LIBRARY OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
£30.7
AGRICULTURE
Digitized by the Internet Archive
in 2011 with funding from
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
http://www.archive.org/details/farmradionews1958univ
IIVEjRSITY OF ILLINOIS
Radio News
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gibberellin Shows No Value for Soybeans
URBANA- -Gibberellin, the wonder treatment that has produced
some amazing results on ornamental and vegetable plants, has shown no
effects on soybeans.
R. W. Howell, plant physiologist with the U. S. Regional Soy-
bean Laboratory at the University of Illinois, reports that 1957 tests
included seed treatment and sprays on growing plants. Neither showed
any indication of possible commercial use for gibberellin on soybeans.
The major soybean varieties grown in the middle west were
included in tests at the University of Illinois agronomy farm at Urbana
at northern Illinois experiment field at DeKalb and on a private farm
in Christian county.
Howell reports that the gibberellin did not injure the plant?-
There just wasn't any difference in yields or in the chemical composi-
tion of the beans between treated and untreated areas.
Some further tests are planned for 1958 to confirm 1957 find-
ings.
-30-
HDGtcm
1/3/58
■
■
•
'
■
*
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nutrition Conference at Urbana January 30
URBANA — More than 300 agricultural scientists and members of
the feed industry are expected at the sixth annual Feed and Nutrition
Conference at the University of Illinois on Thursday, January 30.
Program topics for the morning session include chemical
analysis of feeds and their implications, a chick assay for evaluating
protein supplements, the amino acid story for swine and phosphorus
supplements and their availability.
Guests at the afternoon session will hear about the nutri-
tional aspects of feeding high-moisture corn, improvement of dairy
cattle feeding, a panel discussion of pelleting feeds for livestock
and poultry, recent developments in ruminant nutrition and the use of
tranquilizers in the livestock industry.
Registration for the conference begins at 8:00 a.m. in the
Illini Union ballroom. T. S. Hamilton, associate director of the Illi-
nois Agricultural Experiment Station, Urbana, is scheduled to welcome
the conference visitors. Alvin Lovekamp, New Berlin feed manufacturer,
who is president of the Illinois Feed Association, also will help to
open the program.
Guest speakers on the program include S. W. Hinners, Southern
Illinois University; M. B. Gillis, International Minerals and Chemical
Corporation; W. M. Beeson, Purdue University; and O. G. Bentley, Ohio
Agricultural Experiment Station.
University of Illinois staff members on the program will be
Joseph Kastelic, D. E. Becker, K. E. Harshbarger, A. H. Jensen, R. J.
Webb, K. E. Gardner, F. C. Hinds and A. B. Hoerlein.
-30-
RAJtcm
1/2/58
..
■
_;-■■. . ., • ■■ , -
a:
. o
:
■
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Move Junior Chicken Contest Deadline to March 1
URBANA — Illinois 4-H and vocational agriculture members with
poultry projects will observe a deadline date of March 1 for entries
in the 1958 Junior Chicken-of-Tomorrow contest.
0. F. Gaebe, state leader of agricultural 4-H Clubs at the
University of Illinois, reminds the junior growers that hatching dates
this year will be March 24, 25, 26 and 27 for contest entries.
An entry shall consist of 50 cockerel chicks of one breed,
strain or cross, Gaebe says. Contestants may submit more than one
entry so long as each is of a different breed, strain or cross. Con-
testants are urged to grow larger broods, but entries for final judging
must come from the 50 banded chicks in each entry.
Local hatcherymen from whom the contestants buy the chicks
will get the necessary wingbands and hatching certificates from
Clarence Ems, poultry division of the State Department of Agriculture,
Springfield. Birds must be banded as day-old chicks.
Contestants will deliver 10 live cockerels from the banded
birds to Armour Creameries, Lincoln, between 8:00 a.m. and 2r00 p.m.
CDT on May 21. The best eight cockerels will be considered in making
the final placings.
Judging will start at 9:00 a.m. on May 23 at the Armour
Creameries. The processing plant will pay prevailing broiler market
price for all entries. A premium will be paid on the basis of one cent
a pound for the total number of Grade A birds of each entry.
Cash prizes and ribbons furnished by the Illinois Poultry
Improvement Association will be awarded to winners in three sections,
with trophies to the first five state winners. Ask your county farm
adviser or your vocational agriculture teacher for full information
and official entry blanks.
-30-
RAJtcm
1/2/58
.
•:
■ :
'
!
'
- • .
'
••
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Report Costs and Incomes for Soil Bank Bids
URBANA-- Guides for Illinois farmers who want to bid on the
new experimental soil bank program were given today by University of
Illinois agricultural economists R. A. Hinton and D. F. Wilken.
These estimates are based on incomes received over and above
direct costs from 1951 to 1957 and allow for use of the farmer's labor
in other employment. Central and northern Illinois farmers will find
bids of $26 to $40 needed to cover interest on their investment, taxes
and general farm expenses, whether the land is farmed or not.
In southern Illinois, incomes over direct costs will run from
$15 to $30 after deduction for labor that would be employed elsewhere.
The economists emphasize that rotations and yields will
greatly affect the amount of income over costs. In central and northern
Illinois, where corn averages 90 bushels, soybeans 30 bushels, oats 50
bushels and wheat 30 bushels, differences range from about $35 to $49.
On Cisne silt loam, a soil typical in southern Illinois, income over
costs under different cropping systems range from about $18 to $26.
But these incomes also include payments to the farmer for his
labor, part of which could be used elsewhere if the whole farm were in
the soil bank. This will run from $6 to $8 an acre on most Illinois
farms.
To get a fair return for land put into the soil bank, the
economists emphasize that a farmer should get a reasonable return on his
investment in land and buildings. In addition, he should be able to
-more-
'
■ - ■ •
'
■
.....
■
.
1i
-
■
_
.
>
■ . '
•
Add Soil Bank - 2
pay his taxes and have enough to cover general farm expenses, such as
building and fence maintenance and weed control.
A farmer would need a payment of $16 an acre to get a 4 per-
cent return on land worth $400 an acre. Taxes may be as high as $4 an
acre on some farms. General farm expenses may run $2 to $3 on many
farms. County farm advisers can supply more detailed information on the
Income and costs from different crops and rotations.
Avoiding risks is one problem that can be solved by putting
Land into the soil bank for five years, A guaranteed income may be
/orth several dollars an acre to some farmers. This is something all
:hose bidding on the soil bank program will want to keep in mind, the
;conomists conclude.
-30-
iDGtcm
L/2/58
.
•
• ■ ' ;
'■:'•''
...
1
'
- '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
School Needs Conference Set for January 14
URBANA — The Illinois Council on Community Schools and the
University of Illinois will sponsor a conference on community schools
on January 14, D. E. Lindstrom, UI rural sociologist and chairman of
the program committee, announced this week.
The morning session will focus on organizing and developing
community schools. Presenting their views will be Louis Bottino, ad-
ministrative assistant, Joliet public schools; Virgil Judge, superinten-
dent of schools, Mattoon; Merle R. Sumption, UI College of Education;
and Lindstrom. Lucille Goodrich, Livingston county school superinten-
dent, will lead the audience discussion.
The afternoon session will cover financing of community
schools. Presenting their views will be H. S. Dawson, president of
the Illinois School Board Association; Albert Cross, Illinois Agricul-
tural Association; and Velma B. Crain, Taxpayers Federation of Illinois,
William P. McLure, director of the Bureau of Educational Research, Uni-
versity of Illinois, will discuss "Bringing the Financial System for
Schools Abreast of Educational and Economic Demands."
The conference will be held in the Illini Union Building on
the University of Illinois campus. Lindstrom emphasizes that all cit-
izens interested in improving community schools are cordially invited
to attend. The program should be of special interest to farmers, tax-
payers, county superintendents, school administrators, county farm and
home advisers, school board members and P.T.A. groups. Registration be-
gins at 9:00 a.m. and the program will start at 9:45.
-30r
HDGrcm
1/3/58
•
I
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
lat Flu Not Contagious to People
URBANA — Despite many similarities to human flu, cat flu is
ot contagious to human beings, says Dr. Dragutin Maksic of the Uni-
ersity of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine,
The veterinary medical term for this disease is infectious
eline pneumonitis, which means a contagious pneumonia of cats.
Cats that sneeze, have increased temperatures and are de-
ressed probably have cat flu. During these first signs, however, the
ppetite is seldom impaired.
After two days the cat will have discharging eyes and nose in
ddition to coughing and sneezing. The discharge may cause the eyelids
o stick together and the nostrils to plug.
Most cases, if properly cared for, will recover after 10 to
4 days. But a small percentage of infected cats develop complications,
heir breathing is labored, they sneeze, cough, shake their heads, and
how effects of blindness. Their movements are not coordinated and
ppetites are impaired. Cats with complications may die from pneumonia,
r they may not recover for many months.
Sulfa drugs and antibiotics, properly used, are of some bene-
it in treating cats with pneumonia. But most important is nursing sick
nimals.
Keep infected cats in a warm, dry place. Wash the eyes care-
ully and keep the nostrils open by cleaning. Consult a veterinarian
t the earliest signs of illness.
-30-
ER:cm
/3/5S
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending January 3; 1958)
New Year Brings Questions in Grain Price Trends
URBANA--With the harvest and immediate post-harvest periods past, new
factors are now due to enter the market, according to the University of Illinois
grain marketing staff.
In the corn market, rate of use, farmer sales and CCC sales need to be
watched carefully for the next five months.
Corn disappearance from farms for the last quarter of 1957 will be known
in about a week. Total use figures will not be available for about three weeks.
Farmer sales are a second important market factor. We know that much of
the corn on farms is of questionable keeping quality. But the amount may be exag-
gerated. This often happens when something is talked about so much.
The Commodity Credit Corporation has been out of the domestic market for
about six weeks. It usually drops out at harvest and resumes sales in February. How
much it sells will be important in setting corn prices. It is hard to see how the
CCC can avoid large sales in the domestic market if it is to meet its announced sales
goals for this season.
In the soybean market, weak prices for oil and meal, small processing mar-
gins and the loan rate are the main factors that will affect the market. It is now
expected that enough soybeans will move into the loan to force prices up to the
government sales price next summer.
Rate of farmer sales should be watched carefully. So far it looks as if
farmers will not sell in volume except at prices near the loan.
Processors are caught in a very tight squeeze. How long they will con-
tinue to crush beans at a loss in a year when total crush will reach a new record
-more-
.
.
.
■
■ ■
■
..-"■.'■-•
.
'
.
.
■ .
:
■
!
• •. ■
..
-
-
■
i
.'
a •
-2-
is a big question. Oil export prospects are also uncertain. So far business under
Public Law 480 has been disappointing.
Price reactions on corn and soybeans during harvest time have been very
mild. Soybeans reached their low of about $2,05 on October 1, advanced to $2.17
on December 6 and have since declined to about $2.12, Corn reached its low on
November 1 at just under $1.00 for No. 2 yellow, climbed to $1.09 on December 6 and
now has settled to $1.06.
Futures price changes have been more extreme. Beginning September 4,
March soybeans dropped from $2.44 to $2.33 on September 30, then recovered to $2.43
on October 17 and have steadily lost ground since then to about $2.28 at this time.
So while cash soybeans have gained 7 cents from the harvest low, futures have dropped
5 cents.
March corn hit $1.24 on November 1 and is currently at about $1.15. So
while cash corn has gained 6 or 7 cents, March futures have dropped 8 or 9 cents.
Congress will convene soon, and politics will affect new crop prices.
New crop wheat prices especially should be watched carefully as news comes from
Washington.
-30-
HDG:cm
1/3/58
1
■
■
.
'■
■
-
■
Farm News
IIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Junior Dairy Calf Sale February 22
URBANA — Saturday, February 22, has been set as the date for
the 10th annual 4-H and FFA Dairy Calf Sale at Urbana.
J. G. Cash, extension dairy specialist at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture, says that breed committees have al-
ready selected about 100 purebred dairy calves in their respective
breeds for the sale. Breed representatives are anxious to provide the
best possible calves for the sale.
As soon as catalogs are off the press, one copy will be sent
to each vocational agriculture teacher and each county farm adviser in
the state, Cash says. Only bona fide Illinois 4-H or FFA members are
eligible to buy at this sale.
-30-
RAJ:Cm
1/7/58
.
■ -
.".
* ■ . '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Accident Prevention Is a Moral obligation
URB ANA- -Accident prevention is a moral obligation for each
of us. But every day on the highway people who think of themselves as
religious are guilty of conduct that denies almost every principle of real
religion. They disobey laws, they ignore the golden rule, they are
selfish and rude.
In only half a century we have become a nation of wheels,
tfith 55,000,000 motor vehicles on our highways. We not only live by
bhe motor car— we also die by it, points out O. L. Hogsett, extension
safety specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
As individuals in an organized society, we have not grown up
bo our automobiles. We are still adolescent. We mistrust our laws
and regard enforcement as a game between driver and policeman.
We think of driving as an inherent right, although legisla-
tures and courts have repeatedly declared it a revocable privilege,
^nd our traits of showing off, blaming the other fellow and trusting
that everything will turn out all right come into full flower behind
the steering wheel.
The automobile has carried us far, but it is time for all
Americans to slow down and face up to their responsibilities. Safety
is everybody's responsibility. We need to face up to our moral obli-
gation and become safety conscious not only behind the wheel of a car,
but at all times.
-30-
OLHrcm
1/7/58
.
.
.'
I
■
■
■
; '
'
:
•
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Automatic Unloader for Flat-Bottom Bins
URBANA — Farmers can work flat-bottom bin storage into an
automatic feed-handling system with a new unloader developed at the Uni-
versity of Illinois.
H. B. Puckett, USDA agricultural engineer working in collab-
oration with the UI department of agricultural engineering, developed
the unloader design. He says many farmers have not installed automatic
systems because they did not want to replace their present flat-bottom
storage bins.
A sweep auger in the new unloader gathers material from the
sides of the flat-bottom bin and delivers it to a small hopper in the
center of the bin. A discharge auger in the hopper takes the material
to an outside conveyor. This unloader differs from most other flat-
bottom bin unloaders in that it permits complete automatic unloading
of the stored material without the need to use a shovel.
Flat-bottom bins cost less to build than hopper-bottom bins,
Puckett points out. Also, farmers will not have trouble with feed
bridging in flat-bottom bins equipped with the unloader as they might
in hopper bins.
No unloaders of this design are commercially available at
present. Several commercial farm equipment companies are working on
their own versions of this idea and may have models on the market soon.
-30-
RAJrcm
1/7/58
- . . • - - -
• 2 J I
'•''•■ '
... - • ' - ' ■'
. n d
. . . . - •
' '■■ ■
.• =' • "'■•
'■ ■ 'c ■ I
• "■ ■■■-.'
...•-•
I
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dean Howard, Earl Hughes Attend Conference In India
URBANA — Dean Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois
College of Agriculture will leave January 10 for Delhi, India, to con-
fer with Indian officials and representatives from other American uni-
versities on mutual assistance programs in the field of agricultural
research and education.
Dean Howard will be accompanied by Earl Hughes, prominent
McHenry county farmer and member of the University of Illinois Board of
Trustees, Agricultural representatives from Ohio State University,
Kansas State College and the University of Tennessee also will attend
the scheduled conferences.
An all-India conference on agricultural problems is set for
January 23 and 24 in Delhi followed by a regional meeting at Kanpur on
January 30 and 31.
Dean Howard and Hughes also will confer with Indian officials
on the possible need for expanding the contract of cooperation between
the University of Illinois and the North Central Indian states of Uttar
Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. This contract, financed by the International
Cooperation Administration, covers mutual programs of cooperation and
collaboration between the University and 16 agricultural and veterinary
colleges and institutes in the two Indian states.
Under this agreement the University now has seven staff
members in India serving as technical specialists. There also are four
Indian educators and research workers studying in the College of
-more-
■■-.
"
'
'
•
.
.
.
■
•
V
.
-
.
' : "
&dd India - 2
Agriculture at Urbana as part of the program. Ten more are expected
about the first of February.
The expanded contract would include work already approved by
the government of India to establish a new rural university on the
state farm in Uttar Pradesh, Preliminary plans for this university were
firawn up by Associate Dean H. W. Hannah, who served as group leader for
the University of Illinois staff in India in 1956 and 1957.
Dr. L. E. Card, former head of the department of animal
science, was named group leader in October and is now stationed in
LiUcknow.
-30-
IRtcm
L/7/58
•
.
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cattle May Lack Vitamins A and D in Winter
URBANA — Winter vitamin deficiency troubles in cattle are
caused by lack of sunshine and green feeds, says Dr. D. I. Newton of
the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine.
Vitamin D comes from sunshine, and vitamin A is supplied
chiefly by green grass. Yellow corn is also an important source of
vitamin A.
A slow-down in gains and higher susceptibility to cold-like
infections may be major signs of vitamin A shortage. Watery eyes,
coughing and nasal discharge may be part of this chain of symptoms, but
they may also be caused by other conditions.
Night blindness may develop in some cases, and economic
losses may become severe, especially in younger animals. It is impor-
tant that these signs be studied by a veterinarian to determine the
exact nature of the difficulty.
Hay has to be of top quality and sun dried in order to provide
the needed vitamin D. The more that good hay is sun cured, the more
vitamin D it will contain. However, it will then contain a smaller
amount of vitamin A.
Rickets are the most common expression of vitamin D deficiency.
Rickets cause the bones to become crooked, misshapen and soft, and the
joints to enlarge because of lack of calcium and phosphorus. The real
need for vitamin D is shown by the fact that, even if phosphorus and
calcium are plentiful in the ration, the animal cannot use them unless
there is also plenty of vitamin D.
-more-
flfi
. - ■ -
■ .
: " '
'■ ' ; '
i
... • '■
■
■ • .' ' '
r
hdd. Vitamins - 2
Providing plenty of well-cured, green leafy hay will do much
to eliminate the danger of vitamin D deficiency. Grass silage and
silage made from other green crops are also excellent sources of
/itamin D.
New-born calves do not generally need vitamin supplements
provided they get plenty of the first milk or colostrum. The colos-
:rum will be very rich in vitamins if the cow has had a good ration and a
Long enough dry period. The veterinarian can answer questions concern-
ing vitamin requirements.
-30-
TER:Cm
L/7/58
.
1
..;-■..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
5rain Sorghum Not Yet Equal to Corn
URBANA — Corn is still king in Illinois, Research tests con-
ducted by a University of Illinois agronomist in 1957 show that corn
fields are superior to grain sorghum yields when moisture is plentiful.
C. N. Hittle reports that in Champaign county corn yielded
L15 bushels an acre, while hybrid grain sorghums growing beside it
fielded only 96 bushels. The standard sorghum varieties yielded only
J3 bushels. These results are typical of what you can expect when corn
las good growing conditions, Hittle points out.
Where wet weather delayed planting at the Brownstown experi-
ment field in Fayette county, corn and grain sorghums were planted side
>y side on July 10. Although the corn was very late and poor in quality,
it made 51 bushels an acre. Hybrid sorghums made 31 bushels, and
standard types only 23 bushels. However, the best early-maturing hybrid
sorghum made 44 bushels,
Hittle emphasizes that, although the corn yielded better in
:he Brownstown test, the sorghum was of much better quality. Although
sorghums will mature when planted late, he doesn't recommend late plant-
ing when they can be planted earlier.
A test in Mason county gave grain sorghums their real chance
:o outyield corn. Here the sorghums and corn were planted on a very
sandy soil. No rain fell during July and August. One hybrid grain
sorghum yielded 30 bushels an acre, while the hybrids averaged 22
Dushels. The standard sorghums made 16 bushels. The corn yield dropped
bo 11 bushels.
-more-
■
■ ■ ' ■
. . - ■ ;:
• •:. " • ' •
I ■ • •■. ' • •.
- : . I .',-•. '- ■
... , . I
.... • . ■ , • ,;:- . ' . '
• ' ! " "'
'
i
.
: ■
: ■ "
■
.
• ■ ■ •
Add Sorghums - 2
So, on sandy soils where moisture is limited, sorghums are
likely to do better than corn, Hittle concludes.
Sorghum demonstration plots were also planted at the northern
Illinois experiment field at DeKalb. But migratory birds destroyed at
least half of the seed heads, making accurate yield measurement impos-
sible.
Farmers who are especially interested in knowing more about
the place of grain sorghums in Illinois will be able to hear all about
it during the Farm and Home Festival on the University of Illinois
campus March 27-29. The special sorghum program is scheduled for Fri-
day, March 28.
-30-
HDG : cm
1/7/58
:
•
-
. '
--
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS ■ COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Announce Plans for Farm and Home Festival
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture
today released preliminary plans for the first Farm and Home Festival
ever staged by the College for the people of the state.
The Festival will be held March 27, 28, and 29 with dramatic
exhibits, displays and demonstrations built around the theme, "The
Wonder Worlds of Farm and Home Progress."
According to Dean Louis B. Howard, the Festival will feature
six major exhibit areas on the south campus of the University, where
students and staff members of the College will show "science in action
to serve the farm and the home." The exhibits and displays will show
both the exciting results of research and the painstaking methods used by
scientists in producing these results.
In addition to the six major exhibit areas, the Festival will
feature an outstanding speaking program, the Town and Country Art Show
and the Town and Country Talent Show. A square dancing party is
planned for Thursday evening, March 27, and students of the College of
Agriculture are sponsoring their annual "Plowboy Prom" as the Festival
finale on Saturday night, March 29.
-more-
•
■ • ■ , •:-...
■
' ■■■:■
... • . • :.-• 1C ..- ■ •
... -..;: • • • ■ "■ ■
: : ■ ' ■■
■
• . • . ' • I ' ■ I • -
■ ■• ^s
• • ■ • • . •■•••■
■
-■
Add Farm and Home Festival - 2
Dean Howard said today that plans were being made for as many
as 25,000 visitors to attend the Festival during the three days.
Exhibit Area 1 of the Festival will feature scientific prog-
ress in the world of plants. Here visitors will see a panoramic ex-
hibit portraying the history and development of the soybean in Illinois.
They will learn how research has been used to improve breeding tech-
niques, growing practices and harvesting methods. Another exhibit will
show, through an ingenious mechanism, what happens to soil water during
the full 12 months of the year. By examining the internal structure of
a plant, visitors will be able to see how the plant turns water, air
and nutrients into growth, other exhibits will feature scientists'
everlasting fight against insect pests and diseases, the step-by-step
process in the discovery of a new antibiotic and the search for new
fungicides.
The world of animals is featured in Exhibit Area 2. Here
the famous dairy cow with the "window" in her side will be on display,
and visitors will learn how this animal helps research men learn more
about the digestive process of dairy animals. In another exhibit the
stomach from a cow will be kept "alive" and go on digesting feed with
the aid of artificial heart and lungs. Visitors will also see the use
that's made of rats, mice, chicks, guinea pigs and rabbits in the
scientific investigation of nutrition. There will be other exhibits
on automation in the swine industry, crossbreeding of dairy cattle and
livestock pest control.
-more-
.
".
,
•
-
■
. ■ •
■
..
'
■
'
■-
■r ■ .? v/c:
. -
I
•
■
Add Farm and Home Festival - 3
Modern progress in engineering the corn crop establishes the
theme for Exhibit Area 3. Here visitors will see man's perfection of
machines from tillage implements to push-button systems for loading and
unloading silos.
Water will "boil'1 until it "freezes" in a dramatic demonstra-
tion of freeze-drying in Exhibit Area 4, which is devoted to the world
of processing and distribution. Visitors will also see how atomic rays
are being used in the preservation and storage of foods, while other
exhibits will show the latest methods of preserving food through heat
processing.
Bevier Hall, the beautiful new home of the department of home
economics, furnishes the setting for the displays, exhibits and demon-
strations that make up Exhibit Area 5 on home and family living. Here
visitors will learn how scientists use laboratory animals to determine
the nutritional needs of people. There will be demonstrations on
quantity cookery, flower arrangement, food preparation and choice of
household equipment.
The final exhibit area, devoted to the world of services, will
show how the University's College of Agriculture serves not only the
people of Illinois, but the people of the world.
-30-
HR: cm
1/8/58
'
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sffect of Giant Foxtail on Corn Yields Featured
URBANA — The effect of giant foxtail on corn and soybean
fields will be discussed at the 10th annual Illinois Custom Spray
Dperators' School. That's the latest report from H. B. Petty, chairma.
Df the school and extension entomologist at the University of Illinois
The school, scheduled for January 23-24, begins at 10 a.m.
rhursday in the Illini Union on the University campus. Petty invites
ill custom spray operators, agricultural chemical salesmen and other
Interested persons to attend.
The report on giant foxtail will be given on Thursday by
J. W. Pendleton, University agronomist. Thursday night's session will
:oncern the functioning of new insecticides and herbicides. Purdue
Jniversity entomologist Glen Lehker will participate in the discussion
F. W. Slife, weed control specialist at Illinois, will repor-
:>n simazin, a new pre-emergence herbicide for corn. Slife will also
present other topics, including the formulations and drift hazards of
2,4-D.
Mosquito control, discussed by P. Bruce Brockway from the
nosquito abatement district, Toledo, Ohio, will highlight Friday
norning ' s program.
-30-
PAC : cm
L/10/58
-
■
.
■ ■
...
'
•
.
•
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ist Guides for Figuring Soil Bank Bids
URBANA — Illinois landowners making bids under the new soil
ank program can figure that a reasonable bid will equal about 8 per-
snt of the current conservative value of their land.
This rule- of- thumb comes from agricultural economists at the
niversity of Illinois. They figure that this amount would allow about
percent for interest on the land investment, 1 1/2 percent to pay
axes, and 2 1/2 percent to meet all other general farm expenses,
lese would include building and fence maintenance, weed control and
2eding costs. But landowners will also want to figure in any labor
id machinery expenses they have had in 1958.
However, the economists suggest another more accurate ap-
roach for figuring a bid: A landowner may estimate net income, taxes,
ailding and fence repairs, weed control costs and the annual cost of
seding for each crop acre. If he adds these figures together, he will
Dme up with an amount about equal to what he would get above operating
Dsts if he rented the farm.
F. J. Reiss, specialist in land tenure at the University,
igures that crop-share landlords received the following net income on
ifferent types of soils from 1950 to 1956:
In central and northern Illinois, owners with level to gently
oiling and highly productive prairie soils averaged $21.95 an acre.
In northern and central Illinois, owners with timber or roll-
rig or poorly drained prairie soils netted $18.43.
-more-
•
.'■
■ .
■
Ldd Bids - 2
Owners of slow-draining gray prairie soils with moderate
.oess covering averaged about $12 an acre.
Owners of the lowest producing gray prairie soils with thin
oess covering netted only $8.98.
Owners renting their land face a special problem in making
•ids. Reiss points out that rental agreements for 1958 have been made,
'enants will have little chance to find other land so that they can
ise their machinery, equipment and labor.
So a reasonable bid by a landlord should include a payment
;o the tenant for depreciation and interest on his unused machinery and
:quipment and some payment toward living costs for his unused labor.
Owner-operators face a similar problem with their unused
lachinery, equipment and labor. After this year operators would not
race this problem, since they could find other employment and uses for
heir labor and capital equipment.
-30-
[DG:Cm
./10/58
- ■■--■'-
■ ■ -
i
■■-•■■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service "by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the veek ending January 10, 1958*)
Heavy Soybean Loan Movement Expected; Rising Wheat Supply Ahead
URBANA — Farmers vill probably put enough soybeans into loan by the Jan-
uary 31 deadline to force prices up to the loan rate, the University of Illinois
grain marketing staff reports.
Through mid -December farmers had placed only kl million bushels of soy-
beans under price support compared with 50 million a year ago. But the grain trade
expected this because of the late harvest. So earlier estimates of 100 million
bushels going into loan seem quite likely.
Soybean prices remain in a narrow range of $2.13 to $2.15. During this
past week they moved down 1 l/2 cents a bushel. Higher bids attract farmers to
sell, but they sell very few beans when prices are in the lower part of this range.
Soybean crushers are not buying so many soybeans as they are crushing. Their pres-
ent inventories will last about 2 l/2 months.
Farmers can now sell new crop wheat for July and August delivery for
about $1.65 a bushel. A year ago they could have sold for $2.07. But the loan
rate for new wheat is now $1.7^, national average, compared with $2.00 last year.
Crop prospects have caused this price difference in relation to the loan.
For the past two years the wheat carryover on July 1 has remained steady
or declined moderately. The July 1 carryover will probably be about the same this
year as last. The government has estimated a winter wheat crop of 907 million bush-
els, larger than we've had for several years. We can expect a spring wheat crop of
about 250 million bushels.
-more-
• !
■
.. ..-.-■
■ • .
;ising Wheat Supply Ahead - 2
The winter -wheat crop alone will about equal our normal use in a year.
»o from the 1958 crop we will accumulate a rather substantial addition to the sur-
plus.
