Watering During Current Drought From Master Gardener David Wall
As global warming continues to increase (yes, global warming is real),
our summers are becoming unreal. Summers are drought times, with the
only question being when in May or June are rains going to cease until
sometime in September. Temperatures get into the hundreds and stay there
for longer periods. Pollen hardens, and pollination becomes difficult if
not impossible, all of which combine to cause vegetable plants to either
greatly reduce or totally cease fruit production, waiting for cooler
weather in mid to late September.
Temperatures at 104° under bright sun can easily raise soil temperatures
anywhere from 150° to 160° and beyond, quickly drying out the soil, even
if you’ve just watered. Plant roots near the surface don’t last very
long under such conditions. It’s so bad this year, our okra plants which
were 10’ tall last year stopped growing a 6’ this year and pod
production is only 20% of last year, this from plants that love heat.
With the heat and drought conditions this summer, drip irrigation is not
the answer. It tends to cause wet spots and drain water away from areas
that really need it. A spray system gets better coverage. Also, forget
the myth and don’t buy into the argument that moisture on the leaves
leads to disease, particularly if you’re into organic gardening. Just
use a sprayer. Drip systems might save some water, but if the plants
die, what have you accomplished? Right now, we’re more interested in
plant survival and present/future fruit production.
Normally, for lawn and garden, you weekly put down an inch of water
slowly, taking 15-30 minutes to do so. In this heat, add at least
another inch and water considerably faster. Even more waterings, such as
multiple waterings per week won’t hurt. I’m watering 5-6 times per week.
Steven Lynn Culbertson Arrested, Charged with Indecency
September 4, 2023 – STEVEN LYNN CULBERTSON, age 66, was arrested over the Labor Day weekend. He is charged with three counts of Indecency with a Child Sexual Contact.
His bond is set at $225,000.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
Paris District Road Report for week of September 4, 2023
Paris — Here’s a look at work planned in the district for the week starting Sept. 4, 2023. These schedules are subject to change due to weather conditions, equipment failure or other unforeseen issues. Motorists are advised to remain alert and pay special attention to all signs, barricades and traffic controls, and reduce their speed as they approach and travel through work zones. They should also avoid distractions such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or car audio or navigation systems.
Sherman Area (Fannin, Grayson Counties)
Contacts: Sherman Area Office (903) 892-6529; Grayson Co. Maintenance (903) 893-8831; Fannin Co. Maintenance (903) 583-7566.
US 75, Grayson County: from FM 1417 to SH 91 (Texoma Parkway). Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between SH 91 and FM 1417 as crews work on building new main lanes, bridges, and retaining walls. Watch for lane closures on the frontage roads between FM 1417 and SH 91. A reduced speed limit of 60 mph on the US 75 mainlanes has been set on the mainlanes for this construction project.
Mainlane traffic has been switched from the old mainlanes to the existing frontage roads to allow for construction of the new mainlanes and bridges between South Travis Street and Center Street. During this operation, northbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street and transition back to the existing mainlanes at Middleton Street. Southbound US 75 mainlane traffic will shift onto the existing frontage road approximately one-half mile north of Park Avenue and transition back to existing mainlanes approximately one-half mile north of South Travis Street. This operation will allow for reconstruction of the proposed US 75 mainlanes and bridges at Post Oak Creek. During this phase, US 75 frontage road traffic will be reduced to a single travel lane while US 75 mainlane traffic will maintain two travel lanes. Both mainlane and frontage road traffic will be separated by concrete barriers.
All eastbound and westbound lanes of Park Avenue under US 75 are closed to traffic. This closure is necessary to allow for construction of the new overpass at Park Avenue. To detour, eastbound Park Avenue traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on South Travis Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue. Westbound traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Center Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to Park Avenue.
Lamar Street and Houston Street under US 75 are closed to through traffic with detour signs in place to guide motorists around these intersections.
