Want better pastures? Are you new to managing pastures? New to managing pastures in Northwest Florida? Don’t have pasture yet, but plan to someday?
If any of these sound like you then I encourage you to check out the upcoming series of classes Productive Pastures in the Panhandle.
This four-part series is designed to provide you with solid, research based, regionally specific, foundational knowledge necessary to establish and manage pastures for all kinds of livestock.
Scientific concepts will be put into plain language, seasoned with personal experience, and presented in a way that will be applicable to large and small operations, novice and experienced producers alike.
While the option to watch online is available, the sessions are designed for in-person participation. Each session will have a combination of classroom instruction and hands-on activities.
All sessions will be taught by Mark Mauldin, UF/IFAS Extension, Washington County.
Session 1 (10/5) – Introduction to Pastures and Forages in NW FL
The goal of this session will be to provide attendees with a pragmatic understanding of the limitations and possibilities for forage production in the area and an understanding of available resources.
Session 2 (10/12) – Variety Selection & Establishment Techniques
This session will focus on forage options; where and how various species can/should be used as well as traits of specific forage varieties. Based on the time of year, emphasis will be placed on cool-season forages.
Session 3 (10/26) – Soil Fertility & Weed Management
This session will cover all things fertilizer and key concepts of managing pasture weeds. Bring in your soil sample analysis and specimens of problem weeds to help make the conversation more applicable to your operation.
Session 4 (11/2) – Grazing Management & Fencing
This session will look at the interaction between pastures and grazing animals. Specific grazing strategies and fencing products/techniques will also be examined in detail.
A meal will be provided at each session. All sessions will be from 5:30 – 7:30 central time at the Washington County Agricultural center in Chipley, FL (1424 Jackson Ave.).
Advanced Registration is Required.
Registration Fees:
- $50 for in-person attendance to the entire series (all 4 sessions)
- $20 for in-person attendance to any single session
- $20 for on-line (ZOOM) attendance for all 4 sessions
For questions call 850-638-6180 or email mdm83@ufl.edu.
