133
LIBRARY OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2012 with funding from
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
http://www.archive.org/details/farmradionews1961univ
1EWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
iGRICULTURE UBRAR*
Crop Performance Day Set for January 24
URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
URBANA — Latest research results on the performance of 1960 hybrid and experimental corn varieties will be given at the University of Illinois Crop Performance Day January 24.
The meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. in the ballroom of the Uni- versity's Illini Union, according to W. O. Scott, U. of I. agronomist.
A panel of experts will be on hand to answer questions on high-density corn. Members of the panel will discuss the best fertili- zation levels for high-population corn, the problem of shading, the most successful breeding programs to follow and the types of equipment needed to cultivate and harvest high-population corn.
Last year more than 300 Illinois farmers and seedmen attended
Crop Performance Day.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Some Sheep Flocks More Valuable Than Others
URBANA — A University of Illinois livestock specialist an- nounced today that the average Illinois farmer with a sheep flock re- ceived a gross income of $24 per ewe during 1960.
Yet some farmers received more than $35 from their ewes. G. R. Carlisle says that records of 345 Illinois sheep flocks show why some flocks produced more income than others for their owners.
The average ewe produced. 91 pounds of lamb that was marketed by September 1. This same average ewe also produced 8 2/3 pounds of wool.
On the other hand, ewes in high-income flocks produced 125 pounds of lamb that was marketed by September 1. These ewes produced 11 pounds of wool. Farmers with high-income flocks also received about $2.00 more per hundredweight when they sold their lambs.
This combination of one-third more lamb, 2 pounds more wool and a higher price for marketed lambs adds up to a 50 percent larger gross income.
Farmers reading between the lines will realize that good management is the answer to higher incomes from sheep flocks. Many farmers will find helpful ideas in the leaflet, "Ewe Flock Management in the '60s." Copies are free and available from University of Illi- nois county farm advisers.
Farmers can also write to Carlisle for a copy. His address is 326 Mumford Hall, Urbana, Illinois.
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£> 30< / /J-^{VA~'C UNIVERSITY OF ILIJ
-*T f b I 0 AGRICULTURE LJBRARV
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Panel Discussion Feature of ISHIA Meeting January 14
URBANA — A panel discussion of current swine problems and prog- ress toward their solution highlights the Illinois Swine Herd Im- provement Association's annual meeting January 14 in Peoria.
Panel members include 0. Burr Ross, head of the University of Illinois department of animal science; J. W. Albrecht, veterinarian from Princeton; and Harold Boucher, secretary, Hampshire Swine Regis- try.
Another U. of I. speaker, livestock specialist, H. G. Rus- sell, summarizes data from the association's test stations last year. The data include backfat thickness, loin eye measurement, carcass length, weight gains and other facts from every hog tested.
H. L. Self, Iowa State University, discusses artificial breeding of swine. L. L. Stewart, Indiana hog producer, reveals changes he has made in the last five years to keep pace with the chang- ing and growing swine industry.
Suggested changes in the USDA daily market reports is the topic of B. H. Jones, Chicago Stockyards.
All interested persons are invited to attend the meeting.
Starting at 10 a.m., it will be held in the Jefferson Hotel.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Confinement Hog Production Needs Careful Planning
URBANA — Confinement production of hogs involves a. lot more than just locking them up in the old horse barn, says Roy Van Arsdall, U.S.D.A. economist at the University of Illinois.
A confinement system should, be designed for labor efficiency. Van Arsdall emphasizes the importance of mechanical means of handling feed and. water as well as equipment for handling manure.
For most efficient feed conversion, temperatures should be kept at a moderate level within the house, Van Arsdall said. A closed house must be properly ventilated to control moisture.
Van Arsdall figures that a good, fully equipped farrowing house costs about $300 per sow space. On the basis of about four lit- ters a year with an average of 7 1/2 pigs per litter, this cost amounts to about $10 per market hog produced per year.
A finishing house costs about $10 per market hog produced per year. This cost is figured by assigning a. cost of $2.50 per square foot and allotting 10 square feet per hog and allowing four and a half to five months to finish a. bunch of hogs.
A farmer can expect to invest about $10,000 if he produces 500 hogs per year. This figure includes the cost of self-feeders and waterers.
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If the houses and equipment are bought new, the costs will be slightly more than for pasture production. However , Van Arsda.ll says that depreciation is greater with portable housing and partly compen- sates for this difference.
A confinement system can free land for more intensive crop- ping. The system can reduce labor needs and make it possible to dis- tribute labor more evenly throughout the year, Van Arsdall said.
Another advantage of this setup is that pigs are easier to handle, sort and vaccinate.
Handling manure is the main disadvantage of a confinement system, according to Van Arsdall. Also, because the Jiogs are unable to supplement their diet as they would on pasture, a farmer with a confine- ment system must thoroughly understand the nutritional requirements of hogs. And diseases can cause havoc if good sanitation practices aren't followed, Van Arsdall warned.
Van Arsdall thinks there is a definite trend toward confine- ment production of livestock in Illinois.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ag Short Course Offers 21 Courses
URBANA — Some 21 courses ranging from farm arithmetic to
animal hygiene will be offered to young farmers during the University
of Illinois winter short course in agriculture February 6 through
March 17.
Short course supervisor Warren Wessels says that courses will
be offered in agricultural economics and engineering, crop and livestock
production and management and prevention and control of animal diseases.
Another course that has been highly popular during previous short courses is dating, engagement and marriage.
Wessels points out that the College of Agriculture sponsors the short course for young farmers who cannot attend college on a regu- lar basis. Anyone 18 years old or older may attend. Although most students are between 18 and 23 years, ages of previous students have ranged up to 65 years.
Total costs for attending the short course range between $190 and $230. This total includes tuition, fees, books and supplies,
housing and meals.
Prospective students may apply for $100 scholarships offered by the Illinois Foundation FFA and many member banks of the Illinois
Bankers Association.
Short course students, explains Wessels, share in all the privileges of regular University students. This includes athletic events and social functions.
For more information concerning the short course, contact your county farm adviser or vo-ag teacher or write to Warren Wessels, 104 Mumford Hall, Urbana, Illinois
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Custom Spray School Offers Wide Range of Topics
URBANA — Many topics and speakers offer something interesting to every person attending the Illinois Custom Spray Operators' Training School, here on January 25-26.
This unique school is designed for ground, and aerial spray applicators. But farmers, agricultural chemical sales and development personnel, hybrid seed producers, vegetable canners and other interested persons may also attend.
The school focuses attention on the proper use of agricultural chemicals.
The specific program topics cover the latest developments in controlling insects, weeds and diseases and the proper use of certain application equipment.
Here are several of the 26 reports scheduled: (1) effect of rainfall and soil texture on pre-emergence chemicals; (2) weed control in corn, pre- and post-emergence; (3) corn leaf aphids in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois; (4) Simazine and Atrazine residues in soil; and (5) equip- ment for granular herbicides.
The majority of speakers come from the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey, which jointly sponsor the school. A number of other speakers, however, come from the University of Wis- consin, Purdue University and Iowa State University .
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Registration for the school begins at 8:15 a.m. on January 25 The official program gets under way at 9:50 a.m. Early arrivals may watch movies concerning agricultural chemicals which begin at 9 a.m.
A registration fee of $1.50 is charged. It includes the cost of a manual containing copies of all talks and reports.
The school meets in the Illini Union Ballroom on the Univer- sity of Illinois campus.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
q Short Course Deadline Drawing Near
URBANA — The deadline of January 27 for enrolling in the University f Illinois winter short course in agriculture is drawing near, warns hort course supervisor Warren Wessels.
Dates for the short course are February 6 through March 17. "he six-week course offers young farmers an opportunity to keep up to ate on modern farming practices. At the core of the short course are uch subjects as the management of beef cattle, dairy cattle, hogs, heep, crops and soils.
Livestock selection is also emphasized, as are agricultural ngineering courses dealing with shop work and farm equipment. Market- ng and prices and farm management are two courses offered in agricul- ural economics.
A brand-new course covers agricultural policy and programs. :t analyzes past and present federal programs affecting agriculture.
Anyone, man or woman, 18 years of age or older may attend the :hort course. Costs for the course average about $200. A number of ;100 scholarships, however, are available. They're offered by the Illi- ois Foundation FFA and many member banks of the Illinois Bankers association.
For more information on the short course, contact your county
"arm adviser or vo-ag teacher or write to Warren Wessels, 104 Mumford
lall, Urbana, Illinois.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rural Pastors' Short Course Announced
URBANA — Illinois rural pastors and lay leaders will take part in a three-day short course at the University of Illinois discussing ways in which the church can more effectively serve the community.
This thirty-first annual Rural Pastors' and Lay Leaders Short Course, to be held January 30, 31 and February 1, 1961, has as its theme, "The role of the church in rural communtiy life."
Program speakers will discuss important problems facing the rural community and list some resources available for solving them. Visitors will also have an opportunity to meet and talk with U. of I. specialists in social work and rural development.
Arthur L. White, Henry county superintendent of schools, Cambridge, will speak Tuesday evening on public education in rural com- munities.
The three-day meeting will get under way Monday evening with
an annual dinner in the University YMCA. Last year more than 100
pastors and lay leaders attended.
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HEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
HIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. of I. Offers Extramural Ag Courses in State
URBANA — Karl E. Gardner, associate dean of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, announces that the college will offer five extramural courses this spring.
The courses are:
1. Plan Pathology 377: Diseases of Field Crops. The first class meets Saturday, March 1, 9 a.m., at Jacksonville High School.
2. Rural Sociology 317 (same as Sociology 317) : Rural Com- munity Organization and Analysis. This course meets at Benton in the Farm Bureau Building beginning Monday, February 13, at 6:30 p.m.
3. Agronomy 306: Fertilizers and Their Soil Reactions. Be- ginning Saturday, February 11, this course meets at Pekin High School.
4. Farm Mgt. 324: Farm Operation. This course meets at Edwardsville in the Farm Bureau Building beginning Thursday, February 9, 6:30 p.m.
5. Ag Econ. 305: Ag Policies and Programs. Beginning Tues- day, February 14, this course meets at Springfield High School.
Persons taking the courses may receive graduate or under- graduate credit.
Gardner points out that these courses will be offered provided at least 15 students register. He adds that a registration fee will be charged. Registration will be held at the first class meeting.
Before registering, students should make sure that they have the necessary prerequisites for taking the course.
For more information, contact Gardner, 104 Mumford Hall, Uni- versity of Illinois, Urbana.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. of I. Holds Top- Level Ag Chemicals Meeting
URBANA — The University of Illinois and Illinois Natural His- tory Survey join hands January 25-26 to sponsor one of the top agricul- tural chemical meetings in the nation.,
Called the Illinois Custom Spray Operators' Training School, it will attract more than 800 people to the campus.
Every phase of the ag chemical world will be represented: the research men who spend painstaking hours and thousands of dollars devel- oping new chemicals; chemical manufacturers and distributors; and custom spray operators and farmers who apply the chemicals to fields and crops.
In brief, the school reports new developments in chemical warfare against crop and livestock insects and weeds. Much of the re- search reported will come from the U. of I. and I.N.H.S. But speakers are also traveling from Purdue, Ohio and Iowa State Universities and the Universities of Wisconsin and Missouri.
The school began 13 years ago largely through the efforts of extension entomologist H. B. Petty. At that time the agricultural chemical industry was in its infancy.
Since then it's taken giant strides as farmers strive to
reduce weed and insect losses in producing crops and livestock. These
losses amount to more than seven billion dollars annually.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Managers Discuss Challenge of Sixties
URBANA — Members of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers will converge on the University of Illi- nois campus for a two-day conference to closely examine some of the predicted farm trends for the sixties.
Registration begins at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, February 2, in the Illini Union building. The meeting ends Friday afternoon, February 3.
W. N. Thompson, U. of I. farm economist, will serve as moder- ator of a panel discussing the meaning of these trends to farm managers.
The panel, and the subject each will discuss, includes E. H. Foreman, Bloomington, developments in soils and crops? Tillman Bubenzer, Noblesville, Indiana, prospects for livestock production? Denver Kunz, Carlinville, trends in buildings and. equipment; and Nye Bouslog/ from the Union National Bank of Macomb, views of farm financing.
Later Thursday afternoon members will have an opportunity to question a group of specialists on highway condemnation appraisal.
Panel members are Richard E. Quinn, special assistant attorney general, attached to the Illinois Division of Highways, Springfield; Wallace M. Mulliken, Thomas, Mulliken and Mamer, Champaign; and Earl F. Crouse, Farm Business Council, Inc., Urbana.
N. G. P. Krausz, U. of I. professor of agricultural law, will
compare the advantages and disadvantages of farm partnerships and farm corporations. Krausz shares the evening program with A. J. Berwick, president of Doane Agricultural Service, Inc., who is going to discuss the legal liabilities of farm managers.
An annual award luncheon on Friday, February 3, will round out the program.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR P.M. RELEASE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 1961
flote to Editors; Attached are several stories covering talks to be jiven at the Illinois Custom Spray Operators' Training School January 25- 26 on the University of Illinois campus.
Petty Describes Insect Outlook for 1961
URBANA — H. B. Petty said today that face flies might present Dne of the farmer's most important insect problems in 1961.
"They will be just as bad as last year, if not worse, " he :ontinued. "They'll probably be most severe in the northern one half :o two thirds of Illinois. So far they have not been troublesome in the southern one third to one half. Face flies are so named because they cluster on the faces of cattle and horses."
Petty, describing the 1961 insect outlook, spoke before the Illinois Custom Spray Operators' Training School. He is an extension entomologist with the University of Illinois and the Illinois Natural iistory Survey.
He said that two Illinois areas could look forward to chinch Dug troubles. One area includes DeWitt, Macon and Piatt counties and fringes of the counties surrounding them. The other covers south- eastern Bond county and the north-central section of Clinton county.
Before chinch bugs develop, however, they must have dry, hot weather and thin, open stands of small grains.
The outlook for corn borers is not too serious. How severe they become depends mainly on weather and planting time. If farmers
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)lant early and the weather is favorable for the borer, damage could >ccur north of a line from St. Louis to Paris, excluding extreme north- >astern Illinois. This applies to field corn.
Grasshoppers will probably present moderate troubles north of i line from Lawrenceville to Carthage.
In southwestern and west southwestern Illinois, Hessian flies increased this past year. In southeastern and east southeastern Illi- nois, however, a dry fall and poor germination lowered the fall infesta- :ion of these pests that attack wheat.
Petty adds that Hessian flies were at a peak in 1956. Then heir numbers decreased in til 1958. New he warns that they are ap- proaching another peak, which may occur this year in some areas.
Northern counties can again expect a spittlebug problem. But
It will not be serious. Central counties will have a light infestation
Since spittlebugs attack hay, and hay is a surplus crop in many areas,
:ew farmers attempt to control these insects.
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FOR RELEASE TUESDAY, JANUARY 24 , 1961
Top Hybrids of 1960 Reported
URBANA — Last year's top-performing commercial corn hybrids in University of Illinois department of agronomy tests were announced to- day at Crop Performance Day.
The 1960 tests were conducted on 425 corn hybrids grown on 10 fields over the state, according to G. L. Ross, crops testing tech- nician.
Ross points out that small differences found in any one year's
tests do not necessarily mean that one hybrid is superior to a close
second. High performance for several years is a more reliable indicator
Here are the hybrids that produced highest yields this past
/ear:
Extreme northern Illinois at Woodstock: DeKalb 640, Pioneer
5707, Pioneer 6670, Moews 500A, P.A.G. 305.
Northern at DeKalb: Pioneer 5536, Moews CB65A; DeKalb 400, Troyer L13, Hulting 260SC.
East north-central at Ashkum; DeKalb 632, DeKalb X82030, Illinois 3347 (Station), DeKalb A703, Northrup King KT632.
West north-central at Galesburg: Bear OK96, Illinois 3343 (Station), DeKalb 805, Fooster F44, McAllister 55A.
East-central at Urbana: Pioneer 6201, DeKalb X91-005, Pioneer 312A, van Horn V.H. Ill, Steigelmeier Hi-B-Jack S-600.
Central at Stanford: P.A.G. SX19 (Exp. 15019), Pioneer 309A, Pioneer 312A, Steigelmeier Hi-B-Jack S-600, DeKalb 633.
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West-central at Bowen: Bear Unicorn X600, P.A.G. SX19, Prairie Gold D-896, Pioneer 80202, Whisnand, 852.
South-central at Greenfield: DeKalb 805, Illinois 8001 (Station), Bear Unicorn X606, Pioneer 6122, Moews 524.
Extreme southern Illinois at Wolf Lake: P.A.G. 444, Illinois 3348 (Station), Schenk's S-99W, DeKalb 1023, Schenk's S-90W.
The results from the Brownstown fields were discarded because of poor stands.
The researchers also reported the top-performing hybrids in test fields with increased planting rates:
Northern Illinois at DeKalb: Hy2xOh7 (Station), Illinois 3348 (Station), Illinois 1996 (Station), Sieben S-440E, P.A.G. Exp, 15018.
East-central at Urbana: P.A.G. SX19 (Exp. 15019), Monier 6-M-6, Pioneer 80202, DeKalb 805, P.A.G. 444, Pioneer 3756A.
South-central at Greenfield: P.A.G. SX19 (Exp. 15019), DeKalb 803A, DeKalb 640, Illinois 1332 (Station), Pioneer 321 (4549).
All hybrids tested averaged 93.8 bushels an acre. The highest average yield per acre was 112.7 bushels at Stanford in McLean County. Some hybrids showed definitely better standing ability than others.
Complete yields and other performance features of all hybrids
tested will soon be available in a bulletin, "I960 Commercial Illinois
Corn Tests, " from the College of Agriculture, Urbana.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 1961
Soybeans Show Little Response to Molybdenum Treatments
URBANA — No widespread benefits are likely in Illinois from treating soybeans with molybdenum, a University of Illinois agronomist reported today.
A. L. Lang, speaking before the annual Illinois Custom Spray Dperators" Training School, cautioned, however, that research data are not sufficient to make specific and detailed local recommendations.
Lang reported that field tests were conducted on five experi- ment fields in 1960. Except for one field, the results showed no posi- tive or negative effects from the molybdenum treatment.
At the Carlinville field, however, all molybdenum- treated plots averaged about 3 bushels an acre more than untreated, plots. The Illinois soil scientists are now interested in making further chemical tests of the soil and the soybean seed to see whether they can identify the cause of this yield increase. On this field there seemed to be no relation between plots with lime, no lime or other fertility treatments.
Lang also reported survey results from 196 farmers. They showed that 47 increased their yields from using molybdenum- treated Beed, 63 had no difference in yields and the rest had no fair comparison because they treated the whole field and left no check. Those who re- ported higher yields had increases of 1/2 to 4 bushels an acre for the nolybdenum treatment.
Lang also reported that in 1960 Indiana tests at five loca- tions molybdenum treatment failed to affect either growth or yield. Chemical analysis of the beans at the U. S. Regional Soybean Laboratory at Urbana showed no effect on the percent of protein or oil as a result of the treatment.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 1961
Farmers Spend $3 Million for Insecticides
URBANA — Illinois farmers paid, more than $3 million for insec- ticides during I960, H. B. Petty reported today at the Illinois Custom Spray operators' Training School.
Petty also estimated that use of insecticides increased prof- its from crop production nearly $7 million.
These figures represent insecticides applied against the major crop insects. Included are the cutworm, potato leafhopper, sweet clover weevil, corn borer, soil insects, corn leaf aphid, cloverleaf weevil and meadow spittlebug.
Farmers directed the majority of their insecticide money to- ward controlling soil insects. In 1960 they treated 1,900,000 acres compared with approximately 1,300,000 acres in 1959, a. jump of 600,000
acres.
Soil insecticides alone, however, increased farmers' profits
by more than $5 million. Soil insects attack plants from underground,
destroying the root system.
Petty said that insects in general were not so severe last year as in previous years. But certain ones, including underground corn- feeding insects, were as troublesome as usual.
Petty is an extension entomologist w?th the University of
Illinois and the Illinois Natural History Survey.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 1961
Insecticides Not Recommended for Corn Leaf Aphids Yet
URBANA — An Ohio State University entomologist said today that he does not yet recommend using insecticides to control corn leaf aphids.
"We are still not certain that growers will receive a reason-" able return for such an investment, ■ C. A. Triplehorn continued. He spoke at the Illinois Custom Spray Operators' Training School.
Triplehorn added, however, that malathion and parathion can effectively reduce aphid populations. This means getting the insecti- cide into the plant's whorl at or just before tassel emergence.
The scientist explained that severe aphid damage seems to be associated with hot, dry seasons. In fact, it's sometimes difficult to distinguish drought damage from aphid damage.
The Custom Spray School is sponsored jointly by the University of Illinois and the Illinois Natural History Survey.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 1961
Simazine and Atrazine Often jazardous to Following Crop
URBANA — Winter wheat and spring oats are often damaged when they follow a corn crop treated with simazine or atrazine, a University ?f Missouri researcher reported today.
O. H. Fletchall explained that these two weed killers are widely used in cornfields. Their residues, however, often remain in the soil long after the corn is harvested. Therefore they can damage :ertain crops planted after the corn.
These residues are NOT harmful to the crops planted after :orn: sorghum, soybeans, cotton and corn.
Research scientists are still trying to determine whether the residues can affect forage crops seeded, the following spring.
Fletchall spoke before the Illinois Custom Spray Operators* Training School on the University of Illinois campus.
He pointed out three outstanding characteristics of simazine
ind atrazine that make them so popularz (1) they control weeds for the
sntire season, (2) they are effective against almost all annual weeds
that infest corn and (3) at reasonable application rates they do not
injure corn.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, JANUARY 26, 1961
Soil Insecticides Approved for Winter Applications
URBANA — A research entomologist with the Illinois Natural His- tory Survey said today that he now approves the winter application of soil insecticides.
But J. H. Bigger said, that winter applications are not de- signed to replace spring applications. They are merely a labor-saver, since farmers can make the applications during the slack season.
Up to now, entomologists have believed that winter applica- tions were not so effective as spring applications. But after four years of testing, they appear to be equally effective in controlling soil insects that cause thousands of dollars of damage.
Farmers can make winter applications between December 1 and March 15. Disking in the application is not necessary even though the field is muddy, frozen or snow-covered. Freezing and thawing apparently work the insecticide into the soil before warm spring weather arrives.
Applications after March 15 must be disked in immediately.
Otherwise the chemicals will evaporate when temperatures climb above 60
degrees.
Bigger used aldrin and heptachlor in his tests. He applied
them as granules or in mixed dry fertilizers at the rate of 1 1/2 to 2 pounds per acre. If aerial applications are used, he suggests applying them in limited areas on a trial basis.
Bigger gave his report before the Illinois Custom Spray Opera- tors' Training School meeting on the University of Illinois campus.
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HEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
PkVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UI Scientists Grow Cow Mammary 3land Cells in Test Tubes
URBANA — A group of University of Illinois dairy biochemists are working to answer a question that has for centuries puzzled scien- tists and laymen alike.
The question is: How do cows produce milk?
To carry out their research, the scientists have removed mam- nary gland tissue cells from dairy cow udders and transplanted them in- to small laboratory flasks.
The amazing thing is that some of the cells have been living and reproducing in the flasks for nearly three years.
Bruce Larson, U. of I. researcher in charge of the project,
3ays that for a. short time the test tube cells actually continue to
nake milk. After a few days, however, they lose this ability even
though they continue to grow and organize as if they were still in the
:ow.
The U. of I. researchers are using the test tube cells to
study processes that control formation or milk in the mammary gland.
rhey hope that this research may ultimately unlock enough secrets to
sxplain how milk is produced within the cells.
"Most of our efforts so far have been aimed at stretching the
period in which the tissue cells produce milk-like constituents in the
test tubes, " Larson explains.
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Stretching this milk-producing period actually may be the key to the whole problem. If researchers can find the substances needed to make the test tube cells produce milk, they will have taken a giant step in finding internal factors within the cow that cause milk produc- tion.
In the research, tissue cells are taken from dairy cows imme- diately after slaughter. The U. of I. scientists transplant the tissue into small glass flasks.
Everything possible is done to make the environment within the flasks as nearly as possible like conditions in a. live cow's udder.
For example, the flasks are stored in a giant incubator that keeps the cells at normal body temperature at all times. Also, the cells feed from a special liquid medium containing many of the essential nutrients usually carried to the cells in the blood stream of the cow.
For best growth, the cell medium has to be changed at least twice a week. Since complete sanitation is imperative to maintain healthy cultures, the medium change takes place in a small, completely sterile laboratory adjacent to the large one.
All instruments that go into this germ-free, glassed-in labo- ratory are carefully sterilized. Purified air is filtered into the room, and assistants who work there are required to wear special clothing and face masks.
What happens to the tissue cells as they grow in the labora- tory?
Not too much growth occurs the first day or two, Larson
explains. This is the period in which the cells keep producing milk. But after two or three days milk production drops off entirely. The
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cells start to grow vigorously, but in not quite the same way as they grew in the cow.
Therefore the mammary gland study is also providing informa- tion on what happens to body cells when they grow under abnormal conditions — information that is needed in cancer research to find why some cells become cancerous and others remain normal.
But, whatever type of research the mammary tissue cell study branches into, the main objective of the project remains the same — to find out how cows make milk.
It's a question that's more difficult to answer than most
people think. So far it's been one of nature's best kept secrets — a
secret that for centuries has been locked within myriads of tiny cells
too small for the naked eye to see.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1961 Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
Railroads Providing Flexible Service to Livestock Industry
URBANA — A major railroad executive today cited examples of how the nation's railroads are tailoring their services to meet the critical needs of the livestock industry.
J. E. Lehew, supervisor of livestock and packing-house prod- ucts for the Pennsylvania railroad, reported that American railroads transport about 300,000 loads of livestock each year. He cited these examples of the services provided to accommodate the livestock industry:
Longer stock cars have been built to speed movement of slaugh- ter livestock from market to packing plant at low rates.
The fattening in-transit privilege for feeder stock reduces transportation rates when fed. cattle are shipped on to market.
Some railroads speed delivery between mainline and branch-line stations and at terminal junctions by substituting trucking service. "Piggy-back," or trailer-on-flat-car, shipments are employed to modernize rail service for livestock.
Special train schedules and "piggy-back" movements to reduce transit time are also used to move meat products from packing plant to consumer. Newer types of equipment are being built to promote better handling of meat. Loss and damage prevention is continually being studied.
Lehew spoke before the livestock marketing session of the
University of Illinois Agricultural Industries Forum.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1961 Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
Trucks Speed Livestock and Meat Hauling to East
URBANA — A Chicago trucking firm executive today cited some revolutionary changes taking place in livestock and meat movement to the east coast as a. result of new and flexible transportation methods.
Rollin F. Allyne of the Emery Transportation Co. reported that trucks hauled 53 percent of the livestock shipped, from Chicago last year compared with only 30 percent four years earlier. He cited these reasons for greater use of trucks in livestock and meat shipments:
Trucks are more flexible in moving direct from shipper to receiver. Improved highways have reduced travel time. A two-man truck- driving team can move livestock from Chicago to New York in 18 to 20
hours.
Newer and larger trailers have raised the size of payload a
truck can haul. The 40-foot possum-belly trailer can handle 32 to 34
steers compared with only 19 head in the earlier 35-foot single-floor
trailer.
Improved refrigeration equipment and better highways are mak- ing it possible to truck more meat from midwest plants to the eastern markets. Although Allyne made no predictions, he reminded the audience that eastern packing plants were originally established because of the long transit time from the midwest — a situation that no longer exists.
Livestock shrinkage is less because the transit time is less. ?cr handling meat, trucks also have an advantage because mechanical refrigeration equipment produces less shrink than the water-ice refrig- eration in rail cars. More uniform temperatures can be maintained with mechanical refrigeration equipment. Even with a 100-degree temperature outside, the refrigerated trucks can maintain a zero-degree temperature inside and still have more refrigeration capacity. Truckers are being trained to distribute the cold by placing the packaged products in the raost efficient way.
Allyne prepared his paper for the livestock marketing sessions of the University of Illinois Agricultural Industries Forum. It was Presented by Harold Rubenstein, vice president of Emery Transportation Co.
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FOR RELEASE TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 1961 Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
Farming Conditions Limit Full Mechanization
URBANA — Customary methods of producing crops and livestock on Illinois farms hinder the development of the most complete and efficient mechanized livestock units, a USDA agricultural economist at the Univer- sity of Illinois stated today.
Roy N. van Arsdall reported that livestock operations can be mechanized to a high degree. The high investment costs can be reduced by an intensive and highly specialized year-round production program.
But heavy seasonal demands for labor from crops produced on the same farm present a real problem to the farmer who wants to set up an intensive year-round livestock program. If he is fully employed with livestock, the planting and harvest periods put a great overburden on his labor. If he sets up his livestock program to fit into slack crop production periods, his buildings and livestock equipment may be only partly employed and he may not get the full returns for his in- vestment.
Van Arsdall also warned that livestock automation is not a
magic way to convert low returns into high ones. He emphasized that net income depends on net income per unit times volume produced. Low- producing cows, hens or sows can't be profitable for their owners even if their feed is handled mechanically, he pointed out.
But Van Arsdall believes that many good farmers are now han- dling only one-third to one-fourth as many livestock as they could manage if they improved their working methods. These are the farmers who would benefit from mechanizing their livestock production and boost- ing the volume produced per man.
Van Arsdall spoke before the feed, equipment and farm supply dealers' session at the University of Illinois Agricultural Industries Forum on the campus.
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FOR RELEASE TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 1961 Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
Exports Not Complete Answer to Farm Problem
URBANA — Exports are not the complete answer to domestic farm problems, a U. S. Department of Agriculture official declared here to- day.
Paul E. Quintus, assistant administrator for market develop- ment, stated that exports can take some of the pressure off supplies. But they cannot absorb all the production that our highly efficient farms can make available, he emphasized.
Our agricultural exports are, however, helping destitute people in underdeveloped countries resist aggression and subversion. This is in line with our foreign policy objectives, he emphasized.
Quintus pointed, out that during 1960 the value of farm prod- ucts shipped, overseas set a new record, about $4.8 billion. These ex- ports represent the annual production of about 60 million acres, which is equivalent to the entire harvested output of farms in Illinois, Indiana and Iowa and enough to take up most of the output of Kentucky
too.
Special government programs have played a major role in the
record amounts of wheat and flour exported this past year, he reported.
Of the $875 million worth of wheat and flour exports, about $646 million
moved out under special government programs. The remaining $229 million
worth was sold for dollars.
Feed grain exports are much less dependent on government help. Only about 5 percent of the 1960 exports moved, out under special govern- ment export programs. Soybean exports set a new record of 142 million bushels last season, but were not involved in government export payments of any kind.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AG R I C U IT U R A L CO N F E R E NC ES
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Urbana, Illinois
FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1961
Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
More Exports Key to Stopping Gold Loss
URBANA — Selling more American products abroad is the key to stopping the drain of American gold to foreign countries, an interna- tionally known financial authority declared here today.
Nicholas Nyradi, director of international studies at Bradley University, told a group of agricultural businessmen that the favorable balance of American export trade in 1960 presents the only silver lining to the somber picture of our deficit in international payments and loss of our gold stocks.
Rising exports are proof that American products, in spite of several handicaps, can still compete on world markets, Nyradi declared. A policy to boost exports is a better remedy for the outflow of gold than many "snake remedies suggested by financial experts," he emphasized.
Such proposals as raising U. S. tariffs, limiting imports by quotas, reducing American travel spending or "buy American" orders to the armed forces commissaries abroad can only lead to retaliatory meas- ures against American products on foreign markets. Such control meas- ures would cause more damage than would be of f set by the meager reduction in the gold outflow they would achieve, he stressed.
American export trade could also be increased by trying to sell our $8 billion worth of farm surpluses on the world market, Nyradi
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stated. This would have to be done at depressed prices, he admitted. But the premiums paid to farmers would help to improve our balance of international payments instead of bursting the storage bins of the Commodity Credit Corporation, he reasoned.
Nyradi labeled our favorable $5 billion balance of trade in 1960 an economic miracle. It was achieved despite higher costs of production than our competitors had. He explained our favorable exports in this way: "The quality of our products is superior and our mass production methods are better and more efficient than those of many foreign countries."
But he warned that the situation isn't so rosy as the figures indicate. He pointed out that the most disastrous consequence of the 1959 steel strike was the growing influx of foreign steel and steel products on the American market. While American steel industry is operating at a low level of total capacity, some products, like nails and wire, are making further inroads on the American market.
To keep a favorable trade balance, we must think now about effective measures to hold it, Nyradi warned. American wages will con- tinue to be higher than those in other countries for some time. Several foreign countries are also increasing their production efficiency.
He advocated more liberal depreciation allowances for American industry, a method, used to a greater extent in foreign countries than here.
The growing competition of communist countries on the world market must also be watched carefully, he warned. Free countries must consider production costs in their trade policies. But communist coun- tries can sell, trade, barter or even dump their products on the world market strictly for power political aims without the limitation of sound economic policy.
Nyradi was born and educated in Hungary and held the post of under-secretary of the treasury and minister of finance there. Increas- ing Soviet pressure brought him to this country in 1948. He is now an American citizen and has won renown for his knowledge of European affairs and communist activities. He spoke before the general session of the University of Illinois Agricultural Industries Forum.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURAL CO N F E R EN C E S
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Urbana, Illinois
FOR RELEASE TUESDAY, JANUARY 31, 1961
Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
Expects More Chemical Use in Weed Control
URBANA — The discovery that weeds are costly and generally can't be controlled by cultivating is causing farmers to use more chemi- cals, a University of Illinois agronomist declared here today.
Widespread use of fertilizers and insecticides has eliminated some barriers to high yields, F. W. Slife reported. Now weeds are get- ting the attention they deserve, he emphasized. On some farms weeds are not a problem. But on many others they can cut yields by 10 to 20 percent.
Slife cited research showing that giant foxtail reduced corn yields by nearly 20 bushels an acre and soybean yields by 10 bushels an acre. With a million acres of Illinois cropland infested, losses from this weed alone add up to millions of dollars, he pointed out.
New chemicals and chemical treatments are being developed at a rapid rate. If chemical companies continue to develop weed control chemicals as fast as they have in the past, Slife sees newer and better control methods ahead.
He cited granular forms of herbicide as one recent develop- ment. Because of their convenience, the granular forms of pre-emergence
herbicides will probably become more important in the future than liquid sprays, Slife believes.
Slife spoke before the fertilizer and chemical session of the University of Illinois Agricultural Industries Forum.
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY P.M., FEBRUARY 3, 1961
Roberts Receives Farm Managers Award
URBANA — Thomas H. Roberts, Sr., DeKalb, this afternoon re- ceived the annual award of the Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for outstanding contributions to Illinois agriculture.
Douglass F. Graves, vice-president of the Harris Trust and Savings Bank, Chicago presented the award, an engraved plaque, to Roberts at the annual award luncheon in the Illini Union ballroom on the campus of the University of Illinois.
The plaque read: "The Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers presents to Thomas H. Roberts, Sr., its highest award in recognition of his distinguished contributions to American agriculture as a business executive, civic leader and pioneer in plant and poultry genetics."
Roberts is president of the DeKalb Agricultural Association, Inc., DeKalb. He has made significant contributions in the fields of plant and poultry breeding research.
Roberts served as farm adviser in DeKalb county for ten years and was a member of the founding committees of the Pure Milk Association and the Illinois Farm Supply Company. In 1960 he received the Gamma Sigma Delta Award of Merit.
The annual award luncheon ended the two-day conference of the
Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers at
the University.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 1, 1961 Agricultural Industries Forum Coverage
State Milk Price Control Against Public Interest
URBANA — A University of Illinois agricultural economist said today that state milk price control to prevent use of milk as a loss leader is not in the public interest.
R. W. Bartlett stated that state laws for the control of sales below cost have definite limitations. Usually the number of accounting and legal enforcement personnel are inadequate. Cost surveys used to set prices often permit inefficient milk distributors to con- tinue their operations.
Federal laws already exist that could control use of loss leaders without permitting inefficient firms to stay in business, Bartlett believes. For this reason he recommended setting up a code of ethics in cooperation with the Federal Trade Commission and the anti- trust division of the Department of Justice. This would encourage pricing of milk and milk products at cost or above. He also recommended more funds for enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute firms whose operations are illegal.
Bartlett cited the experiences of a number of states that had
milk control laws at one time and have now abandoned them. He spoke
before the dairy marketing sessions of the University of Illinois
Agricultural Industries Forum.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Of Special interest to SOUTHERN ILLINOIS DAILIES)
Dixon Springs Station Announces Sheep Day Program
URBANA — Southern Illinois sheepmen can gather new facts and information on sheep production when the Dixon Springs Experiment Sta- tion holds its annual Sheep Day February 15.
Managed by the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, the Station is located near Robbs in Pope county. The program features reports of sheep management and feeding studies conducted at the Sta- tion.
Reports included are (1) causes of lamb losses and suggested
prevention, (2) early weaning and lamb management, (3) reports of lamb feeding trials, (4) synchronized breeding and management and (5) the value of wool and lamb pools.
The audience will also hear discussions of management prac- tices that lead to a. successful sheep business and changes in sheep production and marketing.
During the afternoon, the group will tour the Station's sheep barns and listen to U. of I. personnel describe the feeding and manage- ment operations.
The program starts at 9:30 a.m. and winds up at 3 p.m.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
sjlVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cite Trends and Prospects
for Illinois Poultry Industry
URBANA — Fewer farms, fewer laying hens and more eggs per hen describes the trends in the Illinois poultry industry in recent years, University of Illinois poultry specialists reported this week.
Speaking before the poultry sessions at the Univesity of Illi- nois Agricultural Industries Forum, James R. Roush and S. F. Ridlen stated that in the past five years the number of Illinois farmers with laying hens has dropped 35 percent, the number of hens 27 percent, and the volume of egg sales 3 percent.
While the number of Illinois farms raising broilers has dropped 63 percent, the number sold per farm has more than doubled, and total sales have dropped about 23 percent.
The number of Illinois turkey farms has dropped 45 percent. But average flock size has jumped 151 percent and total turkey sales have risen 37 percent.
In another session industry representatives pointed out the
changes needed to keep the Illinois poultry industry abreast of competi- tion.
Sheldon Swann, Kauffman Turkey Farm, Waterman, expressed con- cern about the decline in number of turkeys grown in Illinois compared with neighboring states. He pointed out that Illinois growers have the advantages of nearby markets, abundant feed supplies, equal or better
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climatic conditions and ability to produce a high-quality product. He felt that the reason for not expanding had been stories of occasional high death losses, hard work and risks.
Speaking for the broiler industry, Fred Munroe, Joliet hatch- eryman, pointed out that Illinois growers have the advantages of close markets and abundant low-cost feeds. But for the industry to prosper there must be close cooperation between grower, hatcheryman and proc- essor. Each segment must run its facilities at near capacity to compete with producers in other states, he pointed out.
Ralph Thomas, DeKalb Agricultural Association, Inc., pointed out that the egg industry has been slower to move into larger units than the turkey and broiler industries. But changes are taking place in the marketing and production systems, he stated.
He reported rapid expansion in large-scale egg-producing units in the west and south. Midwest producers now face stiff low-cost com- petition from other areas. To meet the competitive challenge, Illinois producers must do these things:
Market eggs direct to consumer or join in a quality marketing arrangement under contract.
Produce only high-quality eggs.
Build flock size large enough to make eggs a major part of the total farm business.
Concentrate production areas to reduce the cost of moving supplies to big-city markets.
Have a source of high-quality started pullets or have an oper- ation to grow pullets efficiently.
Plan production and keep feed costs low. Feed suppliers and natcherymen must be well informed on financing, housing, nutrition, marketing, diseases and business management. In many cases these men might want to set up their own egg production and egg marketing busi- nesses, Thomas concluded.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Announces New U. of I. Vegetable Crops Specialist
URBANA — C. J. Birkeland, head of the University of Illinois department of horticulture, has announced the appointment of J. S. Vandemark as extension specialist in vegetable crops.
Vandemark replaces Norman F. Oebker, who is now in Arizona.
A native of Fairgrove, Michigan, Vandemark attended Michigan State University. He received a B.S. degree in 1941 and an M.S. in 1946. Last year he completed work for his Ph.D. from the U. of I.
Vandemark has worked extensively with sweet corn packaging, precooling, space fumigation and sugar fertilization during his career. Before coming to Illinois, he worked nine years as a. Purdue University extension specialist. He has also been assistant director of the com- modity division, American Farm Bureau Federation.
One of his more interesting jobs, from a geographical stand- point, was with the Central Aguirre Sugar Company in Puerto Rico, where he headed up the research division.
In his Illinois extension work, Vandemark works closely with vegetable growers and canners. He does much of his work in Cook, Madison and St. Clair counties. But he also travels extensively throughout the remainder of the state.
Married and the father of one child, Vandemark is a. member of
Gamma Sigma Delta, Sigma Xi and Phi Sigma.
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UI College of Agriculture Prepares for Annual Farm and Home Festival
URBANA — Preparations are swinging into high gear as the Uni- versity of Illinois College of Agriculture readies itself for another Farm and Home Festival.
The Festival annually attracts nearly 15,000 farm and city people from all parts of Illinois and. from adjoining states.
Theme of this year's Festival is "Foundations for the Future." The giant show, set for April 6, 7 and 8, will revolve around four major exhibit areas designed to show how basic research today may open up new horizons for living in the future.
Here are a few examples of the type of research Festival visitors will see:
Dairy scientists are building their exhibit on the theme, "From Roughage to Milk." They'll also show how fruit flies, mice and goats are finding themselves in the unlikely position of aiding dairy cow genetic research.
"Flavor" is the theme of the food technology exhibit. The scientists will show how various factors affect food flavors. On hand also will be the U. of I. national champion dairy products judging team.
U. of I. entomologists are preparing glass cases to house live termites and ants to show how these insects live. Practical aspect of the exhibit is to show the best methods for controlling these pests.
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Slated to meet the "Home" section needs of the Festival are a number of exhibits designed for the modern homemaker.
For example:
A miniature electrically operated, woolen mill will show vari- ous phases of wool cloth production.
Weaving, ceramics and jewelry designed, by professional home economists will be on display.
The specially built wheelchair kitchen will show recommended dimension arrangements and storage ideas adapted for wheelchair use.
Foods researchers will display wise use of food, freezers, a variety of packaging materials and publications about food freezing.
Though most exhibits in the home section are concerned with the new and modern, the highlight of the section quite possibly may be two rooms set to display articles from a historic costume collection.
The display will include seven wedding gowns dating from 1830 to 1961. The gowns will be on figures and surrounded by palms to give a "wedding" atmosphere. Also on display will be historic fans, antique lace handkerchiefs and collars.
Saturday, April 8, is the annual Ag Student Guest Day and. Home Economics Hospitality Day. High school students will have an excellent opportunity to see the campus, hear about career opportunities 2nd learn how students live while going to college.
The Festival also includes the Town and Country Art Show, featuring the best works selected from local shows throughout the state.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nitrate Slows Hog Gains in Illinois Tests
URBANA— University of Illinois tests have shown that nitrate added to swine rations significantly slows gains.
A research assistant in animal science, J. T. Tollett, added 0.61, 1.23, 1.84, 2.4 and 3.17 percent nitrate, as potassium nitrate, to corn — soybean meal rations. A control group received no addition. He found that levels above 1.84 percent significantly depressed gains. Further tests confirmed that the nitrate, not the potassium, caused the slower gains.
In another test, Tollett added varying levels of nitrate and vitamin A to a milo diet fed to hogs. In all cases, regardless of the vitamin A level, the rate and efficiency of gain were significantly slower. Dietary nitrate also increased, the methemoglobin level in the blood, and this response was not affected by vitamin A supplementation.
In other words, the vitamin A did not prevent the toxic effects of nitrate in swine.
Tollett explained that nitrate toxicity and. vitamin A defi- ciencies are becoming more serious in cattle and sheep. The vitamin A deficiencies occur even though the animals receive an adequate amount of the vitamin or carotene, the forerunner of vitamin A found in for- ages.
There is increasing evidence that these two problems, nitrate toxicity and vitamin A deficiencies, are linked together. If so, it's possible that they are increasing because of increased levels of nitro- gen fertilizer being applied to crops.
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Plants absorb the nitrate; then livestock absorb the nitrate from forages. The nitrate converts to nitrite in the animal's body. Nitrite prohibits the blood from transporting oxygen — consequently the animal suffocates.
Only one or two cases of nitrate poisoning have been reported in swine so far. But the U. of I. swine staff are already studying the problem so that they'll be one jump ahead if it does become wide- spread.
Tcllett gave this report at the recent U. of I. Nutrition
Conference.
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«WS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Trend to Country Hog Markets May Mean Higher Costs
URBANA — A University of Illinois livestock marketing economist reports that the shift from terminal to local hog marketing may bring ^ome high marketing costs for Illinois hog producers.
E. E. Broadbent points out that several of the more efficient Illinois country markets handle over 100,000 head of hogs a year and will employ about three or four men. Many markets, however, handle fewer than 30,000 hogs and employ about two men at each buying point.
Obviously the larger volume gives a definite advantage to the large-scale market operator. His fixed costs for salaries, overhead, interest, taxes and maintenance will be spread over more hogs sold.
Broadbent believes that the large-volume operator could pay as much as 25 cents a hundred pounds more for hogs than the low- volume operator. He points out that, with a market volume of 20,000 hogs a year, a market employing two men must cover its costs with an average of 33 hogs a day. On some days, 10 to 12 hogs must cover expenses.
If many small local markets keep operating, they must do it eithar by paying relatively low prices for the livestock they buy or by employing low-salaried help. Broadbent questions whether either prac- tice builds much stability into the market for livestock.
Looking to the future, he believes that hog markets will be
forced tc consolidate to reduce costs and to coordinate their services to livestock producers.
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13th 4-H and FFA Dairy Calf
Sale Set for February 25
URBANA — Early consignments and intense interest shown by breeders indicate that the 13th annual 4-H and FFA dairy calf sale will be one of the best of the series, says J. G. Cash, University of Illi- nois dairy specialist.
About 85 top-quality calves from Holstein, Guernsey, Brown Swiss, Jersey and Ayrshire breeds will be sold at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 25, at the College of Agriculture's stock pavilion.
This sale is unique in many ways. So far as is known, it was one of the first of its kind in the country. The entire sales force donate their services so that consignors won't have to pay a charge for selling. In the past 12 years 1,070 calves have been sold at these sales.
Only bona fide Illinois 4-H and FFA members are eligible to Duy calves at this sale. However, if the member cannot attend, he may designate another person to buy an animal for him.
All purchasers must certify that the calves will be used only for 4-H or FFA dairy projects. For sale catalogs, write to J. G. Cash, Department of Dairy Science, University of Illinois, Urbana.
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Dates for U. of I. Area Swine Days Announced
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture has announced that its annual Swine Day will be held on campus March 28.
At the same time, dates for area Swine Days were announced as follows:
Mt. Vernon March 29
Carlinville March 30
Rushville April 3
Galesburg April 4
Amboy April 5
Research in hog management and production carried on during the past year at the University of Illinois is released at Swine Day. Programs for the area events are similar to that for Swine Day held on campus.
More details will be released, when the program is announced.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Boys Still Lag Behind in Attending College
URBANA — Associate Dean Karl E. Gardner of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture repeated again today that not enough farm boys are attending college.
He cited figures showing that rural farm youths comprise only 6.4 percent of all college students in the nation. Yet the rural popu- lation makes up 11 percent of the total population.
He also revealed another study concerning "plans" of youth to attend college. Only 34 percent of rural farm boys are planning to attend, compared with 55 percent of the urban boys. Only 20 percent of the urban boys are undecided about college, while 27 percent of the farm boys can't make up their minds.
Gardner has repeatedly warned that only one out of every three farm boys in the corn belt can expect to farm after high school gradua- tion. This means non-farm jobs for the other two. While there axe unlimited job opportunities off the farm, the college graduate advances faster, earns more money and has a greater job security than the boy with no college education.
There are vast opportunities in agriculture as well as in usmess, engineering, the social, biological and physical sciences, education and the humanities.
More details on agricultural careers will be presented at the
<-oiiege s Ag Student Guest Day Saturday, April 8 at Urbana. It's held
in conjuntion with the Farm and Home Festival. All interested high school students are invited to attend.
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Suggests Rations for Fattening Lambs Rapidly
URBANA — The University of Illinois announces that it has com- pleted another lamb-feeding trial testing rations that produce rapid gains.
The ration producing the best gains, an average of .44 pound daily, contained: (1) 64 percent ground corn, (2) 16 percent ground corncobs, (3) 10 percent soybean meal, (4) 5 percent alfalfa meal, and (5) vitamins, minerals, and antibiotics.
Sheep researcher E. E. Hatfield says that the lambs were fed free choice. Feed intake averaged 2.6 pounds daily.
He points out that the 64 percent ground corn and 16 percent ground corncobs are equivalent to the ratio of corn to cob in ground ear corn.
Hatfield adds that lambs received 15 milligrams of antibiotic per pound of feed, or 30 grams per ton. This is twice the level nor- mally included in feeder lamb rations. This probably prevented diges- tive troubles in lambs put on a full feed immediately without a "warmup."
Hatfield warns lamb feeders to keep alert for "overeating" disease. Lambs receiving highly concentrated, rations, such as the one described above, are more susceptible to this disease.
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Foreign Students Get Acquainted With Illinois Farm Families
URBANA — A group of eight foreign students recently took a swing around northern Illinois to visit with farm families and study corn-belt farming at its best.
"The ideas we exchanged with the farm families, however, were much more important than the production know-how we swapped, " The group unanimously agrees.
Evidently the farm folks felt the same way, for they often kept their guests up until 1 a.m. while talking and drinking coffee. And they were reluctant to bid them goodby, reports tour leader Frank Shuman .
Enrolled in the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, the students hail from Ireland and India. They include John T. Scully, R. P. Agrawal, D. S. Malik, M. N. Mishra, Rishi Ram, P. S. Shiwastawa and A. D. Tiwari. All except Scully and Tiwari are studying agronomy. Scully is working in agricultural economics, and Tiwari is studying veterinary medicine.
The group visited Livingston, McHenry, Whiteside and McLean counties. In Livingston county thay toured a poultry farm that nets an income of $27,000 on 40 acres. The owner explained that before launch- ing his 13,000-bird project he first gained valuable experience in breeding, feeding, and managing poultry.
The group visited several outstanding dairy farms in McHenry county. They learned how sound production and management practices
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make this county produce more milk per square mile than any other county in the nation.
The story of a 25-year "Soil Fertility Build-Up Program" highlighted a luncheon and forum discussion in Whiteside county. Be- cause of this county's outstanding soil testing program, farmers pro- duce one of the highest corn yields in the corn belt. Over 80 percent of the farmers test their soil.
The group also visited a bulk fertilizer plant where nitrogen, phosphate, and potash are mixed and applied directly to the soil. They saw how mixtures are formulated according to soil test analysis.
The group learned the fascinating story of hybrid corn at a seed company in McLean county. Luncheon in the company's cafeteria was also a high spot of this stop. The cafeteria served rice with hot pepper and Indian chutney from Bombay, making the Indian guests feel right at home. In addition, a lovely vase made from Moradabad brass, which comes from northern India, was a table centerpiece. One of the women who helped prepare the food had bought the vase to show her inter- est in international good will.
These gestures of friendship and the many ideas that were
exchanged helped the foreign students gain a better insight into the
lives of typical Illinoisans, and also helped the people of Illinois
get a better understanding of India and Ireland, their people and their
problems.
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Youth Conservation Workshops Announced
A brand-new program for high school students interested in wildlife and other natural resources is planned for this summer, an- nounces Farm (or Home) Adviser .
Students enrolling in the program can study soil, water, mineral, forest and fish resources in addition to wildlife. The pro- gram consists of seven "Youth Conservation Workshops" scheduled at the five state universities this summer.
Any boy or girl who is a. sophomore, junior or senior in high school may enroll. Those who wish to enroll can take their choice of any one of the seven workshops. Fees will be charged that cover all costs except transportation to the workshops.
The program is sponsored, by the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction in cooperation with the Illinois Departments of Agriculture and Conservation.
For more information, contact .
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IEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Home Owners Increase Fertilizer Use for Lawns
URBANA — The desire to have an attractive lawn like their neighbors is stimulating more and more home owners to use fertilizers, according to a University of Illinois plant pathologist and turf grass specialist.
M. P. Britton reports that about 45 percent of all home owners use fertilizer on their lawns. On the average they used about 51 pounds last year. The average home lawn measures about 4,000 square feet, and the average fertilizer application runs a little over 12 pounds per 1,000 square feet.
The 43,136,000 home owners applying fertilizer used almost 1.1 million tons last year, Britton reports. The fertilizer industry has become aware of this growing market for its products off the farm. It has been estimated that 15 percent of all fertilizer sold in 1960 was applied for uses outside the traditional farm use.
Britton points out, however, that research is needed to find
out more about the relationships between fertilizing and diseases and
the best way to maintain healthy turf areas, such as in lawns, parks,
golf courses, school grounds, cemeteries and airports.
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U. of I. Publishes New Tenant- to- Landlord Report Book
URBANA — A new book of report forms to aid crop-share tenants and their landlords has just been published by the University of Illi- nois College of Agriculture.
The book provides the crop-share tenant with five report formr to be used during the year to keep his landlord informed of what is hap- pening on the farm.
F. J. Reiss, associate professor of agricultural economics, prepared the book. He points out that regular reports, good business practices and prompt financial settlements help promote good relations between landlord and tenant.
The informed landlord takes more interest and has a better basis for making improvements and sound decisions. Tenants who can make accurate and timely reports earn the confidence of the landlord, he points out.
The first report form, to be prepared by February 1, is really a planning form to be completed by landlord and tenant working together. It shows the acreage planned for each crop, seed needs and the proposed fertility program for the year. The form also provides a place to sug- gest needed improvements, such as buildings, fences or tiling.
The next three forms, prepared by April 15, August 15 and December 31, are primarily financial reports. They provide spaces to show items for which the tenant owes the landlord and the landlord owes
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the tenant. There is also space to report conditions of growing crops, yields on crops harvested and needed repairs.
In the fifth and final report, due at the end of the year, the tenant reports crop yields, production and inventories of landlord's crops on hand.
The report- form book has a. three-year supply of the five forms used each year. The original copies are perforated for easy removal to send to the landlord. Carbon paper is supplied along with duplicate forms so that the tenant can keep a. copy of each report he sends.
Copies of the new book are available for $1.00 each from any
county farm adviser or directly from the Department of Agricultural
Economics, University of Illinois, Urban a.
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Winter Fertilizer Application "equals Spring on Sorr.s Soils
URBANA — Winter applications of nitrogen often give yields equal to those from spring or summer applications, according to L. T. Kurtz, University of Illinois agronomist.
In five of seven experiments in northern Illinois, nitrogen response was similar regardless of time of application and kind of nitrogen used. However, one of the main drawbacks to early application is that available forms of nitrogen readily disappear from some soils.
Kurtz points out that every pound of nitrogen fertilizer will not necessarily appear in the crop or stay in the soil until the crop is ready for it. At high nitrogen levels there are often losses in efficiency, Kurtz says.
The scientist tested winter, spring and summer applications of fertilizers with two different forms of nitrogen, ammonium sulfate and nitrate.
Kurtz found that winter applications of nitrogen, regardless of the form used, work well on the moderately heavy soils in northern Illinois. However, winter applications should not be made on sandy or poorly drained soils.
Many farmers like to apply fertilizer during the winter be- cause it helps distribute the work load throughout the year. Also, some fertilizer dealers offer reduced prices at that time.
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Turkey Growers Announce Plans for Annual Meeting
URBANA — Illinois turkey growers will travel to the University of Illinois campus on February 23 for the annual state Turkey Growers' Association meeting.
The program will highlight three special subject-matter areas, reports U. of I. poultry specialist S. F. Ridlen. They are (1) a turkey merchandising workshop, (2) the turkey outlook for 1961 and (3) a panel discussion of turkey diseases.
Speakers include a number of University staff members, turkey growers and officials of the National Turkey Federation. In addition, Lloyd Geil, general manager of the Poultry and Egg National Board, Zhicago, will speak.
The program begins at 10 a.m. in 135 Animal Sciences Labora- tory, Urbana. The annual banquet climaxes the meeting at 6:30 in Latzer Hall.
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IEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20- Inch Corn Rows Show No Advantage; High Population Cut Yields
URBANA — Corn planted in rows 20 inches wide with a high plant food application yielded about the same as conventional 40-inch rows in 1960 tests at the University of Illinois agronomy research farm.
Agronomist L. B. Miller reports that the corn in 20-inch rows grew taller and was more spindly. Since the weather late in the season was quite favorable, the narrow-row corn stood quite well. But if storms or heavy winds had hit this corn, Miller suspects that they would have broken over more quickly than the corn in the 40- inch rows.
Corn in the 40-inch rows seemed to survive better. With two stalks per hill, the seedlings broke through the soil crust better, Miller observed. The ideal width for corn rows probably lies somewhere between 20 and 40 inches, he points out. Future research will explore this question.
In this experiment the agronomists also planted, at rates of 16,000, 24,000, and 32,000 plants per acre. The 16,000 and 24,000 rates produced the highest yields. Miller believes that, with standard hy- urida now available, the ideal plant population for most farmers will run about 16,000 surviving plants per acre.
All plots had received limstone. One plot received no addi- tional treatment. Other plots received (1) a plow-down application of >00 pounds nitrogen, 250 pounds phosphate and 250 pounds potash per
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acre, and (2) the No. 1 treatment plus 40 tons of manure per acre. Yields were about the same for the fertilized plots and the fertilized plots plus manure.
This result is not surprising, Miller points out. When fer- tility is adequate according to soil tests, adding more plant food doesn't hurt yields, but it doesn't help much either.
Agronomists plan to continue this study for several more
years to watch the effects of heavy fertilization, plant populations
and row widths. The heavy application of organic matter supplied by
the manure might provide a. clue to the effects of continuous corn on
soils given this type of treatment.
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Granular Herbicides Require Well-Adjusted Applicators
URBANA — To use some granular pre-emergence herbicides, you may need a machine so sophisticated that it will sprinkle only five- eighths of an ounce over a row that's 100 feet long and 14 inches wide.
