a strong social media presence.