For ranchers in most parts of the state the 2013-2014 drought is shaping up to be one of the most serious forage situation in memory. As an example, forage data at UC SFREC showed that dryland range at the Center only produced about 40 pounds per acre through fall and the end of December.

On average, forage production during this period should be around 500 pounds per acre so we have over 10 times less feed than we normally should.

In response to these serious forage conditions, the University of California Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center, in cooperation with UCCE Advisors, UC Davis faculty and industry partners, are putting the final touches on the January 29th meeting that will discuss practical tools and strategies for reducing drought impacts on ranching enterprises.

Drought management and mitigation is a complex topic and this day-long event takes a comprehensive look at a range of linked issues including making the most of what you have on dryland and irrigated pasture, the economics and nutritional aspects of supplementation, animal health and making culling decisions, tax, NAP and insurance. Registration is close to capacity but will remain open until capacity is reached. For those that cannot attend in person, the program will be broadcast on the web.  You can register to attend (here) and see the updated agenda (here).

With the worsening drought conditions the University of California Sierra Foothills Research and Extension Center, in cooperation with UCCE Advisors, UC Davis faculty and industry partners, have organized a meeting on January 29th entitled “Mitigating Drought - Optimizing Pasture and Supplemental Feed and Managing Risk”.  The meeting is designed to provide ranchers with information to assist them managing their beef cattle herd during periods of low feed supply.  The meeting will be held at the UC Sierra Foothill Research & Extension Center in Browns Valley.  To view the agenda for the event click here. For those that cannot attend, the program will be broadcasted on the web.  To register to attend or register for the webcast go to http://ucanr.org/sites/sfrec/

On November 5^th SFREC held a day-long forum on two of the most serious rangeland weeds confronting the California rangeland community. Over 110 people from a diverse background, experience and interests in these weeds attended this event. For many, it was the first time visiting SFREC and even the first time experiencing what the UC Research and Extension Center had to offer. Some attendees travelled more than 6 hours to get to the Center. 

The forum organized over 20 UC academics, graduate students and cooperators researching medusahead and barb goatgrass management across the state. Given the broad knowledge base and the complex nature of these invasions, SFREC used a “lightening presentation” approach. Each speaker was given 5 minutes to outline their core research findings. This format encouraged presenters and attendees to get to the nuts and bolts of the issues on hand and provide a large amount of time for discussion among attendees.   Each presenter put together a one-page handout that summarized their main points.  This handout can be accessed (here) and a webcast of the day's event will be uploaded (here).  Please contact the SFREC Director Jeremy James if you want additional information about the day.

Excitement is rising amongst rangeland weed managers, researchers, and conservationists as the date approaches for a forum on The Ecology and Management of Medusahead and Barb Goatgrass. Next Tuesday, November 5^th, professionals across California and beyond will unite at the Sierra Foothill Research and Extension Center under a common interest with these rangeland invasive species.

The agenda with information on the specific topics and knowledgeable speakers is available. Staff and researchers associated with UCANR and UCCE will be speaking alongside other various professionals to discuss important topics. Seed dispersal, community dynamics, grazing, prevention, and NRCS programs available are a few of the targeted concepts that will be covered regarding medusahead and barb goatgrass invasions. Field visits and a free lunch are additional compelling components of the day.

Around 100 people are expected to attend. Jeremy James, Director of the Sierra Foothill Research & Extension Center, and Elise Gornish, UC Davis Plant Sciences Postdoc, among others, have been focusing their efforts on planning and organizing this regional educational effort.