Unfortunately, says Ellery Knake, University of Illinois agronomist, last year many farmers ran into trouble in spreading granu- lar pre-emergence herbicides because the applicators were relatively
new. A considerable amount of adjustment has been made, and more is expected.
When uniformly applied, pre-emergence granulars perform about
the same as spray weed killers, Knake said.
Since granular herbicides do not require water or mixing, some farmers consider them more convenient to use than liquids. They drift less with wind. Some herbicides are irritating to the skin. This problem may be reduced but not eliminated with granulars.
However, the average cost of granular chemicals last year was about 70 cents an acre more than liquids. Then, too, granular herbi- cides require more storage space and handling than sprays.
In fields where weeds cannot be adequately controlled by
cultivation or post-emergence applications of 2,4-D, Knake suggests that farmers try pre-emergence chemicals.
A farmer with spraying equipment should carefully check prices of materials and applicators before changing to granular herbicides.
A farmer who does not have spray or granular equipment for pre-emergence application should also compare prices and equipment care- fully. He may feel that the granular' s extra cost is justified by possible added convenience and safety. But he should make sure that the applicator can be accurately calibrated and that it will apply the granules uniformly.
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Soil Scientist To Study Plant-Opals
URBANA — A University of Illinois soil scientist is starting a.
study of a special kind of opal — called a plant-opal.
While a plant-opal isn't exactly like the usual semi-precious
stone found at jewelry counters, it too contains large amounts of the
lineral, silica.
With information from this basic research, A. H. Beavers,
issociate professor of soil mineralogy, hopes to unlock secrets about
:he kinds of vegetation on prehistoric landscapes.
Also, the results of the investigation may be valuable in
liscovering silica's role in plant nutrition.
The type and number of plant-opals found should be a big help
n telling scientists the amount of weathering that has taken place, in
'in-pointing a soil's age and the vegetative history of a specific soil,
The study is to be supported by a two-year $21,400 grant to
he University from the National Science Foundation.
Plant-opals are microscopic grains composed mostly of silica
nd small amounts of other elements absorbed by the growing plant.
nee formed in plants, these particles become part of the soil when the
lant dies.
Plant-opals are found, in all prairie grasses, such as big
luestem and Indian grass, as well as in corn and oats.
Working with Beavers is R. L. Jones, a doctorate candidate in
oil mineralogy.
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35 Counties Not Represented in U. of I. Ag Freshman Class
URBANA — A disappointing total of 35 Illinois counties is not represented by freshman men in the University of Illinois College of Agriculture this year.
Associate Dean Karl E. Gardner says that he's even more dis- appointed that county tuition scholarships were not awarded in 52 counties.
These scholarships pay tuition of $150 a year for four years.
They are awarded on a competitive basis to students entering the College of Agriculture.
These facts trouble Gardner and other college officials who realize that farm youth comprise only 6.4 percent of all college stu- dents around the nation. Yet the rural farm population comprises 11 percent of U. S. total population.
Gardner points out that many farm boys are not able to farm after high school graduation. A college education is their key to good jobs with status and above-average salaries.
Some of the counties not sending freshmen this year are in
southern Illinois. But several northern counties, including Will, Lee,
Bureau and Henderson, are not represented, either.
Many other northern and central counties have only one or two freshmen enrolled. Some of them include Boone, Carroll, Ogle, Kendall, jasalle, Mercer, Grundy, Kankakee, Putnam, Peoria, Woodford, Fulton, Douglas and Sangamon.
Farm boys interested in information about agricultural careers should attend the College's Ag Student Guest Day. It's planned in con- junction with the Farm and Home Festival, Saturday, April 8.
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IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sees Trend to Cow Herds in Corn Belt, Great Lakes Region
URBANA — A. L. Neumann, head of the University of Illinois beef cattle division, believes that beef cow herds will begin increas- ing in the Corn Belt and Great Lakes region.
"This trend is necessary to supply more feeder cattle to this area, H says Neumann. He explains that new feedlots, increased size of present feedlots, and switch-overs from cow herds to feeding operations have made feeder cattle scarce.
Too, midwestern cattle feeders can no longer depend on the tfest and Southwest to supply feeder cattle. A heavy increase in cattle feeding in the West has almost dried up these sources.
The southeast can still produce more feeder cattle, but Neu-
nann feels that the Corn Belt and Great Lakes region must take up the
slack.
Scarcity has also caused the cost to jump. And since the :ost of feeders is so high in relation to prices of fed or slaughter rattle, the farmer's chances of making a consistent profit from price spread are slim.
There's little chance that feeder cattle will become more Plentiful for several years. It's hard for the supply to catch up with :he demand, and the traditional sources are already producing at capac- ty. This leaves feeding margin as the farmer's only chance to make a >rofit.
Gains must be so economical that they will cover all costs md still produce a profit. This means that most farmers should feed waives or light yearling cattle. And they should feed rations contain- ng a lot of cheap roughage. In the Corn Belt, no other crop can equal :orn silage for producing cheap but moderately rapid gains.
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Tranquilizer Increases Feed Efficiency in Illinois Test
URBANA — Although scientists originally developed tranquil- izers to soothe the shattered nerves of man, animal science researchers iave found that they affect beast as well.
For example, a University of Illinois test shows that tran- luilized steers use their feed more efficiently than non-tranquilized jteers. In this particular test, the treated steers were given tran- juilizer implants in combination with stilbestrol, a feed additive that >romotes faster gains.
Beef cattle researcher G. F. Cmarik conducted the test at the Iniversity's Dixon Springs Experiment Station. He used two groups of iteers, both more nervous than usual. Both groups received a stil- estrol implant, but only one group received a tranquilizer implant. Cmarik reports that he saw little, if any, quieting effect n the tranquilized group when a stranger moved through them.
During the first 56 days, however, the tranquilized steers ained about 1/3 pound more per head daily than the non-tranquilized teers. At the 56-day mark, the tranquilized group received another ranquilizer implant.
After that, the difference in gains between the two groups egan shrinking. And. by the end of the 202-day test, gains were almost he same: 2.09 pounds for untreated steers and 2.05 pounds for tran- uilized steers.
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For every 100 pounds of gain, untreated steers required a total of 1,343 pounds of feed. The tranquilized steers, however, re- quired only 1,288 pounds, a substantial difference of 55 pounds. Both groups, of course, received the same ration: a complete self- fed ra- tion consisting of ground ear corn, hay and soybean meal.
Costs of gain averaged $21.09 per head for the tranquilized steers, but $22.01 for the untreated steers, a difference of 92 cents.
The net market value of the tranquilized steers, less their feed costs, averaged $209.97. For each non-tranquilized steer, the average was $194.33.
Tranquilized steers also returned $11.41 per head above feed costs and their cost as feeder steers. On the other hand, untreated steers returned an average of $7.94.
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Hog Show Allows Farmers to Check Carcass Data.
EAST ST. LOUIS — The annual hog show at the National Stock Yards March 1 will give farmers a chance to check important carcass data for their hogs.
H. G. Russell, University of Illinois livestock specialist, reports that hogs will first be judged on the hoof. Carcass judging will follow. This procedure lets farmers see whether their hogs are producing desirable meat- type carcasses.
Some 30 cash prizes totaling about $300 and 20 ribbons will be awarded by the St. Louis and East St. Louis Chambers of Commerce. The show is sponsored by the National Stock Yards in cooperation with the Extension Services of the Universities of Illinois and Missouri.
Anyone is welcome to come.
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Conclude Extension Review Conferences
URBANA — Dean and Director Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture said today that the series of area "review conferences" with county staffs of the Cooperative Extension Service and local leaders had been "highly successful."
The series of 10 conferences ended Friday with a meeting in Jacksonville. Participants in the area discussions included presidents Df the local county farm and home bureaus, officers of the county agri- :ultural and home economics extension councils, county farm and home advisers and assistants and representatives from the administrative staff of the Cooperative Extension Service.
Previous meetings had been held at Urbana, Lincoln, Effingham, Idwardsville, Carbondale, Carmi, Yorkville, Oregon and Galesburg.
Dean Howard pointed out that these conferences are held each rear to review with local cooperating groups the on-going programs and •roblems of the Extension Service.
Discussions this year, he said, were focused on methods of inancing extension work at the county level, administrative responsi- ilities of the county extension councils and county farm and home ad- isers, the relationship and responsibilities of the Extension Service ith respect to the U. S. Department of Agriculture in carrying on edu- ational programs, and the legal framework through which the Extension ervice accepts grants from county farm and home bureaus and other local upporting groups.
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"Illinois has been extremely fortunate through the years," Dean Howard emphasized, "in having the closest possible working rela- rionship with local leaders and cooperating groups at the county level. Ct is most desirable, and in fact necessary, to continue this coopera- :ion in the future.
"Much of the credit for the success of our extension program
mst go to the county farm and home bureaus through their voluntary
financial grants to the University of Illinois. These voluntary grants
;upplement available funds from state and federal sources. Without
his support, the Extension Service would need to request additional
tate appropriations of more than $1% million annually to carry on the
>rogram. "
At the same time, Dean Howard paid tribute to the work of the ounty extension councils, which work with the farm and home advisers n planning and carrying out the extension program in the respective ounties. Council members, appointed by Dean Howard, serve without ompensation.
The importance of local support and participation also was tressed by the extension administrative representatives at the confer- nces who reviewed the early history and development of extension work n Illinois.
Assistant Directors W. D. Murphy and Martha Dunlap pointed ut that extension work was established in Illinois a number of years efore either federal or state funds were made available for the estab- ishment of the Extension Service as such. These early efforts, they mphasized, were clearly the result of the efforts of interested eaders at the local level.
Looking to the future, Associate Director Jack Claar reassured he participants that the Extension Service had every intention of con- inuing to operate within the framework of local support and local uidance.
"Extension would cease to be a real service to the people, " laar said, "if it should ever lose or give away this vital local guid- nce. It is our intention to see that we never do."
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HEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
h/ERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Raising Soybean Support Price Would Be Serious Mistake, Economist Warns
URBANA — Raising the 1961 support price on soybeans to $2.30 as proposed by Secretary of Agriculture Freeman would be a serious mis- take, a University of Illinois grain marketing economist warned today.
T. A. Hieronymus stated that raising the support price now would be reversing a sound policy that has worked.
Here is how Hieronymus sizes up the current soybean situation:
The policy initiated by soybean growers and carried out by the USDA since 1954 has been to set support prices low enough for com- petitive market prices to guide and regulate soybean production and use. As a result of this policy, the market for soybeans has shown tremendous growth.
Soybean use in the 1953-54 crop year totaled 278 million bushels. In the 1959-60 year, the market absorbed 572 million bushels, more than double the amount six years earlier. In 1960-61 use will run about 570 million bushels, the available supply.
The wisdom of the policy since 1954 cannot be disputed. There is no surplus, prices are high and use has doubled. The record shows that the market can set prices to guide production and use better than government can.
A larger acreage is called for in 1961. But there are better ways to encourage an increase than by raising the support price. It is
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not just the government that is saying we need more soybeans in 1961. Current market prices are also saying it.
Soybean growers also believe that raising the soybean price support would be unwise. They have seen the difference between policies followed with soybeans and other crops. They know that soybean price support policies have worked while other support programs have failed. While surpluses have mounted in feed grains and wheat, soybean produc- tion has risen and yet the larger supplies have been used up.
Hieronymus urges all soybean growers to write their congress- men and let them know how they feel on this matter. It is Congress that writes the laws that the U. S. Department of Agriculture must carry out, he concludes.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. of I. Announces Plans for Ag Student Guest Day
URBANA — High school students planning a career in agriculture will head for the University of Illinois' Ag Student Guest Day Saturday, April 8.
Sponsored by the College of Agriculture, the Guest Day pro- gram covers admissions, costs, scholarships, loans, housing, campus life and, most important, careers.
The program starts at 9:00 a.m. with a short welcoming talk by University President David D. Henry. Assistant Dean C. D. Smith follows with a discussion of college expenses and financial aids. Then Kenneth McMillan, freshman from Prairie City, describes "My First Year as an Illini."
Donald Meyer, a graduating senior from Lebanon, will give tips on "Working Your Way Through College." Associate Dean Karl E. Gardner wraps up the general session with a dynamic talk called "Opportunities Unlimited."
Then the Guest Day students will divide into the following interest groups: (1) plant sciences, (2) animal sciences, (3) economics and industries, (4) education and journalism, (5) engineering, (6) for- estry, (7) veterinary medicine and (8) food and dairy technology.
All students, teachers and parents are invited to attend the Guest Day, which is held on the last day of the Farm and Home Festival. After the program, students will have plenty of time to see the Festival exhibits.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Emergency Planning Committee Organized
SPRINGFIELD — The U. S. Department of Agriculture has organized a state emergency planning committee in Illinois to develop and carry out planning essential to meet food needs in national emergencies.
J. A. Ewing, statistician in charge of the Illinois Coopera- tive Crop Reporting Service, Springfield, has been appointed state chairman.
Under the National Plan for Civil Defense and Defense Mobi- lization, the U. S. Department of Agriculture is responsible for (1) production, processing, storage and distribution of food; (2) pre- vention and control of fires in rural areas; (3) protection of livestock and crops against biological and chemical warfare; and (4) protection of agricultural resources from radioactive fallout.
Each agency of the Department of Agriculture has special functions in this program, Ewing points out. The purpose of emergency planning committees is not to alarm people suddenly or unnecessarily. But everyone must recognize that we live in an atomic age subject to nuclear attack or accidents in peaceful use of atomic energy. The present emergency planning will be carried out as part of the regular work of various agencies. It can be compared with the practices fol- lowed by pioneers breaking the prairie sod, who carried their guns to the field as "built-in readiness" against Indian attack, Ewing explains.
To carry out emergency planning work throughout the state, committees have been appointed from the federal agricultural agencies
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in each county. These include the Federal Extension Service represented by the county farm adviser, the Farmers Home Administration, Soil Con- servation Service, Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Committee (ASC) , the Forest Service and the Agricultural Research Service.
Other members of the state committee are Willard E. Upp, state administrative officer for the Illinois State ASC Committee, Spring- field; B. B. Clark, State Conservationist, Soil Conservation Service, Champaign; John P. Janus, Administrative Officer for Agricultural Mar- keting Service, Chicago; George H. Reuss, State Director, Farmers Home Administration, Champaign; Paul J. St. Amant, Forest Supervisor, Harrisburg; E. J. Wilson, Agricultural Research Service, Springfield; and John B. Claar, Associate Director of Extension, University of Illi- nois, Urbana.
(Note to editor: Chairmen of county committees are listed, on
the attached sheet.)
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COUNTY EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN IN ILLINOIS
ADAMS COUNTY
ASC Harold B. Markley
ALEXANDER- PULASKI COUNTY
SCS James C. Gillooly
BOND COUNTY
FA R. C. Broom
BOONE COUNTY
FA W. E. Reynolds
BROWN COUNTY
FA A. Wo Haas
BUREAU COUNTY
ASC Verner R. Heaton
CALHOUN COUNTY
FA R. Randell
CARROLL COUNTY
FA B. W. Hutchins
CASS COUNTY
ASC Alvin D. Dobernus
CHAMPAIGN COUNTY
ASC Frank H. Schoone
CHRISTIAN COUNTY
FHA Ralph E. Adkins
CLARK COUNTY
ASC Robert E. Seed
CLAY COUNTY
FHA Joe S. Sailor
CLINTON COUNTY
SCS Donald W. Hopkins
COLES COUNTY
SCS Joseph K. Johnson
COOK COUNTY
FA
C. F. Mees
CRAWFORD COUNTY
FA
A. B. Lahr
CUMBERLAND COUNTY
FA
J. C. Slaton
DE KALB COUNTY
FA
E. E. Golden
DE WITT COUNTY
ASC Orval Sprague
DOUGLAS COUNTY
ASC Julian E. Thoman
DU PAGE COUNTY
FA W. E. Schmidt
EDGAR COUNTY
ASC Clarence W. Gumm
EDWARDS COUNTY
ASC Vernon D. Mason
ASC - Agricultural Stabilization and Conservation Committee SCS - Soil Conservation Service FHA - Farmers Home Administration FA - Farm Adviser FS - Forest Service
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EFF INGHAM COUNTY
FA C. S. Cutright
FAYETTE COUNTY
FA J. B. Turner
FORD COUNTY
FA A. B. Rowand
FRANKLIN COUNTY
ASC Theodore R. Tiber end
FULTON COUNTY
FA F. L. Sharp
GALLATIN COUNTY
FA
E. M. Lutz
GREENE COUNTY
ASC Harry M. Combrink
GRUNDY COUNTY
FHA Vincent L. Brandow
HAMILTON COUNTY
FA F. W. Kittinger
HANCOCK COUNTY
ASC Briscoe N. Menke
HENDERSON COUNTY
FA J. c. Eisenmayer
HENRY COUNTY
ASC Lloyd L. Engnell
IROQUOIS COUNTY
ASC Emery J. Baron
JACKSON COUNTY
ASC Claude A. Terry
JASPER COUNTY
ASC Homer E. Griffith
JEFFERSON COUNTY
FA D. 0. Lee
JERSEY COUNTY
SCS Geo. T. Threlkeld
JO DAVIESS COUNTY
FA H. K. Ross
JOHNSON COUNTY
FS J. T. Turner
KANE COUNTY
ASC Ralph E. Williams
KANKAKEE COUNTY
SCS Reece L. Ayers
KENDALL COUNTY
FA J. H. Jacobs
KNOX COUNTY
ASC Everett Leigh
LAKE COUNTY
FA R„ T. Nicholas
LA SALLE COUNTY
SCS R. H. Tomlinson
LAWRENCE COUNTY
SCS John C. Baker
LEE COUNTY
FA J. T. Somers
LIVINGSTON COUNTY
ASC Al J. Somers
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LOGAN COUNTY
FHA Grant Kinsey
MC DONOUGH COUNTY
ASC 01 lie F. DeGarmo
MC HENRY COUNTY
ASC Walter E. Austin
MC LEAN COUNTY
ASC Ernest R. Schirch
MACON COUNTY
ASC Howard R. Culp
MACOUPIN COUNTY
FA O. O. Mowery
MADISON COUNTY
FA T. W. May
MARION COUNTY
ASC Lee D. Britt
MARSHALL- PUTNAM COUNTY
FA H. D. McLaughlin
MASON COUNTY
ASC Fred Leithoff
MASSAC COUNTY
SCS Edward Trovillion
MENARD COUNTY
FA H. E. Short
MERCER COUNTY
ASC Daniel P. Seastrand
MONROE COUNTY
ASC Herman W. Eitmann
MONTGOMERY COUNTY
ASC Nora B. Crow
MORGAN COUNTY
ASC Wallace T. Hembrough
MOULTRIE COUNTY
ASC Or la O. Kimbrough
OGLE COUNTY
FA H. H. Fulkerson
PEORIA COUNTY
ASC Patrick J. Doyle
PERRY COUNTY
ASC Robert L. Lunnemann
PIATT COUNTY
FA
A. C. Kamm
PIKE COUNTY ASC Merlyn Ho Barton POPE-HARDIN COUNTY FA C. E. Taylor
RANDOLPH COUNTY
ASC Jerry L. Coldwell
RICHLAND COUNTY
FA Glenn I. Ash
ROCK ISLAND COUNTY
FA A. J. Mullen
ST. CLAIR COUNTY
FA Denver C. Corn
SALINE COUNTY
ASC Grant Mings
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SANGAMON COUNTY
FA Edwin Bay
SCHUYLAR COUNTY
FA W. C. Funk
SCOTT COUNTY
ASC Harold H. Kilver
SHELBY COUNTY
ASC Wm. J. Miller
STARK COUNTY
SCS Frank J. Biba
STEPHENSON COUNTY
FHA Robert J. Remington
TAZEWELL COUNTY
FA W. A. Bouslog
UNION COUNTY
ASC Hazel V. Hankla
VERMILION COUNTY
ASC Charles E. Williamson
WABASH COUNTY
SCS Lawrence Ellis
WARREN COUNTY
FA Stanley S. Sims
WASHINGTON COUNTY
FA W. D. Smith
WAYNE COUNTY
FA Fred J. Holhubner
WHITE COUNTY
ASC Robert F. Miller
WHITESIDE COUNTY
FA Fred A. Tincher
WILL COUNTY
FA A» A. Wicklein
WILLIAMSON COUNTY
FA C. W. Hoelscher
WINNEBAGO COUNTY
FA Richard G. Kerr
WOODFORD COUNTY
ASC Victor O. Malcom
2/27/61
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE
Report Changes in Illinois Livestock Enterprises
URBANA — Average size of Illinois livestock enterprises rose more rapidly during the late 1950' s than in the earlier part, a recent report by University of Illinois agricultural economists R. J. Mutti and P. A. Gill discloses.
The average turkey flock was four times larger in 1959 than in 1949. The average size of swine, beef cattle and egg production enterprises doubled.
A small percentage of the farms have a high proportion of the livestock. For example, the report shows that less than four percent of the farms raising hogs accounted for about 18 percent of all sows farrowing. Four percent of the farms handling grain-fed cattle mar- keted 30 percent of the cattle. Less than 6 percent of the farms with dairy cows had 26 percent of the cows and heifers kept for milk. Four percent of the farms with hens and pullets accounted for 24 percent of
the birds.
The number of Illinois farms disposing of dairy herds
and laying flocks has been especially high.
The greatest share of large-scale hog enterprises are in the northwestern, western and southwestern areas of the state. The north- east and northwest have the largest share of large-scale grain-fed cattle and dairy operations. Substantial numbers of large enterprises, however, exist in every area of the state.
A detailed report on the relative importance of five different sizes of livestock enterprises and changes in each of nine districts of the state is given in AERR-41, "Distribution of Livestock Among Dif- ferent Sizes of Enterprises Within Illinois." Copies are available on request from the Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Illinois, Urban a.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Good Management — Best Way To Fight Salmonella Bacteria
Careful management is not only the cheapest, but the best way farmers can fight salmonella bacteria, organisms causing fowl typhoid, paratyphoid and pullorum.
Dr. D. P. Rahn, University of Illinois animal pathologist, points out that, without careful management, poultry can die overnight from these diseases. Animals are not the only victims, however, as salmonella bacteria can cause food poisoning in man,
"You can prevent these diseases by keeping poultry away from hogs and other farm animals that harbor salmonella bacteria," Dr. Rahn told the recent convention of Illinois State Turkey Growers. "And if you've taken care of other animals first, clean your boots and wash your hands before working with your turkeys."
Salmonella bacteria, a serious threat to poultry every spring, can also be prevented by buying disease-free stock. Knowing the his- tory of the breeding flock the poults came from is extremely important, Dr. Rahn said.
If one of your flocks does become infected, raise the infected birds separately. This, according to Dr. Rahn, prevents the disease from spreading. Other precautions include keeping infected birds warm and the area clean, and frequently collecting and disposing of dead birds.
"Although it's best to sell a flock after it's been cured, it's not always practical," Dr. Rahn admitted to the convention. "But,
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if you're going to save the flock for breeders, begin a blood-testing program. "
The blood test, according to Dr. Rahn, is successful only if you use the particular type of salmonella bacteria that infected your flock. This explains the importance of having a veterinarian or labo- ratory make a definite diagnosis.
After giving the blood test, remove all birds that reacted to the test. Then wait one month and test the birds again. Follow this procedure until no birds react to the test.
Blood testing is the only way to find out which birds still carry or are infected by salmonella bacteria, according to Dr. Rahn. Carriers are birds that have successfully combated the disease, but that still carry the organisms. "Remember," Dr. Rahn warned, "drugs do not eliminate carriers."
Besides being transmitted by carrier birds, salmonella bacteria may infect poultry in three other ways:
1. The poult may be infected before hatching. When the in- fection is in the hen's ovary, bacteria can pass into the yolk of the developing egg.
When the hen's intestines are infected, salmonella bacteria in the feces can penetrate the unbroken eggshell during expulsion.
2. Birds can be infected by eating feed containing salmonella organisms.
3. Birds can be infected by eating feces of rats, mice and free-flying birds. These can harbor salmonella organisms for mo-.iths.
Infected birds may or may not show symptoms. "Often the only symptom is a dead bird," Dr. Rahn, said. The death rate is highest among poults and death comes within five days after the poult is infected.
If the bird survives a few days, these symptoms may appear: The bird's wings droop, and its feathers become ruff led. Also, the bird is unthrifty, weak, loses its appetite and usually has diarrhea.
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FOR RELEASE WEEK OF MARCH 6, 1961
Festival Exhibit to Feature Soil Test Demonstration
During the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival April 6-8, soil scientists will demonstrate a modern electronic instru- ment that tells whether or not the soil is acid.
This instrument, known as a pH meter, measures soil acidity. By direct reading it is possible to tell the amount of limestone needed to correct the acid condition.
The pH meter has come into use in Illinois soil testing labo- ratories in the past year, reports J. C. Laverty, University of Illinois soil scientist. Previously the need for limestone was determined by a visual test. Although this older test has done a good job, Laverty feels that the use of electronic testing equipment will reduce the possibilities for error.
Visitors to the Farm and Home Festival will have an opportu- nity to see how soil is tested with the pH meter. Those who bring a sample of soil with them can get a free pH test right on the spot.
During the afternoon speaking program on Friday, April 7,
Laverty will report on "Recent Modifications in Illinois Soil Testing."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Urges Production of Higher Quality Lambs
URBANA — u. S. Garrigus, head of the University of Illinois sheep division, says that greater profits await sheepmen who produce higher quality lambs.
More than 75 percent of the gross income from midwestern sheep flocks now comes from lamb sales. In short, more and more con- sumers are demanding young, meaty lambs.
The revolution in chain store merchandising is speeding up this trend. At one time meat packers distributed all grades and weights of carcasses through their branch houses to small retailers.
Now the chain stores are swiftly increasing their percentage of total meat sales. They practice "specification buying," which means buying carloads of carcasses of uniform grade and weight. This leaves a declining market for off-sort lambs, so common in midwestern flocks, that sell at various weights and grades.
Garrigus urges farmers to intensify their lamb production so
that they can produce higher quality, more uniform lambs that bring a
higher price.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Swine Day to Feature Report on Flooring for Pigs
URBANA — Hog producers wondering about which type of floor works best for pigs can learn some of the answers at the University of Illinois Swine Day March 28.
A. H. Jensen, swine research worker, will report University studies with steel mesh and concrete. He will also give a progress report on a current study comparing concrete slabs, wood slabs and steel mesh.
Jensen points out that the best type of flooring for growing pigs is not known. If researchers can determine which floors work best under certain conditions, farmers can produce hogs more efficiently.
Other Swine Day reports include ingredients in corn — soybean meal rations, gestation rations for sows and gilts and antibiotics for growing pigs. In addition, outlook specialist L. H. Simerl will report the hog price prospects for 1961. And Dr. J. R. Pickard, College of Veterinary Medicine, will dicuss the University's experiences with specific pathogen- free (SPF) pigs.
The Swine Day program begins at 10 a.m. in the University Auditorium. Early arrivals, however, can inspect swine equipment dis- played in the Stock Pavilion. The program winds up at 3:15 p.m.
Area Swine Days, similar to the Urban a Swine Day, will be held at Mt. Vernon, Carlinville, Rushville, Knoxville and Amboy. Watch this
newspaper for more detailed information about them.
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Evaporation Losses High
URBANA — Under normal conditions, 50 percent or more of the water lost during the growing season is due to evaporation from the soil surface.
Two University of Illinois soil scientists, M. B. Russell, head of the department of agronomy, and D. B. Peters, soil physicist, are looking for ways to cut down the evaporation so that water would seldom be a problem in Illinois.
The researchers covered the soil surface with water-proof plastic, stopping the loss of water by evaporation in several corn and soybean plots. Then the only water loss was through transpiration, or plant breathing. The plastic-covered plots used only about half as much water as the uncovered plots.
Nearly all of our soils retain enough water to meet these transpiration needs, Russell and Peters said. So if some practical method could be devised to prevent or greatly reduce evaporation from the soil, water would rarely be a problem.
When the soil surface is moist, increasing the number of plants per acre has only a minor effect on total water use. However, when the soil surface has been dry for some time, high plant populations can increase water use to the critical point.
In Illinois each acre of land receives 3,000 to 5,000 tons of water a year. About 80 percent of it is returned to the atmosphere by evaporation from the ground and transpiration from leaf surfaces of
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growing plants. Under Illinois conditions, it would take 200 or 300 tons of coal or 50,000 gallons of gasoline a year to supply as much energy as is used in evaporation and transpiration on each acre of land.
Since there are seasonal variations in water use as well as in rainfall, the basic problem in water management is to supply the extra water needed during the summer. To do this, the soil has to store some of the excess water from the rest of the year.
To find out how water reserves in the subsoil affect corn yields, the researchers covered some plots with plastic during the fall and winter. This kept the subsoil from storing excess water. Yields were substantially lower on these plots than on adjacent plots where the subsoil had been completely recharged with water by fall and winter rains.
Small irrigations that only moistened the topsoil did not overcome the yield deficiency. And at the same time total water use increased.
Soils differ a great deal in their ability to store and retain available moisture. Sandy soils do not retain much moisture. Summer rainfall is much more vital on these soils than on the finer textured soils.
Just as important are the soil's properties which can limit the root" s size. Some Illinois soils have such dense subsoils that it is difficult or impossible for roots to penetrate them in search of subsoil water.
Russell and Peters discussed their research work on water use
by row crops in an article in the recent issue of ILLINOIS RESEARCH.
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Expect Lower Prices for 1961 Turkey Crop
URBANA — A University of Illinois agricultural economist this week reported some good news for those who like turkey. But for those who grow the turkeys, the news is not quite so good.
According to James R. Roush, turkey growers are expected to produce at least 14 percent more turkeys in 1961 than they did last year. More of these turkeys will be from the heavy breeds, and that will also add to the supply of turkey meat.
On top of a larger 1961 crop, there is 40 percent more turkey in cold storage from last year's crop than was held a year ago.
Population growth won't help the market for this year's tur- key crop very much, Roush points out. Population has been rising only about 2 percent a year. This is far below the expected boost in 1961 turkey production. Rising supplies of chicken and red meats will also hold down turkey prices.
Turkey growers can expect to sell their birds for 3 to 4 cents a pound below last year, Roush believes. Prices may decline early in the season if those people holding birds in storage decide to sell them rather than hold until the larger supplies of new-crop turkeys move to market.
Roush spoke before the recent annual meeting of the Illinois
Turkey Growers Association.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
33E
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farmers Spend Millions For Unnecessary Drugs
URBANA — One Illinois farmer lost $25,000 because he took the advice of friends who recommended the wrong drugs for his poultry.
Another farmer who had successfully wiped out all traces of blackhead wasted $15,000 last year in an attempt to control diseases that didn ' t even exist on his farm.
Million of dollars are spent needlessly each year on unneces- sary drugs and vaccines, according to Dr. J. 0. Alberts, University of Illinois veterinarian.
"Because farmers don't realize that many diseases look alike, they often make the wrong diagnosis," he explained. "Or if they've never seen the symptoms, they'll seek advice from the neighbor down the road or others not fully informed."
This, according to Dr. Alberts, is the wrong approach. Only qualified personnel, such as a veterinarian or diagnostic laboratory, have the knowledge and equipment to make an accurate diagnosis.
As an example of wasted efforts, Dr. Alberts told of a farmer who owned 16,000 turkeys. When the birds began dying, the farmer ad- ministered medicine recommended by friends who guessed at the disease. Seven weeks later some 10,000 turkeys had died.
"This farmer lost $25,000 in birds — not to mention the cost of medication and his time — before he came to the lab for an accurate
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diagnosis," Dr. Alberts said. "Such losses would not have occurred if the correct diagnosis had been made the first week."
No more than 4 percent of the bird's total market value should be spent on medications and vaccines, according to Dr. Alberts. And this figure will decrease within the next 10 years. Farmers who spend more than 10 cents on medication and vaccines for each turkey marketed, 20 cents a year per breeder turkey, 2 cents per broiler chicken and 5 cents a year per laying hen will not only be spending too much, but risking a profit.
These figures indicate the importance of making an accurate diagnosis of disease and taking prompt and proper action to control it, "An experienced flock owner can guess diseases about 50 percent of the time," Dr. Alberts admitted. "But veterinarians have a much higher percentage of accuracy. By performing a. post-mortem examination and knowing the flock's history and behavior, the veterinarian can accu- rately identify diseases in 70 to 75 percent of the outbreaks. And when the veterinarian uses his own or another diagnostic laboratory, he's accurate 90 to 95 percent of the time.
"Drugs used at the right time are valuable crutches, "
Dr. Alberts said. "But farmers must recognize their limitations."
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Record Number of Students Wind Up Aq Short Course
URBANA — A record number of students are wrapping up their last week of study (March 13) at the University of Illinois Winter Short Course in Agriculture.
This year ' s enrollment of 102 was a sharp increase from 84 last year and 76 in 1959. Forty- four Illinois counties and the state of Pennsylvania are represented.
Highlighting this final week will be the annual Short Course Banquet March 13, sponsored by the Illinois Agricultural Association. During the banquet the 29 boys who received short course scholarships will be recognized. The Illinois FFA Foundation and member banks of the Illinois Bankers Association awarded the scholarships.
The College of Agriculture offers the short course to farm boys who cannot attend college on a regular basis. Most of the boys graduated from high school one or two years ago, but anyone over 18 years old may attend.
Miss Sally Lockwood, Springfield, added the only feminine touch to this year's short course.
Of the 20 courses offered, the most popular are farm manage- ment, soil management and swine feeding and management. Although the boys are a little hesitant to admit it, they also rate dating, engage- ment and marriage as a favorite course.
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Plant Scientist Receives Science Foundation Grant
URBANA — A University of Illinois plant scientist has received a three-year $43,500 grant from the National Science Foundation to con- tinue research on the effects of growth regulators.
John B. Hanson, professor of plant physiology, said that many widely used weed killers, such as 2,4-D, are plant growth regulators. Even though 2,4-D is a highly successful broad-leaf weed killer, scien- tists do not know exactly how it works.
2,4-D causes abnormal growth in plant cells which leads to the plant's death.
By investigating changes in the cytoplasm, the living material within plant cells, Hanson hopes to understand some of the reasons for the effects of growth regulators. Then, too, from this type of research information, better weed killers may be developed.
The title of Hanson's research is "Effect of Plant Growth Regu- lators on the Metabolic Activities of Subcellular Particles From Plant Tissues. "
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
Diversity of Illinois college of agriculture urbana, Illinois
Special
Dean Howard Pays Tribute to George H. Dungan
URBANA — George H. Dungan, 73, University of Illinois professor of agronomy emeritus, died suddenly at his home in Urbana on March 12, 1961. He had served on the University staff from 1917 until his retire- ment in 1955.
He graduated from the U. of I. in 1917 and received an M.S. degree in botany in 1921. He received a Ph.D. degree in plant physi- ology and plant pathology from the University of Wisconsin in 1925.
Since 1958 he had served as executive secretary of the Illi- nois Seed Dealers Association. He had also worked part time with the Illinois Cooperative Crop Reporting Service. He was a visiting pro- fessor of agriculture at Southern Illinois University in 1957. From 1953 to 1955 he was assigned to Allahabad, India, under the University's cooperative program with the International Cooperation Administration.
Dungan authored and co-authored three books on crop production and many scientific papers. He was a member of the American Society of Agronomy, American Society of Plant Physiologists and numerous scholas- tic and scientific honorary organizations.
Dean Louis B. Howard of the U. of I. College of Agriculture made this statement in tribute: "George Dungan ' s passing has taken from us a man whose every acquaintance was a close friend. His students, his associates on the faculty and those who knew him throughout the
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state all held him in high respect for his teaching competence, his
research contributions and his quiet and friendly way of conveying the
urge to live a better and more effective life.
"His two-year assignment in India extended in full measure
these same talents on an international basis. His contributions to
the improvement of agriculture through some 38 years at the College of
Agriculture will leave us ever grateful for his dedicated service to
the University and to his fellowmen."
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IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lower Prices Cut I960 Cattle- Feeding Returns/ Report Shows
URBANA — Lower fed cattle prices dropped 1960 feeding returns sharply below those of 1959 for Illinois farmers.
In the 22nd annual feeder cattle report issued this week, University of Illinois agricultural economist A. G. Mueller reports that farmers received $1.50 to $2.50 a hundred pounds less for cattle they sold in 1960 than in 1959.
The average price paid for feeders in the fall of 1959 was considerably above the price received for fat cattle. This large nega- tive price spread was a major cause of the lower returns experienced by cattle feeders. Feeding margins, the difference between costs of gain and selling price of the cattle, averaged $1 to $2 a hundred pounds lower last year than the year before.
Mueller reports that the returns for the long-fed calf and yearling programs were only about enough to cover feed and purchase costs, leaving little or no margin for labor, equipment and other cash costs. The short-fed yearling and heavy steer programs showed a margin above feed and purchase costs, but less than in 1958 or 1959.
Farmers following a long-fed good to choice steer calf system averaged only about $7 a head above feed costs. A year ago they had about a $17 return.
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Those who followed a long-fed yearling steer program were 53 cents per hundred pounds short of paying their feed costs. A year earlier they had $22 to cover their other costs.
Returns for those who followed a short-fed yearling steer program averaged about $9 a head compared with $30 a year ago. Those who short- fed good to choice heavy steers averaged about $16 a hundred above feed costs compared with $26 in 1959.
Information in this report was supplied from the farm busi- ness records kept by members of the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Management Service and covers cattle sold during the first 11 months of 1960.
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Corn Borer Activity Depends on Weather
URBANA — Illinois farmers who are anxious about Mr. Corn Borer's 1961 plans had better keep an eye on the weather. Whether or not this damaging insect causes trouble depends entirely on weather conditions and farming practices.
This word of advice comes from H. B. Petty, extension ento- mologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
He reports that certain weather conditions can wipe out borers almost overnight. The following conditions, however, help borers to grow and multiply: (1) cool weather until corn planting time, (2) a mild summer, (3) average or above-average rainfall and (4) calm weather during the corn borer moth flight in June.
Certain farming practices help to control corn borers. Clean plowing, thorough shredding of stalks that are not plowed under, and use of adapted hybrids are three examples.
A recent count showed a smaller than average number of borers spending the winter in Illinois cornfields. This trend has continued for the past four years.
Insect specialists are not sure, however, whether this de- crease means that the borers have reached the low point in their current population trend. If they have, their numbers might increase this year.
The largest number of overwintering borers are located north and west of a line running from St. Louis to Paris. Even in this area the number varies from county to county.
All farmers, however, should keep a sharp watch on early- developing cornfields.
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Governor Kerner Feature Speaker at Farm and Home Festival
URBANA — Governor Otto Kerner will speak to the University of
Illinois Farm and Home Festival on Friday, April 7, in the University
auditorium. His appearance, along with the details on other speakers
and exhibits, is reported in the official Festival program released
this week.
In commenting on the Festival April 6-8, Dean Louis B. Howard
of the College of Agriculture said, "Our three-day program, based on the theme, 'Foundations for the Future, ' includes a variety of features designed to provide pleasure as well as practical information. It also gives us am opportunity to show you how we are using research to improve farming and family living in Illinois."
Four major exhibit areas will feature displays and demonstra- tions— the Agricultural Engineering Buildings, Bevier Hall, Canvas Arena (near the Genetics Building) and Stock Pavilion. Exhibit areas will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursday. On Friday and Saturday exhibit hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Special exhibit pres- entations are offered each day from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Special events during the three-day exposition include the Town and Country Art Show, open house in the Child Development Labora- tory, home economics film showing, College of Agriculture Alumni Asso- ciation meeting, Ag Student Guest Day and Home Economics Hospitality Day on Saturday, April 8, and the Plow-boy Prom on Saturday night.
Copies of the program are available from any county farm or home adviser. Vocational agriculture and high school home economics teachers and senior high school principals have also received copies of the program.
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Career Sessions to Highlight kg Student Guest Day
URBANA — A series of 20 sessions on various agricultural ca- reers highlights the University of Illinois Ag Student Guest Day Satur- day, April 8.
The sessions include crops and soils, floriculture and orna- mental horticulture; horticultural food crops; animal and dairy science; agricultural economics, industries and law; farm operations; agricul- tural education, extension and journalism; agricultural engineering and mechanization; forest production and wood technology; veterinary medi- cine; and dairy and food technology.
High school students attending Guest Day may choose the ses- sions of most interest to them. Each session will be repeated twice so that students may attend more than one.
The program starts at 9 a.m. in the University Auditorium. Several speakers will discuss admissions and costs of attending the University, campus activities and possibilities for students to work their way through college.
The first session on careers runs from 11:00 a.m. to noon.
The second session starts at 2:00 and lasts until 3:00 p.m.
Guest Day is held in conjunction with the College of Agricul- ture's Farm and Home Festival. Students will have plenty of time to see the Festival exhibits after the Guest Day program.
The Home Economics Hospitality Day is also scheduled for Saturday, April 8.
All interested high school students, their parents and friends are invited to attend these functions.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plan Automated "Agricultural Prosperity" Exhibit
URBANA — Blinking lights, bubbling fluid and moving parts con- trolled by automatic electric controls and a tape recorder are being combined to show the "Foundations for Prosperous Agriculture" during the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival April 6-8 at Urbana.
The eye-catching exhibit operates through a complex electrical system with float control valves, air solenoid valves, synchronous motors, air pressure regulators and miscellaneous valves and tubing. But it is designed to show in a simple way the many factors that influ- ence farm product prices and net income and how research is helping to reduce costs and raise farmers' incomes.
The center of the exhibit is a large tank of fluid to repre- sent the total supply of agricultural products. A float in the tank automatically registers changes on the farm product price dial as the fluid supply in the tank moves up or down.
On the production side, combinations of land, labor, capital and management along with imports add to the total supply of agricul- tural products. On the other side, another pipe line drains down the fluid supply as the marketing system operates through assembling, stor- age, processing and merchandising of agricultural products.
When the supply of products rises above a certain point, the exhibit shows the creation of surpluses. As the supply of agricultural
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products drops below the normal level, the surplus stocks move into normal marketing channels.
Tied in with the changes in supply, prices farmers receive and surpluses created, another dial shows the corresponding effects on net income for farmers.
Another lighted dial flashes changes in production costs as farmers improve their efficiency, make adjustments and produce their crops or livestock for lower costs per unit of product. As production costs go down, the net income dial registers an improvement.
On the marketing side, an illuminated marketing cost dial also registers changes that take place.
During the five stages of the fluid and electrical system operation, a tape-recorded message explains what is happening, why prices go up and down, how these changes affect net farm income and how research is helping to improve production and marketing efficiency.
This exhibit is part of the agricultural economics exhibit at
the 1961 Farm and Home Festival. Staff members will be present at all
times to answer questions and discuss the various displays.
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Swine Day to Feature Report on Hygromycin
URBANA — The University of Illinois Swine Day program March 28 will feature a report on hygromycin, an antibiotic used as a worming compound for hogs.
Livestock specialist W. F. Nickelson will report University research that studied hygromycin' s effect on reproduction when included in the rations of pregnant sows and gilts. The research shows that feeding hygromycin to sows has no harmful effect.
Another featured report will be given by Dean Wolf, editor of FARM JOURNAL'S HOGCAST. Wolf and a group of farmers recently toured many outstanding European hog farms. He'll discuss some of the most interesting farms they saw.
Other talks on the program include research reports, the 1961 prospects for hog producers and a discussion of specific pathogen-free (SPF) pigs.
The program gets under way in the University Auditorium at 10 a.m. and winds up at 3:15 p.m. The Hoof and Horn Club will serve lunch.
Similar programs will be held at Area Swine Days around the
state. Dates and locations for these programs are March 29, Mt. Vernon
High School; March 30, Carlinville High School; April 3, Scripps Park
in Rushville; April 4, Knoxville High School; and April 6, Amboy 4-H
Center.
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Soils Need Protection From Insects Every Year
URBANA — An extension entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey, H. B. Petty, reports that many farmers are asking whether they should apply soil insecticides every year.
As a general recommendation, Petty has been answering "yes."
He cites one test field that receives a soil insecticide treatment one year. But the next year only half of the field was treated. The result: the half that was treated in both years had a five percent greater crop stand.
As another example, Petty cites one field that received a double dosage of soil insecticides one year, but none the next. What happened? Cutworms caused such severe damage that the owner replanted the entire field.
Petty points out that there are two soil insects, the northern corn rootworm and the wireworm, that could be effectively controlled by making applications every two or three years. But there are a dozen other destructive insects, such as the corn root aphid and cutworms, that require annual applications to control them.
Petty recommends using aldrin or heptachlor as soil insecti- cides. If they are broadcast, use 1 1/2 pounds per acre. If they are applied in the row at planting time, use only 1 pound per acre.
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College of Agriculture Alumni Schedule Annual Meeting
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture Alumni Association will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, April 6, at 10:30 a.m. in Room 314 Illini Union on the campus. This is the first day of the annual Farm and Home Festival.
Frank Shuman, the featured luncheon speaker, will report his experiences in India and Afghanistan with the International Cooperation Administration and University of Illinois programs. Shuman graduated from the College of Agriculture and served for many years as Whiteside county farm adviser.
Awards for outstanding service will be presented to four agri- culture alumni. New officers and directors will be elected, and com- mittees will report their activities during the morning business session.
Luncheon reservations should be sent to Karl E. Gardner, secretary, 104 Mumford Hall, Urban a, by April 3. Anyone who has ever attended the College of Agriculture is invited.
Association officers and directors for the current year are Fred Hoppin, Lincoln, president; Roy Yung, Springfield, vice-president; Karl Gardner, Urbana, secretary-treasurer; John Morris, Chadwick; Fred Painter, Ottawa; DeVere Mummert, Astoria; Donald Allen, Carrollton; Karl Adams, Bloomington; William Dimond, Lovington; Curt Eckert, Belle- ville; Eldon Powel, Effingham; W. C. Anderson, Marion; Frank Fieber, Albion; Don Wilken, Danforth; and Melvin Sims, Liberty, directors.
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Corn Breeder Suggests More Corn For Special Uses
URBANA — With the present abundance of corn in the United States, a University of Illinois corn breeder suggested this week that breeders devote more attention to developing types of corn for special purposes.
Speaking before a special symposium of breeders, nutritionists and corn-processing industry representatives, R. W. Jugenheimer pointed out that the University of Illinois has been selecting for high oil and protein content for more than 60 years. These high oil and protein characteristics have been incorporated into inbred lines. Commercial hybrids for farm use became available in 1959.
These new high-oil hybrids contain about 30 percent more oil and 10 percent more protein than the average standard commercial hybrids grown by most farmers.
Corn yielding extra amounts of oil could prove valuable to millers, livestock feeders and starch manufacturers, Jugenheimer pointed out. Corn oil is a nutritious food and it also has many industrial uses. It has received both scientific and public attention because of the research on saturated and unsaturated fats and their influence upon cholesterol.
High-oil corn may be a more efficient feed than ordinary corn for livestock. University of Illinois experiments showed that lambs receiving the high-oil corn gained 5 to 6 percent faster on 6 to 7 per- cent less feed.
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Jugenheimer pointed out that one of the problems in the Illi- nois research has been a lack of unrelated strains of high-oil corn. Work is now under way to find additional sources of high oil content. He believes that some of the new strains under development will perform better than the present high-oil inbreds and hybrids.
During the same meeting a chemist with a leading corn milling
company encouraged further research with high-oil corn. S. A. Watson,
Corn Products Co., Argo, reported that the wet milling industry wants
corn with a higher oil content because the demand for corn oil is rising
faster than the demand for starch. The higher value of oil over starch
makes higher oil yields more desirable, he pointed out.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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"Sadie" Adds New Twist To Annual Festival Act
URBANA — "Sadie," the fistulated cow, annually a feature at- traction at the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival, will be on hand again this year. But U. of I. dairy scientists say the huge Holstein has added something new to her usual performance.
Sadie is well known for the fistula or hole in her side which helps scientists keep tab on what happens to the feed she eats once it enters her digestive tract.
Scientists say Sadie has been living with the famous "window" in her side for about four years, providing a wealth of vital informa- tion on rumen digestion. She has shown no ill effects from the plastic- covered opening.
For this year's Festival, dairy scientists have built a spe- cial periscope that will slide through Sadie's window to a point at least 10 inches inside the rumen. This periscope, with the aid of a sealed-beam light, will show what takes place in Sadie's rumen when she takes a drink of water or eats hay or grain.
Dairy scientist Carl Davis says the periscope and light were added this year so that people will have a better view of what happens behind Sadie's amazing window.
Part two of Sadie's show will give Festival visitors a chance to see what live rumen protozoa look like under the microscope.
Dairy scientists will take rumen samples from Sadie, put them on slides under a microscope and then use a projector to flash the image on a motion picture screen for all of the expected 15,000 Festival visitors to see.
Sadie will put on her show throughout the Festival. Dates are April 6, 7 and 8 in Urbana.
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Illinois Dairymen Try Year-Round Drylot Feeding
URBANA — Year-round drylot feeding for dairy cattle, a practice common in many western states for years, is starting to take hold among Illinois dairymen— generally with promising results.
University of Illinois dairy scientist Leo Fryman estimates that more than 40 Illinois dairymen have successfully switched to dry- lot stored feeding.
Fryman says these dairymen agree that the key to a successful summer drylot feeding program is to feed the cows as much high-quality forage as possible.
Last year U. of I. dairy scientists studied records of 24 Illinois dairymen who had had one to three years' experience with year- round drylot feeding.
The records showed that total yearly production was no greater in these herds than in herds on pasture or daily green-chop feeding programs.
But production in the drylot herds was more uniform through- out the year. Fryman says this uniform production was undoubtedly due to the consistently high-quality forage the drylot herds received.
In general, the U. of I. survey showed that the 24 farms on stored feeding used less land to grow the forage for one cow than farms using other summer forage-handling systems.
The advantage in higher yields over daily green-chopping and daily rotational grazing was small. However, the survey showed a con- siderable yield advantage over continuous grazing.
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Fryman says it is impossible to make a flat statement about whether a particular farm should use stored feeding. The kind and amount of equipment on hand for winter feeding; the farm's size, topography and cropping system; herd size; and the amount of labor available must all be carefully considered in making a decision.
One way to approach the problem is to consider that when less land is required to grow forage for the herd, more land will be avail- able to grow high-cash-value crops. Income from these crops will add to the gross income from the farm.
But Fryman warns that the extra income from these crops must be more than enough to pay for the extra equipment and labor required in a stored-feeding program.
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HOGCAST Editor To Appear On U. of I. Swine Day Program
URBANA — Dean Wolf, editor of FARM JOURNAL'S HOGCAST, will describe highlights of his recent tour of European hog farms at the Uni- versity of Illinois Swine Day March 28.
Wolf led a group of 41 U. S. hog men, including 10 wives, on the tour last fall. They visited 13 of the best hog farms and five top research centers in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, England and northern Ireland. One farm the group toured finishes 19,000 hogs a year, using the amazing "hot house" method. The owner crowds hogs into tight houses without ventilation. And the pigs literally live in a steam bath. European research men say that hot, humid conditions in the hot house prevent such diseases as pneumonia.
A German farmer they visited raises about 14,000 hogs a year on one farm and finishes out 22,500 hogs on another. On the one farm he averages 80 to 90 percent conception, 9.8 pigs per litter and 2.3 litters per sow per year and produces 1 pound of gain on 2.7 pounds of feed.
On the other farm he produces five tons of pork per acre, feeding only a combination of silages, such as sugar beets, cooked potato silage and a ryegrass that yields 46 tons per acre when grown in barley harvested for grain.
Wolf will illustrate his report of these and other farms with color slides. He'll also describe the experiences of Danish and Swedish
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farmers in creating a market for pork by producing a top-quality, uni- form product tailored to meet consumer preferences.
Reports of University swine research studies will also be presented during the program. Four examples include (1) controlling heat periods of sows and gilts, (2) types of flooring for growing pigs, (3) antibiotics for growing swine and (4) ingredients in corn — soybean meal rations.
The programs starts at 10 a.m. in the University Auditorium and winds up at 3:15 p.m.
Similar programs will be presented at Area Swine Days around the state. The dates and locations are March 29, Mt. Vernon High School; March 30, Carlinville High School? April 3, Scripps Park in Rushville; April 4, Knoxville High School? and April 5, Amboy 4-H Cen- ter.
Dean Wolf, however, will not appear at the Area Swine Days.
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Broiled Haylage Beefsteak
Samples For Festival Visitors
URBANA — High-quality alfalfa forage tastes delicious — if it's packaged as haylage beefsteak.
Along with information for producing top-quality alfalfa, U. of I. agronomists are offering Farm and Home Festival visitors sample cubes of beefsteak from steers fed a ration of mostly haylage (high- moisture hay) .
Sample cubes of the charcoal broiled haylage beefsteak will be served from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. each day of the festival and from 6:30 to 8:30 on Thursday evening at the exhibit in the Canvas Arena. The beef is provided by the Certified Alfalfa Seed Council.
The exhibit, Five Steps to Five Tons, outlines five steps for producing five or more tons of high-quality alfalfa forage per acre.
Here are the five steps recommended:
1' Meet Soil Requirements. Alfalfa does best on deep, well drained, slightly acid to neutral soil that is well supplied with plant nutrients. Limestone, phosphorus and potassium should be applied according to what the soil tests show.
At the exhibit, folks can get a free acidity test on a soil sample from their lawn or field.
2- Plant Certified Seed of Recommended Varieties. Agronomists suggest planting varieties that are winter-hardy. Free copies of
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Certified Alfalfa — the Profit Factor in Livestock Farming" will be available to help farmers select the best variety for their farms.
3. Get the Proper Start. Alfalfa seed planted more than 1/2 inch deep may not come up. When seeding in the spring, use oats as a companion or nurse crop.
4. Manage Established Stands Carefully. For top yields, agronomists suggest three cuttings a year in Illinois.
5. Harvest and Store Properly. To get top-quality forage, farmers must harvest and store it carefully. Haylage, silage, wafers, pellets and compact bales will be on display in this section of the exhibit.
Crop and soil scientists will be on hand to answer visitors' questions.
College-bound young people should visit the "Opportunities in J^gronomy" exhibit, also in the Canvas Arena. Agronomy students and faculty members will be there to discuss futures in crop and soil sciences.
The dates for the 1961 University of Illinois Farm and Home
Festival are April 6, 7 and 8. Last year more than 15,000 attended the
annual event at Urbana.
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Apple Growers Aren't Getting As Rich As Consumers May Think
URBANA — The next time you buy a bag of apples for 20 cents a pound, you may think the apple growers are getting rich. But they're
not.
In fact, many apple growers are being squeezed out of busi- ness. Why? Increasing production costs are forcing them to either increase their volume or lower their costs. "If they can't, they must sell out." says Frank W. Owen, University of Illinois fruit crops spe- cialist.
Costs of producing a bushel of apples have steadily climbed.
Now it costs the average grower $2.60 for each bushel of No. 1 apples that he grows and packs. This does not include family wages or return on investment. Neither does it include storage costs of 35 to 50 cents a bushel if the apples are stored, or brokerage fees of 15 cents a bushel if they are sold through a broker.
This can add up to a total production cost of $3.25 a bushel, or eight cents a pound.
Prices that growers receive for apples have also climbed, but
not in proportion to production costs. For example, Michigan apples
were recently bringing growers anywhere from $3.45 to $4.50 a bushel
for the very best. Most prices, however, ranged, between $3.45 and
$3.65.
In four-pound bags, prices averaged between 8 and 10 cents a
pound. (Michigan prices are similar to other midwestern prices.)
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The past 10 years have seen many changes occur in fruit orchards as growers fight to keep on top of the cost-price squeeze battle. New machinery and equipment and a vast new array of chemicals are some of the big changes.
High labor costs and, in some cases, a shortage of trained labor have brought about the need for new machinery and equipment. Too, disease and insect control have been increasingly complex, bringing a flood of new and usually expensive chemicals.
These changes in themselves have intensified the cost-price squeeze by increasing the capital investment and yearly operating costs of growers.
"Consumer buying habits are partly to blame for the growers' dilemma," says Owen. Consumers demand apples that are clean, either washed or brushed, graded and sized. They also prefer them packaged in plastic bags or in cellophane-covered trays. Each step requires extra labor or equipment and consequently more money. Growers pay these costs.
The commission men and jobbers who act as middlemen have also seen their costs rise. They are shelling out more money for operating costs all along the line.
Retailers, of course, are also faced with rising costs, such as for labor, handling smaller packages and offering consumers a variety of products in an attractive and convenient store.
This information might give you some idea why you, as a con- sumer, are asked to pay from 14 to 29 cents a pound for apples.
But Owen still wonders whether the costs from grower to retail outlet have increased enough to justify the tremendous difference in price paid to growers, around eight cents a pound, and price received from consumers, 14 to 29 cents a pound.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Festival Offers Chance To Examine Veterinary Career Opportunities
URBANA — If you're a high school student who can't decide what to do after graduation, you may find the answer at a veterinary medical display at the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival April 6-8.
Part of the display consists of slides showing students pre- paring for their roles in veterinary medicine. After getting a sound background from books, lectures and classroom discussions, these stu- dents get experience in the University's large and small animal clinics.
After graduation, some of these veterinarians will serve farmers, pet owners or zoos. Others will do research or work in public health and other fields.
The challenge of research appeals to many veterinarians. Vast numbers of vaccines, drugs and methods of controlling disease have yet to be discovered. Also, little is known about the zoonoses, diseases passed back and forth between animals and man. But these diseases, which number more than 100 and include tuberculosis and rabies, are so important that the University is building a zoonoses center.
Veterinarians play an important role in protecting man through public health programs. They inspect meat and milk and help to estab- lish and enforce pure food laws.
Other areas in veterinary medicine include teaching, writing
and producing films, tape recordings and TV programs.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
(Editor's Note: The following questions and answers present the general provisions of the Feed Grain Program. More information that will help guide farmers in making their decisions and further details of the pro- gram will be sent as soon as they are worked out.
Extension Editors.)
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE 1961 FEED GRAIN PROGRAM
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE NEW FEED GRAIN PROGRAM?
Congress had these objectives in mind when it passed the new Feed Grain Laws (1) stop build-up in stocks, (2) provide modest increase in farm income, (3) reduce government costs, (4) stabilize feed costs, and (5) alleviate tight storage. MUST EVERY FARMER PARTICIPATE?
