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.
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.
Changing weather patterns show that drought will continue to be a challenge for farmers and ranchers on the central and north coast of Oregon and throughout the state. That's why a drought management plan is essential.
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
Photo Credit: Hulsh Of Pictures - Adobe Stock (Cropped from original)
Q: We have wheat planted and along our fence line we have an infestation of tansy ragwort. Is it a good time to cut the flowers off, bag them, and leave the plant; or should I spray it? The neighbor across the road has...