Alabama’s water resources are important for economic growth and sustainability and for quality of life. The rivers, lakes, and streams in the state help to: sustain communities provide support for industries and jobs generate power irrigate crops provide critical transportation…
Calibrating Irrigation Systems
Follow these irrigation steps to estimate how much water your irrigation system is applying. With wind conditions calm (you cannot feel a perceptible breeze on your face) turn on sprinklers for 15 minutes, recording the time of this operational test. …
Watering Efficiency and Practices
Even though watering restrictions are not yet commonplace throughout Alabama, homeowners should still take measures not to overwater. Overwatering does more than deplete the water supply; it also makes plants prone to pests and adds to stormwater runoff, which pollutes…
Watering Tips
As with any system, it is important to avoid runoff when irrigating or watering. Proper irrigation installation and design will ensure that each plant receives sufficient water. Reduce the Need for Watering. Choose water-efficient and drought-tolerant plants, including those native to…
Rain Barrels and Cisterns
Rain barrels and cisterns are ancient technologies that are making a comeback as water shortages prompt homeowners to save and use rain that falls on their properties. Large, plastic rain barrels are now available at home and garden stores on…
Dealing with Shoreline Growth
Although it is not an issue during the time of drought, terrestrial plant growth on the newly exposed shoreline sediments of a pond during the time of drought will impact management once rains return. Some species more adapted to aquatic…
Lesser Cornstalk Borer Numbers High in Dry Summers
Lesser cornstalk borers (LCB) are soil pests that like dry weather, making them a classic indicator of drought. LCBs prefer various legumes, including peanuts and soybeans. In peanuts, LCB damage can cause crop contamination from webbing and direct yield loss…
Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage Insurance
Brittney Goodrich, an Alabama Extension specialist and member of the farm and agribusiness management team, discusses pasture, rangeland, and forage insurance (PRF). PRF is an insurance product offered nationwide by the USDA Risk Management Agency. This insures against low rainfall…
Drought May Cause Leaf Drop on Trees and Shrubs
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – More than 80 percent of Alabama is suffering some level of drought. Homeowners are wondering how these conditions are affecting their trees and shrubs. Kerry Smith, with Alabama Extension’s Home Grounds team, said that although trees…
Calculating the Energy Requirements of Brood Cows in Cold Weather
How much do the energy requirements of cows increase during the cold weather? This depends on the magnitude of the cold, and if it occurs under dry or wet conditions. See the calculations below. Under cold, dry conditions: Lower critical temperature…