No, the program is voluntary. Each farmer decides whether or not he wants to participate. HOW LONG DOES THE PROGRAM LAST, AND WHAT CROPS ARE INVOLVED?
The law passed by Congress and signed by the President is for 1961 only and applies only to corn and grain sorghums. It makes no dif- ference whether these crops are used for grain, fodder or silage. HCW DOES A FARMER PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?
A farmer must cut his acreage of corn and grain sorghums at least 20 percent from his average acreage planted in 1959 and 1960. He will put this "diverted acreage" into soil-conserving uses. WHAT BENEFITS DOES A FARMER GET FOR COOPERATING WITH THE PROGRAM?
He is eligible to receive the support price on his normal production of corn and grain sorghums and to receive a payment on each acre taken out of corn or sorghum. The national average support price
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for corn will be $1.20 a bushel and for grain sorghums $1.93 per hundredweight. A support rate will be established for each county. Normal production on a farm is the base yield established by the county committee times the reduced acreage planted in 1961. He will also be eligible for supports on other feed grains as follows: oats, 62 cents a bushel; barley, 93 cents a bushel? and rye, $1.02 a bushel. HCW MUCH PAYMENT WILL A FARMER GET FOR TAKING LAND OUT OF CORN OR SORGHUMS?
Payments will be figured for each farm based on county aver- age yields, the county support rate, the productivity index on each farm and the number of acres diverted on that farm. Suppose, for example, that the average yield in an Illinois county was 60 bushels an acre. The average support rate was $1.20. The average payment for each di- verted acre in that county would be 50 percent of the average yield times the support rate, in this case 30 bushels times $1.20, which would be $36 an acre. If the county committee has put a productivity rating of 100 percent on the farm, then the rate for the farm would be $36 an acre. If this farm had a base of 100 acres and 20 diverted acres, the total payment would be $720.
CAN A FARMER CUT HIS CORN ACREAGE MORE THAN 20 PERCENT AND RECEIVE PAY- MENT FOR IT?
Yes, he can. If his base corn and grain sorghum acreage is 20
acres or less, he can take out anywhere from 20 to 100 percent of it.
If he has a base of 20 to 100 acres, he can take out 20 acres plus an
additional 20 percent of the base. For example, if his corn acreage
base was 60 acres, he could take out 20 acres plus 20 percent of 60, or
12 more acres, to make a maximum of 32 acres. For farmers who have a
base of more than 100 acres, the maximum that they can divert is 40 per- cent.
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HOW MUCH PAYMENT WILL HE GET IF HE TAKES OUT MORE THAN 20 PERCENT?
The payment per acre will be higher on those acres diverted above the first 20 percent. The payment will be calculated on the basis of 60 percent of the county yield instead of 50 percent as mentioned above .
Where the acreage base is below 100 acres, the payment rates are figured as follows:
First 20 percent of base acreage diverted — 50 percent of county yield times diverted acreage times farm productivity index
Second 20 percent diverted — 60 percent of county yield times diverted acreage times farm productivity index
Remaining acreage diverted — 50 percent of county yield times diverted acreage times farm productivity index HOW WILL PAYMENTS BE MADE?
County ASC offices will issue negotiable certificates to participating farmers. These can be exchanged for CCC grain or for cash. When a farmer exchanges his certificates for cash, he authorizes the Commodity Credit Corporation to act as his marketing agent to sell a specified amount of grain on the open market. If he decides to take grain instead of cash, the amount he receives will be figured on the basis of local market price.
Advance Payments. If a farmer desires, he can receive up to 50 percent of his expected total payment in advance. These advance payments can be made as soon as a farmer agrees to cooperate in the program and can be used to meet current production expenses.
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-4- WHAT MUST A FARMER DO WITH THE ACREAGE THAT HE DIVERTS OUT OF CORN OR GRAIN SORGHUMS?
This land must be handled in one of these waysr (1) perma- nent type, or rotation cover of grasses or legumes; (2) temporary cover of grasses, legumes or small grains; (3) ponds or other water storage; (4) wildlife food or habitat plantings; (5) trees or shrubs; or (6) crop- land may be left to take "volunteer natural cover or summer fallow" if the county committee determines that it is not practical to establish a cover. Weeds, insects and rodents must also be controlled as determined by the county committee.
A farmer must certify that the diverted acreage put in con- serving uses is in addition to his acreage of cropland devoted to con- servation uses in 1959-60.
In establishing a seeding, it is permissible to use a nurse crop, such as oats, and clip it. or it can just be left to fall over without clipping. The diverted land can be seeded to wheat in the fall, but it must not be pastured at any time in 1961. Whether the land can be fall-plowed will depend on the decision of the county committee. WILL THE FARMER WHO CHOOSES TO STAY OUT OF THE PROGRAM BE ELIGIBLE FOR PRICE SUPPORTS?
The farmer who does not sign up with the feed grain program will not be eligible for support prices on any feed grain crop. But he will still be eligible to get the $2.30 support price for soybeans. CAN DIVERTED ACREAGE BE PASTURED OR CUT FOR HAY?
No, the land that is designated on each farm as diverted acreage can not be pastured after April 15, nor can any hay crop be cut from it. The Secretary of Agriculture can, however, in case of drouth
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or other emergency make exceptions to this rule. Of course other land on the farm in cover crops, and not designated as diverted acreage, can be pastured or cut for hay. IS GOVERNMENT AID AVAILABLE TO HELP ESTABLISH COVER CROPS?
The farmer who signs up with the program may apply for help under the Agricultural Conservation Program, but payments are not as- sured at this time. HOW WILL THE PROGRAM BE FINANCED?
Direct financing of payments and administrative expense will be handled through the Commodity Credit Corporation, with the $14.5 bil- lion borrowing authority appropriated by Congress.
MIGHT A FARMER BUILD A LARGER ACREAGE BASE BY STAYING OUT OF THE 1961 PROGRAM?
Farmers who do not join the program in 1961 should not ex- pect to build up their acreage bases for future programs. The Depart- ment will recommend to Congress that any future legislation involving base acreages give no advantage to producers who do not cooper- ate in the 1961 program.
IF A FARMER HAS AN INTEREST IN MORE THAN ONE FARM, CAN HE SIGN UP WITH THE PROGRAM ON ONE FARM AND NOT ON THE OTHER?
Yes, a farmer can participate in the program on one farm and leave the other one out. But on the farm (or farms) not in the program, the corn and grain sorghum acreage must not be above the 1959-60 base acreage. Also, he will not be able to get price support on the feed grains produced on any farm not in the program.
HOW WILL PAYMENTS BE DIVIDED BETWEEN LANDLORD AND TENANT?
The law provides that payments be divided on a "fair and equitable basis" in line with existing contracts. Further details on this question are expected later.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Bankers Schedule Agricultural Conference, April 12-13
URBANA — Illinois bankers interested in farming will hold their annual agricultural conference at the University of Illinois at Urbana April 12 and 13.
Harold G. Halcrow, head of the U. of I. department of agricul- tural economics, will speak on "Economics of the Farm Problem" during the opening session Wednesday morning.
The next session will feature a panel of agricultural engi- neers, a banker and a farm management specialist discussing, "Farm Equipment Investments to Increase Net Profits."
Karl E. Gardner, associate dean of the College of Agriculture, will address the Wednesday noon luncheon session on "Opportunities unlimited in Agriculture."
J. B. Claar, associate director of the Illinois Agricul- tural Extension Service, will speak during the Wednesday afternoon ses- sion. Other topics to be discussed are income distribution by size of
farm, 1961 agricultural outlook, and principles affecting farming efficiency and profits.
At the Wednesday evening banquet, conference visitors R. P. Heringer, Heringer Holly Ranch, Clarksburg, California, will talk about "A Bag of Groceries." The University of Illinois Women's Glee Club will provide the music.
The conference is sponsored by the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, the Division of University Extension and. the Illinois Bankers Association.
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Press Conference For Secretary Freeman
Note to Editors; Secretary of Agriculture Orville Freeman has agreed to hold a press conference immediately preceding his address at the first general session of the 1961 Farm and Home Festival. This con- ference is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. in Room 422 Mumford Hall on the cam- pus. We would be happy to have you attend and participate with Secretary Freeman in a discussion of current farm problems and programs.
Hadley Read Extension Editor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (This story was released Thursday to press associations.)
Secretary Of Agriculture Freeman To Speak At Illinois Farm And Home Festival
URBANA — Secretary of Agriculture Orville L. Freeman will speak at the University of Illinois next Thursday, April 6, at 3 p.m. in the University auditorium.
Freeman's appearance will highlight the first day of the annual Farm and Home Festival Thursday, Friday and Saturday on the Col- lege of Agriculture campus.
At 42, Freeman is the youngest man ever to serve as Secretary of Agriculture, and the first from Minnesota. A lawyer by profession, he has served three terms as governor of Minnesota and has had wide experience in working with legislative bodies and administering a state government.
He served in the U. S. Marines from 1941 to 1945, advancing from the rank of second lieutenant to major. A Japanese sniper bullet shattered his jaw and severely injured him. Although his speech was impaired, he underwent special therapy and is now nationally recognized as an outstandingly fluent and forceful speaker.
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Besides his political and governmental activities, he has been active in many civic, professional and church activities.
With the passage of the Feed Grain Law, Secretary Freeman's address is expected to attract wide interest among farmers and all others interested in agriculture.
The Secretary's address will be broadcast over University of Illinois radio station WILL, 580 kilocycles, at 3 p.m. Thursday.
The 1961 Farm and Home Festival features the theme, "Founda- tions for the Future, " and includes exhibits, displays, special exhibit presentations and a speaking program featuring many University staff members on timely topics.
Governor Otto Kerner will speak on Friday, April 7, at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 8, is Student Guest and Hospitality Day. High school students are invited for special programs to learn about college and career opportunities. More details of the program are available from farm and home advisers, high school principals and agriculture and home economics teachers.
Festival exhibits are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m and 6:30 to
9 p.m. on Thursday; and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Carefree Fido Needs Master's Guidance
URBANA — Fido's free J He bounds down the stairs, through the gate and across the street. Barking excitedly, he runs to and fro, jumping. .. twisting. .. irresistibly attacking sticks and stones.
A giant-sized steak bone couldn't make Fido happier, for spring is here and his master lets him romp outside more often. But because half the fun is chasing cars or passersby and tracking over neighbors' lawns, Fido's master must be extracautious.
"More small animals are involved in accidents during spring than at any other time," Dr. A. G. Schiller, University of Illinois veterinarian said. "After being cooped up all winter, they just can't handle their new freedom. "
Dr. Schiller suggested several precautions that dog owners should take:
1. Keep an eye on your dog. Unless he is trained to heel,
keep him on a leash when walking him in congested areas. The leash
prevents him from darting into traffic, where he may cause an accident or get killed. It also prevents him from upsetting neighbors by run- ning over their lawns. Let him romp in less congested areas.
2. Have a veterinarian vaccinate the dog for rabies. Most dog bites occur in spring and summer, when children and dogs spend more time outdoors. State law requires owners to have their dogs vaccinated once a year. By doing this now, you can avoid the rush in May.
It's also a good idea to have your dog vaccinated for dis- temper. Because he is outdoors more, he has a greater chance of coming into contact with dogs carrying this disease.
3. Rid your dog of fleas and ticks. Spray or dust him, and then bathe him with a mild soap. Wash or burn his bedding. This action combined with frequent dustings will keep him healthier and more comfortable.
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Freeman and Kerner Talks To Be Broadcast
URBANA--Talks by Secretary of Agriculture Orville Freeman and Governor Otto Kerner before the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival will be broadcast over the University radio Station WILL, 580 kilocycles.
The Secretary will speak at 3 p.m. Thursday, April 6. He has chosen as his subject, "A New Look in Agriculture."
If weather conditions are favorable, Freeman will speak from the north steps of the Stock Pavilion. The quadrangle area in front of the pavilion will accommodate the many thousands expected for his address. In case of rain, he will speak in the University auditorium.
Freeman's appearance will highlight the first day of the University's annual Farm and Home Festival, Thursday, Friday and Satur- day. Exhibits, displays, exhibit presentations, a Town and Country Art Show and a speaking program of University staff members and outstanding public officials are featured, in this year's exposition.
Governor Kerner will speak in the University auditorium at
3 p.m. Friday, April 7. His address will mark his first appearance at
an agricultural event since his election. University President David
Dodds Henry will introduce Kerner.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Develop Guides For Making 1961 Crop Decisions
URBANA — Two University of Illinois farm management specialists this week estimated a "break-even" corn price needed by farmers con- sidering the 1961 feed grain program.
In making these estimates, Royce A. Hinton and George B. Whitman have set up several situations that are typical of farms in different parts of the state.
One example covers a grain farm with state average yields of around 70 bushels an acre and a 100-acre corn base. To participate in the program, a farmer would plant at least 20 fewer acres of corn. He would receive payment based on half his normal yield, the county sup- port rate and the number of acres taken out of corn. The figures assume that the farmer would make a net saving of about $15 an acre on land taken out of corn and put into conservation use.
The farm management specialists figured that a farmer with average yields who did not participate in the program would have to get at least $1.12 a bushel for all the corn he sold on the open market to obtain the same return as a farmer taking part in the program and get- ting the $1.20 support rate on a. reduced corn acreage along with his special payment.
Should 1961 corn yields per acre fall below the normal pro- duction for 1959-60, the break-even price for non-cooperators would be higher. For example, if yields dropped to 60 bushels, the break-even price would be $1.15 instead of $1.12. If yields averaged 10 bushels above normal, the break-even price would drop to $1.09 a bushel.
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Some additional advantage for taking part in the program shows up when a farmer can reduce both his corn and oat acreage and raise more soybeans.
Hinton and Whitman cite as an example a farmer who averaged 100 acres of corn, 20 acres of oats, 30 acres of hay and pasture and 50 acres of soybeans during the past two years. He could cooperate with the program by cutting his corn to 80 acres. He would seed 20 of the acres that would normally go to oats to a. cover crop, and that would be his diverted acres. He would harvest no crop from this land in 1961. He would keep 30 acres in hay and pasture as he had for the past two years. He would plant 70 acres of soybeans instead of the 50 that he had averaged for 1959-60.
Let's figure that this farmer gets the national average sup- port rates of $1.20 for corn and $2.30 for soybeans and has a normal yield of 70 bushels of corn an acre and 28 bushels of soybeans. He would of course reduce his income and save some cash costs by not har- vesting oats. In this situation, Hinton and Whitman figure that a non- participating farmer would have to average $1.22 a bushel for corn on the open market to equal his expected returns from cooperating in the program.
A budget form that will help farmers figure their cropping
plans and expected returns both in and outside the program has been
developed by U. of I. farm management specialists. Copies should be
available from each county farm adviser by late this week.
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FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Market Key To Size Of Farm Production Plant
URBANA — The amount of land, capital and manpower employed on American farms will finally depend upon the market for the products produced, a University of Illinois agricultural economist pointed out today.
Speaking before the opening session of the Farm and Home Fes- tival, T. A. Hieronymus stated that American farmers do have a rapidly expanding market for food products. Demand for food rose about 3 per- cent a year during the 1950' s.
To maintain an expanding market, producers must supply the
desired products, provide proper quality, merchandise them in a form in
which consumers want them, and price them attractively, Hieronymus
stated.
This requires a flexible and changing marketing system, he
emphasized. He cited the experiences of broiler, soybean and beef
producers who have expanded their markets in recent years. These are
examples of products produced to fill an expanding need made available
in the form in which people wanted them, and priced so that consumers
are willing to spend their money for them, he concluded.
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FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Dr. Brandly Describes Fight Against Zoonoses
URBANA — The dreaded Asian flu epidemic that hit man, swine, horses and other animals several years ago was a grave example of the zoonoses problem, Dr. C. A. Brandly told a Farm and Home Festival audi- ence today. Dr. Brandly, dean of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, defined zoonoses as diseases transmitted from animal to man or man to animal.
Dr. Brandly explained that the virus causing Asian flu first attacked in 1889 and then possibly retreated, to wild animals on the mainland of China. "The virus apparently slumbered for almost 70 years before causing the 1956 outbreak, " Dr. Brandly said. "This epidemic showed us that nature helps infectious agents survive and perpetuate themselves just as it helps us."
Man is advancing in his fight against the more than 100 zoonoses, according to Dr. Brandly. Thirty years ago bovine tubercu- losis, transmitted from cow to man through milk, caused many cases of tuberculosis, especially in children. The threat of bovine tuberculosis no longer exists, not because of pasteurization of milk but because of the organized work of veterinarians to virtually wipe out the disease.
The problem is now reversed, according to Dr. Brandly, and the cow is no longer safe around humans. "If a herd of cattle that was free of tuberculosis now reacts to the tuberculin test, suspicion turns to man as the possible culprit."
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Although man is superior intellectually, ethically and morally to other mammals, he has no special immunity against infection from pets and other animals. Hence, we must seek ways to eliminate disease.
"Miracle" drugs are not the answer, for their effects are limited, Dr. Brandly said. "Nature protects all forms of life. Flies and insects become immune to insecticides. And if bacteria are in continuous contact, they not only disregard drugs and antibiotics, but eventually require them in order to survive."
Dr. Brandly said that drugs are successful for a. time and to a degree. Tsetse flies, carriers of sleeping sickness, were eliminated from large areas in Africa by dusting and spraying breeding areas from
airplanes.
One of veterinary medicine's greatest concerns about pesti- cides is that they cannot determine eventual effects on man and animals.
Another concern is that diseases limited to one species may affect others, including man. Also, some diseases that scientists thought were under control have made new advances.
"Living with and using animals for our benefit is a luxury we do not want to do without," Dr. Brandly said. "Without dogs and other experimental animals, there would be no success with the 'blue baby' operation, nor would we have the Stader splint, the Gorman arti- ficial hip joint or other remarkable discoveries. There are benefits in the other direction, too. Through collaboration of the dentist and veterinarian, crowns are being put on cows* teeth that often double the reproductive life of the cow on coarse range pastures."
These facts indicate the urgency for collaboration in our fight against diseases common to man and others in the animal kingdom, according to Dr. Brandly. The Illinois Zoonoses Research Center, established last year, will provide this collaboration by permitting veterinarians, physicians, sanitary engineers, soil scientists, meteor- ologists and others to work together.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Face Flies Expected To Be Serious Again This Summer
URBANA — Face flies, the newest insect pest to plague Illinois livestock, are expected to be serious again this year, warns Steve Moore .
Moore, an entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey, spoke today before a Farm and Home Festival audience. He said that parasites and diseases of the face fly, as well as weather conditions, would determine how serious this fly actually becomes.
Warm weather favors the fly's "population explosion."
If the face fly follows the pattern of the past two summers, farmers will first notice him in May or June. But he will probably not become a serious pest until July. By "serious" Moore means more than 15 or 20 flies per head.
Last year some herds of cattle averaged. 150 flies per head,
and some individual animals had over 300 flies. This fly also hovers
around the faces of sheep and horses. It feeds on secretions around the eyes and muzzles.
The flies also gather on the withers, neck, brisket, legs and sides of the animal, feeding on saliva deposits or on blood from other wounds or insect bites.
Last year face fly baits becajne available to farmers for the first time. Consisting mostly of corn sirup and two-tenths percent DDVP, the baits are painted on the foreheads of animals. They can reduce fly populations up to 75 percent.
Moore expects that these baits, as well as repellents, will be improved upon this year.
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FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Fight Insects Through Biological Control
URBANA — Preventing insects from completing their life cycle through biological control is often the best way to rid communities of insect pests, Dr. D. H. Ferris, University of Illinois pathologist, told a Farm and Home Festival audience today.
Estimates of insect species range from 640,000 to 900,000, making insects man's chief competitor for control of the earth. Dr. Ferris stressed the need for control by pointing out that tests indicated that one acre of Pennsylvania rural land contained approxi- mately 425 million insects.
Biological control, Dr. Ferris said, consists of knowing the insect's life cycle and habits and then preventing the completion of that cycle. Using this type of control, people can eliminate flies and mosquitoes by removing manure and straw or draining a. swamp and thus destroying their breeding places.
"Without adequate biological control," Dr. Ferris said, "the use of chemicals will be ineffective. For example, flies will outbreed all the DDT that can be sprayed over a filthy barn floor or lot."
Chemical control is never fully effective, according to
Dr. Ferris. Insecticides seldom succeed in wiping out insects com- pletely, but sometimes succeed in poisoning wildlife, livestock and man himself if used improperly. "Some insects survive our most devastating poisons and come back to plague us in numbers larger than ever, " Dr. Ferris pointed out. "And this time they're resistant to the in- secticide. "
Farms and communities can reduce or eliminate many insect pests by planning a cooperative program with their conservation depart- ment, natural history survey, public health service or universities.
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY P.M., APRIL 7, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Changes In Illinois Soil Testing Announced
URBANA — Instruments are taking over the job of testing Illi- nois soils for acidity and phosphorus, reports James C. Laverty, Uni- versity soil chemist.
Laverty discussed recent changes in Illinois soil testing with visitors attending the second day of the 1961 Farm and Home Festival held on the U. of I. campus.
Here are the changes made in Illinois soil testing r
1. A pH meter instead of a. visual color test will measure the degree of acidity.
2. A photelometer replaces the visual method of determining phosphorus requirements. Also, a second test for phosphorus is now possible.
The old test, P2# continues as a guide for applying rock phosphate on acid soils, Laverty said. In addition, a second test, P^, will be the guide for applying soluble phosphates on all Illinois soils.
About 100 of the 125 Class A laboratories in Illinois are equipped to use the new methods, according to Laverty. The new methods will reduce errors inherent in the old. visual tests.
Laverty says that no change has been made in the potassium test.
The first extension soil testing laboratory was started in 1944 in Whiteside county. Illinois now has 80 extension and 45 commer- cial soil testing laboratories.
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY A.M., APRIL 7, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
plant Diseases Are Big Eaters
URBANA — Each year plant diseases in the United States destroy enough crops to equal all the crops produced annually in Ohio and Indiana. This amounts to $75 for each family, according to A. L. Hooker, University of Illinois plant pathologist.
At the Friday morning session of the University's 1961 Farm and Home Festival, Hooker introduced a. movie that told the story of plant diseases and the research men who study them.
Hooker also pointed out at the session on "Potatoes, Plant Diseases and Presidents" that plant diseases have played an impor- tant role in history. For example, President John Kennedy's great- grandfather, Patrick J. Kennedy, came to the United States during Ire- land's great potato famine of 1848.
Potato late blight caused the famine.
Today we are able to control the fungus causing the disease,
Phytophthora infestans, with fungicides and resistant varieties,
Hooker said. However, in the 1840 ' s men did not understand diseases or
how to cope with them.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Pork Production Efficiency Depends on Ration
URBANA — The head of the University of Illinois swine division, D. E. Becker, said today that raising hogs as cheaply as possible depends mainly on whether the farmer feeds a. balanced ration.
A balanced ration should contain the correct combination of nutrients to satisfy all of the pig's nutrient requirements, Becker told a Farm and Home Festival audience.
During growth, for example, the pig needs the proper combina- tion of amino acids to make maximum use of protein. Amino acids are the "building blocks" of protein. Likewise, the proper level of energy must accompany the protein or amino acids. This is sometimes referred to as the protein-energy balance.
Energy comes from carbohydrates and in most rations corn sup- plies most of the carbohydrates.
Once a ration is balanced correctly, controlling how much energy a pig consumes is the next most practical method for improving feed efficiency. For example, limiting the energy intake of finishing hogs usually improves feed utilization and produces superior carcass characteristics, such as less fat and more lean.
Other factors also affect feed efficiency, said Becker. A few
of them are the form of the diet, such as pellets or meal, timing in
supplying nutrients and the ration's vitamin and mineral content.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
jNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
Note: This packet contains four stories reporting talks to be pre- sented at Farm and Home Festival, April 6-8.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Government Feed Grain Handling Policy Reversed
URBANA — The 1961 Feed Grain Program marks a reversal of gov- ernment grain pricing and management policies, a University of Illinois agricultural economist reports.
L. F. Stice points out that the Secretary of Agriculture can use government stocks in three ways to influence corn prices: (1) he can sell the amount of feed grains equal to the value of diversion pay- ments; (2) he can change the policy of CCC grain sales for export and (3) he can sell off-quality grain in the domestic market.
For example, if corn producers cut production by 600 million bushels and the USDA issues $360 million in certificates, the Secretary can sell $360 million worth of government corn valued at the market price, assuming that all certificates are turned in by producers and exchanged for cash.
Stice points out that past regulations have prohibited the USDA from selling its stored grain in our domestic market at less than 105 percent of the loan rate plus carrying charges, unless the grain was for disaster relief. Grains in danger of going out of condition, or already out of condition, and export grains were sold at market prices. The 1961 feed grain program does not change these regulations
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except for the amount of grain that USDA can release through the acre- age diversion program.
The aims of the USDA to use government stocks to depress mar- ket prices and encourage participation in the new program are even more important than changes in the law itself, Stice points out.
In the past the USDA has managed and disposed of grain stocks to minimize the influence on market prices.
For example, since 1957 the Commodity Credit Corporation has sold little of its corn for dollars in the export market. As a result, government corn sales for export dropped from 140 million bushels in 1957-58 to 35 million bushels in 1959-60. Government corn exports have been largely for relief, foreign currencies or barter materials, or to pay export subsidies in feed grains. But since this has been an admin- istrative policy, it can be changed.
Another area where judgment can influence the amount of CCC corn sales is determining what corn is storable and what is not. By October 1961 the CCC will own almost two billion bushels of corn, some of which has been stored for several years.
Stice believes that, unless corn yields are very low, the USDA will be able to prevent the market corn price from rising to sup- port levels during 1961. Prices in the spring and summer of 1962 are more uncertain. But government stocks will be large enough to supply the market needs if the USDA sells them, he concludes.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961
Management Key To Successful SPF Hog Production
URBANA — A. H. Jensen, a University of Illinois swine re- searcher, emphasized today that management is the key to successful production of SPF hogs, formerly called "disease-free" hogs.
Speaking before a Farm and Home Festival audience, Jensen dis- cussed whether specific pathogen-free hogs are practical for Illinois farms. He believes they are, IF farmers practice these management
methods:
1. Limit foot and vehicle traffic between swine herds.
2. Keep vehicles of all kinds out of pig pens and lots.
3. Keep SPF hogs away from non-SPF hogs.
4. Keep visitors away from the herd, or provide them with clean boots and outer clothing.
In other words, isolation is the best policy.
Although good feeding is also important, feeding alone will not guarantee success. The specific nutritional needs of SPF hogs have not been determined. But a feeding program that works well for regular swine herds should work well for SPF hogs.
Any hog producer whose pigs are continually troubled by virus
pig pneumonia, atrophic rhinitis and other diseases should consider an
SPF pig program. In many swine herds this program, when coupled with
good management, has reduced these disease problems.
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FOR P.M. RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 6, 1961 Farm and Home Festival Coverage
Child-Rearing Attitudes Reflect Cultural Differences
URBANA — German mothers appear to have more strict and con- trolling child-rearing attitudes than American mothers. This difference reflects cultural differences.
So said Do W. Rapp, University of Illinois child development and family relations specialist, at the Farm and Home Festival today (April 6) .
Reporting on a recent research study, Rapp also said he found German child-rearing attitudes much more authoritarian than American attitudes. The German mothers agreed to a much greater extent than American mothers on such points as: (1) "Severe discipline is essential in the training of children? (2) children need some of the natural mean- ness taken out of them; (3) children should do nothing without the con- sent of their parents and (4) parents are entitled to the love of their children even though they don't earn it."
For his study, Rspp surveyed 124 mothers in Germany and an equal number in Florida. The mothers in the study were matched in social level, age and number of children. Thus the only big difference in the two groups was their culture.
German mothers also generally said, "Yes" about these atti- tudes: "A child should feel a deep sense of obligation always to act in accord with the wishes of his parents." And parents should always have complete control over the actions of their children." However, in
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general, American mothers had widely divided opinions about these statements.
In spite of the many differences, the mothers in both coun- tries did agree on several points. One outstanding common attitude was: "It is important for children to have some kind of religious up- bringing." Also they agreed that "The most important consideration in planning the activities of the home should be the needs and interests of the children; children should not interrupt adult conversation; children should be punished for disobedience? and most children should have more discipline than they get."
Rapp said that cross-national research provides an important basis for understanding people in other countries. As distances be- tween countries shrink, such understanding becomes even more essential.
Rapp also reminded the audience that the results of his study should not serve as the only basis for judging the value of these atti- tudes. The fact that German mothers tend to have more dominant and controlling attitudes is no reason to say that their children are being brought up in a bad atmosphere. "The goodness or badness of German or American child-rearing attitudes should always be considered in relation to the uniqueness of their cultures."
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FOR P.M. RELEASE FRIDAY, APRIL 7, 1961
Link Discusses Problems With Insecticides
URBANA — Insecticide sprays that are toxic at one-tenth per- cent may be more dangerous than sprays that are toxic at one percent, Dr. R. P. Link told a Farm and Home Festival audience today.
He is a physiologist at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.
"The more toxic spray may be used in such low concentration that it actually presents less danger, " Dr. Link explained. "The less toxic compound may be more dangerous because it often has to be used in much higher concentration before it's effective."
The type of formulation that is used is not the only important consideration. How livestock come into contact with insecticides is also important.
Fortunately, feed that has been contaminated by insecticides and then is eaten by farm animals is seldom harmful. The quantity of insecticides per unit of feed is usually so small that animals can tolerate it.
In one experiment with cattle, hogs and chickens, the animals and birds were given rations containing different insecticides for 16 weeks. The quantity of insecticides mixed in the feed was much greater than would occur under any possible practical use.
"Neither the animals nor the birds suffered any ill effects, " Dr. Link reported. "And the insecticides did not impair production or weight gains or cause changes in various vital organs."
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Insecticides must be effective and reasonably safe when used according to recommendations before the U. S. Department of Agriculture will approve them.
"Some misuse is generally anticipated and considered in both
the recommended use and registration, " Dr. Link said. "But it simply
is not possible to anticipate all extremes of misuse. For this reason
farmers must be extremely cautious in using insecticides."
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FOR P.M. RELEASE SATURDAY, APRIL 8, 1961
Extension Work In Illinois Works The Same In India
URBANA — Frank H. Shuman stressed today that successful demon- strations are the key to successful extension work in India just the same as they are in Illinois.
Shuman, a long-time University of Illinois farm adviser in Whiteside county, recently returned from India, where he served as a foreign consultant on extension service methods. He spoke today before a Farm and Home Festival audience on the University campus.
He told the audience that American agricultural representa- tives in India will never have much influence with the Indian people unless they gain their respect. And they will never gain their respect unless their agricultural demonstrations are successful.
Shuman explained that many Indian soils have been farmed for 3,000 years with no organic matter or fertilizer returned to the soil, a fact that Illinois farmers probably can't even begin to comprehend. Soil poverty is causing many of India's millions to starve, Shuman pointed out.
Each morning in India there are 12,000 more mouths to feed. A soil fertility buildup program is therefore essential if India is to feed her present and future generations. Shuman showed color slides depicting phenomenal responses of India's hungry crops to soil treat- ments.
Shuman believes that with proper motivation and demonstration there IS hope for India. He said that in both the United States and
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India people repeatedly asked him, "Why disturb India? If you educate people you simply make more problems. India's problems are so great that they can never be solved. And saving lives only makes more people to feed."
Shuman declared that he could never agree with this concept. If the masses are educated and motivated to do something about their problems, more people will be working to solve India's problem.
The former farm adviser also emphasized the importance of sending U. S. representatives overseas who firmly believe that "all men are created equal." If an American at home defends white supremacy, he will never help to eliminate the caste system, which is unsurpassed in its power to blight human personality.
"If our foreign aid program is to be successful overseas, we must practice at home what we preach abroad," Shuman said in conclusion.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Develop Budget Form For Deciding On Feed Grain Program
URBANA — University of Illinois farm management specialists have developed a special budget form to help farmers work out their decisions on the 1961 Feed Grain Program.
This form enables farmers to estimate their income if they participate and if they do not participate. It shows estimated ferti- lizer and other crop costs based on detailed research studies conducted by the department of agricultural economics.
When a farmer has worked through the form, he can see the difference between his income from participation and from nonpartici- pation.
These forms along with instructions for working them out are
available in each county farm adviser's office.
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Early-Weaned Lambs Make Satisfactory Gains
URBANA — University of Illinois tests show that early-weaned lambs can make satisfactory gains and have fewer internal parasites with no increase in death losses.
The tests used lambs weaned at six and nine weeks of age. Weaning at such an early age did not increase death losses. In fact, it may have reduced them. Of the 76 lambs used, only two died after weaning.
Before weaning, lambs were creep-fed the same ration they were self- fed after weaning. Fed in meal form, it contained ground shelled corn, high-quality ground mixed hay, soybean meal, vitamins and minerals,
Lambs made satisfactory gains immediately after weaning as well as during the entire study. Gains for all lambs, regardless of age at weaning, averaged almost 1/2 pound, daily per head. Previous tests have shown that lambs have fewer internal parasites when they are not allowed to graze with ewes. This test confirmed the earlier tests.
Early weaning also has other advantages: (1) eliminates the need for high-quality legume-grass pasture, (2) allows maximum gains, (3) results in more uniform lambs, (4) makes lambs easier to handle and (5) lets ewes run on poorer pasture, since they are not milking.
On the other hand, early weaning can also increase labor and equipment costs and out-of-pocket costs for grain and supplements. And ewes can develop udder trouble. In these tests, however, only one ewe out of 250 had such trouble. Workers reduced the ewe rations in quan- tity and quality shortly before and after weaning the lambs.
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Early weaning does not use as much roughage as other systems of ewe and lamb management. This may be either an advantage or a dis- advantage, depending on how much roughage is available.
These tests were conducted at the University's Dixon Springs Experiment Station. The Dixon Springs staff is keenly interested in lamb studies that will help sheepmen market lambs earlier while prices and lamb quality are high. And marketing early avoids problems result- ing from hot weather, insects and declining pasture quality.
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Futures Markets May Be Useful For Advance Sales
URBANA — A University of Illinois agricultural economist this week called farmers' attention to the futures markets as a mean of sell- ing their grain crops ahead of harvest, or even ahead of planting.
T. A. Hieronymus cited the April 6 market quotation in which the effective price for corn delivered at country elevators in mid- February 1962 was $1.11. The price for soybeans delivered next February was $2.33.
These prices may or may not be good sales, Hieronymus points out. Prices could be higher or lower next February. But farmers who are worried about prices a year from now can assure themselves of about $1.10 for corn and $2.30 for soybeans by selling futures.
Here is how the operation works: The recent quotation on March 1962 corn futures was $1.21. At this time of year, cash prices to farmers will be about 10 cents below this figure. So a farmer who wants to sell March futures would net about $1.11 when delivering to his local elevator. If the cash price next winter declined to $1.00, the farmer would sell his corn for this price. Then he would buy back his March futures contract, which would be about $1.10. He would get $1.00 from the cash sale of his corn and make 11 cents a. bushel profit on his futures trade, so his total return would be about $1.11.
If the cash price was $1.20, March futures would be about $1.30. He would have to buy back his futures contract at a loss of
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9 cents a bushel. Subtracting this from the $1.20 cash price he re- ceived, he would net about $1.11.
The recent March soybean futures price was about $2.47. The difference between futures and cash is about 14 cents a bushel. So a farmer could sell March 1962 futures now and be assured of about $2.33 a bushel for the crop he delivers next winter.
Current futures prices reflect the combined, judgment of all
people in the market about what prices of grain will be a. year from now,
Hieronymus points out. That judgment now says that corn will be about
$1.11 and soybeans about $2.30 to $2.35. The market stands ready to
buy at these prices now, he concludes.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cass County 4-H'er Wins X-Tra Yield Corn Contest
URBANA — Jim Deppe, Ashland, Cass county 4-H member, has been named winner of the 1960 4-H X-Tra Yield Corn Contest. His winning yield was 191.04 bushels an acre.
Winners were announced and prizes awarded at the annual 4-H X-Tra Yield Corn Contest banquet during the 1961 University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival in Urban a.
District X-Tra. Yield winners also announced were Howard Temple, Sheridan, 172.53 bushels; Tom Bidner, Mahomet, 175.9 bushels; Kelly Schmitt, Ingraham, 182.15 bushels; and Chuck Varner, Omaha, 166.42 bushels.
The yield contest was judged on the basis of corn grown on a five-acre supervised plot last summer. Each district winner was awarded a wrist watch and ribbon, with a trophy for Deppe.
The X-Tra Yield Contest is sponsored by the University of
Illinois in cooperation with the Illinois Farm Supply Company.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCES
IJrbana, Illinois
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Report Reasons Why Some Farmers Make Financial Progress
URBANA — Important reasons why some tenant farmers made finan- cial progress while some did not were reported, this week by a University of Illinois farm management specialist.
Donald G. Smith drew these conclusions from a study of 30 operators who had made financial progress and 29 who had not during the period from 1955 to 1959.
The operators who made progress increased their farmland, by 25 acres? the others had a reduction of four acres.
Operators showing progress increased their corn and soybeans by 31 acres, while those making no progress increased by only 17 acres. The operators making progress intensified their cropping program, but they had only 68 percent of their farm in these crops.
Those who made progress expanded livestock. The livestock inventory jumped $9,400 compared with only $1,400 on those farms where operators made no progress.
Although operators showing progress had less debt in 1955, each group had $8,800 debt in 1959. So the group showing financial progress actually borrowed $1,800 more than the other group.
The group showing financial progress boosted their net worth by $9,900 during the five-year period. Those showing no progress saw their net worth drop by $1,800.
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Change in assets made the difference. The operators showing progress increased their assets from $21,300 to $35,600. The operators showing no progress raised their assets only $600.
Debts amounted to only 21 percent of assets at the beginning and 25 percent at the end for those who made progress. Those with no progress began with a debt of 34 percent of total assets and increased it to 44 percent.
operators showing progress were more efficient managers than those showing no progress. They produced higher yields per acre and had higher returns for each $100 worth of feed fed to livestock.
By maintaining efficiency, by farming more land more inten- sively and by increasing volume of hogs and beef, the successful group achieved higher net income per hour of labor and also increased their capital assets.
The two groups in this study were about the same age, had families of the same size and the productivity of soil on the farms and years of farm experience were about equal.
Smith made this report before the Illinois Bankers Agricul- tural Conference at Urbana.
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Storage/ Market Price Key In Feed Grain Program Decision
URBANA — Available storage, expected market price and type of farm operation are key factors farmers face in making their decisions about the 1961 feed grain program, a University of Illinois agricultural economist points out.
R. B. Schwart says that a. farmer must have storage available to take advantage of the program.
If a grain farmer has storage and he estimates that the mar- ket corn price will be $1.00 a bushel or less, then there are few situa- tions in which he would not find it advantageous to comply, the econo- mist believes.
The livestock farmer who has farm storage and who plans to participate and seal his corn must estimate the free market corn price needed for feeding plus costs of hauling and handling. In his situa- tion, he may find little advantage in complying.
The farmer who must rent storage may pay as much as 15 cents a bushel for the season. In addition, he may have extra costs for loan fees, personal property taxes and shrink that will reduce the net sup- port price from $1.20 to about $1.00.
Farmers who participate will find it to their advantage to get top yields per acre. The operator whose average yield has been be- low the base yield established by the ASC committee will find it espe- cially advantageous to apply enough fertilizer to insure at least the base yield, the economist believes. Those with yields above average, however, will still be ahead to maintain their present high yield levels.
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HDG : mf b 4/12/61
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IEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University of Illinois Offers New Agricultural Communications Program
URBANA — For the first time this fall, students at the Univer- sity of Illinois will be able to enroll in a new program specifically designed to prepare them for a. wide variety of careers in agricultural writing, broadcasting, advertising and public relations.
The details of the new "major in agricultural communications" were outlined today by Dean Louis B. Howard, of the College of Agricul- ture and Dean Theodore Peterson of the College of Journalism and Com- munications. The program is offered jointly by the two colleges.
Both Deans Howard and Peterson pointed out that the joint program was developed over a period of several years to meet a steadily growing demand from business, industry and educational institutions for college graduates with specialized education in both agriculture and journalism and communications.
"The need is especially great," Dean Howard said, "in the growing and increasingly important and complex fields of agriculture business.
"Firms and industries which produce goods and services for farm families as well as those which buy, process and distribute agri- cultural products have a growing need for young men and women who know agriculture on one hand and who also know how to write effectively, how to prepare and present radio and television programs, and how to design and carry out effective advertising and promotion programs."
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Under the new plan, students will follow a generally pre- scribed sequence of courses in agriculture and may select one of three optional sequences in journalism and communications. The options in- clude news-editorial, advertising and radio-television, and by use of electives, the student may take some courses in all three options. The bachelor of science degree will be offered by the College of Agriculture.
Dean Peterson emphasized, that the program has received en- thusiastic endorsement from business and industry leaders who were asked to review it.
The director of public relations for a large feed manufactur- ing company stated, "There is a distinct need for men with majors in agricultural communications. We need specialists in this field such as this program will provide."
Similar endorsements were received from representatives of farm papers and magazines, advertising agencies, and agricultural co- operatives. One wrote, "I would say that your new program appears to be an excellent academic preparation for what is surely becoming an in- creasingly significant and exciting field."
The Extension Editorial Office of the College of Agriculture has been assigned administrative responsibility for the new major which will be outlined for the first time in the University's 1961-62 Under- graduate Study Bulletin available to students next month.
Hadley Read, head of the Extension Editorial Office, says high school students who would like to receive more information re- garding the new program may write to his office, 330 Mumford Hall, Urban a.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Reports Lamb Death Loss Study
URBANA — Grade lambs suffered fewer death losses than lambs of three pure breeds during a study at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment Station.
Some 22 percent of the grade lambs died compared to 23 per- cent of the Suffolks, 30 percent of the Hampshires, and 32 percent of the Targhees.
Dr. M. E. Mansfield, Station veterinarian, studied lamb death losses during the 1958, '59 and '60 lambing seasons. Records were kept from time of birth until lambs went on spring pasture. The study in- volved 2,864 lambs.
Of this total, 24 percent died from various causes. The greatest number of losses were lambs dead at birth. Other losses re- sulted from (in order of frequency) : (1) weak lambs that died shortly after birth, (2) miscellaneous causes, (3) starvation and overlaying by the ewe, (4) pneumonia, (5) premature lambs, (6) lambs delivered dead, (7) undetermined causes, (8) injuries other than those caused by dam, (9) lambs not claimed by dam, and (10) deformed or abnormal lambs.
The records show that more Hampshire lambs were premature, dead at birth or lived only a short time, than any other lambs. This might have happened because the Hampshire lambs were large in compari- son to the ewe's size.
The large number of losses in all breeds, however, points out the need for more research into the causes behind such losses, says Mansfield.
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A startling number of Targhee lambs, 24 percent, died from starvation. Their dams, however, were two-year-old ewes lambing for the first time. In comparison, only two percent of the Hampshires, six percent of the Suffolks and eight percent of the grade lambs died from lack of sufficient milk.
Pneumonia losses averaged about eight percent among Targhee,
Hampshire, and grade lambs, but jumped to 11 percent among the Suffolk
ewes.
An Illinois study reported last fall showed, that Hampshire
lambs seemed to be more susceptible to pneumonia than Shropshire, South- down and Rambouillet lambs.
This latter study summarized the University's flock records from 1921 to 1957 and covered 4, 231 lambs of the four breeds mentioned above. The records showed that Rambouillets showed an average death loss of 15 percent; Shropshires, 17 percent? Southdowns, 21 percent; and Hampshires, 23 percent.
Mansfield points out that about five million lambs die before weaning every year in the United States. This represents a loss of ap- proximately 50 million dollars in gross farm income.
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1EWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University Of Illinois Offers New Agricultural Communications Program
URBANA — For the first time this fall, students at the Univer- sity of Illinois will be able to enroll in a new program specifically designed to prepare them for a wide variety of careers in agricultural writing, broadcasting, advertising and public relations.
The details of the new "major in agricultural communications" were outlined today by Dean Louis B. Howard of the College of Agricul- ture and Dean Theodore Peterson of the College of Journalism and Com- munications. The program is offered jointly by the two colleges.
Both Deans Howard and Peterson pointed out that the joint program was developed over a period of several years to meet a steadily growing demand from business, industry and educational institutions for college graduates with specialized education in both agriculture and journalism and communications.
"The need is especially great," Dean Howard said, "in the growing and increasingly important and complex fields of agriculture business.
"Firms and industries which produce goods and services for farm families as well as those which buy, process and distribute agri- cultural products have a growing need for young men and women who know agriculture on one hand and who also know how to write effectively, how to prepare and present radio and television programs, and how to design and carry out effective advertising and promotion programs."
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Under the new plan, students will follow a generally pre- scribed sequence of courses in agriculture and may select one of three optional sequences in journalism and communications. The options in- clude news-editorial, advertising and radio-television, and by use of electives, the student may take some courses in all three options. The bachelor of science degree will be offered by the College of Agriculture.
Dean Peterson emphasized, that the program has received en- thusiastic endorsement from business and industry leaders who were asked to review it.
The director of public relations for a large feed manufactur- ing company stated, "There is a distinct need for men with majors in agricultural communications. We need specialists in this field such as this program will provide."
Similar endorsements were received from representatives of farm papers and magazines, advertising agencies, and. agricultural co- operatives. One wrote, "I would say that your new program appears to be an excellent academic preparation for what is surely becoming an in- creasingly significant and exciting field."
The Extension Editorial Office of the College of Agriculture has been assigned administrative responsibility for the new major which will be outlined for the first time in the University's 1961-62 Under- graduate Study Bulletin available to students next month.
Hadley Read, head of the Extension Editorial Office, says high school students who would like to receive more information re- garding the new program may write to his office, 330 Mumford Hall, Urban a.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feed Grain Program To Provide Some Help? Substantial Readjustment Required
URBANA — The emergency feed grain program recently passed by Congress will provide some additional income for Corn Belt farmers. The amount of help will depend on the degree of participation and the handling of feed grain stocks, the head of the University of Illinois department of agricultural economics believes.
Harold G. Halcrow points out that the open market corn price is difficult to predict and will depend heavily on the policies and administration of the program by the U. S. Department of Agriculture.
If the sign-up for the program is small and Commodity Credit Corporation sales continue high, the open market price can decline from present levels. On the other hand, if the sign-up is large with a bil- lion bushels of corn or more becoming eligible for loan, these sales from government stocks will have to be heavy to prevent market prices from rising to near loan rates, he explains.
Here is how Halcrow appraises the current farm problem:
1. The outlook for agriculture is for continuation of the cost-price pattern of recent years. There is little in the current picture — barring major war — to suggest that farmers will see a return to the prices of the early 1950 's.
2. Food will continue to be one of the great bargains of our
society and farm problems will continue to be one of the major domestic
issues.
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3. Price trends in this country reflect the broad shift in world markets as the effects of World War II and the Korean War recede into the background.
4. Substantial readjustment in agriculture is required to provide for efficient family farm operation and adequate incomes for farm people. Output per man-hour is expected to increase by more than 35 percent in the next ten years and capital used, by the average farmer will more than double.
5. Increases in size are not always necessary, however. We should not aim for bigness alone and exclude most efficient use of the labor and capital that is available.
6. To facilitate needed farm adjustments, farm people must have employment opportunities, an adequate credit system, educational opportunities for young people, expansion of industry and economic de- velopment in rural areas. These are areas where government policymakers and others Interested in agriculture should devote more attention, Halcrow concludes.
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HDG : cm 4/17/61
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Farmers Tell Rewards, Problems Of Raising SPF Pigs
URBANA — Ninety percent of the first generation specific pathogen-free (SPF) pigs raised on Illinois farms survived, according to a survey of SPF swine producers. The questionnaire was submitted by Dr. J. R. Pickard, University of Illinois extension veterinarian.
The survey involved only primary stock which are removed from the sow by hysterectomy and raised in isolation on a colostrum- free diet. Because they lack antibodies needed to fight off low-grade bacterial infections, they must be raised in completely sanitary sur- roundings. After four weeks in the laboratory they are moved to clean farms.
Specific pathogen-free pigs are free of specific diseases, such as atrophic rhinitis, virus pig pneumonia and specific intestinal dis- eases.
Dr. Pickard* s questionnaire indicated only 10 percent of the 550 SPF gilts sent to farms have died. "In no case did a pig die from atrophic rhinitis or virus pig pneumonia, two diseases responsible for the development of the SPF program," Dr. Pickard emphasized.
Sanitizing farms before bringing in SPF stock is one of the most difficult requirements to meet, according to SPF producers.
"All swine must be removed from the farm for six weeks before introducing SPF stock so the area can be cleaned and disinfected," Dr. Pickard explained. "During this time the farmer has no income from the sale of market hogs."
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Once SPF stock is on the farm, strict sanitation practices must be enforced. This, SPF producers say, is another difficult re- quirement. But as one man wrote, "Once the SPF program is established it doesn't require any practices that shouldn't be a matter of routine on any swine farm. "
Many believe sanitation requirements include raising pigs on concerete, wood or slatted floors. According to questionnaire answers, most SPF swine producers raise their pigs on dirt. This is an accep- table practice providing the soil is free of ascarids or roundworm eggs and harmful bacteria.
One man who raised two groups of SPF pigs on dirt where no hogs had been for 15 years and two groups on concrete, reported the con- finement pigs did better. But they were more prone to stiffness or arthritis, he wrote.
"No one was disappointed with the problem of pig health, " Dr. Pickard said. Bacterial and dietary scours, stiffness and gut edema caused the most trouble, but treated pigs quickly recovered. As one man wrote, "I never saw a pig recover so fasti"
Another point in the survey concerned placing SPF boars in
non-SPF herds, a practice questioned by many farmers and researchers.
While this has been done with apparently satisfactory results, the
merits of this practice are still questionable, according to Dr. Pickard.
He advised farmers using SPF boars in open herds to "observe the boars carefully for any signs of illness and to seek veterinary help immediately if illness occurs."
Dr. Pickard concluded from the survey that problems encountered with first generation SPF stock are primarily laboratory problems. "Per- formance in the field as revealed by the survey has been encouraging, " he said. "The SPF program has been firmly launched."
-30- CP:ml 4/17/61
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Four Illinois 4-H'ers To Attend National Conference
URBANA — Four Illinois 4-H Club members have been chosen to represent the state's more than 72,000 4-H'ers at the 31st National 4-H Conference this week in Washington, D. C, April 22-28.
The conference delegates are Martha Bliss, 19, CooKsville; Dawn Mathre, 20, DeKalb; Clifford Scherer, 19, Claremont? and Jerry Reusch, 19, Scales Mound.
These young people will join 4-H'ers from throughout the United States at the conference which is designed to develop citizen- ship and rural leadership and to improve program planning in 4-H.
The group will tour national shrines and government buildings in Washington. They expect to meet President Kennedy, Secretary of Agriculture Freeman, and other representatives of the federal government
Three of the delegates are enrolled at the University of Illi- nois. Martha Bliss and. Dawn Mathre are enrolled in home economics. Clifford Scherer is a sophomore in the College of Agriculture. Jerry Reusch is farming at home.
Delores Parrott and R. O. Lyon of the state 4-H staff at the
University of Illinois will accompany the group at the conference.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, APRIL 26, 1961
U. of I. Scientists Discover How Antibiotics Kill Fungi
CHICAGO — University of Illinois plant disease researchers have discovered how the antibiotic Ascosin kills fungi.
Speaking before the American Society of Bacteriologists, William Dowler explained that many antibiotics are known to prevent or control diseases. But exactly how they do this often remains a mystery.
Several examples of fungi are molds, rusts, mildews, smuts and mushrooms. Sometimes they cause harmful plant and animal diseases.
David Gottlieb, S. Ramachandran and William Dowler studied how fungi use sugar for energy. When they added the antibiotic Ascosin to a sugar solution, they found that the fungi could not utilize the sugar.
Then they broke up the fungal cells, without spoiling the en- zymes of the cells so that they were no longer alive. This allowed them to better study how the antibiotic stopped the fungi from using the
sugar.
They found that the antibiotic seemed to combine with the en- zyme site in the cells of the fungi. Normally these enzymes are neces- sary for utilizing sugar in the presence of oxygen. By combining with the enzyme site, the antibiotic stops the enzyme from working.
Since this pathway for utilizing sugar to produce energy is
blocked, fungi cannot use the sugar. Therefore the fungi starve to
death.
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FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 27, 1961
Small Particle Of Virus Can Cause Infection, Scientist Reports
CHICAGO — A University of Illinois scientist has made a new contribution to the knowledge about the elusive plant viruses, the cause of many diseases.
Previously some scientists had believed that a virus lost its infecting ability when it was diluted sufficiently in certain solutions. It was believed that a certain dose of virus was needed to cause an in- fection.
Speaking before the Society of American Bacteriologists, H. H.
Thornberry reported that a certain virus did not lose its ability to cause infections when highly diluted. It just became too sparse for detection with usual tests on five or six plants.
In his research Thornberry used the tobacco mosaic virus. He prepared a highly diluted solution of the virus and then applied it to 600 bean plants. Some plants became infected even though the applica- tion had been made with a highly diluted solution that would normally have been considered non-infectious.
From this test Thornberry suggests that a single virus par- ticle is capable of causing an infection on a. susceptible host.
Since the tobacco mosaic virus remains infectious though
highly dispersed, Thornberry reasons that other viruses causing plant
diseases may also remain infectious even though diluted beyond the
point of detection by usual tests.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Soil Moisture Supply Below Normal; More Than Average Rainfall Needed
URBANA — The soil moisture supply in many parts of the state is only 70 to 80 percent of capacity this spring, a University of Illi- nois soil scientist reports.
L. J. McKenzie says that some further build up in moisture supply may occur during April. But subsoil moisture deficits cannot be fully satisfied unless April and early May rainfall is 50 percent or more above normal.
After May 15, water use by plants and evaporation rises so much that a recharge of moisture below 18 inches seldom occurs, McKenzie explains.
A build up of moisture to the full capacity of the soil since the last growing season is very necessary/ McKenzie emphasizes. During June, July and August water use by plants and evaporation is far above the amount of rainfall. Plants must be able to draw from the moisture reserve stores in the soil.
During early March, soil scientists from the Soil Conservation Service and the Agricultural Research Service made moisture tests on 19 different soils over the state. Only four of these soils had been recharged to 90 percent or more of their water holding capacity. On five soils, the stored moisture measured 70 percent of capacity or less.
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The results of this survey suggest that better than average rainfall will be needed for good crop yields this year. This condition also existed in 1956. Excellent rainfall through the growing season however/ helped produce good yields that year.
University of Illinois agronomists suggest that farmers avoid overworking their fields to keep the soils as porous as possible. Cul- tivating after a rain breaks up surface crusts and also increases mois- ture absorption. Moderate corn plant populations, such as 12,000 an acre on Cisne soils and 16, 000 on Muscatine soils, may produce better yields than unusually high populations if summer rainfall is only normal or less.
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U. Of I. Studying Vitamin A- Deficiency From Different Angle
URBANA — University of Illinois beef cattle scientists are studying the puzzling vitamin A-deficiency problem from a different angle this spring.
They are conducting basic research to determine what connec- tion the deficiency may have to feeds high in nitrates and nitrites.
A. L. Neumann, head of the beef cattle division, explains that vitamin A-def iciencies are occurring in feeder cattle even though their rations provide adequate amounts of carotene.
Carotene is the forerunner of vitamin A found in feeds and forages. It must be converted to vitamin A in the animal body before it can serve its function. Neumann feels strongly that nitrites may be slowing up its rate of conversion and causing the vitamin A deficien- cies. But just how is not well understood.
To describe this relationship more clearly, Neumann explains that thick planting rates and heavy nitrogen fertilization of corn in- creases the amount of nitrate in the corn plant. When cattle eat corn silage high in nitrates, their bodies absorb the nitrate. Then the ni- trates change to nitrites within the body.
These nitrites have the ability to destroy carotene in the blood stream. Therefore it's possible that cattle receiving adequate supplies of carotene can develop vitamin A-deficiency symptoms if they are also receiving too much nitrate in their feed.
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To learn more about this angle, Neumann and his co-worker, G. F. Smith, are currently feeding steers corn silage made last fall from four different fields:
Field 1: Heavy nitrogen fertilization — thick planting rate
Field 2: Normal nitrogen — thick planting rate.
Field 3: Heavy nitrogen — normal planting rate.
Field 4: Normal nitrogen — normal planting rate.
Neumann explains that thick planting rates increased the amount of nitrates in the silage about as much as heavy fertilization did
Results of these tests will be presented at Cattle Feeders'
Day next spring.
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UI Tests Show Fiberglass/ Straw, Sawdust Are Best Tile Filter Materials
URBANA — Fiberglass with plastic, straw and sawdust gave the best protection against soil movement into farm drainage tile in recent University of Illinois tests with seven common tile filter materials.
U. of I. agricultural engineer Ben Jones says the research also showed that (1) filter materials are invaluable aids against sil- tation in sandy or uniform silt soils, and (2) that it's not necessary to completely surround the drain with filter material.
Researchers conducting the tests found that covering only the top and sides of the drain gave as much protection against siltation as covering the entire drain.
Filter materials tested included; (1) corn cobs, (2) fiber- glass over the top three- fourths of the drain, (3) fiberglass over the top three- fourths and a plastic sheet under the bottom one-fourth, (4) graded gravel, (5) sawdust, (6) straw and (7) topsoil.
The fiberglass-plastic combination, straw and sawdust, in that order, provided the best protection against soil movement into the drain. There was no significant difference between any two of these top three materials.
Graded gravel, fiberglass over the top three-fourths of the drain and topsoil ranked fourth, fifth and sixth respectively. Corn cobs ranked last and provided only slightly better protection than no filter material at all.
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Cobs used in the tests were taken directly from the sheller and ranged from about one to four inches long. Researchers feel this length made the cobs far too coarse and may have accounted for their poor protection against soil movement.
Jones says topsoil gave significantly poorer protection than any material except corn cobs and the three-quarter-wrap fiberglass. Even so, the topsoil gave protection hundreds of times superior to that of no filter material at all.
In explaining the success of covering only the top and sides of the tile with filter material, Jones pointed out that soil entered, first at the bottom of the drain, but originated almost entirely from above the tile.
By covering the top and sides of the drain, researchers were able to stop this soil movement. None of the filter materials re- stricted water flow to the drain tube.
