AgriLife Extension Wildlife & Fisheries
AgriLife Extension Wildlife & FisheriesTeaching, Research, Extension and Service

East Texas Master Naturalist application deadline Jan. 22

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OVERTON – The deadline to participate in 2018 East Texas Texas Master Naturalist classes is rapidly approaching – Jan. 22. Classes begin Jan. 30 and conclude April 17.

Classes run from 6-9 p.m. on consecutive Tuesdays at the Tyler Nature Center, 11942 Farm-to-Market Road 848 in Tyler. There will also be one Saturday class and three Saturday field trips.

The East Texas Master Naturalist program is a chance to learn about the natural world and its preservation for future generations. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Steve Byrns)

“If you want to learn about our rich East Texas ecosystem and volunteer with like-minded people, this program is for you,” said Larry Pierce, Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service regional program leader, Overton.

“Whether you are into bugs, birds or botany, you will enjoy these classes and the fun ways Master Naturalists find to enjoy the outdoors while helping preserve natural treasures for future generations.”

The program is sponsored by AgriLife Extension and Texas Parks and Wildlife. It is for residents in Smith, Cherokee, Anderson, Henderson, Van Zandt, Rains, Upshur, Gregg, Rusk and Wood counties.

Cost is $150, which covers tuition, materials, instruction and more.

The program includes more than 40 hours of classroom study and field trips. Classes cover topics such as wetland ecology, forest ecology and tree identification, mammalogy, herpetology, ornithology, plants, geology, archeology and more.

For more information and an application, contact Beverly Guthrie, East Texas chapter member, at finwren@sbcglobal.net, or visit the Texas Master Naturalist website http://txmn.org/etwd/.

“We’ve really stepped up the list of instructors to offer a great program,” Guthrie said. “I’ve heard many times that going through the program is a life-changing experience.”

 

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Texas Crop and Weather Report — Nov. 21, 2017

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Catfish production down but Texas producers faring well

COLLEGE STATION – Texas catfish production is down, but that’s not bad news for fish producers around the state, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.

Dr. Todd Sink, AgriLife Extension fisheries specialist, College Station, said Texas catfish producers were slowly entering the annual catfish harvest and production was expected to be down about 5 percent. The drop, however, is attributed to producers’ shift to production of higher value species such as red drum and striped bass.

Catfish harvest is underway in Texas and will escalate as temperatures continue to drop. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Dr. Todd Sink)

“They’re just seeing better profit margins on those species,” he said. “Catfish prices have been low to stagnant for the past 20 years as production costs have continued to rise, so they’re looking at options.”

Sink said post-harvest live-weight values for catfish, $1.34, was much better than it has been. Texas produces around 19 million pounds of catfish annually and is No. 4 in the nation behind Alabama, Mississippi and Arkansas.

There are 15 major producers in the state, but Sink said there are numerous “mom-and-pop” operations that market local fish to restaurants, grocers and individuals.

Sink said producers harvest fish throughout the year, but major harvests occur each winter as temperatures drop.

“Once the temperature dips below 50 degrees fish stop eating,” he said. “They start losing weight and producers want to take them to market before they start losing money.”

Sink said expectations for above-average temperatures could allow producers to push harvest longer than typical. Producers typically begin harvesting in earnest during November and catfish supplies should build through December.

“Consumers should expect prices to go down as supply numbers increase,” he said.

Sink said competition with Chinese catfish producers has affected U.S. prices some. About 10 percent of catfish in U.S. markets are produced in China, which has transitioned some capacity to production of North American species including channel catfish versus native species to appeal to U.S. consumers.

“If it doesn’t say U.S. farm-raised, there’s a good chance it’s Chinese,” he said. “They’re adapting their production because they can produce fish much cheaper and export it for better prices in the states. At this point they produce about 20-25 percent of the seafood we consume in the U.S.”

AgriLife Extension district reporters compiled the following summaries:

The 12 Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Districts

CENTRAL: Warm temperatures following rain helped small grain growth. Overall, winter wheat and oats were doing well. Cotton harvest was completed. Field work for corn planting began. Pastures continued to decline with cooler temperatures. Supplemental feeding was necessary. Livestock and wildlife were active and in good condition. Fly numbers were still high. Stock tank levels showed signs of drought stress. Nearly all counties reported good soil moisture. Overall crop, rangeland and pasture conditions were good in most counties.