Eastbound Lamar Street traffic will turn right on the southbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Center Street, and turn left on the northbound US 75 frontage road to return to eastbound Lamar Street. Video animation of this detour can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/5LrCpdOA8OQ
Westbound Houston Street traffic will turn right on the northbound US 75 frontage road, turn left on Washington Street, and turn left on the southbound US 75 frontage road to return to westbound Houston Street. Video animation of this detour can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/7jCatnI3Oq4
These switches will allow crews to reconstruct the proposed US 75 mainlanes and the bridge over Lamar and Houston Streets. The US 75 northbound frontage road traffic is reduced to one travel lane, but two travel lanes remain for northbound US 75 mainlane traffic. A concrete barrier separates the northbound frontage road and mainlane traffic. Video animation of this alignment can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/y_uO0UmpCzk
For southbound US 75 the frontage road traffic is reduced to one travel lane, but two travel lanes remain for southbound US 75 mainlane traffic. A concrete barrier separates the southbound frontage road and mainlane traffic. Video animation of this alignment can be seen at the following link.
https://youtu.be/k2EG2W9rFJY
US 75, Grayson County: at the US 82 intersection. Watch for shoulder closures on the northbound and southbound US 75 main lanes between South Loy Lake Road and Lamberth Street as crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for shoulder closures and lane shifts on the eastbound and westbound US 82 main lanes between FM 131 and Loy Lake Road while crews work on building new exit and entrance ramps. Watch for lane closures and lane shifts for the frontage roads at the US 75 and US 82 intersection as crews work on construction of new frontage road lanes.
The eastbound entrance ramp to US 82 at the US 75 intersection is closed to traffic. This ramp serves as the entrance ramp to eastbound US 82 at US 75. This closure is needed to complete the construction of the US 82 eastbound frontage road and new entrance ramp. Motorists are advised to use the eastbound frontage road and continue east through the Loy Lake intersection and use the eastbound entrance ramp from Loy Lake Road to gain access to US 82.
FM 1417, Grayson County: from US 82 to SH 56. Watch for lane shifts and shoulder closures between US 82 and SH 56 while crews construct the new roadway pavement. The ultimate roadway will be a four-lane divided section with turn lanes. A reduced speed limit of 45 mph has been set for this construction project.
Taylor Street Bridge over US 75, Grayson County: in Sherman at the Taylor Street bridge over US 75 between the US 75 frontage roads. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews perform bridge maintenance work on the bridge.
FM 121, Grayson County: from Main Street in Van Alstyne to SH 160. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 11, Grayson County: from FM 697 in Sherman to US 69 in Whitewright. Watch for daytime lane closures as workers mill and then overlay the roadway with a hot-mix surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Park Road 20 in Eisenhower State Park, Grayson County. Watch for daytime lane closures within Eisenhower State Park as workers perform base repairs on the roadway and then overlay the roadway with a hot-mix surface. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 82, Grayson County: from the Cooke County line to FM 131 in Sherman. Watch for lane closures as workers replace the bridge railing and guardrail approaches at each bridge structure and install median barrier. During construction, the bridge location will be reduced to one lane while crews replace the bridge railing. Currently the contractor is working on the westbound US 82 lanes at Harris Creek and on the eastbound lanes at Post Oak Creek. On this project, the contractor is also installing a center median concrete traffic barrier between FM 1417 and FM 131. Motorists should expect lane closures and occasional lane closures while this work is ongoing.
US 75 full depth concrete repair, Grayson County: Crews will be working on US 75 each week from Sunday night through Friday morning during the overnight period. Lane closures will be present at night for crews to replace failed concrete sections. Lane closures will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night and should be reopened to traffic by 6 a.m. This work will extend from the Collin-Grayson County line to the Oklahoma State line.
FS 121 (Grayson Parkway), Grayson County: from the Collin County line to FM 121. Farm Spur 121 (Grayson Parkway) opened to traffic on Sept. 1. This roadway is a new two-lane roadway that connects FM 121 to the frontage road of the Dallas North Tollway in Collin County. Motorists should expect occasional lane closures and shoulder closures as workers complete punch list items.
US 75 debris pickup, Grayson County: from Collin County line to Oklahoma State line. Watch for mobile lane closures as workers pick up debris from the roadway every Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday during the nighttime.
FM 901, Grayson County: from FM 902 to SH 56. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform base repairs and blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
US 75, Grayson County: in Van Alstyne from FM 121 to the County Line Road. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews backfill the pavement and grade the ditches. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 100, Fannin County: from SH 56 to FM 2216. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 271, Fannin County: from SH 78 to FM 68. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work to rehabilitate and widen the roadway. Motorists should expect delays as signals and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
SH 34, Fannin County: from FM 64 to FM 1550. Watch for traffic shifts and traffic-signal-controlled lane closures as workers build the bridge approaches for the new SH 34 roadway at the future Lake Ralph Hall.
