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Grazing School
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Superintendent
David Davis
21262 Genoa Road
Linneus, MO 64653
Phone: 660 895-5121
FAX: 660 895=5122
Email:
DavisDK@missouri.edu
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October 1, 2003
Forage Systems Update
Vol 12, No. 4
Field Notes from Valerie Tate
Normal precipitation at FSRC is 39.48 inches annually (data
collected on site since 1975 through 2002). During the 365 days
prior to August 25, 2003, the total precipitation we received was
only 18.6 inches, 47% of what we would normally expect to receive.
This lack of rainfall was compounded by the fact the average high
temperature for a two week period in mid August was 100 degrees with
an average nighttime low of over 70 degrees. Needless to say, we
began feeding hay to most of the cow herd in early August because
pasture was non-existent. We weren't just dry; we were parched.
But relief was in sight, it began raining on August 26 and in the
next 30 days we had nine inches of rain. It is amazing how quickly
things turned green with adequate moisture and cooler temperatures.
The hot temperatures and the dry conditions did take a toll on our
research projects. The grass variety trial, which was seeded last
fall, was particularly hard hit. It was harvested only one time
this year. Plants have rebounded following the rain and the plant
stands will be evaluated this fall to see which varieties withstood
the drought. Late summer harvest of all research plots, whether
they were alfalfa or cool season grass studies were all light due to
limited regr8owth following spring harvest.
We established an 'Ozark' Bermudagrass demonstration plot this
spring. Bermudagrass thrives in hot, dry conditions, but we did
water the area to ensure the stand had the opportunity to establish.
We will be evaluating this "southern" forage to see how well it
survives the winter.
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