ROLLING PLAINS: Temperatures were unusually warm. Cotton harvest came to a halt in some areas due to damp, cloudy days. In drier counties, weather was ideal for cotton harvest. Topsoil moisture was low, and rain was needed. Feral hog movement was up, and there were reports of cotton crop losses. Pastures were dormant, and cattle were on supplemental feed where needed. A few wheat pasture stockers were turned out on adequate forage.

COASTAL BEND: Warm and dry weather continued with a few scattered showers reported. Producers continued to fertilize where moisture was available. Winter oats and ryegrass have come up in some areas. However, lack of measurable rainfall left topsoil in dry condition, and winter pastures continued to be stressed by low soil moisture. Heavy fall armyworm pressure continued to be a problem. Pecan harvest continued. A second crop of rice was being cut, and harvest was expected to continue until mid-December. Some producers were finishing up the last bit of hay cutting for the season. Cattle remained in good condition, and many producers were sending calves to market with slightly higher prices reported, which made for large runs at local auctions.

EAST: Cooler temperatures and sparse rainfall continued across the district. The Anderson County wheat crop made only moderate growth due to a lack of rainfall. Pecan harvest was in full swing with some varieties producing heavy crops. Anderson County battled pecan scab disease on several varieties of pecan trees. Producers across the district who planted late cool-season forages have seen crops start to emerge. Henderson and Smith counties reported large amounts of volunteer ryegrass growing along with fall crops of greens. Pasture and rangeland conditions were mostly fair across the district with the exception of Rusk and Smith counties, which reported good conditions, and Harrison, Marion and Newton counties, which reported poor conditions. Subsoil and topsoil conditions were short in Gregg, Harrison, Marion and Wood counties, with all other counties reporting adequate conditions. Producers continued supplemental feeding with protein, energy and hay throughout the district. Cattle market prices continued to hold firm with classes $2-$3 higher per hundredweight and large numbers at the sale barns. Producers reported livestock body conditions as fair to good. Wild pig damage was reported in Cherokee, Gregg, Henderson, Upshur and Wood counties.

SOUTH PLAINS: Subsoil and topsoil moisture levels continued to dry out. High humidity and cool, damp weather kept farmers out of fields to strip cotton for a couple of days. Yields were average to better than average. Corn, sorghum, sunflower and peanut harvests continued. Winter wheat continued to mature. Pastures and rangeland remained in fair to good condition. Cattle were in good condition.

PANHANDLE: Temperatures were cold one day and warmer the next, then cold again. Soil moisture was short to adequate in most areas. Lipscomb County cotton harvest continued at a slow pace due to high humidity. Corn harvest was complete. Sorghum harvest was still ongoing. Wheat could use some rain. Yields for all crops were above average. Corn yields were 160-180 bushels per acre. Dryland sorghum yielded 3,000-4,000 pounds per acre while irrigated fields yielded 5,000-7,000 pounds per acre with harvest 60 percent completed. Dryland cotton produced 1.5-2 bales per acre while irrigated yielded 2.5-3.5 bales per acre with harvest near 70 percent complete. Rangeland was dormant, and supplemental feeding of cattle continued.

NORTH: There was some precipitation reported by a few counties but no measurable amounts. The moisture was helpful, but much more was needed for the small grains and the annual winter pastures. Small grain planting was 90 percent complete. Temperatures ranged from the mid-80s in the daytime to the low 40s at night. Soil conditions were very dry, with topsoil and subsoil moisture levels ranging from mostly short to adequate, with some counties reporting very short. Livestock were in good condition, and a lot of producers were starting to supplement hay. Cotton harvest continued to be very good, with most fields yielding two bales per acre. Wheat that was planted earlier was doing well, and the producers will be able to turn cattle on those wheat and oat pastures soon. Calving should begin soon.

FAR WEST: Temperatures were in the high 90s with lows in the 30s. Rain reports of 0.1 to 0.5 of an inch was reported. Wind was severe on several days. Pima and upland cotton harvests continued with producers making steady progress. There was still some very good yielding cotton left to be harvested. The wheat crop looked a little better as spraying for fall armyworms relaxed. The last cut of alfalfa was baled. Chili pepper harvesting was underway. Western Schley pecans were expected to be harvested as soon as a decent freeze arrives. Grass was browning and created a high chance of fires due to wind. Cattle maintained body condition scores, and producers continued to feed livestock and wildlife.

