Horticulture; Greenhouse, Nursery & Sod

Producers can download the 2018 Southeastern Vegetable Crop Handbook at tinyurl.com/VegHandbook18. The free handbook is an effort between Extension specialists and researchers from disciplines such as ag engineering, entomology, horticulture, plant pathology, and soil and weed science.

-Mac Higginbotham, divisions director

Hay & Forage

Interested in a free soil and forage sample analysis? Contact a county or regional Extension agent for details on submitting samples for this Alabama Extension special promotion, or email alabamaforages@auburn.edu. Submit samples by Sept. 30. Remember, farming is a gamble, but science improves the odds.

-Nate Jaeger, division director

Poultry

A poultry grower educational seminar is set for May 15 at the National Poultry Technology Center in Auburn. Topics and demonstrations include lighting, hot weather ventilation, evaporative cooling and maintenance. Cost is $20 and includes lunch. Register by May 11 at cvent.com/d/ngq0gf.

-Guy Hall, division director

Wheat & Feed Grain

RaboResearch reports that growers should be alert for marketing opportunities at key time periods, such as planting progress, pollination and yield estimates. Demand is firm, but projected corn acres and current global stocks are declining compared to the past few years. Additional acreage or yield loss will pressure corn prices. There is high risk for market volatility if projected U.S. corn acres remain at current levels.

-Carla Hornady, division director 

Forestry

Alabama Forestry Commission (AFC) firefighters traveled to Oklahoma last month to fight fires. The AFC is a member of the Southeastern Fire Compact, an agreement with 12 other states to provide aid in fighting forest fires. This agreement allows the AFC to send crews out of state or call for support in a wildfire emergency.

-William Green, division director

Peanuts

The National Peanut Board has released “The Peanut Vision.” The website shows how peanuts are one of the most sustainable, nutritious food sources and are positioned to meet the challenges of feeding the growing population. Learn more at peanutvision.org.

-Caleb Bristow, division director