Advice For Cattle During Drought by Mario Villarino
Certainly, drought conditions in Texas can significantly impact the cattle industry. During droughts, the availability of water and forage for cattle can become limited, leading to challenges in maintaining the health and productivity of the animals. Ranchers may need to implement strategies such as supplemental feeding, reducing herd size, or relocating cattle to areas with better grazing conditions to mitigate the effects of drought. It’s important for the cattle industry to adapt and prepare for such environmental challenges to ensure the well-being of both the animals and the industry as a whole.
As a beef producer, knowing when to adjust for the lack of rain is critical. Drought is a fact of life on Texas rangelands since “dry” years occur more often than “wet” years. Literally, drought is “normal” whereas years of good rainfall are the exception. Consequently, range managers are always suffering from, getting over, or preparing for drought. However, any predictions of when they will occur and how long they will last are merely speculation. Mismanagement during drought is related to desertification, a departure from a healthy rangeland state.
Rangeland ecosystems depend upon four main ecosystem processes in order to remain healthy. These are a properly functioning water cycle, effective energy capture and transfer, adequate nutrient cycling, and vegetation successional dynamics. If any of these processes are disrupted or fail, ecosystem function is impaired, production is diminished, and ecosystem health is at risk. Drought has been defined as “prolonged dry weather, generally when precipitation is less than 75 percent of the average annual.” There are, however, several kinds of drought depending upon definition and impact. Meteorological drought is the degree of dryness measured in deficits from the “average.” Agricultural drought is the impact of dry weather on crop and forage production. Hydrological drought impacts water supplies (lakes levels, aquifer levels, etc.) Lastly, socioeconomic drought impacts economic and social systems.
Surviving drought requires planning for it. Drought is easily recognized once it has its full impact; however, it’s development begins slowly and can end abruptly when sufficient rainfall occurs. Hence, the critical decisions going into a drought are difficult to make for fear of premature decisions that can affect future income. These decisions should be based upon ranch operation and all levels of the organization – the strategic or top policy makers, the tactical or livestock policy level, and the operational level should be involved in drought planning. The key to successful range management lies in the ability of the manager to predict and/or monitor future and current conditions and make necessary changes. Weather is uncontrollable, but certain aspects are reasonably predictable. A manager who survives a drought in the best possible financial situation with a rangeland capable of growing abundant quality forage can quickly capitalize on good rainfall years. The basic principle then becomes one of protecting the rangeland resources before and during drought years so that faster recovery and higher returns can be realized. As on the region (east Texas) topsoil conditions were short, while subsoil conditions were adequate, and the soil was drying out very quickly. Pasture and rangeland conditions were fair to good. Extreme heat and lack of rain slowed hay production to a crawl, but many producers continued to cut and bale between sporadic rainfall. Pastures were showing signs of drought stress.
Livestock were doing fair to good. Cattle market prices still looked good. Grasshopper infestations were reported in Cherokee and Smith counties. Wild pigs remained an issue for producers and landowners. Having a better scenario than most of the rest of Texas, our range conditions are holding up but the rest of the season has still many hot weather days without rain left. Landowners most adopt a strategy to coupe with the lack of rain in the near future. Being prepared and having a strategy to follow will release stress in your operation and will make the adjustments needed easier to implement.
For more information on this or any other agricultural topic please contact the Hopkins County Extension Office at 903-885-3443 or email me at [email protected].
Cooper Lake State Park Activites for September 2023
Rediscover the Splendor of Nature this September at Cooper Lake State Park!
Cooper, TX— While the Texas sun still produces many days in the 90’s during September, we can feel the promise of fall. Cooper Lake State Park beckons visitors with the fun of early autumn adventures and hands-on learning experiences. This September, immerse yourself in a curated collection of 15 educational and recreational programs, each designed to rekindle your connections with nature and ignite your creative sparks. Join us and find yourself amidst a playground of natural wonders and enriching experiences at Cooper Lake State Park.
Embark on a journey into the mysteries of our local fauna with “Skins and Skulls”. This program dives into the vibrant world of mammals, discovering who’s the fastest or the furriest, and getting an inside look at these incredible creatures that are found in Northeast Texas.