WEST CENTRAL: Weather was unseasonably warm and dry. Soil moisture was short. All areas needed rainfall. Stock tank levels continued to drop, and there was concern for those who have no other water sources for livestock. Winter wheat and oats were in mostly good to fair condition. Mild temperatures improved growing conditions for small grains. Many producers had to replant wheat due to armyworm damage. Rain was needed in newly planted fields. Cotton harvest was back in full swing with good harvest conditions. Yield reports were slightly better than projected at average to above average with good grades as well. Mild temperatures and recent rains improved both rangeland and pasture conditions. Warm-season grasses and forages were played out. Cool-season grasses were beginning to grow. Livestock continued to look good and remained in fair to good condition heading into winter. Supplemental feeding increased, and fall cattle work continued.

SOUTHEAST: Livestock were in good condition. Many cattle producers established winter forage. Ratoon rice harvest was complete, and row crop farmers continued field work. Rainfall was needed. In Waller County, a cold front brought windy conditions. Temperatures were slightly above normal. Cooler temperatures were in the forecast. Pasture conditions remained on the poor side; however, winter cover crops such as ryegrass appeared to be coming on strong. Soil-moisture levels throughout the district ranged from adequate to surplus with short being the most common. Rangeland and pasture ratings varied from excellent to very poor with fair being most common.

SOUTHWEST: No report provided.

SOUTH: Conditions were warm, and most of the district did not receive rain. The southernmost areas reported good rains but no measurements. Some western parts of the district reported morning fog and mist. Peanut harvest continued. Wheat planting was complete. Pasture and rangeland conditions remained fair to good and were improving in areas that received recent moisture. Summer perennial grasses were going into dormancy and curing. Native rangeland and improved pastures continued to provide good supplies of forage, which eliminated any supplemental feeding. A few areas reported poor rangeland and pasture conditions and supplemental feeding of cattle. Body condition scores on cattle remained good. Some cow herds were being worked, and calves were being shipped. Vegetable crops were done for the season in most counties, and Coastal Bermuda grass was dormant. In Starr County, fall vegetable crops were progressing well. In Zavala County, fresh market baby leaf spinach harvest was very active. Cabbage harvest started in early planted fields. Onion and tomato crops were maturing in southern parts of the district. Wheat and oats under irrigation made good progress. Pecan harvest was complete. Armyworm pressure on wheat and oats was reduced following chemical control applications, but some areas reported damages from the pest. Most fields were prepared for the winter. The sales barn in Brooks County marketed 830 head and prices were down.

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Invasive zebra mussels have spread to Lake Georgetown and Lake Livingston

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This destructive species, originating from Eurasia, can damage boats, clog water intakes and litter shorelines with sharp shells. The way boaters can help slow the spread? Clean, drain and dry all boating equipment before leaving the boat ramp. 

Remember, it is unlawful to possess or transport zebra mussels, dead or alive, in the State of Texas. It is required that boaters drain all water from their boat and any on-board receptacles before leaving or approaching a body of fresh water to prevent the transfer of zebra mussels. The draining requirement applies to all types and sizes of boats: personal watercraft, sailboats, kayaks/canoes or any other vessel used on public waters. Zebra mussel larvae are microscopic. Both the larvae and adult mussels can survive for days on boats transported from a lake. This is especially so during cooler fall months.

Visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department‘s website for the full story.

For more information on Zebra Mussels and learn more about stopping their spread in our lakes, visit the Texas Invasives’ website.

Registration open for 2018 Birding on the Border program

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April 23-26 program will include sites in Kinney, Val Verde counties

Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-859-5752, paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu

Contact: Dr. Maureen Frank, 830-278-9151, mgfrank@tamu.edu

BRACKETTVILLE – The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service will present a Birding the Border program from April 23-26 of next year at locations in Kinney and Val Verde counties.

The program will begin at 5:30 p.m. April 23 and conclude at 10:30 p.m. April 26. Birding locations will include sites at Fort Clark Springs, private ranches, Kickapoo Caverns State Park and San Felipe Creek.