There are two possible ways in which new crop wheat prices might go up
his spring* First, growing conditions could turn unfavorable. Second, Congress
light act or plan to act on the loan rate. Such an indication would move prices
■P.
But wheat prices now are probably at least as high as or higher than they
ill be next summer if there is no change in the loan rate or crop prospects.
Corn prices moved up about l/2 cent a bushel during this past week.
rices vary according to delivery time. At present farmers can get $1.05 l/2 for
elivery by January 31; $1.06 l/2 for delivery by February 28; and $1.07 l/2 for
e livery by Karen 31»
-30-
DG:cm
■/10/58
•
.
;
■
....
•
■ , ■ ■
.
'. • . *'
\
Farm News
fERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Stop Complaining About Dairy Foods Cost
URBANA — A dairy scientist at the University of Illinois sug-
gests a moratorium on the complaints about food cost.
Karl Gardner says improvement in the efficiency of food pro-
duction, processing and retailing deserves the praise of the American
consumer, not complaints.
Lack of information about the cost of dairy foods, for ex-
ample, in relation to consumer income causes most of these complaints,
the dairy scientist believes.
The fact is that for about the past four years food in general
has been one of the principal stabilizing factors in keeping the cost-
of-living index from rising even faster. While prices of other things
were rising rapidly, food prices were holding steady or rising very
slowly. Prices of some foods even went down.
Better homes, finer cars, better home appliances, more recrea-
tion, higher taxes and many other things besides food are mainly respon-
sible for the increase in the cost of living, Gardner believes.
As another example, in the dairy field in 1940 one hour's
work in the manufacturing industry would buy at retail 5.16 quarts of
-more-
■
,
Add Dairy Prices - 2
Tiilk. In 1957 the same amount of labor would buy 8.18 quarts. This is
a 60 percent increase in the purchasing power of labor for milk.
An hour's work will buy 50 percent more butter today than it
tfould 17 years ago. These price relationships refer to retail prices.
Dairymen and other farmers are also complaining about prices,
Dut they may have more reason, Gardner points out. Costs of farm ma-
chinery, gasoline, electric power, dairy equipment, fertilizer and la-
Dor that the dairy farmer must pay for have risen constantly. At the
same time, the price that the dairy farmer gets for his milk has stayed
about the same for the past seven years.
People are spending more for food these days, but it is be-
cause they are eating much better and are buying foods that are proc-
essed, prepared and packaged in more attractive and more costly forms.
In spite of this, the average consumer still eats at a cost
Df about 25 percent of his income. This percentage has averaged about
the same for the past 30 or 40 years in the United States, with few ex-
ceptions.
-30-
*AJ:sl
1/13/58
J
: •■
I
' ■ .
■ ■ •
• - '■
. •
.-■■■•■
.'
■ ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
igs Need Balance of Amino Acids
URBANA — Pigs need a balance of the amino acids in their pro-
ein feeds to make fastest growth.
Most rations that include corn and a mixture of supplementary
roteins give the pigs a balance of amino acids, says D. E. Becker,
wine nutrition researcher at the University of Illinois College of Ag-
iculture.
Farmers and feed manufacturers need to know as much as they
an about the needs of pigs for the various amino acids, Becker be-
ieves. For economic reasons they may want to switch ingredients in
heir feeds. The result may be an unbalanced diet.
Experiments have shown, for instance, that a diet for 25-pound
rowing pigs may contain the recommended 18 percent of protein. But
hese pigs may not grow as fast as possible because the proteins they
at are low in certain essential amino acids.
A full report of similar experiments will be given by Becker
s one of the features of the 6th annual Illinois Feed and Nutrition
onference on Thursday, January 30, at the University of Illinois in
rbana. Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. in the Illini Union Ballroom.
Other topics to be discussed in the morning will cover chemi-
al analysis of feeds, a chick assay for evaluating protein supplements
nd phosphorus supplements and their availability.
In the afternoon session, visitors will hear about nutritional
spects of feeding high-moisture corn, improvement of dairy cattle feed-
ng, pelleting feeds for livestock and poultry, recent developments in
uminant nutrition and the use of tranquilizers in the livestock in-
ustry.
-30-
AJtsl
/13/58
!
-
-
■
' ■ -
;
* ■
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
cholarships Available for Short Course
URBANA — Don't let a temporary shortage of cash keep you from
nrolling in the Winter Short Course in Agriculture and Home Economics
t the University of Illinois.
You might be eligible for one of the scholarships, says H. L.
harp, short course supervisor. If you are interested, see your local
ocational agriculture teacher or your county farm adviser, or write
irectly to Sharp, 104 Mumford Hall, Urbana.
These scholarships are being sponsored by the Illinois Bankers
ssociation, Illinois FFA Foundation, International Harvester Company
nd others.
The Winter Short Course is designed for persons who cannot
ttend college regularly, Sharp points out. Courses to be offered will
elp to answer practical farm problems, teach skills and interpret
atest experiment station research.
Registration starts at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, February 3, in
03 Mumford Hall. Classes will end on March 14.
More than 40 applications for registration have already been
eceived in Sharp's office. Anyone 18 years old or more may attend. A
arm background may be helpful, but it is not required.
Short Course students will have all the privileges and social
ctivities available to regular University students, Sharp emphasizes,
xpenses for the six-week course are estimated at between $190 and $230,
ess any money received from scholarships.
Persons planning to attend should send in their applications
or registration by January 24 to the Short Course Supervisor.
-30-
AJ:sl
/13/58
.
n
■
■
.
■ '
:
'
■
■ « •
■
. ■■
■ ' ■ ' ■
■
■
FOE IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University
of Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending February Ik, 1958.)
Fever Farmers Using Corn and Soybean Price Support
URBANA- -Farmers are not putting as much corn into the government loan
program as they did last year. The University of Illinois grain marketing staff
reports that through January 15 growers had put only 80 million bushels under loan
compared with 212 million bushels last year.
Reasons for this drop are the smaller amount of corn eligible for the
high loan this year, the late harvest and the large amount of high-moisture corn.
Although it is still too early to make a final estimate, it appears that the loan
will not be much of a price -supporting factor.
It now looks as if farmers will put less corn into loan than the Commodity
Credit Corporation will sell during the year. If that happens, the government in-
ventory next October 1 would not increase. The only increase in corn carryover
would then be held by farmers, and such an increase is not likely to be large.
This may be the first time since 1951 that we will use up our entire corn
crop. It is too early to make this forecast definitely, but it is a good possi-
bility.
Only the $1.10 loan has a chance of being effective in supporting prices.
But good-quality corn may be worth more than that without the help of the loan.
Current prices of hogs and cattle make corn cheap at $1.00 to $1.10.
On January 15, farmers had placed over 100 million hundredweight of grain
sorghums under loan compared with 17 million at this time last year. This aids
strength to the feeling that the corn carryover will not be increased. Sorghum
and barley <^arryov«*r may increase while corn is being used up.
-mere-
.
»
■
■
• lie
.
'
-
■
.
■
-
-2-
On January 15, farmers had placed 58 million bushels of soybeans into
loan or purchase agreements, about the same amount as a year ago. But total stocks
of soybeans were much higher. Loan movement between January 15 and the January 31
deadline appears to have been large. Even 58 million bushels is large enough to
tighten soybean supplies. Since the carryover is not likely to be more than k$
million bushels, processors and exporters will have to pay the CCC resale price
before the marketing year is over.
Soybean prices will probably increase, but since prices are close to the
loan, this rise will be small. The loan is acting as a support, but it will even-
tually prove to be a ceiling as well.
-30-
HDG:sl
1/1^/58
1
■ .
■
■
■
, 1
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Select Four 4-H National Conference Delegates
URBANA — Four outstanding 4-H Club members will represent the
state's 64,000 4-H'ers at National 4-H Club Conference in Washing-
ton, D.C., next June.
Illinois' 1958 delegates are Sharon Hoffman, 20, Trivoli,
Peoria county; Roldean Cox, 19, Hudson, McLean county; Ronald Harkness,
19, Shirland, Winnebago county; and Raymond Huftalin, 20, Malta, DeKalb
county. They will spend a full week of citizenship training during
their visit to the nation's capital.
The delegates will visit Congress and other governmental
functions and will go on educational tours to historic places in and
around Washington. They will hear some of the top officials in the
government speak on the nature and history of our democratic system and
will meet in discussion groups to summarize what they learn.
Selection to attend National Camp is the highest delegate
honor that a 4-H Club member can achieve, according to Miss Anna Searl
and O. F. Gaebe, state leaders of home economics and agricultural 4-H
21ub work in the state respectively. Delegates are chosen by the state
4-H Club staff at the University of Illinois for their leadership abil-
ity, outstanding achievements in 4-H Club work and participation in proj-
ect and community activities.
Arlene Wolfram and G. W. Stone, members of the state 4-H
staff, will accompany the Illinois delegation this year as state 4-H
staff representatives and chaperons,
-30-
l A J : cm
./14/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
(NOTE OX) EDITORS. This week you will receive the first of the 1958 TIPS FOR ILLINOIS
GARDENERS column, a timely feature to "oe written each week this spring and summer "by
a specialist from the Department of Horticulture. Your comments and suggestions will
he appreciated. EXTENSION EDITORIAL OFFICE)
Pointers in Selecting Vegetable Seeds and Varieties
"by Norman F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA — When you buy vegetable seed this spring, remember to buy from a
reliable company. Reliable firms offer good seed that is clean, has a high percent-
age of germination and is disease free.
The best place to select seeds and varieties is usually through a catalog.
Catalogs offer a wider choice than most stores, and the seed can be ordered now. In
addition, you can select from different companies that will give you a better chance
of getting what you want. If possible, select treated seed because it is better pro-
tected from diseases than untreated seed is.
When you are choosing varieties, buy ones you like, ones that you know
have done well in your area, or ones that are recommended by the University of Il-
linois. You can get the latest suggestions from the University by obtaining a copy
of "Vegetable Variety Recommendations for Illinois." Send your request to the Depart-
ment of Horticulture, University of Illinois, Urbana.
-30-
PAC : cm
L/1V58
!
'
■
.
.
■
'
.
.
'
•
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Electronic "Brain" Predicts Best Corn Hybrids
URBANA — "Illiac," the high-speed electronic computer at the
University of Illinois, is helping agricultural scientists to select
new and better strains of hybrid corn.
R. w. Jugenheimer, in charge of corn breeding work, and W. C.
Jacob, agricultural statistician, have teamed up to turn the old art of
plant breeding into a highly-skilled and exact science.
For example, from 50 parent lines of corn it's possible to
make 1,225 single crosses and 690,900 double crosses. But, the elec-
tronic computer can predict in advance which crosses are most likely to
bring out the desired features in the hybrid corn.
The result is that the scientists need only take 40 or 50 of
the best combinations into the field for testing.
Newest corn hybrids under study carry traits for high oil and
high protein content, Jugenheimer reports. Other desirable character-
istics the scientists are working toward include resistance to European
corn borer, high yield, good standability and proper maturity.
In the tests, the scientists punch the known traits of each
parent corn variety onto cards. The computer then matches up the de-
sired traits into the various combinations. Corn breeders then can
concentrate their field testing work on those parent lines that are
likely to give the most desirable hybrids for farmers to grow.
-30-
HDGrcm
V17/58
FOR RELEASE WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 1958
Top Hybrids of 1957 Named at Crop Performance Day
URBANA — The top performing commercial corn hybrids in 1957
tests conducted by the University of Illinois department of agronomy
were announced today at Crop Performance Day.
These tests were conducted on 412 hybrids grown on 10 fields
over the state. The agronomists stressed that small differences found
in any one year's tests do not necessarily mean the hybrid is superior
to another. Tests covering three or more years are more reliable than
those of only one year.
The following hybrids produced highest yields from 1955 to
1957:
Northern Illinois at DeKalb: Nichols NB-43, P.A.G. 234,
Pioneer 345, DeKalb 459, Doubet D-45, Producers 325.
West north-central at Galesburg: Pioneer 6727, Schwenk
S-34, Producers 13-1, Hulting 380-B, Pioneer 329, Pioneer 313B.
East central at Urbana: Bear OK-96, Whisnand 851, P.A.G.
444, Appl A-159, Frey 692, Pioneer 6727.
Southern at Brownstown: Funk's G-91, Producers 13-1, Tiemann
T-78, Bear OK-69, Moew CB70A, Illinois 1411 (Station) .
Extreme southern Illinois: Stull's 400 (W) , P.A.G. 631 (W) ,
Ainsworth X-14A, DeKalb 925W, Trisler T-32B, Whisnand 830.
At three other locations, tests have been carried out for only
the last two years. These hybrids yielded at the top for 1956 and
1957:
East north central at Ashkum: DeKalb 805, Schwenk S-27,
Schwenk S-26, Pioneer 306B, Pioneer 316, Troyer M-11T.
-more-
■
' ■■--■.,.
.1
• .• :
• ' •' ■ "■"■'
■
.
••
x
.
,
r
. ' - . ■. -
Add Hybrids - 2
West south central at Greenfield: Whisnand 852, Pocklington
P-75A, Pocklington P-78A, Producers 921, Pioneer 6727, Pocklington P-70.
Extreme southern at Wolf Lake: DeKalb 1024, Stull's 400 (W) ,
DeKalb 1023, Ainsworth X-14A, Whisnand 830, Illinois 2214 (W) Station.
The agronomists carried out tests at three other locations
for the fist time in 1957, The top six hybrids at each of these fields
were:
Extreme northern Illinois at Woodstock: Moews 500A, Pioneer
1091, Illinois 1861 (Station), Illinois 1277 (Station), Pioneer 347,
P.A.G. 8884 Experimental.
West central at Bowen: Pioneer 6727, Pioneer 312A, Bruns
Plymouth P-37, Bruns Plymouth P-97, Funk's G-95A, Moews 524.
Central Illinois at Stanford: Bear OK-X600, Moews 524, Moews
CB69A, Pioneer 6727, Stiegelmeier Hi-B-Jack S-396, Whisnand 852.
Some hybrids showed better standing ability than others. In
general, test fields harvested before November 1 showed little lodging,
but this was not true at Galesburg.
Hybrids tested averaged 101.7 bushels an acre. The Urbana
test field topped all other locations with 131,8 bushels.
Complete yields and other performance features of all hybrids
tested can be obtained from Bulletin 622, "1957 Commercial Illinois
Corn Tests, " available from the College of Agriculture, Urbana.
-30-
HDGtcm
1/17/58
i •
-.
• -
■ ■
-
-
-. •
.
•
,
■
'
.
. .
1
I
I
•
.
'
'
. 1
"
• i
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Important to Obey Traffic Laws
URBANA — It is high time that motorists and pedestrians recog-
nize the fact that traffic laws and regulations are made for their pro-
tection, says o. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture,
Too many people are inclined to regard traffic laws and regu-
lations as restrictions on their personal freedom and to ignore them
whenever it suits their convenience. Almost all traffic accidents occur
when one or more traffic laws are violated by motorists, pedestrians or
both, Hogsett says.
It has been estimated that if every driver and pedestrian ob-
served traffic laws and regulations and safe walking and driving rules,
the annual traffic toll would be cut by 85 to 90 percent.
Here are the five most common traffic law violations:
1. Exceeding a safe speed.
2. Failure to give a car on the right the right of way at
intersections.
3. Failure to give pedestrians already in the cross walk the
right of way.
4. Not coming to a full stop at stop signs.
5. Ignoring a red light or a school zone slow sign.
If all drivers would obey these five traffic rules (all
punishable under the law for failure to obey) traffic fatalities would
be reduced considerably in 1958.
-30-
DLHtcm
[1/17/58
J
• ••
• • -
j .
■ ■
■
.
■
■ ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Blood-Sucker Type Louse Most Dangerous
URBANA — A heavy infestation of the short-nosed cattle louse
can cause anemia in an animal and eventual death.
The short-nosed louse seems to prefer adult cattle while the
long-nosed louse is found most often on calves. Dr. T. N. Phillips of
the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine says both
types are blood-suckers.
Another common louse found on cattle is called the round-
headed louse. It is a biting type rather than a blood- sucking type and
is less damaging than the other two. This type of louse lives on skin
scales.
Cattle infested with lice usually rub against fence posts,
buildings, or anything similar that is handy. Affected areas of skin
are irritated and infested cattle may rub off big patches of hair. In
severe infestations large numbers of lice around the eyes and ears re-
sult in a darker color on those areas.
Best method for controlling lice is spraying although dusting
tfith powder also can be helpful. Powders may be preferred during cold
weather. Clipping dairy cattle may also be helpful in controlling lice.
Dr. Phillips recommends consulting a veterinarian before buy-
ing a spray. The veterinarian can give advice on which spray would be
^est for the particular case as well as to help prevent future diffi-
:ulties.
-30-
JER : cm
L/17/53
.
I
... .
■
■ •
E
•
V
'
•
•
.
'
.
-
•
•
•■
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
:orn Borer Outlook Less Serious
URBANA — The Illinois corn borer threat in 1958 is less serious
:han for the past few years,
H. B. Petty, extension entomologist at the University of II-
Linois and Natural History Survey, bases this report on a survey con-
lucted by entomologists last fall. They found the most borers in the
/est central counties. Borer populations are light in the northern
:ounties and not economically important in the southern part of the
state.
Petty suggests plowing corn stalks clean and disking
thoroughly to help prevent borer damage. Not planting too early and
ising a sturdy hybrid will also help prevent damage. Petty points out
:hat early planted corn is most likely to suffer damage from the first
feneration of borers. But if all corn is planted at about the same
:ime in one area, borers will spread out and first generation damage
Jill be less noticeable in any one field.
Petty can't predict now how many second generation borers will
levelop. This will depend mostly on weather conditions and farming
>ractices. Even with fewer wintering borers, first generation borers
:an be troublesome in some areas if weather conditions are favorable
or their survival.
-30-
AC : cm
/17/58
.--
. .
.
• -
'
■
-
.
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sound Waves May Be New Way To Kill Bacteria in Foods
URBANA — Bacteria in food are living on borrowed time in this
age of ultrasonic sound.
Reason is that ultra high frequency sound waves have been
successfully used to kill food-spoiling bacteria in research underway
at the University of Illinois.
R. M. Whitney, professor dairy technology at the College of
Agriculture, is in charge of the research project. If everything goes
well, he suggests that within three or four years researchers may know
if sound waves will be an economical way to kill bacteria in foods. If
this method is successful, the information will be turned over to com-
mercial companies for further development of the technique.
Whitney reports that up to 99 percent of the bacteria were
killed in recent tests using small chambers of bacteria. These tests
were run on one milliliter of a pure bacteria culture. The bacteria
were subjected to UHF sound for one-half hour.
Present "ultrasonic" treatments, however, may damage the
food being tested. As an example, Whitney explains that milk develops
an off-taste and oily texture after being treated.
The dairy technology division started using UHF sound waves
to kill bacteria in 1947. A commercial sound wave generator was first
ased, but was found to be unsatisfactory. Then, with the cooperation
3f the university's biocoustics laboratory in the electrical engineer-
ing department, a new sound wave generator was developed and is now
:>eing used.
-more-
•
•
.
-
I
:
■
• ■ . '
- i
.
■
■
.
■
"
'
i
Add Sound Waves - 2
The new generator distributes sound waves more evenly through
the bacterial culture under treatment. Also, variations in temperature
and radio frequency effects have been eliminated. This makes the tests
more accurate, according to Whitney.
He adds that most of the research to date has been to develop
equipment. Future research will be aimed at finding favorable conditions
to better kill the bacteria in food with the sound waves.
-30-
JLW t cm
1/17/58
■
);
!
FOE IMMEDIATE EELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending January 17, 1958)
Corn and Soybean Stocks on Farms Above Last Year
UBBANA--Large corn stocks on farms January 1 point to a disappointing use
and another carryover increase next October 1, according to the University of Il-
linois grain marketing staff.
On January 1, farmers held 2,^57 million bushels of corn on their farms.
A year ago they held 2,331 million or 126 million less than this year. The rate of
use was smaller from October through December than a year ago. The late harvest may
have caused part of this drop since farmers had less time to feed and market their
crop.
Farmers held 188 million bushels of soybeans on their farms January 1
compared to 169 million a year ago. This sets a new record. Soybean supplies are
abundant. Disappearance off farms during the last quarter of the year was 292
million bushels compared to 280 a year ago. Terminal markets stocks are about 9
million bushels larger and country elevator holdings also appear higher.
USDA estimated that the October 1 soybean carryover might be as low as 25
million bushels compared to earlier estimates of 50 million. The market showed
little effect from this report. The estimate seems too low. From a total supply
of ^91 million, it appears that on the optimistic side we will use 30 million for
seed and other farm purposes, 92 million for export, and 335 million for crushing.
This leaves 3^ million bushels carryover.
The new 1958 soybean crop will probably become available sooner than the
1957 crop. This will mean a shorter period in which to use up the old crop.
During the week, corn dropped off a cent, soybeans gained up a cent and
new crop wheat slumped two cents. Favorable growing conditions weakened wheat
prices. Wheat exports continued large but Canada continued to step up exports
through loans and grants,
-30-
HDG 1 cam
1/17/58
• •■ ■■ ■
.-■■■■
tills
- .
t at
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Parasites Can Be Unseen Tax on Beef Feeders
URBANA — Parasites, both internal and external, can add much
cost to growing beef cattle.
The extra cost comes from the slower gains made by cattle
with a bad parasite infestation, says G. R. Carlisle, extension live-
stock specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Have your local veterinarian check for internal parasites
if your cattle look unthrifty, Carlisle suggests. Then follow his
plan for getting rid of them if he finds any.
Cattle that rub and scratch a lot may have external parasites
like lice or mange. Get rid of these pests with either a lindane or a
^alathion spray. Do not use benzene hexachloride. Spray on a bright,
sunshiny day. Follow the directions on the container.
-30-
j*AJ:cm
L/21/58
•
•
j '. ■•
■
:
'• :
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ninety Percent of Pregnancy Disease Cases Fatal
URBANA — Nine out of 10 ewes with pregnancy disease may die
unless treatment is started promptly.
Dr. E. F. Reber, University of Illinois College of Veterinary
Medicine, says that, unless preventive steps are taken, as many as one-
fourth of the ewe flock may develop the disease.
Pregnancy disease is a highly fatal metabolic disorder.
Ewes between three and six years of age are most frequently affected.
; The disease seldom strikes animals that are not carrying twins or
triplets.
Most cases develop in sheep that are in poor condition and
on inadequate diets. A ewe must exercise to stimulate appetite and
aid digestion and elimination. One way to get the flock to exercise
is to put feed bunks some distance from the sleeping area.
An unbalanced ration, however, reduces the value of exercise.
Dr. Reber recommends feeding plenty of good-quality alfalfa or legume
hay. High-quality grain is also important. Bred ewes should get all
the hay they want in addition to one-fourth pound of grain per day.
Affected ewes become less active than usual and walk slowly.
They often remain away from the rest of the flock. At the first signs
of pregnancy disease in your flock, consult a veterinarian to determine
the best treatment.
-30-
JERtcm
1/21/58
•
!
■.
•
■ •
'
'
•
.
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Managers Plan Look at What ' s Ahead
URBANA — Professional farm managers will get a complete look
at what's new in growing and handling corn on January 30-31 at the
University of Illinois. Those are the dates for the annual meeting of
the Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers.
On Thursday afternoon, J. W. Pendleton, UI agronomist, will
report on the latest developments in corn production, including research
results with minimum tillage, V, W. Davis, USDA agricultural economist,
will report on his research in harvesting, storing and marketing shelled
corn. F. W. Andrew, extension agricultural engineer, will discuss
nechanized feed processing and feeding systems.
Other topics on the program include nutrition and disease
control in beef cattle and swine, condemnation appraisals, services and
costs of professional farm management organizations and the agricultural
md business outlook.
At the Friday luncheon, Karl F. Adams, Bloomington farm
uanager, will speak on "A Farm Manager Looks at Russia." He will report
lis recent experiences on an agricultural mission to that country.
I. C. M. Case will present the 1958 Illinois Society award for outstand-
ng contribution to Illinois agriculture.
All sessions will be held in the Illini Union.
-30-
DG:cm
/21/58
■
'
■ ■
:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Report Time and Cost Savings With Minimum Tillage
URBANA — Corn and soybean yields will not suffer when farmers
cut down on field operations to prepare their seed beds. At the same
time they can save both time and gasoline, research with minimum till-
age at the University of Illinois shows.
During 1957, agronomists and agricultural engineers tried
four different methods of seed-bed preparation. First, they used the
usual method — plowing, disking twice, harrowing and planting — five
trips across the field to get the seed in the ground.
Second, they plowed the ground and planted the seed with no
other working of the soil — two trips across the field.
Third, they plowed the ground, pulled a spike-tooth harrow
over the plowed ground and planted, making only three trips.
Fourth, they plowed the ground and planted the seed in
wheel tracks 40 inches apart, making only two trips over the ground.
The agricultural engineers figure that each trip across the
field costs about 90 cents an acre. So, if a farmer with 100 acres of
corn could save three trips across the field, he could also save $2.70
an acre, or $270, in putting in his corn crop.
Minimum tillage also reduced soil compaction, especially on
soils too wet from heavy rains. It also increased movement of water
into the soil, reduced runoff and cut down early weed growth.
J. W. Pendleton, UI agronomist, reported this week that corn
planted at Urbana in 1957 with the usual seed-bed preparation yielded
-more-
.
-
Add Tillage - 2
128,8 bushels an acre. With the plow-plant method, the yield was 128.2
bushels. Plowing-harrowing-planting produced 128 bushels, and plowing
and then planting in the wheel track, 125.6 bushels. These differences
are not considered significant.
The researchers also tried minimum tillage on soybeans. At
Urbana, soybeans planted in the usual seedbed yielded 40.8 bushels an
acre. With plow-planting they produced 45.7 bushels. With the plow-
harrow-plant method they made 42.9 bushels and with plowing and plant-
ing in the wheel track, 43 bushels. Similar results were obtained at
Brownstown in south-central Illinois and at DeKalb in northern Illinois,
Pendleton emphasizes that agronomists do not expect minimum
tillage to increase yields. The main purpose is to cut costs.
-30-
HDGtcm
1/21/58
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Report Latest Progress in Corn Breeding
URBANA — Some new hybrids now under development at the Univer-
sity of Illinois will contain 30 percent more oil and 10 percent more
protein than normal hybrids. Yet they will yield and stand as well as
normal corn.
R. W. Jugenheimer, University corn breeder, reporting to
farmers and seedsmen at Crop Performance Day (January 22) , said grain
yields, proper maturity, shelling percentage, standing ability, uni-
form ear height and smut resistance were among the traits included in
the new corn hybrids.
During 1957 the corn breeders tested 355 different experimen*
tal double-cross hybrids. More than 300 of these were developed in
Illinois, and the others were the most promising ones developed in
other states. The breeders carried out these tests at five locations
in the state so that the corn could be tested under different soil,
rainfall and growing conditions.
Test fields were located at the Northern Illinois Experiment
Field at DeKalb in Peoria county, the University of Illinois Agronomy
Field at Urbana, the Brownstown Experiment Field in Fayette county and
at Union county in extreme southern Illinois. Hybrids tested on each
field had similar maturity dates.
Superior performing hybrids and modern production practices
by seedsmen and farmers have made Illinois the top state in per acre
corn yields for the past 10 years, Jugenheimer pointed out. With
-more-
•
■
'
-
•
,
Add Corn Breeding - 2
success in producing high yields, breeders are now concentrating more
effort on hybrids that will stand better, have higher protein and oil
content, be easier to harvest with machines, have less ear droppage and
resist insects, diseases, cold and drouth.
Full details on the experimental hybrids of special interest
to seed producers are given in Bulletin 623, available from the Col-
lege of Agriculture at Urbana.
-30-
HDGrcm
1/21/58
,
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Why Have a Vegetable Garden
"by Norman F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA— Your neighbors may be glad to see you plant a vegetable garden
this spring even if you are only lukewarm about the idea.
With a little luck, some good growing weather and a dozen tomato plants,
for instance, you can produce bushels of ripe fruit for two or three months. With
such a crop your neighbors are almost sure to benefit.
A good vegetable garden offers many assets to a family. It not only pro-
duces fresh, nutritious food, but also provides health and recreation to the gardener.
Fresh vegetables direct from the garden are much higher in quality than those generally
sold on the market. And they're available when you want them.
You can grow some things, such as strawberries and sweet corn, much more
cheaply than you can buy them on the market. On the other hand, growing your own
potatoes usually doesn*t save money. A garden can also offer a wide variety from
which to choose, making well-balanced meals easier to plan.
Fresh vegetables help to balance diets and prevent deficiencies in vitamins
and minerals. They help to regulate the work of the body, provide bulk or roughage
and add color, flavor and variety to meals.
No matter where you live, a garden may be a place of pleasure and profit.
To the suburban or city dweller especially, it offers recreation to adults and fas-
cination to youngsters who like to watch plants crow. And there is always the added
satisfaction you will get from eating the vegetables you have grown.
