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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

Forage Systems Update
Vol 15, No. 2

As we gear up for the grazing season, it is time to make sure that fencing supplies and equipment are ready to go. Here are a few of the things I do to make sure I'm ready for the summer grazing season. I make sure there is an adequate supply of temporary fencing supplies; step in posts, poly wire on reels, and gate handles that are not cracked. I hate to get shocked. I really, really hate to get shocked, so if a gate handle is questionable it is disposed of. I also inspect the handles on the poly wire reels for cracks and make sure the reels roll smoothly.

One thing the farm crew did to help me out this year was install cut off switches at the gates into all the pastures. I can turn the electricity off in the pasture where I am working without shutting off all of the fences in the grazing system. This saves me a lot of steps and a lot of time, and I don't have to worry about getting shocked or cattle going through fences in the other paddocks. I just make sure to turn the switch back on when I leave the pasture. You should also check fencers to be sure they are in working order and line fences for breaks and shorts. Have at least one fence voltage tester available. I think mine is in the truck, maybe under the seat? I will also replace the batteries in my fence tester, after it is located.

In order to be prepared in the event I need to treat an area for insects or weeds, I inventory pesticides to ensure the supply on hand is adequate. Make sure sweep nets, sample bags, and hand lenses are available. Check spray equipment for leaks and plugged nozzles, I also calibrate sprayers to ensure the correct amount of pesticides are being applied.

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