Fort Clark Springs will be one of the Birding on the Border program sites. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo)

“The goal of this program is to provide attendees with a unique birding experience in southwest Texas that goes beyond a typical birding tour,” said Dr. Maureen Frank, AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist, Uvalde. “It will feature both public and private lands, and educational talks about bird ecology and management.”

Frank said while she expects many experienced birders to be interested in this program, birders of all experience levels are welcome to participate.

Frank said “target birds” for the program include the golden-cheeked warbler, black-capped vireo, white-collared seedeater, gray vireo, green jay, great kiskadee, varied bunting, black-tailed gnatcatcher, elf owl and three species of kingfishers.

During the program, Frank will also provide educational presentation on migration phenology, building a native bird habitat and preventing invasive species, and basic bird biology, habitat and behavior.

Lodging for four nights and meals will be provided, as well as transportation to the various birding sites. All nights will be at the same lodging locale in Fort Clark Springs.

The program cost is $625 per person, $525 if sharing a room and $425 if there’s no lodging. To register online, go to https://birdingtheborder-tamu.ticketleap.com/bb2018/.

“The field trips will include easy to moderate terrain and a combination of walks, short to moderate hikes and roadside birding,” Frank said.

Upon arrival, participants will have a meal at historic Fort Clark Springs in Brackettville where they will learn about the area and the bird species they can expect to encounter.

“We will spend time birding at Fort Clark Springs, where dozens of species of migratory birds pass through on their way north,” Frank said. “We will also have the opportunity to bird at a local private ranch with golden-cheeked warbler habitat, then enjoy a catered picnic at Kickapoo Ranch State Park in time to watch the bats depart and listen for owls.”

Attendees will spend one morning at a local ranch known for its populations of painted buntings, northern bobwhite and orioles. Lunch on that day will be in the native plant garden at the ranch and will include a program on habitat management for songbirds.

Frank said the birding experience will also provide numerous photographic opportunities for those who would like to bring cameras.

“April in southwest Texas usually offers beautiful weather with warm days and mild nights, but rain is possible,” Frank said. “Please check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.”

To see an event flyer, go to http://counties.agrilife.org/kinney/files/2017/07/Flyer.pdf .

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Reports of tainted Texas corn raise concern among some deer hunters

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Writer: Steve Byrns, 325-653-4576, s-byrns@tamu.edu

Contact: Dr. John Tomecek, 325-650-3520, john.tomecek@ag.tamu.edu

Dr. Cat Barr, 979-845-3414, acbarr@tvmdl.tamu.edu

THRALL – Concerns over corn tainted with Fusarium fungi, which can produce Fumonisin, continue to flow into Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialists’ offices, but with the main deer hunting season only days away, the calls are increasingly from concerned hunters feeding corn to deer and less from corn producers, said agency experts.

“Shelled corn is the traditional ‘go-to feed’ in Texas for deer, so it’s understandable there would be concerns considering how much of it is fed to wildlife,” said Dr. John Tomecek, AgriLife Extension wildlife specialist at Thrall, who also serves West Texas.

Worries over tainted corn have experts fielding questions as hunting season arrives. Wild turkey gather under a feeder full of corn in this typical West Texas scene. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Steve Byrns)

Tomecek said it’s best for hunters to be aware of the problem and know what they are buying, but not to be overly concerned.

“I think what is important to remember when we feed corn to free ranging deer, is chances are we aren’t providing much more than a treat to these animals in the greater scheme of their diets,” Tomecek said. “Granted, corn helps provide energy during cooler months and is a great bait for hunting success, but it really doesn’t make up a high percentage of most deer diets.”

Dr. Cat Barr, veterinary toxicologist with the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory at College Station, had similar thoughts.

She said the upper limit for deer feeding on Fumonisin-tainted corn should be no more than 30 parts per million and should be no more than half their diet. These rates are limits set for confined breeding cattle, a scenario not likely to occur in free-ranging deer.

“Even if the corn kernels themselves are nearing the recommended toxin ceiling, the deer are diluting it with all the greenery they’re eating as well,” she said.

Tomecek said the excellent growing conditions most of the state has enjoyed this year resulting in this greenery is another strong reason for lesser concern. Aside from its diluting effect, the lush growth tends to limit corn-feeder visits by wildlife.