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Wheat Disease Strikes On Illinois Farms
URBANA — Serious outbreaks of Mosaic disease in wheat have struck wide areas of central and south central Illinois, a University of Illinois plant pathologist reported this week. The disease has been found in many counties never before having an outbreak of the disease. It is believed to be the most serious in more than 15 years.
M. P. Britton says the disease is caused by a virus present in the soil at all times. But the long, cool spring and high moisture conditions in March and April are responsible for the heavy damage re- ported this year.
The most noticeable symptoms are yellow, light purple or light green areas within a field, usually in the low spots. The wheat in the diseased area is stunted and although it may go on to produce some wheat, yields are less than from the normal plants.
How much yields will be cut is hard to say at this time, Britton points out. Farmers who have the disease in their fields will want to check it closely after the weather warms up to see if the crop is worth saving.
No control has been found for the disease once it strikes a crop of wheat. Growing resistant varieties is the only way to keep it from a farm.
The most resistant varieties are the soft winter types, how- ever. Knox, Saline, Seneca, LaPorte and Vermillion are highly re- sistant to both mottle and rosette mosaic. Concho is the most resist- ant hard wheat and Westar is also considered moderately resistant.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Food Chain Stores Have Phenomenal Meat Buying Power
URBANA — A University of Illinois livestock specialist reports that the power of food chain stores in buying meat dramatically reflects consumer preferences.
As an example, G. R. Carlisle cites one nation-wide food chain that buys a phenomenal 50 million pounds of meat every week. Because of the consumer's preference for lean meat, this chain buys cattle grad- ing either top good or low choice. And it prefers carcasses that weigh less than 700 pounds.
In hogs, this chain prefers animals grading U. S. No. 1 and weighing around 200 to 220 pounds.
Carlisle says these facts are ample proof that livestock pro- ducers will profit by raising animals that meet chain-store specifica- tions.
The livestock specialist made these observations while attend- ing a meat-packing company tour in the East. The group toured food chain stores, packing companies and several outstanding farms. Visits to broiler farms and processing plants in Delaware were one of the trip's highlights.
One processing plant turns out an almost unbelievable 5,500 birds an hour at an average of 4 cents per pound of dressed bird.
The keen competition between meat animals and broilers amazed Carlisle. He reports that the Del Marva area produces enough broilers in one year to equal the meat from one million steers.
The cost per pound of dressed broiler, ready for selling to retailers, averages 24 cents. Meat animals simply cannot compete with broilers at this price. Therefore livestock producers must produce a quality meat product for which consumers will pay a higher price than they pay for broilers.
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
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HVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
URBANA, ILLINOIS
(Note to Editors: This is the first in a series of three stories about
termites, their characteristics, identification, damage, control and selection of an exterminator.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mud Tubes Indicate Presence of Termites
URBANA — Termites are a common problem in many areas of the United States, including southern Illinois, but not too many people know much about them.
H. B. Petty, University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey entomologist, answers some of the most common questions asked about these wood-chewing insects.
How is termite damage to wood different from other damage? Termites eat the soft part of wood, leaving the annual ring intact. The remaining shell is in layers and in a splinter-like condition. Ter- mites also seal their runways and feeding areas with mud. Carpenter ants, on the other hand, gouge large, smooth areas out of wood, irre- spective of grain. And their galleries are free from mud. Powder-post beetles make tiny tunnels in the wood, producing a fine, powdery saw- dust. Several fungi also cause wood to rot, but the wood appears charred or crumbly with no apparent tunnels.
How are termite infestations found? Swarms of flying ter- mites are visible in the spring. And mud tubes built over concrete are signs of termite activity. These tubes are usually found on inside basement walls and over outside foundations. Weakened lumber may also indicate presence of termites. With an icepick or screwdriver, tap lumber to test it for weakness.
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How soon will structural damage occur? Termites may feed in wooden buildings for years before they do any serious structural damage. In fact, damage doesn't occur until the colony is 8 to 10 years old, un- less the ground contained a large population before the building was constructed.
What are termites? They are colonial insects that feed on wood or wood products, such as paper. Protozoa in their digestive tracts convert wood cellulose into usable food.
How are termites distinguished from flying ants? A flying termite is always black. A flying ant may be black, yellow, tan or almost red. The rear wings of an ant are noticeably shorter than the forewings; the two pairs of wings of a termite are the same size. An ant has a narrow waist just behind the wing-bearing section of the body; the termite does not. Antennae of termites are straight, whereas those of ants are elbowed.
Where are termite colonies located? Because termite colonies need a constant supply of moisture, most of them are located in the soil.
How do they enter a building? Wood in contact with soil pro- vides an unexposed path for termites into buildings. Basement windows, porches, door sills, wood supports through concrete slabs and siding are just a few other ways. Cracks in concrete foundations are also hidden entrance-ways. When no wood touches the soil and no entry-ways are available, termites will build mud tubes over the foundation and up into the building.
Why do they build tubes? The humidity throughout the entire
colony must remain fairly constant, since termites die rapidly under dry conditions. Therefore, they build these mud tubes to maintain correct humidity. In addition, they also seal their feeding area with mud.
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(Note to Editors: This is the second in a series of three stories about
termites, their characteristics, identification, dam- age, control and selection of an exterminator.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Provide Termite Control Measures Before Contruction
URBANA — It's far easier to take termite control measures while a building is under contruction than it is to exterminate termites from the finished building.
If a "word to the wise" is sufficient, contractors and do-it- yourself builders will heed this advice from H. B. Petty, University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey entomologist.
Here are some termite control suggestions from Petty for buildings under construction;
1. Remove stumps and wood debris from the building site be- fore contruction begins. Apply one gallon of 1/2 percent dieldrin or
2 percent chlordane to each square yard of surface before concrete slab is poured, As the soil is replaced around the foundation or footing, mix the chemical with the soil at the rate of one gallon for every 3 or 4 linear feet with shallow foundations or for every 1 or 2 linear feet with deep foundations. Put insecticides in each space of concrete block foundations.
2. Do not bury scraps of lumber or other wood, debris in the backfill.
3. Avoid all contact between soil and woodwork of the build- ing, if lumber does contact the soil, use chemically treated lumber.
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4. Provide ventilation openings in the foundation. This will dry the soil in unexcavated areas.
5. Install a termite shield between the foundation and the superstructure to help detect an infestation. The shields will not keep termites out of a building, but forces them to build their tunnels in the open where they are visible. However, if there are breaks in the shield, termites will find. them.
6. If possible, provide enough clearance beneath all parts of the building to allow room for inspection.
If all these precautions are taken, chances are the building will never harbor termites.
This is good insurance, as exterminating termites from al- ready constructed homes or other buildings is sometimes difficult. However, do not be alarmed if you find termites in your house. Study the situation carefully to see how serious the problem is. If you think you can do the exterminating work yourself, ask your farm adviser for a copy of NHE-57, "Facts About Termites." Or write to Petty for a copy. His address is 280 Natural Resources Building, Urbana, Illinois.
If your termite problem seems extremely complicated, contact
a dependable exterminator.
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(Note to Editors: This is the third in a series of three stories about
termites, their characteristics, identification, dam- age, control and selection of an exterminator.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Entomologist Tells How To Select Exterminating Company
URBANA — Perhaps you are one of the many home owners who has discovered termites in his home at some time and didn't know what to do. Or perhaps you'll have this problem in the future.
If you do, do not become alarmed, advises H. B. Petty, en- tomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey. It takes years for termites to cause any serious structural damage, so take your time and study the situation carefully to see how serious it is.
If you cannot do the needed work, select a dependable exter- minating company. This is sometimes difficult for, as with any other business, quality of workmanship varies between exterminating companies. Some would rather make a fast dollar than do a good job, but most com- panies give excellent service and are a benefit to their community.
To help you select a. dependable exterminating company, Petty has these suggestions:
1. Do not accept as bona fide badges or pocket credentials from itinerant exterminators who solicit door-to-door business.
2. Check with your better business bureau for companies they suggest. Or, if there are no exterminators in your community, check with the better business bureau in the city where the company is located. Friends who have employed exterminators may also have suggestions.
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3. Get bids from two or more companies.
4. Ask the company representative any questions you may have about their methods.
5. Ask to be billed for the work. This gives you time to observe results of the extermination. If company representatives de- mand payment before they do the work or immediately afterwards, this may indicate they want their money so they can "scram."
6. If you sign any contract, read the fine print as well as the large print. Be sure the company can back up its work with re treat- ment if control is not satisfactory.
For more information about termites, ask your farm adviser for a copy of NHE-57, "Facts About Termites." Or write to Petty for a copy. His address is 280 Natural Resources Building, Urbana, Illinois.
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"Lepto" Antibodies May Persist For 6 Months
URBANA — Leptospirosis antibodies transmitted to calves via the cow's first milk may persist for as long as six months, a Univer- sity of Illinois veterinarian discovered, during an eight-year study of leptospirosis in cattle.
According to Dr. L. E. Hanson, 50 percent of the three-month- old calves tested had leptospirosis antibodies in their blood. Some still had detectable antibodies at six months.
Dr. Hanson said he did not expect such persistence, because antibodies are absorbed from colostrum, the cow's first milk, for no more than 48 hours following the calf's birth.
When antibodies were no longer effective. Dr. Hanson began a vaccination program in order to evaluate leptospirosis vaccine. Half of the three- to five-month-old calves were vaccinated and the others left untreated. Vaccination, which was repeated at six-month intervals, gave good protection.
"Although only a few animals developed detectable antibodies after vaccination, definite protection was induced by vaccination, " Dr. Hanson said. Also, no adverse effects were observed.
Dr. Hanson worked with Dr. M. E. Mansfield and Dr. A. B.
Hoerlein on the eight-year study at the Dixon Springs Experiment Sta- tion. They found that serum from all calves contained the same anti- bodies present in their dams' serum. Also, the amount of antibodies in the calf's serum corresponded quite closely to its mother's antibody level.
Dr. Hanson revealed the findings of this study during the 11th annual meeting of the Southwestern Conference on Diseases in Na- ture Transmissible to Man held in Bryan, Texas, last week.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Select Seven Illinois Youth For Foreign Exchange Program
URBANA — Seven Illinois farm youth have been selected to repre- sent the United States in foreign countries under the 1961 International Farm Youth Exchange (IFYE) program.
The Illinois delegates and the countries they will visit are William Guy Beeler, McLean, Ceylon? John Martin, Louisville, Pakistan? Dale Black, Kankakee, Jordan? Margaret Allen, Delavan, Netherlands? Jean Rushton, Minooka, England-Wales? Judith Sanders, Greenville, Colombia? and Walter Griffith, Galesburg, Sweden.
Margaret Allen, Jean Rushton, and Walter Griffith left for their assigned countries on March 30. All other delegates will, be in their exchange countries by late October.
The Illinois IFYE delegates were selected for outstanding leadership in 4-H and other farm youth activities. They join more than 100 U. S. delegates in 41 countries throughout the world.
Hugh Wetzel, Illinois IFYE chairman, points out that more than 1,200 U. S. young people have visited 50 countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, the Pacific area and the Middle East since the IFYE program began in 1948. In exchange, 1,300 young people from 60 foreign countries have lived with more than 18,000 farm families here in the United states.
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Under the program each IFYE delegate stays with four to 12 farm families during his four- to six-month stay in the exchange country, To broaden the impact of the program, the delegates must share their experiences with youth groups, rural organizations, civic clubs and others when they return to their home countries.
U. S. delegates have given their impressions of foreign countries to more than six million people through talks alone. And they reach many more through radio and television programs and news- paper and magazine articles.
The IFYE program in Illinois is supported by voluntary con- tributions and by funds from the Illinois 4-H Foundation and the Na- tional 4-H Foundation.
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Grain Dealers Complete Night Course
URBANA — Sixty-seven grain dealers and industry representatives "graduated" from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture Thursday night. The certificates they received did not confer any degrees. But these men had shown that they would go to school one night a week when the teacher presented a subject that interested them.
For the past 12 weeks, T. A. Hieronymus, U. of I. professor of agricultural marketing has presented a weekly seminar on grain futures trading. Despite their busy schedules, 83 grain elevator opera- tors, merchants and processors have averaged more than 90 percent at- tendance over the 12-week session. Those who attended eight or more sessions were awarded certificates.
Interest in the course was so high that Hieronymus divided the group into two sections. Each section met once a week, on Tuesday or Thursday night, for three hours.
In these sessions the grain men learned how futures trading works, how a grain exchange operates, how cash prices compare with futures prices, how hedging is carried on and many practical phases of futures markets in the grain industry.
Hieronymus believes the high interest by the grain men in this night seminar is a clear demonstration of how the University serves many people outside the regular full-time students on the campus.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Yield Is Still Key Factor In 1962 Corn Prices
URBANA — Even with a new government program, old man weather still holds the answer to corn prices in the year ahead. This year's yields will have a much greater influence on 1962 prices than the acre- age diverted from corn, a University of Illinois agricultural economist stated this week.
L. F. Stice lists three major factors that will set the corn price next year: yields on the planted acreage, the amount made eli- gible for support and the amount sold from government stocks.
Last year's record-size corn crop was produced on 82.1 million acres with a record-high average yield of 53 bushels. Before 1958, yields averaged below 50 bushels an acre.
The amount of corn eligible for loan depends on how many farmers sign up in the 1961 feed, grain program. If 30 percent of all feed grain producers signed up, the production from about 24.6 million acres would be eligible for support. If yields averaged 52 bushels, Stice figures that about one billion bushels would qualify for the loan. This much corn in the loan would not leave enough "free" corn for market use, so prices would rise to near the loan price, he believes.
A signup of 50 percent of all corn acreage would make about 1.7 billion bushels eligible for loan and tighten free market supplies even more.
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Sales of government corn will also influence prices. When a. farmer participating in the feed, grain program exchanges his certifi- cates for cash, he authorizes the CCC to sell corn from its stockpile. But the amount it can sell in this way is equal to only about half the cutback in production. Perhaps even more significant, the sales authorized by certificates are equal to only one-eighth to one-third of the corn made eligible for price support.
Besides the corn that can be sold through certificates, the government can also sell corn that is in danger of going out of condi- tion. Much corn has been sold in the domestic market in the past through this means. In addition, the Commodity Credit Corporation can also sell corn for export, although it is not now doing so to any great extent.
How will government sales influence corn prices next year?
Sale of noncertificate corn will probably have more influence than sales
permitted under the 1961 feed grain law, Stice concludes.
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Research Points Up Value Of Early-Cut Hay
URBANA — University of Illinois research dramatically illus- trates the value of cutting hay in the bud or early-bloom stage.
U. of I. dairy scientists compared dry matter yields, feeding values and dairy cow consumption rates of bud-stage and full-bloom alfalfa-bromegrass hay. Here's what they found:
1. Although the fuil-bloom hay yielded more dry matter per acre, the bud-stage hay yielded 207 pounds more protein per acre.
2. The bud-stage hay contained 1,201 pounds less crude fiber
per acre.
3. Feeding trials showed that cows preferred and ate more of
the early-cut hay.
Of these three advantages for bud-stage hay, the higher con- sumption rate is probably most important, explains U. of I. dairy scientist John Byers.
Byers says dry matter consumption per 100 pounds of body weight was 2.13 pounds for second-cutting bud-stage hay and only 1.89 pounds for second-cutting full-bloom hay.
This indicates that a 1,500-pound cow would eat 3.6 more pounds of the bud-stage hay per day than of the full-bloom.
Carrying these figures further, a 100-cow herd on full-bloom
hay for a six-month feeding period would require the equivalent of 20 tons of shelled corn to replace the nutrients lost in the consumption gap between the two types of hay.
Considering the nutritional value of the hay plus the consump- tion per cow, Byers says this research indicates that one acre of hay cut in the bud stage is equal to one acre of full-bloom hay plus 10 bushels of shelled corn.
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Face Flies Already Spotted; Control Now Will Reduce Later Numbers
URBANA — The troublesome face fly has already been spotted in Illinois this spring, reports Steve Moore, entomologist with the Uni- versity of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
The flies have been found in cow herds north of a line between Greene county and Edgar county. The number averages up to 35 per head, depending on the weather.
Flies seen so far are adults that have over-wintered in build- ings and other locations. They are either laying eggs now or will soon start. Therefore immediate control measures can reduce the populations this summer.
For control, Moore advises painting the forehead of each ani- mal with a face fly bait. Most baits contain syrup and 2/10 percent of the insecticide DDVP. The syrup attracts flies to the bait; the DDVP finishes the job. Bait left over from last year has probably lost its effectiveness.
Face flies, which resemble house flies, are easily identified because they cluster on the faces of cattle, horses and open-faced breeds of sheep, such as Corriedales. The flies feed on the eye secre- tions. Through annoying the animals, they cause reductions in weight gains and milk production, as well as general irritability.
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Here's What To Do In Case Of Tornado
URBANA — University of Illinois safety specialist 0. L. Hogsett says knowing what to do when you see a tornado may mean the difference between life and death. Here are a. few suggestions:
Keep calm. It won't help to get excited. Tornadoes usually move in a northeasterly direction at about 25 to 40 miles per hour. If one is coming toward you* move at right angles to its path.
If there isn't time to escape, lie flat on the ground face down in the nearest depression, such as a ditch or ravine. If possible, get into a. culvert.
If you are at home and you don't have a cyclone cellar, the southwest corner of the basement usually offers the greatest safety. If you don't have a basement, make arrangements now to take shelter in your neighbors basement.
If time permits, shut off electricity and heating appliances. And, open doors and windows on the north and east sides of the house. This will equalize air pressure and may save your house from destruc- tion.
Hogsett points out that the purpose of a tornado warning sys- tem is to give you 10 minutes to take these precautions. They could be the most valuable minutes of your life,
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Soil Temperatures May Be Too Low For Vegetable Seeds
URBANA — Joe Vandemark, University of Illinois vegetable crops specialist, warns that soil temperatures may not be high enough for germination of some vegetable seeds.
Cool temperatures and heavy rains have stopped the soil's temperature from rising to the minimum level needed for seed germination in many parts of Illinois. Planting seeds before the soil reaches this minimum temperature does not produce a*) earlier crop and may result in fewer plants.
Some seeds, such as lettuce and onions, can stand cold soil temperatures and still be alive when the soil warms up. But others, such as beans, sweet corn and vine crops, will rot if they remain in cold soil too long.
How should you take the soil's temperature? Simply take a regular thermometer and push it down about three inches in the garden site.
Here are the vegetables that germinate at fairly low soil temperatures — around 50 degrees F. : beets, cabbage, carrots, lettuce, onions, peas, radishes, spinach and turnips.
Vegetables that require about 60-degree soil temperatures include snap beans, cauliflower, cucumbers, parsley, sweet corn and
tomatoes.
These vegetables require high soil temperatures, around 68
or 70 degrees: lima beans, eggplant, peppers and watermelon.
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Three Wheat Grading And Marketing Schools Scheduled.
URBANA — Southwestern Illinois grain dealers can learn the latest wheat grading techniques and marketing developments at three schools announced this week.
Dates and places are May 24, Sparta; May 25, Jacksonville; and May 26, Hillsboro. Each school will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the farm bureau building.
During the morning session, R. 0. Weibel, University of Illi- nois agronomist, will report on wheat varieties and diseases. L. F. Stice, U. of I. extension marketing economist, will discuss price dif- ferences for hard and soft wheat. Martin Banish, state ASC official, will present 1961 wheat loan storage regulations. R. M. Schneider, superintendent of grain inspection for the Illinois Department of Agri- culture, will tell about state laws governing grain inspection, ware- housing and sale of treated wheat.
During the afternoon program, 0. P. Wise, U. S. Department of Agriculture grain inspection supervisor at St. Louis, will review wheat grades and grading procedures. U. S. licensed grain inspectors will supervise wheat grading practice by school participants.
Each school is open to grain dealers or other interested per- sons without charge. These programs are sponsored by the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service and the Grain Inspection Depart- ments of the Illinois and U. S. Departments of Agriculture.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. of I, Agronomy Day Set
URBANA — University of Illinois agronomists will roll out the red carpet for visitors to Agronomy Day at the University's South Farm, Urbana, Wednesday, June 28.
Visitors will have an opportunity to get a first-hand story of research results as well as to see test demonstrations of the newest developments o
Tours of 18 research plots will start at 9:30 a.m. and con- tinue throughout the morning, says Fred Slife, this year's Agronomy Day chairman „
Two agronomists will be on hand at each tour stop to explain the research work. Tours will last about 3 1/2 hours. The stops in- clude:
The Insect Situation? Soybean Diseases; Research in Agronomy?
Soil Moisture Studies? Wheat Varieties? Oat Varieties? Breeding Oats for Yellow Dwarf Resistance; Grow a Good Lawn? Fertilizer Studies on Soy- beans? Studies on Soil Organic Matter? Weed Control? Establishing Legumes With Chemicals? Alfalfa Varieties? New Machines for Harvesting Forage Crops? Fertility Studies on Corn? Rotation Studies? Production Potential of Illinois Soils? and Mycorrhiza of Field Crops.
Lunch will be available at the Agronomy Farm or, if visitors wish, they may bring their own, Slife said. Last year about 1,200 per- sons attended Agronomy Day.
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Bone Darkening In Poultry A "Sign Of The Times"
URBANA — Last time you chewed on a drumstick, you may have noticed that the meat near the bone and the bone itself was an abnormal shade of reddish brown.
No doubt your next thoughts went something like this:
"My gosh!" Didn't the wife fry it long enough?"
"Maybe the ol' bird had spoiled."
"I know!" A hormone that farmers stuff into their chickens probably caused it."
None of these reasons, of course, is correct. Bone darkening in poultry is simply a sign of the times, reports University of Illinois poultry specialist, S. F. Ridlen.
You see, we live in an age of speed. We travel faster, pre- pare meals faster and manufacture cars faster. Speed has also reached into the barnyard. Modern research has developed rations that help pro- duce tender broilers and fryers in record time — about nine weeks. It previously took 14 weeks.
The bones of chickens only nine weeks old have not completely
calcified or hardened. This condition liberates the hemoglobin in the
blood when the young broilers and fryers are frozen and thawed. The hemoglobin leaks through the spongy bone wall, discoloring the bone and the meat surrounding the bone. Cooking changes the hemoglobin's red color to various shades of reddish brown.
Ridlen assures us that bone darkening does not affect the quality, aroma, flavor, texture or even the taste of meat — just its appearance.
So, until scientists devise a. method to stop bone darkening, just shut your eyes next time you chew on a darkened drumstick.
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Ask For Fusarium-Wilt- Immune Tomatoes
URBANA — Home gardeners should ask for tomato plants from vari- eties that are immune to Fusarium wilt if they want to be successful tomato growers.
M. B. Linn, University of Illinois plant pathologist, suggests
two varieties that are available from some plant growers: K C 146 and
Manalucie.
Many gardeners know Fusarium wilt disease as "yellows." The
disease's first symptom is a yellowing or brown discoloration of the
lower branches. As the disease develops, the entire plant wilts and dies.
The first signs of Fusarium wilt generally appear about the
time of bloom or soon after the crown-cluster flowers set. But the in- fection may occur at any time, Linn said.
The disease is caused by a soil fungus that enters the roots and invades the plant's food and water channels. Scientists believe a toxic substance secreted by the fungus causes the plant to wilt and die.
This wilt is one of the most prevalent field and greenhouse tomato diseases in Illinois, according to Linn. In damp weather a pinkish-white growth may be seen in wounds or on leaf scars of plants killed or severely infected by the wilt organisms.
The disease is favored by hot weather. And Linn comments that the high summer temperatures common in Illinois cause infections to develop rapidly. Plants sometimes die within two to four weeks after the symptoms appear.
The immune varieties, K C 146 and Manalucie, are not affected by wilt at any temperature. Resistant or tolerant varieties are not apt to be affected when soil temperatures are below 70° F. The wilt- resistant or tolerant varieties are Rutgers, Garden State, Pritchard, Marglobe, Break o' Day and Queens.
Linn warns gardeners not to grow tomatoes on the same ground more than once in three years. Light infestations of wilt can be greatly increased by too- frequent tomato cropping.
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Veterinarians Believe Radiated Food Will Be Safe
URBANA — University of Illinois veterinarians are working hand in hand with government officials to uncover a possible peacetime use for radiation — sterilizing food.
Drs. E. F. Reber and 0. P. Malhotra, veterinary research workers, believe radiation will be a safe method of sterilizing food. They base their opinion on the results of intensive tests made on rats, dogs and cats.
"The animals had no ill effects from eating radiated beef, " Dr Reber said. "And they received just as much nutrition and grew as well as animals fed plain beef."
For two years research workers in the College of Veterinary Medicine tested the wholesomeness or safety of radiated beef on a dozen beagle dogs. The testing process was a complicated one, because the University does not have facilities for handling powerful doses of radia- tion.
The food was sterilized under the direction of the Quarter- master Corps. The cans of beef were immersed in water and radiated with gamma rays of spent fuel elements from atomic power plants. After being sterilised, the beef was shipped to the University. "The dogs given radiated beef ate less than the dogs given plain beef," Dr. Reber re- ported, "but they gained just as much weight."
Dr. Reber and Dr. Malhotra worked with Drs. P. D. Beamer, H. W. Norton and J. P. Kreier on this project. The College of
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Veterinary Medicine laboratory was one of four laboratories throughout the country commissioned by the government for this work.
This two-year experiment is just part of the long chain of experiments with radiated food. Other tests have shown that radiated food does not change the number of white blood cells and the hemoglobin content of blood. But radiated food does affect the blood-clotting mechanisms of rats, and it may enlarge the heart of mice and affect reproduction of dogs by reducing the number of offspring. These, along with other possibilities, are being tested to find out how radiated food will affect human beings.
If food sterilized with radiation does appear on the market, it will have several advantages. Organisms causing botulism, trichinosis and other poisons will be completely destroyed. Also, meats, fish, vegetables and fruits can be kept in light-weight transparent containers at room temperatures.
But radiated food will have one disadvantage: It will prob- ably introduce new flavors and odors just as frozen and canned foods did.
Years of research will be required before consumers may see
radiated, food in the supermarkets along with frozen and canned goods.
But when they do, they'll know that veterinarians and other scientists
are absolutely certain it's safe.
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IIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2,4-D Weed Killer Also Attacks Flowers and Tomatoes
URBANA — The most popular weed killer, 2,4- D, also effectively kills tomatoes, grapes, beans, flowers and certain ornamentals.
Do not use 2,4-D near these crops, warns Fred W. Slife, Uni- versity of Illinois agronomist.
Before using chemicals, home gardeners and farmers should carefully read the directions on herbicide containers.
Unfortunately, many gardeners give their flowers as well as weeds a dose of weed, killer, Slife said. And during midsummer months these gardens show dead ornamentals and flowers as well as dead broad- leaf weeds.
Slife recommends these guides for using 2,4-D safely:
1. Do not apply any form of 2,4-D on a windy day.
2. Use only the amine formulation in areas where sensitive crops are grown, and keep a safe distance away from sensitive crops.
3. Do not apply when the wind is blowing toward a sensitive crop.
4. On farms and fields next to sensitive crops, use other
weed control chemicals. A wide variety of pre-emergence chemicals is now available for corn and soybeans.
5. To reduce the amount of small spray particles, don ' t use
more than 30 pounds of pressure, and increase the amount of water to
10 gallons per acre.
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Drift of spray particles is one way 2,4-D damage occurs, Slife said. When field or roadside sprayers are used, many fine particles are released into the air. Wind blowing toward a sensitive crop usually causes injury. How far the particles travel depends on their size and the speed of the wind.
If the wind is blowing toward a sensitive crop, do not apply 2,4-D within one mile. In general, 2,4-D should not be applied when the wind speed is above 10 miles an hour.
A second type of damage is caused by volatility of 2,4-D on sprayed plants, according to Slife. Vapor from the ester form can be as harmful as the spray particles. A shift in wind direction may carry the vapor to sensitive crops.
The high- volatile esters produce the most vapor. The lower ones start vaporizing when temperatures go above 60 F. The low-volatile esters are safer to use.
The amine form of 2,4-D is nonvolatile. Use only this form in areas where sensitive crops are grown. Be extremely careful to keep spray particles from drifting.
In 1959 the Illinois State Legislature passed a law that can
prohibit use of 2,4-D in certain areas. This law has been invoked in
Cook County and will undoubtedly be applied to other areas unless 2,4-D
is used carefully, Slife said.
One major insurance company in Illinois has excluded coverage of 2,4-D ester from its farm liability policy because use of this form cannot be defended, in court cases. The amine formulations are not ex- cluded.
For more information on use of 2,4-D, ask your farm adviser for College of Agriculture Circular 808, Preventing 2,4-D Injury to Crops and Ornamentals. You can also get a free copy from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, 112 Mumford Hall, Urbana, Illinois.
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Full-Fat Soybean Meal Performs Well In Illinois Hog Tests
URBANA — University of Illinois tests indicate that full-fat soybean meal can increase the efficiency of hog gains, reports D. E. Becker, head of the swine division.
Becker included the full-fat meal in a standard ration and fed it to growing pigs until they weighed 115 pounds. He also fed the same ration, containing regular soybean meal, to similar pigs. Both rations provided 16 percent protein.
Pigs fed the full-fat meal gained 1.71 pounds daily and re- quired 2.44 pounds of feed per pound of gain. Pigs fed the regular soybean meal gained at the same rate, but required 4 percent more feed per pound of gain.
Becker continued his comparison of the full-fat meal and regular meal after the pigs reached 115 pounds. But he dropped the protein level to 12 percent which is the usual recommendation. This time the pigs fed full-fat soybean meal required 12 percent less feed.
Full-fat soybean meal consists of dehulled soybeans which have been ground and heated, but from which the oil has not been ex- tracted. It contains about 41 percent protein and 21 percent fat. Regular soybean meal contains about 1/10 percent fat.
Becker explains that he and his colleagues are investigating full-fat soybean meal to study its value in giving extra energy to hog rations. Energy costs more than any other ingredient in swine rations, It makes up at least 75 percent of the total ration cost.
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Both carbohydrates and fat found in corn and soybean meal contribute energy in swine rations. But fat has twice the energy value of carbohydrates. And. full-fat soybean meal has considerably more fat than regular soybean meal or corn.
Therefore, Becker wants to find out how much full-fat meal can be included in swine rations to increase efficiency of gains. The rations might contain more full-fat meal than if a regular meal were used.
More tests are necessary, however, to find the economic value of full-fat soybean meal as well as its effect on carcasses. Prelimi- nary tests indicate that it may produce a fatter and softer carcass. But the average percentages of lean cuts did not differ greatly from those of pigs fed a regular soybean meal.
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Weed Killers Of Today May Promote Crop Growth Tomorrow
URBANA — Farmers today consider 2,4- D and similar chemicals their friends in the constant fight against weeds. Yet farmers of to- morrow may use some of these same chemicals to boost crop growth and yields.
Minute proportions of these chemicals have increased yields of the common bean more than 10 percent above average in University of Illinois tests, reports Joe Vandemark, vegetable crops specialist.
This report may not surprise some farmers. If they have sprayed fields with weed killers and some spray drifted onto nearby crops, they may have noticed a more vigorous growth and yield in crops that received small amount of drift.
But the eld saying, "If a little bit is good, more is better," does not apply here. A little bit of weed killer, about one pound for every 1,000 acres, will not kill weeds or crops? instead it will stimu- late growth. But increasing quantities will stifle weeds and have no effect on crops.
Amount and time of application are important in the role of weed killers as growth stimulators. The amount needed to stimulate growth is so small that it's hard to comprehend. For example, the spray left in a spray can after it's washed is more than enough to treat one acre.
In his tests, Vandemark used maleic hydrazide (MH) and 2,4-D
on snap beans. Many months of investigation finally showed, that a
ratio of 100 parts of MH to one part of 2,4-D works best in stimulating
growth and yields. This combination slows up top growth, increases
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growth of side branches and causes a larger pod set. The result is more uniform yields without much delay in maturity. And the nutritional value of the bean is improved.
Tests have shown that it's best to apply MH and 2,4-D in a single treatment. Plants should be sprayed the first week after emergence with sufficient material to cause runoff.
Tests will continue this summer to learn more about the growth-stimulating abilities of these chemicals. Vandemark and his co-workers are testing them on more crops and hope that they can de- velop a practical use for this new technique.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Elsie's Better, Thanks
To Dentists, Veterinarians
URBANA — This was not an ordinary dentist's office. The usual dental instruments were replaced with king-sized ones, and the chair was transformed into a metal restrainer designed to keep the head immobile.
The patient was a cow whose teeth had worn down to mere stumps, making it almost impossible for her to eat and drink. Kers was a common but tragic ailment.
The "dentist, " a veterinarian, quickly mixed a cement mixture and filled metal crowns shaped like Elsie's teeth. Elsie seemed com- pletely unconcerned as she stood with her head in the restrainer and a block in her mouth to keep her tongue out of the way.
She patiently waited as, one by one, the veterinarian placed the cement-filled crowns over her stumps, which had been cleaned and dried. Within minutes, Elsie had a new set of incisors.
This new dental technique will greatly prolong Elsie's life, according to Dr. R. L. Brewer, University of Illinois veterinarian.
"With this technique cattle can continue to eat, " he ex- plained. "Naturally, eating will increase their weight, prolong repro- ductive life and thus bring the farmer more money. "
Until tooth capping was introduced last year, certain condi- tions made mature cattle worthless within three years. "Sand in sandy
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pastures or acid from beet pulp diets completely wore their teeth down," Dr. Brewer explained. "There was nothing anyone could do."
The situation was hopeless until a Nebraska dentist, Dr. Ward Newcomb, introduced, this technique. He designed eight types of stain- less steel crowns for different sizes and shapes of teeth. Then he tested the crowns with cattle for over a year before releasing his dis- covery.
Dr. Brewer spoke enthusiastically about the tooth-capping technique. "During the three-year experimental period, there was little wear on the crowns, " he said.
He claimed that the technique is a tremendous money-saver, for now only the teeth and not the cattle have to be replaced.
Some people claim that cattle with capped teeth increase in weight and milk production. This and other claims will be studied by Dr. L. E. Boley, University of Illinois veterinarian, and other veteri- narians during a five-year experimental program to begin next week at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station.
"We'll cap one group of 7- and. 8-year-old cattle with worn teeth and leave another tooth-worn group uncapped," Dr. Boley explained. "Through this controlled experiment we'll be able to find out how effec- tive the capping is."
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Sheep Parasites Can Become Resistant to Phenothiazine
URBANA — Phenothiazine, used successfully to combat sheep stomach worms for years, has lost much of its effectiveness, according to University of Illinois research workers.
Dr. Norman Levine, parasitologist of the University of Illi- nois College of Veterinary Medicine, said tests show that some sheep parasites have developed resistance to phenothiazine. Dr. Levine worked with a team of University veterinarians, animal scientists and statisti- cians in making the tests.
"We tested animals before giving them phenothiazine, then after giving them regular doses and finally after giving them double doses, " Dr. Levine explained. "Phenothiazine had no effect on stomach worms . "
Testing was done by counting the eggs laid by the worms. There was no difference in the number of eggs before and after treat- men t .
Like many other discoveries, this one was made by chance. While teaching graduate students how to recognize parasites, Dr. Levine had them gather fecal samples from a nearby sheep farm.
"The students were supposed to get some samples from sheep that were suspected of having worms. But when the group arrived at the farm, nobody was there, so they gathered samples at random."
Back in the classroom the students examined the samples and found plenty of worms to identify. But this routine assignment netted
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surprising results, for the students had accidentally taken samples from sheep that were supposed to be completely free from worms!
After this first discovery, Dr. Levine and the class enlisted the aid of other veterinarians, animal scientists and statisticians, and testing began.
"Sheep on this farm had been treated with phenothiazine for 19 years," Dr. Levine said. "This is the first time phenothiazine resistance has been found in Illinois, although researchers had dis- covered it before in other parts of the country."
Research workers are now trying to find effective treatments
to combat these parasites.
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In The Event Of Atomic War Veterinarians Will Give Medical Aid To Injured
URBANA — Veterinarians will play a major role in aiding casu- alties in the event of atomic war, according to Dr. Harold Boothe, Chicago veterinarian who has worked in civil defense since 1955.
Veterinarians will assist in operations, insert stomach tubes, administer blood and intravenous solutions and perform other medical duties.
"This relieves physicians of functions which others can per- form," Dr. Boothe said, "and ensures the fullest possible use of all available personnel resources."
The American Medical Association has asked, veterinarians to perform these and other functions during an all-out war. In many respects the only difference between a physician's practice and a vet- erinarian's practice is the patient — techniques are similar, and instru- ments usually differ only in size.
Veterinary hospitals and clinics will become centers of activity in suburban areas and small cities, as these places seldom have human hospitals.
"Our hospitals are well supplied with equipment that can be readily adapted to the care of disaster casualties," Dr. Boothe said. Veterinary supplies include surgical instruments, X-ray facilities, oxygen equipment, bandages and dressings, sterilizers, sedatives and anesthetics, antibiotics and drugs.
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surprising results, for the students had accidentally taken samples from sheep that were supposed to be completely free from worms I
After this first discovery, Dr. Levine and the class enlisted the aid of other veterinarians, animal scientists and statisticians, and testing began.
"Sheep on this farm had been treated with phenothiazine for L9 years," Dr. Levine said. "This is the first time phenothiazine resistance has been found in Illinois, although researchers had dis- covered it before in other parts of the country."
Research workers are now trying to find effective treatments
to combat these parasites.
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un.vers.ty of ,ll,no,s COOPERATIVE EXTENSION WORK IN AGRICULTURE AND HOME ECONOMICS
URBANA, ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE. COOPERATING
May 26, 1961
To Illinois Daily Newspaper and Radio Stations:
The 1961 state convention of the Illinois Future Farmers of America gets under way on Tuesday, June 6, at the State Fairgrounds in Springfield* As in pre- vious years, it will involve FFA boys from your area as delegates, award winners or special participants. We have instructed each chapter to give you this infor- mation, but some may fail to do so. You could probably turn up some good local stories by calling FFA chapters or vocational agriculture teachers in your area to find out who is attending the convention and for what reasons.
Our office has been asked again to handle state -wide coverage for the convention. We have already mailed one advance story, and during the convention we will make direct mailings from Springfield. Stories wiH include such develop- ments as selection of the State Star Farmer, honorary Star Farmers, chapter award winners and new state officers, as well as major business proceedings.
A team from our office will establish Press Headquarters on the second floor of "Convention Hall" (the Fairground1 s Exposition Building) to provide the following coverage:
Press: Convention stories will be written and mailed to newspapers from Press Headquarters at the Fairgrounds.
(Special Press Coverage) For stories on what FFA members from your area do at the convention, contact your local FFA adviser. We have sent him suggestions for writing stories and sending them to you. If you would like pictures of boys from your area, our photographer can supply them.
Radio: Radio stations will also receive the stories on major convention developments. Stations receiving our regular tape service will get taped inter- views with new state officers and the State Star Farmer the week after the conven- tion.
(Special Radio Coverage) For taped interviews with local FFA boys at the convention, contact your local chapter. Give the chapter representative or adviser a tape, and tell him what type and length of interview you would like, With our recording facilities at Press Headquarters, we will record the interview and mail the tape to you immediately.
Let us know if there is any way in which we can help you cover this major Illinois farm youth event. And if you plan to attend the convention, weTll be look- ing for you at Press Headquarters.
Sincerely yours,
Hadley^ead Extension Editor
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vllVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FFA Members Seek Star Farmer Award At State Convention
SPRINGFIELD — Only five outstanding young men representing more than 16,000 Illinois Future Farmers of America members now remain in competition for the coveted Illinois Star Farmer Award.
This is the highest state award available to Illinois FFA members. The winner will be announced at the State FFA Convention in Springfield June 6-8.
The final contenders include Dale E. Cohenour, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Dale E. Cohenour, Sr., Sterling; LeRoy '•Dutch'1 Klitzing, 18, son of Mrs. Elizabeth Klitzing, Altamont; Donald L. Knepp, 18, son of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Knepp, Washington? James Wilson, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Wilson, Stanford; and Richard D. Winter, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Norman Winter, Burnt Prairie.
Selection of the Star Farmer Award winner is based on the over-all size, growth and earnings of his FFA-supervised farming ac- tivities. Scholastic ability and school and community activities are also considered.
Each of the five final contenders raise as much as 100 acres of corn, soybeans, small grains and legumes. They also raise beef cattle, dairy cows, hogs or sheep, in addition to studying and carrying on the usual high school activities.
The Illinois FFA is part of the official nation-wide organiza- tion of high school vocational agriculture students. Illinois has nearly 500 chapters. H. R. Damisch, chief of Illinois agricultural education, is the official adviser to the Illinois FFA.
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Here's The Latest On Pelleted Feeds For Dairy Cattle
URBANA — Although no entirely practical method of pelleting feeds for dairy cattle has been developed, interest in concentrate and hay pellets is growing among the nation's dairymen.
And growing equally fast is the number of questions dairymen ask about pelleted feed.
University of Illinois dairy scientist Leo Fryman says results of tests conducted at Oregon State College comparing pelleted hay with both baled and wafered hay are typical of those in many recent trials.
In the Oregon tests, cows consumed hay at about the same rate in all three forms. The three cow-groups on test also produced about the same amount of milk. However, cows on pelleted hay showed a sig- nificantly lower fat test than those in the other groups.
Fryman says one explanation for this fat test drop is that ground and pelleted hay passes through the rumen too fast for complete bacterial fermentation.
Feeding some long hay or silage with pellets usually solves this problem. Butterfat tests weren't affected when researchers fed cows unground hay in the wafered form.
Fryman says that probably the greatest benefit from pelleting grain for milking cows is in the more rapid consumption rate. Some re- searchers find that pelleting boosts grain consumption rates by about 25 percent. This indicates that pelleting may come in handy when cows are milked in a parlor where time allotted for eating grain is limited.
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Fryman says it's usually not practical to put the entire ra- tion, both concentrates and roughage, together in one pellet. That's because individual production levels in a herd usually vary. For most economical production, the proportion of concentrate to roughage should vary with each cow's production.
U. of I. research with dairy calves shows that they eat con- siderably more pelleted hay than long, chopped or ground hay. As a result, they eat less grain with pelleted hay.
Fryman points out that from a nutritional viewpoint it doesn't
make any difference whether the calf starter is in pellet form or fed
as a meal. However, when calves are allowed to choose between meal and
pellets, they eat slightly more of the pelleted starter.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuberculosis Finds Another Host — Deer
URBANA — Tuberculosis, a long-time threat to man and farm ani- mals, has found a new host in the U. S. — deer.
Two white-tailed deer, pets of an Illinois farmer, became the first TB cases ever reported in deer in the state, according to Univer- sity of Illinois veterinarians. Dr. P. D. Beamer, now in India, was the first to suspect the disease.
"Once Dr. Beamer was convinced that it was tuberculosis, we spent two years tracking down the source of infection," Dr. Deam Ferris said. He, along with Dr. Beamer, Dr. J. 0. Alberts and conservation officials traced the source first to northern Wisconsin and then to Michigan.
The real culprits, they concluded, were men or cattle, as deer are often raised, on dairy farms in Michigan, Wisconsin and Minne- sota.
Deer are becoming more popular as pets on Illinois farms,
according to Dr. Ferris. And with this increasing popularity comes
the increasing danger that deer will contract and transmit TB. Dru Ferris
urges farmers to have newly purchased deer tested for TB.
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Armyworms Spotted In Southern Illinois; Farmers Should Be On The Alert
URBANA — Armyworms have been spotted in southern Illinois barley and wheat fields, reports H. B. Petty, entomologist with the Uni- versity of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
So far the small size of the worms has prevented an accurate count. Therefore it's still too early to tell how serious the problem may become.
But Petty advises Illinois farmers to keep alert. Armyworm outbreaks usually occur first in timothy and other grassy fields. These are the places where moths lay their eggs in the spring. Later out- breaks occur in barley, rye and wheat fields. If you find worms here, check other locations.
If there are six or more worms per linear feet of row, control measures will pay. However, wait until worms are half-grown, about one- half inch long. Until they reach this size, they cause little damage.
Petty recommends 1 1/2 pounds of toxaphene or 1/4 pound of dieldrin per acre for treating small grains. Allow seven days between treatment and harvest when using dieldrin; seven days when using toxa- phene on wheat, but 14 days when using toxaphene on barley.
For beef pastures, use toxaphene. Allow 42 days between the
last grazing on treated pastures and slaughter. For dairy pastures,
use two pounds of methoxychlor or one pound of malathion per acre. Do
not graze for one week following treatment.
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U. of I. Livestock Judging Team Wins Regional Contest
URBANA — The University of Illinois livestock judging team made almost a clean sweep of the North Central Intercollegiate Livestock Judging Contest recently held at Ohio State University.
The Illini, coached by W. W. Albert, won the over-all contest as well as the beef cattle and swine judging divisions. Other competing teams included Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ohio State Universities, Purdue University and the Universities of Wisconsin and West Virginia.
Illinois team members included. Gene Weber, Thawville, who placed first in individual swine judging and first in over-all judging; Donald McAtee, Greenview, second high individual in over-all judging; John Webb, Clinton, first in beef cattle and fifth in over-all; Charles Bickelhaupt, Mt. Carroll, first in sheep and seventh in over-all? and Larry Duies, sixth in over-all.
Other Illini competing in the contest included Phillip L.
Dollahon, Seymour; Marvin Hayenga, Baileyville? Lance Humphreys, Gilson;
Jon Proehl, Manito; and Duane Haning, Minier.
Seven more Illinois students who competed in a livestock evaluation contest included Roland Yeast, Atlanta; James Schoonaert, Washington; Delbert Dahl, LaHarpe; Robert E. Sipp, Dunlap; Ken Fuller, Aledo; Lendell Dierker, Forest City; and Charles Spears, Shelbyville.
All boys are juniors in the College of Agriculture.
This was the first contest for Coach Albert's 1961 team. Next fall the team will compete at the American Royal, Kansas City, and the International Livestock Exposition, Chicago.
The 1960 U. of I. team also won the spring regional contest and the American Royal contest, and placed fifth at Chicago.
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Governor Kerner To Address Final Session Of State FFA Convention
SPRINGFIELD — Governor Otto Kerner will address the final ses- sion of the Illinois Future Farmers of America Convention at the State Fairgrounds Thursday evening, June 8.
The same session will also highlight the naming of the State Star Farmer award winner and outstanding Illinois citizens to receive Honorary State Farmer degrees.
The list of Star Farmer candidates has narrowed down to five: Dale Cohenour, Sterling; LeRoy Klitzing, Altamont; David Knepp, Washing- ton; James Wilson, Stanford; and Richard Winter, Burnt Prairie.
The convention, which opens Tuesday morning, June 6, will attract more than 1, 500 Illinois FFA members from every corner of the state. The three-day program features speaking contests, presentation
of special awards, election of 1961-62 officers, business sessions and entertainment.
Presiding over the various sessions will be the current offi- cers: President Lynn Laible, Toluca; Vice-President Dan Crumbaugh, LeRoy; Secretary- Treasurer Bryan Koontz, Hillview; and Reporter Ron
Gehrig, Wyoming.
The Future Farmers of America is the official organization of
high school boys enrolled in vocational agriculture. Illinois has
nearly 500 FFA chapters.
The official advisor of the Illinois FFA is H. R. Damisch,
chief of agricultural education, Springfield. G. D. Coil, also of
Springfield, serves as executive secretary.
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Farm Advisers Go Back To "School" At Annual Conference, June 5-8
URBANA — About 170 Illinois farm advisers and their assistants will return to school next week.
This back-to-the-classroom venture is all part of the annual summer conference for agricultural extension workers. University of Illinois staff members are presenting 19 different courses to the con- ference participants.
Each adviser will enroll in two 10-hour courses. Subjects include all phases of crop and livestock production, insect and disease control, lawn care and landscaping, farm policy analysis and improved methods of carrying out extension programs.
As local representatives of the University in every county of the state, farm advisers and their assistants are constantly questioned about latest farming problems. The home owner also seeks advice about garden and lawn care.
Besides the class sessions, extension workers will hear about the latest administrative developments from Dean Louis B. Howard, state director of the Cooperative Extension Service, and. J. B. Claar, associate director.
The annual conference brings advisers up to date on latest
developments to better serve all citizens in their counties.
(Note to Editor; You might want to get more details from your local farm adviser.)
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR A. M. RELEASE FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 1961
Richard D. Winter Receives FFA's Highest State Honor
SPRINGFIELD — Richard D. Winter, a 17-year-old high school senior from Burnt Prairie in White county, last night received the Illi- nois Star Farmer Award, the highest state honor an FFA member can
achieve.
This annual award goes to the Future Farmer member with the
most outstanding record. Richard received the award at the closing ses- sion of the 33rd annual State FFA Convention last night at the State
Fairgrounds.
Richard, son of Mr. and. Mrs. Norman Winter, is a member of the
Carmi FFA chapter. He became a member four years ago as a high school freshman. The FFA is the official organization of high school boys en- rolled in vocational agriculture courses.
In addition to their usual school work, FFA members also carry on supervised, farming programs. During his freshman year, Richard raised five head of beef cattle and eight acres of corn. By his senior year, his farming program included 48 beef cows, 25 acres of corn, 30 acres of oats, 10 acres of legume hay, 25 acres of soybeans and 10 acres of wheat.
In his FFA chapter, Richard served, as vice-president during his freshman and sophomore years and as president in his junior and senior years. He has previously been named FFA Sectional and District
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Star Farmer, won the Sectional Small Grains Production Contest and Extemporaneous Speaking Contest and. won his chapter's beef production contest for two years.
In school, he's a member of the National Honor Society, Senior Executive Council, Prom Committee, Honor Roll and various committees. He has also competed in soil, dairy and livestock judging contests. His vo-ag teacher is Ernest 0. Johnson.
Richard will now compete for the regional Star Farmer Award.
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Brandly Tells Man's Role In Poultry Diseases
URBANA — Man can not only become the victim, but also the transmitter of Salmonellosis, Newcastle disease, Q fever and other poul- try diseases, Dr. Carl Brandly told a. group of poultry scientists today. Dr. Brandly, dean of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, spoke at the 12th annual North Central Poultry Disease Con- ference which met at the University.
Man, according to Dr. Brandly, is susceptible to both bacte- rial and virus infections common in poultry. Salmonellosis and staphylococcus infection are caused, by bacteria; Newcastle, Q fever, encephalitis and ornithosis are caused by viruses.
"Both salmonella and staphylococcus cause food poisoning or local infection in man, who in turn passes the diseases on when sorting and sexing chicks," Dr. Brandly said.
Newcastle is an occupational disease that usually strikes flocks, flock owners and scientists working in diagnostic laboratories or making live vaccines. "Newcastle disease usually affects the eye," he explained, "but lung and generalized infections also occur in man."
Both Q fever and ornithosis result in fever that may last several weeks in man, according to Dr. Brandly. Until now, Q fever in poultry has been reported only in European countries, but growing tourism increases the chances of its becoming a problem in this country,
Encephalitis, or sleeping sickness, is most common in pheasants and pigeons, Dr. Brandly said. Birds may remain carriers for a long
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time without showing signs of this disease, which is transmitted from animal to man or vice versa by mosquitoes.
"Man is often the chief offender in spreading these diseases, " Dr. Brandly said. This knowledge, along with increased knowledge about other means of transmission, is aiding veterinarians in setting up bet- ter control methods. These methods include environmental sanitation, destruction of sick and carrier birds and proper use of vaccines and other therapeutic agents.
"In spite of some disease hazards, the poultry industry pro- vides man with employment and an economical and nutritious source of animal protein, " Dr. Brandly said. Also, poultry eat grain and other agricultural products and thus reduce the agricultural surplus.
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Home Owners Should Check Evergreens For Bagworms
URBANA — Home owners can stay a jump ahead of bagworms by checking evergreens and other trees and shrubs now for these odd little fellows.
Bagworms are now hatching in central Illinois and will soon hatch in the northern sections, reports Steve Moore, entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
These black worms consider evergreens and a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs quite a delicacy. They may strip the leaves, damaging deciduous trees and possibly killing evergreens.
Since bagworms are easy to control while they're small, Moore
advises spraying about June 15 in central Illinois and about July 1 in
northern Illinois. Southern Illinois home owners can spray any time
after June 1. Here are several recommended sprays:
Lead arsenate: Use 1 tablespoon in one gallon of water. Or mix 4 pounds in 100 gallons of water.
Ma lath ion (50 percent liquid) : Use 2 teaspoons to make one gallon. Or mix 1 quart in 100 gallons of water.
Malathion (25 percent wettable powder) : Use 1 tablespoon in one gallon of water. Or mix 4 pounds in 100 gallons of water.
Toxaphene (60 percent liquid) : Mix 3 teaspoons in one gallon of water, or use 3 pints in 100 gallons of water.
Moore says that malathion will also control any mites that might be present. But malathion can injure Cannart red cedar.
Spray trees and shrubs thoroughly. If it rains soon after spraying, spray again.
Bagworms are so named because they build bags with silken threads and bits of leaves and twigs. Everywhere the worm goes, his bag goes.
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Red Stele Disease Now Showing Up In Strawberry Plants
URBANA — If your strawberry plants aren't too healthy-looking, chances are they have a root rot called red stele disease.
Frank W. Owen, University of Illinois fruit crops specialist, says that symptoms of red stele are now showing up in commercial and home strawberry plantings.
Wilted leaves that are rolled, at the edges are the first sign of the disease's presence. The leaves take on a dull lead cast instead of a bright, healthy green. The plants become stunted and berries dry up. Root tips die and then the entire plant soon dies.
To find out definitely whether red stele has infected your strawberry plants, dig up the roots of several plants. If the stele, or center core, is red or brown, the plants are infected.
Unfortunately this disease cannot be cured. Once it infects a strawberry patch, turn the plants under. Planting varieties that are resistant to red stele is the only way to prevent the disease. Three such varieties include Surecrop, Vermilion and Sparkle, which is also known as Paymaster.
There are, however, several strains of the red stele disease. And Surecrop will resist more strains than the other two. If you have lost your strawberry patch to red stele disease this spring, try plant- ing these three varieties next spring.
Owen explains that Illinois' cool, wet spring has increased the number of red stele cases. Normally it occurs only in low, poorly drained areas. But under cool, moist conditions, it strikes varieties planted on well-drained areas.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois FFA Elects New State Officers
SPRINGFIELD — Four outstanding young men were elected Thursday (June 8) as new state FFA officers to lead the more than 15,000 Illi- nois Future Farmers of America.
The new officers, elected at the State FFA Convention in Springfield, include:
President: Kenny McMillan, Prairie City.
Vice-President: Richard Walters, Hebron.
Secretary- Treasurer: Richard Carter, Dieterich.
Reporter: Gene Grubb, Rochester.
McMillan is the 18-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Keith McMillan. A University of Illinois sophomore majoring in agricultural industries and minoring in agricultural journalism, Kenny is an honor student. He was valedictorian of his high school class (78 students), is a Univer- sity James Scholar and was just named outstanding freshman in the U. of I. College of Agriculture.
Kenny has served as sectional FFA vice-president and reporter and also as district reporter. He was also president of the Prairie City — Bushwell chapter. Kenny will drop out of school this coming year to handle the many duties required of the state president.
Richard Walters, 18, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ervin Walters of Hebron. Richard graduated from high school last year and is now
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farming 270 acres, raising Angus cattle, Berkshire and Hampshire hogs, corn, soybeans and small grains.
In his FFA work, Richard has served as director of FFA Dis- trict III and as secretary and president of the Hebron chapter. He was also named Sectional star Farmer last year.
Richard plans to be married to Donna Gile of Hebron on July 8.
"Rich" Carter is the 19-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Levi Carter, Dieterich. He also graduated last year and is now farming 200 acres with his father. They raise hogs and cattle in addition to crops.
"Rich" has served as his chapter's president, was a state finalist in FFA extemporaneous speaking last year, has been his chapter's Star Farmer, received a State Farmer degree in 1960 and was vice- president of FFA Section 20 and director of FFA District IV.
Gene Grubb, 18, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Merle Grubb, Rochester, This year Gene is receiving the Illinois FFA Foundation Award for his outstanding work in farm electrification. He has served as his chapter's president; has won chapter production awards in corn, soybeans and soil and water management; has been named his chapter's Star Farmer; and has received the DeKalb Outstanding Senior award.
Gene has received, a four-year Air Force scholarship, but has
not decided where he will attend college.
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Illinois State 4-H Club Week Set For June 21-23
URBANA — Some 1,200 Illinois 4-H Club members and leaders have been named delegates to the Illinois State 4-H Club Week program at the University of Illinois June 21-23. The big three-day event is the first of its kind since before World War II.
Main objectives of the program are to review and discuss 4-H project and activity goals in Illinois and to outline career opportuni- ties available to young people after high school. All delegates will be high school sophomores or older.
Program chairman Bill Stone of the U. of I. 4-H staff says group discussions on 4-H projects and activities, addresses by prominent speakers, tours of the U. of I. campus and career exploration sessions are educational highlights of the 4-H Club Week program.
Entertainment features include a barbecue in the giant U.of I. football stadium and a 4-H friendship party in Huff Gymnasium.
Featured speakers for the event are Mrs. Marcus Goldman, former delegate to the United Nations, and Mrs. Evelyn Millis Duvall, noted author and family life consultant.
Stone says major delegate interest could center around the
career theme of the program. Career sessions will cover a wide range of
opportunities ranging from jobs in agriculture and home economics to
business, mechanics, nursing and teaching.
A number of exhibits explaining career opportunities will be set up throughout buildings reserved for the program. Delegates also will attend a general assembly organized around the theme, "The Career in Your Future."
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Professional Farm Managers Schedule Farm Tour
URBANA — Illinois' professional farm managers will see and hear the latest on mechanized livestock feeding, field shelling and drying, grain and hay storage and artificial breeding services during their six- stop tour of northern Illinois June 22 and 23.
The tour gets under way at 10 a.m. Thursday morning, June 22, at the Northern Illinois Breeders Cooperative at Hampshire. After lunch the group will visit farms operated by Harvey Newport and Robert Newport near Belvidere. Here they will see dairy and hog production using latest feed-handling methods.
After dinner at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, tpur members will hear a panel of farmers tell how they are cutting costs and trying to avoid the squeeze due to lower prices and higher costs.
