On November 5^th, 2013, SFREC will bring together UC researchers, land managers, producers and conservation professionals from across the state to explore some of the latest research findings and management strategies on two of the most serious rangeland weeds, medusahead and barb goatgrass. Estimates indicted these invasive species may decrease forage quality and production by up to 70 percent. Additionally, these plants increase the incidence of eye problems, such as pink eye in beef cattle.  Intermountain species like medusahead create significant fuel accumulation - increasing the frequency of dangerous wildfires that destroy both livestock feed and critical wildlife habitat.

The University of California, in cooperation with producers, land managers, and agency partners, have made great strides in researching the ecology and management of these species. This forum takes a timely approach toward synthesizing outcomes of these diverse efforts.  A number of treatments, such as grazing, herbicide application, burning, and seeding, have shown promising results. However, there are risks and challenges that remain when trying to apply these efforts in unique rangeland environments at large scales. Discovering economically compatible techniques that can be molded to meet the financial constraints of producers and other land managers is a crucial investigation. A major aim of this forum is to enhance further discussion and progression towards how we might tailor future research and management efforts to address this challenge.  This free forum is open to everyone. Please pre-register on the SFREC website to receive a detailed agenda and information about the day.

Earlier this week researchers visited the SFREC beef herd to perform the first run of a newly designed assessment method. With growing interest in animal health and welfare, especially in regards to livestock used for human consumption, there is a need for an assessment tool that is consistent, well-designed, and agreeable amongst multiple audiences.

Members of the UC Davis Animal Science Department took on this challenge by proposing a project to develop and administer a cow-calf health and welfare assessment tool that will generate baseline information regarding beef health and handling. Some of the specific details involved with this cutting edge design involve a pre-visit survey that determines components of the operation, animal handling observations, and an animal health assessment.

The assessments are confidential and will be used to generate training materials that producers can then utilize to improve the health and welfare of their herds. The leaders and key individuals involved with this project include Cassandra Tucker of the UCD Department of Animal Science, Bruce Hoar – the Western Institute for Food Safety and Security, and UCD graduate student Gabrielle Simon.

The Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center was the first livestock management system to be assessed through this proposed program. Researchers are currently seeking participation from additional cow-calf operations to test and fine-tune the assessment tool.

Here are a few useful links to additional information and resources about beef health and welfare:

http://www.beefresearch.ca/research/animal-health-welfare.cfm

http://www.nal.usda.gov/awic/pubs/Beef/overview.htm

http://awic.nal.usda.gov/farm-animals/livestock-species/cattle

Head, heart, hands, and health. These four words establish the foundation upon which the nation's largest youth development organization has grown, thrived, and continues to develop inspiring community members.

Last week the Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center was fortunate to host a group of high school-aged 4-H students and adults for a short tour of our facilities. About half of the group was visiting from Wisconsin through an exchange program and noticed the significant difference in landscape and ecosystem types. The other portion of the group members were locals involved with Yuba-Sutter 4-H. We discussed the role of the REC system, focusing on our own Center and why it is important to have research facilities available. Previous projects, such as the Forbes Hill Oak Clearing, were talked about and visually showcased. The tour concluded at the charming Yuba River Education Center, following a short hike on one of our nature trails.

It was a relaxing, educational, and enjoyable interaction with young aspiring minds and devoted adults. The staff at SFREC are looking forward to the next engagement involving 4-Hers or other local youth. Conservation, cooperation, communication, and commitment. These are four concepts that were highlighted that I hope our visitors will remember, practice, and share.

The Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, part of the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resource Division, is a great resource for researchers, educators, agricultural professionals, conservationists–generally anyone interested in conserving and enhancing rangeland ecosystems and the agricultural industries these systems support.

 

 

This blog allows regular updating of key activities at SFREC to the broader agricultural and natural resource community.  Most importantly remember we are here for you!  We value any comments or suggestions you have on our posts and encourage you to contact us with specific questions, blog post suggestions, interest in research, to schedule a tour, or to discuss future events.