As far as a human health threat from consuming Fumonisin-eating game, Barr said studies of ducks, turkeys and pigs showed no measurable Fumonisin B1 levels in muscle tissues when animals were fed up to 20 ppm at 50 percent of the diet, a level unlikely to occur in free-ranging animals during favorable growing conditions.

“As for the effects on game birds, we know these kinds of toxins can have serious adverse effects on birds in general,” Tomecek said. “But again, unlike a domestic poultry production scenario where the birds are confined, wild birds — be they game birds or those frequenting a backyard feeder — are using the corn as only a part of their diet, although perhaps at a higher proportion than do deer.

“A concerned hunter can always examine the crops of birds harvested to determine how much of their diet is coming from the corn, but most will find there is a great variety in diets of wild birds.”

Fumonsin toxin is produced when certain Fusarium fungi are present on corn, a condition exacerbated by moisture during seed development, Tomecek said.

“The good news about Fumonisin is that Fusarium molds don’t grow in storage, the way Aflatoxin-producing molds can, “ Barr said, “so at least the amount of Fumonisin in the corn is not going to increase, regardless of changes in temperature or moisture. Just keep in mind that some corn may contain both mold types.”

“An Aflatoxin problem can increase inside metal feeders where corn heats and cools at a different rate than the outside air, so condensation forms inside,” Tomecek said. “We see this pretty frequently any time of year where dew or condensation forms on vehicles and such things as metal fence posts and uninsulated tin roofs. Typically, this problem is minor, especially in mostly dry West Texas, but when it does occur clots of dust from corn or other feeds may form and toxins can grow in this environment.

“I recommend cleaning feeders before and after the hunting season, or when it’s convenient at some point during the year. Letting them run low or out, then refilling them with tested corn devoid of toxins should keep your animals coming, while keeping the feed and your investment in that feed, protected.”

Tomecek said corn shouldn’t be feared and is an excellent and cost-effective feed for wildlife, but he does recommend knowing the product and how it should be handled.

“I don’t think folks should shift away from corn entirely,” he said. “But these outbreaks are good reminders to hunters of the importance of proper feed and feeder management; namely to buy quality corn and ask your supplier if they have test results. Ask when the corn was tested and how it has been stored since that date.”

Tomecek said not all corn storage is created equal, especially in productive years, as the grain may have been left outside and is of lower quality, hence lower in price.

“The main take-home points are to purchase a quality product, store it in dry containers and clean your feeders. Do these things and you’ll have no worries.”

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Texas Crop and Weather Report – Oct. 24, 2017

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Deer season expected to provide good opportunities for hunters

SAN ANGELO – The general hunting season for white-tailed deer opens Nov. 4, and Texas hunters should expect good opportunities in the field, according to a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service specialist.

Dr. John Tomecek, AgriLife Extension assistant professor and wildlife specialist, San Angelo, said good weather conditions have provided good forage and cover for deer.

The quality of this year’s white-tail deer crop is expected to be very good because of good rain and browse availability. (Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service photo by Dr. Jim Cathey)

“The deer we’re seeing are healthy, and the bucks have good antlers,” he said. “There were a few places around the state that dried out early in the summer, but the common complaint I am hearing is that everything is so green that the deer don’t care about the corn, so they’re not coming to the feeders.”

Hunting is a multi-billion industry for the state, Tomecek said. Deer leases and hunting provides a critical source of income for rural landowners, ranchers and communities.

“You have communities that may have one diner and a few businesses, and once deer season starts, those diners are full of hunters,” he said. “Those businesses rely on that money. It’s the same for landowners. We have a lot of landowners who might have a bad year with their agricultural ventures, but then their hunting lease payments come in.”

As opening day nears, Tomecek said signs indicate 2017 will be a good year. He suggests checking Texas Parks and Wildlife hunting rules and regulations in the area where hunting before going afield.

Tomecek said deer movement is increasing as daylight hours shorten, which activates the rut, and temperatures cool.

“Animals are starting to move, and a good cold spell or freeze may reduce the available forage and push deer to corn,” he said.

Tomecek said there appeared to be a good yearling crop and that conditions provided good forage and cover for does and fawns during a critical time.

“Those mothers need good food sources or their bodies may tell them it’s not a good time to go into estrus,” he said. “But once you have healthy fawns on the ground, they need good cover to help them avoid predation by coyotes, wild pigs and other predators.