For the curious minds, our “Wildlife Detectives” program invites you to explore the park’s trails, deciphering the signs and tracks left behind by its secretive inhabitants led by Ranger Alicia. Learn to read the forest’s narratives, piecing together stories from subtle clues in nature. If art is your thing, then “Art in the Park” promises to be a delight. This unique program experience celebrates the rich tapestry of Latinx cultures during Hispanic Heritage Month. Draw inspiration from renowned Latinx artists and create your own masterpiece, all while enveloped in nature’s embrace.
The shimmering waters of Cooper Lake invite kids of all ages to our “Kid Fishing” event. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first timer, this is a perfect opportunity to bond with family and friends over a shared love for the outdoors and fishing. Fret not if you’re unprepared, we’ve got fishing poles, bait, and instructions to make this day memorable. Night owls can revel under our vast dark sky canopy of stars with our “Stargazing” program. Experience cosmic wonders, identify constellations, and perhaps catch a glimpse of meteor, or view a planet. We will have telescopes for viewing along with binoculars for this nocturnal adventure. Nature’s skyscrapers take center stage in “Trees, Nature’s High Rise” program. Discover the intricate ecosystems harbored by trees and the myriad of life they support, from the tiniest insect to the most majestic bird, and even us humans.
Children can find their park ranger spirit with “Becoming a Junior Ranger”. Test their mettle, skills, and love for nature as they tackle a series of exciting tasks and challenges that cumulate with an awards ceremony at Park Headquarters!
All programs are free with a valid entrance permit. Cooper Lake State Park is just one of 88 Texas State Parks open and ready to host your next outdoor adventure. Let’s get out there and experience a natural Texas! Happy 100 – Year Anniversary to Texas State Parks!
For more information on this or other events and programs, please visit and like our Facebook pages Cooper Lake State Park – South Sulphur (903-945-5256), and Cooper Lake State Park – Doctor’s Creek (903 395-3100) and visit our Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website.
Doctors Creek Unit
Saturday, September 2 — DC
Skins and Skulls – 9 a.m. Who is the fastest or the furriest? Meet at Pelican Point Day Use Area – Get an inside look at some of the mammals of the park.
Wildlife Detectives – 10:30 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Parking lot. We’ll take a short walk down the Cedar Creek South Loop trail. Explore how to determine the types of animals that may have been here from the signs they leave behind.
Saturday, September 9 – DC
Kid Fishing – 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. Meet at the Bluebonnet Day Use Area. Bring your own fishing gear, no pole, no worries. We have a few fishing poles available to borrow. No experience needed!
Saturday, September 16 – DC
Art in the Park – 10 a.m. Meet at Pelican Point Pavilion – Calling all artists! All art supplies provided. Create a work of art in the style of a famous Latinx Artist. Join us as we celebrate Latinx artists during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Saturday, September 23 — DC
Trees, Nature’s High Rise – meet at Bluebonnet Day Use Area at 9 a.m. Trees as habitats: Learn about the place’s plants, animals, and insects live. Observe signs of plants, insects, and animals eating, sleeping, or hiding in or around trees.
Sunday, September 24 — DC
Roving with the Ranger 10 a.m. – Stop our Ranger in the Pelican Point Day Use Area and find out about the interpretive item they are carrying.
Saturday, September 30 – DC
Becoming a Junior Ranger – 9 a.m. Meet at Headquarters. Do you have what it takes to become a Jr. Ranger? Check your skills and complete the tasks.
South Sulphur Unit
Saturday, September 2 – SS
Skins and Skulls – 1 p.m. Who is the fastest or the furriest? Meet at Heron Harbor Day Use Area – Get an inside look at some of the mammals of the park.
Wildlife Detectives – 3 p.m. Meet at Coyote Run Trail Head. We’ll take a short walk on Coyote Run Trail. Explore how to determine the types of animals that may have been here from the signs they leave behind.
Sunday, September 3 — SS
Roving with the Ranger – 10 a.m. Stop our Ranger in the Heron Harbor Day Use Area and find out about the interpretive item they are carrying.
Saturday, September 9 — SS
Kid Fishing – 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. Meet at the Heron Harbor Fishing Wall. Bring your own fishing gear, no pole, no worries. We have a few fishing poles available to borrow. No experience needed!