-30-
PAC:cm
1/21/58
[
■
.
;
■. .- ....
: . . .
■
■
. .
. ■
■ - •
:
'
•'
■
■ -
•;'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cutliness
"Gertie" Will Be On Display During Festival
URBANA — "Gertie," the cow with the hole in her side, will be
one of the featured exhibits in the "World of Animals" during Farm and
Home Festival at the University of Illinois from March 27 through 29.
Through this hole, dairy scientists at the University study what hap-
pens inside the cow's stomach when she digests her feed. Here, Dairy
Scientist Richard E. Brown is showing a farm family how the gas prod-
ucts of digestion are the same as energy. The cow doesn't put the gas
into milk and it goes as waste.
-30-
RAJ: Cm
1/21/58
■
'
Farm News
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farmers Net $2.7 Million From Insect Treatment
URBANA — Illinois farmers made an estimated profit of almost
$2.7 million by treating their crops with insecticides during 1957.
H. B. Petty, entomologist with the University of Illinois
College of Agriculture and the State Natural History Survey, made this
report to the Custom Spray Operators School on Friday.
He bases this estimate on acres treated for major insects
and yield increases obtained. County farm advisers helped to gather
this information.
Altogether 934,224 acres were treated. Farmers applied the
treatments on about half of the acreage, and commercial operators did
the rest. Soil insects received the most attention during 1957, with
more than 657,000 acres treated for these pests. Control measures for
corn borers were applied on 165,000 acres. other important insects for
which treatments were applied were fall armyworms, potato leafhoppers
and grasshoppers.
-30-
HDGtcm
V24/5G
'■ c
■
"3-v
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service "by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending January 2U, 1958)
Wet Corn Sales Drop Price to New Low
URBANA — Heavy sales of high-moisture corn dropped prices to $1.00 per
"bushel for No. 2 corn in east-central Illinois this past week. March futures
slumped to the lowest since 19^9»
The University of Illinois grain marketing staff reports that apparently
the corn "being sold will not keep until warm weather, and it is not eligible for
loan. The greatest pressure on the market has come from Minnesota and Iowa corn
moving into the Chicago market.
However, primary market receipts appear to "be declining. So the end of
high-moisture corn movement may be in sight. Farmers this season face a moisture
problem different from that at any other time for many years. They do not know
which corn will keep and which must be sold before spring.
Some corn harvested at 20 to 23 percent moisture and cribbed in October
may be showing signs of damage and need to be moved. Corn cribbed at 20 to 23
percent in late November and December seems to be in excellent condition now but
remains high in moisture for this time of year. This corn may grade No. 2 by
summer, or it may not. Much will depend on weather conditions from now on.
CCC sales are a second factor worrying the grain trade. So far the CCC
has remained out of the domestic market and has tightened up on export offerings
to bolster the price. But in the months ahead the CCC will face inventory handling
problems. Quality problems may be worse this spring than usual.
Even though corn prices are low, hogs are selling for about $20.00.
Twenty-dollar hogs and $1.00 corn are not consistent. Hogs can decline a long
way before a $1.00 corn price is justified for very long.
Corn heating or being damaged should be sold. If it will keep, it
should be held. If there is doubt, it should be watched. High-quality corn
may be scarce next summer.
-30-
HDGtmg
l/2ty58
■
■
.
'.
'
■
.
.
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ensiling Makes Corn Better Cattle Feed
URBANA — Seems as though ensiled corn makes better cattle feed
than regular corn.
In one test at the University of Illinois last year, 16 steer
calves were fed alfalfa silage with corn added at silo-filling time.
At the same time similar steers were fed alfalfa silage made without
preservative but with the same amount of corn added to the silage at
feeding time.
Calves fed silage with ensiled corn gained 2.35 pounds a day
at a cost of $16.13, reports H. G. Russell, extension livestock special-
ist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. Calves fed
similar silage with the corn added at feeding time gained 2.17 pounds
a day at a cost of $17.47.
These results agree with those in similar work at the Iowa
and Indiana agricultural experiment stations.
-30-
RAJ:cm
V28/58
FOR IMyiEDIATE RELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Avoid Spring Rush in Selecting Plants
by H. R. Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA--If you have not yet selected your trees and shrubs for spring
planting, do so now to avoid the spring rush.
Local nurseries are usually the best place to buy your plants. You can
see the trees and shrubs actually growing, and not simply as pictures in a catalog.
Plants carried by local nurseries are usually adapted to your locality. Nurserymen
can help you make selections and can order plants for you that they don't have in
stock.
Nursery catalogs are helpful in selecting trees and shrubs. But don't
let attractive pictures and descriptions sell you plants you don't need. Thumb
through several catalogs, because one nursery doesn't handle nearly all the avail-
able varieties. Ordering plants early will insure their arrival by spring.
Although cash-and-carry sales yards usually operate on a supermarket basis,
they can fill advance orders and you'll have your choice of available stock. A
landscape nurseryman will consult with you on your plant needs. After you select
the trees and shrubs you want, he will buy and plant them when warm weather arrives.
If you wait until spring to consult him, though, the chances are he'll be too busy
to spend much time with you.
The size of trees and shrubs to buy depends mostly on how much money you
want to spend. Seedlings and lining-out stock are the least expensive. But they
should be planted in a nursery a year or so before being put in the landscape set-
ting. Otherwise they'll be stepped on, choked by weeds or cut by the lawn mower.
-more -
•
Add Garden Tips - 2
Medium-sized trees are moderately priced and large enough to see when
planted. Evergreens in this size group are about two feet tall, shrubs three to
four feet, and trees eight to ten feet tall. They will need several years' growth
before they will complete the landscape setting.
Specimen plants are large and give the landscape a finished appearance
immediately after they are planted. They are also the most expensive. And because
it's so difficult to transplant large trees and shrubs, they require careful atten-
tion for at least a year after planting,
-30-
PAC:cam
1/28/58
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, JANUARY 30 , 1958
Drugs Help to Quiet Newly Weaned Calves
URBANA — "Tranquilizer" drugs have a quieting effect on
newly weaned calves.
Dr. A. B. Hoerlein, College of Veterinary Medicine at the Uni-
versity of Illinois, reported tests with tranquilizers at the Dixon
Springs Experiment Station last fall. This report was part of the
program at the 10th annual Illinois Feed and Nutrition Conference on
the University campus today.
Dr. Hoerlein used the tranquilizer, chlorpromazine, in his
tests. He found an almost complete absence of the "fence-walking" and
bawling common in most newly weaned calves. Two- thirds of the calves
were treated. They had a definite sympathetic, quieting effect on un-
treated calves in the same lot.
Similar trials in Nebraska showed a small weight gain for the
first week after weaning in calves treated with tranquilizing drugs,
Dr. Hoerlein reported. Dixon Springs trials also showed a slight but
insignificant weight gain advantage for the "tranquilized" calves.
These new drugs vary widely in their effects, Dr. Hoerlein
pointed out. Some are useful in quieting animals without the stupifying
effects of sedatives. Further research needs to be done, he says,
looking toward possible use of the tranquilizers to prevent shipping
fever and as feed supplements to increase weight gains and to quiet
vicious or nervous animals.
More than 350 feed industry representatives, dealers and
manufacturers and nutrition research workers attended the one-day con-
ference in the Illini Union ballroom.
-30-
RAJ:cm
1/28/58
: • -
. :
....
.
J
■
•
; . ■ .
.
... .•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gives Ways To Increase Dairy Farmers' Incomes
URBANA — A University of Illinois dairy marketing economist
this week recommended ways to increase incomes of Illinois dairy farm-
ers.
R. W. Bartlett made these suggestions before the annual dairy
marketing conference on the University campus:
1. Increase the amount of milk going into fluid use or ice
cream. A program for diverting milk from manufactured products to
Grade A uses will increase returns to Illinois dairy farmers.
2. Cut milk distribution costs so that farmers will get more
of the consumer's dollar spent for milk, Bartlett said that the
Chicago market was making progress along this line compared with other
major markets,
3. Increase milk sales per person. During 1955, milk sales
per person averaged .85 pint in Chicago — about 39 percent above 1940,
During the same period, the national increase was only 15 percent.
4. Increase milk consumption in schools. During 1957, Illi-
nois students drank 28 quarts at school compared with only 15.5 quarts
four years ago.
5. Support and strengthen federal milk orders under which
milk is sold. Bartlett emphasized that federal milk orders have made
orderly marketing possible in the large markets. He recommended that
they be continued and widened to markets not now included.
-more-
:
•"
,
Add Dairy Farmers ' Incomes - 2
6. Push sales of sterile concentrated milk and dry whole
milk powder. Bartlett expects that in years to come sterile concen-
trated milk and dry whole milk powder will be sold in the South and
Northeast, Savings of 5 to 10 cents a quart will be possible in the
high-cost milk areas,
7. Produce as efficiently as possible on the farm. Farmers
in each market receive the same blend price. Those who can produce
the most milk at the lowest cost will come out with the highest profit
-30-
HDG:cm
1/28/58
'
;
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tells Difference Between Flying Ants and Termites
URBANA — Flying insects that you think are termites may
actually be flying ants.
Except for two or three characteristics, these two insects
closely resemble each other, reports H. B. Petty, extension entomologist
at the University of Illinois and State Natural History Survey.
If you inspect their colonies, you'll find that worker ter-
mites are always white. But worker ants may be black or red. The
white objects to be seen in ant colonies are larvae and eggs that are
being carried by the ants.
Termites swarm from early February until June or July,
whereas ants swarm from February until November. So if you ever have
trouble identifying swarming insects in the fall, it's a good bet they
are not termites.
Termites can also be distinguished from ants by their body
structure. Petty explains that both insects have three main segments —
a head, a thorax or middle section and an abdomen. The thorax and ab-
domen of termites are bluntly joined together. Thus they are often
called "blunt-waisted" insects. The thorax and abdomen of ants are
joined together with a slight restriction, giving them a "thin-waisted"
appearance.
A difference in the wing size is one of the easiest ways to
tell these insects apart. The front and back wings of the termite are
the same size, but the front wings of the ant are larger than the back
wings.
-30-
PAO.cm
1/28/58
*
■
■
. ■ • ' ■
.
• : .
.
.
.
. ■
■ .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Test Moldy Grain Before Feeding
URBANA — Farmers should test moldy grain before feeding, says
Dr. G. T. Woods, extension veterinarian at the University of Illinois.
Heavy rains in some areas of Illinois last fall increased
the dangers of mold in feed grains. Mold sometimes causes serious
illness or death of livestock.
Dr. Woods suggests feeding the grain for about two weeks to
one or two test animals of low value. All moldy feed is not necessarily
poisonous, but it is wise to find out first whether it can be safely
fed to animals.
Signs of acute mold intoxication in cattle include depression,
loss of appetite, staggering and pale mucous membranes. Signs in swine
include depression, stiff gait, poor appetite, loss of weight and stand-
ing with head lowered, back arched and flanks tucked up.
Take animals away from a field where there is moldy feed as
soon as any abnormalities are noted. Some signs of mold intoxication
are similar to those of other diseases. Therefore, a veterinarian
should be called immediately to make a diagnosis.
Deaths frequently occur when treatment is given for the wrong
disease or ailment. Dr. Woods recommends consulting a veterinarian
when animals are sick. Keeping livestock away from grain or forage
that has been on the ground too long will pay dividends in animal
health,
-30-
JER:cm
V28/58
■
J
•
.
.
.
Editors: Attached are copies of the top twenty students in the sopho-
more, junior and senior classes of the College of Agri-
culture, 1957-58.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Announce Top Students in College of Agriculture
URBANA-- Students with high scholastic averages in the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Agriculture have been announced by
C. D. Smith, assistant dean.
Top students from this area include c .
Allen Barker, McLeansboro, is the top senior student at the
College this year. He has earned a 4,930 grade-point average for his
freshman, sophomore and junior courses. A 5.000 is equal to an "A."
Paul Watters, Alpha, ranks second to Barker with a 4.847; and Morris
Giuck, Nashville, has earned a 4.759 for his three years of college
work.
The top three junior students are Robert Cassens, Dixon, who
has earned a 4.818; Don Pinney, Roseville, a 4.686; and Glen Gullakson,
Serena, a 4.681. Their averages are cumulative for their freshman and
sophomore years.
Paul Malven, Kingston, has the highest average, a 4.857, in
the current sophomore class. Gene Potter, Woosung, is second high
with a 4.812, and Arlo Bane, LeRoy, ranks third with a 4.794. They
earned these averages in their freshman year.
From these and other top students will come the future leaders
in such agricultural fields as extension and education, research and
communications, conservation, business, industry and farming.
-30-
PAC:cm
1/29/58
TOP 20 JUNIORS, COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, 1957-58 — NOW SENIORS
NAME
Allison, Roy Leland
Barker, Allen vaughan
Beyer, Edgar Herman
Brown, Richard George
:armichael, Raymond Merle
Zraig, William Ray
Damron, Marvin Arthur
Davis, Clarence Oliver
Frey, Thomas Lee
Fruin, Jeremiah Edward
Sillespie, Edward Eugene
jitter, Almut
luck, Morris Glen
Lane, Charles Edward
Durth, Lyonel Lee
labideau, Arlyn Wayne
Jchleder, Delmar Wayne
Jatters, Paul Stanley
■ eber, Kenneth Frederic
ernsman, Earl Allen
GRADE POINT
4
.383
4.
.930
4.
.595
4.
.353
4,
.453
4.
.362
4.
,405
4,
,615
4«
,595
4.
666
4.
515
4.
410
4.
759
4.
480
4.
526
4.
716
4,
418
4.
847
4.
373
4.
376
ADDRESS
R. 4, Fairfield, 111.
R. 2, McLeansboro, 111.
409 N. 7th Ave., Maywood, 111.
R. 1, Enfield, 111.
Heyworth, 111.
R. 2, Chrisman, 111.
1050 Main Street, Hamilton, 111.
Elkhart, 111.
R. 1, Carthage, 111.
Gilman, 111.
Congerville, 111.
(23) Bookholzberg, O, Germany
R. 1, Nashville, 111.
R. 1, Shelbyville, 111.
Nauvoo, 111.
R. 1, Bonfield, 111.
Hartsburg, 111.
R.F.D., Alpha, 111.
333 W. Union, Edwardsville, 111.
Vernon, 111.
TOP 20 SOPHOMORES, COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, 1957-58— NOW JUNIORS
NAME
Barnett, Ritchie G.
Casey, Larry Lee
Cassens, Robert Gene
Chisholm, Roger Kent
Fairgrieves, Richard L.
Funkhouser, Lyle Elbert
Geschwind, Richard Dale
Gullakson, Glen Edwin
Hall, George Fredrick
Hawkinson, Edwin Andrew
Moffitt, Raymond Vern
Muck, George Arthur
Norris, John Lee
Pinney, Don Ovid
Rigney, Harlan Halladay
RippYr Lester Gene
Ruckman, Dale Eugene
Sims, Ferman Wayne
Wells, Gary Lynn
Woods, John LaRue
GRADE POINT
4,
,506
4,
188
4.
818
4.
625
4.
523
4.
114
4.
223
4.
681
4.
609
4,
454
4.
,651
4.
030
4,
261
4,
,686
4.
,152
4,
,171
4.
,202
4,
,135
4,
,536
4,
,250
ADDRESS
Ritchie Heights, Decatur, 111.
Bingham, 111.
Dixon, 111.
Park Forest, 111.
Belvidere, 111.
Carmi, 111.
Ransome, 111.
Serena, ill.
Altona, 111.
R. 1, Galesburg, 111.
Milan, 111.
R. 1, Galesburg, 111.
R. 1, Taylorville, 111.
Roseville, 111.
1453 Demeyer Drive, Freeport, 111
R. 5, Carmi, 111.
R. 1, Xenia, 111.
108 Avenue "D", Danville, 111.
Port Byron, 111.
R. 1, Taylorville, 111.
.
■
.
- '
■
■
TOP 20 FRESHMEN, COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, 1957-58 — NOW SOPHOMORES
GRADE POINT
4.794
NAME
Bane, Arlo Gregory
Brazle, Vernon Lee
Burton, Dale Forrest
Cannon, James Calvin
Cline, Tilford Robert
Ehlers, Norman Fredric
Gallup, Roger Howard
Gay, James Clark
Klieber, Joseph Michael
Malven, Paul Vernon
Perkinson, Leaton Dee
Potter, Gene Ellsworth
Reiners, Robert Harold
Remmers, Harry Ernest
Smith, John Thomas
Snodgrass, Dick Pryce
Vatthauer, Richard James 4.406
Wesson, Heston Kent 4.406
tfill, Raymond Lawrence 4.735
Wilson, John Robert 4.382
4,
.514
4.
,515
4.
,242
4,
,352
4.
.393
4.
514
4.
352
4.
176
4.
857
4.
531
4.
812
4.
250
4.
190
4.
351
4.
714
ADDRESS
106 Park Avenue,
LeRoy, 111.
Brownstown, 111.
Wellington, 111.
Maquon, 111.
R. 3, Virginia, 111.
R. 2, LaMoille, 111.
R. 2, Chillicothe, 111.
Rockport, 111.
R. 3, Streator, 111.
R.F.D., Kingston, 111.
520 W. Lawndale,
Peoria, ill.
Woosung, 111.
R. 2, Gibson City, 111.
Weldon, 111.
Elkhart, 111.
R. 3, Geneseo, 111.
Green Valley, 111.
LeLand, 111.
R. 1, Sigel, 111.
R. 2, Fithian, 111.
PARENT'S NAME
Arlo E.
Milas
Forrest
Carl C.
Ray
Walter S.
Dwight J.
Joseph T.
Robert
H. D.
Ben P.
Paul
George
Ernest J.
Ray
J. Clinton
Ernest W.
Heston
Martin
Woodrow
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
What Makes an Adequate Farm Business Unit
URBANA — A University of Illinois farm economist this week
listed what it takes to make an adequate size of farm business.
F. J. Reiss says a farm should be large enough to provide
full employment for the farm family. It should produce enough to spread
out fixed costs. And it should yield enough income to provide accept-
able living standards and other financial needs.
Reiss reports that to keep one man fully employed and earning
a reasonable income requires about 216 acres, operated under a crop-
share lease, and some livestock. To keep two men fully employed would
take about 360 acres.
On farms operated under livestock- share leases, one man will
need to handle about 200 acres, 36 litters of pigs and 36 breeding cows.
To keep two men fully employed will require about 320 acres, 50 litters
of pigs and 72 mature cattle.
Reiss points out, however, that farms can get too big. He
recommends that the farm business unit be kept small enough to give
the farm family a desirable amount of independence in the ownership
and management of the farm. Most of the labor should be supplied by
the farm operator and his family.
To meet average farm family living costs requires about 200
acres of good tillable land and an average amount of livestock. Reiss
reports that the average farm family in the United States spends close
to $3,000 for family living. Any interest, debt payments, income tax
-more-
•
-
.
Add Farms - 2
and social security payments come on top of this amount. The total
could easily add up to $1,000 and leave only a small amount of annual
savings.
The average crop-share tenant in the Illinois Farm Bureau
Farm Management Service has had net earnings of only $17.62 per till-
able acre on good central Illinois land in recent years. At this rate
it would take about 227 acres of such land, or about a 240-acre farm,
to yield the desired income for the tenant family.
-30-
HDG:cm
1/29/58
•
■
.
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farm Managers Honor Walter McLaughlin
URBANA — The Illinois Society of Farm Managers and Rural
Appraisers presented their 1958 Service Award to Walter McLaughlin,
Decatur, at their annual meeting Friday at the University of Illinois.
The Society presents this award each year for outstanding service to
Illinois agriculture.
McLaughlin graduated from the University of Illinois in 1920
and has a long record of service as a professional farm manager. He
now heads the farm department of the Citizens Bank of Decatur.
He was a charter member of the Illinois Society of Farm
Managers and Rural Appraisers and served as its president in 1932.
He was president of the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural
Appraisers in 1940.
From 1933 to 1937, he served as director of the Illinois
State Department of Agriculture. He was a member of the board of
trustees of the University of Illinois from 1945 to 1951. He has re-
cently been appointed to the State Commission on Higher Education.
He has served on the advisory committee of the agronomy de-
partment for the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. He
was farm adviser in LaSalle county for seven years during the 1920' s.
HDGicm
i/31/58
-30-
.
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Home Bureau federation Elects Officers
URBANA — Newly elected president of the Illinois Home Bureau
Federation is Mrs, Horace M. Smith of Greenville.
She and six other officers and directors were chosen at the
34th annual meeting of the federation held last week at the University
of Illinois.
Others chosen were Mrs. Ross Hanna, Little York, second vice
president; Mrs. Roy Wilson, Greenville, secretary; Mrs. Stanley
Pastruczak, East Moline, northwest director; Mrs. Glenn Randall, Scott-
land, east- central director; Mrs. oraville Plocher, Highland, south-
west director; and Mrs. Webb Kimmel, Thompsonville, southern director.
About 600 women representing 91 of the 96 organized counties
in the state attended the meeting. Mrs. E. D. McGuire, retiring presi-
dent, from Makanda, spoke to the group and showed slides of her recent
trip as a delegate to the Associated Country Women of the World's
Triennial Conference in Ceylon.
The I.H.B.F. board established the new position of public
information chairman. They chose Mrs. Kenneth Luney of oakdale for
the position. Mrs. Luney will work with district public information
chairmen to coordinate activities throughout the state.
-30-
MVBtcm
1/31/58
1
!
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Join "Operation Caravan" to U. of I. Farm and Home Festival
URBANA — Strings of cars will wend their way from all corners
of the state to the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival on
March 27, 28 and 29.
These motorcades have been dubbed "Operation Caravan." Each
county has the option of sponsoring a caravan.
Idea behind the caravan is to have county residents meet in
their cars at one spot in the county and leave for the Urbana campus
at a time named in advance. In this way friends and neighbors, and
clubs and other organizations, can stay together for the entire trip.
There will be ample parking areas for those who drive, with
transportation from parking sites to the exhibit and auditorium areas.
Chairman of the caravan for each county is the farm adviser.
You can get further information on your county's plans by contacting
him.
If your county does not have a caravan, you can join "Opera-
tion On- Your- Own." Visitors may come for one day, two days or all
three days.
-30-
RLNtcm
1/31/58
.
.
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service "by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending January 31; 1958)*
Corn Stocks Hit New Record High
URBANA — Corn stocks reached a new record high on January 1. Almost 3-6
"billion bushels were held in all positions compared with 3.^- billion a year ago.
The University of Illinois grain marketing staff reports that corn use
during the last quarter of 1957 "was about 10 million bushels above that of a year
earlier. But this is not a good guide for estimating future use because harvest was
so late.
A reasonable estimate would be about 6 percent higher than last year's
figure. If this rate works out, production and use during the current marketing
year will be in balance. If the corn inventory does not increase, it will be the
first time since 1951* The next report on use will be out in April.
Supply of other feed grains is the big obstacle in balancing feed supply
and use. On January 1, oat stocks totaled 932 million bushels, up 1^0 million from
last year. Barley stocks totaled 358 million, 292 million above last year. Grain
sorghums jumped to 505 million bushels compared with 205 million in 1957* But be-
cause of their location, barley and sorghum stocks won't cut into corn use so much
as their size might indicate.
Without doubt, there will be an increase in total feed grain carryover
next October 1. Usually this increase has been in corn, but this year it might be
in one of the other grains.
Whether or not the price of corn will get up to the low loan rate will
depend on rate of use, amount put into loan and amount sold by CCC.
-more -
■
.
■
: '. -
. . ■ "•'■
■
.
'.
■
-
■
.
• ' ■
■
■
■ . \
•
•
■ •
.
■
-2-
It now appears likely, however, that farmers will put less corn into loan
this year. The CCC will probably sell as little as possible. But they will have
some inventory handling problems in preparing to take over loan corn next summer.
Large amounts of CCC corn appear to be of questionable keeping quality. So if the
CCC is forced to sell large amounts of corn, the chance that corn prices will rise
to the low loan rate will not be so good as last year.
-30-
HDG:cm
1/31/58
•
■
•' ■
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Highways Cause Pressure on Land Prices
URBANA — A University of Illinois land economist stated today
that the new interstate highway system is partly responsibile for ad-
vancing land prices.
C. L. Stewart said that some owners of farms split by high-
ways had gone out in the market to buy replacement for the lost land.
He pointed out that a highway with a 250- foot wide right-of-way would
take more than 30,4 acres per mile.
Stewart estimated that in Illinois take-over of rural lands
'/ill total about 48,000 acres. This averages out to about 950 acres
in each county that has a new highway going across it.
Rural counties that will have more than one interstate route
vith more than 50 miles or road are McLean, Champaign, Madison, Will,
ienry and Marion. Farm owners in these counties will lose about 2,000
icres to rights-of-way and interchanges.
Even so, public taking of farm land in Illinois has been
small compared with takings for reservoirs, military bases and other
ises in other states, Stewart concluded.
-30-
IDGtcm
i/4/58
. ■
■ •
• ■ ' .
' • '
... -.■■,- '■ Imw ,
, ■ '■
.
' •. -
■ . -' ■ ■
i; • ■ ■ -'■•••.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Live Termite Colony on Display at Farm and Home Festival
URBANA — A living colony of hungry termites will display their
destructive traits at the Farm and Home Festival on the University of
Illinois campus March 27-29.
Although no definite estimate of annual termite damage in Il-
linois has been made, H. B. Petty, extension entomologist for the Col-
lege of Agriculture and the State Natural History Survey, reports that
termites do cause extensive damage.
The termites to be on display at the festival were picked up
on a farm near Monticello where some old lumber had been left lying
in contact with the ground. This situation makes an ideal place for
termites to develop, Petty points out.
The termites were put inside a glass panel that had moist
oil at the bottom and a wooden frame for them to feed on. They quickly
idapted to their new home and began to tunnel into the wood.
Some of the termites found a small crack near the top of the
lass panel. They built a tunnel up one side of the glass and back
town the outside to the wooden base where the glass panels were at-
tached. So now the display panel has live termites both outside and
nside.
Besides the termite display, Petty reports a plan to show
ouseflies being chased by new repellents and live aphids, corn borers
nd white grubs that cause serious damage to farm crops in Illinois,
hese insect exhibits will be part of the "World of Plants" at the Farm
nd Home Festival. Everyone is invited to attend.
-30-
DG:cm
1/4/58
■
•
-
■ .
■ •
[
-
•
.
■ f
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Corn Acreage Down But Production Up
URBANA — Although corn acreage had dropped by more than 28
million during the past 20 years, total production has jumped more than
one billion bushels.
University of Illinois agricultural economist C. P. Schumaier
explains that this corn production trend has been due to increases in
the corn belt states rather than in the south.
Actually, corn-belt farmers are growing 10 percent more of
the total corn acreage than they grew 20 years ago. Southern corn
growers are planting about 10 percent less of the total acreage.
Schumaier emphasizes that many people have been misled about
the increases in corn acreage, because most of the counties added to
the commercial corn area in the past five years have been in the south.
But this change has been due largely to rising yields, not to more acres
of corn.
Other feed grain production has increased much more than corn.
tfhile corn production has increased about 50 percent since the 1930* s,
barley output has doubled and sorghum has jumped almost 10 times.
Barley expansion has come in the west. Sorghum has become a major crop
in the southwest, where it has displaced not only cotton and wheat,
:>ut corn as well.
The corn allotment program may well have stimulated feed
jrain production outside the corn belt, Schumaier points out. But it
ias not caused a large increase in production of corn in the south, as
I
nany people have believed.
-30-
IDGtcm
J/4/58
:
.
.-
.
.
'
' -
! . .
•
. .* EOt> J
.■.■:''
. - r
-
.
I
I
i
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ground All Electrical Appliances
URBANA — A three-pronged electrical plug that grounds electrical
equipment and appliances automatically has been approved by the National
Electrical Code.
It is designed to prevent electrocution or shock caused by
short circuits, says 0. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the
University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Everyone planning to build or remodel should install proper
outlets and wiring cable so that the three-pronged plug may be used
with electrical equipment.
This cable contains a ground wire in addition to the regular
neutral and hot wires. The third prong on the plug connects equipment
to this grounding wire.
At the service entrance the grounding wire is connected to the
water system or to a suitable driven ground rod. Thus every piece of
equipment is automatically grounded when it is plugged in, and no
separate ground wire is needed for each appliance.
Prayed wires, loose connections or worn insulation on motor
windings can all cause short circuits. This means dangerous current
on the "loose," looking for a place to go. It will go through persons
and livestock, causing shocking and often death unless it finds an
easier path to the ground. The three-pronged plug and grounding wire
provide this easier path and help to insure safety.
-more-
'
•
-
■
'
■
•
-
•
■
.
•
•
.
■
■
•
•
Add Electrical - 2
Every piece of electrical equipment in the home or on the
farm should be grounded for safety of people and livestock. Hogsett
says that all such portable equipment as grain and hay elevators,
grinders, drills, handsaws and other tools can now be automatically
grounded if this modern wiring is installed.
