Testing for soil organic matter helps you monitor soil health over time. Good soil management practices can improve soil organic matter in three to five years.
Dan M. Sullivan, Amber Moore, Linda Brewer |
Aug 2019 |
Extension Catalog publicationPeer reviewed (Orange level)
Buying a small farm requires doing a lot of homework. Is the site suitable for a particular use, and what about water rights, soil quality, easements, zoning and tax status? Here's a look at 10 things to consider.
Whole farm systems are a departure from American industrial agriculture. Whole farming takes into consideration a farming pattern that is based on diversity — biological, economical and social. Here's a guide.
Maud Powell, Nick Andrews, Melissa Matthewson, Shelley Elkovich, Gwendolyn Ellen, Tim Franklin, Don Tipping |
Jul 2016 |
Article
A healthy pasture is a vital resource for a livestock operation, and it requires year-round attention. One of the most critical periods is the fall when decisions dictate how much forage will be produced for the season.
Excessive summer irrigation of oak and madrone trees may promote fungal diseases such as the oak root fungus (aka armillaria root disease) and crown rot.
For farmers and ranchers, belonging to agricultural and ranching associations promotes common interests and fosters connections that are extremely important to the business or pleasure of farming and ranching.
Shelby Filley |
Aug 2019 |
Article
Photo: Oregon State University (Cropped from original)
Poison oak plants contain a chemical that causes a severe rash. Learn how to spot a plant, safely remove, and clean your clothes, gear and skin afterward to prevent a rash.
Silage-making has been used to reduce the concentrations of toxins in a variety of crops. But in the case of poison hemlock, the opposite is true — making silage out of it actually increases one of its toxic alkaloids.
Tansy ragwort, an invasive weed that can harm certain types of livestock, is making a comeback in western Oregon. Find out how to control it and protect your animals.
Shelby Filley, Andy Hulting, Gene Pirelli, Eric Coombs |
Aug 2011 |
Article
Q: The straw mulch I used at the end of summer to suppress the weeds doesn't seem to be working. Should I till it and cover with plastic? black or clear? Is there something better. Or should I add more straw. I could probably bring some cardboard home from work. Is this a healthy option?