Extension Calling: advice for the farm, garden, and home

276 episodes - English - Latest episode: 27 days ago - ★★★★★ - 2 ratings

Your source for research-based information for the farm, garden, and home. We bring Extension education to your pocket in 30 minutes or less. Please share your thoughts and ideas at: https://bit.ly/ExtensionCallingEvaluation.

These mini-trainings will give you entry to mid-level information that is easily digestible. If you are looking to improve your health, the health of your farm or garden, or simply better understand our food system, tune in.

Recorded by Karen Cox of WVU Extension ([email protected]) and Dan Lima of OSU Extension ([email protected]). Produced by Karen Cox. Transcripts by Dan Lima.

Programs and activities offered by the West Virginia University and Ohio State University Extension Services are available to all persons without regard to race, color, sex, disability, religion, age, veteran status, political beliefs, sexual orientation, national origin, and marital or family status.

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Episodes

Leasing Land for Agriculture

July 26, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 28.4 MB

Today we bring you the livestock report and a flashback to a show from 2018 on how to lease land for agriculture. You shouldn't treat it like a regular lease. The most important thing is to have an open broad discussion up front and a record of the decisions that are made. Tune in to learn more about what you need to know to lease land for agriculture.

What comes out must go in: keeping tabs on soil inputs

July 19, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 28 MB

Great job! You have your soil test results and you are following them to a T, but should you be? If your harvest is less than the production predicted in the recommendations, you may be applying too much fertilizer. Join us for a half hour to learn more about how to determine if your harvest is using the nutrients you are adding. While we talk more about hay and row crops this information can be applied to produce as well.

Lessening the likelyhood of Lyme Disease

July 12, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 28.5 MB

Ticks are part of summer (well, all seasons really). As people venture outdoors the risk of getting bitten increases. Unfortunately, ticks carry several zoonotic diseases. Today we discuss the most common one in this area: lyme disease. Learn to recognize the symptoms of lyme disease and how to best protect yourself and your pets from ticks.

New Tomato Disease update and a look at kudzu and poison hemlock

July 05, 2020 16:00 - 24 minutes - 26.2 MB

There's a new tomato virus, thankfully it's not in town. Learn steps to help keep your tomatoes protected. We'll also help you understand how to identify kudzu and poison hemlock this summer and provide tips on how to control them.

Financial help for Revenue loss and Controlling Knotweed

June 28, 2020 16:00 - 25 minutes - 26.9 MB

Watching the prices plummet or sales completely stop caused many farmers more than one night of lost sleep. We discuss the Corona Virus Food Assistance Program (CAFP) and how it could benefit small and large farms alike. Afterwards we discuss methods for how to control the dreaded and difficult knotweed.

Managing Pasture Growth is Key For Animal Gains

June 23, 2020 13:39 - 28 minutes - 29.6 MB

A good beef farmer is a good grass farmer. This goes for all grazing animals. Quality food in sufficient quantities is important for the health of all living things. This week we discuss pasture management and it's importance to grass health and productivity. We also review different levels of management intensity and how to judge the best level for your farm.

Production and Processing: a plea for local meats

June 14, 2020 16:00 - 24 minutes - 25.3 MB

Why is meat so expensive at the grocery store right now? How can I improve my local food security? Can I buy meat right off of a farm? What is the risk of getting Covid-19 from meat packing plants that got shut down? These are just a few of the questions we answer in this weeks episode.

Do you know what the water is doing to your soil?

June 07, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 30 MB

This week Dan and Karen dive deep into how soil texture can tell you when and why to be worried about water. Protect your soils from long term damage by learning danger signs for compaction and ideas on how to know your soil's texture.

Fungicides for Fighting Funky Fruits

May 31, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 28 MB

Quality Fruit production takes attention and time. Monitoring temperatures, rainfall, and past disease issues are essential in developing a proper fungicide spray program. But, don't skip sanitation as it is your strongest ally in preventing funky fungal fruit infections!

Reducing the Risks of Rainy Days through planning, planting, and protecting

May 24, 2020 16:00 - 25 minutes - 37 MB

Wild weather is something any farmer should plan for. But, crops that will last 30 years or so like orchards present unique long term planning challenges. We talk about how to plan ahead and protect your livelihood weather you're crop will be ready in one season or years from now. Local auctions for livestock, produce, and hay get us started.

Getting Started with Sheep and Goats

May 17, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 27.1 MB

A special guest from OSU's sheep team, Christine Gelley, joins Dan and Karen to discuss the basics of raising sheep and goats. From foods and supplements to fencing and marketing let us help you get things started on the right hoof. More on raising sheep and goats can be found at: https://u.osu.edu/sheep/

Selling Safe Food at the Farmers Market

May 10, 2020 16:00 - 20 minutes - 22.9 MB

Have you gotten really good at making bread while being locked in? Did your victory garden get a bit out of hand? Just in time for farmers market season to gear up, we go over some of the rules for selling baked goods, eggs, and more at your local market. The regulations can sometimes feel overwhelming but we are here to help! Reach out to Karen at [email protected] or Dan at [email protected] to get your questions answered.