FM 1550, Fannin County: from SH 34 to CR 3544. Watch for daytime lane closures as crews work on building the connection of the realigned FM 1550 to the existing roadway. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Recreation Road 3, Fannin County: from FM 273 to CR 2610. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews blade level the roadway with hotmix. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
FM 273, Fannin County: from SH 78 to FM 1396. Watch for daytime lane closures as maintenance crews perform bridge repairs. Motorists should expect delays as flaggers and pilot cars direct traffic through the work zone.
Sulphur Springs Area (Hopkins, Franklin Counties):
Contacts: Sulphur Springs Area Office (903) 885-9514; Franklin Co. Maintenance (903) 537-4976; Hopkins Co. Maintenance (903) 885-4031.
I-30, Franklin County: from SH 37 to County Road 3050. Watch for single lane closures and delays as crews perform pavement widening for truck parking area.
Paris Area (Delta, Lamar, Red River Counties)
Contacts: Paris Area Office (903) 784-1357; Delta Co. Maintenance (903) 395-2139; Lamar Co. Maintenance (903) 785-4468; Red River Co. Maintenance (903) 427-3561.
SH 37, Red River County: from US 82 to Texas-Oklahoma state line. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews perform bridge maintenance.
FM 38, Lamar County: from US 82 to US 82. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews improve drainage structures and upgrade bridge rail and metal-beam guard fence.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from FM 1497 around the north loop to FM 1507. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and drainage structures and perform bridge maintenance.
Loop 286, Lamar County: from US 271 North going west to FM 79. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, crossing closures and merging traffic while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
Loop 286 at FM 79, Lamar County: State Loop 286 westbound exit ramp at FM 79. Watch for ramp closure while crews place a bonded concrete surface and perform asphalt paving operations.
Loop 286 / US 271 South Interchange, Lamar County: from Dawn Drive going south to the North Loop 286 turn around. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures, lane shifts, and traffic merges while crews improve guardrail and perform bridge maintenance.
FM 64, Delta County: from FM 128 to SH 1532. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
FM 2675, Delta County: from Lamar County line to FM 128. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews rehabilitate the existing pavement and improve drainage structures.
BU 271 (North Main Street), Lamar County: from Santa Fe Street to one-quarter mile north of Stone Avenue. Watch for temporary lane closures while crews install sidewalk
US 82, Lamar County: at the FM 1502 intersection. Watch for temporary lane closures, and traffic and lane shifts as crews widen the roadway to install a left-turn lane and improve drainage structures.
Cedar / Church Street (Clarksville, Texas), Red River County: at the intersection of Cedar and Church Street in Clarksville, Texas. Watch for road closure while crews remove and replace the existing bridge.
FM 410, Red River County: From US 82 to FM 3281. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk and improve drainage.
FM 1507 (Jefferson Rd), Lamar County: from SH 19 to 0.8 MI North of Loop 286. Watch for temporary lane and shoulder closures while crews install sidewalk.
SH 24, Lamar & Delta Counties: from the FM 64 intersection to 1,540 feet east of FM 198. Watch for temporary lane closures and lane shifts while crews resurface the roadway and perform bridge rail upgrades.
FM 2068 at E Fork Jernigan Creek, Delta County. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
CR 26320 at Morrison Creek, Lamar County. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
CR 2127 at Scatter Creek, Red River County. Watch for temporary roadway closure and detour while crews replace existing bridge structure.
Greenville Area (Hunt, Rains Counties)
Contacts: Greenville Area Office (903) 455-2363; Hunt Co. Maintenance (903) 455-2303; Rains Co. Maintenance (903) 473-2682.
SH 11: Hunt County (From Culver St to Live Oak). The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. The contractor will begin excavation and saw cutting and pouring curb and gutter and setting forms near University Drive. This project is a traffic calming project and pedestrian improvements on SH 11. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2642: Hunt County (From FM 35 to SH 66): The contractor has set work zone signs and barricades. Excavation work for the detour is ongoing. The contractor has completed culvert extensions for Phase 1A and removed concrete median on the South end of I-30 intersection at westbound service road. The contractor has begun the demolition of median on the north end of I-30 intersection.
