For centuries, farmers have used sheep to graze down unwanted vegetation but, unfortunately, the animals would also snack on crops. Following the recommendations of noted animal behaviorist Fred Provenza of Utah State University, the researchers let sheep eat their fill of grape leaves, and then administered a small, harmless dose of a medicine that made them nauseous. During a rainy year, when muddy vineyards prevent tractors from mowing or applying herbicides, the sheep can still graze...

In the years to come, Parts will tell sports reporters that being raised not knowing his mother or father had a devastating effect on his social development. They will accuse Parts of intentionally downplaying the nurturing influence of farmer Jim Hutchinson and his wife, Clara, who were reportedly mighty generous with the millet. The world of cockfighting lost one of its leading lights last week, when tragic circumstances claimed the life of a rooster whose name is practically synonymous...

News that tests to allow the remains of animals to be used in farm feed for the first time since the BSE crisis has been greeted with dismay by farmers and scientists. It was discussed after pressure from food manufacturers concerned at the increasing cost of disposing of animal carcasses. Anyone who remembers the fields of a few years ago with their smouldering carcasses of burnt animals - the checks at all ports and the damage to the countryside should be very concerned. EU scientists...

A number of practical aspects of cattle production and grazing will be discussed over the two days through presentations and tours, including alfalfa and forage rotations, grass establishment, bale grazing, switching fields from grain to grass, winter feeding options, and watering cattle through deep and shallow buried pipelines. Consistent with the tour s theme, Bringing Youth into Ranching, the two-day event is being offered free of charge to anyone 18 years of age and under. The average...

Drought puts 90% of state in 'extreme,' 'exceptional' status Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Ninety percent of Alabama is now in "extreme" or "exceptional" drought, making the outlook for the state's farmers "grim," the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries said Monday. Drought puts 90% of state in 'extreme,' 'exceptional' status Tuesday, June 26, 2007 Ninety percent of Alabama is now in "extreme" or "exceptional" drought, making the outlook for the state's farmers "grim," the Alabama...

Cost rise not balanced by food prices increase THERE are a number of factors which are likely to increase food production costs but these will not, in many cases, be balanced by an increase in food prices. Their unavailability, he added, could mean hot competition for alternative ingredients and drive up the price of animal feed. Commenting on the factors which will impact on production costs, Richard noted the reluctance of the EU to take account of science and allow itself to be backed...