Tomecek said hunters typically take younger deer, but that it’s preferred hunters take deer 3-5 years in age.

“We like to see hunters take full-bodied, muscled bucks that aren’t going to get any better,” he said. “They’ve done their part in reproduction and we like to see them taken before their bodies begin to decline.”

Tomecek said there are some lingering issues hunters in certain areas of the state should be aware of. Hunters in the southernmost parts of Texas, around the Rio Grande Valley, should be aware of quarantine areas where health officials continue to monitor for cattle fever ticks.

“You can harvest animals,” he said. “They’re safe, but remember that state inspectors will want to inspect that carcass or cape for ticks to prevent them from being transported to other parts of the state,” he said. “It’s a simple inspection that only takes a few minutes. You just want to contact the Texas Animal Health Commission and have them look at it before you leave if you’re in one of those quarantine areas.”

Tomecek said he encourages all Texans to participate in hunting, and to share the experience with youth hunters.

“That’s the fun part, the getting out in the field with friends and family and creating generational memories,” he said.

AgriLife Extension district reporters compiled the following summaries:

The 12 Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Districts

CENTRAL: Dry conditions dominated the area, and rain was severely needed. Oat and wheat planting stopped in some areas due to lack of moisture. Armyworms were seen in large numbers on small grain fields and Coastal Bermuda grass fields. Farmers sprayed for armyworms on emerged fields. Cotton harvest was winding down, and harvested cotton wasbeing ginned. Ryegrass was planted or over-seeded on pastureland. Cattle remained in good body condition and doing okay on native and improved pastures. Supplemental feeding started. Overall, livestock were in super condition. Sale barns were unusually busy with buyers and sellers. Stock tank levels were declining. Most counties reported good soil moisture. Overall crop, rangeland and pasture conditions were good in most counties.

ROLLING PLAINS: Fall armyworms continued to be a serious problem and were causing some losses. Several fields needed to be replanted. Cotton was close to harvest. A low percentage of cotton was prepped and could be ready for harvest soon. Most acres of cotton were slightly behind and needed heat units and delayed frost for best yields. Peanut harvest was going better since producers could get in the fields. Livestock are in good condition. Counties that received moisture reported good rangeland and pasture conditions. One county reported cattle were on supplemental feed due to inadequate pasture conditions. Cooler temperatures set in during nights but remained high during the day.

COASTAL BEND: Cotton gins were still running at full capacity, and some gins took in more cotton from areas affected by Hurricane Harvey. Field work continued with cotton stalk destruction and some producers were already sampling fields for soil tests. Fall armyworms continued to be a problem in forages. Huisache and Macartney rose treatments were made on pastures and rangeland. Livestock were in good shape with many ranchers marketing calves through local auction with large numbers reported. Pasture conditions remained good in most areas.

EAST: A cold front swept the area and brought much-needed rain to several counties. Harrison County was added to the burn ban list. In Anderson County, a wildfire was reported due to the dry conditions. Jasper County conditions were drier than normal since Hurricane Harvey. Anderson County producers tried to finish mowing and baling hay. Gregg County grasses all but stopped growing, and Marion and Upshur counties reported grasses were getting short. Wood County noted some producers planted winter pastures ahead of the cold front, hoping to get enough moisture for germination. Pasture and rangeland conditions across the area were mostly poor, but Anderson, Marion, Upshur, and Wood counties reported good conditions. In Anderson County, 80 percent of the winter wheat was planted with 30 percent emerged. Anderson County also reported cotton was defoliated, and the bolls were 90 percent opened. Cool-season vegetables were looking good in Anderson and Marion counties. Subsoil and topsoil conditions across the area were short, while Anderson and San Augustine counties both reported adequate conditions. Most counties reported livestock were in good condition and cattle prices were holding steady. Anderson County reported producers were supplementing with protein, and Gregg County reported producers were feeding hay. Marion County cattle started to calve. In Anderson and Henderson counties wild pig activity was on the risewhile activity was down in Gregg and Upshur counties. Harrison County reported large numbers of calf deaths due to coyote activity and deer were spotted in the middle of the day foraging. Henderson County noted fly numbers were high and horn flies were still a major issue in Houston County.