-30-
OLHrcm
2/4/58
,
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Career Conference in Veterinary Medicine Slated for Feb, 14
URBANA — Guidance toward a career in veterinary medicine will
be one of four topics discussed at the University of Illinois conference
on preveterinary medical and veterinary medical education Feb. 14.
C. A. Brandly, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine,
urges high school administrators, career counselors and guidance staffs
as well as college and university preveterinary medical advisors to
attend. The conference will be held in the Veterinary Medicine building
at the University of Illinois, Urbana, Registration will begin at
9 a.m.
Two years or more of preveterinary medical training in col-
lege are required for admission to the four-year professional curriculum
leading to the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. "However, " Dr.
Brandly says, "If a student is interested in training for veterinary
medicine, we believe that his orientation should begin before he reaches
ollege. "
A wide choice awaits graduates in veterinary medicine. Al-
:hough 60 percent of all veterinarians are engaged in some kind of
Practice, there are also broad opportunities in public service; teaching
nd research; public health; national, state and local regulatory and
.nspection activities; food sanitation; and related activities.
For further information about veterinary medicine training,
'rite to Dean C. A. Brandly, College of Veterinary Medicine, Univer-
ity of Illinois, Urbana, Illinois.
-30-
"ERtcm
/4/58
•
. •
:' . ■
• • . T..
-
-
!'
, .'
-.-•.;■ v ,al ' '' ' '
.... ■ ' ' ■ • ■ '
: ■ ■ '
.-.-•■ '•■■■" • ' ' ''■''.
, . ■ • ..■■.•.*■•'•''
■ ■ ■
■
: i * • ' ' ' '
.... bi ■• • ■ • - -
r. •' ' '• ' ' ' l
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Soybean Meal Also Needs Hay in Ration
URBANA — Steers will gain fast on soybean meal as the only
protein if they get some good legume hay, too.
G. R. Carlisle, extension livestock specialist at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture, reports results of research
work at the Illinois Experiment Station with fattening steers in drylot
when 2h pounds of alfalfa hay was fed in the ration.
Daily gains on the steers getting soybean meal as the only
protein averaged 1.98 pounds at a cost of $21.08 for each 100 pounds
of gain.
Gains for similar steers getting both linseed and soybean
meal averaged 1.96 pounds a day at a cost of $22.12. Adding dried
molasses to soybean and linseed meal in the ration of another lot of
steers raised daily gains to 2.10 pounds at a cost of $21.98.
All supplements were valued at $70 a ton in this test.
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/4/58
.
.••-■■
■
' ! j ' •
. ■ • • ■ *o -' ' tl -
.■•■■'■ . t
: '■
• . . - ' ■
• ■■
• .. .
-.
....
...
■ • * ...■--
, . ■■ •..:•■
. ...
• ■ • ■■■■•..
■ • - • ': '
. -
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Check Soil Conditions Before Buying Trees and Shrubs
by H. R. Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA — Before you "buy trees and shrubs for planting this spring, check
the soil and other cultural conditions of the planting sites.
Find out whether the soil is vet or dry, whether the drainage is good or
poor, whether the planting site has any shade and whether it is protected from cold
winter winds. Then compare those conditions with the soil and cultural requirements
of the plants you want to buy.
In some cases soil conditions can be changed to meet the needs of the
plants. But it's best to select a plant that is adapted to the present con-
ditions. You can get information on cultural requirements of plants from nurserymen
and most nursery catalogs.
Also consider the ornamental characteristics of plants before you buy.
Find out the flower color, blooming season, height, texture and growth habits (up-
right or spreading) of each plant. A wise selection will include variety in each.
Trees and shrubs can serve a variety of purposes in your landscape setting.
They can screen an unattractive view and give interest to a dark shaded area; shrubs
vith white blossoms are appropriate for such areas. They can frame a view to the
house or away from the house. They can give shade in the summertime. And evergreens
provide winter interest in a landscape setting.
-30-
PAC:cm
Wise
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
National 4-H Club Week to Honor Parents
URBANA — More than 63,000 Illinois 4-H boys and girls will
pay special tribute to their parents during National 4-H Club Week,
March 1-8.
These young people, between 10 and 21 years old, have se-
lected as their theme, "4-H Salute to Parents." During this week they
will honor parents and recognize the important part they play in the
lives of children and youth.
The over-all purpose of National 4-H Club Week is to inform
the public about the meaning and value of the 4-H program. Boys and
girls will also be invited to join 4-H, and new members will be assisted
in starting 4-H projects.
The 4-H'ers will also honor the volunteer 4-H leaders who
help to guide 4-H work in local clubs throughout the United States,
Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico.
4-H Club Week will be highlighted nationally in Washington,
3. C, when six outstanding members present the annual 4-H Club "Re-
port to the Nation." The 4-H'ers will review the report with President
Eisenhower. They will also visit with Secretary of Agriculture Ezra
raft Benson and C. M. Ferguson, administrator of the Federal Extension
Service.
PACtcm
2/7/58
-30-
•
•'
-
■
-
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Corn Handling Methods Require New Leases
URBANA — New corn growing and harvesting methods may require
new leasing arrangements to give fair treatment to both landlord and
tenant, according to agricultural economists at the University of Illi-
nois.
F. J. Reiss points out that a fair lease will provide for
equal sharing of costs and income. But new corn growing and harvesting
methods may unbalance the sharing of costs unless the old lease is re-
vised.
Landowners and tenants can work out a fair arrangement even
when changing completely to field shelling, artificial drying and
shelled corn storage. Under the new plan, owner and operator will share
production costs equally up to harvest. The tenant will furnish the
harvesting equipment and labor to handle the job. The owner will buy
drying equipment and arrange for storing the shelled corn. The tenant
will furnish labor for drying. Fuel for harvesting and drying will be
shared equally.
Those attending Farm and Home Festival on the University of
Illinois campus March 27-29 will have the opportunity to see displays
and exhibits providing more complete information about the costs and
profit opportunities under different corn harvesting and storage
methods. A special program on corn drying and storage is scheduled for
Thursday and Friday.
-30-
HDG:cm
2/7/58
■
■
.
.
-
I
'
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois 4-H'ers to Attend Poultry Conference
URBANA — Four outstanding Illinois 4-H poultry club members
will attend the fifth annual Junior Fact Finding Conference in Kansas
City, February 13-16.
They are Bill Garlich, Okawville; Andy Jackson, New Boston;
Jerry Reusch, Scales Mound? and Gary Timpner, Pinckneyville. Gerald
Elliott, assistant youth adviser in Jo Daviess county, will accompany
the boys as chaperon.
Junior Poultry growers who attend the conference will have
educational sessions and guided tours of industry in their own group.
They will also attend other sessions of the adult industry representa-
tives during the meeting.
Topics for discussion during the Junior Fact Finders Clinic
on Friday, February 14, will include modern poultry processing, oiling
eggs on the farm, selling turkeys on eviscerated weight grades, broiler
management, preparing broilers for the freezer and marketing eggs.
Another clinic session on Saturday will explore career opportunities
for young people in the poultry industry.
Expenses for the Illinois delegation will be paid by the
Illinois 4-H Foundation and the Illinois poultry Improvement Association
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/7/58
•
.
-
•
.
•J
.
.
.
'
.
FOR IMMEDIATE REIEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending February "J, 1958)
Soybean Crop Appears Larger Than Estimated
UKBANA — Soybean growers probably produced about ^90 million bushels in
1957 instead of the k&O million bushels forecast by the government.
The University of Illinois grain marketing staff bases this higher esti-
mate on crop report figures, old crop carryover, crush and exports since harvest.
A balance of 18.5 million bushels remains that can be explained only by an under-
estimate of crop size or an overestimate of stocks on hand January 1.
During the last quarter of 1957; 86 million bushels were crushed and 1+2.5
million were exported. An optimistic projection of the crush rate indicates a total
of 335 million bushels for the marketing year and exports of $0 million. The larger
crop and use estimates would mean a carryover of k5 million bushels next October 1.
There was very rapid into-loan-and -purchase -agreement movement during the
last two weeks of January. It now appears that soybean users will need to buy from
the Commodity Credit Corporation next summer, so the price should get up to the
government resale price.
Processors and exporters will need to buy substantial quantities from
farmers before June 15, when CCC beans become available. Prices between now and
June will depend on the price at which farmers will sell. Fairly liberal offerings
seem likely at current to slightly higher prices.
The 1957 soybean crop has set several records. It was the largest ever
produced. The October through December crush set a new record. October-December
exports topped those of all previous years. January 1 stocks were the highest ever
reported. And it looks as if the amount put into loan and held for carryover will
also be a record.
-30-
HDG:cam
2/7/58
-
!
•
-
•
■
.
.
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
Special Pictorial Report
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Can Valentine's Day Soften Artificial Heart?
URBANA — St. Valentine's Day has a way of softening even some
of the hardest hearts. And they don't come any harder than this
artificial heart being used at the University of Illinois College of
Agriculture to keep a cow's rumen alive for research. Dairy scientist
Dick Brown agrees with Nancy Jo Schrader, home economics major from
Tuscola, and John Woods, agricultural journalism student from Taylor-
ville, that this kind will never replace the tender variety — especially
at this time of year. The artificial heart system will be on display
during Farm and Home Festival, March 27 through 29, on the University
of Illinois campus in Urbana.
-30-
DLPrcm
2/10/58
"
"
•
I
A*V£
Farm News
rERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
^arro Festival to Show $7, 000-$10, 000 Income Plans
URBANA — W. D. Buddemeier, University nf Illinois agricultural
iconomist, reported today that an Illinois farm family of five needs a
let income of $7,000 or more to provide all the features for an adequate
standard of living. These features include a modern home, land owner-
ship, a college education for the children and savings for retirement.
Actual records of northern Illinois farmers show that such
m income is possible on well-managed commercial farms. Operating plans
or farms that will produce these incomes will be shown at the Farm
nd Home Festival on the University of Illinois campus March 27-29.
Six major exhibit areas and three auditoriums have been re-
erved to present "The Wonder Worlds of Farm and Home Progress" and the
any scientific advancements that have benefited both farm and city
esidents.
-30-
DG:cm
/11/58
.
i
. -. ■• • '.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
;ives Strong and Weak Points of Swine Integration
URBANA — A University of Illinois agricultural economist this
reek pointed out the strong and weak points of an integrated hog busi-
less.
R. L, Coppersmith explained that integration aims to shift
>r share risks among the different parts of the swine industry. For
lany years farmers have faced the risk of violent price change that re-
mits in little or no profits. Packing companies have faced the prob-
.em of erratic supplies of hogs coming to market.
To operate at top efficiency, packing plants need a uniform
:low of hogs coming through the plant.
Actually, integration is simply controlling two more stages
n the production and marketing of a product. If a farmer raised hogs,
rew all of his own feed, slaughtered and processed the meat and sold
t to consumers, he would have a completely integrated business.
Coppersmith lists some possible advantages for integrating
he swine business. A farmer might be able to increase his volume of
usiness and use labor and capital more efficiently. He might get
igher quality products. He might help to develop specialized markets,
might put new practices into use more quickly.
Also a business might be able to get credit more easily.
)int research, educational and promotional programs might be possible.
)re stability and efficiency in the industry might lower consumer
rices. An integrated business might have more bargaining power in
ie market.
-more-
•
•
■
■
■
, ii
. ' •
.
•
■ , .
;
hdd Swine Integration - 2
But an integrated swine system also faces some problems.
Fair and workable pricing arrangements must be worked out. Prices must
serve as a guide in determining the amount and kind of product produced.
3og production contracts won't go very far unless they have some price
advantage over non-integrated production.
Management problems must also be faced. Will farmers make
bhe usual business decisions, or will they become wage earners and per-
mit someone else to make the decisions? If size of business increased,
would disease andparasite problems multiply?
If integration is successful, increased size of businesses
night mean that fewer producers could produce all the hogs that are
leeded. So, even if integration is sound from an economic standpoint,
it may be used as a political football to support or reject certain
government farm programs.
Coppersmith suggests that farmers who are considering some
3hase of integration study all angles carefully and make final decisions
ccordingly.
-30-
IDG:Cm
1/11/58
■
■
.
-
•
.
"
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Know How Home Wiring System Works
URBANA — Electricity can be a quick killer in an off-guard
noment.
The ordinary 115-volt lighting circuit can be as deadly as
ligh-voltage lines, says O. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at
the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
When poorly installed, a new extension or repair job can make
9 safe wiring system hazardous.
Even the best wiring system needs a little attention now and
then. Outside you should check frequently for broken insulators, frayed
insulation and loose or sagging wires that may touch trees or other
obstructions.
Inside a building, watch for defective outlets or switches,
Loose connections at junctions, damaged insulation or worn fixtures.
Appliance cords need frequent attention. When cords are defective,
liscard or repair them immediately.
When a fuse blows, something is wrong — too much load on the
:ircuit or a short circuit somewhere. Locate and remove the cause of
:he overload or short before putting in a new fuse. Be sure to use the
roper size of fuse.
-30-
)LH:cm
1/11/58
.
■
.
'
'
. 3 •
■
■ ■ -
- > ■ ■
'
-
' '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Today's Hogs Improving in Quality
URBANA — Test grading at three St. Louis packing plants
showed that more than 50 percent of hogs received for market graded
either U. S. No. 1 or No. 2.
M. B. Kirtley, University of Illinois agricultural marketing
specialist, and B. C. Breidenstein, UI meats specialist, conducted the
grading test to determine how much progress had been made in producing
and marketing better quality hogs.
In the test, the researchers measured carcass length and back-
fat thickness at three different points on each carcass. Grades were
determined on the basis of USDA standards for length and backfat. These
grades are designed to reflect differences in yields of the high-value
lean cuts.
During the test grading period, 15 percent of the hogs graded
J. S. No. 1, 37 percent graded U. S. No. 2, 46 percent graded U. S.
tfo. 3 and 2 percent graded medium and cull. Although no previous rec-
ords were available for comparison, these results definitely indicate
Improvement in quality based on estimates and observations of the past.
According to Kirtley and Breidenstein, the percentage of
J. S. No. 1 hogs varied widely between plants. The percentage also
raried within the same plants. This day-to-day variation points out
ne problem of developing a quality marketing program. If plants are
oing to concentrate on a quality product, they need a constant supply
f top-grade hogs.
-more-
■■" ■
'
.
,
:
a
1
.
•
• .
:
i
■
■
■
-
1
Add Today's Hogs - 2
Further progress in producing and marketing higher grade hogs
should do much to strengthen the position of the entire industry. Pro-
ducers need to continue selecting breeding stock that will produce trim,
well-muscled hogs. Market agencies need to intensify their efforts to
identify superior hogs and differentiate their prices accordingly, A
good start has been made, but there is still much to do, the researchers
believe.
-30-
PAC : cm
2/11/58
I
■
..
■
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Soil Insecticides Increase Plant Stands
URBANA — Applying soil insecticides to cornfields before plant-
ing increased plant stands an average of 7 percent,
Steve Moore, extension entomologist at the Illinois Natural
History Survey, says these insecticides control pests that feed on the
seed and underground portions of corn plants. Such pests as wireworms,
rootworms and grubs cause poor germination, lodging and reduced yields.
Moore recommends using either aldrin or heptachlor. They can
sither be broadcast or applied in the row as a band treatment.
Broadcast ing requires 1 1/2 pounds of insecticide per acre. Disk it into
the soil immediately. The band treatment requires only 1 pound of actual
:hemical per acre. Apply at planting time in the starter fertilizer or
is a spray behind the planter shoe.
Research tests show that aldrin and heptachlor are equally
ffective. But broadcasting produced a 34 percent larger plant stand
han the row treatment. The combined averages of both the chemicals
howed a 7 percent increase in plant stand and 4 bushels per acre aver-
ge increase in yield.
Moore says the effects of aldrin and heptachlor also carry
ver from one year to the next. The first year after application 12
est fields out of 15 showed a 7 percent increase in plant stand. Three
ields showed no difference. The second year the same 12 fields showed
n additional 3 percent increase in plant stand.
-more-
'
Add Soil Insecticides - 2
According to Moore, soil insecticides can be profitably
applied in most Illinois cornfields.
During the past four years, 66 percent of several hundred
fields tested showed a profit over and above cost of treatment. The
tests were conducted by J. H. Bigger, research entomologist with the
Illinois Natural History Survey.
The chance of realizing a profit from treatment is greater
on the second crop of corn than on the first. Chances of profit in-
crease when insecticides are applied to sod land, bottom land and other
land having wireworm infestations.
If a soil insecticide is not applied, Moore recommends using
treated seed. But seed treatment is not necessary if an insecticide is
applied.
-30-
PAC : cm
2/11/58
■■■
. ■
■ ' . •- "
• • •
. , . . .
• . , ■ • « ■ . • • • ' ■
' • '■ "
. ■ ' • ■'
....... ,..,, :, /8 . .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Junior Calf Sale One of Nation's Oldest
URBANA — When 4-H and F.F.A. members buy dairy calves at the
10th annual Dairy Calf Club sale in Urbana on February 22, they'll be
taking part in one of the oldest sales of its kind.
So far as is known, says J. G. Cash, University of Illinois
dairy extension specialist, this calf club sale was one of the first in
the country.
It's a unique sale, the specialist points out. The entire
sales force donate their services so that the consignors do not have
to pay a charge for selling. Dairymen throughout the state bring in
some of the best show prospects in their herds to give 4-H and F.F.A.
youngsters the right kind of start in the dairy business.
Many calves bought very reasonably at these club sales are
now high producers and foundation animals for several good Illinois
herds.
Some 100 calves representing the Holstein, Guernsey, Brown
Swiss, Jersey and Ayrshire breeds will start through the auction ring
at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 22, in the stock pavilion at the
College of Agriculture.
Purchasers must all be bona fide 4-H or F.F.A. members from
Illinois. If a member can't attend, he may designate another person
to buy for him, but he will have to certify that the calf will be used
^or club projects.
The Illinois Purebred Dairy Cattle Association, sale sponsor,
/ill send catalogs to persons writing to J. G. Cash, Dairy Science De-
partment, University of Illinois, Urbana.
Lunch will be available at the stock pavilion.
-30-
•AJtcm
/11/53
.
. •
•
■•■
• ■
■
-
'
■
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dairy Foods Consumption Going Up
URBAN A — That line on the milk production chart posted on the
dairy barn door has been climbing during the past 20 years. In 1957
total milk production in the United States reached 127 billion pounds.
Robert Jacobson, University of Illinois dairy marketing spe-
cialist, says that Americans have been eating more prepared dairy foods
in using this huge amount of milk.
Consumption of cheese per person, for example, rose from a
yearly 5.4 pounds in 1936 to 8.1 pounds in 1957. Ice cream went from
7.9 quarts in 1936 to 15.3 in 1957. Cottage cheese increased from 1.4
to 4.9 pounds and chocolate milk increased 2.3 quarts.
jacobson said fluid milk jumped from a per capita consumption
igure of 122 quarts in 1936 to 142 quarts in 1957. Of the major dairy
roducts, only cream and butter dropped in per capita consumption.
-30-
vStcm
1/11/58
•
■
.
..
.
\avm
Radio News
/ERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
)K to Use Urea in Dairy Rations
URBANA — There's no magic in urea.
Protein supplements that contain urea are no better and no
/orse than similar supplements without urea, says Leo Fryman, extension
lairy specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
The key to the worth of a protein supplement is in the per-
:ent of protein and the quality of the contents, Fryman points out. A
supplement is not superior simply because it contains urea.
Urea contains nitrogen that can be converted into about six
:imes as much protein as the same weight of soybean meal. However,
rea contains only nitrogen and does not have in it the energy that is
ound in soybean meal. Urea nitrogen must be converted by a dairy cow's
umen bacteria into a protein source.
As a result, 98 pounds of corn must be added to 15 pounds of
rea to make a protein feed equal in feeding value to 100 pounds of
oybean oil meal. In most feeding trials, urea has not proved as good
s soybean, linseed or cottonseed meal as a source of protein.
Urea is used mainly in commercial mixed feeds because it must
e thoroughly mixed in the ration. Most dairymen find handling urea
aborious and unhandy unless they have a large dairy operation.
-30-
AJ:cm
/14/SR
.
■ ; " =
•
".
■ • ■ .
. : ;
■" ■ i ■
■
td
i
'
'■
-' ,
• [<
- ■ '
■
'
■
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Latest Feed-Handling Ideas on Exhibit
URBANA — Farm and Home Festival visitors will see the last
word in automatic feed-handling systems on display March 27, 28 and 29.
For example, agricultural engineers at the University of Il-
linois will show working models of push-button silo fillers and un-
loaders during the three-day Festival in Urbana.
In other silage storage structures, the engineers have safely
stored corn as wet as 27 percent moisture content, using plastic covers
to keep out the air.
Another new development covers work at the UI College of Agri-
culture with remodeling corn cribs for shelled corn storage. Two or
three different successful systems will be on display.
Other systems will include both emergency and long-time
methods of drying and storing ear corn.
Exhibit panels and scale models will show the latest ideas
for shelled corn drying and storage and cooling of stored grain.
All of these exhibits and models of farm grain storage struc-
tures will be on display as part of the "World of Engineering" at the
Festival. Theme of this area has been featured as "Engineering the
Corn Crop From Ground to Gracious Living."
Visitors to this area will see how agricultural engineering
scientists study corn — from planning the crop to soil and water engi-
neering, planting, cultivating, harvesting, storing and processing.
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/14/58
•
'
.
•
■
■
■
■
•
■
■
"
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Set Second Irrigation Clinic for March 20 at Urban a
URBANA — The second annual Irrigation Clinic will be held at
the University of Illinois, urbanar on Thursday, March 20.
This full day course is planned for designers, distributors,
dealers, users and others interested in supplemental irrigation in Il-
linois. The University Departments of Agronomy, Agricultural Economics,
and Agricultural Engineering, the State Water Survey, the USDA, Soil
Conservation Service and Agricultural Research Service are combining
efforts on the program.
Subjects dealing with water rights, plant-soil-water rela-
tionships, pumps, equipment standards, labor-saving and Illinois farm
irrigation experiences will be included in the program.
Those interested in attending the course should register in
advance with the Division of University Extension, University of Illi-
nois, Urbana. The registration fee includes noon lunch. Sessions will
:>e held in Room 135 Animal Sciences Laboratory.
-30-
lAJ:sl
1/14/58
-
• • -
."
.
'
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
:ontract Deals Forcing Illinois Broiler Growers out of Business
URBANA — "Guaranteed profit" contracts to southern and eastern
Droiler growers are helping to force Illinois broiler producers out of
Dusiness.
Since 1952, Illinois production has dropped 20 percent while
lationally growers have boosted production by 69 percent.
These contract plans guarantee growers a certain payment per
Dird or per pound. They have been used extensively in southern states
\?here broiler production has climbed most rapidly in recent years.
Sky rocketing production has dropped broiler prices drastically.
En 1957 the farm price slumped to the lowest point since 1941 and more
bhan one-third below the 1952 level. These low prices have squeezed
)Ut all or most of the prof it for the average producer.
In many of the major broiler areas of the South and East,
rowers have few other opportunities for using their labor. Here they
ave resorted to contract plans. These plans eliminate risk by guaran-
eeing a fixed payment for each bird or pound of bird produced. Many
rowers have raised more birds to increase their returns. Production
as climbed in the face of falling prices.
James R. Roush, University of Illinois agricultural economist,
oints out that most Illinois broiler growers have not adopted the con-
tact arrangements. With falling profits they have shifted to other
arm enterprises. They have preferred to take greater risk with a
hance for a higher profit rather than accept the guarantee of a small
ixed payment for producing broilers on contract.
Total u. S. broiler production in 1958 will probably set new
ecords, while Illinois production will probably continue to decline,
oush concludes,
-30-
3G:cm
14/58
'
• .
;
.
'
■
'
.
'
'
■
■
.
. . " 9fj
-
•'
' "
Add Antibiotics - 2
Covering the period from 1953 to 1957, the survey shows a
geographic sampling of more than 3,400 severe cases of reaction to
antibiotics handled by about 1,600 private physicians. One-third
(1,070) of the reactions were classed as life-threatening; the remain-
ing two-thirds as not life-threatening. The survey concludes that there
should be a clearer cut indication of need before the drug is admin-
istered.
There is no evidence that the effects these drugs have when
used on animals are any different from those reported in medical lit-
erature.
Antibiotics can continue to be valuable against certain in-
fectious animal diseases, including those common to man and animals,
if they are used with judgment. In use on the farm, antibiotics should
not be a substitute for sanitation.
-30-
JERtcm
2/14/58
I
.
'
■
•
' •
..
■
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pruning Improves Fruit Quality and Condition
by Frank W. Owen
Fruit Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA-- Better quality fruit with a brighter color results when fruit
trees are pruned. Also, insect and disease damage is lessened because pruned trees
can be more uniformly sprayed.
The best time to prune is during the latter part of the dormant season.
Then the number of fruit buds that have survived the winter can be seen. This aids
in determining how much and what kind of pruning should be done. Fruning too early
may cause winter injury if extremely low temperatures occur afterwards.
When you start pruning, remember the following points:
Pruning reduces total growth. Pruned trees grow more slowly because they
have fewer leaves. Leaves manufacture food for trees. So a reduction in total
leaf surface limits the food supply and reduces growth.
Pruning reduces the number of growing points. Remaining laterals (side
branches) then grow faster. Increased vigor causes more leaves to grow on each
lateral, but not enough to make up for foliage lost by pruning. As a result, the
whole tree is smaller.
Pruning may be overdone, Overpruning will reduce yields because it
stimulates wood growth and delays formation of fruit buds.
Branches forming narrow angles to the tree trunk should be removed. The
narrow angle causes a weak crotch because bark is caught at the union of the branch
and trunk and prevents the two from growing together. If the angle is wide, the
crotch tissue is formed entirely of wood and therefore has greater strength.
Upper branches shade out and starve lower ones. Branches above selected frame-
work branches should be removed, allowing the lower ones to grow strong and healthy.
-30-
PAC:cam
2M/58
-
. •
•
r
'
.
•
-
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Report Labor Savings in Corn Production
URBANA — An Illinois farmer today produces more than four
times as much corn for every hour he spends on the job as his grand-
father produced in 1910.
Cost studies by University of Illinois agricultural economist
R. A. Hinton show that today a central Illinois farmer produces 75
bushels of corn an acre with 6 man hours and 5.4 tractor hours.
Back in 1910, a farmer averaged only 50 bushels an acre, and
it took him 16 man hours and 46 horse* hours to get the job done.
This magnificent advance in agricultural progress will be
vividly portrayed at the Farm and Home Festival on the University campus
tfarch 27-29, As one feature of "The Wonder Worlds of Farm and Home
Progress, " the World of Engineering will show engineering of the corn
crop — top income source for Illinois farmers.
Exciting displays and exhibits will show how farm machinery,
when properly used, will pay for itself, increase farm profits and make
possible gracious living for all farm families.
-30-
HDGrcm
2/18/53
;
-
• ■ •
.
i
• ; ■ •
1 3
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wet Spring Cuts Illinois Soil Testing Record
URBANA — Wet weather last spring reduced the amount of soil
Illinois farmers tested during 1957. A, U. Thor, manager of the Uni-
versity of Illinois soil-testing laboratory, reports that tests were
made on about 2 million acres compared with about 2.3 million acres
in 1956.
Considering the unfavorable season, Thor considers this is
still a good showing. More than 55,000 farms, or slightly less than
one out of every three in the state, are represented.
Nearly 530,000 samples were tested in the state's 83 county
extension laboratories and 42 commercial laboratories. Most samples
were tested for acidity, phosphorus and potassium. This total is far
above that of any other state.
Thor points out that in Illinois the College of Agriculture
and the Extension Service has pioneered in setting up county soil-
testing laboratories, other states are now following this successful
system.
A special exhibit showing the soil-testing services available
to Illinois farmers may be seen at the Farm and Home Festival on the
University of Illinois campus March 27-29.
-30-
HDGtcm
2/18/58
•
•
• -
■
■
.
, . • ■
■ '
...
■
!
■
■
■ . •
-
• ••
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Which Comes First, The Chicken or The Egg?
URBANA — Did you ever see a chicken jump around inside an egg?
Visitors at the 1958 Farm and Home Festival, March 27, 28 and
29 in Urbana, will see a live embryo moving inside an egg and many
other displays at the College of Veterinary Medicine exhibit.
According to Dr. G. T» Woods, extension veterinarian, one
display will show how the egg is used in combating diseases. Some
animal disease vaccines are produced by cultivation in eggs. These
vaccines are used to control such diseases as rabies and distemper in
dogs, fowl pox and Newcastle disease in chickens and sleeping sickness
in horses. Eggs are also used in producing a wart vaccine for cattle.
In cooperation with the American Medical Association, the
college will have an exhibit showing insects that carry diseases from
animals toman. It will show symptoms of some of the diseases trans-
mitted from animals to man.