Friday, September 15 – SS
Stargazing – 8:30 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff fishing parking lot. We’ll have the telescopes out to view a planet or two. How many constellations can you see tonight? Dress for the weather, bring a lawn chair and binoculars if you have them.
Saturday, September 16 — SS
Art in the Park – 1 p.m. Meet at Gulls Bluff Pavilion – Calling all artists! All art supplies provided. Create a work of art in the style of a famous Latinx Artist. Join us as we celebrate Latinx artists during Hispanic Heritage Month.
Saturday, September 23 – SS
Trees, Nature’s High Rise – meet at the Buggy Whip Equestrian Trail Head at 12 p.m. Trees as habitats: Learn about the place’s plants, animals, and insects live. Observe signs of plants, insects, and animals eating, sleeping, or hiding in or around trees.
Saturday, September 30 – SS
Becoming a Junior Ranger – 11 a.m. Meet at Headquarters. Do you have what it takes to become a Jr. Ranger? Check your skills and complete the tasks.
Big Tex Writes a Doctor’s Note
August 31, 2023 – To combat the problem of coming up with an excuse to take off of work to attend this year’s State Fair of Texas, “Dr.” Big Tex is offering some help by sending your boss a doctor’s note to combat State Fair Fever. His Prescription?: A health dose of fair food, thrilling rides, and general fair fun!
The folks at the State Fair of Texas have taken this tongue-in-cheek campaign even further, by offering a link on the bigtex.com website for Dr. Big Tex to send the note to your boss’ email. Click here for the Doctor’s Note Toolkit.
In a recent press release, the State Fair of Texas released the fun information to get folks ready for the opening day of the State Fair, September 29, 2023. Buy this years tickets at State Fair Tickets.
State Fair of Texas Press Release
Every October, thousands of employees around the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex experience symptoms of insatiable funnel cake cravings and an overwhelming urge to play games under the neon lights of the Midway. But many of these fine folks face the impossible task of finding an excuse to take the day off and live their best life at the State Fair of Texas in Fair Park. Instead of staring longingly out your office window, dreaming of deep-fried everything and the Soap Bubble Circus, there’s now a simple solution: “Dr.” Big Tex is on call to help you out.
Recently earning his totally legitimate medical degree, “Dr.” Big Tex can now provide fairgoers like you with a signed “Doctor’s Note” diagnosing you with a severe case of Fair Fever. Your boss will be so completely charmed by the iconic cowboy’s medical expertise that you’ll surely be allowed the day off to spend riding rides and tasting turkey legs until your condition is cured!
But if that doesn’t work, don’t worry; the Lone Star State’s premier “doctor” has a backup plan to confirm the legitimacy of his doctor’s note. “Dr.” Big Tex will leave you a voicemail offering a prescription for a day of State Fair fun, giving you the ultimate excuse from work.
If you’ve got State Fair Fever and the only cure is more corny dogs, folks can sign up now at BigTex.com/doctorsnote to receive everything they need from Big Tex to take their official State Fair sick day.
Sulphur Springs Emergency Sirens Will Be Tested August 31
August 31, 2023 – Emergency sirens will be tested in Sulphur Springs at noon today by the Sulphur Springs Emergency Management Office.
The test is to gauge the reliability of the emergency warning system and is conducted to find any potential flaws in the system so they can be corrected prior to a real emergency situation. The sirens could be sounded not only for weather warnings such as tornadoes, which are the most common in the area, but also in case of any emergency that could affect the safety and lives of citizens in Sulphur Springs.
Recent tests have shown the emergency sirens to be a ready source of warning in case of emergencies such as tornados or other threats to safety.
This will only be a test.
Dove Hunters Warned About Wildfires
August 30, 2023 – During the upcoming dove hunting season, Texans are urged to help protect the lands and natural resources that we all love by being mindful of activities that may cause a wildfire.
Persistent triple-digit temperatures and minimal rainfall over the past two months have resulted in extremely dry vegetation across the state, which increases the likelihood of dangerous wildfires. Any outdoor activities that create heat or sparks can ignite dry vegetation and wildfire.
“Since mid-June, Texas has been marked by devastating wildfires that have burned more than 75,000 acres,” said Wes Moorehead, Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief. As Texans recreate this hunting season, it is important to remember that your actions can leave a lasting impact, and everyone has a role to play when preventing wildfires.”