On Friday the tour moves to the Willrett-Toppe farm south of Malta. Here they will see a modern mechanized cattle feeding operation. On this farm the owner furnishes machinery and the operator furnishes
only labor.
The second stop will be on the Ronald Byro farm. Here a pro- fessional rural appraiser will report his estimated value of a modern improved 80-acre farm and an adjoining 160 acres that was bought at the same time.
After lunch the group will visit the Lewis B. Pierce Angus farm near Creston. The owner uses artificial breeding for his 150-cow purebred herd.
This tour is sponsored by the Illinois Society of Profeesional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. Glenn Oertley, Peoria, is president. Fay M. Sims, University of Illinois farm management specialist, serves as secretary-treasurer. Richard Conlin, Belvidere; Max Fox, DeKalb; Joseph Henderson, Dwight; Charles Roodhouse, Freeport; Kenneth Tucker, Pontiac? and Charles Vial, Chicago? arranged the tour.
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INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tour Stops Announced for U. of I. Agronomy Day
URBANA — University of Illinois agronomists are featuring some of the newest ideas in crop production and soil management on the Agron- omy Day tours June 28 at Urbana.
Here are some of the highlights of the 18-stop tour of crops and soils research now in progress:
M. B. Russell, head of the department, will report on research to reduce water use by crops. Research workers are covering some plots with plastic early in the season to reduce evaporation. Another study under way is the application of hexadecanol to the soil to see whether water loss through evaporation can be reduced.
A. L. Lang will show research under way on high population and high fertilization of corn. Nearby, L. B. Miller will show the study on rotations comparing corn and soybeans with a corn-soybeans-wheat-clover rotation.
B. J. Gossett will display new alfalfa seedings established with the aid of herbicides to control weeds without use of a small grain nurse crop. He will also show alfalfa in its second year that was es- tablished by using weed control chemicals and no nurse crop. The plan is to compare yields of this alfalfa with plots established by regular seeding methods.
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C. N. Hittle will display 30 different alfalfa varieties he is testing this year. This group includes some experimental types and some varieties now in use by Illinois farmers. Some are recommended for Il- linois farms and some are not.
R. O. Weibel will show around 20 different hard and. soft wheat varieties. J. W. Pendeleton will report on tests under way with 20 oat varieties and five special experimental selections. C. M. Brown will report on breeding oats for yellow dwarf resistance.
Ellery Knake will show studies under way with various weed con- trol chemicals.
D. W. Chamberlain will explain the soybean disease situation. J. W. Gerdemann will discuss root infections on field crops.
Other tour stops will include the current insect situation, soil moisture studies, tips on growing a good lawn, organic matter re- search and. fertilizer studies on soybeans.
The agronomy research farm is located, directly south of the
main University campus in Champaign- Urban a. Tours begin at 9:30 a.m.
and continue through the day. Lunch will be available at the farm
during the noon hour.
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Face Flies Becoming More Serious With Hot Weather
URBANA — Face flies, the newest insect to plague midwestern livestock, are becoming more numerous as hot weather moves into Illi- nois, reports Steve Moore, entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
These flies are so named because they cluster on the faces of cattle, horses and open-faced breeds of sheep. They feed on eye and nose secretions, and entomologists suspect that they may transmit such diseases as pink eye.
The annoyance they cause animals, however, also reduces milk production and retards beef gains.
Face fly "baits" are so far the best way to control these pests. Developed by W. N. Bruce, INHS research entomologist, most baits contain corn syrup, water and 2/10 percent of the insecticide DDVP. The syrup attracts flies to the bait; the DDVP kills them.
Moore recommends painting the foreheads of cattle and horses with a bait for 14 days after the flies first appear. Then make applica- tions as needed.
This method, however, isn't so practical for beef cattle.
Therefore Moore recommends backrubbers that contain 5 percent toxaphene
in oil. Backrubbers work especially well if they have a small flap that flops against the faces of the cattle.
Face flies also cluster on the withers, neck, brisket, legs and sides of the animal, feeding on saliva deposits or on blood from other wounds or insect bites.
Face flies were first spotted in the U.S. in 1953 and in Illi- nois during 1959.
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Note to Editor. For information on veterinary graduates from your area see attached sheets .
' Receives D.V.M. Degree
received the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree
from the University of Illinois during commencement services held in the Univer- sity stadium today. Dr. , whose parents live at ,
was one of 35 students receiving their D.V.M. degrees.
The first two years of Dr. 's pre -veterinary college
training consisted of general courses which gave him a "basic know ledge not only of liberal arts, but also of the science courses yet to face him.
He entered the College of Veterinary Medicine during his third year. Here he spent two years getting a solid science background from textbooks, lectures and classroom discussions. He then concentrated on animal diseases and medical prac- tices.
Much of Dr. *s last year was spent working in clinics
and laboratories under faculty supervision. Theory was put to practical use in diagnosing and treating disease.
During his six-year training program, Dr. received several
honors .
Dr. plans to .
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fungus May Act As Growth Stimulant
URBANA — Just about any disease worth its salt today claims to
be caused by some fancy bacteria, virus or fungus with a name you can't
pronounce.
Home gardeners and farmers will testify to that.
For example, bacterial wilt on tomatoes is caused by a little microscopic plant with the big name of Pseudomonas solanacearum, and a tiny fungus going under the name of Stemphylium solani causes gray leaf spot on tomatoes.
But University of Illinois plant pathologists say microorgan- isms are far from being all bad. In fact, most farmers inoculate legumes, such as clover, with nitrogen-fixing bacteria to get more effi- cient production.
The bacteria live in clover roots and convert nitrogen into a usable form for the plants. Not all soils contain these bacteria. Therefore, farmers put these microorganisms on the seed before planting to make sure there are enough bacteria to go around.
Now scientists find that plants inoculated with a mycorrhizal fungus grow faster and larger than those not inoculated. Last year in University greenhouse studies, corn inoculated with a mycorrhizal fungus grew much better than uninoculated corn. Onions, red clover and straw- berries also grew better.
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"The experiments were conducted in poor soil, however, and we don't know whether we'll get the same increase in fertile soil," U.of I plant pathologist J. W. Gerdemann said.
"This group of fungi are difficult to study. We need to improve our methods before we can be sure that the fungi will act as a growth promoter all the time," Gerdemann explained.
Gerdemann is on the U. of I. Agronomy Day program on June 28.
About 1,300 persons are expected to visit the Department of Agronomy
experimental fields and the College of Agriculture campus on that day.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nitrogen Takes Many Forms
URBANA — Finding the soil's ability to supply nitrogen to
plants is not an easy job# explain University of Illinois soil scien- tists.
Nitrogen takes various forms in the soil, according to agrono-
nists F. J. Stevenson and R. S. Adams. They will be on hand to talk
tfith Agronomy Day visitors at the University's South Farm on June 28.
For years soil scientists assumed that the only mineral forms Df nitrogen in soil were exchangeable ammonium ions on surfaces of clay ninerals, nitrate and nitrite.
Recently agronomists found fixed ammonium in Illinois soils. It was locked, in the skeletal framework of clay molecules. Unlike the Dther forms, these are only slightly available to plants.
The deeper down the agronomists went, the greater the propor- tion of nitrogen they found in fixed ammonium form. The nitrogen in the plow layer, however, is mostly in humus.
Humus resists breakdown by microorganisms. Scientists find that it combines with such metals as iron, aluminum and. calcium, other lumus is absorbed by the clay particles.
Many nitrogenous organic compounds are readily decomposed by microorganisms. This nitrogen is available to plants but also leaches sasily. Metal-humus and clay-humus are nature's way of conserving mmus nitrogen.
Most Illinois soils need nitrogen fertilizer to produce high /ields. To use commercial nitrogen most efficiently, farmers need to <now how much nitrogen will be available from soil forms during the growing season.
The scientists hope their studies will lead to a method for estimating the nitrogen-supplying power of the soil. So far they find that they must consider not only kinds and amounts of the nitrogen forms, but also ways in which these forms are combined with the mineral particles.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. Of I. Specialist Reports On Progress Of Home Gardens
URBANA — Illinois' many home vegetable gardens are now growing rapidly in June's warm weather, observes Joe Vandemark, University of Illinois vegetable crops specialist.
Home gardeners may have noticed, that some tomato blossoms have dropped from the first clusters. But tomatoes are setting now, and growers should apply fungicides to control plant leaf diseases. Vandemark recommends using maneb or zineb at 7- to 10-day intervals.
In south-central Illinois, tomato plants infected with both common mosaic and cucumber mosaic have been spotted. Those affected in early stages of growth may be stunted and have mottled leaves.
The most pronounced symptom of cucumber mosaic is a "shoe- string" appearance of leaves.
Gardeners spread this virus disease of plants by touching healthy plants after handling infected plants. This happens especially during pruning, tying or even cultivating. Aphids also transmit the virus and therefore should be controlled.
Vandemark advises removing infected plants and destroying them
so that the disease can't spread to nearby healthy plants.
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U. Of I. To Host First "ABC" Clinic
URBANA — An "Alert Breeders Clinic, " designed to give funda- mental information in the proper feeding, fitting, showing and selling of beef cattle, will be presented Sunday, June 25, at the University of
Illinois.
The Illinois Shorthorn Breeders Association is sponsoring the
clinic. However, anyone may attend.
A sparkling array of top cattlemen from throughout the state, as well as University animal scientists, headline the program. The pro- gram consists of four panel discussions on feeding, fitting, showing and selling. Each panel has several speakers who will discuss topics per- taining to the panel subject.
The feeding panel, for example, includes Harry Russell and W. w. Albert of the U. of I. They'll discuss "Feeding Breeding Stock" and "New Ideas in Feeding." Kenny Reynolds, Hopkins Stock Farm, Gran- ville, will discuss "Feeding Show and Sale Cattle."
The fitting panel features Steve Land, Ridgefarm; Sam Down, Wyoming; George Innes, Galesburg? and Malcolm Tucker, Chrisman. They'll discuss breaking calves to lead and stand, equipment needed for foot trimming and preparation for showing.
The showing panel will feature talks on "Stalls and Bedding, "
by Jerry Taylor, Prairie City, and "Fundamentals, Etiquette and Proce- dure, " by Les Mathers, Mason City.
The selling panel will feature talks on personal selling, auction selling and local association selling.
The program starts at 1 p.m. in the Stock Pavilion.
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PAC : mfb 6/15/61 NO
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. Of I. Staff Members Featured On Farm Materials Handling Days
URBANA — Two University of Illinois staff members are featured on the program for the 1961 Farm Materials Handling Days June 28-29 at Exposition Gardens, Peoria.
Velmar W. Davis, USDA agricultural economist at the University, will speak at 8 p.m. June 28 on the costs of different systems for har- vesting, storing and drying field crops.
Frank W. Andrew, U. of I. agricultural engineer, will discuss "Pushbuttons and Controls for Profit and Convenience" at 2 p.nu on June 29.
Along with the speaking program, about 75 exhibitors of labor- saving power equipment will display their products. These will include an automated fence-builder, automatic unloading and feeding equipment, milk handling systems, grain drying and storage facilities, control systems, farm feed mills and a variety of other farmstead mechanization equipment.
Exhibits are open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. There is no admission charge, and free parking space is provided.
Farm Materials Handling Days are sponsored by Central Illinois Light Company, Illinois Retail Farm Equipment Dealers Association, Illi- nois Valley Farmer and WMBD in cooperation with the University of Illi- nois Agricultural Extension Service.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Vo-Ag Teachers Elect Officers? Honor Members
URBANA — Jesse Keyser, vocational agriculture teacher from Lawrenceville, was elected president of the Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers at their annual meeting on the Uni- verstiy of Illinois campus June 13-15.
Elected vice-president was George Irvin, Tonica. Joe Berger, Charleston, was re-elected secretary-treasurer.
During the meeting, the members also honored the following men for having served vocational agriculture for 40 years: T. W. Clarida, Centralia; L. T. Clark, Olney; J. E. Hill, Springfield; and Walter Baysinger, Streator.
Honored for having served. 35 years were O. K. Loomis, Anna; Joseph C. Murphy, Carpentersville; J. A. Twardock, Champaign; F. H. Van Dyke, Dwight; Carl C. Lewis, Hampshire; R. D. Eiler, Highland; 0. 0. Mitchell, Kansas; L. N. Patton, Momence; N. J. Smith, Monticello; William Stumm, Pleasant Plains; R. E. Wehner, Rochelle; and Melvin Henderson, University of Illinois Vocational Agriculture Service, Urbana.
These 35- and 40-year men each received gold plates for the desk pen sets they received after serving 25 years.
Men honored for having served 30 years included E. E. Mayhew,
Chicago Heights; E. J. Thompson, Harrisburg; and Burl A. Hocking, Robinson. They each received an engraved watch from the Sears-Roebuck Foundation.
The 25-year men, who received desk pen sets, included Ray Dunn, Galesburg; L. E. Saddoris, Hinckley; C. J. Kuster, Normal; Roy Hefty, Orangeville; H. M. Strubinger, Springfield; and George Walker, St. Elmo.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Battle Against Weeds Benefits All
URBANA — With an arsenal of machines, herbicides and flame- throwing cultivators, today's agricultural research workers are waging a successful war against troublesome, costly and unsightly weeds. And the battle originally aimed to help farmers has become a benefit to home owners, gardeners and the general public as well.
Weed research was first designed to help a farmer kill weeds and lower his crop production costs. But, as a result of this work, home owners no longer need to face a lawn overgrown with dandelions, plantain, buckhorn, crabgrass and many other troublesome weeds. They can destroy them with weed-killing chemicals called herbicides.
At the same time, railroads, utility companies and highway de- partments can quickly dispose of underbrush and troublesome weeds along their right-of-ways. These groups have reduced or eliminated expensive handcutting or mowing, thanks to the modern weed control research.
The research has also aided health and safety. The danger from dreaded, itching poison ivy blisters can be eliminated. New herbicides can completely destroy this dangerous weed along roadsides, in public parks or wherever it thrives.
Motorists benefit from more effective weed control along highways through herbicide use. Better vision and a clear place to stop along the road mean safer and more pleasant driving.
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Consumers also gain from new weed control methods. The abundant supplies of high-quality fruits and vegetables now available would often be impossible without the effective weed control made pos- sible by scientific research.
Scientists scored their first major breakthrough in modern weed control when they discovered 2,4-D soon after World War II. This wonder chemical killed many broadleaf weeds without harming corn, oats, wheat or other grasses. Such troublesome weeds as field bindweed and smar tweed curled up and died when sprayed with the 2,4-D solution.
Scientists soon added another herbicide, 2,4,5-T, to their arsenal of effective weapons. When mixed with 2,4-D, it helps to kill certain weeds more effectively. It also kills woody plants and brush.
Home owners, highway officials, railroads and utility com- panies, along with farmers, soon put these new chemicals to use.
But grass-type weeds still remained unharmed by these chemi- cals and continued to be as much nuisance as ever. So scientists, like a determined group of law enforcement officers, sought new means to bring these plant pests under control.
Following the success with 2,4-D, chemical companies and ag- ricultural experiment stations teamed up to develop and test more new compounds in a search for effective and practical herbicides.
At the University of Illinois, crop scientist Fred Slife be- gan testing weed-killing herbicides in 1946. In the past 15 years he has tested about 500 different compounds to appraise their value in
weed control.
Much of the work in recent years centers on the pre-emergence
herbicides. Scientists apply these materials to the soil before the
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crop is planted. If successful, the chemicals let the planted crop grow but kill the weeds as they germinate.
In his work, Slife has found some effective pre-emergence herbicides for controlling grassy weeds in corn, soybeans and lawns. Other materials have killed the crop as well as the weeds. Sometimes a herbicide leaves an undesirable residue in the soil and harms crops grown the next year.
A research worker must check all of these things before he recommends a herbicide for general public use. He can also spot dan- gers when herbicides are not used properly. He can help the manufacturer provide directions for safe use and issue warnings of what may happen from improper use.
After scientists find out that herbicides will kill weeds, they are not always sure that a farmer can profitably afford to use them on large crop acreages. To answer this question, Ellery Knake has completed four years of tests at the University of Illinois. He care- fully counted out the foxtail stands in various corn and soybean plots. On one plot he removed all the weeds to give corn and soybeans every chance to develop without weed competition.
Knake* s work clearly convicts giant foxtail and pigweed as thieves in every farmer's corn and soybean fields. One giant foxtail per inch in a corn row robs a farmer of about 15 bushels of corn per acre. It also cuts soybean yields by 6 1/2 bushels. The natural stands of foxtail reduced corn yields by nearly 23 bushels an acre and soy- beans by 11 bushels. Pigweed also steals enough moisture and plant nutrients from the soil to cut crop yields as much as giant foxtail
does.
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The U. of I. scientists are continuing their work to determine how serious weed losses really are. They are also carrying out more herbicide weapon tests.
Slife is testing some new pre-emergence chemicals in liquid and. granular form on corn and soybean plots. So far the granules work about the same as the liquids, but many farmers find, them easier to handle and. apply.
He is also watching how some other herbicides affect crab- grass on turf plots. Weeds in parks, lawns, cemeteries and golf courses are a major nuisance.
Knake is testing the flame-killing method on weeds in corn and soybeans. This technique has worked successfully on the more brittle cotton plant. Will corn and soybeans survive short periods of intense heat while the weeds burn up? Research will soon provide the answer.
In the laboratory Slife is working with J. B. Hanson, a plant
physiologist, to determine how herbicides work to kill plants. They
have tracked the movement of herbicides through the plants with radio- active isotopes. They hope to discover what scientists still do not know — just how does a herbicide kill the plant? The answer could bring new advances in effective weed control.
Fighting weeds has become a recognized profession among re- search workers. In 1955, they organized the Weed Society of America. The group comprises about 1,200 research workers in agricultural experi- ment station and industrial research departments, agricultural exten- sion workers and others who are devoting their efforts to killing weeds.
Workers at the University of Illinois will make a public re- port on their weed research activities on June 28. During the Agronomy Day program, they will display the corn and soybean plots where they are testing new herbicides not yet available to the general public.
Weeds will probably be around for a long time. But with the many proven methods of destruction developed by research scientists, they can only live in constant fear of quick and complete destruction.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Study Fertilizer Use on Soybeans
URBANA — University of Illinois agronomists are testing soy- bean varieties for differences in yields with high levels of fertilizer.
In greenhouse experiments, varieties did show different re- sponses to equally high amounts of fertilizer.
Last year major differences among varieties were not found, however, in limited, field experiments at the University. Visitors will have an opportunity to question agronomists L. T. Kurtz and. C. E. Fulchei about their fertilization studies at the U. of I. South Farm on Agronomy Day June 28, 1961.
Soybeans have the reputation of responding only slightly, or not at all, to fertilizer. While this belief may not be entirely cor- rect, soil test calibration curves are flatter for soybeans than for sucl crops as wheat at moderate levels of soil fertility, the agronomists
say.
At low soil fertility levels, higher yields can be expected
from direct applications of plant food. For example, when soil tests for potassium are low, yields will usually double with proper applica- tion of potash fertilizers. When the P^ test for soil phosphorus is low, yields are one-third larger from use of phosphate fertilizer if other nutrients are adequate, Kurtz reports.
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Newest Foraging Equipment On Display. During U. Of I. Agronomy Day
URBANA — Agronomists and agricultural engineers are rounding up some of the industry's newest and latest foraging machinery for the University of Illinois Agronomy Day June 28.
About $35/000 worth of the most modern foraging equipment is slated to be on hand for farmers to review after touring the department of agronomy experimental fields on the University's South Farm.
Machines for large and small forage programs will be dis- played, according to Wendell Bowers, farm machinery specialist.
Some of the modern equipment to be shown are a self-propelled windrower and conditioner, a hay wafering machine, a baler with an ejector and a utility flail-type forage chopper.
Eight of the nation's farm equipment manufacturers are co- operating with the University of Illinois in displaying the equipment during Agronomy Day.
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Face Flies Help Spread Pinkeye
URBANA — Pinkeye, an eye infection that often causes blindness in cattle, appears to be most prevalent in areas invaded by face flies, according to University of Illinois veterinarians.
Dr. J. R. Pickard says that face flies not only irritate the infected area, but also spread the disease. The flies, which have al- ready been spotted in areas throughout Illinois, feed on excretions from infected eyes.
These excretions, or heavy watering, are one of the main signs of pinkeye. Another sign is the animal's actions. In order to protect affected eyes against sunlight, sand, dust and flies, the animal will keep its head lowered and its eyes partly or completely closed.
During a mild attack, the white portion of the eye becomes pink because of increased blood in the small blood vessels. Inflamma- tion causes fluid in the eye to become cloudy. The eyeball appears hazy or covered with a film.
The more acute, but common, form of the disease is character- ized by a small white or gray spot on the cornea, the transparent cov- ering protecting the iris and pupil. As inflammation of the cornea progresses, chances of losing the eye or becoming permanently blind in- crease.
"But even if the infection doesn't reach this advanced stage," Dr. Pickard said, "it does impair sight and this makes life hazardous
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for the animal. Infected animals often injure themselves, drown or are not able to find enough suitable food."
Thus severe losses in weight and production occur if pinkeye becomes established in a herd. And complete invasion of the herd is easy, as direct contact, contaminated feed, or water and flies quickly spread the disease.
According to Dr. Pickard, adding vitamin A to feed, during dry seasons or periods of scant pasture may help to prevent pinkeye. "Dry weather reduces the vitamin A level which builds tone and resistance in mucous membranes, " he said.
Other steps he recommends for controlling pinkeye are:
1. Keep flies away from cattle. You can discourage flies from attacking infected cattle by using fly sprays and keeping cattle in darkened shelters.
2. Keep infected animals isolated from healthy animals. Also, give them separate feed and water.
3. Let infected animals graze at night. Bright sunlight ir- ritates their eyes — another reason for keeping them in dark enclosures during the day.
4. At the first sign of pinkeye, see your veterinarian. Prompt treatment is necessary to reduce complicating infections and to prevent the disease from spreading.
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Not Too Late To Treat For Crabgrass
URBANA — DSMA and AMA — these may be the two magic compounds for home owners tired of battling crabgrass.
DSMA stands for di-sodium methyl arsonate, and AMA stands for amine methyl arsonate. They are chemical compounds that can success- fully control crabgrass during the summer, reports W. R. Nelson Jr., University of Illinois landscape specialist.
Several companies sell these compounds under a variety of trade names, so check the label of ingredients when buying. Follow directions on the label. As a general rule, at least three applica- tions, a week apart, are needed for effective control.
Nelson adds that proper mowing and watering helF to control crabgrass. Schedule mowing of lawns so you never cut more than 1/3 of the height, and never cut lawns shorter than 1 1/2 to 2 inches. High clipping helps to produce a dense, uniform green lawn that shades out such weeds as crabgrass.
When prolonged dry spells make watering necessary, soak the soil to a depth of six inches. Then sit back and relax for about a week before watering again. Sprinkling a little each night is harmful. It causes roots to grow close to the surface, where the soil dries out dur- ing the day, and. encourages crabgrass.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Records Show Higher I960 Farm Earnings
URBANA — Illinois farmers boosted their 1960 earnings on all types of farms in northern and southern Illinois, a University of Illi- nois farm business record summary released this week shows. Except for southern Illinois grain farms, farm earnings in 1960 were above the 1951-60 average.
A representative group of northern Illinois grain farms achieved farm and family earnings of $8,464. This figure was 29 percent above 1959 and the highest since 1956. U. of I. agricultural economist A. G. Mueller explains that this income recovery was due to favorable weather that resulted in high crop yields. Prices for hogs, milk and eggs also averaged higher.
Southern Illinois grain farmers achieved only a small increase in their farm and family earnings compared with 1959. Mueller points out that southern Illinois did not suffer the dry weather in 1959 that central Illinois farmers experienced.
Hog farms showed the largest recovery in all parts of the state. Hog farmers averaged $15.24 a hundred pounds for hogs sold in 1960 compared with $13.88 in 1959. Higher crop yields on many hog farms also helped to boost earnings.
On a group of northern Illinois dairy farms, earnings rose from $6,587 in 1959 to $8,719 in 1960. In southern Illinois, earnings
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rose from $7,319 to $7,911- Dairy farm earnings in 1960 were substan- tially above the average for the past 10 years. Mueller points out that 10 percent higher milk prices in 1960 over 1959 helped account for these improved earnings.
On northern Illinois beef farms, the records show higher earn- ings due to improved crop yields, higher hog prices and lower purchase costs for feeder cattle.
Farm and family earnings include returns to the farm family for all unpaid labor, interest on invested capital and management. Changes in the value of farm inventories and value of farm products con- sumed are also counted as income. Landlord and tenant earnings were combined on rented farms.
The University of Illinois farm business record summary is prepared annually from the actual farm account records kept by 5,500 Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Management Service cooperators.
Mueller points out that the income changes reported by the U. S. Department of Agriculture are inconsistent with the trends re- ported by the farm business record summary. Preliminary USDA figures for Illinois show a 11 percent increase in realized net income and a 6 percent decrease in total net income in 1960. Accounting and estimating methods used by the USDA do not reflect the income changes experienced by individual farmers. The USDA farm income data, however, are reason- able indicators of the over-all agricultural income situation, Mueller concludes.
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Hadley Read Named To Food For Peace Council
URBANA — Hadley Read, Extension Editor of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, has been named to the American Food for Peace Council created by President John F. Kennedy.
The Council will hold its first National Conference in Wash- ington, D. C, next Tuesday and Wednesday, June 27 and 28.
Read will represent the American Association of Agricultural College Editors on the Council. He is currently serving as president- elect of the Association and. will take over as president in July.
The White House announcement on the establishment of the Council states that it "will provide citizen leadership for both the United States Food for Peace Program and the Freedom From Hunger Cam- paign of the Food and. Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The Council will advise the Nation's Food for Peace Director, George McGovern, develop public information on world hunger, and enlist support for the attack on world hunger."
Co-chairmen of the Council are author James A. Michener and
Mrs. Raymond Clapper, widow of the famed World War II war correspondent. Other citizen members include Marian Anderson, Yul Brynner, Clark M. Clifford, Raymond C. Firestone, Dr. John A. Hannah, Danny Kaye, Murray D. Lincoln, Charles Taft, Carroll Streeter, and Drew Pearson. Representa- tives from national civic, educational, and agricultural organizations also have been named to the Council.
The first National Conference next week opens Tuesday evening with a White House reception. Conference participants on Wednesday will include Orville L. Freeman, Secretary of Agriculture; Chester Bowles, Under Secretary of State; B. R. Sen, Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; Edward R. Murrow, Direc- to of the U. S. Information Agency; and Norman Cousins, Editor of the Saturday Review.
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U. Of I. Plant Pathology Department Receives $3,000 Grant
URBANA — The Sod Growers Association of Illinois has given the University of Illinois department of plant pathology a $3,000 research grant for work on turf and lawn disease.
Wayne M. Bever, head, department of plant pathology, made the announcement today. M. P. Britton will direct the study starting July 1.
This is the first formal research project on diseases of
grasses or turf at the University.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Neat Lawns Discourage Burglars
URBANA — Vacation-bound home owners might heed this tip: Neat
lawns indicate that someone is home and thereby discourage would-be
burglars.
Neat lawns are also in better shape when their owners return,
adds University of Illinois landscape specialist W. R. Nelson^ Jr. So
he makes these suggestions to families planning vacations:
1. Ask a neighbor to mow and water your lawn. Perhaps you can return the favor when he takes a vacation.
2. Edge all sidewalks, flower beds and borders.
3. Trim formal hedges. Otherwise they'll grow too much dur- ing warm, humid, weather.
4. Weed the lawn and flower beds thoroughly.
5. Apply a mulch 1 or 2 inches deep in annual flower beds and 4 to 6 inches deep in shrub beds. Mulching conserves moisture and discourages weeds.
6. Pick annual flowers that are blooming. Ask someone to pick flowers during your absence.
7. If you have a vegetable garden, weed, it thoroughly and
give it a good watering. Ask a neighbor to harvest vegetables that mature while you're gone. He'll be happy to oblige.
8. Move potted plants inside the house to the cooler rooms. Ask someone to water them too.
9. Apply crabgrass control measures again in June.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Take Care Of That Strawberry
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Patch After Berries Are Gone
URBANA — After you've smacked your lips over the last dish of tasty strawberries from your own patch, don't turn your back and neglect the patch the rest of the summer.
Take care of the patch and it will reward you with several more productive years. If you neglect it, it may neglect you! Here's what to do, according to a University of Illinois fruit crops specialist, Bill Courter. After all berries are gone:
1. Mow off the tops of all berry plants. Use a rotary, sickle or lawn mower. Set the blade high enough to avoid damaging the crown — just remove the leaves.
2. Rake up all leaves, old straw and other debris. Burn
them.
3. To prevent overcrowding, narrow the rows to 8 to 12 inches.
Use a plow, roto-tiller, garden disk or hand hoe. Try to destroy all plant growth beyond the 8- to 12-inch width.
4. Remove all weeds left in the narrowed row.
5. Fertilize. Use 10-10-10 or 12-12-12. Apply 5 pounds for every 100 feet of row.
6. Water. Let a hose run slowly over the ground and. soak the soil six inches deep. Water whenever the patch becomes dry later in the summer.
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7. To control weeds, apply the chemical sesone, sometimes known as crag herbicide No. 1. Use one tablespoon in one gallon of water for every 200 square feet. Remove established weeds before ap- plying.
Allow runner plants to root as they form. Rows should in- crease until they are 18 to 25 inches wide. After they reach this width, remove all runner plants that form. Why? Plants that root after August 1 will not produce fruit next year.
Check the patch often for signs of insects or diseases.
The U. of I. offers three free publications that give more specific information on strawberry growing, disease and. insect control. They are:
Circular 819: Strawberry Growing in Illinois.
Circular 814: Illinois Fruit Calendar for Growers of Apples, Strawberries and Peaches.
Fruit Leaflet No. 1: Strawberry Spray and. Dust Guide.
You can pick up copies from the county farm adviser, your local representative of the University of Illinois. Or you can send re- quests to Department of Horticulture, University of Illinois, Urbana.
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Lameness In Sheep Not Always A Sign Of Foot Rot
URBANA — Veterinarians have discovered that lameness in sheep isn't always caused by foot rot, according to Dr. James Eagelman, Uni- versity of Illinois veterinarian who recently attended a national foot rot convention.
"Foot rot is often confused with foot abscess and foot scald, " Dr. Eagelman explained. Foot abscess forms pus in the soft tissues. Unlike foot rot, it does not separate the horn from the tissue under- neath and is usually limited to one foot.
Foot scald is caused by tall pasturage or forage which irri- - tates soft tissue between the claws. This irritation can open the way for foot rot infection.
Contrary to popular belief, foot rot infection does not cause heat or swelling, according to Dr. Eagelman. Confined to the horny portions of the foot, the infection forms a cheesy, foul-smelling mate- rial en the sole. As the disease advances, the foot becomes quite sensitive. The animal becomes lame.
The disease is transmitted by bacteria which contaminate wet soil and enter healthy sheep through damaged parts in the hoofs.
Once foot rot hits, sheep should be put into three classes to prevent transmission. Obviously infected animals should be put in Group A; lame, but uninfected animals in Group B? and healthy animals in Group C.
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These three groups, according to Dr. Eagelman, should not only be separated from each other, but also removed from the contaminated area for two weeks so that all harmful bacteria will die.
Before placing the sheep on uninfected ground, they should be driven through a foot bath containing a 30 percent solution of copper sulfate or 10 percent solution of formaldehyde. Each animal should stand in the solution for four minutes.
"The secret of effectively treating and controlling foot rot is to trim alway all diseased tissue," Dr. Eagelman said. "If the part bleeds, which it may, wait several hours before continuing since bleed- ing obscures the trimming area. Once the infected horny part is trimmed, the infection is easily killed by ordinary disinfectants."
If a claw must be removed, see your veterinarian, for this operation demands his skill and equipment. Also, he can help with problems of setting up a suitable foot bath.
Animals that do not respond after being treated twice will become carriers and. should be sent to market, Dr. Eagelman said.
Although foot rot seldom causes death, it does cut down tre- mendously on production and weight gain.
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Winning Vo-Ag Judging Teams Announced
URBANA — Polo high school topped all other Illinois poultry judging teams in the annual state judging contest held last week at the University of Illinois, officials announced this week.
The Polo team was coached by Keith McGuire, the local voca- tional agriculture teacher. Team members included Bill Boddiger, Ted Stahler, and Robert Venhuizen. Fairview high school coached by C. L. Harn won the grain judging contest.
The top ten schools in dairy judging will be given an oppor- tunity to compete for honors in the final contest at the Illinois State Fair. These schools are: Armstrong, Dixon, Durand, Kewanee, McLean, Nokomis, Normal, Oblong, Petersburg, and Toulon.
The best livestock judging team will also be selected at the
State Fair from the following finalists; Champaign, Clinton, Edinburg,
Findlay, Greenview, Leland, Mt. Sterling, Orion, Taylorville, and
Wyoming .
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Researchers Check July 4th Corn Height
URBANA — How high corn is by the 4th of July has been the subject of lengthy study at the University of Illinois.
The corn on the University's Morrow Plots is not as high as last year's, reports U. of I. agronomist A. L. Lang. And, this repre- sents the corn picture over the state at this time. Also, Lang says that he has noticed a number of corn fields with rained out spots.
On every July 4th since 1936, corn height on the famous Morrow Plots has been measured by either Lang or the late G. H. Dungan.
Lang reflects that the corn on the Morrow Plots was highest on this date in 1939, when it averaged 95.6 inches on a plot in a legume rotation. It was lowest in 1957, when the plants on a continuous-corn, no-treatment plot averaged 24 inches, dangerously close to a mere knee height.
In looking back over 25 years of data, Lang concludes that
height of corn on the 4th of July signifies nothing — it has practically
no bearing on final yields. About the only thing it influences is the
behavior of some people.
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Apple Scab, Cherry Leaf Spot Widespread Across State
URBANA — A University of Illinois fruit crops specialist re- ports that apple scab and cherry leaf spot have struck many Illinois commercial and home orchards this spring.
Frank Owen explains that these two fungus diseases thrive in the cool, moist weather which the state has experienced.
Light brown or olive-colored spots on the leaves are the first signs of apple scab disease on apple trees. The foliage gradually turns yellow and drops off, weakening the tree.
Owen recommends giving infected trees a dose of fertilizer to initiate second growth and to help the tree regain its vigor. Use, if possible, a complete fertilizer in liquid form. When the first new leaves appear, begin spraying the tree at least every 7 to 10 days and continue until the infection is under control. If trees are only par- tially infected, spraying immediately will prevent the disease from spreading to uninfected foliage and fruit.
To make a spray, use one of the following materials in three
gallons of water: (1) two tablespoons of ferbam, 70 percent wettable
powder, or (2) two tablespoons of captan, 50 percent wettable powder.
The most common symptom of cherry leaf spot on cherry trees is a yellowing of infected leaves. Tiny purple spots also appear on the leaves. Leaves eventually fall off by midsummer, lowering the tree's vigor and possibly killing it.
Fortunately, cherry leaf spot is easily controlled with the proper fungicide. Use one of the following in every three gallons of water: (1) two tablespoons of captan, (2) two tablespoons of glyodin, (3) actidione — check label for amount, or (4) two tablespoons of ferbam. Spray at weekly intervals as long as new growth appears.
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Veterinarian Develops
Test For Diagnosing Vibriosis
URBANA — A test for diagnosing vibriosis, an infectious disease of the genital tract of cattle and sheep, has been developed at the Uni- versity of Illinois, Dr. M. Ristic announced today.
Dr. Ristic, pathologist at the University's College of Veteri- nary Medicine, said the gel-diffusion test for vibriosis is being used on an experimental basis in the University's Diagnostic Laboratory.
The test, according to Dr. Ristic, requires placing blood samples of serum from cattle or sheep on a special jelly-like substance. The gelatin contains a drop of soluble material produced by Vibrio fetus, the bacterium which causes vibriosis.
When this soluble material contacts antibodies found in serum of infected animals, a reaction takes place which is visible to the naked eye. The reaction or white line does not appear if the animal is free of vibriosis.
Before Dr. Ristic' s test could be developed, he had to learn the chemical and physical make-up of the organism causing vibriosis. He discovered that these microscopic invaders contain a soluble material called polysaccharide. He then isolated the material for use in the gel-diffusion test.
"Although we discovered that Vibrio fetus can form four dif- ferent types of colonies, we only use one colony type for our test, M Dr. Ristic said. "Physical and chemical make-up of the colonies differ and this could change the results of the test."
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Since no vaccination or prophylactic measure has been devel- oped for vibriosis, Dr. Ristic advises livestock owners to use bulls that have been examined and found healthy by a veterinarian. Semen for artificial insemination may be obtained from healthy bulls if the herd bull is diseased.
Vibriosis, characterized by delayed conception and abortion, can be transmitted several ways. According to Dr. Ristic, cattle trans- mit it through coitus, sheep through contaminated feed. Although people can become infected, the means of transmission is unknown.
Dr. Ristic gave this report to veterinarians attending the
short course on reproductive diseases of cattle. The three day short
course began July 5 at the U. of I. College of Veterinary Medicine.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Economist Lists General Guides On Soybean Price Patterns
URBANA — Farmers or anyone else seldom have the detailed knowl- edge to predict all the changes in soybean prices, a University of Illinois agricultural economist points out in a new publication just released.
T. A. Hieronymus points out that the factors affecting soy- bean prices are very complex and it is difficult to set up definite rules about seasonal soybean price patterns. He does list these general observations, however, based on a study of soybean price movements since World War II:
It is difficult to overestimate the demand expansion rate for soybeans. Substantially more can be used each year at a constant price. Exports and domestic use have shown remarkable expansion in the last 10 years.
When the soybean crop is short, the price usually peaks early in the marketing year following harvest.
Oil prices are sensitive to the world supply and demand and tend to move in long cycles. Other things being equal, soybean prices move in the direction of oil prices.
Meal prices are sensitive to changes in livestock numbers, particularly hogs. Farmers have profited from holding soybeans when an increase in the spring pig crop is anticipated.
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Meal consumption responds to price. High prices in the fall and winter often result in a falling price in the spring and summer. Low fall and. winter prices may also be followed by rising prices in spring and summer.
Soybean prices respond to the general inflation-deflation conditions and move in the general trend with other commodity prices.
Speculative activity in both cash and futures markets by farmers and others is very important in determining the seasonal pattern of prices, Hieronymus points out. There is a tendency to put the price either too high or too low at harvest and remember only last year. This produces an every other year trend to soybean holding. So the most profitable procedure might well be to do what would have been unprofit- able the year before, he concludes.
These guides are published as part of Circular 833, "When to Sell Corn, Soybeans, Oats, and Wheat." Copies may be obtained from any county farm adviser or the University of Illinois College of Agricul- ture, at Urban a.
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Committee Begins Hog Cholera Eradication Program
URBANA — The formation of the Illinois Hog Cholera Eradication Committee has stirred up much interest among various segments of the swine industry, Dr. P. H. Kramer told state and federal veterinarians attending the conference on "Recent Advances in Animal Disease Control." The two-day conference, organized by University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine, began today at Allerton Park in Monticello.
"The industry is ahead of our regulatory agencies at this time. This is a healthy sign," Dr. Kramer, assistant inspector of the Illinois Animal Disease Eradication Division, said. "Progress made in an eradication program is directly proportional to the degree of inter- est, cooperation and assistance of the industry's leadership."
With the aid of representatives of farm organizations, the
swine industry, veterinary associations, the U. of I., and State-Federal
regulatory agencies, the Hog Cholera Eradication Committee recently
appointed three sub-committees. The sub-committees are: Legislative, W. B. Peterson of the Illinois Agriculture Association, chairman; Re- search, Dr. J. D. Ray of the Affiliated Laboratories, chairman? Educa- tion, Dr. J. R. Pickard, extension veterinarian of the U. of I. College of Veterinary Medicine, chairman.
Dr. Kramer reports that the Eradication Committee prepared a resolution urging the passage of legislation for a national hog cholera eradication program. The committee feels this program would, save hog producers millions of dollars annually by reducing the disease. Also, exportation of pork would increase since we would then be able to meet health requirements of importing foreign countries.
To eradicate hog cholera in Illinois, the committee plans to work with the National Hog Cholera Committee and enlist the aid of veterinarians in making reports. They hope to develop a diagnostic test, improve vaccines and do more detailed studies of the hog cholera
virus.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCES
Urbana, Illinois
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. Of I. Hosts Farm Research Conference
URBANA — About 400 farm cooperative representatives from across the nation will gather at the University of Illinois, July 12-14 to hear research scientists report the latest developments in feeds, fertilizers, seeds, chemicals and petroleum product use.
This will be the 13th annual research conference of the Ameri- can Farm Research Association, a research organization jointly sponsored, financed and managed by the American Farm Bureau Federation and a num- ber of state-wide cooperative farm supply companies.
The conference opens Wednesday afternoon on the general theme, "Manpower for Agriculture." Dean Louis B. Howard of the College of Agriculture will moderate a panel comprised of Associate Dean Karl Gardner; 0. B. Ross, head of the department of animal science? and Warren K. Wessels, assistant to the dean.
During the three day conference in the Illini Union Building, special sessions on feed, fertilizer, petroleum, seed and farm chemicals as well as general sessions are scheduled. Agricultural research workers from the University of Illinois, other state agricultural ex- periment stations and cooperative organizations will speak. Special programs are also planned for the ladies attending.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Record Number Of 4-H'ers
Compete In State Judging Contest
URBANA — A record 944 4-H'ers from 85 Illinois counties took part in the State 4-H Judging Contest at the University of Illinois July 6. They judged in dairy, poultry, livestock and. vegetable divi- sions— trying for "A" ratings in both individual and county team com- petition.
County team "A" ratings in dairy judging went to Crawford, Henry, LaSalle, Lee, McLean, Macon, Montgomery, Moultrie, Ogle, Peoria, Sangamon, Stark, Tazewell and Winnebago counties.
Counties receiving "A" ratings in livestock judging were Bureau, Champaign, Coles, DeWitt, Henry, Knox, LaSalle, Mason, Mercer, Morgan, Moultrie, Peoria, Piatt, Richland, Shelby and Warren.
Four counties, Shelby, Henry, McHenry and Livingston, took "A" ratings in poultry. Sangamon and Will county teams nailed down "A" ratings in vegetable judging.
The state contest was a stepping-stone to national contests to be held, later this year. Individuals who earned "A" ratings will now enter special invitational contests to compete for a berth on Illinois teams in national competition.
Next stop for the "AM-rated dairy and livestock judging con- testants is an invitational contest at the Illinois State Fair in
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Springfield. At that time four 4-H'ers from each team will be selected to represent Illinois in national competition.
The dairy team will compete in the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest in Waterloo, Iowa, Oct. 2. Livestock winners will represent Illinois in the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest on Nov. 24 at the International Livestock Exposition in Chicago.
After special invitational contests, poultry winners will compete in a national contest in Chicago Nov. 26, and vegetable winners will judge at the 26th Annual Convention of the National Junior Vege- tab3.e Growers of America in Detroit, Michigan, Dec. 6.
In the state contest, ribbons were awarded to individuals placing in Classes "A" and MB." Medals will be awarded to members tak- ing part in national contests later this year.
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UI Engineers Study Tractor Air Cleaners
URBANA — University of Illinois agricultural engineers are working with air cleaner companies to develop improved types of dry air cleaners that may eventually be standard equipment on farm tractors, a U. of I. engineer reported today.
Speaking before the American Farm Research Association meeting at the University of Illinois, engineer J. A. Weber said the air cleaner work resulted from tests which showed that many tractors could not pro- duce full power because oil bath cleaners became clogged with dirt and chaff.
Weber said that because dry cleaners are used on automobiles and are easy to service, they looked like a good replacement for the messy oil bath cleaners.
However, research with dry cleaners on 28 tractors proved that most of the automobile types were just not good enough for farm tractor work.
Weber reported that more rugged and efficient dry cleaners are now being used successfully on large crawler tractors. However, these cleaners are too large and costly for normal farm tractor use.
U. of I. engineers and air cleaner companies hope to develop a tractor air cleaner that fits somewhere between the light-duty type and the rugged type.
Weber said that tractor valve trouble also is under study. Nine 125-hour laboratory engine tests have been made to point out things
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mechanics might do during a valve overhaul that could cause intake valve failure.
The present U. of I. tractor tests are a result of a survey made in 1955 in which tractors were inspected for good or poor mainte- nance practices. This study showed that improper valve adjustment, dirty crankcase breathers and air cleaners, low tire pressure and pitted ignition points are among the most common examples of poor tractor main- tenance on Illinois farms.
Weber said the Illinois Farm Supply Company, sponsor of the
tractor maintenance study, has recently renewed the project for another
three-year period.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wheat Export Program Unfair To Soft Wheat Growers
URBANA — The government wheat export program is causing lower prices for Illinois soft wheat than for hard wheat, a University of Illinois agricultural economist pointed out this week.
L. F. Stice said that the present government programs are contradictory in the treatment of midwest wheats. Hard and soft wheats are treated alike in the acreage allotment and price support programs and in the subsidy payment on exports. But in the Public Law 480 export program for barter or foreign currencies, soft red winter and hard red winter wheat are treated as separate commodities.
Illinois hard wheat growers are now receiving about 10 cents a bushel more than soft wheat growers in central and southern Illinois markets. Yet Illinois soft wheat produces high-quality cake and pastry flours. Illinois hard wheat produces inferior bread flour compared with the hard wheats produced in the great plains areas of Kansas and Okla- homa.
Supplies would also suggest that soft red wheat should bring a higher price. There is no surplus of soft red winter wheat. On June 30 only about 13 million bushels remained from last year's crop, less than a month's supply. At the same time the hard wheat stockpile was about 1,118 million bushels, a 19-month supply at the high rate of use during the past year.
If supplies and use of both soft and hard wheat were in
balance with unrestricted production, soft wheat prices would tend to be equal to or above those of hard wheat in Illinois, Stice believes.
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Also, if both were treated alike under the Public Law 480 export program, Illinois soft wheat would sell for as much as or more than hard wheat. Because Public Law 480 restricts exports to surplus agricultural commodities, the USDA restricts soft red winter wheat ex- ports under this program.
The lower soft wheat price reduces income of soft wheat growers and encourages them to shift to hard wheat, even though the supply is in surplus and hard wheat is a lower quality product in Illi- nois.
To remedy this situation, Stice suggests several choices: (1) the government could authorize more exports of soft wheat so that soft and hard wheat prices would be equal? (2) farmers could put more soft wheat under the support loan to force soft wheat prices up at har- vest; (3) farmers could shift to hard, wheat production.
The simplest and least damaging alternative is to increase the
export allocations of soft wheat, Stice concludes.
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY A.M., JULY 14, 1961
New Designs For Future Corn
URBANA — You may not recognize the future corn, D. E. Alexander, University of Illinois corn breeding specialist, told members of the American Farm Research Association meeting here today.
Alexander cautioned that he was talking about ideas still on the drawing boards and some others that haven't reached even that stage.
Years of research went into today's hybrids. Alexander empha- sized that many of the changes he was suggesting might also take many
years.
Here are some new hybrids farmers can expect to grow in their
fields within 15 or 20 years, according to Alexander:
Hi-Density Hybrids; These new types, with as many as 24,000
plants per acre, outyield ordinary corn when there is plenty of water
and high fertility. They resist damage at high populations. Under
average conditions, researchers get yields equaling those produced by
ordinary corn at the usual stand of 16,000 plants per acre.
High- Oil Hybrids; High-oil versions of modern hybrids are
being tested throughout the state. Oil is 2 1/4 times as high in energy
as starch is. A high-energy feed can mean more livestock gain produced
from each bushel of corn. If high-oil corn passes this season's tests,
scientists will produce hybrids that yield 7 to 8 percent oil and have
the desirable traits of today's hybrids.
Corn-Teosinte Hybrids; Corn breeders call the result of an
intercross of corn with a wild relative, teosinte, a corn-teosinte
hybrid. Some combinations are multiple-eared. While the ear is
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smaller than that of ordinary corn, corn-teosinte ears may contain more protein. Also, this cross seems more drought resistant.
Stover for Cattle Feedr Corn stover may be the main reason for more corn belt breeding herds. The nutritive value of one acre of corn stover, yielding about 100 bushels, is enough to feed one cow unit for one year. It seems likely that machinery to cut and chop stover and separate the corn kernels will soon be designed for the corn belt.
Here are some of Alexander ' s long-range thoughts about the corn we're likely to grow in the distant future:
Pure-Breeding Hybrids? There is a distant promise that some corn will show little loss of vigor if seed is saved from farmers' fields. The new hybrids are tetraploid instead of the diploid types we grow today. That is to say, the new plants have 40 chromosomes instead of the usual 20. Chromosomes carry genes that determine the character- istics of a variety.
Ultimately, Alexander believes, pure-breeding hybrids will be
produced. However, he notes that as yet researchers have not produced
corn hybrids with 40 chromosomes that equal traditional corn's agronomic value.
New Species; By putting viruses to work, corn breeders may
find that they have an entirely new breeding tool. Plant and. animal
cells are capable of acquiring genetic material by a kind of "infection"
quite separate from the normal sexual process.
This kind of breeding work may some day lead to entirely new
species. For example, scientists may create a corn and sorghum hybrid. This species would combine the advantages of sorghum and corn.
Of course, Alexander said, these are just two of what you might call a corn breeder's pipe dreams. But the possibilities are there, and we may find great changes in the future corn belt crops.
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Illinois Establishes Hog Cholera Eradication Committee
URBANA — A University of Illinois livestock specialist reports that Illinois has formed a Hog Cholera Eradication Committee to speed up the elimination of this disease from the state.
Harry G. Russell adds that the committee will also support national programs to eliminate the disease. It has already sent a reso- lution supporting the hog cholera eradication legislation to U. S. con- gressmen sponsoring the bill.
Serving as committee chairman is George Brauer, oakford. He is president of the Illinois Swine Herd Improvement Association and a commercial hog producer.
Russell, secretary of the committee, reports that the commit- tee so far has formed three subcommittees: (1) legislative, (2) education and (3) research. These subcommittees have already met and mapped their plans of action.
Among their proposals are (1) to make hog cholera reportable through veterinarians on a voluntary basis, (2) to develop a diagnostic test for hog cholera and (3) to improve vaccines.
The committee will meet again in Springfield, on July 28 to
report on action already taken and to plan further action.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Only 10 Percent Of U. Of I. Ag Graduates Farming
URBANA — Only 10 percent of the June 1961 graduates from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture returned to the farm, reports Warren Wessels, assistant to the dean.
By far the largest number of graduates, 45 percent, are tak- ing graduate work or have entered the military service. Nine percent are working in agricultural industries as sales and service men, field- men and merchandisers.
Another 14 percent are working as vocational agriculture teachers or assistant farm advisers. Twelve percent have jobs with the U. S. Forest Service, U.S.D.A., Illinois Division of Highways, U. of I., Illinois Crop Improvement Association and New York Conservation Depart- ment.
As of June 20, only 10 percent of the graduating class were undecided about jobs.
What about salaries for the June graduates? They ranged from $4,350 to $6,480, averaging $5,200.
Wessels stresses the fact that many job opportunities await the agricultural college graduate. But unfortunately too many gradu- ates do not seriously consider employment until graduation nears. Then they may become panicky and grab the first job offer. This is unfor- tunate for both the student and the employer.
Many graduates do not "sell" themselves either. Any job- saeker must have intelligence, enthusiasm, a neat appearance, sincerity and a firm handshake.
Wessels points out that many jobs in the agricultural indus- tries are not filled because students do not acquaint themselves with opportunities in the business phases of agriculture.
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UI Tests New Fiberboard Crib Liner
URBANA — University of Illinois agricultural engineers are testing a new moisture-proof, airtight liner material that shows prom- ise for safe high-moisture corn storage in existing corn cribs and bins.
The new liner is a heavy, waterproof fiberboard coated on each side with a layer of polyethylene film and aluminum foil. Re- searchers say the material is easy to cut, crease or bend to fit the interior of any crib or bin. It is held in place with nails, screws or bolts.
U. of I. researchers began testing the new fiberboard lining material in January when they lined a steel bin and two small bins in a converted, ear corn crib. The corn contained 20% percent moisture when the tests began.
Samples from the bins during the following five months showed, no appreciable change in moisture content. However, a fermentation odor developed and some mold appeared on broken and cracked kernels.
Researchers say they expected molds to develop because of the corn's low moisture content. After five months, however, the corn had not lost its value as a feed grain.
U. of I. engineers plan further tests with 25 to 30 percent
moisture corn to check the effectiveness of the lining material over a
wider range of moisture conditions and for longer periods in storage.
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Nurserymen's Association To Meet August 1-3
URBANA — Members of the Illinois State nurserymen's Associa- tion will gather August 1-3 at the Morton Arboretum, Lisle, for their annual meeting.
If the advance program is any indication, it should be one of the best programs ever, says Harleigh Kemmerer, University of Illi- nois landscape specialist and secretary of the association.
The Tuesday morning session features a tour of the Arboretum, In the afternoon, members will hear the latest developments in land- scape design. Wednesday the group will tour several nurseries. And on Thursday the group will breakfast at the International Harvester plant and then visit several more area nurseries.
Kemmerer reports that complete programs are also planned for
wives and children.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Foreign Livestock Diseases Threaten U. S. - Dr. Meyer
URBANA — Because we live in the jet age, livestock diseases that were once limited to Africa and other faraway countries are now a potential threat to American livestock, Dr. N. L. Meyer told veteri- narians attending a conference on Recent Advances in Animal Disease Con- trol.
Dr. Meyer, Chief staff officer for Emergency Diseases in the Animal Disease Eradication Division's Washington office, spoke at the conference held last week (July 11-12) at the University of Illinois.
The chance of new livestock diseases being introduced into the U. S. is increasing because Americans are doing more world traveling and importing, Dr. Meyer said. Such diseases as African horsesickness, African swine fever, lumpy skin disease and Rift Valley fever could cripple our livestock industry.
"Once the diseases are introduced," Dr. Meyer said, "they could spread so rapidly that usual control measures, such as inspection, quarantine, immunization, disinfection and even radical slaughter pro- grams, would be unsuccessful."
As an example of the destruction these diseases cause. Dr. Meyer described African swine fever.
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"In many parts of Africa there are now swine, " he said. "But swine production is nearly impossible because of the high incidence of African swine fever.
The disease, which is nearly 100 percent fatal, has symptoms resembling those of hog cholera. But, unlike hog cholera, no vaccine has been developed for it.
African swine fever recently invaded Spain and Portugal, where over 100,000 head of swine were lost, partly because veterinarians first diagnosed the disease as hog cholera. "I shudder to think what this disease could do in the U. S.," Dr. Meyer said.
African horsesickness, which kills 90 percent of its victims, was another example. When this disease hit 10 mid-east and Mediterra- nean countries, it spread with such dramatic force that veterinary pub- lications all over the world reported it.
An epidemic of African horsesickness among U. S. horses valued at 500 million dollars would cause great economic losses, Dr. Meyer told the veterinarians.
These diseases, along with lumpy skin disease, bluetongue. Rift Valley fever and Rinderpest, used to be isolated in comparatively small areas, but are now invading neighboring countries. With increased exportation of domestic livestock and zoo animals, the diseases could, if introduced into the U. S., spread rapidly, as we have many of the
vectors necessary for this transmission.
Once in the U. S., the diseases would spread like wildfire be- cause our livestock population is susceptible. Warned Dr. Meyer, "Vet- erinarians can no longer regard these diseases as exotic African or Asian curiosities of purely academic interest. They must familiarize themselves with these diseases if they are to properly carry out their professional responsibilities."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Associate Dean Outlines Reasons Why Rural Youth Are Not Attending College
URBANA — Karl E. Gardner, associate dean of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, points to three reasons why rural youth are lagging behind urban youth in attending college.
These reasons are (1) lack of recruitment in agriculture, (2) inadequate counseling services and (3) rising college costs and stationary farm incomes.
Gardner explains that colleges of agriculture have stepped up their recruitment programs during the past several years. But agricul- ture has a long way to go in matching recruiting efforts in engineering, science, commerce and other fields. Furthermore, industry aids recruit- ment in these other fields through eye-catching ads, radio and tele- vision programs.
Regarding high school counseling, Gardner says that few counselors have sufficient knowledge of the opportunities in agricul- ture. Therefore, they encourage students to study medicine, engineer- ing, law, chemistry and other "prestige" fields.
Some small rural high schools, unfortunately, do not prepare students properly for college studies. Poor training in grammar and mathematics gives the rural graduate a disadvantage. Too, rural gradu- ates often fear the large size and academic requirements of most uni- versities.
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Gardner urges parents and school board members to take an interest in the caliber and quality of their local schools and help prepare and encourage graduates to attend college.
Like everything else, costs of attending college are rising rapidly. But Gardner firmly believes that a youngster who wants a col- lege education can get it if he's willing to work.
Most universities and university towns have ample job oppor- tunities for ambitious students. By disciplining himself to study in his free time, the working student shouldn't have serious trouble in maintaining a satisfactory grade-point average.
Many scholarships are also available for deserving students. Although the value of the scholarships has not kept pace with rising costs, they certainly help to ease a student's financial situation.
Gardner discussed these views at the American Farm Research
Association meeting on the U. of I. campus last week.
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Officials Guarding Against Foreign Diseases Entering U. S. Via Seaway
URBANA~-United States and Canadian officials are rigidly en- forcing shipping regulations to prevent foreign livestock diseases from penetrating North America via the St. Lawrence Seaway, Dr. E. E. Moon told veterinarians attending the Conference on Recent Advances in Ani- mal Disease Control.
Dr. Moon represented the Animal Inspection and Quarantine di- vision (AIQ) of the Chicago Stock Yards. The conference was held at the University of Illinois last week (July 11 and 12) .
"Port inspection is the first line of defense against foreign disease, " he told the conference. Because Chicago, Milwaukee and other Great Lake cities are not ports of entry for foreign animals, inspectors examine all animal byproducts. Untanned hides, wool, glue stock, horns, straw, hay, meat from certain countries or any other animal byproduct may be contaminated with infective organisms. Therefore, inspectors turn all byproducts over to AIQ for examination. No contaminated prod- uct is released.