SOUTH PLAINS: Subsoil and topsoil moisture levels were beginning to dry out. Defoliant was applied on cotton and harvest was underway. A lot of cotton was expected to be stripped over the next few weeks. Pest problems were nonexistent. Corn and peanut harvests continued. Sorghum and sunflowers continued to finish out. Winter wheat continued to mature. Pastures and rangelands remained in fair to good condition. Cattle were in good condition.

PANHANDLE: Near-normal temperatures were reported. Soil moisture was adequate in most areas. Deaf Smith County producers were in full harvest mode in corn, grain sorghum and sunflower fields. Corn harvest was coming along, but some problems with mycotoxins were reported in some loads of food corn headed to local elevators. Sorghum for seed crops were being harvested after corn harvesting was complete. The cotton crop was holding on with some producers starting to apply boll openers to their crop. Winter wheat was at all stages with some earlier plantings ready for cattle, and producers were just starting to put seed in the ground on other fields. Hall County cotton continued to mature with warm days. Harvest was underway in peanuts and cotton there. Mycotoxins in corn were being monitored with most fields reporting elevated but acceptable levels of fumonisin. Cattle and pastures looked good. Wheat planting was nearing completion with excellent moisture conditions. Randall County producers were in the field every day this reporting period. Harvest was in full swing. Corn harvest was active with fields averaging around 160 bushels per acre. Cotton harvest was just now underway, so no yield reports were available. Sorghum harvest was expected to be underway within the next 10 days.

NORTH: Temperatures started dropping to mid-to-upper 40s in the morning hours. Weekend rain relieved moisture stress for winter pastures. Several counties reported up to 3 inches of rain. Topsoil and subsoil moisture levels ranged from mostly short to adequate, with some counties reporting very short. Cotton harvest continued with about 50-60 percent of the crop harvested. Reports indicated the crop was very good with some fields yielding two bales per acre. Wheat planting was slow as many farmers were waiting for soil moisture. Hay producers were still in the field baling last cuttings. Hay supplies were very good, but quality was not as good. Many cattle producers were weaning calves and working cows. Many stocker cattle producers needed rain on planted winter annual pastures. A cool front helped relieve some livestock stress and slowed fly development. Wild pig activity was moderate.

FAR WEST: Temperature highs were in the 90s, and lows were in the 40s. Rain amounts ranged from a tenth of an inch to 1.5 inches for the reporting period. Cotton harvest moved into high gear as everyone in the far western part of the region was running hard and working long hours. Several days were very humid and harvest work did not begin until around noon, but producers were able to run until late into the night. Yields on dryland fields were not as good as most producers wanted. Producers were just getting into irrigated fields. Fall armyworm activity was very high in most wheat and small grain fields and in some alfalfa. Producers were encouraged to scout and make applications if needed. Pastures were looking better, but there were still areas not recovered from drought conditions. Mosquitos and weeds were a problem around structures where runoff water amounts were higher. High weeds could be a fire hazard after frost. Pawnee pecan harvest started, but no production assessments were reported. Producers continued to feed wildlife and livestock.

WEST CENTRAL: Temperatures were seasonable with warm days and cool nights. Some areas reported a few scattered showers, but nothing significant. Dry conditions continued and all areas needed rainfall. A light frost was noted in some areas. Stock tank water levels continued to drop. Field preparations and planting continued. Armyworms were a problem in all areas. Many wheat fields were destroyed by armyworms and were replanted. Producers started applying pesticides to control them. Cotton fields were progressing with a large percentage showing open bolls. Cotton fields were defoliated in preparation for harvest. Some cotton harvest was underway and should be in full swing in the next few weeks. Rangelands and pastures were doing very well going into the fall season. Conditions continued to look good, with good vegetation available for livestock and wildlife. Growth of forages and grasses slowed some. Livestock remained in fair to good condition. Respiratory problems were emerging in livestock in a few areas. Cattle prices were down some. Pecan harvest was underway.

SOUTHEAST: Conditions were dry in Walker County. Rainfall was needed to maintain good growing conditions and to ensure successful germination and subsequent growth of cool-season forages and crops. Waller County received about 1 inch of rain throughout the county following a cold front. Brazos and Jefferson counties received showers, and Lee County reported up to 2 inches of rain. Cooler weather was forecast and should relieve livestock.

