What's Happening?
Kansas State University agricultural specialists are addressing the resurgence of scrapie in goats and sheep, as well as pest issues affecting soybean crops. Kelsey Bentley, a K-State Extension small ruminant specialist, discussed the programs available
to help eradicate scrapie and improve traceability. Meanwhile, Jeff Whitworth, a K-State crop entomologist, highlighted the damage caused by bean leaf beetles and podworms to soybean crops, along with available control options. The program also featured Raymond Cloyd, a K-State horticultural entomologist, who provided updates on pest concerns for home gardens and landscapes. These discussions are part of the 'Agriculture Today' program, which is distributed to radio stations across Kansas and available as a daily podcast.
Why It's Important?
The resurgence of scrapie and the impact of pests on soybean crops have significant implications for the agricultural sector in Kansas and beyond. Scrapie, a fatal disease affecting sheep and goats, poses a threat to livestock health and the agricultural economy. Effective eradication and traceability programs are crucial for maintaining livestock health and preventing economic losses. Similarly, pest infestations in soybean crops can lead to reduced yields and financial losses for farmers. Addressing these issues through expert guidance and control measures is vital for sustaining agricultural productivity and supporting the livelihoods of farmers in the region.
