Note: This site is for reviewing legacy plan of work data from 2007-2011. If you are looking for the current plan of work interface, visit pow.nmsu.edu.
Impact Report
| For plan | Agronomic Crop and Improved Pasture System Development (Valencia County) |
| Date | October 26, 2010, 5:01 pm |
| For Objective | Short-term Show short-term objectives |
| Impact Report | Valencia County commercial agriculture is over 90% small farm operators (less than 10 acres), with the majority of farms in forage crop production. This results in a variety of plant and soil related questions, as well as requests for continuing education units required for NMDA private pesticide applicator license renewal. Forage crop educational programs, clientele interaction including field and office visits, phone calls, workshops, and weed, pest, and disease services account for approximately 20% of the extension agriculture agent’s work load. Additionally numerous tests and services (soil tests, weed and disease identification) were conducted over the past year. As a result, an annual program designated to meet the educational demands of local forage and irrigated pasture producers and managers was developed in 2009. The reports summarize the 2010 (2nd Annual) Valencia County Forage Workshop. Over 75 producers attended the 1 day workshop, with the majority of attendees pleased with the quality of information provided. The program was evaluated using a survey at the end of the day. One program participant stated “I just wanted to thank you and all who organized, donated and spoke at this conference. It was incredibly informative and I learned more than I ever anticipated!” Other similar comments were documented. All program participants consistently ‘agreed or strongly agreed’ they gained significant knowledge in all agronomy topics that could be used to improve their forage crop and/or irrigated pasture operation. Program participants learned of cultural methods to improve their agronomic crop operation, which can directly contribute to improved water management, drought mitigation strategies, higher yields, lower input costs, and the overall productive capability and economic value of their particular crop. Topics included: Weed Identification and Control, Herbicide Usage, Forage Insects, Soil Health, Post-Harvest Management, Alfalfa Production, Annual Crop Production, Livestock Poisoning Plants, and Horse Forages |