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Farm and Family

  • 2011 food guidelines and the role of 4-H

    The newly released food guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture indicate a major shift in the recommendations that the agency is making for Americans. An increasing percentage of the population suffers from overweight, poor diet, obesity, forms of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other serious illnesses. The USDA’s revised guidelines are meant to raise awareness of the inherent risks in prevalent American lifestyle choices, characterized by an over-consumption of non-nutrient-dense highly processed foods and a sedentary lifestyle.

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  • Prevent pasture bloat

     Spring brings with it a couple of big changes in a cow’s life.  Most of our momma cows have their calves in the spring and their need for high quality feed goes up greatly.  Luckily, this increased need happens at the same time our vast amount of cool season forages are growing rapidly after their winters nap.  However, there are a couple of potential forage related problems associated with early growth that we as animal caregivers need to be aware of and watch out for.  Grass Tetany and Bloat are the problems. 

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  • Get extra money in your pocket

    In 2011, federal tax credits will mean more for working families than ever before.  As the economy struggles to recover from the recession, many working families can receive valuable federal tax credits.  These credits can help you pay bills and meet your children’s needs in the face of cutbacks at work and unemployment.  Working  individuals and families need to know that help may be available when you file your 2011 tax return.  You also need to know how and where to get assistance.

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  • Exploring different kinds of power

    This month during 4-H, school clubs students in the fourth and fifth grades have been designing balloon racers.  The activity is from the SET project books, which stands for Science, Engineering and Technology.  The idea behind the activity is to get students to explore different sources that could be used for power.  There was a discussion about using solar energy, electricity from wind turbines, electricity and batteries to help offset the use of gasoline in hybrid cars, and air fans that move fan boats across the water.

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  • Millions have it and don’t know it

    In observance of Diabetes Alert Day (March 22), the National Diabetes Education Program and the Henry County Extension Service are encouraging people to take NDEP’s diabetes risk test at: ndep.nih.gov/resources/ResourceDetail.aspx?ResId=252 to find out if you are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

    Nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes. It is estimated that nearly one-third of people with diabetes do not know they have the disease. An estimated 79 million adults are estimated to have pre-diabetes, placing them at increased risk for developing the disease.

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  • Planning forage establishment in 2011

    The past few years have been rough going for forage establishment on many farms. Some springs have been really wet, and some falls have been terribly dry. Let’s hope this year we can get some decent windows of opportunity both spring and fall.

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  • Know your risk for type 2 diabetes

    Anybody can develop diabetes, but some people are more at risk than others.  For example, if you have a family history of diabetes, you are at increased risk for developing the disease, especially if a close family member–mother, father, brother, or sister–has diabetes.

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  • Spring calving season approaches

    The spring calving season should be in full swing now, and top priority for all our cattle producers is firstly to get a live calf and secondly to keep cows in sufficient body condition to rebreed early. Calving areas should be accessible and as clean and free of mud as possible. Pastures which have good sod and are close to handling facilities work best. Dr. Pryor spoke to the Cattleman’s Association last week, mentioning some of these tips and reminders:

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  • 4-H dog club will help you understand dogs

    Joining a 4-H dog club is one of the first steps young dog enthusiasts can take to pursue a greater understanding of their best friend. 4-H dog clubs teach children different disciplines, such as selecting a dog; investigating breeds; appreciating dogs’ places and roles in society; practicing grooming, fitting, showing and training; caring for dogs; and exploring dog-related careers and activities. Youth also practice the life skills of communication, responsibility, planning and organizing, decision making, leadership and more.  

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  • Prescription medication pointers

    According to the American Health Association as many as 60 percent of older adults take prescription medicines improperly. Some prescription drugs can have adverse effects when combined with over-the-counter or other prescription drugs. Reactions sometimes can be severe resulting in illness and even death.

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