Another part of the fight against foreign diseases deals with food and garbage aboard foreign vessels. Garbage is removed, at Montreal After ships enter the Seaway, it can only be disposed of at port incin- erators. Meats that are restricted are placed under Canadian seals. Inspectors at U. S. ports periodically check the Canadian seals, which must not be broken until the vessel returns to Montreal on its outgoing
trip.
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U. S. officials are concerned, about the St. Lawrence Seaway because the country's principal agricultural area could be hit overnight At least 17 states — those bordering the Seaway and those whose commerce flows through lake ports — are affected by the St. Lawrence Seaway, Dr. Moon stated.
Animal diseases are not the only concern of regulatory offi- cials. The introduction of certain foreign insect pests could cause devastating damage to our crops. Dr. Moon said.
The Plant Quarantine Division is most interested in the khapra beetle, whose larvae can live as long as three years without food. When the beetle attacks whole grain or cereal products, losses range from 2 to 73 percent. In emphasizing the real danger of these insect pests, Dr. Moon said Chicago inspectors have already spotted this beetle in holds of foreign vessels.
Because increased use of the Seaway also increases the chances of introducing new insects and livestock diseases, Dr. Moon urged veter- inarians to be on guard and report any suspicious livestock diseases to proper officials.
"The St. Lawrence Seaway is of great economic importance to
Illinois and some 16 other states, " Dr. Moon concluded, "but we must all
be aware that foreign shipments do pose a constant threat from foreign
animal diseases, insect pests and human diseases."
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School Milk Program Promotes Good Health, Study Shows
URBANA — Milk consumption in Illinois schools has more than doubled in the past seven years since the Special School Milk Program started, a University of Illinois study shows.
In a report just published, Robert E. Jacobson and R. W. Bartlett point out that in 1953-54 the state average for milk consumed in schools was 12.3 quarts per student per year. After five years under the Special Milk Program, the state average consumption per student has risen to 30.3 quarts.
The report also shows differences in consumption among schools. Schools with fewer than 125 students had a higher average than the larger ones. Consumption per student was highest in schools par- ticipating in both the Special Milk Program and the National School Lunch Program.
When students were charged from one to three cents for each half-pint of milk, there were no outstanding differences in consumption. But if the school milk program were not operating, students would fre- quently have to pay as much as 10 cents per half-pint and school milk consumption would likely suffer a major decrease, the report concludes.
The detailed report has been published as Circular 831, The
School Milk Program in Illinois. Copies may be obtained from the office
of any county farm adviser or directly from the College of Agriculture
at Urban a.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
sllVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farm Real Estate Taxes Hit New High
URBANA — Illinois farm land owners paid a new record amount in real estate taxes in 1960, a University of Illinois professor of agri- cultural law reported this week.
According to N. G. P. Krausz, the total farm real estate tax bill was $123.1 million, 3.7 percent above 1959 and nearly double the 1950 figure. Illinois farm land owners pay the second highest land tax bill in the United States. Only California land owners pay more.
On the basis of preliminary estimates, Krausz figures that land taxes took 17 percent of the net farm income.
The average 1960 Illinois land tax levy of $4.07 per acre was the highest of the corn-belt states. The average levy for all other corn-belt states was $2.18. The U. S. average was $1.20. Only four northeastern states had a higher per acre levy than Illinois.
High value of Illinois farmland does not account for our higher taxes, Krausz points out. When taxes are computed on the basis of $100 full value, the Illinois tax remains the highest in the corn* belt and far above the U. S. average.
Besides the real estate tax, Illinois farmers paid an esti- mated $22 million in personal property taxes in 1960. Adding personal and realty taxes together makes the per acre tax $4.80. This average is very high considering that on some poor land in the state taxes are be- low $1.00 per acre.
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Public schools receive the largest portion of real estate and property tax revenues, Krausz reports. Rising school enrollment con- tinues to create demands for new schools, additional staff and larger operating costs. Spending for roads and welfare, however, is also in- creasing.
More increases in real property taxes can be expected as long as the Illinois tax structure remains basically the same, Krausz be- lieves. There has been a leveling-off trend, however, in the past two years. In 1959 and. 1960, the percentage increase was not so large in Illinois as in neighboring states.
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Illinois Turfgrass Field Day Set
URBANA — The second annual Illinois Turfgrass Field Day will be held at the University of Illinois Thursday, July 27.
Visitors will compare new lawn development where organic, inorganic and urea-form fertilizers were used. Also on display will be plots showing the effectiveness of pre-emergence crabgrass chemicals. These chemicals were applied at different rates and times.
Fungicide studies at the University will also be on view for those attending the Turfgrass Field Day, according to U. of I. horticul- turist Harleigh Kemmerer.
The program starts about 10 a.m. with a tour of local golf courses, turf research plots on the horticulture farms and the campus lawns.
Visitors will register at the floriculture building that
morning. They may also visit the U. of I. trial gardens. About 1,280
annual and bedding plant varieties are displayed there.
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Read, Guither Recognized By Editors' Association
URBANA — Two members of the U. of I. College of Agriculture's editorial staff were recognized today by the American Association of Agricultural College Editors at the association's annual meeting in Washington, D. C.
Extension editor Hadley Read was formally installed, as presi- dent of the national organization for the coming year, and Harold Guither, assistant extension editor, received the AAACE Professional Improvement Award sponsored by the National Plant Food Institute.
Read, head of the college's editorial staff since 1947, served as president-elect of the association during the past year. As presi- dent, he will represent nearly 500 agricultural college, USDA and busi- ness editors who are members of the association. He will also have primary administrative responsibility for 15 association committees that carry on action programs in the areas of communications research, training, media services and professional improvement.
Guither, a member of the editorial staff since 1956, received the AAACE Professional Improvement Award for outstanding professional contributions to the agricultural communications field during the past two years. The award includes a $500 grant for professional study and travel. Guither was nominated for this award by his associates in the editorial office.
A graduate of the University of Illinois in 1949, Guither served as managing editor for the Doane Agricultural Service in St. Louis from 1950 to 1956. He grew up in Bureau county and graduated from the Walnut High School. He is currently serving as coordinator of the media services division of the editorial office.
AAACE was first organized, on the University of Illinois cam- pus 45 years ago and recently established national headquarters on the campus of Michigan State University.
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FOR RELEASE DURING FARM SAFETY WEEK, JULY 23-29, 1961
"Other Fellow" Theory Major Roadblock To Farm Safety
URBANA — This is National Farm Safety Week — a week set aside to focus attention on the needless accidents that kill and injure thou- sands of farm people each year.
In the entire nation, someone dies in a farm-work mishap every 45 minutes. One person is injured every 23 seconds.
Shocking as these figures are, they don't seem to impress the average farmer or his family, explains 0. L. Hogsett, University of Illinois safety specialist.
Few people can visualize themselves as potential accident statistics. The attitude that "accidents happen to the other fellow" is still a major roadblock to safety on the farm.
Yet the thousands of farm families who suffered the personal and financial blow of a farm accident last year now are quick to admit that the "other fellow" theory doesn't always work out.
The Illinois Rural Safety Council estimates that, unless extra precautions are taken, accidents will cause 15,000 fatalities and. 1,250,000 disabling injuries before the next Farm Safety Week rolls around.
If you think these accidents will happen to "the other fellow," remember this: To your neighbor, you are the "other fellow." An acci- dent can happen to anyone who invites it by taking a chance.
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INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Top Hog Men Reveal Ingredients For Success
URBANA — Thirty top hog producers in Ford, Livingston, Tazewell and Woodford counties have listed their feeding and management practices which spelled the difference between an average income and a high income.
These men cooperated in a survey by Howard Robinson, fieldman with the Pioneer Farm Bureau Farm Management Association. They were se- lected because they were in the high income bracket for the 1960 FBFM record year.
One question was: What details of the hog business make the biggest difference between high profits and average income? Here are the three answers given most frequently: (1) maintain high average litter size, (2) hand-feed the breeding herd and (3) buy boars with production records.
Regarding farrowing of litters, 12 farmers said they farrowed four times a year, 11 farrowed twice a year, three farrowed six times a year, two farrowed every month and one farrowed five times a year.
Here are the feeding programs, from weaning age to market weight, used most widely by the farmers: (1) feed shelled corn and a supplement free choice, (2) feed a complete ground ration free choice and (3) use ground rations part of the time and corn and supplement free choice.
The farmers were also asked to indicate the management prac- tices they followed in 1960. Here are the practices listed most fre- quently: (1) vaccinated pigs for cholera, (2) wormed the pig crop,
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(3) injected iron into baby pigs, (4) castrated boar pigs under four
weeks of age, (5) marked litters for selecting gilts and (6) vaccinated
pigs and sows for erysipelas.
The Pioneer Farm Bureau Farm Management Association is one of
ten in Illinois cooperating with the University of Illinois in analyzing
farm business records. Thirty- three fieldmen served over 5,600 farmers
in 1960.
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PAC:dl 7/24/61
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U. of I. Features Giant Forestry Model at State Fair
URBANA — For a grandiose view of lumberjack and sawmill country or an insight into the paper, furniture or retail lumber industries, Illi- nois citizens have only to visit the University of Illinois exhibit area at the Illinois State Fair in August.
The U. of I. forestry exhibit features a scale model that tells the story of lumber from its beginning in timber country to its ultimate place in the hands of the American consumer.
U. of I. foresters built the giant model — it measures 4 by 16 feet — to illustrate graphically the numerous careers available to young people interested in forestry.
Forester Irving Holland points out that another major purpose of the exhibit is uto show the public that there is a lot more to for- estry than sitting in a lookout tower watching for fires."
Anyone who sees the model has to admit that it serves its pur- pose. The exhibit is sprinkled with 1,000 miniature trees and features two saw mills? a recreation area with tents, picnic tables and campers? a ranger tower? power lines? and a watershed area complete with minia- ture lake, dam and rampaging river.
To show the utilization phase of the forestry industry, the model features a pulp and. paper plant, a furniture factory, a retail lumber yard, and a wood products research installation that boasts its own research plantation, laboratories and greenhouse.
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All of these are tied together with an intricate network of roads, streams and bridges. The model also contains a miniature farm- stead with windbreaks, cattle, sheep and orchards.
And, to add a final touch of realism, the model depicts a des- olate area that has suffered the ravages of a forest fire.
Holland says nearly every member of the U. of I. forestry de- partment contributed to the exhibit, which took more than two months of spare-time work to build. To make the most of their effort, the spe- cialists made two large cases for the model so that it can be put on exhibition in any part of the state.
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U. of I. Changes Date of Cattle Feeders Day
URBANA — Those of you looking forward to attending the Univer- sity of Illinois Cattle Feeders Day this fall will have to wait a little longer.
University officials announce that the date has been changed from September to April 13, 1962. Why? To allow research men to com- plete studies that will shed more light on the vitamin A-deficiency problem.
Watch this paper for more details next spring.
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PACrdl 7/24/61
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE
Mechanized "Stomach" Helps UI Dairy Researchers Test Cattle Feeds In The Laboratory
URBANA — For years dairy scientists have relied heavily on feeding research with live animals to work out dairy cow rations that give the maximum in feed efficiency and milk production.
This research with live animals still is opening doors to higher milk production on the farm. But, in the past few years, there has been a trend to take dairy research out of the barn and put more and more of it into the laboratory.
Work horse of the laboratory research tools is the artificial rumen — a mechanized stomach that comes amazingly close to duplicating typical feed digestion in a live cow.
The artificial rumen isn't a new research tool. The first one was developed by a farsighted dairy researcher in the late 1890s. But it wasn't until the 1940s that the full potential of the laboratory rumen came to light.
Today nearly every major dairy research laboratory in the country makes some use of an artificial rumen. And some of these amaz- ing machines come unbelievably close to simulating the real thing.
The artificial rumen at the University of Illinois is an ex- ample in point. U. of I. researchers feed ordinary concentrates and roughages into their laboratory rumen and come back 12 hours later to find the feed used up. In the meantime the mechanized rumen has out- lined a nearly complete account of what took place during the period of digestion.
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Although this sounds almost supernatural to the average lay- man, dairy researchers are quick to point out that the principle of the artificial rumen really isn't very complicated.
Its use stems from the fact that nearly all digestion in the cow is caused by action of rumen bacteria and protozoa on the feed cows eat.
These microbes or "bugs" which live in the cow's stomach, cause feeds to ferment, producing a variety of combustible organic acids. These are absorbed into the blood and become available to the tissues, where they are oxidized to produce energy.
In artificial rumen research, scientists take rumen fluid containing these "bugs" from a live cow, place it in the mechanical rumen along with dairy concentrates and roughage, and periodically add an artificial saliva-water solution.
The bugs begin digesting the feed. Natural diffusion rids the rumen of gases and other waste products created by digestion. An escape tube takes care of the remaining toxic gases. The result: nearly complete digestion of feed by the mechanical rumen.
The Uc of I. artificial rumen is actually six rumens incor- porated into one machine. This helps researchers run tests comparing six different feed ingredients or feeding conditions simultaneously.
At the end of each test, the digestion process of each rumen is compared with the other five.
The Illinois artificial rumen is a complex of both complicated and not-so-complicated parts. Chief in the not-so-complicated category
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are the two ordinary windshield wiper motors connected to the bottles containing the feed and rumen fluid.
The motors gently swish the bottles back and forth in a hot water bath kept at 100° F. — the rumen temperature of a live cow — to simulate natural movement inside the cow rumen during feed digestion.
A row of bottles containing an artificial saliva and water mixture along the back of the machine periodically mix saliva in with the feed being digested — another important step in simulating actual conditions in the cow.
Past research discoveries with the artificial rumen dramati- cally point up its value to the dairy industry.
Most mechanized rumen research has centered around the role rumen microorganisms play in cellulose digestion — a digestive process held nearly exclusively to ruminants and, oddly enough, to termites.
The artificial rumen also has helped researchers compare the nutritive value of different forages fed to dairy cows. And it has provided information on the influence of minerals on urea utilization by rumen microorganisms.
How close has the artificial rumen come to simulating condi- tions in the live rumen? Researchers say it's impossible to duplicate these conditions exactly. However, the fact that U. of I. scientists have been able to keep rumen "bugs" alive and reproducing for as long as ten days shows that they have come pretty close to the real thing.
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Predict Anaplasmosis Increase
URBANA — An increase in anaplasmosis among cattle during the late summer and early fall is predicted by Dr. M. E. Mansfield, Univer- sity of Illinois veterinarian at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station.
His prediction is based on the steady increase of the disease in southern Illinois during the past few years. The number of infected animals among Dixon Springs herds rose from one in 1950 to 43 in 1960.
Anaplasmosis is caused by organisms that attack and "kill" red blood cells. Infected animals run a fever for the first few days. Then they become weak and listless as a result of anemia.
These weak animals can be discovered by moving the herd, according to Dr. Mansfield, as they will lag behind or remain entirely to themselves, often hiding in bushy areas.
Their great weakness makes it necessary to keep feed and water
easily available. One Dixon Springs cow drowned, Dr. Mansfield said,
because she was not able to get out of a small stream where the animals
watered.
The first signs of the disease are followed by jaundice, loss
of appetite, depression, dehydration, labored breathing and. irrational behavior.
"Irrational behavior often takes the form of belligerence, and such animals are dangerous," Dr. Mansfield said. He stressed work- ing with them as quickly and quietly as possible, and perhaps adminis- tering a tranquilizer.
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Rate of infection runs high. Last year at Dixon Springs, 43 of 75 cows in the three herds, or 57 percent, were affected, and 11 of them, or 15 percent, died. The highest incidence was in August, Sep- tember and October.
Five of the 11 cattle that died were never seen to be sick, Dr. Mansfield said. The dead, found during routine observations, point to a "very important aspect of control — daily observation of the herd for sick animals."
Dr. Mansfield considers ticks and various species of flies and mosquitoes to be the most common carriers of the disease. "But it may also be transmitted accidentally through the use of contaminated surgical instruments, ear-marking and tattooing equipment, dehorning instruments, hypodermic needles and other equipment," Dr. Mansfield said. These instruments can easily transfer the disease from life-time carriers, the animals that recover from acute infections.
Although Dr. Mansfield predicts an increase in anaplasmosis,
he is not sure how much of the state will be affected. "This depends
on the availability of suitable vector flies or mosquitoes. Also, the
high horsefly population area is pretty well confined to the southern
part of the state, " he explained. "Outbreaks can be expected if carrier
animals are introduced into areas where anaplasmosis does not exist."
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. of I. Changes Date of Cattle Feeders Day
Those of you looking forward to attending the University of Illinois Cattle Feeders Day this fall will have to wait a little longer.
University officials announce that the date has been changed from September to April 13, 1962. Why? To allow research men to com- plete studies that will shed more light on the vitamin A-deficiency problem.
Watch this paper for more details next spring.
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PAC:dl 7/24/61
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FOR RELEASE WEEK OF JULY 31, 1961
Fertilizer And Proved Seeding Practices Produce Excellent Pastures
Research at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experi- ment Station proves the value of fertilizer and proved seeding practices in achieving top-producing pastures.
About ten years ago an upland tract on the station was a wil- derness of sassafras, persimmon, brush and weeds. Brush and trees had grown as big as a man's arm or leg. Many questioned the economic sound- ness of spending $40 to $50 an acre to clear, fertilize and seed this area.
Today, however, station agronomist George McKibben reports
that this former wilderness abounds with heavy clover, alfalfa and
grasses. It can produce 300 to 500 pounds of beef or lamb gains per
acre.
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HAC:HDG:dl 7/26/61
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FOR RELEASE WEEK OF JULY 31, 1961
Plan 4-H Dairy Judging Contest For State Fair
The Illinois State Fair will be a testing ground for 40 of Illinois* top 4-H dairy judges when they compete for a berth on the four-member Illinois team which will represent the state in national com- petition later this year.
The State Fair 4-H Judging Contest will be held Monday after- noon, August 14.
Forty 4-H'ers earned the right to compete in the State Fair Judging Contest by winning top honors in the State 4-H Judging Contest held at the University of Illinois in July. They are the survivors of an original group of more than 2,000 4-H'ers who have competed in dairy judging contests this year.
The four top dairy judges at the State Fair will compete in the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest on October 2 at the National Dairy Cattle Congress in Waterloo, Iowa.
Last year the Illinois team coached by University of Illinois dairy specialist Jerry Cash ranked second in the national contest and was the winning team at the International Livestock Exposition in Chi- cago.
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HDNsdl 7/26/61
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE
Foreign Countries Envy
U. S. Grain Storage Ability
URBANA — Although American taxpayers are rather sensitive about the large amounts of corn, wheat and other grains stored in this country, foreign agricultural officials are envious of the U. S.'s ability to safely store vast quantities of grains.
As a result, many countries send delegates to the U. S. to study its system of handling, storing and marketing grain crops. One such group is now visiting the University of Illinois College of Agri- culture, reports Assistant Dean R. W. Jugenheimer.
The group consists of leading farm officials from India, Israel, Brazil, Rhodesia-Nyasaland and Japan. They are learning as much as possible about how grain is handled in Illinois from the time of har- vesting through storage, including transportation, processing, marketing
and credit.
They'll use the knowledge they gain to help their countries
improve their systems of handling and storing grains. And in some coun- tries the problem is becoming serious. Take Japan, for example:
Japan's population is rising rapidly. Her people are showing
a dietary trend toward more animal protein and bread grains. This means more imports of bread and feed grains. Her farmers are producing more upland grain crops and rice. As a result, her traditional system of storing grain is outmoded and inefficient.
Japan therefore must rapidly expand her storage facilities and must decide whether expansion will follow the present traditional system, a modification of that system, or a new and modern storage system.
The Japanese officials now at the U. of I. hope to get ideas for solving this problem.
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PACrmfb 8/3/61
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Illinois Future Farmers Gain Support
URBANA — Contributions totaling $13,658 poured into the Illi- nois FFA Foundation last year from 857 business firms and individuals in support of the 15,011 Future Farmers of America in 471 Illinois high school chapters.
The Illinois Foundation of the Future Farmers of America is an organization designed to promote agricultural progress through recogni- tion of outstanding FFA members. The Foundation operates through two committees: a state sponsoring committee and a board of trustees.
Funds for leadership training and promotional activities are allocated by the board of trustees. Filmstrips and college short course scholarships are made available by the Foundation. Awards and plaques are given to top FFA students in the areas of dairy, beef, swine, sheep, poultry, corn, soybean and small grain production. Awards are also given in farm mechanics, farm electrification, soil and water manage- ment, farm beautification, farm safety and public speaking.
Herbert R. Damisch, Springfield, state FFA advisor, is presi- dent of the board of trustees. Jesse Keyser, Lawrenceville, is vice- president, and G. Donavon Coil, Springfield, executive secretary of the Illinois FFA, is secretary. Other members of the board are Clifford Lant, Moline, chairman of the state sponsoring committee? H. M. Hamlin, head teacher trainer, University of Illinois; Melvin Henderson, head of Vocational Agriculture Service, U. of I; and M. G. Van Buskirk, Chicago, the member selected from outside agricultural education. The following
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vocational agriculture teachers are on the board of trustees: Keith McGuire, Polo; Arthur Eicken, Carrollton; A. L. Schafer, Olney; Ralph Twenhafel, Waverly; Eldon Aupperle, Monmouth? Vance Ahlf, Armstrong; M. L. Boudreau, Clifton; Robert Howey, Sycamore; and James Guilinger, Williamsf ield.
The state sponsoring committee is composed of businessmen who support the activities of vocational agriculture departments. This committee has been in existence since 1947. Organized by a group of Chicago businessmen, it has grown to include firms of almost every size
and kind.
Heading the state sponsoring committee during 1961 are W.Clif- ford Lant, farm editor of the Moline Daily Dispatch, chairman; and Hugh Muncy, executive secretary of the Illinois Retail Merchants Association, Chicago, vice chairman.
Representing the five districts into which Illinois is divided are Richard E. Bowling, Marshall Putnam oil Co., Henry; William Rushton, First National Bank, Joliet; Dorian Smith, Menard Electric Co-op., Petersburg; James Norman, Palmer American National Bank, Danville; and Orville M. Streiff, retired Highland banker.
Other downstate representatives include Andy Bird, Tri-County Electric Co-Op, Mt. Vernon; Earl Heacock, Central Illinois Public Serv- ice Co., Springfield; James Hume, H. D. Hume Co., Mendota; W. B. Trenchard, DeLand State Bank; and Ivan Parett, Illinois Agricultural Association, Bloomington.
Chicago members of the statewide committee are M. G. VanBuskirk, Illinois Dairy Products Association; John Austin, Sears Roebuck and Co.; and C. W. Weldon, First National Bank.
Acting as secretary of the state sponsoring committee is H. M. Strubinger of Springfield, a supervisor of agricultural education with the State Board of Vocational Education.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Note To Editors; These four stories announce the four area farm manage- ment tours scheduled in a few weeks. One or more of them may have special interest for your readers.
Washington County Farmers Host Farm Management Tour August 23
URBANA — Two outstanding Washington county farmers will serve as hosts for the southern Illinois area farm management tour on Aug- ust 23.
Beginning at 10 a.m. visitors will gather at the Alfred Unver- fehrt farm, one mile south and 2*5 miles west of okawville. This tenant- operated 250-acre farm has 34 dairy cows averaging over 12,000 pounds of milk per cow per year. The operator uses a three-stall milking parlor, a pipeline milker and a bulk tank. He has also been farrowing 30 lit- ters twice a year but plans to expand to 50 litters.
Unverfehrt has also had excellent crop returns . Visitors will see how he has averaged 85-bushel corn yields for the past three years.
At noon tour visitors will stop at the Okawville Community Park for a box lunch. Reservations should be made with Washington county farm adviser W. D. Smith, or with D. F. Wilken, 450 Mumford Hall, Urbana.
At 1 p.m. tour visitors will stop at the Melvin and Melroy Renegarbe farm, h mile west of Addieville. Here a father and son are operating 440 acres and handling 2,000 laying hens, 12 litters farrowed four times a year and 200 to 300 feeder calves. They use a picker- sheller and an auger feed bunk and are building a cement silo to store high-moisture corn.
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Many new ideas are being profitably used on this farm. The operators achieved $28 more returns per acre in 1960 with only $8 more cost than similar- type farms .
This tour is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Man- agement Service and the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension Service. Ed Thurn, Mt. Vernon, local farm management fieldman, is tour chairman. All interested persons are welcome to attend. Tour adjourn- ment time is 3 p.m.
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Menard County Farm Selected For Farm Management Tour August 31
URBANA — An outstanding Menard county farm has been selected for the central Illinois area Farm Management Tour August 31, D. F. Wilken, University of Illinois farm management specialist, reported this week.
Beginning at 10:30 a.m., members of the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Management Association will meet at New Salem State Park, one mile south of Petersburg, for their annual business meeting.
At 11:30 the group will have lunch in the park. Reservations should be sent to Menard county farm adviser Herbert Short, Petersburg, or to D. Fc Wilken, 450 Mumford Hall, Urbana.
At 1:00 p.m. the tour begins at the Delmar Nance farm, 2 1/2
miles west of New Salem park or 3 miles east, 2 miles north and 1/2
mile west of Tallula.
On this 380-acre farm, Nance handles 200 to 300 feeder cattle and 500 hogs a year. He has used a self- feeding bunker silo since ic»50o He also has two glass-lined silos, one used for corn and one for "hay- lage.H
He feeds hogs in confinement and uses a lagoon waste-disposal system. He blends his own rations with a mix mill on the farm.
Nance is using up-to-date knowledge in livestock feeding, feed handling and processing and making it pay, Wilken observes.
This tour is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Man- agement Service and the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension Service. Charles Botterbusch, Springfield, local farm management fieldman, is tour chairman. All interested persons are welcome to attend.
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Two Kane County Farms Selected For Farm Management Tour August 28
URBANA — Two outstanding Kane county farms have been selected as stops for the northern Illinois area farm management tour August 28, University of Illinois farm management specialist D. F. Wilken announced this week.
Beginning at 10 a.m., visitors will meet at the Harmon Broth- ers farm, owned by R. N. Rasmusen, one mile south and one mile west of Elburn. The operators on this 500-acre farm are farrowing 12 litters of hogs six times a year, carry 300 choice feeder calves and use ear corn cribs converted to store shelled corn. They dry and feed all the grain they produce.
Wilken reports that these operators are achieving 10 percent more output per man than similar-type farms. One brother has charge of the hogs, while the other manages the feeder cattle. They also use a practical approach to grain storage and handling and keep records of all costs.
At noon, tour visitors will stop at the Plowing Match Associa- tion Park at Big Rock for a box lunch. G. R. Carlisle, U. of I. live- stock specialist, will discuss low-cost rations for beef feeding. Reser- vations should be sent to Kane county farm adviser L. D. Kerley at Geneva or to D. F. Wilken, 450 Mumford Hall, Urbana.
At 1:30 p.m. the tour stops at the Lawrence S trope farm, two miles west and one mile north of Big Rock. This owner-operator is han- dling 500 choice feeder calves a year on 270 acres. He has consistently produced beef gains at a feed cost of less than $15 a hundred pounds . He has been very successful with corn silage rations, Wilken reports. He uses less grain to get 100 pounds of gain than the average cattle feeder.
This tour is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Man- agement Service and the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension Service. Don Muehling, Naperville, area farm management fieldman, is tour chairman. All interested persons are welcome to attend.
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Two Adams County Farms Selected For Farm Management Tour August 29
URBANA — Two outstanding Adams county farms have been selected for the western Illinois area farm management tour August 29, D. F. Wilken, University of Illinois farm management specialist, announced this week.
Beginning at 10 a.m., visitors will meet at the Roland Wittier farm, 5 1/2 miles north and 1 1/2 miles west of Coatsburg. Here on this 160-acre farm, Wittier is handling 100 litters of hogs a year.
This farm is an excellent example of how a young farmer with limited capital developed a successful farm business with good manage- ment and a desire to succeed, Wilken reports. The operator is producing $32 more return per acre with $3 less cost than similar-sized hog farms. His output per man is 40 percent higher than average.
At 11:30 the tour will stop at the Pleasant Grove Church, 2 1/2 miles south of Quincy Airport, for lunch. Reservations should be sent to Adams county farm adviser S. E. Myers, Quincy, or to D. F. Wilken, 450 Mumford Hall, Urbana.
At 1:15 p.m. the tour visitors will stop at the Melvin and Dean Sims farm, 10 miles east and 3 1/2 miles south of Quincy. On this 820-acre farm, the Sims brothers are handling 80 litters and 200 feeder calves a year. They are using a corn combine, an automatic grinder for ear corn, a stack silo with bunks alongside and a glass-lined silo for storing high-moisture corn.
This farm shows the results of many good management decisions over the past 10 years, Wilken reports.
This tour is sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau Farm Man- agement Service and the University of Illinois Agricultural Extension Service. All interested persons are welcome to attend. Thomas Jennings, Camp Point, area farm management fieldman, is tour chairman.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grasshoppers Threatening Crops In Some Illinois Areas
URBANA — Grasshoppers are threatening corn, soybeans and for- ages in some localized Illinois areas, H. B. Petty reported this week.
Petty is an entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
The 'hoppers are coming from ditch banks, roadsides and clover fields. After they strip vegetation in these areas, they move on to soybean and corn fields. Petty warns that grasshoppers feeding on beans and blossoms now, while pods are filling, can cut yields.
On corn, 'hoppers devour leaves and silks and even chew the stalks. This damage affects pollination and reduces ear size. There- fore Petty advises farmers to check their fields immediately to see whether 'hoppers are present.
The abundance of grasshoppers in some areas depends on last
year's 'hopper population and rainfall earlier this summer. Areas with
few grasshoppers probably had heavy rains when the 'hoppers were small.
Areas now threatened by these insects probably had heavy rains after the
'hoppers were large enough to survive the rains.
To control grasshoppers on soybeans and corn, use lh pounds of toxaphene or h pound of dieldrin per acre. Let 40 days elapse between application of dieldrin and harvest.
To control grasshoppers on hay for dairy cattle, use one pound of malathion per acre. Then wait one week before harvesting.
Do not feed toxaphene-treated forage to dairy cattle or ani- mals being finished for slaughter, Petty advises.
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Picnic Beetles Uninvited Picnic Guests
URBANA — The saga of the uninvited guest applies especially well to the picnic beetle or scavenger beetle, as he is sometimes known.
This shiny black fellow has a particularly keen nose — if insects have noses — that's attracted to the aroma of food. No doubt you've spotted him on your picnics this summer, observes H. B. Petty, entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural His- tory Survey.
About h inch long, the beetle has four yellowish-orange spots
on his back. He's not a bit fussy about his food and considers rotting fruits and vegetables, in addition to picnic lunches, quite a delicacy. Petty therefore suggests that you pick fruits and vegetables as soon as they ripen. Preventing insect damage to fruits and vegetables also discourages picnic beetles.
To get more scientific, sprays of malathion and. diazinon will definitely throw the beetle's nose out of kilter. But it may be neces- sary to repeat applications as new beetles move into the area.
Controlling beetles in backyards and picnic areas, however,
is a beetle of another color. You can spray the bushes and garbage
containers with malathion or diazinon a few hours before serving food.
Also give the general area a light spraying. But this is not a sure- cure method. The beetle's sensitive smelling power can detect food from long distances, and he may zoom in over the sprayed surfaces and land directly on the food.
Maybe the best solution is to simply pack an extra sandwich or two for the ravenous beetles.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Home Owners Often Confuse Flying Ants With Flying Termites
URBANA — "Termites!" exclaims Mr. Home Owner as he watches them scurrying along the woodwork.
But wait just a minute. What he thinks are termites may actu- ally be flying ants. Except for two or three differences, these two insects closely resemble each other, observes H. B. Petty, entomologist with the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey.
A difference in wing size is the easiest way to tell them apart. The termite's front and back wings are the same size. But the ant's front wings are larger than its back wings.
Termites also swarm from February until June or July. But ants swarm from February until November. So it's a good bet that in- sects swarming now are not termites.
Worker termites are always white. But worker ants may be
black, yellow, tan or almost red. White objects seen in ant colonies are larvae and eggs.
The body structure of termites also distinguishes them from ants. Petty explains that both insects have three main segments — a head, thorax or middle section and abdomen. Because the thorax and abdomen are bluntly joined together, termites are often called blunt- waisted insects.
Ants, however, have the thorax and abdomen joined together with a slight restriction, giving them a thin-waisted appearance.
So next time you think termites are invading your home, grab one of the little fellers and examine him closely. Chances are he's simply a flying ant — you hope.
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Cattlemen Must Produce Right Kind Of Cattle
URBANA — "If cattlemen produce the right kind of beef cattle, they will find a ready market any place any time, " believes A. L. Neumann, head of the University of Illinois beef cattle division.
By "right kind, " Neumann means 12- to 18-month-old steers, weighing between 900 and 1,050 pounds, that grade from high good to middle choice.
Chain stores prefer these steers because they can merchandise them without excessive fat trimming. They can also sell them at prices that produce large-volume sales.
Hotels and. restaurants are about the only outlet today for
heavy, highly finished cattle. These cattle often sell at a lower price
than medium-weight cattle. And it doesn't take many to fill the hotel
and restaurant demand for prime loins.
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Pelleted Feeds Increase Gains
URBANA — Livestock receiving pelleted feeds gain faster and more economically than livestock receiving the same feed in nonpelleted form, reports H. A. Cate of the University of Illinois.
Cate explains that animals eat larger quantities of pelleted feeds than nonpelleted feeds, and this causes the faster gains.
Pelleting does not change or improve the nutritional value of feeds. It does, however, slightly lower digestibility, since pelleted feeds pass through the digestive system more quickly. But increased consumption offsets this disadvantage.
Since self-feeding increases the consumption rate, limiting the feed intake of animals receiving pellets decreases the value of pelleting.
Cate says that, in general, pellets fed in the same amounts
as nonpelleted feeds will not increase animal gains or improve feed
conversion. Pellets, however, may reduce waste.
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*EWS FROM AGRICULTURE
MIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UI Ag Engineers Study High-Temperature Corn Drying
URBANA — University of Illinois agricultural engineers are working to develop a dryer that will attach to corn harvesting equipment in the field and dry the grain at the same rate it is harvested.
In the experimental quick-dryer, a burner assembly blasts heated air over high-moisture corn as it tumbles through a 10-foot rotary drum dryer — dropping the moisture content from 30 to 15 percent in about two minutes.
U. of I. agricultural engineer Roger Yoerger says air in the dryer is heated to 500 to 700 degrees compared with an air temperature of about 160 to 180 degrees in conventional dryers.
Two main purposes of the tests to date have been to find out how high temperatures affect drying rates and to study the effects of cracking the corn as a possible means of speeding up drying rates.
In tests so far, cracking has had about the same effect on corn drying rate as researchers found when they boosted the air tempera- ture from 500 to 700 degrees.
Yoerger points out that the tests are in the early experi- mental stage. The future of the quick dryer depends not only on the mechanical problems of building the field machine, but also on nutri- tion tests set for later this year.
Feeding trials are planned to check what effects high- temperature drying might have on the feeding value of corn.
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Future Farmers Recommended For Highest Degree
SPRINGFIELD — Fifteen Future Farmers of America members from Illinois will be recommended to receive the organization's highest degree, that of American Farmer, at the 34th annual National FFA Conven- tion in Kansas City, Missouri, October 11-13.
Herbert R. Damisch, Chief, Agricultural Education, said today that the 15 boys named from Illinois are Dale Wayne Allen, Ashton; Jerry Dean Barth, Minonk; George Alvin Brown, Jr., Waverly? Gary S. Dameron, Towanda; Archie L. Devore, Mulberry Grove? Lynn Laible, Toluca; Lyle E. Moscher, Lanark; Lloyd Lee Nash, Martinsville? Daryl Franklin Pfoutz, Franklin Grove; Robert W. Post, Crescent City; Kenneth C. Steinmann, Waterloo? Edward Stokes, El Paso; Kermit L. Vollmar, Canton; Samuel E. Weston, Rossville; and Bill Wilson, Champaign.
Nationally the FFA Board of Directors voted to recommend 377
Future Farmers to receive the American Farmer degree this year. The
degrees will be presented at the Municipal Auditorium in Kansas City
during the afternoon session on October 11. Each degree winner will receive a certificate and gold key from the FFA organization, plus a cash travel allowance from the Future Farmers of America Foundation,
Inc.
The American Farmer award is based on the FFA member's record in farming, leadership and scholarship. The degree is limited to FFA members who have been out of high school at least one year and who show evidence of becoming successfully established in farming. State FFA associations can select one American Farmer degree candidate for every 1,000 members.
Star Farmer awards will be announced during the convention's evening session on October 11. The boy selected as the most outstanding of the American Farmer degree winners will be named Star Farmer of America and will receive a $1,000 cash award. Three others will receive regional Star American Farmer awards of $500 each.
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Diversity of Illinois college of agriculture urbana, Illinois
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bills Threaten Medical Progress
URBANA — Two bills recently introduced in Congress, if passed, will seriously retard medical progress for both man and animals, Univer- sity of Illinois veterinarians warn. Both bills rigidly control re- search work.
The Moulder bill would establish an agency for laboratory animal control headed by a commissioner whose only qualification would be that he be admitted to practice law before the United States Supreme Court. The bill would forbid experiments or tests on living animals without prior approval of a written project plan by the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare.
The Griffiths bill would permit experimenting on vertebrate animals, such as dogs, rats, birds, frogs, snakes and fish, only when
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no other "feasible and satisfactory methods" could be used to get the information.
"These bills are the most serious threat to biological re- search and teaching in many years," Dr. Norman Levine, U. of I. para- sitologist, said. "The Moulder bill would be ridiculous if it were not so dangerous. Millions of experimental animals are used each year — over 12 million mice alone. Imagine the paper work involved in getting per- mission to use theml And the Griffiths bill — well, you could spend a lifetime trying to prove that absolutely nothing existed that could sub- stitute for a vertebrate animal in an experiment."
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"Both bills claim that their objective is to insure the humane treatment of animals," Dr. Levine continued, "but they are not the way to do ito"
One need only look at the advances in medical research to re- alize how dangerous these restrictive bills are. Every drug — including aspirin — was tested and every major operation was performed first on animals and then on man. Penicillin, blood transfusions, heart surgery, anesthesia or any other medical advance would not exist without animal experimentation. And although insulin was discovered years ago, each new batch must be tested on animals before being distributed for sale. Such routine processes would require tons of paper work and extra time if the Moulder bill were passed.
Pets of all kinds have also benefited from animal research. Vaccines against rabies, distemper/ surgery for heart defects, blindness, cancer, diaphragmatic hernias and treatments and cures for numerous other diseases were first performed on research animals.
"Animals are essential for research," Dr. Levine emphasized. "And the dog is one of our most ideal subjects. Its anatomy and physi- ology closely resemble man's. It is an ideal size. And it is not a vegetarian like many other animals. Also, dogs suffer from many of the same diseases people have."
Stories about the "butcher" or "sadist" scientist could not be further from the truth. "No scientist or scientific laboratory has ever been found guilty in court of cruelty to animals, despite numerous efforts by antivivisectionists to discover or manufacture cases of cru- elty, " Dr. Carl Brandly, dean of the U. of I. College of Veterinary Medicine, said.
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Veterinarians, physicians and biological scientists are dedi- cated to the alleviation of human and animal suffering. They are as concerned as legislators and citizens about humane treatment of labora- tory animals and have formed two national organizations devoted to the welfare of these animals.
Legislation would not insure humane treatment of animals; it would only cut down on the number used and thereby seriously hamper progress in both animal and human medicine.
"The choice the Moulder and Griffiths bills offer is whether
to cut off our leg at the knee or the hip. But we are in a desperate
race for national survival and to cut off even as much as a big toe
would seriously interfere with our nation's ability to run that race,"
Dean Brandly said.
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"Humane" Laws Not Needed,
U. Of I. Veterinarians Maintain
URBANA — The Griffiths and Moulder bills now before Congress claim that their main objective is to insure humane treatment of labora- tory animals. This claim is refuted by University of Illinois veteri- narians, who emphatically state that laboratory animals are not mis- treated.
And, they add, these bills which restrict the use of research animals would accomplish nothing except to retard medical progress.
As a typical example of the life of an experimental animal, U. of I. veterinarians state the case of "Tootsie," a reddish-brown, long-haired dog.
"Tootsie" was born and raised in a second-story, one-room metal cage. Like other cages, this one is devoid of fanciness, but there is room to jump and stretch — with a couple of feet left over. And aside from this simplicity, "Tootsie" can boast of efficient daily maid service.
"Tootsie1 s" home looks out onto more cages just like hers. They house chickens, pigs and her best friend, "Fluffy," the cat.
"Tootsie" is not an ordinary dog. Her life in a cage has made her a bit shy of most people — except her caretaker, Leonard White. Her special feeling for White is not one-sided. As White explains while shaking hands with "Tootsie," "You can't help but grow fond of these animals. You know, Tootsie' s the spit tin' image of her mother."
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Contrary to popular belief, "Tootsie" and her associates sel- dom see the operating table. "Ninety percent of the experiments on ani- mals consist of nutritional or drug tests, " Dr. Norman Levine, U. of I. parasitologist, explained. "And in the small minority where operations are performed, the animals are under complete anesthesia and everything possible is done to make them comfortable."
Making them comfortable is one of White's most important jobs After an animal is brought back from surgery, White keeps a constant vigil and immediately notifies the veterinarian in charge if the animal has any complications.
Welfare of animals is of utmost importance, according to Dr. Levene, not only because veterinarians are dedicated to their well being but also because any complication could, ruin an experiment.
True, experimental dogs are not showered daily with affection
as is the dearly beloved family pet. But they do have pure food and
water and good shelter not given to stray dogs or ill-treated pets.
And they seem happy. As Dr. D. E. Dees. U. of I. veterinary scientist,
commented, "Dogs — the puppies as well as the full-grown ones — adjust
quite well to life in a cage. Even when we open a cage, the animal
seldom tries to jump out and run away. Why should it? All its needs
are met right here."
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Feeding Margin Only Source Of Profit In Feeding Cattle
URBANA — More and more cattle feeders are finding that feeding margin is their only source of profit, observes A. L. Neumann, head of the University of Illinois beef cattle division.
He explains that prices of feeder cattle are still relatively high. Yet prices for finished or slaughter cattle are not climbing in comparison. On the average, the price that farmers pay for feeder cat- tle and the price they sell them for as slaughter cattle have been almost the same in the past year.
Therefore cattle feeders must be shrewd enough to produce cheap gains that cover all costs and still provide some profit. This means feeding calves or light yearling cattle on rations containing a lot of cheaply produced roughages.
What's keeping the price of feeder cattle up? First, more feeder cattle from the west are being fed in the west. Second, more midwest farmers are feeding cattle. And, third, already established cattle feeders are increasing the size of their operations.
The combination of these reasons has created a shortage of
feeder cattle and kept the price up. Neumann says these trends do not
seem to be temporary. They may continue for years.
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JIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farmers Join Labor Day "Holiday Alert" Campaign
URBANA — Illinois farmers are taking to heart the idea that
safety is everybody's job by cooperating with the state Division of
Traffic Safety during the Holiday Alert campaign for the Labor Day week
end.
The farmers' role in the safety program is to fly red flags
along roadsides in front of their homes to remind motorists of the added
danger on the highway during the holiday.
University of Illinois farm safety specialist 0. L. Hogsett says the farm flags should be a reminder to all motorists whether they plan a long trip or not. Nearly two-thirds of all holiday traffic ac- cidents occur within 25 miles of the victim's home, indicating that too much familiarity with the home area roads is a vice we can do without.
Hogsett points out that the farm flags are only one part of a major drive to save lives during the Labor Day week end. Also in- cluded in the program is the "Lights On" campaign which asks motorists to drive with their lights on during the daylight hours of the holiday.
Motorists also will be asked to drive at five miles below the
posted speed limits during the holiday, which starts at 6:00 p.m. Friday,
September 1, and runs until midnight on Labor Day, September 4.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-H Peace Corps Project Under Way
URBANA — A special 4-H Peace Corps project which will send qualified 4-H'ers on two-year assignments to Latin American countries is fast becoming a reality.
Under the program, 50 high school graduates with strong back- grounds in 4-H Club work will receive Peace Corps assignments starting about December 1.
These young people will work as two-person teams and help to develop 4-H- type rural youth programs in the project countries. They will be accompanied to their assignments and guided in their work by a project director and three regional supervisers representing the Na- tional 4-H Foundation.
Basically the Peace Corps teams will be responsible for re- cruiting and training local 4-H Club leaders, helping to establish and carry out club and "county"-level 4-H project exhibits and visiting mem- bers' projects to provide technical assistance with their project work.
Selected candidates will receive two months of training at the National 4-H Club Center in Washington, D. C, all expenses paid. From these trainees, volunteers will be selected for further training and assignment to the 4-H Peace Corps project.
Trainees not selected will return home with no further obli- gations, but will be classified as "Standby Reserves" in case they are needed for this or other Peace Corps projects.
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Develop Budget Form For Deciding On 1962 Wheat Program
URBANA — University of Illinois farm management specialists this week developed a special budget form to help farmers work out their decisions on the 1962 Wheat Program.
The form enables farmers to estimate their incomes if they divert only the required 10 percent acreage reduction or if they divert more acreage voluntarily into conservation use. It shows estimated fertilizer and other crop costs based on detailed research studies con- ducted by the department of agricultural economics.
When a farmer has worked through the form, he can see the dif- ferences between his income from the minimum participation and from putting more of his wheat allotment into conservation uses.
Extension farm management specialist R. B. Schwart believes it will make very little difference in Illinois farmers' income whether they divert 10 percent of their wheat acreage or a larger amount. on most farms the land not used for wheat could be planted to soybeans or corn.
Copies of this form will be available from all county farm
advisers by September 8.
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Editors' Note; The following questions and answers present the general provisions of the 1962 Wheat Stabilization Program. Farmers who have specific questions about the program for their farms should see their farm adviser or their county ASC committee.)
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE 1962 WHEAT STABILIZATION PROGRAM WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF THE NEW WHEAT STABILIZATION PROGRAM?
Congress intended to accomplish three things when it passed the Agricultural Act of 1961: (1) decrease government stocks? (2) re- duce government costs of storing surplus wheat; (3) increase wheat pro- ducers' net incomes. MUST EVERY FARMER PARTICIPATE?
Yes, every farmer who grows wheat must plant within his allot- ment or marketing quota exemption or be subject to heavy penalties. In the national wheat referendum on August 24, more than the required two-thirds majority approved the 1962 program. HOW DOES A FARMER PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?
A farmer must plant within his allotment (or marketing quota
exemption) in order to sell the wheat he produces without penalty.
The allotment or marketing quota exemption has been cut 10 percent from
1961.
In past years farmers with allotments of less than 15 acres
could grow up to 15 acres and market this wheat without penalty. They
were not eligible for price supports, however, if they planted more than
their allotments.
Farmers who have planted above their small allotments and grown 15 acres or less any time in the past three years must cut their acreage by 10 percent in 1962. They cannot plant more than 13.5 acres. They can sell the wheat they produce without penalty, but they cannot get
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the $2 a bushel price support if their allotments are less than 13.5
acres. In this situation, the 13.5 acres is called the marketing quota
exemption.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR PRICE SUPPORT?
Farmers who plant within their allotments and divert 10 per- cent of their 1961 allotment into conserving uses are eligible for price support of about $2 a bushel in 1962. They must also provide for stor- age. (The 1962 allotment figure sent to farms by local ASC offices in- cluded the 10 percent required reduction.) HOW DOES A FARMER QUALIFY FOR THE CONSERVATION PAYMENTS?
Farmers who have grown more than 15 acres of wheat in any of the past three years and whose 1962 allotment is 13.5 acres or more can receive conservation payments by devoting the 10 percent acreage cut to a conservation use. If he desires, a wheat grower can divert an addi- tional amount up to 30 percent and receive additional payment.
If a farmer has not planted more than 15 acres in any of the past three years, he can get a payment by diverting at least 10 percent of his highest acreage, or by complying with his 1962 allotment and de- voting the diverted acreage to conservation uses. If the 40 percent diversion is less than 10 acres, the wheat grower can divert up to 10 acres into conservation uses and receive payment. HOW MUCH PAYMENT WILL A FARMER RECEIVE?
The payment rate on the first 10 percent reduction will be based on the county average yield times 45 percent of the county support rate. The payment on each farm will be the county rate times the wheat farm productivity index times the number of acres diverted.
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For farmers who voluntarily reduce their wheat acreage beyond the required 10 percent cut, payments on this additional acreage will be based on 60 percent of the county support rate. County support rates will be about 21 cents a bushel above 1961. HOW IS THE FARM PRODUCTIVITY INDEX DETERMINED?
Farm productivity indexes are established by the ASC commit- tees in each county. They are intended to reflect yield differences between farms. If a farmer does not feel that his productivity index reflects the actual yields on his farm, he can present evidence of ac- tual 1959 and 1960 crop yields to the county committees and they must use these yields in setting the productivity index. HOW WILL PAYMENTS BE MADE?
Payments will be made in cash or in wheat, if available, at the option of the Secretary of Agriculture. Up to one-half of the pay- ment can be made within a few weeks after sign-up if the producer wants it. The remainder will be paid out after compliance with the program has been determined. ON A SMALL FARM, IS IT POSSIBLE TO GET PAYMENTS AND NO PRICE SUPPORTS?
Yes, this could occur when a farmer plants within his market- ing quota exemption but above his allotment. He could still divert acreage and collect payments, and yet not qualify for price support.
WHAT IS THE PENALTY IF A PRODUCER OVERPLANTS HIS ALLOTMENT OR MARKETING QUOTA EXEMPTION?
If a producer overplants his allotment, he can destroy the
excess before a certain date and avoid penalty. If he does not do this,
he will be subject to marketing quota penalty. This penalty is the
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number of acres overplanted times twice the normal yield times 65 per- cent of parity. Based on recent parity price, this would be about $1.54 a bushel.
IF A FARMER HAS GROWN NO WHEAT IN 1959, 1960 or 1961, CAN HE GROW WHEAT FOR MARKET IN 1962.
No, if he has not grown any wheat in the past three years and
has no allotment or marketing quota exemption, then he cannot grow wheat
for market in 1962.
IS THERE ANY WAY A FARMER CAN GROW WHEAT WITHOUT BEING SUBJECT TO MAR- KETING QUOTAS?
Yes, a farmer can apply for permission to plant up to 30 acres of wheat for feed. If this is approved, he can be exempt from quotas, provided the crop is fed entirely on the farm where it is grown. ARE ANY OTHER CROPS COVERED IN THE AGRICULTURAL ACT OF 1961?
Yes, the feed grain program in effect in 1961 is extended for
one year, and feed barley is included.
IF A FARMER GROWS BOTH WHEAT AND CORN, MUST HE SIGN UP TO DIVERT ACREAGE FROM BOTH?
No, there is no cross-compliance between the wheat and the
feed grain programs.
WHAT MUST A FARMER DO WITH THE ACREAGE HE DIVERTS TO QUALIFY FOR CON- SERVATION PAYMENTS?
The conservation requirements will be the same as for the 1961
feed grain program. The land that is designated as diverted acres must
not be pastured or cut for hay except under special emergencies declared
by the Secretary of Agriculture.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 1961
Urges Two-Year Food Reserve Against Atomic Attack
WOODRUFF, WISCONSIN — A two-year reserve store of standarized, concentrated, ready-to-eat foods, as insurance for survival in the event of atomic attack, was urged here tonight by Dean Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Addressing the 22nd annual "Starch Round Table, " a conference of carbohydrate scientists from the United States and abroad, Dean Howard declared that "adequate supplies of food will be the ultimate determinant of survival." He emphasized that our huge stores of sur- plus grain, which have given us a false sense of security, are valueless without the industrial capacity to process them into food and the dis- tribution facilities capable of transporting food to consumers.
Seeing the threat of an atomic knockout of our machinery of food production, processing and distribution, Dean Howard warned of the imperative need to start at once toward a reserve supply of standardized, nutritious foods, and to develop a widespread system of storage centers from which such food can be dispensed.
Because of our extreme dependence on mechanized equipment and transportation, we are much more vulnerable to atomic attack than is Russia, the Illinois dean said. But a two-year food cache would be a resource that Russia or China could not possibly match, and would be an ace-in-the-hole in our diplomatic dealings with the Communist world.
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Speaking to an audience including a broad representation of corn processors, Dean Howard urged this industry to take a leadership role in building the food reserve.
The Starch Round Table, sponsored by Corn Industries Research
Foundation, Inc., Washington D.C., is an annual gathering of research
scientists, geneticists and carbohydrate chemists. The conference
serves as a forum for reporting on the work of foundation-supported
grants in a continuing program of basic and applied research.
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FOR RELEASE MONDAY P.M., SEPTEMBER 11, 1961
UI Ag Engineer Reports Progress Of Manure Lagoons For Poultry
URBANA — The desire to find a less costly method of poultry manure disposal has attracted much attention to lagoons either a short distance away from or directly under the poultry house, a University of Illinois agricultural engineer reported today.
Speaking on the U. of I. Poultry Day program in Urbana, en- gineer Art Muehling said lagoons dug away from the house are built like a farm pond with a minimum depth of three feet and a maximum depth of five feet.
"Under the system manure from the poultry house is periodi- cally flushed into the lagoon, where bacteria digest it, " Muehling said, "Researchers recommend that these lagoons allow eight square feet of lagoon surface area per bird."
Producers using indoor lagoons are ponding water directly under a slatted or wire floor in the poultry houses and allowing all droppings to fall directly into the water, Muehling explained.
"The University of Nebraska has had a house of this type in
operation for 10 months. They hope they will be able to go five years
without cleaning out the lagoon, " he said.
Muehling stressed that the use of lagoons still is in the ex- perimental stage. Researchers are in no position to forecast their performance for longer periods.
"However, even though experience is limited and the amount of test results is small, the potential for lagoons for poultry appears to be good," Muehling concluded.
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Soybean Price In Government Hands, Economist Points Out
URBANA — Higher support prices, a record-sized crop and a huge oil surplus means that soybean prices in the year ahead will greatly depend on government actions, a University of Illinois agricultural economist believes.
T. A. Hieronymus reports that the 1961 feed grain program and a higher support price of $2.30 a bushel have boosted the soybean supply for the coming year about 25 percent over a year ago. He feels that the market cannot absorb this many more soybeans in one year with the price support of $2.30.
So the result will be an accumulation of beans in the commod- ity Credit Corporation stockpile. The amount that the government wants to stockpile will determine what action will be taken to dispose of oil and meal through subsidied export programs.
Here is how Hieronymus appraises the situation for the year
ahead:
Any forecast on future soybean prices has many uncertainties.
At the present time he assumes that the Berlin situation will remain
tense, but no worse.
The total supply beginning October 1 will be about 700 million
bushels. Bad weather might change crop conditions somewhat, but that
doesn't seem likely.
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Any soybeans the CCC takes over will be offered for sale next summer at $2.46 1/2 a bushel for No. 2 soybeans. This is the maximum price. But this price will be reached only if growers forfeit their beans to the CCC. This will happen only if beans remain below the loan next spring.
Government programs could involve oil buying to encourage a large crush to avoid a soybean surplus. The real question is the amount of beans the CCC wants to hold as a desirable reserve.
Assuming government holdings of about 50 million bushels of soybeans a year from now, the crush could run about 450 million bushels and exports about 155 million bushels.
Considering some increase in demand for meal and the level of livestock and poultry prices, meal could average about $52.85 a ton for bulk 44 percent meal at Decatur for the marketing year.
Soybean oil is in surplus. The increased crush of soybeans
would release additional oil supplies on a world market already well
supplied. But government programs will probably result in higher prices
to prevent a soybean surplus from developing.
In terms of seasonal price movement, futures could reach a peak in November or December and decline during the spring months. War would of course change this picture.
Meal buyers, remembering last year, may overbuy during the fall months, and higher prices could reduce use just as last fall a low price stimulated use.
Major boosts in soybean supplies have occurred before as a by- product of programs for other commodities, particularly in 1954 and 1958. In both years the crop was kept out of serious surplus trouble by a reduction in the support price.
Price supports low enough to avoid accumulation of a surplus have been a vital part of the successful growth of the soybean market in recent years, Hieronymus concludes.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Three Illinois Farm Advisers Receive National Recognition
URBANA — Three Illinois farm advisers will receive distin- guished service awards from the National Association of County Agricul- tural Agents at the organization's annual banquet this week (Sept. 14) in New York.
Receiving the awards are Lyman B. Kimmel, Saline county; Hubert H. Fulkerson, Ogle county; and Paul T. Wilson, Livingston county.
Lyman Kimmel has been with the extension service for 16 years. He graduated from the University of Illinois in 1928. W. D. Murphy, assistant director of extension, notes that Kimmel has made outstanding accomplishments in the areas of livestock and soils, a particular need in the counties where he has served.
Hubert Fulkerson graduated from the University of Illinois in
1943. He served in Saline, Livingston and Williamson counties before
going to Ogle county. Fulkerson is credited with organizing one of the
most soundly conceived county educational programs in Illinois.
Among Paul Wilson's long list of accomplishments are the de- velopment of a coordinated Soil Test Recommendation program and a Live- stock Boosters organization in Livingston county.
Wilson also helped organize the Avoca Betterment Club — a com- munity club with family membership. The club meets regularly each month with educational and entertainment programs.
Wilson graduated from the University of Illinois in 1933. He served in Saline county before going to Livingston county in 1950.
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Extramural Ag Courses Offered For College Credit in State
URBANA — Karl E. Gardner, University of Illinois College of Agriculture associate dean, announces that the college will offer six extramural courses this fall.
Persons taking the courses may receive graduate or undergradu- ate credit, according to Gardner.
The courses are:
1. Ag Econ. E332: Livestock Marketing. The first class meets Thursday, September 21, 6:30 p.m., in room 310, Science Building, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb.
2. Plant Pathology E377 (same as Agronomy 377): Diseases of Field Crops. Beginning on Thursday, September 21, 6:30 p.m., this course meets in the Farm Bureau Building, Edwardsville.
3. Ag Engineering E381: Farm Electrical Equipment. Meeting in the Freeport Senior High School Agriculture Building at 6j30 p.m., this course also begins on Thursday, September 21.
4. Ag Economics E324: Farm Operation. This course meets in 214 Schroeder Hall, Illinois State Normal University, Normal, beginning Tuesday, September 19, at 6:30 p.m.