Other attractions in the exhibit will include a poultry in-
spection display from the United States Department of Agriculture and
other displays showing how veterinary medicine has aided mankind through
the years and how the veterinarian serves his community.
A color movie narrated by Dr. J. 0. Alberts will show the way in
which preveterinary medicine students are selected and some of the
activities of the college.
The 1958 Farm and Home Festival is being presented by the
College of Agriculture in cooperation with the College of Veterinary
Medicine on the University of Illinois campus.
-30-
JERrcm
2/18/58
;
; .
■
|
:
'
'
•
■ ; •
L<
..
:
•
•
;
•
.
j
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
High-Quality Consignment for Dairy Sale
URBANA — From early consignments and intense interest shown
by breeders in the dairy calf club auction, the 10th annual sale looks
as if it might be the best offering yet, says J. G. Cash, University of
Illinois dairy extension specialist.
About 100 top-quality calves from the Holstein, Guernsey,
Brown Swiss, Jersey and Ayrshire breeds will make up the sale at
11:00 a.m. Saturday, February 22, at the College of Agriculture's stock
pavilion.
Sale sponsor, the Illinois Purebred Dairy Cattle Association,
intends for this sale to give 4-H and F.F.A. youngsters an opportunity
to buy quality foundation animals at reasonable cost. Only bona fide
4-H Club and F.F.A. members from Illinois may buy calves. If a member
cannot attend, he may designate someone else to purchase for him. But
all purchasers must certify that the calves will be used only for 4-H
or F.F.A. projects.
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/18/58
■
•
.
■■"■■■
■''' -
• . ' ■
\ ■ ■••'.'•■■ ' • • ■ .
:
■ Is "" '■■'''
■ v • : ' '...'.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contract Farming on Swine Day Program
URBANA — Illinois swine growers will take a critical look at
contract farming during their annual Illinois Swine Growers Day program
at the University of Illinois on Wednesday, April 2.
R. L. Coppersmith, extension swine marketing specialist at
the UI College of Agriculture, will lead off the afternoon program at
the University Auditorium in Urbana by discussing the general subject
of vertical integration and contracts in the hog business.
Other speakers will then look at the same topic from the
points of view of the hog producer, the meat packer and the feed in-
dustry.
S. W. Terrill, head of the swine division at the College,
invites all Illinois swine growers to meet at the swine farm between
8:00 and 10:00 a.m. for an informal tour of the barns to see experiments
in progress. The morning session will start in the University Audi-
torium at 10:30 o'clock.
L. N. Hazel, Iowa State College swine researcher, will discusc
results there with crossbreeding research. Staff members of the Uni-
versity of Illinois swine division will show the swine growers results
of experimental work now going on at the swine farm and other completed
tests.
There'll be plenty of time for growers to ask questions
about research results or about contract swine farming, Terrill points
out. The meeting is scheduled to adjourn about 3:00 p.m.
-30-
RAJ:cm
2/18/58
■
-
-
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Eisenhower Greets 4-H'ers During Club Week
URBANA — The more than 63,000 Illinois 4-H Club members were
greeted this week by President Dwight D. Eisenhower on the occasion of
National 4-H Club Week, March 1-8.
"My warm greetings to all of you as you plan ahead for Na-
tional 4-H Club Week, " Eisenhower said. "You and your leaders can take
great pride in your achievements of the past year, and in the greater
goals that you have set for yourselves for this year's accomplishments
on your farms, in your homes, and your communities.
"It is gratifying to know that during this Club Week, you
will honor parents — not only your own, but all parents. Mothers and
fathers, as our first teachers, influence our lives immeasurably and
deserve great credit and deep appreciation for the wise guidance and
great inspiration they give us.
"My hope is that the spirit and promise of this week's ob-
servance will carry through not only 1958, but to the time when you have
homes and families of your own. The training and experience you are
receiving now in 4-H Club work will enable you to build the kind of
homes that create a nation of peace, strength and progress."
County and community events sponsored by 4-H Club members all
over the country will help to mark the week when 4-H Club activity be-
gins each year. Emphasis is on enrolling new members for the club
year.
-30-
RAJrcm
2/18/58
.
'
•
■■
■. . ■ :
.
•
i
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Machinery Day On March 18
URBANA — Farm machinery dealers and their company representa-
tives will be brought up to date on some of the latest research from
the University of Illinois at the 5th annual Farm Machinery Day on
March 18.
The day's program will start at 9:30 a.m. in the Stock
pavilion on the campus of the UI College of Agriculture in Urbana.
One highlight of the program will be a discussion on the use
of pre-emergence sprays to control weeds in corn and bean fields by
Earl Spurrier, extension agronomist. This discussion will cover the
extent to which weeds reduce yields.
S. R. Aldrich, soil fertility specialist at the College, will
emphasize recommendations for placing starter fertilizers in his talk on
the principles of soil fertility.
Another feature of the morning session will be a panel dis-
cussion of the factors relating to capital available for buying farm
machinery. Dealers will be able to use the information brought out by
this panel to evaluate what machinery farmers need and how these pur-
chases can be financed.
In the afternoon Frank Andrew, extension agricultural engi-
neer at the College, and R. E. Greenfield, vice president of the Staley
Manufacturing Company, Decatur, will discuss the pros and cons of drying
corn.
Ample time is being scheduled following each presentation
to allow for questions from the audience.
RAJ: cm "30~
2/18/58
•
•
•
■
-
■
3
.
:■
'
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Turkey Growers Meet on March 13
URBANA — Members of the Illinois Turkey Growers Association
will hold their 25th annual meeting at the University of Illinois on
Thursday, March 13.
Peter Crafts, Grasmere, New Hampshire, president of the
National Turkey Federation, will highlight the day's program when he
visits with the turkey growers during the afternoon session on the
Federation's plans for 1958.
Also part of the afternoon session will be a panel of turkey
breeders including Birdsell Keithley, Lancaster, California, and Walter
Schwedler, Portland, Oregon*
Howard Kaufman, Waterman turkey grower, will be the featured
speaker at the annual banquet starting at 6:30 p.m. in Latzer Hall of
the University YMCA. He will tell the growers about his recent trip
to Russia and show slides of Russian agriculture.
Registration for the day's events starts at 9:00 a.m. in
Room 135 Animal Sciences Laboratory, Urbana. Speakers on the morning
program include Trevor Jones, Springfield, past president of the Na-
tional Turkey Federation; Lloyd Geil, Chicago, general manager of the
Poultry and Egg National Board; and Hermon I. Miller, Washington, D.C.,
United State Department of Agriculture.
Other speakers will include Dr. H. M. Scott, acting head of
the animal science department, and L. H. Simerl, extension economist,
both of the University of Illinois, and Coe Gaulrap, Rock Falls grower,
president of the association.
Lunch and the annual business meeting of the association will
also be held in Latzer Hall. All Illinois turkey growers are invited to
attend.
-30-
RAJ:cm
V18/58
.
'
.
■
Lf
■
TIPS FOB ILLINOIS GABDENEBS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Soil Tests Help Home Gardeners
by H. R, Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA--Soil tests help home gardeners by telling them which major plant
food elements their lawn and garden soils need.
Soil tests primarily tell whether soil is acid, neutral or alkaline.
And they also tell how much of each plant food is present in the soil. Most plants
grow best in soil that is slightly acid or neutral. Soil that is too acid or too
alkaline causes plants to be weak or stunted. Their roots cannot develop properly
and make use of the plant foods already in the soil.
Improper soil reaction can be corrected by adding lime or sulfur. Lime
decreases acidity. Sulfur or aluminum sulfate will increase acidity.
Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are the major plant food elements.
And each plays a different role in the growth of plants. Nitrogen stimulates quick
growth and dark green color in leaves. Phosphorus is needed for root growth. And
potassium increases plant vigor and resistance to disease.
Ordinarily it isn't necessary to test soils for copper, zinc, boron or
other minor elements. Most soils contain enough of each to supply the small amounts
that plants need. Also, ordinary fertilizer may contain some of the minor elements.
Fertilizer may be applied without testing the soil. Putting on recom-
mended rates probably will not cause an oversupply of plant food. But it's possible
to overapply the materials used to correct soil reaction. Too much lime can make
a soil too alkaline, or too much sulfur will make a soil too acid.
-more-
.
- . .
'
• ■ .
■
'.
'
.
.
••
■ -
-
-
'
Soil tests - 2
Soil can be tested at any time of the year. If you would like to have
your soil tested, the University of Illinois Division of Floriculture will do it
for a nominal fee. Take a little soil from several places down to a depth of 5 °r
6 inches. Mix the samples well. Then take a cupful as the sample to be tested.
If your soil is not all the same, send in samples from more than one
place. Also indicate what plants are growing in it. Let the samples become air-
dry before mailing. Address the package to 100 Floriculture Building, Urbana,
Illinois.
Following the tests, the soil testers will recommend the types and
amounts of lime and nutrients needed to improve your garden soil.
-30-
PACicam
2/18/58
.
'
■
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Florida Freeze Slows Illinois Corn Breeding Program
URBANA — The coldest winter in Florida since 1917 has set back
parts of the corn breeding program of the University of Illinois and
several seed companies by almost a full year.
Earl Leng, University of Illinois corn breeder, reported this
week that winter corn growing in Florida is not an emergency test, but
a vital part of their breeding and development program. Therefore loss
of the winter crop is almost as serious as losing an Illinois crop
during the summer,
Leng explains the importance of the Florida breeding program
in this way: Developing an inbred line to produce hybrid seed requires
at least five generations of self-pollination. If this work were done
in Illinois at the rate of one generation a year, it would take five
years. By growing a summer crop in Illinois and one or two crops in
Florida during the fall and winter, the corn research workers can get
this same job done in only 2 1/2 calendar years.
Most commercial hybrid seed corn companies and corn breeders
from most southern, eastern and north-central agricultural colleges
carry on winter corn-growing programs in Florida.
-more-
•
■
■
■
•
'
:
.
•
•
•
■
i
•
w
■ -
Add Florida Freeze - 2
All Illinois corn growers benefit from this stepped-up breed-
ing program by being able to get the latest and most improved hybrids
the breeders can develop in a much shorter time.
Leng points out that the southern tip of Florida, around
Homestead, is the best outdoor greenhouse they have found. Although
in about two years out of three temperatures slide down toward the dan-
ger point, this year's freeze proved to be the heaviest in recent times.
The University of Illinois corn breeding program in Florida
covered 4 1/2 acres this winter. The only part not damaged was some
January-planted corn that wasn't up when temperatures hit their low
on February 5. In this area corn research workers can handle about
10,000 plants an acre, or about 45,000 plants. Leng says the cost for
this operation is not much different from the cost of operating a green-
house here in Illinois that would hold about 450 mature corn plants.
Greenhouse corn production here on a comparable scale with
the outdoor Florida project would be impossible because of the expense.
So the small amount of greenhouse space here is reserved for minor
tests and emergency use.
Corn grown in Illinois greenhouses during the winter matures
slowly, it seems that greenhouse conditions can't equal the natural
heat and light from the sun. Usually the winter corn won't produce a
seed crop until late May. But when grown in Florida, the seed is har-
vested and on its way back to Illinois by early April.
Probably the most serious loss of immediate concern to Illi-
nois farmers was in the dwarf breeding program. A number of new dwarf
inbred lines had been planted for seed increase. Some other crosses
between dwarf and regular hybrids were also planned.
Earl Leng, corn breeder in charge of the dwarf corn project,
and g. E. Pickard, UI agricultural engineer, will present a special
Program on dwarf corn in Illinois during the Farm and Home Festival
March 27-29. This session is scheduled for Friday afternoon, March 28.
-30-
HDGtcm
2/21/50
■
I
■
■
"
■ ■
■ .
■ -
I
■
■"
■ '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tell What's Happening to Illinois Farm Land values
URBANA — Illinois farm land values have climbed from an aver-
age of $82 an acre in 1940 to a recent estimate of about $278 an acre.
But state-wide averages don't tell the whole story.
In the most productive areas of the state, values recently
averaged about $427 an acre, while for the lowest producing land the
average was around $128.
In the February issue of Illinois Banker magazine, C. L.
Stewart, professor of land economics, and Harold Guither, assistant ex-
tension editor. University of Illinois College of Agriculture, report
on what's happening to Illlinois farm land values.
They point out that recent land sale reports may be mislead-
ing in gauging farm land values because little land has been offered
for sale in recent years.
When little land is available, competition is left to the
stronger bidders. Some of the recent sales have involved small tracts
at almost unbelievable prices. Buyers can usually afford to pay more
for small acreages than for the medium and large sized farms.
Reasons for Uptrend
There are several reasons for this continuing rise in land
values. The demand for land to enlarge existing farms may explain
one-third to one-half of the pressure behind soaring land prices. Farm-
ing methods have advanced. Farmers have increased machinery use and
boosted their labor efficiency. They have needed a larger volume
-more-
•■ ■ -,■■:■ ■
. ■ '. . ■' . .
.'■•'..- . . ...
. . ' ' • ' ..-■-..
■ . ■■ ■ I • . . • . • V* '- '
i i
■..■•. . . . > i .
' ■ - . ■■.■.•.■ ' • j. ...
. . ■ ■•
-
■ •-.... . j : .. . ...... _ . •
•;:••.;:; •" ■ . .• -■ ij, \9verf 3£ '. : ' ...... :': ■ ■
"/"'■•". . . ". ' ■ . : ■':-.■ , -2 •' ':'■ ' '■ ! ■■ ■ . . •'•. '
;:.- ■ v ... ' . •■ . '■• . ■ ■■■ ■. • "• ••-' •.
• -• .: : . " ■ ■ .'•'■• •..••■• ' ■ -.-
- ' .■ ' : --•-..•■ '■. ' . ■ • • . ■ '• : ■
.... ........
Add Land Values - 2
of business to overcome high operating costs. All of these develop-
ments have brought on local competition to acquire more land.
If all the cost reductions resulting from adding 80 acres to
a 130-acre farm in northern Illinois were credited to the added 80, it
would amount to about $18 per acre per year. Assuming that farming is
profitable in most years, with only an occasional loss, this reduced
cost could add $450 an acre to the value of the land for the investor
who figures that his money is worth 4 percent.
If two or more prospective buyers see so much advantage in
an additional 80 acres, the competitive bidding might be hot.
Some persons consider population growth responsible for boom-
ing land prices. But unless the standard of living remained high, the
demand for land would not be greatly affected. Population changes have
generally had the greatest effect around cities, where land is shifting
out of farm use to residential purposes.
Conversion of land to non-farm use has, however, played an
important role in land values in some areas. Land for non-agricultural
purposes usually sells at a premium over the price for strictly agri-
cultural use. Such prices tend to establish "reservation prices" be-
low which land in large adjacent areas is not offered for sale. De-
mands for land for residential use, roads, airports, golf courses and
industrial plants have all helped to boost land values.
Reasons for Holding
Vlhy do owners continue to hold land when prices are so high?
Stewart and Guither point out that nothing makes people more eager to
hold onto land than to have benefited by recent land value increases.
Transfer of land into non-farm uses reduces the supply for farm use.
-more-
■
■
'
r
•
■
1
■
c
!
...
-
• .■ . .
■
■
.
■ ' ■
Add Land Values - 3
Capital gains taxes make landowners want to hold to the very peak of
prices. Many owners have received attractive offers. But when they
consider the taxes they would pay on the sale, they usually decide to
hold on for a few more years.
Farm land continues to be considered valuable for long-time
family possession. Among business and professional people, farmland
has continued to be attractive as an investment. The value of land as
a hedge against inflation has again shown up as an incentive to hold
on to present land or to acquire additional holdings.
The St. Lawrence Seaway has been considered to affect land
values. However, since its opening is still at least two years away,
not too many are estimating its influence yet.
Suggestions to Owners
People without farm experience sometimes turn to farm land
for investment. This favorable attitude toward farm real estate had
more to commend it in past years than it does at present. Now farm
operations require large cash payments for fertilizers and other items.
Breeding, feeding and crop production programs have become a very
technical business.
Older landowners would do well to be careful, in writing their
wills, not to hamstring their heirs with too tight provisions. As long-
time investment, a farm will continue to have much to recommend it.
But it is not wise for a will-maker to put too many restrictions upon
the widow or other heirs to prevent them from selling land to a more
capable or suitable owner.
Sometimes several members of a family may receive shares in
a farm, one of the heirs may decide to buy the farm from the others
and obligate himself to make large payments. This added burden may
greatly restrict his financial progress. Many times a young farmer who
can use his earnings to build up operations as a tenant will build up
his net worth much faster in that v/ay than by being saddled with a heavy
debt on real estate.
Farms have been getting larger. But this change is not nec-
essarily bad. The farmer who has the machinery, the labor and the finan-
cial means to acquire more land is probably doing a wise thing.
-30-
HDG:mg
2/21/58
1
■
- .
■
1
..
.
'
■
.
"'
!
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plow-Planting Corn Not Always Best System
DIXON SPRINGS — Wet spring weather means that at least some
tillage will be needed to keep weeds under control before corn is
planted on fall-plowed land.
George McKibben, extension specialist at the University of
Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment Station, reports that weed growth
cuts corn yields tremendously.
Clover sod was winter-plowed at the Station in December 1956.
On May 1, 1957, corn was planted in this soil with conventional seedbed
preparation and with no seedbed preparation.
At planting time rye grass and weeds were already starting to
grow on the plots. Normally corn under both planting methods would have
been sprayed with 2,4-D as soon as all the crop had come up. However,
wet weather delayed the spraying until the corn was about 10 inches tall,
and more rain kept the researchers out of the fields until just before
layby time, when they were able to cultivate once.
Under these adverse conditions, plots with the conventional
seedbed preparation produced a yield of 74.9 bushels of 15.5 percent
moisture corn an acre compared with GO .8 bushels an acre on the plow-
Plant plots. Stand averaged 12,988 plants an acre on the conventional
system plots and 14,414 plants an acre on the plow-plant plots.
Early fall plowing on the clay soils of southern Illinois, for
example, may be almost smooth by spring. In this case the furrows may
-more-
•
•
••' "
.
••
.
•
. '
. ■
l
.
. '
•
.-
Add Plow-Plant - 2
be sealed over enough to let grass and weeds germinate in the entire
field, McKibben points out.
With no seedbed preparation, weeds under these conditions will
get a jump on the corn and provide over-competition during the growing
season. In this case at least some tillage would be desirable to set
back the weed and grass growth and give the corn an even chance. Pre-
emergence spraying with Randox and spraying with 2,4- D after the corn
has come up would further delay the weed and grass growth until the
corn could be cultivated.
One other problem that the Dixon Springs researchers found
with the plow-plant system on winter-plowed ground was the difficulty
they had in covering the corn kernels in the split left by the planter
runners.
-30-
RAJrcm
2/21/58
•
•
•
"'
-■
.
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Corn Drying Bins Are Good Insurance
URBANA — Much wet corn in Illinois cribs this winter points
up the advantages of having farm storage bins equipped with drying
equipment.
E. L. Hansen, farm structures engineer at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture, believes that every farm should have
at least one bin where grain can be brought into condition. It can be
good insurance against the many calculated risks farmers take each
year with the weather and prices at harvest.
Intelligent planning for next fall's storage problems before
warm weather sets in this spring may make money for some farmers,
Hansen believes. This is particularly true if ear corn now in stor-
age contains more than 20 percent moisture and the farmer may need new
storage before harvest this year.
A fan bought to dry corn in an emergency can be used in various
ways; one way is in a bin drying system. Commercial bins with perfor-
ated floors are also available, or sections of perforated floor can
be used to convert present circular or rectangular bins for drying.
With their own drying facilities, farmers can combine oats
a week earlier than they usually would. They can harvest soybeans
before they shatter badly and can pick corn early when the weather is
good. Combining can start earlier in the morning than normal and con-
tinue later at night. The same equipment can be used for drying hay.
-more-
. .■ . ■ <
■. . : .. '■.■.....:
■ '• ■ . . ■ . . ■ 3 £ 3 •:.
. . ' ' £ * .3 ■.■■•:■■.. .
, ■. \ ■ ■ ■.■•■-■■.■. ■ '. : . . j
" - . ■ . vj : :: . ■ i : \ .
.'::.- i .' •- ; ■ T. ..*.• • -' •..
. '.-- ■•. i . .• " :-'
..'■•■. ■ :■ ■-- " •■ '"• '.. ft] .' >;■; ■ ■ ■' ; ■
-..-... '. ..-.'.• .;."•/ ■•":'/•,■: | fl. .' ■- ■ '•• ' ■' -
' ' : ' • '• -. : ' ■ ' "* 3 "V .'•'"' f. . -VJ • ".
:. • : .•••;■■:.' . . .-.-
" . ■ "■> k " " ': . '.
• : ••".'. .■->;•■.• . • : . .. . " $i
. :i . : • . . . • ••••:. ■ . • •.•••'' .. t -'<•;
£ :■-■ ..' • . . . : . • .•'.:•:• C\ ■:/. ■ .
\dd Corn Storage - 2
This year farmers can get 16 cents a bushel for resealing
their loan corn on the farm. Hansen points out that a farmer who needs
any type of farm building might investigate the possibility of building
it and storing resealed corn in it for a year to qualify for this pay-
nent.
A farmer who is planning to go to field shelling may want to
ouy drying bins now and shell out into them. Or, if he buys a heated
air dryer now and plans to go to field shelling, he can add a batch
drying bin this fall along with shelled corn storage. If financing is
needed, the county ASC office offers farm facility loans to finance up
to 80 percent of the cost.
Ear corn in storage should be down to 20 percent moisture by
the end of February. If it is above this mark, it should be dried to
that level for safe storage. Corn will normally keep in an 8-foot crib
in Illinois if it is down to 19 percent moisture in March and 17 per-
cent in April.
There's no problem to taking out four to five percent of the
moisture from corn mechanically, Hansen says. It's most economical to
dry it right in the crib if the crib is suitable for drying.
A heated air dryer will do the job quickly. Or the corn can
be dried more slowly with unheated air blown through it by a fan. The
same fan that is used for bin-drying shelled corn will work well on ear
corn.
It's possible to take out about one percent of moisture a day
with unheated air on a good drying day when the temperature is 60 de-
grees or above and the relative humidity is about 55 percent. It will
take about twice as long to remove one percent of moisture with un-
seated air when temperatures average 40 degrees.
However, when only three or four percent of moisture needs to
be taken out of ear corn, there'll probably be enough good drying days
during March and April to bring the moisture down to a safe level.
-30-
RAJtcm
2/21/58
.
I
5 won
.
■
'.-'. ■ • .
•
.
.
'
.
•■ •
■
■ ' ' '
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cold Weather and Higher Support Prospects Boost Grain Prices
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending February 21, 1950. )
URBANA- -Severe winter weather and prospects for new legislation turned grain
prices up this past week. Corn gained ijr to 2 cents. Soybeans also climbed about 2
cents. New crop corn, soybeans, and wheat also moved up.
The University of Illinois grain marketing staff reports that this cold
weather has greatly increased corn use. Market receipts, particularly at Chicago,
were restricted by weather, mainly the freezing of the Illinois river. Corn prices
are now almost up to the low loan rate of $1.10.
The main questions remaining in the corn market are how much high -moisture
corn farmers still have to sell and how much corn CCC will sell before summer.
Rising soybean meal prices strengthened cash soybeans. Oil prices continued
draggy in spite of fairly large export prospects. Soybean meal for immediate shipment
was very scarce, and prices have gained about $5 & ton in three weeks.
Processing margins have absorbed this price increase and are now large
enough to encourage a big crush. But since soybean inventories are large, further
price rises in meal are not likely.
Soybeans have now reached the price for which CCC will sell next summer.
Any further price gains won't last long. Stronger prices on 1958 futures were based
on the possibility that 1958 support prices would be held at 1957 levels by Congress.
New crop wheat prices are now higher than they will probably be next summer
unless the support rate is raised.
Commodity price strength may continue if the current recession is approach-
ing an end. Commodities usually lead general business conditions down and back up.
E&rly in 1950, commodities turned strong well before it was clear that the I9U9 re-
cession had ended.
HDG:dm ~3°~
2-21-58
1
I
•
■
■
• '
.
•
-
'.
■
A*V£
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday Flying Farmers Day at Festival
URBANA — Thursday, March 27, has been set as Flying Farmers Day
at Farm and Home Festival at the University of Illinois, Urbana.
All of the more than 900 members of the Illinois Flying Farm-
ers have been invited to attend the Festival on that date, says Henry
Becker, Mason City, group president.
Becker does not plan to hold a formal meeting of the club in
Urbana. Members will register at the Festival headquarters in the
Livestock Pavilion on the south campus of the University. They will
then informally visit the Festival exhibits and attend the speaking
sessions as they wish.
Arrangements have been made for the Flying Farmers to use
the Illini Airport north of Urbana on Route 45 as their landing field
on March 27, Becker reports. Transportation to and from the University
will be furnished by Airport Manager Louis Dyson and members of the
Champaign County Flying Farmers.
Friday, March 28, will be the alternate date for Flying
Farmers Day if Thursday's weather prohibits flying.
-30-
RAJ:cm
2/25/58
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
junior Calf Sale Averages $159 a Head
URBANA — Illinois 4-H and FFA dairy project members paid an
average of $159.57 a head for the 81 purebred dairy calves that were
auctioned in the 10th annual Junior Dairy Calf show and sale last
Saturday, February 22, at the University of Illinois.
The sale, sponsored by the Illinois Purebred Dairy Cattle
Association, totaled $12,925. The average price was $8 less than in
last year's sale.
Richard Ummel, Saybrook, paid the top price for a calf at
the sale, $390 for a Holstein consigned by Rock River farms, Byron.
By breeds, seven Ayrshires in the sale averaged $105, with a
top of $150; 12 Brown Swiss averaged $145, with a top of $285 for two
calves; 19 Guernseys averaged $204, with a top of $380; 24 Holsteins
averaged $179, with a top of $390 and 19 Jerseys averaged $118, with a
top of $200.
(Attached is a complete list of buyers in the sale by breeds.)
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/25/58
•
■
•
.
j
.
List, of Buyers — 1958 Illinois Junior Dairy Calf Sale, February 22,
Urbana, Illinois
Ayrshire - 7
James Beck, Rt. 1, Charleston
Dick Cromwell, Rt. 3, Chrisman — two calves
Mary E. Swaner, Rt. 1, Wapella
M, Howard Cazel, Rt. 2, Sullivan
George Cromwell, Rt. 3, Chrisman
J. Samuel Haggard, Box, 104, Sherman
Brown Swiss - 12
Jerry Huffman, Paris — two
Edwin Dahmm, Rt. 1, Beason — two
James D. Gordon, Rt. 1, Watseka
W. R. Smith, Jr., Enfield
Dennis Buhrmaster, Milford
John 0. Watson, Rt. 3, Paris — two
Gerald storey, Enfield — two
James H. Call, Washington
Guernsey - 19
Sarah Steidinger, Rt. 1, Fairbury
Judy Steidinger, Rt. 1, Fairbury
Elroy Busboom, Thomasboro
Alan F. Rowland, Rt. 2, Gardner
Bob Reutter, Cissna Park
Ralph C. Walters, Rt. 1, Monmouth
Lloyd Stephens, Colfax
Glenn Allen Bauer, Cissna Park
Bryan L. McAllister, Rt. 1, Pittsfield
Larry Dean Golden, Rt. 2, Manito
George Wilier, Rt. 4, Quincy
Gary Lee Voelker, Rt. 1, Carlock
Marvin Dale Voelker, Rt. 1, Carlock
William Fugate, Rt. 2, Fairbury
David zimmer, Emden
Sharon Louise Yokey, Rt. 1, Lake City
David Wayne Yokey, Rt. 1, Lake City
Ronald Kelsey, Bone Gap
Keith Howland, Gardner
Holstein - 24
R. Kent Peverly, Rt. 1, Clinton
Bill Crouch, Casey — two
John Phillips, Morris
Roger Nagel, Rt. 1, Monee
Michael Walden, Rt. 1, Mode
Lynne Huddleston, Rt. 1, Charleston
David Angel, Rt. 1, West York — two
-more-
•'. ; •. . ' •
'
•
,
• r i
•
'
.. . .''
