Cow Talks

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Hannah Baker, a State Specialized Extension Agent in Beef and Forage Economics. Hannah’s background and transition to South Florida’s cattle industry is discussed in conjunction with the importance of pasture rangeland forage insurance (PRF) for cattle producers. Hannah highlights the importance of succession planning and risk management in farming within a new agricultural landscape impacted by current trends in the cattle market and greater global dynamics that affect the Southeast. 

Hannah Baker: https://rcrec-ona.ifas.ufl.edu/about/directory/staff/hannah-baker/

PRF Insurance: https://prfinsurance.caes.uga.edu/ 

In this episode of Cow Talks, hosts Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Chris Prevatt engage with Dr. Brent Sellers and Dr. David Russell to discuss the complexities of weed management in agricultural systems. They explore integrated pest management strategies, the importance of healthy forage stands, and the various sources of weed encroachment. The conversation delves into specific weeds of concern and the challenges posed by hard-to-control species. The experts also highlight the significance of education and resources available for farmers to manage weeds effectively.  

In this episode of Cow Talks, hosts Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Dr. Jose Dubeux dive deep into the world of integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS), featuring guest expert Dr. Pedro Alburquerque from Brazil. Drawing parallels between Florida and southern Brazil's similar climates and agricultural practices, the episode explores the benefits and challenges of ICLS adoption. Listeners will gain insights from both scientific research and practical on-farm experience, understanding how ICLS contributes to soil health, nutrient cycling, and overall farm resilience.   

The discussion tackles common myths surrounding ICLS, such as soil compaction and nutrient export, debunking them with long-term data and real-world examples. The concept of "system fertilization," where nutrient applications are optimized for the entire crop-livestock system, takes center stage. In this episode, we highlight its potential for increasing yields and reducing environmental impact. Tune in to learn how ICLS, fueled by collaboration and trust between farmers, can revolutionize agricultural practices in the Southeast and beyond. 

For more information, visit the UF/IFAS Forage Team website:

https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/forage/

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau converses with Dr. Bill Mahanna, a seasoned expert in corn silage selection. The conversation delves into the critical factors influencing corn selection for silage, emphasizing the importance of agronomy, late season plant health, and the role of data models. Dr. Mahanna addresses common misconceptions about fiber digestibility and the significance of agronomic traits over genetic factors in selecting corn hybrids. Overall, the episode provides valuable guidance for dairy producers and agronomists in optimizing corn silage production. They emphasize the need for timely harvesting and the influence of local knowledge on yield and digestibility. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding environmental conditions and the role of data in making informed decisions for optimal corn silage production. 

UF Hybrid Decision Tool: https://devfel.github.io/forage-hybrid-table/

2025 International Silage Conference: https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/silage/

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau hosts Dr. José Dubeux and Dr. Sheeja George to discuss sustainable agriculture strategies in Florida, focusing on sod-based rotation systems and integrated crop livestock systems. They explore the benefits of these systems, including improved soil health, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. The conversation also addresses the challenges of adoption, such as land tenure issues and outdated policies, while highlighting the opportunities for innovation and collaboration in the agricultural sector. 

To learn more about the integration of crops and livestock in the Southeast, join us at the first SE ICLS symposium in Marianna, Florida, on Jan 31st, 2025. For more information, check the website ICLS Symposium - Forage Team - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS. For more information regarding the Southeast Grazing Exchange, check outthis website. 

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Dr. Rocky Lemus, Mississippi State Extension/Research Professor and Scott Jenkins, Mississippi Dairy Goat Farmer at Cole Ridge Farms.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Henry Jordan, Variety Trial Coordinator at Auburn University and Dr. Cheryl Mackowiak, Associate Professor of Soil and Water Sciences.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Beaver Yoder, North FL Stocker Producer and Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Beaver Yoder, North FL Stocker Producer and Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guest Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management