SOUTHWEST: Counties reported slightly lower temperatures in the evenings and mornings, with warm temperatures during the day. No rain was reported for most counties, and signs of stress from lack of moisture were evident. Fall armyworms plagued some fields. Rangeland and pasture conditions remained fair to good. Livestock conditions were good throughout the counties. Fall calving was in full swing, and supplemental feeding began for most livestock producers.

SOUTH: Northern parts of the district reported adequate moisture levels and mild temperatures but no rain. Live Oak County reported scattered showers. Temperatures were around 80 degrees during the day and down to 60 degrees at night in western parts of the district. Peanut harvest was in full swing, but wheat planting stalled due to heavy armyworm infestations. Pasture and rangeland conditions were fair to good with some reporting armyworm damage. Some producers were aggressively treating for armyworms. Supplemental feeding declined in recent weeks. Starr County reported range pastures improved from previous rains.  Body condition scores on cattle remained decent overall. Livestock conditions were starting to drop after 60-90 days of drought conditions in most areas. Cull cows were marketed with body condition scores from 2-4 with very few in optimal shape. Consequently, prices continued to slip on that class of beef cattle. On the other hand, prices for feeder calves climbed about a nickel per pound in most weight classes. In Zavala County, native rangeland and pastures continued to provide adequate forage for grazing. Pecan harvest was about 15 days out. Cabbage and spinach crops developed well thanks to very cool mornings across the area. Ranchers were planting winter forages for cattle and wildlife. In Hidalgo County, vegetable planting continued, and sugarcane harvest was expected to start soon. Row-crop land was plowed and being prepared for winter moisture and early spring planting.

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New Texas A&M Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building grand opening celebrated at College Station

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Writer: Steve Byrns, 325-653-4576, s-byrns@tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION – Sept. 15 marked the grand opening of the new Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building at 534 John Kimbrough Blvd. on the Texas A&M University West Campus.

Dr. Mark Hussey, vice chancellor and dean of agriculture and life sciences at Texas A&M, College Station, said the $32.5 million building is the fourth to be constructed in the Agriculture and Life Sciences complex, a group of buildings housing staff  “dedicated to feeding our world, protecting our environment, enriching our youth, improving our health and growing our economy.

“In September 1937, the Texas A&M University department of wild game was founded. Eighty years later, we open a state-of-the-art facility to continue eight decades of outstanding teaching, research and Extension outreach,” he said.

Dr. Michael Masser, wildlife and fisheries department head, said the opening will mark the first time all of the department’s faculty, staff and students are together in the same building since the 1970s.

New Texas A&M Wildlife, Fisheries and Ecological Sciences Building opens. (Texas A&M AgriLife Communications photo by John Chivvis)

“The building will bring more collegiality, cohesiveness and collaboration to the department,” Masser said. “The new building represents a major investment in our department and the ecological sciences department and will provide opportunities for increased research and the opportunity to attract new faculty and students because of the greatly enhanced facility.”

Dr. Kathleen Kavanagh, ecological sciences department head, said about one-third of her faculty will be located in the new building. They will gain high-end computing facilities for research and teaching, as well as four new labs for studies on global water modeling, wetland ecology, remote sensing, climate change biology and paleobiogeography.

The facility, Hussey said, includes two floors of state-of-the-art laboratories and 80,000 total square feet of space.

“Like the other buildings in the complex, it is built to LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)  silver standards. The building also connects to our rainwater capture system, which underscores our commitment to sustainability.

“A building constructed with sustainability in mind is a perfect home to two departments that work on the broad spectrum of environmental, ecology, wildlife and rangeland issues.”

Hussey said the wildlife and fisheries department combined program is the largest in the U.S. Additionally, the impact of the ecosystem science and management department is felt throughout the state with its faculty educating some 9,000 citizens at a number of educational events over the past year.

“This building gets us even closer to our ultimate goal of moving our departments together onto the West Campus,” Hussey said. “But what makes these buildings special is that they serve as a central home for one of Texas A&M’s founding colleges, the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, and as a statewide hub for our agricultural agencies, the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and Texas A&M AgriLife Research, whose 5,000 employees touch the lives of Texans daily. We live the land grant mission of close integration of teaching, research, Extension and service – and this complex is a commitment to continue that legacy into the future.”

The formal festivities ended with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony followed by a tour of the facility.