Every year, hunters take to Texas lands for the start of dove hunting season. Wildfires caused by vehicles, trailers, ATV/UTVs and other equipment frequently used while hunting and camping are common during the season, which occurs each year from September to January.
This year, conditions are favorable for wildfire ignitions and Texas land management agencies urge everyone to be cautious on hunts, whether it takes place on public or private land.
“We are excited to welcome hunters back to the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas for another successful season. Hunting season is one of the busiest times on the forests and grasslands, and safety is always our primary concern,” said Kimpton Cooper, National Forest and Grasslands in Texas Forest Supervisor. “Combining efforts with our state partners to spread awareness, while encouraging our visitors to follow guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of wildfires during hunting season. Remember, practicing responsible behavior and being vigilant can help preserve the natural environment and ensure everyone’s safety.”
As the upper-level ridge continues over Texas, widespread temperatures will remain in the triple-digits with lower relative humidity values. With little to no improvement in fuel dryness, fire potential is expected to persist for North, Central and East Texas.
“As Texans venture outdoors, it’s important to remember just how dry the vegetation is. It doesn’t take much for an inadvertent spark or carelessness to cause a wildfire,” said Chis Schenk, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Statewide Fire Program Leader. “The high temperatures cause fires to spread rapidly and make it hard for firefighters to work. Please enjoy the outdoors but be careful with fire.”
Nine out of 10 wildfires in Texas are human-caused and everyone can make a difference by taking personal responsibility for their actions. Remain vigilant as drought conditions continue to expand and intensify and be cautious with any activity that may cause a spark.
To avoid accidentally starting a wildfire while dove hunting:
- Avoid driving over and parking on dry grass – the heat from your vehicle can easily ignite the grass.
- Always check with local officials for burn bans or other outdoor burning restrictions. Each county in Texas sets and lifts its own burn bans. View the latest burn ban map here: https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/burnbans/.
- If you are taking a trailer out on your adventures, make sure that the tires are properly inflated, chains will not contact the road and any loose metal will not continually hit anything else, all of which can cause sparks.
- Always be ready to put out a fire should one start. Have a shovel and water with you in camp and have a fire extinguisher with you at all times.
For more information on preventing wildfires this hunting season, please visit https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/HuntingFireSafety/.
Temporary Fossil Park in Ladonia
August 30, 2023 – Along the banks of the North Sulphur River, construction is underway on Lake Ralph Hall which will evenutally cover 12 square miles. The Upper Trinity Regional Water District (UTRWD) is in charge of the project. Construction of the new lake has displaced a fossil park along the shores under a the State Highway 34 bridge, but fossil hunters are still in luck as a temporary park has opened while construction of the reservoir is ongoing. The temporary park is located immediately east of Farm to Market Road 2990, on the north side of the river, just west of the old park site. This temporary fossil park will remain open until construction of Lake Ralph Hall is finished, according to the water district.
A new permanent fossil park can be created downstream of the lake’s dam, UTRWD said. UTRWD and the city of Ladonia “are working to select another spot where fossil hunters can continue to easily access the river bottom after the reservoir is built. By offering access to different locations on the Sulphur River, the park relocation will provide opportunities for additional untapped fossil discoveries,” UTRWD said in a statement on its website.
The fossil park will continue to be a huge draw for tourists looking for prehistoric artifacts washed away by water that removes sediment from the fossil beds. The largest piece recovered so far is a six-foot section of jawbone from a mosasaurus, an “underwater lizard” that used to swim in the region tens of thousands of years ago, back when it was a sea. The jawbone is being kept at the Perot Museum of Science in downtown Dallas.
To find out more information including location and hours of the temporary park, visit the City Of Ladonia’s webpage about the park. Ladonia Temporary Fossil Park
Expert Hands on Training is One of the Many Advantages to Getting an Education From Paris Junior College
WELDING PROJECT
Structural welding student Lane McGraw of Cumby, left, and pipe welding student Harlie Harred of Birthright, center, listen as PJC-Sulphur Springs welding instructor John Plemons shows them the correct weld bead placement on their project.