Add Holstein - 2
Richard Ummel, Rt. 2, Saybrook — two
Everett Honegger, Rt. 1, Cissna Park
Norman J, Harms, Rt. 1, Fairbury
Duane Bailie, Roberts
Dean Cole, Rt. 3, Sullivan
Carol Jean Crocker, Rt. 1, Manteno
Jerry Farrow, Eldred
Daniel Halpin, Gardner
Myrna Christy, Rt. 1, Sullivan — two
Joan Marie Davis, Rt. 2, Windsor
Arthur Dennis Leming, Hampshire
Jimmy Stauf fenberg, Rt. 1, Manteno
John M. Irwin, Beason
jersey - 19
Gary Tenhouse, Rt. 1, Liberty
Wayne E. Schneider, Rt. 2, New Athens
Donald W. McCabe, Rt. 1, Pontiac — two
Scott, s. Swaner, Rt. 1, Wapella
James H. McCabe, Rt. 1, Pontiac
Roger Kohl Fox, Kankakee
Rita Huls, Rt. 2, Rantoul — two
James Gleeson, Rt. 1, Colfax
Roger E. Swaner, Rt. 1, Wapella
John R. Martin, Rt. 1, Louisville
John Wesley Claudon, Lexington
Marshall Huls, Rt. 2, Rantoul — two
Patsy G. Kessler, Mode
Gerald W. Kessler, Mode
Chalmers Steinlicht, Rt. 1, Colfax
Ray Ropp, Rt. 1, Normal
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/25/53
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ford County Ranks High in Brucellosis Eradication
URBANA — Ford county reported the lowest percentage of cattle
reacting to brucellosis blood testing in Illinois during 1957, accord-
ing to Dr. G. T. Woods, extension veterinarian of the University of Il-
linois. The report was compiled by the Illinois Division of Livestock
Industry, Springfield.
Ford county reported 0,24 percent of reactors from tests of
9,684 head of cattle in 757 herds. Kendall county, reporting 0.35 per-
cent, ranked second: and Kankakee county, with 0.36 percent, was a close
third.
Brucellosis (Bang's disease) is a dual- threat disease. It
causes abortion, sterility and reduced milk production in cattle, cost-
ing Illinois farmers an estimated $3 million loss annually in milk and
meat. It can also infect human beings, causing a long, incapacitating
iUness known as undulant fever. It attacks swine also, causing abor-
tion and bone damage.
Incidence of brucellosis in Illinois dairy cattle, as in-
dicated by ring test results, has dropped from 32.5 percent to 3.2 per-
cent in the past four years. Voluntary blood testing for brucellosis
in Illinois beef and dairy cattle showed a drop from 7.4 percent of.
reactors in 1939 to 1.39 percent in 1957 . Reported cases of undulant
fever in man dropped from 554 in 1947 to 141 in 1955.
In January 1947 the national prevalence of brucellosis was
5 percent. Losses in milk, calves and dairy cows replaced because of
-more-
■
.
•
. •• •
■
-
.
'
-
■
J .
.
. -
...
•
:
■
i
,dd Brucellosis - 2
rucellosis infection amounted to an estimated $91,941,000 in terms of
oday's values. In July 1957 the national prevalence of the disease
as 1.7 percent. On the basis of current values, it is estimated that
1th each 0.5 percent reduction in this disease the annual monetary
oss is cut by about $9,000,000.
More than half of the states have set dates in 1960 or sooner
is deadlines for eradicating brucellosis. All states are now qualified
:o participate in an accelerated eradication program backed by the
iederal government. The Illinois program provides state and federal
.ndemnity funds for farmers who market brucellosis- infected cattle
ror slaughter.
An area is certified when tests show that the infection rate
ias been reduced to not more than one percent of the cattle and five
percent of the herds. A total of nine states, Puerto Rico and 464
counties in 27 other states are now certified.
Forty-seven Illinois counties are now enrolled in the com-
pulsory testing or area program. Several of these counties should soon
be qualified for modif ied-certif ied status, says Dr. Woods.
Attanining a modified brucellosis-free status is only the
first phase in the over-all eradication program. As long as there is
even a small percentage of infection, the danger of spread and increase
°f the disease remains.
-30-
JERrcm
2/25/58
.
'
!
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
;lean Up Before Busy Farm Season Starts
URBANA — Before the busy spring season starts, clean up the
lazards around your farm that have accumulated this past winter.
Every farm family should plan a "spring clean-up" all around
bhe farm, says o. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Agriculture.
"A place for everything and everything in its place" is a
good safety slogan. Disorder around the farm and home is responsible
for hospitalizing one out of every five accident victims.
Check the farm shop. Make sure that tools are in good repair
and in their right place. Remove the accumulation of scrap metals,
debris and trash, paper, packing boxes and boards that are fire hazards
and ideal hiding places for rats.
Many barns become cluttered with things used during the
winter. With the coming of spring, it is important to find suitable
locations or storage space for feed, tools, harness and other equipment
to keep alleyways and work areas clear. A little clean-up now not only
will provide a healthful environment, but will help to save time and
manpower throughout the coming farming season.
-30-
OLHtcm
V25/58
•
■
.
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ugoslavia Showing High Interest in American Hybrid Corn
URBANA — American hybrid corn is proving itself a top-notch
oodwill ambassador in Yugoslavia.
This report comes from D. E. Alexander, University of Illi-
ois corn breeder, who has just returned from a four-month assignment
n Yugoslavia for the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United
ations.
Alexander says hybrid corn development has been under way
n Yugoslavia only since 1952. The foundation seed stock came from
jnerican agricultural experiment stations,
Yugoslav corn breeders have also developed some strains of
:heir own that will withstand their cold spring climate and late sum-
ler drouth conditions. Some of their best hybrids of the future will
>e crosses between Yugoslav and American inbred lines.
The Yugoslavs appreciate American scientific progress in hy-
brid corn production. Alexander points out that five of the top seven
:orn breeders in that country have taken advanced training in the United
States — all at the University of Illinois. In addition, several of
their top agricultural research administrators have studied here.
In appreciation for the American help they have received in
hybrid corn development, the Yugoslav scientists have offered any of
their hybrid lines to this country. Alexander says that some of their
early-maturing strains might do very well in some the northern states.
-more-
•
..
■
•
:
'
".
Vdd Yugoslav Corn - 2
Even though the Yugoslav farmers now average only 20 bushels
)f corn an acre, the government has set up a 60-bushel average goal.
Alexander feels that this goal would not be impossible on many of
:heir valley soils. He reports seeing one 220-acre seed field outside
Belgrade that yielded 196 bushels an acre.
Because of its very recent introduction, hybrid corn makes
jp only about 5 percent of the total acreage in Yugoslavia. Here in
Illinois farmers plant practically 100 percent hybrids. But the
Jugoslav government is making every effort to expand hybrid corn use.
Special cash prizes have been established to induce higher
/ields from use of hybrid corn. On the large state and collective
farms, a prize of one million dinars is offered for every 100-hectare
field or larger that averages 70 quintals per hectare. In American
units this would amount to about $1,600 for a yield of 120 bushels an
acre. Prizes are also offered on the smaller privately owned farms.
Prizes must be divided so that 40 percent goes to the farm
workers, 10 percent to the farm managers, 20 percent to the agronomists
and 30 percent to the experiment station staff members who developed
the hybrids.
Getting all Yugoslav farmers to adopt hybrids will not be
easy, Alexander reports. So far the amount of seed has been limited.
But a much bigger obstacle is getting farmers to accept hybrids. He
points out that in the United States the Agricultural Extension Service
and the hybrid corn companies have made an ideal team to sell farmers
on hybrids.
But the extension service is not so well organized in Yugo-
slavia, and there are no commercial corn companies. Cost of hybrid
seed and long-established customs will make the change-over there much
slower.
Even today 90 percent of all corn grown in Yugoslavia is
Planted on small private farms and only 10 percent on the large state-
owned or collective farms.
-30-
HDGtcrn
2/25/58
■
V
-
•
,
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ian Drill Box seed oats Survey
URBANA — About 1,500 Illinois farmers will assist this spring
ith the first "drill box" survey ever made in the state.
W. o. Scott, University of Illinois agronomist, announced
oday that this survey would be made to find out exactly what kind of
eed oats farmers are actually using. The survey is being carried out
ointly between the University of Illinois department of agronomy and
he Illinois .Crop Improvement Association,
Farm advisers, crop improvement inspectors, agronomy depart-
ent staff members and some vocational agriculture teachers will get
hree-pound oat samples directly from the field where farmers are plant-
ng. They will cover the major spring oat-growing area, which includes
he 66 counties north of U. S. highway 40,
When the samples are collected, the surveyors will also find
ut what variety was planted, where seed was obtained, whether it was
ertified and, if cleaned or treated, how it was done. Then the sarn-
ies will be sent to the Illinois Crop Improvement Association labora-
ory where each will be tested for germination and purity.
Scott says that with this information they hope to find out
hat kind and quality of seed farmers are using and how they can help
o prevent losses if poor seed is used.
Surveys in other states have shown that many farmers have used
'oor quality seed. Definite facts about the seed Illinois farmers are
sing will help the department of agronomy and the crop improvement
association plan a quality seed program.
-30-
iDGtcm
!/25/58
.0 .
■ '
.
.
•-C
■
• -
•
•
■
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Landscaping Has Two Purposes
"by H. R. Kemmerer
Specialist in Landscape Gardening, University of Illinois
URBANA — Utility and attractiveness are the two main reasons for landscap-
ing home grounds. Utility includes layout of the drive, walks and other useful
areas. Attractiveness involves the neat and orderly arrangement of the parts into
one harmonious unit.
Although most home owners consider these twin aims when they landscape,
they seldom follow a systematic course of action.
A good job of developing home grounds requires a plan. A plan helps to
reduce trial and error. Planning helps to get year-round color in gardens through
proper choice of plants. It also permits grounds to he landscaped over a period of
years and still he attractive and useful.
To arrive at a plan, first read as much on landscaping as possible.
Second, make a scaled drawing of your home grounds. Use this drawing as a basis
for developing your plan. Next, divide the grounds into three areas — public, pri-
vate and service.
The public area, lying between the street and the house, should consist
of a large, open lawn. It should also include a foundation planting to make the
house blend with the surrounding landscape. And a few trees will provide framing
and shade for the front of the house.
The lawn area provides an open vista to the house, which is the primary
center of interest in the plan.
The service area is used for carrying out the various duties involved in
keeping a home. Usually it is most appropriate to locate this area at the rear of
-more-
•
•
'
■ ■
.
• •
■ -'
' '
•
'
-2-
the house. The private area, which may "be called the outdoor living room, might
include a terrace, f lover garden, children's play area and large, open lawn. Vege-
table gardens are usually located in the service area.
After you divide the home grounds into the three areas and determine the
exact location of walks, trees, shrubs, etc., your next problem is choosing proper
plants for the various locations.
This is not an easy problem to solve. But some good publications on
ornamental trees and shrubs will help you to select desirable and harmonious plants.
-30-
PAC:cm
2/25/58
•
.
••
•
'
•
A.$£
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Home Electric Circuits Carry Dangerous Voltage
URBANA — Many people shrug or laugh off the idea that low-
voltage electricity in home and farm buildings is dangerous, says 0. L.
Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the University of Illinois
College of Agriculture.
But too often somebody gets hold of a 110- or 220-volt cur-
rent that he can't shake loose. And sometimes the skeptic pays with
severe shock, burns or death.
Remember, it isn't just the voltage but. resistance of the
body that determines the degree of danger. Working around water or
on a damp, wet floor lessens your resistance.
Check all appliance cords and plugs to see that there isn't
any broken insulation or bare wire that you can touch that could shock
you. if your job calls for an electrical appliance or tool, know all
Possible hazards and the precautions to take.
Don't let low voltage lay you low.
-30-
0LH:cm
2/28/58
■
'
..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University of Illinois Hosts Land Institute This Summer
URBANA — The University of Illinois Department of Agricultural
Economics will host the Land Economics Institute June 17 to August 8,
according to PI. G. Halcrow, head of the department of agricultural
economics.
The institute/ most recently held at Iowa State College in
1949, will provide an unusual opportunity for advanced study of problems
involving use and ownership of land. It will attract outstanding land
economists from more than 14 universities and farm organizations in
both the United States and Europe.
The eight-week session will attempt to answer questions deal-
ing with industrial and highway encroachment on food supplies, erosion
threats, present tenure provisions and water rights.
Participants will include research workers, educators, land-
use administrators, students working for advanced degrees and others
desiring a better understanding of current land problems and their
solution.
The academic program consists of graduate course work, semi-
nars and lectures.
Institute sponsors include the North Central Land-Tenure Re-
search committee, the Southeast Land-Tenure Research committee, the
Southwest Land-Tenure Research committee, the Committee on Tenure,
Land Values and Credit of the Great Plains Council, the United States
Department of Agriculture, the Farm Foundation and the University of
Illinois.
-more-
I .
. '
.
■
.
v.
V
■ ■ ■
".•■■•
■ : '
I
'
■ ■■ ■■■■:}
■
. .
•'■
.
..-•■•• • . -
. • ■:-•■ ■• •.
i
' !
• .-:
Add Land Institute - 2
Halcrow emphasizes that a limited number of research grants
or fellowships are available to qualified graduate students attending
the institute for academic credit.
First-class housing and board accommodations are offered.
For further information, write to H. G. Halcrow, head, de-
partment of agricultural economics, University of Illinois, Urbana.
-30-
RVM: cm
2/23/58
■■■
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Cows Eat More When Fed Thyroprotein
URBANA — Dairy cows eat more feed when they get thyroprotein
in their rations.
Leo Fryman, extension dairy specialist at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture, reports feeding trials at the Univer-
sity of Illinois and the USDA showing that cows fed thyroprotein re-
quire 25 to 30 percent more feed than cows not fed this material.
Some cows on the test were stimulated to produce more milk
in the last half of their lactation when they were fed thyroprotein than
other cows that were not. But because of the widely varying responses
to this material, returns above feed cost also varied widely, Fryman
reports.
In cows showing the best response to thyroprotein, the re-
turns above feed cost increased slightly. But in groups of cows show-
ing average response or less, the returns were lower when thyroprotein
was fed.
In addition, cows fed thyroprotein during hot weather lost
from 40 to 135 pounds of body weight, in four weeks. Cows not getting
the material held their weight steady. Thyroprotein increased heart
beat rate and as much as 50 percent in breathing rate in the tests.
This indicates a higher metabolism rate that accounts for the need for
more feed.
These studies indicate that it is not advisable to feed thyro-
protein to the average dairy herd, Fryman points out. It is not per-
missible to feed it to cows on official Herd Improvement Registry or
Advanced Registry testing. And no publicity is given to records made
in herds in Dairy Herd Improvement Associations when thyroprotein is
fe3, and all records completed in such herds are marked to indicate
that thyroprotein was fed.
-30-
RAjrcm
2/28/58
■
■
■ ■
■
:
l
■
■
■
■
•
■
.
i .
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Give Timely Topics on Festival Program
URBANA — Integration in the livestock business is one of the
"hot" topics on Illinois farms these days that will be taken apart and
put together again during the Farm and Home Festival program on March
March 27-29.
Major emphasis during the Festival on the University of Illi-
nois campus will be on exhibits and demonstrations of the work of the
College of Agriculture. But two morning and two afternoon sessions
in three locations each day will discuss current farm and home problems.
For instance, farmers may want to hear the latest research
findings and current thinking from College staff members on corn drying
and storage problems, liquid versus dry fertilizers, minimum tillage,
dwarf corn, farm policy, handling summer forage, raising hogs in con-
finement and getting started in farming.
For the ladies, such topics as easier work days, homes for
town and country, the personality of your home, floral design, food
demonstrations and getting and keeping the weight you want will be on
the bill of fare.
These discussions, led by College staff members, are scheduled
for 9:30 and 10:30 each morning and at 1:00 and 2:00 o'clock each after-
noon, Thursday, Friday and Saturday of the Festival.
Presentations will be put on in the auditoriums of Bevier Hall,
the Animal Sciences Laboratory and the Veterinary Medicine building.
Complete programs will be available at the registration desks for all
Farm and Home Festival visitors.
Festival planners emphasize also that exhibits, demonstrations
and discussion sessions during the three days are planned for everyone--
city people, children and rural non-farm persons as well as Illinois
farm families. Housing will be available for those who wish to stay
more than one day.
-30-
RAJ:cm
2/28/58
n
.
.: ■
i
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
bate 4-H Foundation to Hold Annual Meeting
URBANA — Plans for 1958 will highlight the annual meeting of
ne Illinois 4-H Foundation on Friday, March 7, at the University of
Llinois.
W. G. Kammlade, associate director of the University's Cooper-
tive Extension Service and chairman of the Foundation, reports that
lie 1957 activities and expenditures will also be reviewed during the
eeting.
Other Foundation officers include D. G. Womeldorff, Dixon,
ice-chairman, and 0. F. Gaebe, Urbana, executive secretary-treasurer.
Other reports will be given during the meeting by Womeldorff
s chairman of the program committee; by I. E. Parett, Chicago, as
hairman of the ways and means committee; by otto Steffey, Chicago, as
hairman of the investment committee; and by Trevor L. Jones, Spring-
ield, chairman of the study committee.
A feature of the noon luncheon meeting in the Spice Box,
afeteria at Bevier Hall, home economics building, will be reports by
elegates to programs sponsored by the Illinois 4-H Foundation. These
eports will include delegates to National 4-H Club Congress, the Inter-
ational Farm Youth Exchange, National 4-H Club Conference and National
afety Congress.
A special showing of the Illinois 4-H Camp movie has been
^ranged for 424 Mumford Hall at 1:30 p.m. Part of the cost of this
lew 4-H film was paid from Foundation funds.
-30-
UVJ: cm
V28/58
.
.
.
'.
■
:
■ " '
-•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Seek Farm Home "Facelifting" Entries in Contest
URBANA — One of the features of the Farm and Home Festival at
the University of Illinois, March 27, 28 and 29, will be a farm home
remodeling exhibit as part of the "Wonder World of Home and Family" in
Bevier Hall,
Under the direction of Miss Catherine Sullivan and Keith
Hinchcliff, extension housing specialists at the University's College
of Agriculture, the contest is designed to show Festival visitors what
can be done to revitalize and improve old farm homes.
Entries in the contest consist of "before" and "after" snap-
shots of either convenience or appearance improvements to Illinois farm
homes. They may be either inside or outside shots. Improvements should
have been made within the last five years.
Award ribbons will be presented to winning entries at the
Festival. A sweepstakes award is planned for the county with the most
award winners.
To enter the contest, ask your county farm or home adviser
for an entry blank. Deadline for entries is March 21. Judging will
be done on March 24.
-30-
RAJ: cm
2/28/58
.
j
■
.
.
■
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plant Pine for a Good Investment
DIXON SPRINGS — Landowners who fail to plant pine on land not
being used for agricultural crops in southern Illinois are passing up
a good investment.
Thinning studies at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs
Experiment Station in Pope County show this fact, says W . R. Boggess,
Station forest researcher.
A total of 13 cords of wood from each acre has been cut
during the past eight years from an intensively managed shortleaf pine
plantation at the station. And IS cords remain in the plantation for
future cuts, Boggess says.
The plantation was established in 1937 and thinned in 1950,
1955 and 1953. Before the first thinning, in February 1950, the total
stand volume was about 12 cords an acre. Thus the three thinnings have
removed more than the original volume, and after the 1958 cut the stand
is 25 percent greater than it was in 1950.
Tree quality has improved with each thinning because the
lower grade trees have been cut. This adds up to a combination that
is hard to beat as an investment and one that requires a minimum amount
of effort after the trees are planted.
The state Division of Forestry still has trees available for
planting this spring, order seedlings now and put idle acres to work.
Get the proper forms from the farm adviser or district forester. A
small amount of cash plus some of your own labor for planting is all
that is needed to get started in a project that will grow more valuable
with each harvest.
-30-
RAj-.cm
2/28/58
;
'
■
.
•
-
■
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending February 28, 1958)
Strong Demand, Light Receipts, Small CCC Sales Help Corn Trade
URBANA--Good demand from the South and East, rather light market receipts
and small CCC sales strengthened the corn market recently, according to the Uni-
versity of Illinois grain marketing staff.
The eastern and southern demand will remain good because the livestock
feeding rate is high in these areas and their 1957 crop was relatively small.
Decreases in market receipts are probably due to cold and muddy weather
that blocked the waterways and slowed farm shelling operations. Even though corn
sales from the major areas have been very large, there is a lot of high-moisture
corn left that will have to move. About 30 percent of all corn loan applications
are being rejected because of high moisture.
Commodity Credit Corporation has clearly departed from its plan to sell
^00 million bushels of corn during the current marketing year. From January 1
through mid-February, it had sold only Ik million bushels compared with 5^ mil-
lion in the same period last year. Sales from October 1 to January 1 totaled
about 68 million bushels compared with 56 million the year before.
Had CCC been selling as fast as it did a year ago, prices could not
have recovered recently. In the months ahead, it appears that CCC will try to
keep sales as small as possible. There will be less corn to take over this sum-
mer because farmers have put less into loan. But the 1956 corn taken over last
year is high in moisture and may cause trouble. CCC now holds more corn thanit has
ever had. And the corn is older. It is hard to see how CCC sales can be kept as
low as they have been in the past two months.
-more-
:
-
■
"
•
'
■
-
■
■ c
.
.■
" '
■ ■
■
■ ' ■ '
■
•
-2-
Soybean crush and use of soybean meal set new records in January.
Excellent progress is being made in using up the 1957 soybean crop. But proc-
essors1 supplies are still relatively large.
-30-
HDG:cam
2/28/58
•
M
■
Farm News
'ERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ro Discuss Milk Production on Festival Program
URBANA — How size of the dairy herd influences efficiency of
operation will be one of the main topics of interest to Illinois dairy-
men at the Farm and Home Festival program at the University of Illi-
nois on Saturday, March 29.
Two progressive dairy farmers, Don Dean, Champaign county,
and Paul Montavon, DeKalb county, will appear on the program as members
of a panel to present their experiences. Dean has a large herd, while
Montavon has a smaller but highly productive herd. Both men will ex-
plain in detail how they handle their herds to keep unit cost of pro-
duction to a minimum.
Their comments will be supplemented by short reports by
toy van Arsdall, agricultural economics department, College of Agri-
culture, and Leo Fryman, extension dairyman, University of Illinois.
Van Arsdall will tell about the results of various research
Projects designed to provide information on the effect of size of the
lairy herd on efficiency of operation. Fryman will show that labor
Jost per cow was lower in larger herds in northeastern Illinois. He
/ill also report on relation of size of DHIA herds to level of milk
md butter fat production.
There will be plenty of time for questions and discussion.
r« G, Cash, extension dairyman, University of Illinois, will serve as
>anel moderator and discussion leader.
-30-
>AJ: cm
I
■ ■ ■ : ■
■
•
•
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ian Special Session for High School Students
URBANA — Illinois high school students are especially invited
o attend Farm and Home Festival at the University of Illinois on
aturday, March 29.
H. W. Hannah, associate dean of the College of Agriculture,
cports a special afternoon program in the Animal sciences Laboratory
:o tell high school students about the College and the University.
Fields of agriculture, home economics and veterinary medicine
leed more college students, Dean Hannah says. Main purpose of this
liscussion session is to stimulate young men and women to prepare for
idmission to the University and to tell them how to do it.
Student leaders in the three areas of agriculture, home
iccnomics and veterinary medicine will tell the visitors why they came
;o college, how they are financing their education and what they plan
-.0 do after graduation. Well-known alumni will also take part in the
liscussion as good examples of successful graduates.
Brief presentations by staff members will cover some of the
detailed information about college entrance requirements, scholarships
nd courses of study available to students. A general session will be
ollowed by three simultaneous sessions in which potential agriculture,
ome economics and veterinary medicine students can have their questions
nswered.
Parents, alumni, counselors, farm and home advisers and voca-
ional agriculture and home economics teachers are all invited to share
his session with the high school students and College students, staff
nd alumni.
-30-
^J:cm
/4/58
• • . ■■:. . .
j j
.
. -•
• , I ..•-•■■ ■ • ■ •••
■ ■■ I . • :•:•■■
• . :
... .. n ■ ■"■
' I • ' ■ "
. • • • ■ ■ •
. . ' I
...... ; • ■• ' • . • • -
.'
; • • ■ .
. * ■'•'•' '
• . '
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
png-Fed Cattle Make Money in 1957
URBANA — Long-fed good to choice steer calves and yearlings
ide the most money for Illinois farmers in 1957.
Steer calves averaged about $43 a head above feed costs,
sng-fed good to choice yearling steers returned about $45, Compared
ith a year before, steer calves averaged about $3 a head more, while
sarlings returned about $3.50 less.
Short-fed good to choice heavy steers bought in the fall of 1956
ailed to pay their feed cost by almost $2 a head. A year ago they
sturned only 24 cents a head above feed costs.
These figures are from actual farm records of Illinois cattle
eeders cooperating with the Farm Bureau Farm Management Service.
. G. Mueller, University of Illinois agricultural economist in charge
f the record analysis, explains the loss on the short-fed heavy cattle
iiis way:
Most of these short- fed heavy cattle were sold early in 1957,
2fore fat cattle prices moved up. The long-fed calves and yearlings
2re sold later in the year, after prices had advanced. Also, lower
:>sts of gains on the lighter cattle provided a substantial margin be-
^een feed costs and sale price.
Heifer and steer calf feeding programs made about the same
:turn during 1957. For steer calves the average return was $150 for
'ery $100 worth of feed fed. The heifers returned $147.
-more-
'
- •
•
'
. - •
•
.
■■•
.
■
■ '. • • " ;
•
i -
■ ■
.
.'
. . . ' • ■
, ■ ■
'-
' '
■
dd Cattle - 2
On the long- fed yearling programs, summer pasture feeding
ystems produced a return of $159 for every $100 worth of feed fed,
rylot feeding programs averaged only $138, Lower costs of gains on
he pasture program accounted for this difference.
These figures are part of the 19th Annual Report of Feeder
attle from the department of agricultural economics and are based on
ecords of farmers cooperating in the Farm Bureau Farm Management Serv-
ce. More information on this report and the farm-record analysis
ade possible by the 5,000 farmers cooperating in this service will be
iven at the Farm and Home Festival on the University campus March 27-
9.
-30-
DG:Cm
/4/58
'
• ■
■
- ■ ■■ •
'
■
:
>
" ' .■•••"
•• . •■•■•
• ••
i
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
lussia Shot Children for "Humanitarian and Sanitary Reasons"
URBANA — Russian authorities shot 117 children who had glan-
lers, a disease they contracted from horses. This appalling announce-
ment was made by the Soviet Red Gazette in 1925,
The veterinary profession had been liquidated by the Russian
•evolution, and the country was left helpless to cope with glanders of
torses. Glanders is communicable and usually causes death in man.
An organized, alert veterinary profession has eliminated this
lisease from our country. This is but one example of what America's
competent veterinary profession means to human health, over and above
.ts service in safeguarding the health of animals.
Other examples and new ways of using science to control old
iiseases as well as outbreaks of new diseases will be discussed and
lemonstrated at the 1958 Farm and Home Festival on March 27, 28 and 29
>n the University of Illinois campus in Urbana.
Dr. L. E. St. Clairwill preside over a presentation of "New
rontiers in Animal Disease Control." The session is scheduled for
:30 a.m. on March 29 in Room 150 at the Veterinary Medicine building.
Drs. L. E. Boley, J. o. Alberts and P. D. Beamer will also
e on the panel.
-30-
ERrcm
Z4/58
:;..'. .-...-.• ■ ■ ■ •■■ taa
ji\
-' j. .:;• .
:-■>■ ''■ '■ - • ■ f • ' . , r . .*. r £ ::\
. ..:■.:: ;...•'•■
■'■ . ■ . ■ • • ■ . •'
•■ ■ • • ■■-... ■■ ■ . ■ ■
' ■ '■•■■?::.■ \"\o*x ' ■
...
■ .... ' * ••J';;
.... ; r:: < ■
i j . ': v.* ;••.:• . .
S - o .'v.-- . :.•■.■- ' :
■■ . :' .. •- ■ :•.. i tsv .■''.-. ' . •. ■ .'.:."
. I .. • ■■•. .•■••• • ■ .'■..>. moon ■ ■ : . IBM no ..-• . 5
: ••• ; •'■... • .• . , . * ,; -.:.;■.- " -. -• .
r - ■. - a
irS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
b's Easy to Grow Onions From Sets
"by Norman F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
Easiest and surest way to grow good onions is to use sets, either green
r dry. Sets are small "bulbs, less than an inch in diameter, that are grown from seed.
Sets are easy to plant. They produce onions earlier than does seed, and
ley are seldom troubled with smut or maggots. Early plantings of sets are not
Erected by blast or thrips as much as are onions grown from seeds or transplants.
Lso, weeds are less troublesome when sets are planted.
Onion varietie are distinguished by their color and shape. The round
allow is commonly used for garden onions. It produces good yields of dry onions
Sftt keep well in storage. It also makes good green onions. This type is called
benezer or Japanese.
The oblong yellow set is similar to the round yellow but has better keeping
jalities. This variety is called Golden Globe. The round white, called White
srtugd or White Ebenezer, produces good, tender, green onions. The round red
reduces red onions. Its variety name is Red Wethersfield.
Remember that round 3ets produce flat onions when mature, while the oblong
its produce globe-shaped onions.
What about soils and fertilizers? Onions can be grown on any soil that is
ed for gardens. However, a fertile, well-drained soil with good tilth is preferable,
rk the soil well before planting. Broadcast the fertilizer over the garden, and
rk it into the soil.
