Profitable Livestock Production (Socorro County)

Agent provided a Loco Weed Workshop presented by the Union county agent. The program included identification fo loco weed varieties, history of research on loco weed, bio secruity issues and the use of the emergency response plan. A spraying demonstration was also set, but because of conditions was unable to be performed. Eight individuals attended the program with all individuals indicating that they had more information about loco weed that was wrong than that was actually correct. No formal evaluation was given, but the agent visited with individuals and 100% of them indicated that the infromation was valuable to their operations and they would utilize techniques in their management.

Consulted with producers in various locations about cattle management decisions. Three producers were having cattle losses to poisonous plants, and agent was able to assist in identification of the problem. Losses from these situations are usaully not a recurring problem because producers become aware of the enviromental circumstances that usually cause the losses. Each of these producers were able to minimize the loss of livestock by making the management decision to move cattle out of specified areas of concern.

Agent collaborated with agents from Sierra, Grant and Catron counties, as well as, the Range improvement task force to work with an advisory committee of producers that are being effected by the Wolf Recovery Program. Twenty-six producers were present in informational gathering session. Results were that research data collection sheets were needed for producers to accurately collect and record data, and Infromative brochures needed to be produced for producers not yet affected. A follow up meeting was conducted to provide the advisory committee with the requested information for review. Workshops are being scheduled in counties to work with producers on data collection and wolf kits. As a result, NMSU will be able to assist the ranchers in providing data to agencies in a meaningful way as to help determine management decisions by operating agencies. The goal is to also supply educational material to producers for best procedures to minimize losses by depradation of the wolf.

Short-term
• Increased awareness of novel management practices and knowledge of current issues for more than 10% of New Mexico livestock producers through educational programs, direct communications, and popular press publications.
• Increased the number of producers using technology to evaluate production and financial aspects of cow-calf enterprises through participation in a Standardized performance analysis workshop.
• More than 90% of attendees surveyed at educational workshops perceive the monetary value of education gained exceeded the cost of attendance.

Medium term
• Improve decision-making skills of more than 500 livestock producers and county Extension agents through educational programs and seminars such that they are more confident in livestock management.

Long Term
• Improved knowledge level of county Extension agents regarding management of sheep and beef cattle through in-service trainings in the area of Range Nutrition and Management.

Sixty Michigan Ag Producers toured across the state learning about the agriculture. In Socorro, producers discussed ranching, farming and agritourism. Michigan producers left with an understanding of flood irrigation and public lands. All producers gained an insight to the economics of agriculture in New Mexico.