Grass tetany, also known as hypomagnesia, is a nutritional problem for grazing beef and dairy animals. It is often observed when cattle are grazing lush, actively growing cool-season pastures that have been well- fertilized with nit…
Nitrate poisoning in cattle is caused by the consumption of feed or water containing high levels of nitrate nitrogen. Under most circumstances, forage crops do not contain levels of nitrates high enough to be toxic. When this does o…
Producers implementing conservation techniques on-farm are eligible for financial assistance through the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service. There are several forms of assistance available. These p…
The ABCs and NPKs of Plant Nutrition
Plant Elements from Air and Water
There are 16 elements necessary for plant growth. About 80 to 90 percent of the fresh weight of a living plant is water, H2O. Thus, hydrogen and oxygen are two of t…
Measuring Acidity and Alkalinity
Soil pH is a measurement of the hydrogen ion concentration (H+) in solution. The pH is measured on a scale from 1 to 14 in solution (pH is reported as the negative logarithm of the hydrogen ion activity). A…
Getting Started With Season Extension Techniques
Spurred by enthusiasm for fresh, local agricultural products, farmers are increasing the availability of their crops beyond the traditional outdoor growing season. Premium prices and an exte…
The county 4-H Youth Council provides youth expanded citizenship and leadership opportunities and serves as the youth voice and advisory to the county 4-H team. Counties have latitude regarding the make-up of the 4-H Youth Council with the …
The Character Counts curriculum is an inclusive approach to character education. Each program and lesson plan is based on six ethical values that everyone can agree upon:
Trustworthiness
Respect
Responsibility
Fairness
Cari…
Telling a great story, showcasing projects at a community library, speaking at the local nursing home, organizing a community cookout or a building blocks workshop are great opportunities to serve others. Serving others helps you build your…
Alabama 4-H Sportfishing was created through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries Division.
The program trains staff and volunteers to teach youth ages 9 to…
Alabama is a state rich in natural resources and ranked fifth in the nation in terms of biodiversity (variety of fauna and flora). This is possible because of our state’s extensive river system and five distinct physiographic land section…
The Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) is a hands-on natural resources program that is dedicated to teaching wildlife and fisheries habitat management to junior and senior level (ages 9-18) 4-H and FFA youth across the United States….
The 4-H Forestry program helps youth to gain a strong understanding of trees, forest management, and environmental issues. It also provides hands on learning experiences that helps individuals develop skills to become better managers of f…
Paddling is a great way to experience Alabama’s abundant water resources, while enjoying quality time with friends and family and getting exercise.
Youth ages 9-18 are invited to participate in the 4-H RiverKids Program to learn ba…
Is the lake I swim in clean or dirty? What lives in my favorite creek? The 4-H Alabama Water Watch Program (4-H AWW) is an opportunity for youth to answer questions like these and more. 4-H AWW helps students take care of Alabama’s water …