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Warm Season Grass Tour Aug. 30 Near Pottersville

WEST PLAINS, Mo. – Warm season grasses are a good way to mitigate drought, provide good quality forage, and offer wildlife habitat. A warm season grass tour will take place from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30 at the McKee Farm near Pottersville for producers who want to discuss this issue.

To reach the McKee Farm, from West Plains, travel out of town on Hwy K., turn Right on Hwy. KK. McKee Farm will be on the right 9 miles out KK.

The programs will focus on native warm-season grasses establishment, pro’s and con’s for this crop, hay production, wildlife considerations, and cost share available. Also, there will be discussion on preparing for the fall/winter following the drought.

“The drought has taken a major toll on beef and dairy farms in the area. Using warm season grasses is one strategy to manage through drought years,” said Sarah Kenyon, an agronomy specialist with University of Missouri Extension based in West Plains. “Producers that use these crops tend to do better during a drought.”

Sarah Kenyon, Tim Schnakenberg, regional agronomy specialist, Randy Wiedmeier, regional livestock specialist, and area Soil and Water Conservation districts, NRCS, and MDC will be on hand for the discussion.

Sandwiches and refreshments will be provided. Please call ahead to ensure enough food is available. Support for this meeting is made possible by MU Extension and the NRCS Grassland Project.

For more information, contact the Howell County Extension office at 417-256-2391.