Missouri’s array of soils and topography allows producers to grow an extensive list of vegetables, from leafy greens to cucurbits. Springfield farmer Curtis Millsap is one of many producers who benefit from the College of Agriculture’s Agriculture and Environment guidance on commercial horticulture. Since 2003 he and his wife, Sarah, have been working with MU Extension, particularly horticulture specialist Patrick…
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Keeping Consumers Safe
MU Extension and partners offer online training for Midwest produce growers
Produce contamination accounts for an estimated 46% of foodborne illnesses across the United States each year — a serious issue affecting health, the economy and society as a whole. Even in the midst of the current pandemic, safety training for produce farmers is not only vital, but required for many, said MU Extension horticulture field specialist Patrick Byers. To combat contamination issues, the federal…
A Consistent Presence
Eldon Cole has served Missourians through MU Extension for 50-plus years
A lot has changed in the 56 years that Eldon Cole has served as a University of Missouri Extension specialist, but one thing has remained incredibly consistent – Cole’s desire to build relationships with the Missourians he continually serves. While it’s hard to imagine MU Extension in Lawrence County without Cole, his career path nearly looked much different. As a…
Turning Data into Insights
Partnership puts MU at forefront of precision agriculture technology
Working toward earning his Precision Agriculture Technology Certificate from the University of Missouri, Bo Young understands the importance of implementing precision practices on the farm. Young, who is also a climate activation specialist with The Climate Corporation, works with farmers and producers, helping them incorporate Climate FieldView technology in their operation. Young and The Climate Corporation are now partnering with…
Triple Tiger
Jordan Thomas has received all three of his degrees from Mizzou
Like many students with an interest in animals, Jordan Thomas came to the University of Missouri intending to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. When he got more involved with the Division of Animal Sciences, however, Thomas quickly found a new passion – research. That passion, and the stellar faculty and staff in the Division of Animal Sciences, kept Thomas…
Crafting the Perfect Brew
MU Extension horticulturalists researching hops
Most often used as a flavoring and stability agent in beer, hops have become more popular during the past few years, due in large part to the boom in the craft brewing industry. Hops, which are cone-shaped flowers, aren’t a new crop for Missouri, but it’s been years since hops have been a mainstay in the state. “If you go…
Dairy Farmer Carries on Family Tradition
Only one percent of nation’s dairy farms are run by women
The sun is setting on the well-worn path to the dairy barn where Michelle Eilenstine milks cows. She travels the familiar path twice a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. There are 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. milkings. Eilenstine is part of a small group of women dairy farmers in Missouri. They are deeply passionate about what…
MU Extension Launching Innovative Online Program
Leadership Online For Today puts a focus on building better leaders
University of Missouri Extension has developed an innovative online program with the focus on building better leaders. Leadership Online For Today is an interactive program that allows participants to improve communication skills, build relationships and networks, and develop a collaborative project to benefit a community or organization. The first program is set to begin the week of Feb. 6. There…
Developing a Bond
First-ever MU Animal Sciences Youth Leadership Academy brings in 20 high school students
For the past year, David Hoffman, Wendy Flatt and Marcia Carlson Shannon have been preparing for the first-ever University of Missouri Animal Sciences Youth Leadership Academy. The academy is focused on bringing in high school students to learn more about the livestock industry and network with industry leaders. “I’ve had the idea for several years, and I know there are…
MU Extension Moves to New Model
University of Missouri Extension realigned its administrative structure to focus on high-priority local programs.