The Forage Systems Research Center does a variety of research, including exploring forages and best management practices for beef production.

FSRC showcased that research during its annual Field Day on Tuesday, Sept. 13, in Linneus, bringing in nearly 400 attendees for the event.

Hundley-Whaley Research Center Superintendent Bruce Burdick explains how drones are used in agriculture during the FSRC Field Day on Tuesday, Sept. 13.

Along with forages and beef production, the Field Day included looks at several natural resource topics, including pollinators, fish and water quality.

“We really thought the day went well,” Superintendent David Davis said. “We heard a lot of positive comments and felt like we had a lot of great presentations. We were pleased with how everything went.”

Along with producers and landowners, eight high schools brought nearly 300 students to the Field Day.

“It was great to see the kids on the tours and being active in the conversations,” Davis said. “The advisors from each of the high schools said that our talks were quality and the students were interested in each of them.”

Field Day attendees were able to hear about ways to improve pollinator habitat, how drones are used in agriculture and how FSRC’s weather station works.

“We wanted to change things up a little bit and add a few more topics,” Davis said. “A lot of people think all we do is forage research and beef production research. We wanted to dive into all of the research that we’re conducting.”

FSRC farm worker Aaron Palmer also described his experience with raising fish in a cage culture. Palmer talked about the challenges of fish farming.

Clay Creech, with the Missouri Department of Conservation, talks to attendees of the Forage Systems Research Center Field Day.

“This presentation had quite a bit of interest,” Davis said. “It was one of the draws for our Field Day, and several attendees asked about it when they arrived. A lot of landowners have ponds, so it was interesting to hear about another way to utilize those ponds.

“I thought Aaron did a great job of showing how much work it takes to raise fish in this type of culture. He was honest and gave his personal experience, which is what we want our speakers to do.”

Jeff Sparks, from the Brookfield Veterinary Clinic, is a local vet who showed how to perform cattle ultrasounds. Clay Creech, a conservation agent with the Missouri Department of Conservation, explained how to control pond pests.

“We were happy that Jeff and Clay were able to take time out of their day and speak,” Davis said. “They both brought some new information to our Field Day that we haven’t had before.”

For a closer look at the Forage Systems Research Center Field Day, visit flickr.com/photos/cafnr/albums/72157673772085306.