5. Ag Engineering E311: Function, Application, Adjustment
and Management of Farm Machinery. This course meets in Pekin High
School, rooms 71 and 72, at 8:30 a.m. on Saturdays, beginning October
14. The class meets three Saturdays in the fall and five Saturdays in
the spring.
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6. Ag Economics E305: Agricultural Policies and Programs. Beginning Tuesday, September 19, this course meets in room 18, Spring- field High School, it 7 p.m.
These courses will be offered if at least 15 students register during the first class meeting, according to Gardner, He adds that a registration fee will be charged.
Before registering, students should make sure that they have the needed prerequisites for taking the course.
For more information, write Karl E. Gardner, associate dean,
104 Mumford Hall, University of Illinois, Urbana.
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Synchronized Breeding Will Help Make Al Of Hogs Practical
URBANA — Synchronized breeding offers one of the few possibil- ities for making artificial insemination of hogs practical, believes Philip Dziuk, University of Illinois animal physiologist.
To make AI of hogs practical, the females to be bred must come into heat at the same time. Then the farmer can have them bred at the same time. Otherwise he must have each female bred as she comes into heat. This is more trouble than it's worth, since (1) hogs are not usually handled individually, (2) it's difficult to accurately detect heat and (3) hogs come into heat any time during a three-week period.
With synchronized breeding, however, females come into heat simultaneously. Here's the experimental procedure Dziuk is using to make this possible:
A female sex hormone is mixed with the feed going to sows and gilts. The hormone prevents them from coming into heat. When the farmer wants to breed the females, he returns them to a normal diet. Within a few days, most of the females come into heat at the same time. Then they can be bred.
Savings in time and labor are among the biggest advantages of synchronized breeding, says Dziuk. Farmers can plan their breeding and farrowing schedules for a predetermined five-day period instead of the 30 days it usually takes.
Offspring are more uniform in age — making them easier to handle, feed and sell. Farmers can also plan their breeding programs so that animals can be marketed at the most advantageous times.
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Dziuk and colleagues have been working for several years to perfect synchronized breeding. When they first started tests, they used mice. Results were so promising that they began testing a few hogs
As the tests progressed, results became more and more encour- aging. Dziuk also modified the method of synchronizing breeding to make it more effective. He explains that because of the hog's peculiar physiology the first method sometimes caused cystic ovaries.
To overcome this disadvantage, he is now feeding a much higher level of the female sex hormone in conjunction with other hormones. This year he has stepped up testing of these improved methods and is using hogs on several selected Illinois farms.
Frank Hinds, of the University's Dixon Springs Experiment Station, also tested synchronized, breeding on a small flock of ewes last winter. Results were so successful that he plans to test a much larger flock this fall.
He uses the same method used for hogs except that only one hormone, the female sex hormone, is necessary. After this hormone is withdrawn from the feed, ewes comes into heat simultaneously and can be bred within 48 to 72 hours. Unlike hogs, sheep do not develop cystic ovaries from the hormone.
Hinds found that synchronized breeding has many of the same
advantages with ewes as with hogs — especially saving time and labor
during lambing.
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U. Of I. Veterinarians Fear Ergot Poisoning May Increase
URBANA — Alarmed by extremely heavy amounts of ergot found re- cently in wild grasses, rye and other cereals, University of Illinois veterinarians fear that ergot poisoning in cattle and swine will be greater this year than in the past.
"We've seen more ergot this summer than in the past several years," Dr. R. D. Hatch, U. of I. ambulatory veterinarian, said. "In fact, in the latest field examined, we had trouble finding normal in- stead of contaminated heads of grain."
Ergot is easily recognized, for it looks like jumbo black grains or seeds on early mature heads of infected grasses or grain. But, because ergot may be harbored in pastures, grain, straw or bedding, it is almost impossible to find.
"Some of the ergot grains we've found are the largest we've ever seen, Dr. Hatch said as he measured one sample with a ruler. It was three-quarters of an inch long.
According to Dr. Hatch, cattle grazing for 10 to 14 days on heavily infected pasture may develop an acute or "convulsive" poisoning. Muscular trembling, incoordination, convulsions and painful muscular contraction result.
"Animals with acute signs often recover with no serious after- effects if they are removed from the source of ergot, " Dr. Hatch said. "If not removed, the animals may become delirous and die."
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The more common type of ergot poisoning is chronic. Exposed to a lower dosage of ergot over a prolonged period, cattle can develop gangrene of the feet, ears and tail. In swine, only the ears and tail can be affected.
Chronic ergot poisoning usually appears as an "epidemic, " Dr. Hatch explained. Several animals may be affected simultaneously and in almost an identical manner. Cattle appear lame, but continue to have good appetites.
After gangrene develops, treatment is useless, according to
Dr. Hatch. But immediate removal from ergot will prevent the disease
from spreading.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Quarry Screen Not Satisfactory As Flooring For Hogs In U. Of I. Tests
URBANA — A University of Illinois swine researcher, A. H. Jensen, reports that quarry screen did not prove satisfactory as a flooring for hogs in recent tests.
This screen, which had one-inch-square openings, did not pro- vide enough surface for the animals to stand comfortably. As the pigs grew heavier, the screen hurt their feet. Consequently they didn't move around much, wouldn't eat and made slower gains than usual.
The pigs on the screen were compared with similar pigs on con- crete slabs and wood (fir) slabs. Pigs on the concrete and wood slats, gained equally well. Jensen added, however, that the concrete was much more durable than the fir. The pigs also chewed the fir.
Jensen and his co-workers are continuing the tests with slatted floors, since farmers are showing so much interest in them. Since the quarry screen didn't work, they are replacing it with a solid floor of green oak, which is more durable than fir.
Pigs on the solid green oak flooring will be compared with pigs on the concrete and fir slabs. So far the University has made no tests comparing the effects of solid wood flooring or slats.
A main advantage of slatted floors over solid floors is ease of cleaning. The pigs work the droppings through the slats and thus
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keep themselves clean. Manure is easy to remove from under the floor- ings without interference from pigs or equipment.
Jensen has observed that pigs that have too much room don't stay as clean as pigs in smaller quarters.
Pens in which the University is testing the various floors are about 6 by 12 feet. Each pen houses 10 or 12 pigs, averaging 7 square feet per animal. The area is not changed during the growing period, which starts when pigs weigh about 50 pounds.
The concrete slats are 5 inches wide at the top and taper to
3 1/2 inches at the bottom. Jensen warns that rough edges can injure
the pigs. The wood slats are 4 inches wide at the top and taper to
about 3 inches on the bottom. Both concrete and wood slats are spaced
one inch apart.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
College Of Agriculture Names Advisory Committees
URBANA — Dean Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture has announced the names of 41 agricultural and industrial leaders who will serve on advisory committees for the coming year.
In announcing the appointments. Dean Howard emphasized the key roles the committees play in helping the college keep abreast of the agricultural needs in research, teaching and extension.
While our county extension staffs as well as the teaching and research staff members of the college are carefully studying Illinois' changing agriculture, the advisory committees will assist in pinpointing needs, Dean Howard said.
Committee members are recommended by the departments and the appointments are approved by the President and the University of Illi- nois Board of Trustees. Appointments are effective September 1.
Committee members usually meet once or twice each year with
the various departments. Those appointed are as follows:
(Editor: See attached list.)
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ADVISORY COMMITTEES College of Agriculture September 1, 1961
Agricultural Economics
Nye F. Bouslog, Vice President, Union National Bank, Macomb 3 years
John A. Edwards, Greenlawn Farms, Tolcno 3 years
S. R. Golden, R. R. 1, Flora 2 years
James L. Humphreys, R. R. 1, Herrin 2 years
M. D. King, President, M. D. King Milling Company, Pittsfield 3 years
Harvey J. Schweitzer, Ph.D., Malta 1 year
Agricultural Engineering
H. V. Deffenbaugh, Farm Manager, Citizens National Bank, Paris 1 year
George W. Endicott, Ridgeview Farm, Villa Ridge 2 years
Albert Michael, Odell 2 years
A. D. Oderkirk, Manager, Babson Farms, Inc., DeKalb 3 years
F. Guy White, Bob White Farms, Girard 1 year
Agronomy
Martin Burrus, Burrus Seed Farms, Arenzville 1 year
Maxwell Crawford, R. R. 1, Milford 1 year
Dorsey Kirk (Master, Illinois State Grange), Oblong 3 years
Delbert Scheider, Red Oak 2 years
Paul Trovillion, Brownfield 2 years
M. Ward Reynolds, Grey stone Certified Farm Seeds, Altona 3 years
Animal Science J. R. Fulkerson, Fulkerson Farms, Jerseyville - Honorary Lifetime
Member Lloyd Hanna, Roseann Farms, Farmersville (Manager, Gietl Bros.,
Springfield) 1 year
Henry A. Longmeyer, Greenfield 1 year
R. 0. Nesheim, Manager - Livestock Feed Research, John Stuart
Research Laboratories (Quaker Oats Company), 617 Main Street,
Barrington 3 years
Ralph J. Thomas, Manager, Associate Hatchery Department, DeKalb
Agricultural Association, Inc., Sycamore 2 years
Paul E. Woodson, Woodson-Fennewald Commission Company, National
Stock Yards 3 years
Dairy Science
John C. Alison, Alison Farms, R. R. 2, Quincy 2 years
Homer Curtiss, Stockton 1 year
Harold E. Hartley, R. R. 5, Centralia 2 years
Ralph L. Nichols, Hebron 3 years
J. George Smith, Oswego 2 years
Forestry K. Starr Chester, Technical Advisor, Alton Box Board Company,
P. 0. Box 276, Alton 1 year
A. C. Foley, T. A. Foley Lumber Company, Paris 3 years
Lorenz F. Tammen, Midwest Soil Testing Service, Box 168, Danforth 2 years
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Horticulture (Food Crops)
Frank Chatten, R. R. 2, Route 2h, Quincy 2 years
George DeVries, DeVries Farm, 3560 W. 99^ Street, Evergreen Park 1 year L. A. Floyd, D.D.S., Bradford Bank Bldg., Greenville 2 years
Charles E. Geise, Manager, Agricultural Research Department, California
Packing Corporation, P. 0. Box 89, Rochelle 2 years
Ed Ridgway, Manager, Ridgway Farms and Greenhouses, P. 0. Box 87,
Herrin 1 year
Horticulture (Floriculture, Ornamentals) Walter E. Ahrens, Danville Gardens, 1307 Cleary Avenue, Danville 2 years Harris H. Blixen, Woodlawn Gardens, 1*407 St. Louis St., Edwardsville 2 years George N. Corrigan, Capitol Florist Supply Co., 928 East Adams,
Springfield 3 years
John Tures, 1500 Lee St., DesPlaines (Matt Tures Sons Nursery,
R. R. 1, Box 313-A, Roselle) 1 year
B. 0. Warren, Warren's Turf Nursery, 8400 W. 111th St., Palos Park 2 years
General Committee
Harvey J. Schweitzer, Agricultural Economics
H. V. Deffehbaugh, Agricultural Engineering
Martin Burrus, Agronomy
Lloyd Hanna, Animal Science
Ralph L. Nichols, Dairy Science
A. C. Foley, Forestry
L. A. Floyd, Horticulture
Joseph Ackerman, Managing Director, Farm Foundation, 600 South
Michigan Ave., Chicago 5 - at large
Paul C. Johnson, Editor, Prairie Farmer, 1230 West Washington Blvd.,
Chicago 7 - at large
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U. Of I. Veterinarians List Profitable Health Tips For Feeder Cattle
URBANA-- Improper buying, transporting and handling of feeder cattle not only affect the health of cattle, but slash the farmer's profits, according to University of Illinois veterinarians.
Doctors J. R. Pickard and J. K. Winkler state that profits depend largely upon buying healthy feeder cattle and preventing sickness
The veterinarians recommend buying healthy cattle just off the farm or ranch. Cattle that have been on the road or in the market for long periods may be weakened, exposed to disease and slow to get on feed. Also, calves showing nasal discharge, diarrhea or roughened hair- coats may be unhealthy.
Doctors Pickard and Winkler stress buying cattle of cne ori- gin. Research has proved that certain diseases run in certain herds. Thus the chance of introducing new diseases to your livestock increases when you buy from more than one herd.
The veterinarians feel that it is important to buy and move cattle during good weather so that the animals will not become chilled and susceptible to disease.
Stresses caused by shipping can be avoided, they say, by pre- venting conditions that cause overcrowding, fatigue and disruption of watering and feeding habits. Trucks or cars used for shipping should be disinfected, and the areas where the animals are unloaded should be sanitary.
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During the first two weeks the cattle are on the farm, they should be observed, carefully and handled only when absolutely necessary, Because handling may cause excitement and further weakening, such opera- tions as dehorning and castration should be postponed for at least two weeks.
If animals seem depressed, breathe rapidly and have diarrhea or nasal discharge, they should be isolated until a veterinarian can examine them.
The veterinarian can also give vaccinations for IBR or red nose, blackleg and malignant edema if these diseases exist in the area Vaccination against leptospirosis may be necessary if the newly pur- chased animals have been exposed to carrier animals, including swine.
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U. Of I. Livestock Marketing Conference, October 14
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture will serve as host to livestock marketing personnel at a special conference on Saturday, October 14. A program has been arranged that will be of special interest to livestock buyers, commission men, local market operators and others engaged in the livestock market business.
Those arriving early can visit the University swine and beef farms. Animal scientists will be on hand to report what they are doing.
The formal program gets under way at 10 a.m. in room 135 Ani- mal Sciences Laboratory. O. B. Ross, head of the animal science depart- ment, will report on the influence of feeding and breeding on meat pro- duction. A. G. Mueller, U. of I. agricultural economist, will report on returns from various cattle -feeding programs. B. C. Breidenstein, head of the meats division, will discuss differences in beef carcass
values.
During the lunch hour, M. B. Parsons, U. of I. Bureau of Busi- ness Management, will speak on "A Business Personality for Greater Volume." In the afternoon session, B. R. Knister, Federal-State Live- stock Market News Service, will discuss interior market reporting in Illinois. A. G. Madsen, assistant in agricultural economics, will re- port on price and consist differences in Illinois hog markets. T. A. Hieronymus, professor of agricultural marketing, will discuss the impact of current government farm programs on the livestock business.
M. B. Kirtley, extension livestock marketing economist, in- vites all those engaged in the livestock marketing business to attend. The conference has been arranged for Saturday to accommodate many who could not attend during the week.
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Hessian Flies Threaten Some Sections
URBANA — High Hessian fly populations in parts of Illinois may reduce yields of susceptible wheat varieties seeded early this fall, according to University of Illinois entomologist H. B. Petty.
The Illinois Natural History Survey pinpoints the west- southwestern and the southwestern sections of the state as trouble areas, Petty says.
There's also potential danger in the southeastern and east- southeastern sections.
While Hessian fly populations may be low in other sections, Petty says that farmers can prevent a build-up this fall by following control recommendations. And a fall build-up will lead to a larger spring generation and more severe damage, Petty warns.
tHere are Petty' s recommendations for controlling He-s-eian flies.. 1. Destroy all volunteer wheat by mid-September. 2. When seeding early, use resistant varieties (Dual, Monon or Ponca) if they are adapted to your area.
3. If you do use a variety susceptible to Hessian flies, seed on or after the recommended seeding day. For the recommended seeding date in your county, see your farm adviser.
4. If you do seed susceptible varieties early, use the sys- temic insecticide phorate. Apply 10 pounds of 10 percent granules per acre with a grass-seeder attachment at fall seeding. Follow label pre- cautions when working with this material. Petty explains that it is toxic to warm-blooded animals, including man.
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Proposed Change In Federal Milk Order Sound Economics
URBANA — The proposed change in the Chicago area federal milk marketing order is sound economics, a University of Illinois dairy mar- keting economist believes.
R. W. Bartlett points out that the suggested new pricing for- mula affects only milk going into manufactured dairy products. This new price would be based on Wisconsin and Minnesota manufacturing plant prices rather than some formula based on butter and milk powder prices.
The proposed market order change would improve prices of milk previously going into some manufacturing uses. This milk has usually been priced below its real value in recent years, Bartlett points out. The change would probably have little if any effect on the prices con- sumers pay for the dairy products made from this milk, he concludes.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wheat Sedimentation Test Will Not Affect Illinois Growers
URBANA- -Illinois farmers and grain dealers are not likely to be affected by the recently announced quality premiums for hard wheat under the 1962 price support program, a University of Illinois grain marketing economist pointed out this week.
L. F. Stice points out that the premiums will be based on the quality of gluten in the wheat as determined by sedimentation tests The wheats with strong gluten have high sedimentation values, while those with weak gluten have low sedimentation values.
Past price support programs have provided for premiums on hard wheats based on the protein content of the wheat. But protein con- tent is not always an accurate measure of bread, wheat quality, because some high protein wheats have a weak gluten. High-quality bread wheats should have a strong gluten as well as a high protein content.
Stice reports that the sedimentation test is considered the best single measure of bread wheat quality, and this test can be made outside quality testing laboratories. It is made by adding water and lactic acid to flour ground from a small quantity of wheat and after a short time making sedimentation readings.
The sedimentation values range from 3 for very weak wheat up to about 70 for the strongest wheat. Although detailed tests have not been recorded for Illinois-grown hard wheat, the USDA samples have ranged from 20 to 30. Variety and climate determine the gluten strength, but in Illinois climate is the determining factor. Premiums under the 1962 price support program are likely to be for wheat that has sedimentation values of 40 or above.
Illinois hard wheats are not likely to be strong enough to command quality premiums. Since there will be no discounts for low- quality wheat, the program is not likely to affect Illinois farmers and grain dealers, Stice concludes.
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State 4-H Judging Team Works For National Contest
URBANA — Illinois' top four 4-H dairy judges join ranks next week for a practice judging tour through northern Illinois before re- presenting the state in the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Contest in Waterloo, Iowa, Oct. 2.
The four boys named to the state team are Ronald Boldt, 19, Seneca/ Larry Mohr, 17, Normal; Dale Schultz, 19, Peoria; and Don Freese, 19, Sullivan . They are survivors of an original group of more than 2,000 Illinois 4-H'ers who have worked to make this year's state judging
team.
Outstanding judging performances at the State 4-H Judging Con- test in Urbana in July and at this year's Illinois State Fair earned the boys a berth on the state team.
Coach Jerry Cash, University of Illinois extension dairyman, says the boys will get together on Sept. 27 for three days of dairy judging practice on a number of northern Illinois farms.
The team then will compete in the national contest on Oct. 2 at the National Dairy Cattle Congress in Waterloo and later at the In- ternational Livestock Exposition in Chicago.
Last year Cash's Illinois team ranked second in the national contest and was the winning team at the International Livestock Exposi- tion.
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JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR RELEASE AFTER 7 P.M., CST, OCTOBER 2, 1961
Oregon Youth Wins FFA Award
WATERLOO, IOWA — Kenneth Long, 18, a member of the Oregon, 111., Future Farmers of America chapter, tonight won the nation's top FFA dairy farming award.
Kenneth received a $250 check from the Future Farmers of America Foundation during a presentation ceremony at the National Dairy Cattle Congress in Waterloo.
Three other farm boys received FFA Foundation checks of $200 each as regional winners of dairy farming awards. They are Marvin Becker, 21, of Berne, New York, member of the Berne-Knox Central High School FFA chapter? Larry Lawson, 19, Route 4, Louisa, Virginia: and Ron G. Slagle, 18, Route 1, Custer, Washington, member of the Lynden High School FFA chapter.
Each of the four winners previously had received $100 awards in state competition, and they shared a $250 travel fund to pay their travel expenses to Waterloo. More than 5,000 Future Farmers received medals during 1961 as dairy farming award winners in their local chap- ters, and the foundation gave 45 of the $100 state awards. The four honored at Waterloo were judged most outstanding of the entire group. The award is restricted to FFA members who were students of vocational agriculture attending high school during the current year.
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WLHrmfb 9/28/61
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Boxelder Bugs May Move In For Winter
URBANA — Fall is moving time for boxelder bugs. In fact, several may already have decided to make your home their winter resi- dence.
It's annual invasion time for boxelder bugs, according to
H. B. Petty, University of Illinois extension entomologist.
The bugs, black with reddish bands, are about 1/2 inch long when full grown. Their summer home is the female boxelder tree, and they dine heavily on seeds from the tree.
When the weather gets cooler, however, they make tracks for a
cozy home or pleasant garage. They move into foundation cracks and into
and under the clapboards and eaves, and from there they can work their
way directly into your happy home. During a warm winter day you may
see them sunning on foundations with a southern exposure. Or they may stake out a claim to your sun porch.
If you are looking forward to their visit, don't stock up on sweets and old clothing for them to munch. Boxelder bugs do not eat either food or cloth.
Removing female boxelder trees reduces the number of boxelder bugs, Petty said. Since this rather drastic control is too late for this fall's invasion, Petty suggests applying a 1/2 percent lindane spray or a 1/4 percent dieldrin spray to the point of run-off for a quick kill.
Apply either spray at one- to two-week intervals to the foundations and. sides of the building as well as in a strip three feet wide around it. Spraying boxelder tree trunks and the ground around the trees is also recommended. Do not spray children's play areas, Petty cautions.
Inside, Petty says to use your trusty vacuum cleaner to hunt down the bugs. But he warns that spraying in the house should be done carefully and only in severe cases. Use a pyrethrin household spray for quick knockdown and kill. It's important to follow the directions for using any insecticide to the letter, Petty said.
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IEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
IIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois 4-H Livestock Judging Team Named for Kansas City Contest
URBANA — Five Illinois 4-H Club members will compete in the 4-H livestock judging contest at the American Royal Livestock Show next week in Kansas City.
Donald Walker, University of Illinois livestock extension specialist and team coach, reports that team members include Gerald Anderson, Leland? Gerald Carroll, Brimfield; Harold Heck, Aledo? Ronnie McCaskill, Timewell; and Charles Rayburn, Bondville.
Four boys will compete in the contest next Friday, October 13, and one will make the trip as an alternate. The contest consists of placing rings of beef cattle, sheep and hogs and. giving reasons on one ring of each class of livestock.
This year's Illinois team has an enviable record to defend. Last year the Illinois team placed second, only one point behind the first-place team. In 1959 the team placed first.
This team will also compete at the 1961 International Live- stock Exposition in Chicago after Thanksgiving.
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Record Number Of College Of Agriculture Foreign Visitors
URBANA — A record number of foreign visitors took part in Uni- versity of Illinois College of Agriculture programs this summer, accord- ing to R. W. Jugenheimer, assistant dean.
The 150 visitors during June, July, August and September were from more than 40 countries on five continents.
These visitors participated in regularly scheduled College of Agriculture summer classes, short courses taught by college staff mem- bers and seminar discussion groups, and met individually with faculty members on special problems.
During the past ten years, the College of Agriculture has hosted more than 2,000 foreign visitors from 89 countries. L?st year it had 441 visitors from 64 countries, Jugenheimer said.
The University of Illinois ranks fifth among land-grant in- stitutions in training foreign visitors. The arrangements are made through the U. S. Department of Agriculture and the International Co- operation Administration.
Since 1951, more than 90 college staff members have done agri- cultural work overseas.
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Rust Present In Merion Bluegrass
URBANA — If your Merion bluegrass has had plenty of moisture and nitrogen fertilizer, don't be alarmed by rust areas, says University of Illinois plant pathologist M. P. Britton.
Many Illinois home owners are concerned when reddish-brown or yellow areas show up in their lawns. The villain is rust — close inspec- tion will show reddish-brown powdery blisters on the leaves. Rust has been prevalent in lawns making little or no growth mostly because of lack of water or fertilizer, says Britton. Although it's unsightly, rust won't kill well-established Merion bluegrass lawns.
Applying nitrogen fertilizer will produce new growth and lessen unsightly patches, but it won't kill the rust.
In heavily rusted lawns, Britton advises two or three applica- tions of actidione seven days apart. Apply this fungicide immediately according to label directions. Then follow this treatment with good grass management, including fertilizer, water if needed and correct mowing heights.
Don't be fooled into believing you can "mow your troubles
away," cautions Britton. Rust spores will be at work on the lower
leaves of the grass plant. But, remember, unless you're bothered with
the unsightly patches, rust won't kill Merion bluegrass if it's well
established and you're managing it properly.
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Know Your Mushrooms
URBANA — Abundant moisture and proper temperatures in Illinois have produced a bumper crop of mushrooms. Many front lawns provide an abundant and all-too-handy supply for the unsuspecting child or the unknowing adult.
Be sure about mushrooms, says University of Illinois mycolo- gist D. P. Rogers. Have them identified by an expert or buy them from the store. Your life is worth more than a plate of mushrooms.
One good mowing will no doubt take care of mushrooms in your
lawn, says University of Illinois plant pathologist M. P. Britton, since
weather and moisture were "just right" for the present crop.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCES
Urbana, Illinois
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
U. Of I. Agricultural Industries Forum, January 30-31
URBANA — The fourth University of Illinois Agricultural In- dustries Forum will be held January 30-31, 1962, Harold G. Halcrow, head of the agricultural economics department, announced this week.
The opening general session will feature outstanding speakers discussing economic growth for local communities. Speakers scheduled to appear are Vernon Ruttan, professor of agricultural economics at Purdue University; Anthony Downs, Real Estate Research Corporation, Chicago; and Mrs. Aryness Joy Wickens, economic adviser in the U. S. Department of Labor.
H. E. Gulley, U. of I. professor of speech, and A. v. Nalbandov, professor of animal physiology, will address other general sessions.
Special sessions for those interested in marketing dairy products, livestock, grain, poultry and eggs, feed, fertilizer and farm machinery and equipment are scheduled on Tuesday afternoon and Wednes- day morning. Outstanding speakers are planned for these sessions.
Meals and rooms will be available in Garner House at the men residence halls. For a copy of the complete program, write to Depart- ment of Agricultural Economics, 305 Mumford Hall, Urbana. Everyone who attended last year's Forum will receive a copy of the program in December.
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Set New Termination Notice Period For Farm Tenants
URBANA — Illinois farm owners and tenants must now observe a new termination period for certain kinds of farm leases, a University of Illinois professor of agricultural law pointed out this week.
N. G. P. Krausz reports that, for cash-rent and crop-share leases not in writing, the landlord must deliver a written notice to quit not less than four months before the end of the lease year. So, for a lease beginning March 1, the notice to terminate must be given on or before the last day of October.
The new provision in the law apparently does not apply to livestock-share leases, Krausz points out. So the old law still stands for these leases and. only a 60-day notice is required to terminate the lease.
The law provides for the following form by which landowners will notify tenants: "To A. B. : You are hereby notified that I have elected to terminate your lease of the farm premises now occupied by you, being (here describe the premises) , and you are hereby further no- tified to quit and deliver up possession of the same to me at the end of the lease year, the last day of such year being (here insert the last day of the lease year.)"
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Wild Tomatoes Aid Mechanical Harvest Development
URBANA — Wild tomatoes, which contain more than twice as much acid as their cultivated cousins, may well ease the tomato industry out of a dilemma brought on by mechanical harvesting.
A. E. Thompson, University of Illinois horticulturist, ex- plains the problem this way: Mechanically picking tomatoes for process- ing is nearly a reality. But to get high yields from the tomato plant in one harvest means leaving the tomato on the vine longer than with hand harvest. The longer the fruit remains on the vine after ripening, the greater the loss of acidity.
Tomato processors are concerned. Why? Many have lost large amounts of money through spoilage and reconstituting tomato products to meet minimum acidity standards. And, Thompson points out, acid can't be added artificially because the Pure Food and Drug Administration considers it adulteration.
So, to lick the low-acidity problem, University of Illinois
horticulturists introduced the wild tomato with high acid content.
Crosses were made to standard varieties, and selections containing high
acidity were crossed back to standard varieties to improve size and
other horticultural characteristics.
At the present time, U. of I. horticulturists are breeding lines producing tomatoes with 50 percent more acid. Thompson reports that from research now in progress horticulturists hope to determine the inheritance of high acidity and to improve the methods of selecting and breeding for this high-acidity character, so important to the tomato industry.
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FFA Foundation Donor Honored
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI — Kraft Foods Company, Chicago, is one of five firms honored at the Future Farmers of America 34th national con- vention last night for their long-time support of this farm boys' organi- zation.
These five firms received plaques of appreciation for their 15-year support of the Future Farmers of America Foundation, Inc. The Foundation provides the funds for the FFA's program of incentive awards. More than $180,000 is budgeted for such awards each year. More than 300 business and industrial concerns, organizations and individuals sup- port the foundation by annual contributions.
The FFA Foundation was established late in 1944. The donors honored this year have made annual contributions toward the awards pro- gram since 1946. As donors to the Foundation, they give their funds "without strings attached." All prizes and awards are given in the name of the Foundation rather than by a specific donor. Control of the Foundation rests in a board of trustees composed entirely of men who are working in the field of vocational education in agriculture,
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY A.M., OCTOBER 13, 1961
Illinois FFA Chapters Receive National Awards
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI — National recognition went to four Illi- nois FFA Chapters at the 34th annual national Future Farmers of America convention.
The Champaign, Maroa and Williamsf ield Chapters received the "Gold Emblem" rating. The Sycamore Chapter, captured the "Silver Emblem" award.
The Gold Emblem award is based on the chapter's outstanding activities during the 1960-61 school year. Seventy-six chapters re- ceived this award, in a special presentation last night (Oct. 12.) Earlier in the Day, Silver Emblem awards were presented to 48 chapters, and Bronze Emblem to nine chapters.
The Future Farmers of America has approximately 9,000 local
chapters, with associations in 49 states and Puerto Rico. State entries
in the national contest depend on state FFA membership. Staff members
of the Agricultural Education Branch in the U. S. Office of Education,
Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, Washington, D. C, served
as judges.
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Researchers Study Water Use
Each acre of Illinois land receives annually from 3,000 to 5,000 tons of water. About 80 percent of this water returns to the atmosphere, most of it in the form of evaporation.
University of Illinois soil scientists are looking for prac- tical methods to reduce evaporation losses from the soil. Then water would rarely be problem in crop production, since most Illinois soils hold enough water to meet moisture losses through plant leaves, said M. B. Russell, University of Illinois agronomist.
Studies at the University of Illinois show that increasing the number of plants per acre did not greatly affect total water use when there was an ample water supply. As the plant population in- creased, transpiration losses — moisture lost from the plant surface — were greater, but they were largely balanced by smaller evaporation losses, explained Russell.
But when the soil surface had been dry for some time, evapo- ration was already so low that it could not be reduced much more. In- creasing the plant population under such conditions increased water use to the point of becoming critical, Russell said.
Under normal conditions, 50 percent or more of the water lost during the growing season is due to evaporation from the soil surface. Cutting down on evaporation would mean more efficient use of both summer rainfall and subsoil-stored water. Reducing water losses in this manner would spare Illinois farmers some of the moisture manage- ment problems that were common in some northwest Illinois areas this summer.
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Homecoming Breakfast Scheduled For Ag Judging Teams
URBANA — Judging team members who have represented the Univer- sity of Illinois College of Agriculture will gather here for their first homecoming breakfast Saturday, October 21.
More than 600 students have been on the livestock, meats, dairy, poultry and dairy products teams during the past 50 years. Early response to the invitations indicates that more than 200 may return for homecoming.
Beginning at 9 a.m., the team members will gather at the Uni- versity YMCA for breakfast. O. B. Ross, head of the animal science department, will serve as master of ceremonies. Earl Hughes, Woodstock, a member of the University board of trustees, will be the main speaker. He was a member of the 1928 national champion dairy judging team.
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Technical Foresters To Meet At Dixon Springs
URBANA — Field trips to visit forestry experiments will high- light the 50th meeting of the Illinois Technical Forestry Association on October 26 and 27 at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station of the University of Illinois.
Tours will be conducted by A. R. Gilmore, in charge of for- estry research projects at the Pope county station. The foresters will see growth of loblolly pine as related to soils and spacing, growth of white, red and jack pines in southern Illinois, and. growth of shortleaf pine as related to degree of thinning and soil moisture.
Visiting foresters also will see areas marked for harvest, being harvested and already harvested in pine pulpwood thinning opera- tions in the Shawnee National Forest in the vicinity of the Dixon Springs Station.
L. E. "Buck" Sawyer, director of conservation for the Midwest
Coal Producers Institute, Terre Haute, Indiana, will discuss "Forestry
in Southern Illinois in the Early ' 30's" at the Thursday evening banquet
at the Station.
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Illinois 4-H Poultry Judging Team Named
URBANA — Four top Illinois 4-H members will represent the state at the Interstate Invitational 4-H Poultry Judging Contest Novem- ber 25 in Chicago.
This event is held during the week of the International Live- stock Exposition.
The four, winners of the final poultry elimination contest held at the University of Illinois, are Jim Fulkerson, Route 1, Man- ville; Don Collom, Ridge Farm; Glen Osborn, Hartsburg; and Arlyn McCormick, Shelbyville. First alternate is Leslie Beall, Route 2, Streator, and second alternate is Virginia Bohlen, Route 2, Moweaqua. Coach Sam F. Ridlen, U. of I. extension poultryman, is the team coach.
The contest tests the 4-H1 ers' skills in judging live birds, and dressed fryers and turkeys, candling eggs, grading broken-out eggs and presenting oral reasons in production classes.
Last year the Illinois team took second place at the Inter- state Invitational 4-H Poultry Judging Contest.
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Illinois Future Farmers Attend National Convention
KANSAS CITY MISSOURI — Illinois farm boys wearing the symbolic FFA blue and gold jackets compete for awards at the 34th annual national Future Farmers of America Convention here this week.
Chuck Rayburn, Champaign, participates in the central regional FFA public speaking contest.
Fifteen Illinois future farmers are looking forward to re- ceiving the American Farmer Degree. This is the highest degree in the organization. They are Dale Wayne Allen, Ashton? Jerry Dean Barth, Minonk; George Alvin Brown, Jr., Waverly? Gary S. Dameron, Towanda; Archie L. Devore, Mulberry Grove? Lynn Laible, Toluca? Lyle E. Moscher, Lanark; Lloyd Lee Nash, Martinsville? Daryl Franklin Pfoutz, Franklin Grove? Robert W. Post, Crescent City? Kenneth C. Steinmann, Waterloo? Edward Stokes, El Paso; Kermit L. Vollmar, Canton? Samuel E. Weston, Rossville? and Bill Wilson, Champaign.
Arthur L. Schick, Sterling, is one of 25 vocational agricul- ture teachers who will receive the Honorary American Farmer Degree. He has taught 25 years and has had 68 teams winning the Gold Emblem, or first placings, in state judging contests. Five of these teams repre- sented Illinois in national contests, winning two Gold Emblem, two Silver Emblem and one Bronze Emblem ratings. His FFA chapter has been rated superior for 11 years. He has produced 29 State Farmers, one American Farmer and two State FFA officers.
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Three members will play in the 1961 national FFA Band: Gary Bardelmeier, Routel, Marine? Jerry Hoult, Route 3, Chrisman; and Jerry Theobald, Route 1, Buffalo. The colorful national band provides music at various times throughout the convention.
Three Illinois judging teams will compete for national honors
From Sterling, Dennis Eversole, Allen Shank, and Gary Hassel- bacher, coached by Arthur Schick, will judge meat and meat products.
Roger Venhuizen, James DeWall, Paul Gilbert and. alternate, Don Janssen, Polo, coached by Keith McGuire, will judge poultry.
A Clinton team of Richard Sams, Larry Martin, Eugene Murphy
and Richard Griffin, alternate, will judge livestock. Clyde Fry is
their coach.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
Special To Selected Publications Floricutural Sales Profitable In Mass Markets
URBAKA— Many flowers and flowering plants can be marketed profitably through mass market outlets, says a University of Illinois marketing specialist.
Ross A. Kelly points out that in a recent study customers accepted such stores as a supermarket and a variety store as outlets for buying the type of florl- cultural products displayed there. These were various small potted plants and small bunches of cut flowers.
The results showed that the sale of f loricultural products competed favorably with sale of other items in the stores.
Holidays and special occasions had the largest effect in increasing weekly sales. Quality was also an important sales factor in all f loricultural products at each outlet.
These findings suggest that to encourage "everyday" use of flowers and plants, an adequate display of good-quality merchandise should be maintained at all times. To interest consumers and to stimulate repeat purchases, a selection of var- ious kinds, varieties and colors of plants and flowers should be displayed. Changing the kinds of plants on display as well as using specific "holiday" plants is an ad- visable merchandising technique.
Other details on research in marketing f loricultural products at variety
stores and supermarkets are available in University of Illinois College of Agriculture
Bulletin 675, "Floricultural Sales in Mass Market Outlets," by R. A. Kelly. Copies
are available from 112 Mumford Hall, University of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Growing Market For Medium-Finish Beef; Prime Beef Demand Limited
URBANA — Mass merchandising by food retailers has created the broadest market for beef with medium finish, a University of Illinois livestock marketing economist reports.
M. B. Kirtley points out that nearly 90 percent of all retail food sales are handled by chain and independent stores with centralized buying and merchandising programs. These firms look for a product that carries consistent quality from week to week and will be the same in al! stores under the same management.
Most consumers prefer beef from cattle with only a moderate amount of finish. So the broadest market has developed for cattle grading high good to low choice and weighing from 1,000 to 1,100 pounds
Kirtley believes these mass merchandising programs have bene- fited the entire beef cattle industry by expanding the market for beef. Consumption per person is near an all-time record high.
The market for highly finished prime beef has become more specialized. The main outlets are hotels and restaurants, Kirtley re- ports. But these outlets also tend to be moving toward the pattern of the retail trade.
A survey made by University of Illinois marketing economists in Chicago showed that less than 10 percent of the hotels and restaurani used only prime beef. Only about one-third used any prime beef. About 90 percent used some choice beef. Restaurant and hotel meat buyers are also concerned with waste from excessive finish.
Producers of heavy cattle with high finish face a market that can easily be oversupplied, Kirtley points out. The cattle feeder look- ing for the broadest, most dependable market will market cattle with mod- erate weight and finish that satisfies the demand of the most buyers.
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Research Shows No Advantage For Stilbestrol In Dairy Herds
URBANA — Dairy research indicates that stilbestrol has no ef- fect on either production or feed utilization in dairy cows. Recent reports also indicate no advantage for stilbestrol in fattening dry cows for market or in stimulating growth rates in dairy heifers.
University of Illinois dairy scientist Leo Fryman points out that small amounts of stilbestrol — 10 to 15 milligrams per cow per day — can be fed with the grain mixture with no adverse effects on conception, gestation or estrus cycle.
However, feeding such low levels of the growth stimulant will not boost production or feed utilization efficiency. And cows fed higher levels of stilbestrol in a Kansas study were subject to abortion.
Fryman says Cornell University studies show that stilbestrol will stimulate weight gains in dry cows. But the research also indi- cates that the practice is not profitable.
University of Colorado research shows that safe amounts of stilbestrol will not stimulate growth in dairy heifers. The Colorado researchers fed 10 milligrams of stilbestrol per day with no growth- stimulating effects. Fryman says higher levels of stilbestrol may cause breeding problems in open heifers.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scientists Fight Fire Blight
URBANA — Plant breeders in the University of Illinois horti- culture department continue to fight a relentless battle against fire blight — the scourge of the commercial pear industry.
Because of the disease, it is almost impossible to grow high- quality pears in Illinois on a commercial basis, reports H. C. Barrett, in charge of much of the pear research conducted at the University of
Illinois.
At present there is no good chemical control for fire blight,
so the only practical method of combating the disease is to grow re- sistant varieties. And this is a long-time process, Barrett points out. So far, a variety called Farmingdale — a seedling pear — offers one of the best sources of resistance, but the quality of the fruit is poor, so the variety has no commercial value.
To enhance the quality of pears and yet combine fire-blight resistance means cross-breeding. More than 10,000 seedlings from 160 controlled crosses have been planted in the orchard and nurseries at Urbana, where the most promising types are being selected. Over 30 selections combining fire blight resistance with desirable fruit and tree characteristics will be observed and tested further, reports Barrett
As in most research, there is no quick or easy answer. But to date results have been encouraging, and it seems reasonable to ex- pect that fire-blight-resistant, high-quality pears will be grown in Illinois before too many years.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Youth Competes In Tractor Operators' Contest At Texas State Fair
URBANA — Illinois is sending her best young tractor operator to Dallas, Texas, to compete in the 5th Annual Central and Western 4-H Tractor Operators' Contest October 15-17.
Terry Warren, 20, Route 4, Sullivan, Hopes to drive his trac- tor ahead of 22 other state champions to victory in the regional contest held during the Texas State Fair in Dallas.
Young Warren won the right to represent Illinois by topping county, district and state contests. He proved his expertness in trac- tor operation and maintenance as he won the state championship at the Illinois State Fair August 18.
Warren has had plenty of experience in driving a tractor on his dad's 900-acre farm in Moultrie County. A full-time farmer, spend- ing some 1,200 hours doing tractor field work, Warren is also president of the Moultrie County 4-H Federation.
The operators' contest includes a written examination, a practical trouble-shooting test, tractor safety and driving tests with two-and four-wheeled vehicles attached. Scoring is on a penalty point system, with the low-scoring individual the winner. Trophies will be awarded to the four high individuals in the Dallas event.
Contestants and their coaches arrive in Dallas on Sunday,
visit the fair and participate in contest events on Monday and Tuesday.
The driving events are scheduled for Tuesday, October 17, and awards
will be given at a banquet that evening.
The Standard Oil Foundation, Inc., is sponsoring Warren's award trip.
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EWS FROM AGRICULTURE
INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Government Farm Program Will Affect Livestock Business
URBANA — The present government farm programs will affect the livestock business in the months ahead, a University of Illinois agri- cultural economist has pointed out.
T. A. Hieronymus believes that the 1962 spring pig crop will
show only a small increase — less than usual for the current phase of the
hog cycle.
Cattle feeders may finish their cattle to lighter weights,
particularly if they must feed corn eligible for the $1.20 support price
The longer range government policy will have a greater effect
on the livestock industry. Should the 1962 corn support be raised to
encourage more participation in the feed grain program, then feeding
would be curtailed. To boost feed grain use, price must be kept down,
Hieronymus emphasizes.
Curtailed feeding could mean reduced volume through livestock
market channels, higher unit costs and reduced profits.
Present high costs of the program will require government
policy-makers to choose one of two courses. Either more stringent
production controls must be imposed, or prices must be determined on the
market. The 1961 and 1962 programs make it more difficult to return to
the free market, he concludes.
Hieronymus spoke before a conference of livestock marketing
personnel on the U. of I. campus this past week end.
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Veterinarians Warn Of Dangers With New Crops
URBANA — An open bin of beans, wheat or corn can be as deadly to livestock as an epidemic and so costly that the owner could lose every cent of profit he expected from harvesting, warn University of Illinois veterinarians.
Each year veterinarians relate cases that illustrate just how determined cattle can be. They will wander through broken fences, open unlocked, gates and walk a mile seeking the delicacies of harvest time.
In some cases fences are in good repair and the farmer will feel safe in piling grain crops in the barnyard. But somehow the cattle get into these crops, gorge themselves and die.
Various grains react differently in an animal, according to
Dr. J. K. Winkler, extension veterinarian. Dry beans will expand to
several times their original size. If the animal has gorged itself,
this expansion can rupture the digestive tract, causing an agonizing
death.
Death from overeating wheat, corn and other grains is caused
by toxins or poisons produced by chemical changes in the animal's
stomach, Dr. Winkler said. Bloat can occur in any case, he added.
Veterinarians call this tragedy bovine founder or acute in- digestion. The symptoms are overloading of the stomach, gas formation or bloat, poisoning and agonizing pain due to swelling of stomach and intestines. The result is death due to bloat, absorption of poison or rupture.
Once signs appear, chances for saving the animal are reduced, Dr. Winkler said.
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Ag Winter Short Course Announced
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture's Winter Short Course is set for February 5 to March 16, 1962, according to Warren Wessels, assistant to the dean.
The winter short course, to be held on the Urbana campus, offers young farmers an opportunity to attend college classes for six weeks of study, Wessels said. The courses present up-to-date information on farm problems and techniques in a fast-changing agriculture.
Most of the students are young farmers who wish to expand their knowledge about agriculture. Anyone 18 years old or older may apply? ages have ranged up to 65 years. Women also may attend.
Besides attending discussion and laboratory sessions, short course students take part in many campus activities.
Short course costs range from $198 to $238, including tuition, fees, books and supplies, housing and meals.
A number of $100 scholarships are provided by the Illinois
Future Farmers of America Foundation and member banks of the Illinois
Bankers Association.
Dean Louis B. Howard, College of Agriculture, says: "Our Win- ter Short Course provides a fine opportunity for young farmers to keep abreast of recent developments in agriculture through 21 interesting and helpful courses."
Last year's enrollment of 102 was a sharp increase from 84 in 1960 and 76 in 1959. Forty-four Illinois counties and the state of Pennsylvania were represented at the 1961 Short Course.
For more information, write Warren Wessels, Assistant to the Dean, 104 Mumford Hall, College of Agriculture, Urbana, Illinois.
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FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, OCTOBER 20, 1961
Hannah Tells How Law Protects Livestock Owners
URBANA--Law protects livestock owners and the public by com- bating indifference, ignorance, unconcern and vested interests, Prof. Harold Hannah told conferees attending the Illinois Conference and Ex- tension Short Course for Veterinarians. The two-day conference began yesterday at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.
Hannah, professor of veterinary law at the U. of I., speci- fically mentioned five protective law functions.
The first, he said, is the enforcement and control of local measures. Quarantine, isolation, use and movement of animals and de- struction of animals and property are all tools that the law employs, Hannah explained.
Another function is to improve legislation on animal disease.
Hannah cited the 1955 slaughterhouse law, which was replaced by a meat
and poultry inspection law in 1959. He described the 1959 law as being
broader and meshed with federal and municipal inspection laws.
A third function of law is to improve regulatory process and thus avoid situations like the cranberry controversy. Explained Hannah, "Law attempts to blend the interests of scientists, professionals, pro- ducers and handlers without leaving the public holding the bag."
Law also makes full and proper use of treaty power by develop- ing sound federal orders and import-export restrictions. The purpose of these restrictions, he said, is to protect the public without hamper- ing trade.
A fifth function is to improve the administrative structure for disease control and public health activity. Administration begins at the township level and continues through the county, municipality and state. Superimposed on this is federal administration.
This complicated structure sometimes sacrifices logic and frequently results in duplication, Hannah said.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ten Illinois 4-H'ers Win National Safety Congress Trips
CHICAGO — Ten Illinois 4-H'ers are attending National Safety Congress this week, October 16 to 20, because of their outstanding work in 4-H safety activities.
More than 250 youth delegates representing Future Farmers of America, 4-H, Farm Bureau Young People, Grange Youth and Farmers Union Youth are at the sessions, according to University of Illinois 4-H specialist William Stone.
The Illinois winners are sponsored by the Country Mutual In- surance Company. Winners from Illinois are Darleen Wennlund, Lafox; Lowell Wishop, Route 3, Rockford; Diana Sperry, Route 2, Macomb; James Conway, Route 1, Berwick; Carolyn Coffey, odell; Marjorie Pruitt, Route 1, Raymond? Gordon Broom, 609 E. Vine Street, Greenville; Joyce Walter, Metropolis; Donnie Beal, Route 2, Mt Vernon; and Charles Boes, Route 1, Danville.
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NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE f
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS V
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stalk Rot Strikes Corn
URBANA — Stalk rot, described as the worst in years, means additional harvesting headaches this year to Illinois farmers. The sooner they get into the field, the less their harvesting losses will be, warn University of Illinois agronomist Bill Pardee and. plant pathol- ogist Mai Shurtleff.
Stalks have been disintegrating for some time now. With this progressively worsening situation, any wind at all will increase losses, says Pardee. In many fields one-fifth or more of the stalks are broken. About two-thirds of the fields in the state now show 10 percent or more breakage. Damage is heaviest in central Illinois, but fields in all areas of the state show some damage from stalk rot, says Pardee. As a result of disintegrated stalks, farmers will have more than the usual headaches with clogging pickers. So it will take a little more time. A man can't win against a machine. The farmer who stops to unclog it will still be here after harvest.
Shurtleff reports that Gibberella appears to be causing most of the stalk rot. This type causes a more complete collapse than other types. Apparently growing conditions were just right this year. Early growth; high fertility, especially large amounts of nitrogen in relation to other elements? high population of corn plants— all these factors
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coupled with dry weather in August and early September set the stage for the stalk rot invasion. Any factor that causes stress tends to increase the possibility of stalk rot, Shurtleff reports.
And if stalk rot wasn't enough, central Illinois farmers report much "down corn" but find no evidence of stalk disintegration — the tell- tale sign of stalk rot. Pardee says much of this damage is due to rapid growth which produced a weak stalk. When hot, dry weather and winds from hurricane Car la struck, the corn broke. Much of the corn broken by strong winds will be difficult to harvest, since it didn't mature properly. In many cases cobs have split and shredded. Picking will be hazardous under these conditions. Most of the weak- join ted corn hit by Carla's winds were thickly populated plantings of 20,000 or more plants per acre.
So whether it's stalk rot or weak stalks coupled with hot, dry weather that's causing down corn, the longer it's left, the worse corn harvesting will be, warns Shurtleff. It will pay to get into the field as soon as the corn is dry enough — 21 percent or lower, depending on facilities for drying and storage — Pardee adds.
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCES
Urbana, Illinois
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
U. Of I. Farm Structures Day Set For Nov. 16
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
URBANA — Reports on experimental precast concrete buildings and slatted floors for livestock shelters highlight this year's Univer- sity of Illinois Farm Structures Day program Thursday, Nov. 16.
Other high- interest features of the program include discus- sions on long-span wood construction, lumber rigid frames, coated fiber- board lining for wet corn storage and applications of concrete for livestock buildings.
Program chairman Don Jedele, U. of I. agricultural engineer, points out that slatted floors for livestock buildings are receiving a lot of attention throughout the state.
U. of I. researchers have been experimenting with wire mesh
and concrete and wood slat flooring for swine. Results of this research
will be presented during the Farm Structures Day program.
Of equal interest will be the report on the new coated fiber- board lining for wet corn storage. The new liner is a heavy, water- proof fiberboard coated on each side with a layer of polyethylene film and aluminum foil. Researchers say the material is easy to cut, crease or bend to fit the interior of any crib or bin.
Registration for Farm Structures Day begins at 8:30 a.m. The program starts at 9:10. A registration fee of $5.00 will cover the cost of lunch and program proceedings.
All lumber and building dealers and others interested in farm buildings are invited to attend.
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Farmers May Not Favor Milk Marketing Quotas, Economist Believes
URBANA — Proposals to establish a milk marketing quota for each producer may not have the support of a majority of the milk producers themselves, a University of Illinois dairy marketing economist believes.
R. W. Bartlett cites the results of a recent survey among Michigan milk producers. This survey showed that 63 percent of the mem- bers opposed quotas and 71 percent opposed freezing of production bases. On another question, 59 percent opposed transferring or selling bases.
The most common reasons these milk producers gave for opposing a quota plan was that it would hurt small farmers and. new farmers. Those who opposed quotas or freezing of bases believed that such moves would only help dairymen who were well established or who had money to invest.
The proposed quota system would attempt to raise prices by setting a quota for each dairy farm. Those who produced more than their quotas would receive a very low price for this milk. Bartlett believes that raising prices through a strict quota system would result in in- creased use of margarine in place of butter, increased use of mellorine in place of ice cream, more use of chicken and other low-priced meats in place of cheese, stepped-up use of filled milk in place of evaporated milk and substitution of lower cost fresh and sterile concentrated milk for fresh whole milk.
Such a plan might raise prices temporarily, but in the long run the result would be lower incomes for dairy farmers, Bartlett con- cludes.
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Students From 24 Countries Attend College Of Agriculture
URBANA — Students from 24 foreign countries are College of Agriculture undergraduates this semester, according to Associate Dean Karl E. Gardner, University of Illinois.
Thirty students from England, Israel, West Germany, Turkey, Korea, Vietnam, Nicaragua, El Salvador, China, Czechoslovakia, Aden, Nigeria, Jamaica, Tanganyika, Japan and other countries have enrolled.
This is the first year the college has had this number of foreign students as undergraduates, Gardner said.
About 1,000 foreign students are attending the University of Illinois. Almost 44,000 students from other lands will study at col- leges in the United States this year, Gardner reports.
The agricultural students are aiming for college degrees in such fields as food technology, home economics education, dairy, forest production, agricultural science and general agriculture or home eco- nomics, Gardner said.
Since these students come from such different backgrounds and. types of agriculture, students from Illinois can learn about foreign customs, laws, agricultural trade and geography by visiting with a foreign classmate.
About 50 foreign graduate students at the University are doing
advanced work in agriculture.
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Elect Officers For U. Of I. Veterinary Alumni Association
URBANA — A Blomington veterinarian was elected president of the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Asso- ciation during its annual meeting Friday.
Dr. Peter Smith of Bloomington will serve as president for the 1961-62 term. Other newly elected officers are Dr. Arnold Taft, Olney, president-elect; Dr. H. P. Hobson, Carrollton, treasurer; and Dr. Erwin Small, Champaign, re-elected executive secretary.
Dr. J. D. Kerr, Decatur, was elected to the executive board, while Dr. L. C. Helper, Champaign, will serve as liaison officer between the Veterinary Alumni Association and the University of Illinois Alumni Association.
After the meeting, 125 alumni and faculty attended a dinner- dance at the Urbana Golf and Country Club.
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Group Plan Could Revolutionize Veterinary Practice
URBANA — The group veterinary practice plan proposed at the recent University of Illinois Conference for Veterinarians could rev- olutionize the role of today's practicing veterinarian.
These changes would definitely benefit the livestock owner, according to Dr. J. F. Knappenberger. Formerly a practicing veterinarian in Nebraska, Dr. Knappenberger is now president of Haver-Lockhart Labo-
Iratories in Kansas City, Mo. Dr. Knappenberger ' s plan calls for each member of the group to specialize in one type of animal. The men would maintain their own mixed animal practices, but would be free to consult with the specialist.
I "Specialization is absolutely necessary, " Dr. Knappenberger
explained, "because the field of veterinary medicine is so broad that no man can possibly know everything." Each veterinarian would maintain his own office, but major work, such as surgery, would be performed at the central office and clinic. This office would be equipped with finer facilities than the individual veterinarian can afford, Dr. Knappenberger said, for the group would consolidate their capital.
The clinic or hospital would house a diagnostic laboratory, a pharmacy and a business office with technologists trained to do this work. This would free the veterinarian to improve his ability through
constant study.
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Advantages of specialization and better facilities should not cost the livestock owner "any more than he pays today." In fact, he might pay less, according to Dr. Knappenberger .
The group practice plan was introduced as a possible measure against some of the ills of veterinary medicine. Physical demands of a practice are too great. Explained Dr. Knappenberger, "After ten years in the business, a veterinarian burns out — he can't take it any more."
Dr. Knappenberger believes the plan would also aid the profes- sion in keeping up with integrated developments in agriculture.
The greatest problem would be the human element. The success of the plan would depend on the ability of individual veterinarians to work
closely together, Dr. Knappenberger said,
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National Swine Conference In St. Louis, November 9-10
URBANA — Top authorities from all segments of the swine in- dustry will gather in St. Louis November 9-10 for the fourth national swine industry conference.
Producers, market representatives, processors and research workers will discuss some of the most pressing problems now facing the industry. Such topics as improving the demand for pork, producing to meet consumer preferences, artificial insemination, hog cholera eradi- cation, trends in hog marketing, preventing swine diseases, new ideas in equipment and manure handling, and feeder pig production are sched- uled for discussion during the two-day meeting.
University of Illinois livestock extension specialists H. G. Russell and G. R. Carlisle urge all Illinois hog producers to attend the conference. The conference presents more top swine authorities than will appear at any meeting in the state for several years to come.
Illinois participants on the program include A. H. Jensen, U. of I. animal scientist? Don Jedele, U. of I. agricultural engineer; O. B. Ross, head of the U. of I. animal science department; Dr. J. D. Ray, White Hall; Alvin S. Lehmann, Pleasant Plains; W. D. Goeke, Hamp- shire; LaVerne Johnson, DeKalb; and Dr. Charles Greene, Whitchell and Clifford Cox, J. Russell Ives, Harvey Dastrup, and Merle LeSage, Chicago
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Regular Corn Best For Silage In U. Of I. Tests
URBANA — Results of recent University of Illinois tests indi- cate that dwarf corn has suffered another setback in its uphill struggle to replace regular corn silage in the dairyman's feeding program.
U. of I. dairy researchers found no advantage for dwarf over regular corn in silage tests with dairy cattle. The big problem with the miniature corn was that it couldn't match regular corn in tons of forage produced per acre.
U. of I. dairy researcher John Byers points out that, pound for pound, dwarf corn has significantly more total digestible nutrients than regular corn. The miniature corn also is much easier to harvest and will stand, up against more punishment from wind and rain.
But these advantages are offset by the dwarf's lower forage- producing ability. Byers points out that the ma jority of farmers still must be concerned with maximum TDN produced per acre.
Byers first compared dwarf and regular corn for silage in 1960. He noted a lower forage yield per acre for dwarf — 5.54 tons of dry matter per acre compared with 6.59 tons for regular corn.
However, the U. of I. researcher was impressed by the higher TDN figures for dwarf corn — 77.7 percent compared with 70.88 percent for the same amount of regular corn.
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This year Byers boosted plant population from 16,000 to 21,000 per acre for both types of corn, feeling that the higher population might help dwarf compete in tons of forage produced.,
The results: The regular corn showed an even bigger produc- tion advantage over dwarf. More specifically, the green forage yield rose 1.2 tons per acre for the regular corn and actually dropped for the dwarf corn.
Byers points out that increased competition for light at heavier planting rates may have been a factor in dropping dwarf corn
forage yields in the tests.
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UI Dairy Research Shows Equal Feeding Value For Haylage, Silage, Hay
University of Illinois dairy research comparing haylage, silage and hay showed no significant difference in either dry matter consumption or milk production for the three forages in tests with dairy cows this summer.
U. of I. dairy researcher John Byers says the three forages also produced nearly the same amount of dry matter per acre in the field.
Byers points out, however, that the forages were all excellent quality. None of the hay in the tests was hurt by rain before re- searchers put it in the barn. Any untimely rain might have put the hay at a disadvantage.