Paris Junior College — located in Paris, Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Dallas — has been a part of the Lamar County community since 1924.
Paris Junior College offers Associate in Arts, Associate in Science and Associate in Applied Science degrees, as well as Certificates of Proficiency in technical/workforce fields. The college has expanded its academic curriculum through the years to encourage associate degree and university transfer candidates. Since establishing its first vocational program — jewelry and watchmaking in 1942 — the college has been aggressive in adding technical/workforce programs that will benefit students entering the workforce.
The campus of 54 tree-shaded acres includes 20 major buildings and residence halls and provides students a unique and pleasant environment for learning.
Paris Junior College also operates centers in Sulphur Springs, Texas, and in Greenville, Texas.
Vision
To be the educational provider of choice for the region.
Mission
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive community college serving the region’s educational and training needs while strengthening the economic, social and cultural life of our diverse community.
West Texas A&M Will No Longer Require Students To Pay For Textbooks
August 29, 2023 – The president of the Canyon, TX campus announced by letter to students, faculty and staff that the university will be moving to eliminate the need for students to pay for textbooks by the Fall semester starting in 2024. The university is also encouraging faculty to explore how artificial intelligence can be used as a teaching aid.
The purchase of reference books and digital materials like style guides may still be required for courses, but Wendler said many virtual options are available to replace them as well. The university has also agreed provide additional free printing to students who wish to have a physical copy of course materials, Wendler said. Students’ allotment of free pages to print will be increased from 1,500 to 3,000, though students may be able to print more pages if they need them, he said.
The average college textbook in the U.S. is estimated to cost $105.37, and in-state undergraduates at four-year universities pay $1,226 in average a year for required books and supplies, according to the Education Data Initiative.
Wendler acknowledged the transition might be challenging but he said he is hopeful West Texas A&M will be able to eliminate textbook costs by next year’s fall semester. The university will offer more than a dozen workshops this semester to teach faculty and staff how they can use artificial intelligence and other digital tools when developing course materials.
Wendler’s letter also states that the various colleges will provide the funding in case a textbook is required, but no further details were provided on how that will actually work.
Official Rules for the Ribeye Roundup 2023
The 2023 Cattleman’s Classic and Ribeye Roundup will once again serve up steaks on Celebration Plaza this October 7th. The official rules for the cooking teams has been published.
Ticket are on sale now, click here for more details.
Here are some of the rules. You can find the complete list by clicking here.
Remember, this is a public event and good sportsmanship is appreciated. Visit with other cooks, make new friends, promote beef, and have fun.
Let the bragging begin! As a cook team entering the competition, you are agreeing to participate in the public dinner. Teams will be expected to cook steaks for the public dinner. Serving begins at 6:30. Teams should be prepared to cook 20 30 public steaks provided to you by CCRR.
Cook teams may begin setting up at 6:30 a.m. The square will be closed to all traffic at 10 a.m. sharp. All vehicles will be removed from the cook area immediately following setup. The square will be closed to traffic until 10:30pm. (Special parking available behind the First Baptist Church in the East parking lot).
One member of each cook team will attend the Cook’s Meeting located on the South end of the square. Steaks will be submitted in the same location.
No outside meat will be allowed for the competition or for the public steak dinner. Offenders will be immediately disqualified.
Teams are encouraged to prepare samples, hors d’oeuvres, appetizers, etc. as long as it compliments BEEF!
All steaks for the competition will be 14-16 oz. ribeyes, provided by the steak cook off.
Grills are limited to the following gas (propane), wood or charcoal.
Winnsboro Police Department Media Report 08-21-2023 – 08-27-2023
Arrests:
Brassfield, Jerri, 39 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on 8-20-2023 for Possession of Controlled Substance PG 1/1-B>=1G<4G and unlawful carrying weapon.
Harless, Johnny, 58 years of age, of Winnsboro, was arrested on 8-21-2023 on a Texas Parole Violation Warrant.
Hooten, Cody, 20 years of age, of Mineola, was arrested on 8-27-2023 on 3 Winnsboro Municipal Court Warrants.
Calls for Service:
The Winnsboro Police Department responded to a total of 147 calls for service during this reporting period.
Citations:
The Winnsboro Police Department issued 38 citations and 44 warnings during this reporting period.