SP 302: Hunt County (From SH 34 to FM 499, from FM 499 to I-30, from US 69 to SH 34, from O’Neal Street to US 69). The contractor has placed work zone signs and barricades. Milling and paving operations have finished. Embankment and sidewalk work being completed. Striping of the Spur has been completed. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2946, Rains County (From FM 515 to FM 2795): Contractors have set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Contractor prepared and mobilized to set temporary shoring for box culvert near the end of project. The contractor is performing cross culvert work and culvert extensions at various locations on the project. The contractor has begun base repair work at various locations and subgrade/ shoulder widening. Subgrade work for the first three miles is ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
FM 2649, Hunt County (From I-30 to FM 1567): Contractors have set barricades and work zone traffic signs. Cross culvert work is complete, reworking the roadway, widening and cement treatment to the subgrade, and reworking the roadway base material is ongoing. The contractor has finished placing prime coat on areas near the beginning of the project. Contractor has begun work on the next two miles, flex base, geogrid subgrade widening are ongoing. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
CR 1032, 1031 and 2132 bridge replacement project, Hunt County. The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor has reopened the CR 1032 and CR 2132 bridge. The contractor has begun work CR 1031, they are currently preparing the ROW and preparing to demo the existing bridge. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
IH-30 (From Monte Stratton to FM 1903), Hunt County: Interchange Improvements: The contractor has set barricades and advance warning signs. The contractor will be excavating for IH30 main lanes, watering temp seeding and maintaining erosion control devices. The frontage road speed reduction signs and low-profile traffic barrier on frontage roads have been installed. Please be aware of workers and watch for work zones when traveling in this area.
Maintenance crews for both Hunt and Rains County will be performing various sign and mailbox installations on various roads. Both sections have been working on bridge maintenance projects throughout Hunt and Rains Counties. Herbicide operations are ongoing throughout the counties.
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Brookshire Grocery Co. Celebrates 95th Anniversary
TYLER, Texas, Sept. 1, 2023 – Brookshire Grocery Co. (BGC) will celebrate its 95th anniversary beginning Sept. 1, with special events and offers planned for customers and employee-partners throughout September. At Brookshire’s stores, this will include featured products with a special .95 cents price and additional YourPoints for customers each ad week.
For 95 years, the family-owned and led company has strived to remain true to the strong values of its founder. These include remarkable customer service, clean stores, fresh products and strong community support. Through the years, BGC has grown to become a leading regional grocery retailer with 17,500 employees and more than 205 store locations in four states. Stores operate under the banners of Brookshire’s, Super 1 Foods, Spring Market, FRESH by Brookshire’s and Reasor’s.
BGC was founded by Wood T. Brookshire, along with his wife, Louise, in 1928 with the opening of their first small, 25 x 100-foot store in downtown Tyler, Texas.
“My grandparents were committed to serving their neighbors and community through the grocery business,” said Brad Brookshire, Chairman and CEO. “All these years later, this is still at the core of who we are and how we operate as a company. We are excited to be celebrating our 95th anniversary and look forward to serving customers and communities for many years to come.”
The company will also celebrate and promote National Family Meals Month™, an industry-wide initiative each September to help raise awareness of the benefits of family meals. BGC will also recognize National Truck Drivers Appreciation Week Sept. 10-16, celebrating its professional truck drivers for their vital role and commitment to safety. The company is also commemorating National Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15-Oct. 15. Registration is open at BGCracing.com for Brookshire’s and Super 1 Foods 7th Annual Heroes Run, a benefit race with a half marathon, 5K and Kids 1K, set for Oct. 21 in Bossier City, La.
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Paris Junior College Regents Set Tax Rate
September 1, 2023 – No public comments were received at the Paris Junior College Board of Regents’ budget and tax rate hearing held on August 28, 2023. The Regents adjourned the hearing and opened their regular monthly meeting, approving both a new tax rate and the 2023-2024 budget.
The Regents considered the proposed tax rate of $0.071 per $100 and approved it. They then approved a 2023-2024 Budget of $37,001,700.
In other business, the Regents:
• Authorized the Administration to transfer up to $3 million to the Renewals and Replacements fund at the end of the fiscal year.
