Take advantage of programs to improve rangeland

By Kylene Scott

It's awfully easy to sit down in front of the computer when it is cold and dreary outside and see where your fingers can lead you. Why not use some of that time to devise a plan to improve pastures and rangelands? Federal programs and local resources can both be very helpful; just take the time look in the right place.

Importance of a plan In this tough current economic environment, Kansas State University economist Kevin Dhuyvetter said prices are up for corn and for cattle, and that might influence forage prices.

"It is important for landowners to recognize that while the current economic conditions reflect conditions that suggest pasture rental rates likely will increase more than average, rates also may need to decrease if and when conditions go the other direction," Dhuyvetter wrote in his January 2011 update. "For example, if cattle and/or feed prices change significantly in the next 30 to 60 days, producers and landowners may want to 'plug' those values into the model to see how that impacts projected rental rates."

NEWS

CROPS

LIVESTOCK

EDITOR

COLUMNS

MARKETS

RANGE

FAMILY