If your garden soil hasn't been tested recently, follow these general
utilizer suggestions: (l) On soil that has been heavily fertilized in previous
-more-
.
•
-2-
years, apply about 10 pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 1,000 square feet. (2) On
soil that has received little or no fertilizer, apply kO pounds of 3-12-12. (3) If
some fertilizer has been applied in recent years, use 20-25 pounds of 3-12-12 per
1,000 square feet.
Onion sets can he planted in March whenever the soil can be properly pre-
pared. Light frosts do not injure the sets. Early plantings are especially desirable
for good dry onion yields. Later plantings "Will insure a steady supply of green
onions throughout the summer. Onion sets can be obtained at grocery, seed, garden
or hardware stores.
Sets should be planted by hand in rows 1^ to 18 inches apart. For green
onions, place the sets upright in a furrow three to four inches deep. Then cover
with soil. Setting them upright prevents crooked green onions. Larger sets are
preferable for green onions. Place the sets about one inch apart in the row. At
this distance, one pound of sets will plant a 25 -foot row.
Medium-sized sets are preferred for dry onions. Small sets produce weak
plants and low yields. And large plants might produce plants that seed -out too
early. Plant them l/k to l/2 inch below the soil surface. They should be about
three to four inches apart. At this distance, one pound of sets will plant a 50-
foot row.
Green bunching onions can be harvested four to six weeks after planting.
Dry onions will be ready in three to four months. Dry onions are ready to harvest
when the necks are thoroughly dry or when approximately 95 percent of the tops have
tent over.
Pull the onions and place them under cover to dry. Then cut off the tops
about one inch above the bulb. Place the bulbs in a well-ventilated container, such
fis a slatted crate or mesh bag, and store in a cool, dry place. Good storage con-
ditions feature a temperature of about 32° F. and a relative humidity of 70 to 75
Percent.
iPAO.cm "30"
1 3 A/58
.-
j -
-
I
'
i . '
i
...
•
■
• '.
■ ■
• ;.-
- 1
-
;; . - ■
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Grain Dealers' Management Conference, April 2-3
URBANA — Robert C. Liebenow, president of the Chicago Board
of Trade, will be the main banquet speaker for the Illinois Grain
Dealers' Management Conference at the University of Illinois April 2-3.
He will speak on "Developments and opportunities in the Grain Trade"
at the banquet on Wednesday evening, April 2.
L. F. Stice, extension grain marketing specialist, reports
that during the first day's session top authorities will discuss de-
velopments in field shelling, artificial drying, storage and processing
of corn.
R. E. Greenfield, superintendent of manufacturing for the
A. E. staley Company will discuss processing of artificially dried
corn. Leo Holman, USDA agricultural engineer, will report on aerating
grain in commercial storage. Clyde Christensen, University of Minnesota
plant pathologist, will show what causes grain to spoil. A. L. Neumann,
head of the UI beef division, will discuss feeding artificially dried
corn. A panel of country grain dealers will report their corn-drying
experiences.
The second day's program will emphasize business management
problems. Robert Seymour, assistant dean of the UI College of Commerce,
will discuss what it means to manage. R. J. Mutti, UI agricultural
marketing staff, will report on opportunities in the country grain
business as shown by some of his recent field studies.
-more-
■
• :
t • •
■
' ' : •'• ■• ■' •
. .' ' ' ' ' ' '
. , ...'-.-■ .•■■■•-••
- , ■■ ' . . • .-■ ' ■ V- •'■
■...■• i
•
: ■ • ■ •
!
■'■■■'''**'
«
.
Add Grain Dealers* Conference - 2
T. A, Hieronymus, also on the UI agricultural marketing staff,
will give the latest grain price outlook. At the Thursday noon
luncheon, Paul C. Johnson, editor of Prairie Farmer,, will speak on
"Serving Your Community and Yourself. "
Reservations for the Wednesday evening banquet and the Thursday
luncheon should be sent to Norman Johnson, Division of University
Extension, University of Illinois, Urbana. All those interested in
the grain business, including elevator operators, managers, directors,
grain merchandisers and merchants, are invited.
-30-
HDGtCm
3/5/58
-.
.
■
-
.
Farm News
liVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farmers Can Get Fayette Oats This Spring
URBANA — Seed from the new Fayette oats is still available for
1957 planting, W. 0. Scott, University of Illinois agronomist announced
today.
Seed of this variety was increased for the first time last
year. In yield tests it placed among the top five in all sections of
the state.
Fayette also has shown good resistance to leaf rust, and it
matures about a week earlier than Clintland and Newton. It is espe-
cially suitable for central and south-central Illinois, where an early
variety is needed.
Farmers who want to plant this new oat can check with their
county f arm adviser* He can suggest local sources of supply.
-30-
HDG:cm
3/7/58
■
•
: ■ : ■ . •
4 *
3
" "
■
. • ■ • ■'. -■ .' ■
: . -■ • .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Repair Machinery Before Field Work Starts
URBANA — Get your machinery into good repair before field
work starts. That is the first important step in operating your equip-
ment safely, says O. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the
University of Illinois College of Agriculture,
More than 262,000 tractors with plows, discs, planters and
cultivators will soon be working in Illinois fields to put in the 1958
crop. Defective hitches, seats, clutches, wheels, brakes and steering
mechanisms and unguarded revolving parts are the things that will be
causing unnecessary accidents.
Clean all dirt, trash and grease from platforms, pedals, foot
rests and steps to assure safe footing on your equipment.
Making repairs before you start using the equipment will re-
duce costly field breakdowns as well as accidents and also make farm
work more pleasant, Hogsett says. Poorly conditioned machinery irri-
ates and tires the operator, reduces his alertness and causes careless
operation.
Field accidents often occur when an operator tries to improve
ome fault in operation that should have been fixed before he got to
he field. Hurry and carelessness account for more than 50 percent of
U farm accidents.
-30-
»LHtcm
/7/58
•
•
•
. .
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
SPECIAL PICTORIAL REPORT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Revitalize Your Old Farmhouse
URBANA — Here's what can be done with one of the old "Model-T"
Illinois farmhouses. Keith Hinchcliff, extension farm housing special-
ist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture, shows a model
of one of these old farmhouses that he has remodeled. The old front
porch is gone; the entrance has been moved to the driveway side of the
house; a new roof line, windows and a flat roof have been added to
create an up-to-date look. And new conveniences have been added inside.
See this model and learn how the old house was remodeled at
iinchcliff ' s display in the "World of Home and Family" at the Farm and
tome Festival in Urbana March 27-29. Farm families who have remodeled
heir homes during the past five years will show their work and com-
}ete for awards in a contest during the Festival. Entries will be on
display.
-30-
AJtcm
/7/58
-
■ ' -
... . • '
■
-
.
. -
. .- •
■ • •
- • ■ .
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the veek ending March 7, 195&)
Grain Prices Higher; Government Stocks and Legislation Key Factors in Future
URBANA — Grain prices moved generally higher during the Veek ending March 7;
according to the University of Illinois grain marketing staff.
Corn prices advanced largely because market receipts were very small. Ship-
ments to the primary markets dropped to about half those of a year ago. Free stocks
at Chicago are also about half as large as they were last year. Other strengthening
factors in the market include high rate of use, possible scarcity of high-quality
corn this summer and strong demand from the South and East.
CCC corn sales have also been small. In late February the CCC was selling
just over one million bushels a week compared with 10 million bushels at this time
last year. However, future CCC corn sales are almost certain to increase. Before
August, corn must be moved from bins and country elevators in Illinois and Iowa to
make room for 1957 loan corn. During this reconcentration process, corn that can't
be stored will be uncovered and will have to be sold. CCC also holds some No. 3, k
and 5 corn that it has tried to export with only moderate success. Some of this corn
may need to be sold in the domestic market.
Soybean prices were strengthened by slightly stronger oil and meal prices.
Processing margins are about 10 cents a bushel Wider than in early winter, so further
improvement in oil and meal should mean higher prices for soybeans. If enough farmers
tave put soybeans into loan, a "squeeze" could develop during the next 90 days. But
it vould end as soon as CCC acquires the beans and begins to dispose of them.
Old-crop wheat prices have moved up because of an expected shortage of "free"
'teat supplies. In southwestern markets farmers can pay off their government loans
-more-
■
■
■
r
• ■ • . , . ■■ ■ • : •
. . ■•. ■ ■
'.*.■. '
, if '
■ . ■ ■ ■ ■ ■' ■ ' ■
> ■ \ I ■ ■'
.-••..■ ....... ■ ■'
'.'.'■
■•.....•..
... ■
-. ; . ...
-
-2-
and sell their vheat for a small profit. This movement out of loan will prevent any-
substantial price improvement. New-wheat prices have strengthened on prospects that
the 1958 wheat loan will be held the same as in 1957. But under the present law sup-
ports will be 22 cents a bushel lower.
-30-
HDG:cm
3/7/58
■ •
From Extension Editorial office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
Special to City Editors
"Odor profile" Tests
Smelling Skill of
Festival Visitors
by ROBERT L. NEMCIK,Farm News Service staff Writer
URBANA — Knew an old guy once who claimed he could smell rain
coming. "It's in the air," he'd say.
When the first drops fell — six weeks later — an all-knowing
glint would come into his eyes. You didn't need to ask him what he
was thinkings "I told you soi"
Wish he'd bring his educated nose to Farm and Home Festival.
I'd like to match him — or anyone else, for that matter — with the "odor
profile" that'll be on display.
It wouldn't even be a contest. The profile would win hands-
down.
It's a simple gadget: Ladies' small compacts are filled
with wax containing a common odor and then placed on long spokes to
form a wheel (without the rim) • Turn one compact to the right position,
smell it and then open the peep-hole to see whether you guessed right.
I flunked.
Thought one compact smelled like cold cream. Another like
cough drops. still another like toothpaste. None right. And yet I
w*s sure I had whiffed every odor sometime before.
-more-
i
■
■
■
■
•
.
'
. .
'•
'
■
"'.
•
■
■"
'
•■
Add Festival - 2
I first saw this contraption while trying to dig up a story
on the Festival at the university of Illinois food-processing labora-
tory. It'll be one of many displays in the "World of Processing and
Distribution" to be shown during the March 27, 28 and 29 event on the
Urbana campus.
Evaporating Ice
Professor Al Nelson led me around the lab, showing me several
of the other exhibits.
Some were pretty startling.
Take the demonstration of preserving food by "freeze drying."
How can you dry food by freezing it? Professor Nelson ex-
plained that most people think it's necessary to melt ice before it
will evaporate. (That's what I thought.)
"But this machine works differently," he added. "It creates
a high vacuum — with a controlled amount of heat — that changes the water
to ice and then evaporates the ice I"
To show the value of this process, he brought out some
light-as-a-feather pieces of dried, cooked steak and chicken meat.
Both had been treated in this way. Been preserved for weeks without
refrigeration. He dropped them into water. A few minutes later, they
were ready to eati
"Might be a while before such a product is on the grocery
shelves, " he went on to say. "The food-processing lab is still experi-
menting with the process. And, of course, Festival visitors will see
only a demonstration model."
But a pretty startling one at thati
-more-
' ■
: . ' ■•. '• ■■'• , ■ '. • J ....
•--■■. .-. ■ ■ ■ 1 ■ .
■ • -.
. • ' ft
• i • • • ' .
• • ,•■■'.. '• ...
— ■ - .. ■■
. . . ■ . ■ .
•j ■ •
. ■ . ■
... •
b 1
to •
■
^dd Festival - 3
Irradiation Cave
Next we walked over to what looked like a small, thick-walled
/ater tank.
Not so.
This was a model of an "atomic radiation cave."
Is it used for research in food processing, too?
Yup!
Professor Nelson showed me whole chickens, "pasteurized" by
atomic radiation. Been stored under refrigeration without spoiling
for almost double the usual time.
Tasted good.
"This radiation cave model is like the big one we use at the
University of Michigan to do the pasteurizing, " he explained. "The
model gives an idea of how tremendously thick the walls are, how we
get into the cave and how we handle the source of atomic energy. "
With this, he showed how the source of the atomic rays is
stored in water in a cistern-like affair deep below the cave floor.
Materials to be irradiated are placed on the floor around the deep
well. A remote-controlled crane lifts the energy source out of the
well, and the atomic rays go to work.
"People might wonder how irradiation is done," he added.
"This is one way we've done it experimentally. And I think Festival
visitors might be interested."
Other Exhibits
And that wasn't all. Nelson said I had seen only the exhibits
already built. So I followed him into his office to find out about
those under construction.
-more-
■ • ■■-..■ -• '
• ■ .
-
■ ' .
'
f
lobi ■ , . ...
* t .• • •
■ " : ! <? • : i ? '■ '■'■■T'
.•••„.• ••:..
, •• •
I i-
■■'• ' • ■'
'•■■
-
kdd Festival - 4
He searched through a stack of folders on his desk. Came
:o one labeled "Festival." Listed a few other exhibits:
— Research on heat processing to preserve foods.
— The dairy plant of tomorrow.
— Sterile milk — milk that can be stored on a kitchen shelf
for months without refrigeration.
— New foods: "Dehydro- frozen" peas or carrots; vacuum-dried
fruits (SO dry they tinkle in their glass containers) ;
potato flakes (dried mashed potatoes) ; and the General Foods
Corporation's new "Gourmet" line.
— Food grading: What grades are, what they mean.
— Food quality measurements: Ways to judge cake.
— A walk- in meat cooler to show grades of pork and how the
grades are affected by the type of hog.
— Who gets the consumer's dollar for milk, bread and eggs?
— Building markets for farm products.
— New poultry inspection system in processing plants (like
that now being done in meat-packing plants) •
And Even More
By this time I figured my story was complete.
But then... the monkey wrench.
"Of course," Nelson said, "these are only the exhibits and
demonstrations in one world at the Festival, other worlds will deal
tfith plants, animals, services, home and family living and engineering."
Whew.1
Maybe people should come to the Festival to see for themselves.
-30-
RLNtcra
/U/58
'
.
. . - •
...
... ■ ■ ■
... . ,., , . • ■•■ ■
■ • ' • " • ■ ■'..".
1
I •■ •
r ■ ■ . ' ;• .: .' ■ ••
. ',- • ft < - ■
■ ■ ■-
;
■
.'■
.
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
Outline #1 — Girl With Wheel-Like Affair
It takes an "educated nose" to figure out what you're smell-
ing on the "odor profile," And, as funny as it may seem to Avonne
McCloskey, secretary in the University of Illinois College of Agri-
culture, she probably realizes that the profile will give Farm and
Home Festival visitors quite a contest. The gadget tests a person's
ability to determine odors.
-30-
RLN:cm
3/11/58
Outline #2 — Man With Glass-Domed Apparatus
Festival visitors will also hear Professor Al Nelson, of the
University's food-processing laboratory, explain this model of a
"freeze dryer." It demonstrates how food can be frozen — and then dried J
This food preservation method is now under test at the laboratory,
-30-
RLNrcm
3/11/58
-
• ■ •
I
■ ■ - ■ • ;
■
■. ■ ■ '
■
*
I
•
-
« a*\£
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ite to Editors; This is a round-up story on the College of Agricul-
xe's FARM AND HOME FESTIVAL. With it we express our appreciation for
,e advance coverage you have given this event. We also extend again
ir sincere invitation to visit the College during the Festival to re-
,ew the work of a dedicated staff • A copy of the program is enclosed.
Hadley Read
Extension Editor
)llege of Agriculture Readies Welcome
it for 1958 Farm and Home Festival Visitors
URBANA — Lights are burning late in many offices and labora-
sries at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture this week.
Students and staff are putting the final finishing touches
a the 125 special exhibits to be shown during the 1953 Farm and Home
sstival March 27, 28 and 29.
These exhibits are designed to show and explain some of the
ost important research and educational activities of the College. They
ill occupy more than half a mile of space in six major exhibit areas.
ach exhibit area will also feature a regular schedule of demonstra-
bly during each of the three days,
-more-
. '• •' . ;
>'•
-■•.:•■ ■ -•..'•■' •
• ;'■" : ■-'-_•■•'■' ■ "'•"•'•
'
'-■■■■-■
- — ....
I •-:'•'' - UhHf f!-J #')££
., , , ■ ,
-. *\ i r
;. • ; > •
I
•■.:.■..■:• .. . . • ■ .:.■:. ..... !.«>j - • . -■
' ' , ■ ! Jjlj
; • ■•» :
• .. ' '
-
•
■f : •• ■
.' • •••
"
• -)'..;. >■'..■."■.'..■ f v . ■, . . ...
• • lh ;.;:•;•>.: ■■,: .'■• [;-.
■ -
ti3 :
..:....■■ ...i •:....••.• .. ' . .
...
id Farm and Home Festival - 2
Festival visitors can spend all of their time looking at
dibits if they want to, or they can visit one of three auditoriums
iere special speaking programs will be going on each day.
Subjects for these programs the first day include corn drying
id storage, plant disease control, spring flower gardens, integration
\ the livestock business, easier work days, the personality of your
Dme and better homes for town and country. Similar topics will be
Lscussed during the second and third days of the Festival.
The Town and Country Art Show is one of the added Festival
ttractions. The best amateur art in Illinois will be on display,
ith discussions on art and art techniques scheduled at intervals during
he show.
Another added feature is the "For Your Home" exhibit sponsored
y the College of Fine and Applied Arts. Here the most outstanding
xamples of contemporary design in furniture, fabrics, tableware and
ppliances will be displayed.
Visitors who enjoy home- town fun will be able to attend the
own and Country Talent Show, set for Friday evening, March 28.
The grand finale to the Festival will be the denim and calico
lowboy Prom Saturday night, March 29, sponsored by College of Agri-
culture students.
Saturday will be Youth Day, with a special program designed
;or high school students, young farmers and their parents. Highlights
'ill include a special session on careers in agriculture, veterinary
ie<Ucine and home economics. A style show is scheduled for Saturday
'orning. Another session will discuss how to get started in farming.
-more-
■
.
.
1
•
■
.
•
I
-
:
■
■
-
-
dd Farm and Home Festival - 3
Festival visitors will find special parking areas reserved
or their convenience. Transportation to and from parking areas will
e provided,
A food service committee has completed plans for a huge
ork-chop barbecue each noon and is prepared to serve as many as
0,000 people each day.
For the benefit of those who find it impossible to visit the
estival during the daytime, arrangements have been made to keep all
xhibit areas open until 8s 00 in the evening.
Flying farmers are invited to land at the Illini Airport
iorth of Urbana, where special transportation will take them to the
'estival area.
Press headquarters for visiting newspaper, radio and tele-
vision editors will be established in the visual services building.
-30-
IRrcm
5/11/58
.
■
■
■
£ *»VS
Farm News
'ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
airymen Strive for High Production Per Cow
URBANA — Many advantages of large-scale dairying are lost
nless a relatively high level of production per cow is maintained, a
niversity of Illinois dairyman said today.
J. G. Cash points out that the number of cows milked and the
otal volume of milk produced can be misleading as measures of effici-
ncy of the dairy herd. He cites annual DHIA records of two herds of
he same breed as an example.
One herd of 22 cows averaged 13,520 pounds of milk and 500
ounds of butterfat last year and returned $9,391 above feed costs.
he other herd of 44 cows averaged 9,530 pounds of milk and 345 pounds
>f butterfat and returned $9,087 above feed cost.
The smaller herd returned $304 more above feed cost than the
arger herd.
-30-
AJtcm
A.l/58
.
. ■ :
■;■•■
" ■
•
i ■
-
■ '
-
.
•
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois 4-H Foundation Spends $24,000 in 1957
URBANA — 4-H Club work in Illinois was helped by almost $24,000
in funds from the Illinois 4-H Foundation in 1957.
This was the financial report presented at the annual meeting
of the Foundation Board of Directors last Friday (March 7) at the Uni-
versity of Illinois. The Foundation accepts contributions from private
sponsors of 4-H Club work, and in turn promotes training and recognition
programs at the state level.
Foundation Executive Secretary-Treasurer O. F. Gaebe, who is
also state leader of agricultural 4-H Clubs in Illinois, reported spon-
sor contributions of $32,519 last year. These funds went for the major
Foundation support areas of citizenship training, leader recognition
and member recognition.
During the noon luncheon, Sandra Rayburn, Champaign; Donald
Huftalin, Malta; David Winkelmann, Ashland? and Mrs. Mary Summers
Theilen, New Berlin, each reported to the board on their Foundation-
supported trips to national and international 4-H events.
Officers for 1958 include Dr. W. G. Kammlade, associate di-
rector of the Cooperative Extension Service at the University of Illi-
nois, renamed chairman; A. F. Stephens, St. Louis, vice-chairman; and
Gaebe, renamed executive secretary-treasurer.
Three new directors are Melvin James, St. Louis; Curt Eckert,
Belleville; and Mrs. Fred Francis, Wilmington. Re-elected directors
are E. D. Griffin, Chicago; C. N. McCauley, Mt. Vernon; C. A. Snavely,
Peoria; and Robert Anderson, Bloomington.
-30-
RAJrcm
3/11/58
■
■
-
r
• -
■
•
'
•
•
.
I
I
..'
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Implements on the Highway
URBANA — More than ever before, farm implements are competing
tilth cars and trucks for space on public highways.
This is one of the results of rapid mechanization on farms,
and it has brought with it added dangers, says 0. L. Hogsett, extension
safety specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
One- third of all tractor fatalities occur on public roads.
Many others happen on private lanes and drives. Mile for mile, it is
much safer to operate an automobile on public roads than to operate a
tractor there. If at all possible, plan your farm work so that you
are not driving slow-moving tractors and farm machinery in traffic.
The heavier the traffic, the greater the danger.
The rules of the road apply to farm tractors and implements
as well as to cars ai d trucks. Come to a full stop when entering the
highway, and do not proceed until it is clear. Then stay on your side
of the road, if you must take any of your farm machinery onto the road
at dusk or during darkness, be sure it is properly lighted. Not only
are the evening hours a period of heavy traffic, but they are also the
time when it is hardest for the motorist to see. In the daylight hours,
a red flag on a tall mast helps to draw attention of the motorist to
the hazards of slow-moving machinery.
The motorist should not be expected to assume the whole re-
sponsibility for safety on rural highways. Farmers must also share
in this responsibility.
-30-
0LH:cm
i3/ll/58
• ■
. . .
■
.
!
:
•
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Nut Growers Will Meet March 15
URBANA — Tours and discussion sessions are scheduled for the
annual meeting of the Illinois Nut Tree association starting at 9:30 a.m.
yiarch 15 at the Staley Company, Decatur*
Association President J. C. McDaniel, horticulturist at the
University of Illinois College of Agriculture, will open the meeting.
Yu J. Thomas, Staley Company will tell about experiments working toward
control of the walnut husk fly. This fly is a serious pest of both
English and native black walnuts.
Tours will include the staley corn products division, a live-
stock farm, and nut trees growing in the Decatur area. The last two
tours are optional following the meeting.
McDaniel says that the meeting is open to anyone who is in-
terested. No registration fee will be charged, and lunch will be
served in the Staley cafeteria.
-30-
PAC : cm
3/11/58
:
■
! •
■
.
.
■ :■ ■ . "
f :■: !: . V • • • :
.
;. -
. .. ;'"
A.tt£
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
SPECIAL PICTORIAL REPORT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
URBANA — BUILT LIKE A BALLON WITH A DOOR AT ONE END, this
rubberized nylon structure will house part of the "World of Plants"
exhibit at the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival, Thursday,
Friday and Saturday, March 27, 28 and 29. Festival visitors will see
more than 125 separate exhibits in six major exhibit areas. The total
exhibit trail will run more than half a mile through the balloon house,
tents and University buildings.
-30-
HDGtcm
3/11/58
-
■
- .
. -
.
Yom Extension Editorial office
lollege of Agriculture
jniversity of Illinois
jrbana, Illinois
jpecial to City Editors
SPECIAL PICTORIAL REPORT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jniversity Mums Bloom in Spring
URBANA — Having discovered how to grow chrysanthemums like
:his in its laboratories, the University of Illinois now is having
:rouble finding vases large enough to hold them. Seriously, this is
brick photography to emphasize that the College of Agriculture will
lave many of its chrysanthemum varieties on display at Farm and Home
festival in Urbana on March 27, 28 and 29. Getting mums to bloom in
torch is a good trick in itself, since they are normally fall-blooming
flowers. John R. Culbert, research floriculturist at the University,
tfho is holding this fancy mum, says that Festival guests will also see
new mum seedlings and the original wild ancestor flowers from which
present chrysanthemum varieties have come. Floriculture students will
also show how to make floral arrangements during the show.
-30-
RAJ: cm
3/11/58
"
'
.
■
•
6
... . ' ton s ■ ' " *
• ' " * "
A«W£
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS * COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
SPECIAL PICTORIAL REPORT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
URBANA — Farm and Home Festival visitors at the University of
Illinois, Urbana, on March 27, 28 and 29 will want to look over this
automatic swine-feeding setup at the swine farm. This layout includes
three different kinds of feed bins. From the bins, feed is automatic-
ally unloaded, blended, ground and delivered to the feeder. In addi-
tion to an automatic watering system, this setup also features a de-
vice that automatically cleans the feeding floor at regular intervals
with water under pressure. This experimental feeding system will also
be one of the feature displays at the swine farm to be seen at the
annual Illinois Swine Growers' Day on Wednesday, April 2.
-30-
RAJtcm
3/11/58
•
• ■
!
.
...
■ • r
'■'■■■ '■ »
■ ••••■-,
•- . •• • I -
•.-...■ ■ ■■• ■■ •
■ • ' ' " ' ''"
i • » ■ • ■ • ' ■
. • ■ -
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FCR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dwarf Fruit Trees Have Many Advantages
by F. W. Owen
Fruit Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
Dwarf fruit trees in the home garden have many advantages over standard-
sized trees. Yet they have only one or two disadvantages.
Most important advantage is that they take up less space, permitting
more trees of different varieties to be grown. The result is a continuous supply
of fresh fruit during the growing season.
Fruit on dwarf trees is also easier to pick. And the fruit is higher
in quality and larger in size than fruit from standard trees. Dwarf fruit trees
bear fruit within three or four years. Standard-sized trees take five to ten years,
Dwarf fruit trees are easier to spray and prune than standard trees,
since they do not require expensive orchard machinery. And dwarfs can be pruned
and trained as ornamentals in landscaping.
One disadvantage of dwarfs is that some rootstocks used for dwarfing are
susceptible to diseases. Some rootstock dwarfs are less firmly anchored in the
soil than standard trees. In fact, they may need permanent support with stakes or
wires .
Fruit trees can be dwarfed in two ways. One is to graft the tree to the
root of a small-growing variety. The second is to graft a piece of stem of a small-
growing fruit tree between the root and the top of the tree to be dwarfed,
Rootstocks vary in their dwarfing effects. To completely dwarf apple
trees, Mailing IX stock should be used. Clark Dwarf is also recommended, but it
can be obtained only from Stark Brothers Nursery, Louisiana, Missouri. Mailing
IX rootstocks are carried by most nurseries.
-more-
•
'
'•
•
.
•
.
,
.
'
-
Dwarf Fruit Trees - 2
The recommended rootstock for dwarfing peaches and plums is Prunus
tomentosa. The Mandarin type of peach is naturally dwarf, but it isn't often
grown in Illinois.
Dwarf rich and North Star are varieties of cherry trees (sour) that are
naturally dwarf. And r.ie Winkler Hazel is recommended as a natural dwarf among
hazelnut trees .
Home gardeners can usually obtain dwarf trees at local nurseries.
Dwarfs are identified by their variety and the rootstock on which they are growing.
In Illinois, dwarf fruit trees should be planted in early spring or late
fall. They prefer soil that is moderately open and well-drained- -not fine-
textured clay or soil so coarse that it does not retain moisture.
-30-
PAC : cam
3/12/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
terinarians seeking to Stop Miniature Beef steaks
URBANA — This is the age of miniatures — pocket radios, minia-
re golf courses and dwarf corn.
But University of Illinois veterinarians are putting their
iet down when it comes to miniature beef steaks.
Dwarf cattle are easy to recognize, but the seemingly normal
limals that carry this inherited characteristic are hard to identify.
ich work is being done to find a way to spot these carriers so that
iey can be culled from breeding herds.
Dr. H. J. Hardenbrook says that taking X-rays of calves be-
/een one and 10 days old is one of the best ways to spot carriers.
■rays show vertebral abnormalities characteristic of many animals that
irry dwarfism. X-rays of long bones and of certain head bones are
.so of value.
Examining the blood lines of breeding stock is another method.
r. Hardenbrook says the best approach is to buy from breeders who are
aking special efforts to produce dwarf- free stock.
A recent round-up of test results shows how effective X-ray
an be. The results also point to some of its limitations as a de-
letion method, of 186 known carriers at all the cooperating stations •
-rays showed that 167, or 90 percent, had abnormal vertebrae.