Rainy Hay Seasons May Bring More Balage

May 03, 2020 16:00 - 24 minutes - 25.7 MB

This week Dan and Karen review putting up silage or balage as an alternative to hay when it just won't stop raining. There are certain steps to harvest and prepare balage properly that you must take to avoid potential disaster.

How to be happy with the tree you plant

April 26, 2020 16:20 - 25 minutes - 26.8 MB

In honor of Arbor Day Karen and Dan discuss some of the often forgotten planning steps to consider when planting a tree and their disastrous impacts.

Weeds weeds weeds

April 20, 2020 18:02 - 26 minutes - 28 MB

Weeds are a constant challenge in produce and pasture. Today Karen and Dan discuss how different weeds require different strategies for control and provide some techniques and things to look for.

So you brought home some peeps for Easter, now what?

April 12, 2020 16:00 - 24 minutes - 26.7 MB

This week we take on the basics of raising backyard chickens. From which type of bird would be best, to getting healthy peeps and feeding them right. We also discuss potential diseases and predators to watch out for.

Keeping food safe from farm to market

April 05, 2020 16:00 - 26 minutes - 27 MB

Food safety is always a priority and farmers take many steps to stop food-borne illnesses. But what can we do to help farmers and consumers stay safe during the COVID-19 outbreak? This episode answers questions like can food carry this virus and will sales be safe at livestock and produce auctions. Even if you aren't sick, if you can stay home, do stay home, so those that can't stay home are safer. #flattenthecurve

Livestock auctions, soil tests , and growing blueberries

March 29, 2020 16:00 - 27 minutes - 29.5 MB

Today we go over some of the changes livestock auctions are making to help keep you safe. We also offer some tips about what you can do to help our soil test labs keep up. Finally, we talk blueberries, our acid loving fruit and some tips on choosing the variety that best suits your needs.

Grapes and their care

March 22, 2020 16:00 - 29 minutes - 20.3 MB

Recording off site but still going! This we we'll give you the latest auction report and talk about growing grapes.

What do for the garden in March

March 08, 2020 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

With days getting longer, many gardeners and farmers are getting the itch to get planting. While starting seeds indoors and planting in greenhouses is well underway, we help you know what things can be done to get you outside.

Pruning Fruit Trees

March 01, 2020 17:00 - 28 minutes - 27 MB

Whether you are starting an orchard or renovating grandma's prize winning apple tree there are good and bad ways to do it. Listen in to save yourself trouble down the road.

Spotted Lantern Fly

February 23, 2020 17:00 - 29 minutes - 27.5 MB

It's coming! Watch for it! Smash it (but call someone first so we can positively ID it)!

Starting Seeds

February 16, 2020 17:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Learn best practices for starting seeds so your plants have a good healthy start!

Environmental Impacts

February 09, 2020 17:00 - 27 minutes - 26.2 MB

Best Practices and ideas for managing environmental impacts on the farm.

Master Gardener Program

January 29, 2020 18:10 - 27 minutes - 26.1 MB

Master Gardeners are one of the largest volunteer organizations in the country. That's especially amazing when you consider they have to take 40 hours of training and give 40 hours of time just to join up. This all happens because these volunteers are passionate about plants and enjoy being with others who feel the same. Won't you join us? Trainings occur in all 50 states, learn more here: https://extension.wvu.edu/lawn-gardening-pests/master-gardener-program

Managing Forage

January 21, 2020 20:46 - 29 minutes - 28.2 MB

Whether you graze in the winter or feed hay, there are steps you can take to improve your farm's success. This week we talk pasture management for healthy forages.

Soil Testing Why and How

November 20, 2019 20:28 - 10 minutes - 12.5 MB

Check out our new shorter format as we dive into the benefits of soil testing and give some pointers on how to do it right. Transcripts available - please email [email protected]

Got Woods? Protect them

November 03, 2019 17:00 - 29 minutes - 27.7 MB

In this episode we hope to help you identify what is most valuable about your woods for you and your family. Whether it be an investment for retirement or for enjoying the health benefits of being outside, having a plan can make all the difference for meeting your goals.

Feeder Calf Sales vs Auction - also forage testing

October 20, 2019 16:00 - 25 minutes - 26.1 MB

Have you ever wondered if participating in feeder calf sales is really worth it? We compare results from one of our local feeder calf sales with their auction floor prices to find out. Later we discuss forage testing and why it makes a difference in your bottom line. If you'd like any additional information on these topics please contact your local extension office.

Common Questions about GMO's

October 13, 2019 16:00 - 29 minutes - 27.4 MB

Yep, we're taking the plunge and talking Genetically Modified Organisms today. What are they? Why is it a big deal? And should you be worried.

Improve Sale Prices through Handling and Transportation

October 08, 2019 14:35 - 27 minutes - 26.2 MB

Use low stress handling and good planning to improve your price at the market. Always work and transport cattle in a calm manner, properly load your trailers, and watch your calendars. We also discuss the importance a good biosecurity plan.

Using Nature to reduce pest pressure

September 29, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 27.2 MB

Ever wondered if there was another way to deal with mice, weeds and other pesky problems? Today we discuss different techniques for controlling both animal and herbaceous pests.

Cover Cropping

September 22, 2019 16:00 - 29 minutes - 27.5 MB

Should you use a cover crop? What cover crop meets your needs? What do I need to do before planting my next rotation if I use a cover crop? These questions are addressed today to help get you started on your soil improvement journey.

Staying Safe Around Pipelines and Buried Utilities

September 15, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 21.2 MB

Tune in for this great interview with Brandon Sternadel from the Pipeline Ag Safety Alliance. We discuss when to call 811 and why. Keep your farm and your family safe and save your bank account from a costly mistake by tuning in and calling 811. For a copy of the Farm and Ranch Excavation guide contact me at [email protected] or 304-234-3673. Great info for homeowners, landowners, gardeners, and farmers.

Water Quality for Fields and Irrigation

September 08, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.8 MB

What is in your water and why you need to know. From food safety aspects, to runoff problems, to irrigation and fertigation issues, it is important to know what is in the water you are using on the farm.

Fall Forage Management - Planning Ahead

September 01, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.9 MB

Is your pasture in need? Now is a great time to reseed, treat perennial weeds, fertilize winter pastures, and plan out your grazing paddocks for the winter. Download to learn more!

Sudden Oak Death - Should you be worried?

August 28, 2019 13:48 - 28 minutes - 27.1 MB

Rhododendrons infected with Phytophthora ramorum or Sudden Oak Death were sold through big box stores in March and April of 2019. Learn how to identify the signs and symptoms of infection. We also answer: What are the potential implications? What are states doing about it? And what can you do? (Local Hay and Livestock Prices thru 3:50). To learn more about this disease visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/

Disasters and their effects on the beef market - Managing risk

August 18, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Dan and Karen share the local livestock prices and discuss potential causes for volatility in the market. They also discuss a few risk management strategies such as futures and managing winter expenses.

Roses

August 18, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.9 MB

From selection to planting to pruning to overwintering, we discuss how to care for roses.

Healthy Living Episode - E-cigarettes and their impacts

August 16, 2019 16:28 - 29 minutes - 27.4 MB

Dan and Marissa from the Belmont County Extension office discuss the marketing and health issues associated with E-cigarettes or vaping.

Beef health: use of antimicrobials and ionifores

July 28, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 27 MB

Get an update on proper usage of antibiotics to improve animal health while following VFD Regulations. BQA. Local livestock report through 3:22.

Handling Heat Stress in Livestock

July 18, 2019 22:09 - 23 minutes - 19.1 MB

Special release for the heat wave: a review of precautions to keep yourself and your animals safe in the heat. More thorough information can be found here: Livestock Heat Stress: Recognition, Response and Prevention

Composting #2: Turning Manure into Gold

July 14, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.6 MB

Learn about steps for properly composting manure in windrows. Improve nutrient content, reduce environmental impacts, remove weed issues, and decrease potential hazards that could impact food safety. Great additional information here: http://sustainableagriculture.net/fsma/learn-about-the-issues/manure-and-compost/

Composting: A How To for Quality Results

July 07, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.6 MB

Composting helps to reduce waste going to landfills and convert trash to treasure. We discuss how to balance carbon and nitrogen ratios for optimal decay and plant nutrient values as well as how to troubleshoot common composting problems. A great reference for composting can be found here: https://extension2.missouri.edu/g6956. Local livestock and hay reports for the first 8 minutes. *Correction: during the show Karen indicated that adding fats to the compost will slow the process down, th...

Aquatic Weeds, Prevention and Treatment for Ponds

June 30, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.7 MB

Got a pond? Got weeds in your pond? Want them gone? This show is for you! We discuss why some ponds have more weed problems than others and ways to reduce nutrient loads, reduce weed development, and keep fish healthy. We give a quick overview of structure, and why fish kills happen then dive down into the wide variety of weed management techniques.

Biosecurity, keeping animals healthy on the Farm

June 23, 2019 16:00 - 28 minutes - 26.8 MB

This week's hay and livestock report is from Mt. Hope Auction (through 5:55). Then we dive into what to know about African Swine Fever. We spend most of this segment on biosecurity tips that will keep your pigs and other livestock safe on the farm. Visit your checkoff website for good biosecurity checklists that are specific to your animal. You can sign up for news updates for your livestock from the APHIS animal health page https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-dis...