• Received a preliminary report on fall enrollment showing that the college was ahead of last year in unduplicated head count.
• Heard a report on licensure rates from the 2021-2022 academic year showing the College’s student passing rates for state licenses and certifications.
• Received the President’s Report giving an update on the PJC Cares faculty initiative. The next step is involving support staff in the project to improve student success rates. An update was also provided on changes for dual credit students mandated by passage of HB 8 in the recent legislative session.
• Accepted the employment report including the promotions/re-assignments of Katie Barnes as Financial Aid Assistant Director, Charle Fox as Adult Education and Family Literacy Career Navigator, and Rob Stanley as Vice President of Academic Instruction; the employment of Jewelry Faculty Ashton Henderson, Student Success Coach/Counselor June Combest-Tyler, Controller Debra Craig, Student Success Coach/Counselor Michelle Doan.
• Also, Adult Education and Family Literacy EL Civics Coordinator Ebru Turanil Lewis, Mathematics Faculty Sarah Morrison, and Speech Faculty Paige Myers; the resignations of Associate Degree Nursing Faculty Dwana Hollidai, Student Success Coach Elizabeth Joslin, and Coordinator of Student Records and Recruiting Norma Wright; and the retirement of Director of Library Services Joe Jackson.
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.
New Popeyes Under Construction
September 1, 2023 – Anyone who is an afficionado of fast food will find favor that construction crews are working feverishly to finalize the latest offerings of deep-fried fowl. Popeye’s was granted a building permit in the amount of $1,141,500 from the city of Sulphur Springs on August 2, 2023 with excavation and foundation work beginning soon after as lack of rain has allowed crews to make quick work of the project. The new location will be located on Shannon Road between the Mockingbird intersection and new McAlister’s restaurant.
Popeyes also known as Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen, Inc. has been on an expansion binge since they announced they would add 200 new stores back in 2022. The chain currently has 2,988 Popeyes locations in the United States. Texas has the most Popeyes locations with 408 restaurants, which is about 14% of all Popeyes locations in the US. An additional 800 locations are located outside of the United States. The company formed in 1972 in New Orleans, Louisiana and headquartered in Miami. It is currently a subsidiary of Toronto Canada based Restaurant Brands International which was a new company formed in 2014 as the result of the merger between Burger King and Canada’s Tim Horton Coffee. The conglomerate also owns the Firehouse Subs chain.
Other types of “Popeyes” fans should not be looking for spinach on the menu of the upcoming restaraunt as the restaurant was NOT named after your favorite cartoon sailor. Nor will they have olive oil on the menu, as you may have to opt for one of their other signature sauces. “Well, blow me down!”
Those looking for employment will soon be able to apply online at Popeyes.com as the new location is listed on their website but the application portal has not yet been activated.
Social Security Recipients Can Expect Another Raise for 2024
September 1, 2023 – Anyone who gets a check from the Social Security Administration (SSA) each month got a hefty raise for 2023 with an average 8.7% increase due to recent inflation. The Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) is calculated each year and the next year’s adjustment is released by SSA sometime in October preceding the next calendar year. This year’s scheduled date for the announcement is October 12, 2023, but experts have calclulated a 3% raise in next year’s benefits. The final amount will have to be determined by the Social Security Administration after September’s data is included in the calculations.
SSA began using Cost of Living Adjustments in 1975, before that time adjustments were set by legislation. The two highest COLAs were 1980 and 1981, when the adjustments were 14.3% and 11.2% respectively. Last year’s 2023 adjustment of 8.7% was the highest increase since 1981 and the third highest since 1975.
Those that receive Supplemental Security Income checks will see about the same increase as Social Security recipients.
Tolley Arrested, Faces Child Sexual Abuse Charges
September 1, 2023 – JAMES DOUGLAS TOLLEY, a resident of Como, was arrested this week. He is charged with:
1 22.021(A)(2)(B) AGG SEXUAL ASSLT CHILD
1 22.011(A)(2) SEXUAL ASSLT CHILD
The alleged events are reported to have occured January 15, 2023. Bond set at $200,000.
If you have an emergency, dial 9-1-1
The Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office is located at 298 Rosemont Sulphur Springs, TX 75482. You can reach them for non-emergency matters at (903) 438-4040.
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.