Of several thousand calves that were thought to be free of
w*rf genes (not carriers), 80 percent had completely normal vertebrae.
I -more-
•
.
.;
[
.
■
i • .. . '
■
:
•
.
. . • ••:- • • •
d Dwarfism - 2
ong the others, it has been impossible to distinguish between mild
normalities unrelated to dwarfism and some thought to be due to the
arf gene. Lengthy breeding tests are necessary to establish this
fference. Breeding tests must also be used as a further screen for
imals with seemingly normal vertebrae.
Insulin injection and pre- and post-treatment blood studies
ve been used with a reasonable degree of accuracy in several hundred
st animals, points out Dr. Hardenbrook. Studies of this type may
ad to better tests to help find dwarf carriers.
Meanwhile the search goes on for other methods that might
ove more certain and more practical. An instrument called a profilom-
.er, developed some years ago to find carriers among mature Hereford
ills, has not proved so accurate as was expected. It detected a slight
irehead bulge thought to mark normal- looking animals as dwarf carriers*
itward physical appearance is still being carefully studied, however,
>r characteristics that might identify the carrier.
-SO-
ft: cm
'12/58
.
•
■
3
.
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
san Howard Reviews . rogram In India
URBANA — Dean Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois
allege of Agriculture this week listed a "substantial increase in ag-
icultural production" as one of two basic needs for continued economic
rogress in India.
He said this increase in agricultural production should be
Dupled with the development of a healthy industry that can provide
cofitable employment for a greater share of the population that is now
spendent upon low-level agricultural production.
Dean Howard returned recently from an intensive six-week visit
o India, where he reviewed the progress of the University's cooperative
rogram with Indian agricultural institutions. His observations were
ontained in a special summary report to Frank W. Parker, chief agri-
ulturist for the United States Technical Cooperation Mission to India.
"The research and education project now under way, " Dean
oward said, "can do much to increase agricultural production without
ecessarily driving labor off the land until industry is ready to ab-
orb it. Moreover, the project can and should assist in promoting a
ore satisfying and happy life for the masses of cultivators and their
amilies."
Under the cooperative technical assistance program, the Uni-
ersity of Illinois administers special federal contract funds designed
o improve the agriculture in India through improved research and edu-
ction programs in the North Central states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya
-over-
"
■
■
•
-
...
-
j
-
E
■
d India - 2
adesh. Four other U. S. land-grant colleges and universities have
milar cooperative programs in India,
In his report, Dean Howard termed the program one that "un-
estionably promotes the interests of the United states."
"There seert.^ to be widespread evidence," he said, "that the
dians working with the program have confidence in it and in the com-
tence and sincerity of the Americans involved. The program also has
ch value in providing the opportunity for Indian citizens occupying
sitions of influence to become informed on American educational ob-
ctives and techniques and, perhaps more importantly, on the American
y of life."
While expressing complete satisfaction with the progress of
e project, Dean Howard made five suggestions for possible future im-
ovements:
1. The need for possible extension of the program for as
ich as 10 years.
2. More flexibility in the participant phases of the program
i order to shorten the required length of visit in this country of
irtain Indian administrative officials,
3. Increased emphasis on agricultural extension work, with
Loser integration with research programs.
4. Closer working ties between the National Extension serv-
:e and the extension workers in the agricultural colleges.
5. The stimulation of studies on agricultural policy in the
i<Han agricultural colleges.
-30-
itsl
'13/58
•
-
■ .
I
.
:
'
•
•
:
.
■
i
to. ^
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Id Irrigation Clinic on March 20
URBANA — Speakers at the second annual Irrigation Clinic at
e University of Illinois on Thursday, March 20, will discuss stand-
ds for buying pumps, pipes and sprinklers.
On the afternoon program, Keith Beauchamp, irrigation engi-
er of the engineering and watershed planning unit, Soil Conservation
rvice, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, will explain the minimum requirements
ir the design, installation and performance of sprinkler irrigation
[uipment.
These minimum requirements, along with the minimum standards
>r irrigation equipment, have been prepared jointly by the American
)ciety of Agricultural Engineers and the Sprinkler Irrigation Associa-
Lon. They are intended to help guarantee satisfactory performance of
tinkler irrigation equipment and to protect both dealers and customers.
Other subjects on the program include water rights, plant-
iil-water relationships, irrigation pumps and design of irrigation
sterns. A panel discussion by Illinois farmers who are using irri-
*tion will close the sessions.
-more-
■ .'. ..
• . . .
] ti J.' ■ ■ ■. .. ■ . •. " ! l&vn •:■•'.•■-•■.•■•*■. ■ " . : - •.■ :
' . .' ■•; •'•■.,......:■■..,• . ' ' •• . • ' :
. • ■ ;" • - • ' ' ,
"•• ' ■:. i •>..: .••■'•:••■:. ■ .• ' . :
.!' v ,,•'.••• -. . .■•• -. - . .
■ I '. : .':. : ••• ; :.■:.■•■ ■ ..:'•..
■•■•.•■•. •. .:.'•■.■ ■ ' • . ■ .
.. • ■.'■■ ■ . •
'■■■ " - • " •
■
.
■ •
■ :" " : • . ..-;■•.. O'i J •'
. .' • - • ■ ■ • -, _
• .. ' • '•■.■:
• " • Dili
■ - •
i
.
Id Irrigation Clinic - 2
Program sponsors include the departments of agricultural en-
neering, agronomy, agricultural economics and horticulture of the
iversity of Illinois, the state Water Survey and the state Geological
rvey, and the Soil Conservation Service and the Agricultural Research
rvice of the U. S. Department of Agriculture,
The program is intended for irrigation farmers, engineers,
alers and others interested in irrigation. Registration starts at
30 a.m., Room 135 Animal Sciences Laboratory, and will end at 4:00 p.nu
-30-
J:sl
13/58
■
r
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
tral Youth Day at University March 29
URBANA — Members of the Illinois Rural Youth organization have
imed Saturday, March 29, as Rural Youth Day at the Farm and Home Fes-
val at the Universe cy of Illinois,
Highlight of the day's program will be the semi-finals and
nals of the 1958 State Rural Youth basketball tournament. Two games
e scheduled for Saturday morning in Huff Gym, starting at 9:30
clock. Third-place game between the losers of the morning games will
art at 12:00 noon, and the championship game will follow at 1:30 p.m.
Another Festival feature will be an exhibit covering Rural
•uth activities as part of the "World of Services" in the Agricultural
igineering building. In charge of the exhibit is a committee composed
: Paul steiner, Buckley; Roger Hill and George Shaffer, Downs; Edgar
emer, Metropolis; Delila Nobbe, Vandalia; and Norman Sleight, Griggs-
.lle.
Later in the day, registration and a get-acquainted session
>r all Rural Youth members and their guests will be held in Room 314
.lini Union, startii j at 5:00 p.m. Plans are for members to eat as a
:oup in the Illini Union cafeteria at 5:30. An evening recreation and
itertainment program will begin at 7:00 p.m. in Room 314 with Edgar
:emer, Paul Steiner and Delila Nobbe in charge.
In addition to the planned evening program, Rural Youth mem-
-rs are especially invited to attend the University dance, the Plowboy
rom, in Huff Gym from 9:00 p.m. to midnight. Dress for the dance is
ilico and blue jeans. Cost is $2.50 per couple.
Rural Youth members are also invited to attend the other two
ays of the Festival on March 27 and 28.
-30-
&Jtsl
A3/58
•
•
.
■
i
.
.
' '
■
■
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
rurkey Growers Elect Bonnett President
URBANA — Gerald Bonnett, Havana producer, was elected presi-
lent for 1958 of the Illinois Turkey Growers association at its 25th
mnual meeting at the University of Illinois on Thursday, March 13.
Other officers elected include John Ammon, Winslow, vice-
resident; Sheldon Swann, Waterman, secretary-treasurer; and Howard
(auffman, Waterman, National Turkey Federation director.
Members of the Board of Directors elected on the 1958 slate
Include Hubert Brown, Caledonia; Don McMillen, Verona; Dan Yordy, Mor-
ion; Dan Sinn, Tremont; Vincent Walsh, Raymond; John Ash, Ashkum; John
Vnderson, Newark; Willis Clark, Mahomet; Harvey Wilson, Athens; Clarence
2eimer, Elmwood; and Coe Gaulrapp, Rock Falls, 1957 president, director
sx-officio.
Members also named five former presidents of the association
as honorary directors to serve on the board for 1958. They are Keith
-hidley, Palatine; Rudolph Flentje, Taylorville; Trevor Jones, Spring-
field; Harvey Wenzel, Garden Prairie; and shubel Burnett, Pana.
More than 75 Illinois turkey growers attended the all-day
session in the Animal Sciences Laboratory. They heard Trevor Jones,
immediate past president of the National Turkey Federation, tell about
the proposed turkey enabling act. Lloyd Geil, Chicago, general manager
of the Poultry and Egg National Board, told the guests about the PENB
Turkey Promotion program.
-more-
■
■
.
•
• -
■
■
■
•
(
■ •
•
'
'
•
• '
•
.
r
' . , .
:.
• '
'
•: '■
:
•■
,dd Turkey Growers - 2
Other guest speakers included David Hume, Washington, D.C.,
oultry division of the USDA; Peter Crafts, Grasmere, New Hampshire,
resident of the National Turkey Federation; Birdsell Keithley, Lan-
aster, California, and Walter Schwedler, Portland, Oregon, producers;
,nd L. H. Simerl, University of Illinois agricultural economist.
Featured on the evening banquet program was Howard Kauf fman,
ho showed slides and told about his recent trip to Russia,
-30-
AJcsl
/14/58
.
'
... • .
,v
■ •
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending March Ik, 1958.)
Larger Wheat Crop in Prospect; Corn Demand Continues Strong
URBANA--Present prices of new crop wheat aren't likely to last unless the
1958 loan rate is changed by legislation, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the Uni-
versity of Illinois grain marketing staff.
He points out that new crop wheat prices are being held up by tightness
in old crop wheat and by proposed farm legislation that would raise presently an-
nounced support rates. But the new wheat crop could be 300 million bushels larger
than last year's crop if spring weather is favorable. Present new crop prices for
future delivery are only slightly below the loan.
Hieronymus also reports that country marketings and primary corn receipts
have continued small, and demand for cash corn remains good. Prices are now above
the $1.10 loan rate, so only corn planted under allotments is apt to move into the
loan. Through February 15, farmers had placed 181 million bushels into loan com-
pared with 313 million bushels on the same date last year.
CCC corn sales remain at slightly over one million bushels a week. For
several years CCC has sold 200 million bushels in each crop year. But if CCC is
going to sell 200 million bushels this year, the weekly sales will need to average
over three million a week from now on.
Final figures show that farmers put 90 million bushels of 1957 soybeans
into loan. This should be enough to hold the price at the loan rate, Hieronymus
believes. But it also means that CCC will have large quantities to sell after the
take-over date June 1. CCC will sell at the loan rate plus 1 l/2 cents a month for
each month stored after that.
-more-
•
I
1
■
:
-
■
'
-2-
Soybean prices are being pulled two ways at the same time. Meal prices
have been strong, about $12 to $lk above January. Oil has been quite weak because
of reduced export volume. Soybean oil, cottonseed oil and lard exports have
totaled only hk6 million pounds since October 1, compared with 775 million in the
same period a year ago. Enough oil has been committed for sale under P.L. kQo to
sharply increase exports in the months ahead. However, the price of meal is now
so high that there is danger of losing some of the market.
-30-
HDGtsl
3/1^/58
I
' ■ ■ '
■
. • " • '•■'
.... . • '
■
. . • . •• • •
...
.. ..■•<■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
cm and Home Festival to Feature Antibiotics Laboratory
URBANA — A miniature laboratory showing the production and
Dlation of antibiotics will be featured among the displays and ex-
sits at the University of Illinois Farm and Home Festival next week,
rch 27-29.
David Gottlieb, in charge of antibiotic research at the Uni-
rsity of Illinois College of Agriculture, reports that 20 to 40 per-
nt of all soil organisms produce some antibiotics, but very few are
eful.
Almost everyone has heard of the scientific advancements of
e "wonder drugs," But probably few realize that antibiotics are
oduced by living molds growing in the soil, Gottlieb points out.
Many of these antibiotics are poisonous. Although about 300
ve been isolated, only a few have proved useful.
With the antibiotics, scientists have been able to make al-
'St unbelievable advancements in human medicine, animal nutrition and
ant disease control.
Chloromycetin, used successfully in treating typhoid and
Ttain other diseases, was discovered in soil samples found on the Uni-
srsity of Illinois farm in 1948. Research at the University is now
mcentrated on search for antifungal antibiotics that will effectively
•event plant diseases and also animal and human fungal infections. Re-
'•archers are also working to find out how antibiotics are made by the
ganism and how they are able to kill fungi.
This display will be part of the "World of Plants" exhibit east
the Stock Pavilion on the south campus in Urbana.
-30-
G:cm
18/58
■
.
'
.
.
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Townspeople Especially Invited to Farm Festival
URBANA — Farm and Home Festival displays and demonstrations
this year hvve been planned to interest townspeople and children as well
as farm families.
Festival Chairman W. N. Thompson issues a special invitation
to persons who do not live on farms to visit the Festival on March 27,
28 and 29. Many things on the program will be as important for city
and town people to see as for active farmers. Two examples are the
displays of how antibiotics are found and tested and how meats will be
tenderized and graded 50 years from now. Others include Illini chry-
santhemums, home remodeling plans and new construction, baked products
that freeze well and many others.
For the young people, a program has been developed for Satur-
day, March 29. Topics of especial interest to them feature College of
Agriculture staff members and students telling about requirements for
entering college, courses to take, costs and available scholarships.
Demand for college graduates is greater than ever before, Thompson
Points out. Every high school graduate should find out. all he or she
can about college.
All exhibits and displays will be open until 8:00 o'clock
Thursday and Friday evenings and until 9:00 p.m. Saturday for the con-
venience of students at the University of Illinois and townspeople who
mi9ht not be able to visit the College during working hours.
3/18/58
-30-
■
•
'
•
'
]
'
.. • ■
. . . : "■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
machinery Dealers Hear About Starter Fertilizer
URBANA — One unanswered question about starter fertilizer is
whether or not it can supply most of the nutrients for corn on soils
that are medium to low in fertility.
More than 150 Illinois farm machinery dealers and agricultural
engineers heard s. R. Aldrich, agronomist at the University of Illinois,
explain this and three other similar questions on Tuesday, March 18, in
Urbana. occasion was the fifth annual Farm Machinery Day program at
the stock Pavilion on the College of Agriculture campus.
The other unanswered questions about starter fertilizer are
whether or not starter can supply these nutrients on a competitive cost
basis with bulk fertilizers, whether starter fertilizers will give a
profitable response on highly fertile soils and how much starter can be
put on at planting time without causing fertilizer injury to the plants.
Experimental work so far shows that the best place for band
fertilizer at planting time is below and to the side of the seed, Aldrich
told the audience. High concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus salts
placed too close to the seeds and sprouts cause most fertilizer damage.
Recommended rates are 60 pounds of starter banded per acre on corn and
40 pounds for wheat, the agronomist said.
E. c. Spurrier, extension agronomist at the University of
Illinois, told Machinery Day visitors that grasses, especially giant
foxtail, are becoming an increasing problem to corn and soybean growers
-more-
s .•
r
, J
■ • •
:
■
-
s v. ,
'
hsrfd :•• • o; tow J
■
••...■
-
d Machinery Day - 2
Illinois. Cultivation is not the sole answer, because grass in the
ws that cultivation does not kill provides most competition for the
owing grains.
Pre-emergence sprays have proved most effective in research
rk to date, Spurrier said. Corn yields on plots at the Urbana Experi-
nt Station last year varied from 74.3 bushels an acre where giant
xtail was allowed to grow unrestrained up to 100 bushels an acre where
e foxtail was hand-weeded completely from the rows.
Results on soybeans were even more spectacular, the agronomist
anted out. Soybean yields varied from 26 bushels an acre with a field
and of foxtail to 43.1 bushels an acre on the hand-weeded check plots
th no foxtail.
Key to pre-emergence spraying is selectivity of the chemicals
ied for different plants. New chemicals in use and being developed
low much promise, Spurrier said. Recommendations now are to spray a
!- to 13- inch band over the row behind the planter to get the best and
)st economical results.
Another feature of the day's program was a panel discussion
: factors relating to capital available for buying farm machinery. The
Lsitors also heard the pros and cons of corn drying.
-30-
W:cm
0.8/58
•■ "
. . ■
• I
■
■
.
•
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
:ompare Pasture vs. Drylot for Swine
URBANA — Illinois Swine Day visitors at the University of 11-
inois on Wednesday, April 2, will hear a report of three years of re-
earch work comparing pasture with drylot for producing market hogs.
S. W. Terrill, head of the swine division at the College of
igriculture, will report on comparison of the feed-saving value of
iasture with returns from the same amount of land planted in such high-
>rofit crops as corn or soybeans.
Other research topics will compare complete with free-choice
:ations for swine and crossbreeding for commercial hog production.
:his latter topic covers research at Iowa state College and will be
reported by L, N. Hazel of the animal husbandry staff there.
Contract farming and the hog business will be the subject of
i panel discussion during the afternoon session. Earl Crouse, vice-
president of Doane Agricultural Service, St. Louis, will take an over-
ill look at vertical integration.
George Brauer, oakford farmer, will look at. contract farming
from a hog producer's viewpoint, Frank Hunter, Jr., president of Hunter
Packing Co., East St. Louis, will present the meat packer's view, while
J. L, Krider, vice-president of Central Soya Co., Inc., Ft. Wayne, Indiana,
*ill present the feed industry view.
Associate Director T. S. Hamilton of the Agricultural Experi-
ment Station will moderate the panel and will summarize the discussion
after a question-and-answer period between the audience and the panel.
Swine Day sessions start with informal inspection of the swine
-arm and experimental work in progress at 8s 00 a.m. Formal program
sessions start at 10; 30 a.m. in the University Auditorium.
-30-
&J:cm
,1/18/58
• 0
■
- .-
-
■
•
■ ■ ■ ■ '
•
'
•
. . ■ ■'-'■'•
• ■ •
,
: ■ : ■ ■■■
■
■ ■■■■.
■
■
■
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
;at Lamps Need Protection
URBANA — Safe, properly designed fixtures plus good installa-
Lon will pay off if you're planning to use infra-red heat lamps for
Lg brooding this spring.
Here is what you should look for in a heat lamp fixture, says
, L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the University of Illi-
:is College of Agricultures
1. The lamp should be protected by a canopy or shield with
bail.
2. The fixture should hang from a separate chain or wire,
ith no strain on the electrical cord.
3. It should have a switchless porcelain receptacle.
4. The cord should be resistant to moisture and high temper-
tures (asbestos insulated cord with rubber or neoprene covering is
atisfactory) .
Place outlets so that no lamp cord will have to be longer
han six feet. Use No. 12 wire or larger to service the outlets. Pro-
ect the circuit with 20-ampere fuses, and use no more than seven 250-
att lamps on a circuit. Never hang the lamp so that its face is less
han 13 inches from the bedding. Also, be sure the lamp clears the
tanding animal by at least six inches.
-30-
jH:cit\
'18/58
.
•
•
' '
•
'
A*K
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dtal of 88 Entries in Junior Chicken Contest
URBANA — Entries in the 9th annual Illinois Junior Chicken-of-
omorrow contest closed last week with a total of 88 from 24 counties.
Clarence Ems, superintendent of the poultry division, state
epartment of Agriculture, Springfield, who is chairman of the contest
ommittee, said the northern section had 42 entries from 12 counties,
entral section had 44 entries from 10 counties, and southern section
wo entries from two counties.
Contestants will deliver 10 live cockerels to Armour Cream-
Ties, Lincoln, on May 21 for judging. The best eight, of the cockerels
'ill be considered for final placings. Judges will be Vern Almquist,
armour Creameries, Chicago, and S. F. Ridlen, extension poultry spe-
cialist, University of Illinois, Urbana.
-30-
•AJ: cm
718/58
-
. ■
.
.-
\
Iditor's note: This is the second in a series of three stories on
iod prices and the cost of living.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
trmers Don't Get All the Money From Rising Food Prices
URBANA — Just because retail food prices rose 3.7 percent
tring 1957 doesn't mean that farmers received all the extra money con-
imers had to pay.
R. J. Mutti, University of Illinois agricultural economist,
sports that farmers received about 3.8 percent more money for identical
)od products sold in the last, quarter of 1957 than in the same period
: 1956. Costs of marketing farm products averaged 2.7 percent higher
: the end of 1957 than a year earlier.
Farmers received about 40.1 cents out of every consumer's food
Dllar at the beginning of 1958 compared with 39.9 cents a year before.
rom 1947 to 1949, farmers received almost 50 cents of the consumer's
Dod dollar. This decrease in the share they get now has occurred in
LI major groups of food.
Among the 43 items listed by the U. S. Department of Agricul-
ure in its market basket of foods, only farmers selling grapefruit re-
eived as high a share of the consumer's dollar as they did during 1947-
9. The farmer's share was the same for eggs, oranges, canned peaches
ftd canned peas.
The Department of Agriculture recently reported that operating
j
^sts of food-marketing firms continued upward last year. Hourly earn-
igs of employees rose 5 percent. Further increases are in prospect.
-more-
.
.
•
■
•
id Food Costs - 2
More valid comparisons are possible if price changes are ob-
=rved over a period of several years. The Bureau of Labor statistics
ses the base period of 1947-49. From this period through December
557, prices paid for medical care advanced 41 percent. Transportation
jmped 39 percent. Housing, personal care and other goods and services
ach went up 27 percent. These items rose more than the average of 22
srcent for all items.
During the same period, clothing and apparel rose only 8 per-
£nt, reading and recreation went up 15 percent and food prices advanced
6 percent.
Medical care includes more than doctors' fees, Mutti explains,
t also includes charges by dentists, optometrists and hospitals, along
ith hospital insurance, drugs and prescriptions.
Transportation expenses include new and used automobiles,
uto repairs, gasoline, oil, insurance, local public transportation
nd railroad coach fares.
Housing costs include rents and home owners' expenses, in-
luding mortgage interest, utilities, fuel, and home furnishings, equip-
ment and supplies. Personal care figures cover all beauty shop and
>arber services and toilet goods.
Actually the Consumer Price Index is not an absolute measure
»f living costs. It measures only changes in prices of goods and
jervices of similar quality. Living costs are determined by the amount
eople buy and the quality of the items they buy as well as by the
rice they have to pay, Mutti concludes.
-30-
DGtcm
'18/58
1
■
•'■
•
•
-
■
Editor's notet This is the first in a series of three stories on
food prices and the cost of living.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
pod Prices Only Part of Rising Living Costs
URBANA — A University of Illinois agricultural economist
ointed out today that rising living costs are not due to food prices
lone.
R. J. Mutti explains that the Consumer Price Index prepared
y the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics classifies 300 different goods
nd services used by city families into eight broad groups. Average
rices of four of these groups — transportation, medical care, reading
nd recreation and personal care — advanced between 4.3 and 4.8 percent
uring 1957.
In contrast, food prices rose 3.7 percent. Housing, which in-
ludes shelter and home furnishings, and "other" goods and services,
ainly tobacco and liquor, moved up 2.8 percent. Clothing and apparel
rices rose only .6 percent. The increase for all items during 1957
iveraged 3.0 percent.
The four groups with the greatest price rises make up about
>ne- fourth of the spending of city families with incomes under $10,000.
'ood accounts for about 30 percent and shelter and home furnishings for
ibout 32 percent in the city consumer's budget.
However, Mutti warns that comparing price changes within a
Jingle year or measuring from one single date to another may be mis-
-eading. Prices may have changed only in one group and not in other
ifroups. Also, the supply of certain items may be abnormal at any cer-
•ain time,
-more-
■;
.
■'
■
'
-
id Rising Food Prices - 2
Railroads raised their freight rates and are now seeking
irther increases from the Interstate Commerce Commission, Food-
irketing firms made about the same profits in 1957 as in the year be-
)re. Profits of food-manufacturing firms were smaller, while profits
: retail food chains were higher.
Mutti emphasizes that Illinois farmers who sell hogs, cattle
id eggs are benefiting from prices higher than those of a year ago.
it Illinois dairymen averaged about the same price for milk as a year
jo in February. And farmers who sold corn, wheat, soybeans or oats all
2ceived lower prices.
-30-
DG:Cm
/18/58
•
'
'
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
7 Alumni Association Plans Annual Meeting
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture
Lumni Association will hold its annual meeting on Saturday, March 29,
b 4r00 p.m. in the new home economics building cafeteria on the campus.
Joe Ashbrook, president, Rossville, reports that this meeting
111 cover reports from the officers and membership chairman, election
£ officers and other business.
Anyone who has attended the College of Agriculture at any
ime, whether a member of the alumni association or not, is invited to
lis meeting, Ashbrook points out.
This meeting, scheduled on the last day of the Farm and Home
estival, gives those attending a chance to see the festival earlier in
tie day. The annual Plowboy Prom, sponsored by College of Agriculture
tudents, will be held on Saturday evening. All alumni association
embers and guests are invited to attend.
-30-
DG:cm
/18/58
■
•
.
i
■
• ■
Editor's note: This is the third in a series of three stories on
iood prices and the cost of living.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
'armer's Share of Consumer's Food Dollar Varies Widely
UR3ANA — For every dollar a consumer spends for food today,
he American farmer gets about 40 cents on the average. The other 60
:ents goes to those who assemble, process, transport, package and dis-
:ribute the food products from the farms to the grocery shelf.
R. J. Mutti, University of Illinois agricultural economist,
joints out that the farmer's share is not the same on all food products.
For example, out of every dollar a consumer spends for eggs,
:he nation's farmers get about 72 cents. Marketing costs less for eggs
:han for other products because processing and packaging costs are
relatively small. Transportation costs are also not so large as for
Dther major farm products because a higher proportion of eggs are
produced near consuming centers.
When a consumer buys a dollar's worth of choice beef, the
cattleman gets about 63 cents. The other 37 cents pays those who handle
the livestock before it reaches the slaughtering plant, the railroads
and trucks that move the meat to different cities and stores and the
others who handle and prepare the meat in the form the consumer buys,
rhe centers of surplus cattle numbers are also some distance from most
ftajor consuming areas.
For every dollar spent for milk, the nation's farmers get
ibout 46 cents. The other 54 cents pays for assembly from farms, bot-
ling, pasteurizing, delivery, of f ice and collection costs.
-more-
:
~
•
.
Id Food Dollar - 2
But the foods in which marketing costs run highest and farmers
ceive the lowest share of the consumer's dollar are bread, corn flakes
,d canned fruits and vegetables. The nature of grain products changes
ring processing. Packaging is high in relation to the raw material
tlue of cereals and canned goods. Transportation costs from processing
.ants to consuming centers are among the highest for any food product,
inned fruits and vegetables must be stored in order to be available
iroughout the year, so large costs are required for warehousing.
When a consumer buys any food item, he is buying more than
le raw product the farmer sells. He is buying services for handling,
ransportation, processing and packaging, and the convenience of being
)le to buy when and where he wants it.
When consumers have more income, they seem to prefer to use
greater share of it for additional services or conveniences than for
greater quantity of food. That is one reason farmers receive a smaller
iare of the consumer's dollar when farm products are abundant, Mutti
sncludes.
-30-
DG:cm
/18/58
.
•
■
.
.
.
'■
-
•
•
••
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
ve New Lawns a Proper Start
by H. R. Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
Giving new lawns a proper start will prevent many future problems. In
tablishing new lawns, it is important to seed at the proper time, to sow seed that
adapted to present conditions and to prepare the seedbed properly.
Although September is the best time to start a new lawn, you can also
tablish one in the spring if necessary. Procedure is the same for spring planting
for fall.
The variety of seed to sow depends largely on conditions under which it will
grown. For example, a grass that does well in a moist, heavy soil may not survive
. a dry, sandy soil. Various grasses suitable for Illinois lawns include Kentucky
.uegrass, white clover, fescue, bent grass, redtop and rye grasses and creeping and
ilvet bents. A mixture of several grasses makes the best lawn though. It will provide
satisfactory turf throughout the entire growing season.
It may be necessary to grade the lawn area to set off the house to best
Ivantage. The ground should slope away from the house. The finished grade should
i-e in naturally with the grade of surrounding lawns or fields. Topsoil should be
aved to respread on the surface after grading.
Although some grasses will grow on poor soil, a fertile soil is necessary
x a truly vigorous, weed-free lawn. Even a naturally productive soil needs to have
;s store of plant foods replenished occasionally. Nitrogen is the plant food that
!,&ss needs most, because it stimulates rapid growth and makes the leaves a dark green.
Losphorus promotes root growth, and potassium helps to increase vigor, hardiness and
sease resistance of grass.
-more-
•
'
■'•
••
•
.
• - •
.
,
-2-
Preparing the seedbed is perhaps the most important step in establishing
new lawn. