Wells Ranch will host the August 28 KLA/Kansas State University Ranch Management Field Day south of Gridley in Woodson County. The field day will include discussions on the Asian longhorned tick and noxious weed control.
K-State extension beef veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff will provide an overview of the life cycle and identifying characteristics of the Asian longhorned tick, which is known for spreading a blood-borne parasite in livestock that causes theileriosis. To date, the tick has not been found in Kansas, but has been identified in neighboring states. Theileriosis, however, has been diagnosed in Kansas in cattle imported from other states. Attendees will leave this session with a better understanding of the new disease and what to look for in livestock.
During another session, David Kraft with the Kansas Grazing Lands Coalition (KGLC) will discuss resources available to producers to help with noxious weed management. He will share how KGLC has worked alongside Wells Ranch as they have improved their grazing land. Wade Newland with Newland Ag Drones also will be on hand to provide a spray drone demonstration.
Ranch owner Terry Wells will give a history of the operation and take attendees on a tour of his cattle handling facility. He will highlight modifications that have been made over the years to improve efficiency.
The field day will begin with registration at 3:30 p.m. CDT and conclude with a free beef dinner at 7:00 p.m. CDT. Directional signs will be posted.
Larson Ranch of Leoti is hosting the August 21 field day. The Farm Credit Associations of Kansas and Huvepharma are sponsoring both events. For more information, click here.