This publication provides direction on estimating soil moisture by the "feel and appearance" method; taking a some soil and rolling it up in a ball then squeezing it between your thumb and forefinger to form a ribbon and noting how it appears and feels. Compare what you see with photographs and/or charts to estimate percent water available and the inches depleted below field capacity.
Recycling organic debris for composting and improving soil doesn’t have to be a chore! If hot composting is not for you, try one of these easy cold-composting methods. Each has advantages and disadvantages but the end result is the same: improved garden soil and less organic waste in landfill.
This report includes preliminary data for the second of a three-year study. Since this year was a record drought year, results could vary from a normal rainfall year. Finalized data and observations will be released in future as peer-reviewed studies, reports, and extension articles. For more information, please visit the RDFA project page. .
Douglas-fir trees are dying at a record pace in southwest Oregon. Learn what steps you can take to preserve forest health and improve wildfire resiliency in a warming climate.
Collection of forage resources, mostly for Coastal Oregon regions. Includes studies on fiber digestibility, phosphoric soil, rations, and cost/benefit of growing and buying locally grown forages.
Weeds can lower the quality and quantity of forage in a pasture or hayfield. In general, weeds have lower protein and energy than improved, cool season perennial and annual forages under good grazing management. The palatability...
Timber harvest presents challenges for woodland owners with small acreages. Planning the harvest, working with contractors and selling the logs are tasks that can seem intimidating. Here's how to make a plan, find ...
Poisonous plants are a major cause of economic loss to the livestock industry. Two poisonous plants common to Oregon are poison hemlock and Western water hemlock. Ingestion of either by humans or livestock typically results in death.