Byers says the research answered another question that has
been bothering dairymen since haylage first hit the forage spotlight in
1957. It showed that the new forage can be stored in conventional tower
silos.
U. of I. researchers stored haylage averaging 50 percent dry
matter in a 10 x 22 foot conventional tile silo. They noticed little spoilage, and cows ate the forage well.
For best storage results in conventional silos, Byers recom- mends that the haylage be finely chopped and tramped well in the silo. He also suggests that dairymen pack high-moisture forage in the top of the silo to insure a good seal.
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DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm And Home Science Show To Mark 100 Years Of Progress
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture will celebrate the centennial of land-grant colleges and universities with a Farm and Home Science Show September 7-8, 1962, Dean Louis B. Howard an- nounced this week.
Advance planning is already under way for this new and dif- ferent event, which is expected to draw the largest attendance of any activity on the College of Agriculture campus next year.
The two-day program will feature demonstrations and exhibits at various University research farms and laboratories. All departments of the College of Agriculture will participate. Program centers may include the swine, beef, poultry, dairy, agronomy, horticulture, agri- cultural engineering, veterinary medicine and forestry research farms, Bevier Hall home economics laboratories and the small and. large animal clinics of the College of Veterinary Medicine.
The Farm and Home Science Show will replace the Farm and Home Festival, held in late March or early April during recent years. The fall date will permit a more complete showing of the research work under way with field and fruit crops, tree plantings, livestock and mechani- zation.
K. A. Kendall, professor of dairy science, will serve as gen- eral chairman of the event.
The centennial of the land-grant colleges and universities will be observed in 1962. On July 2, 1862, President Lincoln signed the Morrill Act. This law authorized grants of land to states to es- tablish colleges and universities teaching agriculture and the mechan- ical arts.
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Ag Graduates Move Into Over 175 Jobs
URBANA — A University of Illinois College of Agriculture gradu- ate can expect to choose a career from more than 175 fields, according to Associate Dean Karl E. Gardner.
Results of a survey mailed to the college's 6,511 male agri- cultural graduates show the many opportunities open to a college gradu- ate with an agricultural background, Gardner said.
About 20 percent of the 2,865 replying are employed as educa- tional workers — school and college teachers, university agricultural extension workers, etc. ; almost 10 percent can be classed as profes- sional workers--chemists, economists, engineers, inspectors, landscape architects, etc.; 23 percent are farmers and farm managers? about 33 percent are employed in business and industry — accountants, advertising work, bankers, grain and livestock buyers, sales managers, florists, research directors, etc. ; and nearly 14 percent reported miscellaneous professions — physicians, clergymen, public officials, commercial airline pilots, lawyers, service men, etc.
Reported incomes ranged from $4,000 a year to over $75,000. The average salary was $9,205.
Average salaries for educational workers reporting incomes was $8,044- professional workers, $8,741; farmers and farm managers, $7,079; business and industry, $11,488; and miscellaneous professions, $9,230.
Farm incomes were reported for 1959, when farm incomes were low, Gardner said. If the survey had. included 1960 farm returns, farmers' incomes would compare favorably with the general average.
R. C. Ross, U. of I. professor of agricultural economics emeritus, is analyzing the replies.
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Wide Interest Shown In Farm And Family Business Management Planning
URBANA — Five Illinois county farm advisers have been named as
area advisers to meet requests of county farm advisers in carrying on a
farm and family business management program, J. B. Claar, Associate
Director of the University of Illinois Cooperative Extension Service
announced this week. Forty-nine counties are planning programs in this
area.
These positions are made possible by reassigning federal funds
allotted to the state several years to strengthen programs on the busi- ness side of farming. Previously these funds had been used by assigning assistant farm advisers to work in specified counties. After careful study, it appears we can do this work more effectively and help more people by making specialized assistance available to all counties on an area basis, Claar pointed out.
The area advisers will work with county farm and home advisers in farm and family business management and Area Resource Development. Their principal assignment in the next few months will be helping farm and home advisers conduct farm and family business management workshops. These special study sessions are designed to assist farm families manage their incomes and improve their living standards.
Strengthening the family farm is the major goal of this work. The problem of making adjustments to keep pace with changes has resulted in a growing demand on the Cooperative Extension Service for training
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and help in farm and home business planning and management, Claar stated. Extension workers will emphasize sound use of capital and credit, planning farm business enterprises and wise use of incomes for family needs.
The new advisers, former positions, areas they will serve, and their office headquarters are as follows: W. A. Bouslog, former Tazewell county farm adviser, to serve northern Illinois, expected loca- tion will be DeKalb, Dixon or Rochelle? A„ H. Harris, former assistant farm adviser in Vermilion county, to serve western Illinois, Macomb? Frank P. Graham, former Randolph county farm adviser, to serve east- central Illinois, Clinton? E. C. Mosser, former White county farm ad- viser, to serve south-central Illinois, Effingham; Donald L. Doerr, former Edgar county farm adviser, to serve southern Illinois, Benton .
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farm Leases Generally Satisfactory, Study Shows
URBANA — Farmland owners and tenants expressed general satis- faction with their leasing arrangements, according to a University of Illinois study in 22 east-central Illinois counties.
Agricultural economist Franklin J. Reiss, who carried out the study, reported these findings in a new bulletin just published.
Crop-share and crop-share-cash leases were being used by 84 percent of those owners and operators who replied, while livestock-share leases were used by 13 percent. Labor-share and cash leases or special arrangements were used by 3 percent. In the east-central part of the state, the customary rent share is half of the crop. On a few farms with sandy or timber soils, the landlord received a two-fifths share.
Slightly less than half of the farm lease agreements were in writing. Yet the law requires that notice to terminate a lease, reim- bursement guarantees, rights of entry and management prerogatives must b be in writing to be enforceable if they deviate from specific legisla- tion, common law or customary arrangements.
Costs for such items as seed, annual fertilizer, corn shelling and insect control were usually shared in the same way as the crop re- turns, that is, 50-50 in most cases.
The practices of sharing costs of limestone, rock phosphate and potash, plant foods with more than one year of usefulness, varied considerably. There seems to be a growing trend for the landlord to pay
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for the initial application of these items and the landlord and tenant
to share the costs of later maintenance applications.
Under a livestock-share lease, the landlord usually owned half
of the livestock, received half of the returns and paid half the costs of
legume and grass seeds, hay baling, silo filling, purchased feed, feed
grinding and other livestock expenses. The landlord usually paid half
or all the expense of such equipment as self-feeders, waterers and water
heaters.
Many equipment, power and fuel costs under livestock-share
leases were shared in a variety of ways. Since soils and building im- provements differ from farm to farm, cost-sharing arrangements can be set up to balance the contributions made by landlord, and tenant to the farm business.
On farms with crop-share-cash leases, the most common rental rates for tillable hay and pastureland was $5 to $10 an acre. Cash rents for nontillable land usually ranged from $5 to $8.
Cash rent for buildings was usually figured for the area in the farmstead at the per acre rate used for hay and pasture. Sometimes operators paid a lump sum of $50 to $250 for use of the buildings.
About three- fourths of the landlords in the study were farmers, retired farmers, widows of farmers or had had farm experience. Eighty- five percent of the landlords lived within 50 miles of their property, about an hour's drive or less. Only one in eight employed an agent or manager.
Modernizing the farm residence has complicated the farm rental arrangement. The farm owner is faced, with investing in a modern home without getting a direct cash rent return. Several solutions have been suggested: The tenant may modernize the farm residence at his own ex- pense, protected by a reimbursement guarantee if he leaves the farm be- fore a certain time. Or the landlord may provide a modern residence and the tenant will pay for repairs and maintenance. Another proposed solu- tion would be to develop two leases, one for the house and the other for the land.
Further details are presented in "Farm Lease Practices in East- Central Illinois," University of Illinois Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin 677. Copies can be obtained from any county farm adviser or from the College of Agriculture at Urbana.
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Lead Poisoning In Livestock Increasing/ Veterinarian Reports
URBANA — A sudden increase in livestock fatalities due to poisoning by lead paint has been reported by Dr. R. D. Hatch, University of Illinois ambulatory veterinarian.
There seems to be no explanation for the increase, but the majority of victims are cattle and sheep. Explained Dr. Hatch, "Quan- tities of lead that would cause little or no reaction in other farm ani- mals are often fatally toxic to calves and lambs."
Less than a teaspoon of lead would, be fatal to a young calf or lamb, Dr. W. G. Huber, U. of I. pharmacologist, said. The amount of lead needed for a lethal dose increases with the animal's weight.
These small doses are quickly obtained once the animal dis- covers that lead paint has an irresistible salty flavor. This tasty "treat" is everywhere — the freshly painted surface or_ the old paint under it, the water bucket converted from a paint pail or the flakes of paint scattered in the grass.
Once inside the body, lead gets into the blood stream and attacks nerve centers. If livestock are discovered before signs occur, a dose of Epsom salts may be helpful, Dr. Hatch said.
Although these salts are not a treatment, they prevent further absorption of lead by turning it into a lead sulphate. Since the ani- mal's system cannot absorb this material, the lead is eliminated in the feces.
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"Once the signs appear, death rates approach 100 percent in cattle and sheep, " Dr. Hatch said. Signs of lead poisoning are nervous- ness or excitement, blindness, incoordination, epileptic-like seizures and grinding of the teeth. These signs occur after the lead reaches the nerve centers.
Since treatment in extreme cases is almost impossible, pre- vention is the only practical solution. Dr. Hatch urges the following precautions:
1. Keep livestock away from paints having a lead base and also other sources of lead, such as insecticide sprays and. old automo- bile batteries.
2. Do not use paint pails as water buckets. Even that old reliable paint bucket can suddenly become deadly.
3. Use paint that does not contain lead. Paint manufacturers who are aware of the hazard are replacing lead with nonpoisonous sub- stances.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fertilizer's Role Reaffirmed On Morrow Plots
URBANA — While the 1961 yields on the University of Illinois Morrow Plots were not record-breakers, they pinpointed fertilizer's role in modern agriculture, report agronomists A. L. Lang and L. B. Miller.
Under the present cropping system, agronomists plant all the plots to corn every six years. Since 1876, when the plots were estab- lished to answer questions on fertility, they have continued to do just that — and to raise some yet unanswered questions.
The untreated portion of a continuous corn plot yielded 46 bushels per acre, while the treated portion produced 104 bushels per acre. Treatment started in 1955 consisted of lime, nitrogen, phosphorus and potash. Before that time the plot received no treatment and had been in corn continuously. On a continuous corn plot receiving manure, limestone and phosphate since 1904 and additional nitrogen, superphos- phate and potash for the past seven years, the yield was 117 bushels per
acre.
This year's highest yield, was 134 bushels per acre. The treatment on this plot has been manure, limestone and phosphate since 1904 in a rotation of corn, oats and legume hay.
Lang and Miller also compared plant populations of 12,000 and 16,000 on a medium-productive soil that had been planted to continuous corn with manure, limestone and phosphate treatment. They found no dif- ference in yield. In contrast, on the most productive plots, corn yielded 118 bushels with the 12,000-plant population and 134 bushels with 16, 000. This result again demonstrates the need for fitting planting rates to yield possibilities.
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Illinois Sheep ray December 8 At Urbana
URBAIS'A — The University of Illinois sheep division will hold open house for the state's sheep producers December 8 at Urbana. The annual Illinois Sheep Day program has been scheduled to enable sheepmen to finish picking corn and also take in the Illinois Purebred Sheep Breeders bred ewe sale the next day.
Activities begin with open house at the sheep farm beginning at 9 a.m. The formal program gets under way at 10 a.m. in the stock pavilion. U. S. Garrigus, U. of I. sheep division head, will moderate a panel on the future of the sheep business. Topics include production testing, fitting sheep into the farm plan, heat sychronization, artifi- cial insemination, ewe management and feeding, early weaning, creep feeding, parasite control, lamb and wool marketing and consumer accept- ance of lamb.
Dr. J. R. Pickard, U. of I. veterinarian, will discuss the scabies and scrapie control programs. R. L. Willerton, Danvers, will report on his program for fitting ewes into the farm operation. L. D. Carmichael, Rochelle, will discuss his lamb feeding program. E. A. Warner, Chicago, will demonstrate techniques for crotching, shearing rams and fitting with power shears.
Lunch will be served at noon by members of the student Hoof
and Horn Club. Adjournment is scheduled for 3 p.m.
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Illinois Purebred Sheep Sale December 9 At Urbana
URBANA — Forty-one purebred ewes are listed in the catalog of the Illinois Purebred Sheep Breeders winter bred ewe sale December 9 at
Urbana.
This year's sale offering comes from 15 Illinois flocks, re- ports U. S. Garrigus, University of Illinois sheep division head, and secretary of the breeders association. Breeds represented include Suf- folk, Corriedale, Rambouillet, Hampshire, Oxford, Southdown and Shrop- shire.
A complete sale catalog may be obtained by writing to Illinois
Purebred Sheep Breeders Association, 110 Stock Pavilion, Urbana.
Breeders from this area who will offer sheep for sale include:
(Editor: Note list of consigners below.)
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Breeders who will sell ewes at the sale:
Belleville, Helms Brothers
Bushnell, Bruce Sperry
Carbondale, Southern Illinois University
Elmwood, Jim Forney
Findlay, W. R. Yantis
Georgetown, John Trapp and Sons
Lake Villa, William Duncan
Newman, John Albin
Prairie City, Keith McMillan and Sons
Seneca, Robert Jackson
Seymour, Green Top Farm
Stewardson, Clarence Rincker
Stonington, Harry Blome, Jr.
Urbana, University of Illinois
Windsor, Joe Hampton, Jr.
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SPF Producers Organize Illinois Swine Repopuiation Association
URBANA — Representatives from Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) Swine Laboratories along with primary and secondary SPF producers have established the Illinois Swine Repopuiation Association.
Purpose of the association, according to Dr. J. R. Pickard, is to develop and maintain SPF breeding herds through a system of health accreditation standards. Dr. Pickard is a University of Illinois ex- tension veterinarian who attended the organization meeting.
The group has established guide rules for health and perform- ance of SPF pigs and adopted by-laws outlining requirements for member- ship and duties of officers. In addition, the association elected officers and drew up articles of incorporation to submit to the state.
Officers of the Illinois Swine Repopuiation Association are Eldon Johnson, Nokomis, president; Dr. Jason James, Sullivan, vice- president; and Dr. M. V. Slingerland, Altamont, secretary- treasurer. Additional board members are Eugene Feld, Alexis; Dr. Arthur Starkey, McLean; Paul W. Mangold, Mason City; and Dr. Marvin Clark, Monmouth.
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JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UI Tests Slatted Floors For Swine
URBANA — Slatted flooring for livestock shelters — an idea that originated in Iceland some 200 years ago — is taking hold among modern- day farmers.
Poultrymen were the first to use slatted floors. But recently hog producers have been showing interest in the practice.
The logic behind slatted floors is the same for both types of livestock. Manure drops through slots in a raised floor and can be re- moved without interference from animals or equipment. The floors have the added advantage of keeping animals clean.
Recent University of Illinois agricultural engineering re- search indicates that concrete slats may be the farmer's best bet for raised, slatted flooring for hogs. Early this year U. of I. researchers compared quarry screen flooring and. concrete and wood slats.
In general, they found that quarry screen did the best job of keeping hogs clean. However, animals on the wire screen were reluctant to move around and showed some hoof wear.
Concrete and wood slats had no visible effects on the animals' hooves. And researchers noted little difference between wood and con- crete so far as self-cleaning was concerned.
However, the scientists point out that in choosing slatted floor material the farmers should also consider such factors as dura- bility, anchorage, dimensional stability and. cost. When these factors are considered, concrete appears to have a slight advantage over wood for flooring.
U. of I. researchers point out, however, that work is under way with wood slats for flooring. Results of these tests could affect the present advantages noted for concrete.
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Southern Illinois Becoming Cattle Country
URBANA — Some southern Illinois farmers are finding it profit- able to produce quality feeder calves and sell them to their corn belt farmer neighbors to the north.
Developments to date prove that southern Illinois farmers can produce good to choice feeder calves. And, when they do, central and northern Illinois farmers will come south to buy them. But the number available for sale still falls far short of meeting the needs of all the state's cattle feeders.
Probably the best example of quality southern Illinois feeder calves were the 2,000 head that moved through the auction ring at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment Station this fall. More than 100 producers, members of the Egyptian Livestock Association, sold 2,026 head for about a quarter of a million dollars.
This sale didn't become successful overnight. The association has been holding similar sales for 12 years. University of Illinois livestock extension specialist Harry Russell observes that the quality offered this year was the best he has seen. Bob Cate of the Dixon Springs staff says that sellers were pleased with the strong prices and buyers were able to get fresh, clean, well-sorted and evenly matched groups of cattle.
The top pen of six steers averaged 294 pounds and brought $29.50. A second pen of nine 359-pound steers brought $29.25.
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Cattle buyers are naturally interested in knowing what kind of finished cattle these feeders will make? Harry Russell believes that cattle like those moving through the Dixon Springs sale will fill feed- lot requirements for buyers who finish their cattle to low to average choice grade. These animals are the type in demand by the chain stores.
Producers in other areas of southern Illinois have watched the progress of the Egyptian Livestock Association and have also organized feeder cattle sales.
The Benton Feeder Sale was held for the second time this year. About 180 head, mostly yearlings, sold for $22,000. The average price per pound was $21.72.
In the Murphysboro area, a group of cattle producers con- signed 337 head to an auction sale, with prices ranging from $17.25 to $27.75.
The associations sponsoring these sales hope for larger num- bers and higher quality consignments next year.
Farmers thinking about starting beef herds to raise feeder calves should start with good-quality cows and a top bull, Russell em- phasizes. Many present herd owners would do well to upgrade the quality of their cows and bulls. Neither seller or buyer should expect much success with low-quality animals, he concludes.
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Area Youth Will Attend National 4-H Dairy Conference
URBANA — The top 14 Illinois 4-H'ers in dairying will attend the seventh National 4-H Dairy Conference in Chicago November 30 to December 2.
According to Frank Mynard, University of Illinois 4-H spe- cialist, club members earned this trip because of their outstanding dairy projects and their leadership and achievement records.
On Thursday, November 30, the winners will attend the Inter- national Horse Show and Rodeo. The Don McNeill Breakfast Club, the Prudential Building and. the International Dairy Show are highlights of Friday's program. Saturday morning the group will attend a dairy marketing clinic. During their stay in Chicago, they will also attend several dinners in their honor.
Club members from this area selected, for the tour are: (Editor? Please see attached list.)
Illinois delegates are sponsored by the Pure Milk Association, Illinois Holstein-Friesian Association, Southern Illinois Breeding As- sociation and Northern Illinois Breeding Cooperative.
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ILLINOIS DELEGATES SEVENTH ANNUAL 4-H DAIRY CONFERENCE CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 30 TO DECEMBER 2, 1961
County
Carroll
Cook
DeWitt
DuPage
Greene
Henry
Kane
Kendall
Montgomery
Mercer
Moultrie
Schuyler
Stark
Vermilion
Name Arnold Getz Leslie Allen Yunker
Reggie Merrill Erwin L. Dieckhoff Bob Goeddey Robert Godke Richard Schingoethe Cheryl B. Smith David 0. Ruppert James Bogart Myrna Darlene Christy Larry Keith Dodds Richard Jaye Colver Gary Ludwig
Address
R. 2, Savanna
R. 1, Box 60
151st St. & Wolf Road
Orland Park
523 N. Elm, Clinton
Ro lj Bartlett
R. 2, Carrollton
R. 1, Kewanee
R. 1, Box 153, Sugar Grove
R. 1, Box 80, Oswego
R. 2, Nokomis
R. 3, Aledo
R. 1, Sullivan
Star Route, Rushville
R. 1, Neponset
R, 1, Danville
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AGRICULTURAL CONFERENCES
Urbana, Illinois
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE and the DIVISION OF UNIVERSITY EXTENSION
Soil Fumigants May Control Soil Problems In Lawns
URBANA — Nothing beats good management, but soil fumigant re- search at the University of Illinois horticulture department shows promise of licking the weed problem prior to establishment of turf- grasses.
University of Illinois turf specialist H. R. Kemmerer will
report on research progress at the Second Illinois Turfgrass Conference here December 4 and 5.
With present materials, fumigation isn't practical for the average home owner, says Kemmerer. Under research conditions, fumigation — for best results — involves tilling the soil six to eight inches deep and controlling temperatures between a 60- and 85-degree Fahrenheit range. And researchers have found that clay and organic soils require more fumigant than sandy soils.
In addition, studies have shown that fumigation sometimes slows nitrogen release. The operation therefore also involves using the nitrate form of nitrogen so that the element will be readily avail- able.
Kemmerer will give details on soil fumigation research in his
presentation, "Controlling Soil Pest Problems Before They Develop" at
the Turfgrass Conference. Those interested should write the Conference
Supervisor, 116E Illini Hall, Champaign, Illinois.
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Arsenic Accumulation Poses Growth Problem
URBANA — Compounds containing arsenic, long used for insect control and more recently for weed control, now pose problems, according to University of Illinois soil scientist S. W. Melsted.
Many orchards with a history of arsenic spray use are now too toxic for crop production. Soil toxicity is only part of the problem, says Melsted. Since arsenic reacts much like phosphate, it remains in the surface crust when sprayed on the soil. Arsenic also reacts like phosphate in soil tests. University of Illinois agronomists presently are working on practical methods for showing the presence of arsenic.
Reclaiming arsenic-toxic soils is such a difficult and time- consuming job that it is seldom completely successful, says Melsted. Grne method involves mixing and diluting the surface-crust accumulation with the rest of the soil. The other involves applying large amounts of phosphorus fertilizer to reduce the amount of arsenic taken into the plant. The amount of phosphate that is needed will depend on how much arsenic is in the soil and how well it has been distributed through the surface soil. The required amount of phosphate may vary from 200 to 600 pounds per acre, depending on the severity of arsenic toxicity in the soil. So far results of reclaiming arsenic-toxic soils have been vari- able and never completely successful, reports Melsted.
The University of Illinois agronomist will report on "Arsenic in Plants and. Soils" at the Illinois Turfgrass Conference at Urbana December 4 and 5.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 1961
Future Trends In Sheep Production Reported
URBANA — Traditional sheep production methods may be due for some revolutionary changes as scientific research results are applied by modern sheep producers. At the University of Illinois Sheep Day here today, a panel of scientists and sheep authorities previewed some of the developments to come.
U. S. Garrigus, head of the sheep division, called upon sheep producers to use the latest scientific findings to improve their labor and income returns from sheep. Although lamb and mutton output per breeding animal has doubled in the past 50 years, he said there was still need for improvement.
F. C. Hinds, research worker at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station, reported successful efforts to control breeding and. lambing times. Through use of a female hormone called Provera, scientists have been able to concentrate lambing time for most ewes into a nine-day period. In tests the ewes that did not receive the hormone in their feed, lambed over a much longer period. The hormone treatment did not affect the birth weight of the lambs or the number of ewes having twins
B. B. Doane, U. of I. sheep farm manager, reported that high
labor requirements have been the major obstacle to use of artificial
insemination in sheep. But recent advancements in synchronized breeding
may greatly stimulate its development. Artificial insemination would
enable producers to make greater use of superior sires, keep fewer rams
and control diseases.
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J, M. Lewis, assistant director at the Dixon Springs Experi- ment Station, reported that weaning lambs early or using some system that does not allow lambs to graze with adult sheep will greatly reduce parasites and produce a higher quality product for an earlier market. Lambs weaned early continued to gain well when fed in drylot. Lewis believes that early weaning along with new methods of synchronized breeding and artificial insemination may make it possible to produce three lamb crops in two years.
T. R0 Cline encouraged sheep producers to creep- feed lambs. This practice makes it possible to get lambs to market earlier and usually to obtain a higher price as well as to save labor by shortening time the lambs are on the farm,
R. J. Vatthauer, U. of I. animal science department, reported that feeding trials over a three-year period had shown that ram lambs gained faster than wether and ewe lambs. The ram lamb carcasses had more lean meat than wether or ewe lamb carcasses. Taste panel tests showed that cooked, sirloin roasts from ram and wether carcasses could not be identified in young lambs. These results suggest that castrat- ing ram lambs is not necessary for producing a high-quality lamb carcass if lambs are marketed by five months of age.
Implanting lambs with stilbestrol did not improve carcass quality or performance of suckling lambs in Illinois tests. Ram lambs that were not implanted gained faster than implanted rams. The implant- ing had no effect on wether or ewe lambs. No differences were found in carcass grade, loin eye area or fat content of the carcass.
M. R. Karr, U. of I. assistant in animal science, reported that a mixture of copper sulphate and nicotine sulphate was more effective
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than phenothiazine in controlling certain stomach worms in lambSo Although phenothiazine has been used so widely and effectively for many years, it appears that at least one species of worm has become resistant to it. Where resistant strains of stomach worms are not involved, phenothiazine still appears to be the most effective drug against stomach worms.
William Gaither, Jr., assistant principal of schools at Williams- ville, reported on use of lamb in their school lunch program. He be- lieves that including lamb in the lunch program can increase interest and demand for the product, When lamb was first served at Williamsville, about 77 percent of the students had lamb and enjoyed it. They were not aware of the kind of meat they had eaten, nor were they particularly interested, however. Their main comment was that "it tasted good."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Turkey Marketing Order Hearings In Chicago December 8
URBANA — Illinois turkey industry members will have the op- portunity to express their views on proposed marketing orders that would regulate handling of turkey hatching eggs and market turkeys this Friday, December 8, in Chicago.
Marketing orders are compulsory programs designed to maintain orderly marketing, provide fair prices for consumers and give reasonable returns to producers.
J. R, Roush, University of Illinois poultry marketing econo- mist, explains that the proposed marketing orders provide for supply management? market research and development? regulation of grade, size and quality by handlers? and prohibitions on unfair trade practices.
During the Chicago hearings, a U. S. Department of Agriculture official will preside and receive testimony for or against the proposed orders. Anyone who will be affected by the order can testify. Hearings will be conducted at the LaSalle Hotel beginning at 9 a.m.
If industry members indicate enough interest at the hearings held in Chicago and. in other parts of the country, the Secretary of Agri- culture can call for a referendum. If two-thirds of all producers or those growing two-thirds of the total production approve the order, the Secretary can declare the order in effect.
The proposed orders for turkeys and turkey hatching eggs would be the first ever applied to a single commodity on a nation-wide basis. They would also be the first ever applied to livestock or poultry. Many farmers are watching the proposed turkey program with interest, since the outcome might lead to proposed order for other livestock and poultry products.
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(Note to Editor; This story is a round-up of results of judging contests in which University of Illinois and Illinois 4-H judging teams partici- pated. You have probably already received individual team results through the wire services.)
Illinois- Judging Teams Complete Successful Year
URBANA — Eighteen University of Illinois College of Agriculture students won top honors in national judging contests this fall.
This year's judging teams compiled one of the best all-around records in recent years.
The University of Illinois dairy products judging team placed first in the all-around class at the 1961 Collegiate Students' Interna- tional Contest in Washington, D. C. This team, which is coached by Joseph Tobias, associate professor of dairy technology, won a $2, 300 scholarship for the University's graduate program.
The dairy team, coached by Jack Albright, assistant professor of dairy husbandry, placed fourth at the National Collegiate Dairy Judg- ing Contest in Waterloo, Iowa, and seventh at the intercollegiate con- test held in conjunction with the International Livestock Exposition in
Chicago.
At the American Royal Intercollegiate Judging Contest, the
University's livestock team placed third. The livestock team also
placed third at the Chicago Judging Contest. This team is coached by
W. Wo Albert, assistant professor of animal science.
The U. of I. meats judging team placed ninth at the American Royal . They bettered their record in Chicago, where they placed third. Robert Kauffman, assistant professor of animal science, served as coach.
Members of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture
staff also coached the state 4-H judging teams. The 4-H poultry team,
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coached by extension poultry specialist Sam F. Ridlen, placed first in the Interstate Invitational 4-H Judging Contest held in Chicago.
At the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest held at Waterloo, Iowa, Illinois' team placed seventh. Coach J. G. Cash, extension dairy specialist, pushed his team to victory at the International Livestock Exposition.
The state 4-H livestock team placed second at the American Royal. The team finished fourth at the International Livestock Exposi- tion. The livestock team is coached by Don Walker, extension livestock specialist. (Note to Editors Names of team members are given below. )
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1961 University of Illinois Judging Teams
Dairy Products
Dennis Gordon, DesPlaines Patricia Crater, Havana JoMar Alwes, Bloomington Thomas Cain, Chicago, alt.
Livestock
Charles Bickelhaupt, Mt. Carroll Phillip L. Dollahon, Seymour Duane E. Haning, Minier Donald E. McAtee, Greenview Gene L. Weber, Thawville Jack Clark, Lewis town, alt, Robert Humphreys, Gilson, alt. James Schoonaert, Washington, alt.
Meats
Gordon Gullakson, Serena Larry Howard, White Hall Gordon Reynolds, Lostant Edward Stokes, El Paso Glen Truckeribrod, Mendota
Dairy
Jerry Miller, Centralia Dave Gusse, Dixon Jim Dunphy Sullivan Marvin Schlomer, Benson
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Illinois h-R Judging Teams
Dairy
Ronald Boldt, Seneca Larry Mohr, Normal Dale Schultz, Peoria Don Preese, Sullivan
Livestock
Gerald Anderson, Leland Gerald Carroll, Brimf ield Harold Heck, Aledo Ronnie McCaskill, Timewell Charles Rayburn, Bondville
Poultry
Jim Fulkerson, Manville Don Collom, Ridgef arm Glen Osborn, Hartsburg Arlyn McCormick, Shelbyville Leslie Beall, Streator, alt. Virginia Bohlea, Moweaqua, alt.
JEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sheepmen Urged to Build Consumer Acceptance
URBANA — Sheep producers must do three things if they are to have an economically successful business in the future, a University of Illinois livestock marketing economist stated this week.
E. E. Broadbent urged sheepmen to build, volume/ develop out- lets that will pay for a quality product and market a product that will attract customers and bring them back for more.
Broadbent recognized that volume was a major problem in Illi- nois. High-paying lamb buyers must operate where there is a volume of high-quality lambs. Illinois lamb production is so sparse and. unevenly distributed that producers have not been able to attract and hold the markets they would like.
Whether present marketing agencies handle the lambs or new
agencies are set up, both face the problem of securing a volume of
high-quality lambs to obtain the favorable prices producers want,
Broadbent pointed out.
To get consumer acceptance, Broadbent urged sheepmen to demonstrate their product to the consuming public. He cited the suc- cessful chicken and pork barbecues staged by producers in Illinois and elsewhere.
He cited the records showing that costs of labor and. feed to produce a pound of meat favor pork, poultry and beef producers. Yet prices paid for lamb have not been favorable for lamb producers.
Sheep and lamb producers face serious competition. Every producer has a responsibility to use and be a salesman for his prod- uct, Broadbent concluded.
Broadbent spoke at the Illinois Sheep Day program Friday on the U. of I. campus.
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Scholarships Offered in Food Science
URBANA — High school seniors interested in pursuing college study in food science and technology are eligible for consideration for ten $300 scholarships offered by the Institute of Food Technologists, according to R. T. Milner, head of the University of Illinois food technology department.
Milner points out that this is the second year the profes- sional society of food technologists has sponsored IFT undergraduate scholarship awards. Ten recipients of the 1961 scholarships are now attending five schools in various sections of the country.
In addition to the ten $300 scholarships offered to students entering college for the first time in the fall of 1962, Milner says that the Institute of Food Technologists also provides or administers scholarships or fellowships currently totaling $22,000.
The University of Illinois is the only institution in Illi- nois now offering a curriculum in food technology.
Candidates interested in the scholarships should request application forms from the food technology department office, 213 Mumford Hall, University of Illinois, Urbana. Deadline for applica- tions is March 1, 1962.
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Local U. of I. Students Receive Scholarships
URBANA — Seventeen University of Illinois students will re- ceive $300 Sears-Roebuck Foundation scholarships, according to Cecil D. Smith, College of Agriculture assistant dean.
The awards are granted on the basis of high school record, leadership activities and financial need.
David John Schingoethe, 19, R. 1, Sugar Grove, won the spe- cial sophomore award given to the student with the highest record among last year's freshman winners. All the other winners are freshmen study- ing agriculture or home economics.
Local scholarship winners are:
(Editor — See attached sheet of winners listed by winners' home towns.)
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Local U. of I, Students Receive Scholarships
Burnt Prairie, R. 1
Carmi, 207 South Fifth Street
Caseyville, Box 48, R. 1
Carthage, 612 South Scofield
Edwards
Ellery
Marengo, R. 1
Monica
Oregon, R. 2
Pawnee
Prophets town, Box 93, R. 3
Rock Falls, R. 2
South Beloit, R« 1
Sugar Grove, R. 1
Toluca
Trenton, R. 2
Waterman, R. 1
Richard Duaine Winter Larry Franklin Barbre Larry Leland Erlinger Esta Jane Sheets Darrell Edward Munton Earnest Anniss Ronald Lee Gieseke Emma Sue Gilkeson Denis David. Anderson William Donald. Boston Robert Carl Anderson Harlan Neil Henson Robert Dean Clothier David John Schingoethe Vyrl Lynn Laible Marjorie Elaine Vaninger David W. Birch
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1962 Farm Outlook Packet
Price And Production Policies: Key To Long-Run Farm Outlook
URBANA — Price and production policy, price support levels, and storage programs are crucial factors in the long-term agricultural out- look according to Harold G. Halcrow, head of the University of Illinois agricultural economics department.
He expects that farm costs and. prices will continue about the same as in recent years and that the terms of trade for farm products will be similar to those of 1958 to 1960. He sees little evidence that farm prices will return to the high levels of the early 1950' s. On the other hand, they do not seem likely to fall below 1958-60 levels.
Halcrow makes these observations on the farm situation:
Adjustments must take place if agriculture is to be free and prosperous on a family farm basis. Young people in rural areas need a broader education so that they will not be solely dependent on farming as a future occupation. Only about one-fourth of those who grow up on farms will be able to find room in farming.
Off-farm employment opportunities must be developed for farm- ers who find themselves in low- income situations and who have an in- terest in other employment. Ways should be found to provide job train- ing so that those who take nonfarm jobs won't have to start so far down the income ladder.
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A significant shift in national farm policy has occurred. An administrative policy of getting government out of agriculture has been replaced by a philosophy of government regulation of both production and marketing.,
There is a need to develop a long-run national defense food policy. Policies that may be appropriate for peacetime are not suffi- cient to provide adequate food reserves for war and to serve as a maxi- mum deterrent against attack. Such policy should, consider size, loca- tion and form of storage stocks. The temptation to view food reserves as a surplus disposal program should be avoided.
More emphasis should be placed on long-range policies aimed
at fundamental adjustments rather than year-to-year emergency programs.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1962 Farm Outlook Packet
Higher Hog Production In 1962 Likely? Lower Prices Expected
URBANA — Illinois swine producers can expect a generally favor- able corn-hog ratio for most of 1962, a University of Illinois livestock marketing economist stated this week.
As a result, E. E. Broadbent believes hog producers will in- crease their farrowings and market more hogs during the new year.
Here is how Broadbent appraises the 1962 hog situation:
Although government price supports under feed, grains are higher, there is no reason to believe that the corn-hog ratio will be unfavorable next year.
The fall pig crop is about 3 percent higher than it was last
year, and early estimates place 1962 spring farrowings about 5 percent
higher. So hog marketings will be higher all through the new year.
A sustained high corn-hog ratio leads to relatively heavy farrowing. The lighter marketings of sows this fall indicate that farm- ers intend to push up spring farrowings. Optimism from present favor- able cost-price relationships may cause farmers to boost spring farrow- ing more than the estimated 5 percent. Such a development could, mean a sharp price decline in late fall and early winter--as much as $3 below 1961. Such a depressed price situation could cause some groups to advocate more government help to prevent financial distress for hog producers.
While the 1961 fall price decline is past, prices may hover between $15 and $16 a hundred at country points during late December and early January. Since packers are not storing so much pork as usual, prices may move up and down quickly at times during the months ahead.
Record supplies of beef, broilers and turkeys are going to furnish consumers with considerable choice of meats along with addi- tional supplies of pork.
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1962 Farm Outlook Packet
Government Dairy Purchases Up Following Price Support Boost
URBANA — Government dairy product purchases to support prices in 1961 will probably be more than double those of I960, a University of Illinois dairy marketing economist pointed out this week.
R. W. 3artlett reports that butter and cheese purchases will be equivalent to about 7.5 billion pounds of milk, or about 6 percent of total production. The 1960 government dairy support operations amounted to about 3.1 billion pounds of milk, or 2.7 percent of total production.
Bartlett believes the major part of the increased government
buying resulted from higher price supports announced in September 1960
and March 1961. From September to March, support prices were increased.
from 77 to 85 percent of parity.
From 1953 to 1960, dairy support prices were reduced from 90 to 77 percent of parity. During this period, government purchases for price support declined from 8.4 to 2.7 percent of total milk production.
From an economic viewpoint, there was no justification for raising price supports in September 1960 and March this year. The basic problem is reconciling economic and political reasoning in determining a price support policy, Bartlett points out.
Some have proposed setting a market quota for each dairy pro- ducer, with a penalty for those who produce more than their quota. Bartlett questions whether this plan is in the best public interest or the best long-run interest of dairy farmers. During recent years, con- siderable substitution of other foods has encroached upon the dairy farmer's traditional market. Such examples include margarine in place of butter, mellorine in place of ice cream, filled milk in place of evaporated milk, low-priced meat in place of cheese and sterile concen- trated milk in place of fresh whole milk.
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1962 Outlook Packet
Soybean Prices To Stay Near Loan 7 Surplus Expected
URBANA — Soybean prices will remain close to the loan rate for the first nine months of 1962, a University of Illinois agricultural marketing economist believes.
T. A. Hieronymus says that farmers are holding their 1961 soybeans tightly and will put enough into the loan program to make the support price effective.
Buyers may bid up prices a little above the loan in the spring to persuade farmers to sell. But prices will not move up very far be- cause of the substantial carryover expected next October 1 and the USDA decision to sell at about six cents above the loan price.
Here is how Hieronymus sizes up the soybean situation for the months ahead:
Soybeans will be in surplus in 1962; a carryover of about 90 mil- lion bushels next October 1 seems likely.
The total supply on October 1, 1961, was 701 million bushels. During the year, about 36 million will be used for seed and feed. Ex- ports will probably total about 150 million bushels compared with 130 million this past year. About 425 million bushels will be crushed for oil and meal compared with 402 million last season. Total use will therefore run about 611 million bushels.
Soybean oil exports for the year ahead will run about 1.5 billion pounds. But about 1.3 billion will be exported under donation and subsidized export programs. To obtain 1.3 billion pounds of oil requires 118 million bushels of soybeans. This is a further measure of the soybean surplus.
The average loan rate for the 1961 crop is $2.30 a bushel. It will probably remain the same for the 1962 crop.
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1S62 Farm Outlook Packet
Beef Supplies Plentiful; Little Price Change Likely In 1962
URBANA — American consumers can look forward to plentiful beef supplies in 1962. And cattle feeders and producers can expect prices to average about the same as in 1961.
Cattlemen sent record supplies of beef to market in 1961, enough for nearly 87 pounds for every man, woman and child in the coun- try. For 1962, rising supplies of beef for slaughter will keep pace with our growing population even though beef imports may be slightly lower.
Here is how M. B. Kirtley, University of Illinois livestock marketing economist, views the beef cattle outlook:
The number of cattle on U.S. farms and ranches will total 98.5 to 99 million head on January 1 compared with 97.1 million on January 1, 1961, and 96.2 million in 1960. The expansion rate is only slightly greater than the increased market provided by our growing population.
As a result of the larger inventory, cattle slaughter will be slightly higher in 1962. But the total amount of beef will not rise as much, since animals are expected to be slaughtered at lighter weights.
In 1961, steer and heifer slaughter rose 5 percent while cow slaughter dropped about 9 percent. Next year cow slaughter will prob- ably rise. More young stock will probably be held back as replacements. As a result, cow prices may decline somewhat, but decreased imports of boneless beef may mean that price will decline less than normally when slaughter goes up.
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Fed cattle prices will probably hold about steady through the winter. In the spring, some decline will occur, but it will not be so sudden or severe as last year.
Demand for beef should be favorable. Consumer incomes will be higher than in 1961. Unemployment will be less probable. Although meat supplies will be large, they may be more evenly distributed in 1962.
Low cattle-feeding profits seem likely for many operators in 1962. Fall prices of stocker and feeder cattle were higher and will re- main strong. Feed costs will also be slightly higher. Expansion in the cattle-feeding industry has resulted in continued sharp competition for replacement cattle.
The market demand for beef is becoming more standardized. Most buyers want lighter weight cattle with moderate finish. Price spreads will be wider between grades in 1962 than this past year, but generally cattle with moderate finish and those with high finish will sell closer to the same price than in the past.
The strong consumer demand for beef, even with record supplies, shows the favorable position of the beef industry. If cattlemen con- tinue to expand gradually in line with the growing market, the cattle industry will remain in sound condition.
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1962 Farm Outlook Packet
Little Change In Net Income Expected; Demand For Farm Products Steady To Higher
URBANA — Net farm income, which rose about 8 percent in 1961, won't change much in 1962, a University of Illinois agricultural econo- mist believes.
L. H. Simerl points out that the increase in 1961 came largely through bigger government payments to farmers, especially under the feed grain program. Officials in Washington do not seem to be planning higher payments in 1962. Neither is there any prospect for much in- crease in income from farm marketings, he reports.
Here is how Simerl sees the general demand and cost situation for farmers in 1962:
Consumer demand for farm products is expected to increase normally. Population as usual will increase about 1.6 percent. Wage rates will rise by at least 3 or maybe 4 percent. The number of em- ployed persons may increase by 2 percent even though the number of un- employed shows no change.
Probably only a small part of the increase consumer spending for food will get through to become net farm income. About 90 percent of the money consumers now spend for food is absorbed in processing and distribution and in farm opera trig expenses.
Farmers usually benefit from general business improvement. And they are never prosperous when nonfarm industries are depressed. So a favorable business outlook is favorable to farm income.
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Foreign demand for U. S. farm products is increasing and should be as good in 1962 as in this past year. Unfortunately some of our products, notably wheat, are overpriced in comparison with prices in other exporting countries. So we are forced to subsidize exports of wheat heavily — or give it away. Other products — soybeans, for example — are priced competitively and. are sold, without subsidy to foreign buyers.
The wage-cost spiral continues to pinch farmers. The rising
costs are largely "made in U.S.A.," while prices of many farm products
are strongly influenced by international conditions. Wage-cost pressure
will persist in 1962, but it is encouraging that economists and public
officials are beginning to recognize the injurious effects of excessive
cost increases on farm income.
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1962 Farm Outlook Packet Larger Laying Flocks In 1962 ?
Lower Egg Prices Likely
URBANA — The coming year does not appear so favorable as 1961 for egg producers, a University of Illinois poultry marketing economist believes.
J. R. Roush points out that the size of the nation's laying flock will be about the same at the beginning of 1962 as it was a year ago. But new pullets will be added as the year progresses, and by mid- year the total number of birds in laying flocks will exceed that of a year earlier.
Higher laying rates will mean larger egg supplies during the first six months of 1962. So prices will probably drop below those of a year ago at least during the first four months, Roush explains.
Prices for the last half of the year will depend on the num- ber of baby chicks hatched this winter and next spring. It now looks as if hatchings will exceed, those of a year ago. Present hatching activity indicates continued interest in increasing the size of the nation's laying flock, Roush observes. Continued low broiler prices may induce some producers to switch from broiler to egg production. If this occurs, egg prices will be lower in the last half of 1962 than they were in 1961.
Even though broiler producers received the lowest prices since
1934 this past year, there doesn't seem to be any large-scale reduction
in production. Placements have been about the same in recent weeks as
last year. Breeder flocks are also expected to be larger earlier in the
year. Such developments cannot create any substantial price improvements
during 1962, Roush points out.
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Despite record supplies and the lowest prices since 1940, producers show little evidence of making any drastic cut in turkey pro- duction in 1962. The number of breeder hens on hand could result in a 1962 turkey crop of more than 100 million birds compared with 107 mil- lion in 1961. To achieve prices equal to 1960 would require production of about 85 million.
No matter what production changes are made, record supplies carried over from the 1961 crop will mean little price change through the first eight months of the year. If proposed turkey marketing orders are put into effect and bring reduction in marketings, turkey prices might be increased, but not before the last quarter of 1962, Roush concludes.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
1962 Farm Outlook Packet
Government Activity Key Factor In Corn Outlook
URBANA — Rate of corn sales by farmers, marketings by govern- ment and the amount of 1961 corn farmers place under price supports this winter and spring are the three main factors that will determine future corn prices, according to L. F. Stice, University of Illinois grain marketing economist.
In 1961, farmers produced 3,527 million bushels of corn. Use during the current feeding season is expected, to be 3,676 million. The 150-million-bushel difference between production and needs will be sup- plied from the 2,000 million bushels of carryover stocks on hand. Octo- ber 1. This will come about when the amount of corn sold by the govern- ment exceeds the amount of 1961 corn delivered under the price support program by 150 million bushels or more.
If corn production and use estimates are accurate, the major uncertainty is what market prices will prevail. Stice believes three possible situations could develop:
1. The government may sell enough corn to offset any quantity
farmers seal in addition to the 150-million-bushel difference between
1961 production and use. Under this circumstance, market prices could
be held at present levels or lower through government sales. But there
are some unknowns here: How much corn can Commodity Credit Corporation
sell? How much corn is potential loan corn? The question here is not
how much eligible corn was produced on the acreages in compliance with
the Feed Grain Program, but how much will be sealed or sold, depending
upon market price.
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USDA economists estimate that farmers participating in the Feed Grain Program produced about 1,645 million bushels of corn and that 1,465 million bushels are legally eligible for price support. CCC can legally sell corn and other feed grains at market prices, against the $768 million of Feed Grain Program payment certificates, for export and relief, and also non-storable corn.
It is unlikely that total CCC sales of corn this season will exceed the 1,465 million bushels eligible for loan, but they could exceed the quantity that would move into loan or market, depending on price. In late November and early December CCC corn sales averaged over 25 million bushels a week.
2. The quantity of potential loan corn may exceed the quantity CCC can sell at market prices. More of this corn may be placed under loan than CCC sales plus 150 million bushels. If this happens, market prices would rise enough before next August 1 to cause redemption of 1961 sealed corn. This would mean market prices of $1.25 a bushel or higher
next summer.
3. Market prices may rise enough to divert potential loan corn to market before it gets under loan. If past experiences are a guide, market prices of $1.10 to $1.15 a bushel would do this. Futures market corn prices suggest that the grain trade believes this situation is more likely to prevail.
Whether or not it does depends on how well USDA officials can anticipate farmer selling of corn and adjust their inventory management program to it. At the same time farmers with corn to sell, especially high-moisture corn, must anticipate government sales.
Stice reports that in November farmers' sales of corn were light. Receipts at the 13 primary markets from October 1 through Decem- ber 7 totaled 75.5 million bushels compared with 117 million in the same period a year earlier. Government marketings, however, have been heavy. Sales from October 1 to December 1 totaled 136 million bushels compared with 31 million for the same period a year ago.
Heavy CCC sales plus an increase in farm marketings are re- sponsible for the weakening market prices in December. But anticipating future trends of prices will be a challenge to both farmers and govern- ment officials, Stice concludes.
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MEWS FROM AGRICULTURE
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Find Johne ' s Disease In Illinois Herds
URBANA — Johne' s disease, an intestinal infection seldom diagnosed in Illinois, has suddenly cropped up in cattle herds throughout the state, Dr. R. L. Brewer, University of Illinois veteri- narian, reports.
Johne* s disease has probably been present all along, Dr. Brewer said, but has been overlooked because it is so difficult to diagnose. The difficulty lies with the organisms that cause Johne' s. Because these organisms are similar to those causing tuberculosis, laboratory tests often result in a false diagnosis.
In some aspects, Illinois cases have been contrary to the typical Johne' s case. Johne 's usually strikes cattle in the two- to six-year-old age bracket, but Dr. Brewer has found case after case involving calves. Also, some Illinois feeder cattle have been in- fected, even though Johne ' s is known as a pasture disease.
In most cases, 20 percent of the herd is involved. But some cases involve much greater percentages, Dr. Brewer explained. In one dairy herd containing 100 head, 50 percent of the animals had the disease. Fortunately, only 15 percent showed clinical signs.
Once cattle show clinical signs — that is, signs that can be seen easily — there is little hope of saving thsm. Dr. Brewer described the typical clinical case as "looking like a rack of bones with a hair coat that stands straight up, stiff as a board." The animal declines until it is too weak to stand. Usually there is extreme diarrhea.
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Johne ' s disease is caused by microscopic organisms that infect the intestines of cattle and sheep. These organisms are trans- mitted from animal to animal via the feces, either directly or indi- rectly through food, and water contaminated with fecal material.
Sanitation is the best preventive, according to Dr. Brewer. He recommends the following procedure:
1. Clean and disinfect buildings containing fecal material.
2. Isolate calves from mature animals until they are two years old.
3. Add only disease-free animals to the herd.
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jNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
UI Leaflet Lists Latest Dairy Feeding Suggestions
URBANA — The Illinois dairyman's most up-to-date-feeding guide is the new University of Illinois leaflet, "Dairy Feeding Suggestions."
A major feature of the booklet is a listing of 31 of the most common dairy feeding questions asked by Illinois farmers. Here are a few of the questions listed and the answers U. of I. dairy scientists give. What Effect Does Heavy Grain Feeding Have On Mastitis?
Feeding large amounts of corn, other grains or protein will not cause mastitis in dairy cattle. Mastitis is the direct result of a mammary gland infection. However, heavy feeding accompanied by higher milk production may cause the mammary gland to work harder. This in- creases stress on the udder. Under such conditions, good management will keep mastitis in check. What About Feeding And Udder Edema?
Several experiments have shown that neither the bulkiness of the grain nor the amount fed during the dry period has much effect on udder edema at calving time. Nor does feeding determine how long the swelling persists after calving. Udder swelling seems to be more a matter of inheritance than of feeding practice. Do Dairy Herds Need A Vitamin A supplement?
Vitamin A deficiency in dairy cattle is rarely a problem if cows are on pasture or receiving green chopped forage during the summer months. Eowever, it may occur after prolonged periods of feeding poor-quality
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roughage the year round or when cattle subsist largely on concentrates with small amounts of good hay. Dairymen who have some doubt about vitamin A intake in their herds may want to feed a supplementary source of vitamin A. A feed supplement providing 10,000 international units of vitamin A per cow daily should be sufficient. What Are The Benefits Of Pelleted And. Wafered Hay?
If the quality of hay put into wafers, pellets or standard bales is the same, you can expect the amount of hay consumed and the amount of milk produced to be about the same. Butterfat tests may drop when only pelleted hay is fed. Making some long hay or silage available with the pellets usually eliminates the problem. Butterfat tests are not affected by unground hay fed in wafered form. What About Antibiotic Supplements?
In controlled experiments, antibiotic supplements have not caused a significant boost in milk production. When milk production falls from such diseases as bacterial diarrhea, foot rot and respiratory infections, removing the stressing agent can boost production. In these cases, it's best to have a veterinarian prescribe specific control measures.
Dairymen interested in the "Dairy Feeding Suggestions" leaflet can get a copy from their county farm adviser or from the University of Illinois College of Agriculture in Urbana.
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NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE URBANA, ILLINOIS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Oriented Corn Shows Promise
tjreANA — A simple, inexpensive attachment to the boot of a normal corn planter may pave the way for more efficient production by allowing corn plants to grow in the same direction. But at present this work, called orienting corn, is strictly experimental, cautions Univer- sity of Illinois agronomist A. L. Lang.
This year's corn yields on the Ward Reynolds farm near Oneida favored, oriented corn. While the increases were not great, neither was the cost of the attachment.
Why may orienting corn be important? There's evidence that corn planted and growing in the same direction makes better use of the sun's energy than normally planted, corn at a time when light is essen- tial, says Lang.
In this year's study, almost 60 percent of the kernels were oriented with a planting rate of 18,500 per acre. With a rate of 21,500, more than 55 percent of the kernels oriented. Under conventional plant- ing with these respective plant populations, about 38 percent of the kernels oriented.
Next year's plan for oriented corn work calls for more refine- ment in the experiment, says Lang. With the orienting arrangement on only one planting boot this year, Reynolds could plant only two rows of oriented corn next to two rows of conventionally planted corn. Next year Reynolds will have the help of a machinery company in refining his orienting attachment. Then it will be possible to check yields on four- consecutive rows of oriented corn instead of this year's two rows.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27, 196!
Protozoa Can Survive For Months When Frozen
URBANA — A one-celled organism or protozoan that causes abor- tion in cattle can survive for at least six months when frozen in a super-deep freeze, Dr. Norman Levine, University of Illinois parasitol- ogist, reported at the 14th annual meeting of the Society of Protosool- ogists in Denver.
The fact that these protozoa, called Tritrichomonas foetus, can live so long while frozen is important for two reasons, according to Dr. Levine. First, semen for artificial insemination of cattle is preserved by adding glycerin and freezing. If these organisms are present in the semen, they can live to cause abortion.
Second, studying protozoa has been time consuming and costly because scientists must constantly cultivate them. Freezing is more efficient and much cheaper, according to Dr. Levine.
Dr. Levine' s paper, "Survival of Tritrichomonas foetus upon
extended, frozen storage, " deals with the length of survival of protozoa
under various temperatures. Most protozoa frozen at -18 and -98 degrees
F. died, after 128 days. Those that lived, he said, were sluggish and
inactive.
But, when protozoa are frozen at a much lower temperature, -140 degrees F., the ones that survive the first few days survive well even after 512 days.
Dr. Levine presented the paper during the four-day conference which began December 27. The paper was written in conjunction with Mr. Ferron L. Andersen, a former U. of I. graduate student.
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FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 27 , 196.1
Report Second Case Of Infection With Theileria
URBANA — For the second time in North America, a case of in- fection with Theileria, a blood parasite of cattle, sheep and other animals, has been reported.
The case was presented, to the Society of Protozoologists in a report written by Dr. Wilhelm Schaeffler, former University of Illi- nois graduate student, on December 27 in Denver.
According to the report, Theileria was recently discovered in a white-tailed deer from Missouri.
There are several species or kinds of Theileria. One species, Theileria parva, causes east coast fever in African cattle. This dis- ease kills 90 percent of its victims.
Until Theileria was discovered in Missouri, the parasite had been reported only once in North America. Strict quarantine regulations for cattle and other livestock from Africa, Asia and parts of Europe where Theileria is prevalent have kept this parasite out of the United States.
Dr. Schaeffler made a thorough study of the strain of Theileria found in Missouri. It was fatal to deer, he reported, but it could not be passed on to cattle or sheep.
In addition to studying the parasite, Dr. Schaeffler developed a diagnostic test that can be used successfully for detecting any strain of Theileria.
The test, a capillary agglutination test, consists of mixing
the animal's serum with a solution containing Theileria. If the animal
being tested is infected, clumps will form in the capillary tube con- taining the mixture.
Because Dr. Schaeffler was unable to attend the Denver meeting, Dr. Norman Levine, U. of I. parasitologist, presented his paper.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lagoons Offer Most Economical Hog Manure Disposal Method
URBANA — New systems of specialized livestock and poultry pro- duction are lowering the favorable opinion of manure that farmers and. scientists have held for many years. In confinement hog production, manure may cost more to handle and spread on the field than it is worth as fertilizer.
After a study of confinement hog production on Illinois farms, Roy N. Van Arsdall, USDA agricultural economist at the University of Illinois, believes that using a lagoon system to dispose of manure in liquid form and buying commercial plant foods to supply crops is the most profitable combination for the average farmer.
With a lagoon system, the operator flushes the manure from the buildings and lots into a lagoon or pond, where it is stabilized by bacterial action. Cities and factories have used this waste disposal method for many years, but only in recent years has it come into use for animal production.
Manure handling is a costly part of confinement hog production Van Arsdall estimates that cleaning buildings and handling manure takes three-fourths of the labor used in confinement growing and finishing of hogs.
Most farmers now finishing their hogs in confinement put bedding in their barns and remove the solid manure with tractor-powered equipment. But most newly designed finishing buildings provide for
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handling manure as a liquid. The manure is scraped or flushed from the feeding floor each day and is carried, by water to a storage tank or disposal area. Slatted floors may be used extensively in the future to ease the job of cleaning.
Some farmers have attempted to store and spread liquid manure. They use a, concrete storage tank holding 25 to 30 gallons per hog and an electric auger to pump the manure from storage to a tractor-drawn applicator tank holding 500 to 1,000 gallons. Such equipment costs about $2 per market hog for a producer with 2,500-hog capacity. But if he raises only 250 hogs, it will cost him about $6 a hog. Annual costs for storing, pumping, hauling and spreading liquid manure range from about 60 cents to $1.28 per hog, depending on the size of the operation.
Building the lagoons for disposing of liquid manure costs from 30 to 80 cents per market hog, depending on size of operation. Oper- ators using the lagoons find that maintenance costs are low. And they eliminate the costly and disagreeable task of pumping, hauling and spreading manure throughout the year. All of the fertility value of the manure is lost, however.
The value of the manure as fertilizer depends on how it is handled. Van Arsdall estimates that fresh manure from a hog growing from 50 to 220 pounds is worth about $1.62 based on 1960 fertilizer prices. If a hog producer could preserve all of this fertility value, he could realize about $1 per hog above costs from using the manure compared with regular commercial fertilizer.
But ideal conditions for maintaining the full fertilizer value are seldom possible. The typical producer will probably lose one-half to three-fourths of the fertility value in hog manure that is handled
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as a liquid, Van Arsdall points out. The nutrient losses begin on the feeding floor and continue while the manure is in storage and lying in the fields. Also, much of the potential value is lost when manure is spread. on low-value crops and wasteland at certain times of the year.
A producer who could manage to recover half the original value of his manure could pay the extra storage and spreading costs and realize about $1.20 an hour for his labor, Van Arsdall figures. Larger operations might do a little better, since the equipment can be used to better advantage.
But if fertility losses run greater than 50 percent, the ma- nure will not pay the additional costs of getting it on the land, Van Arsdall concludes.
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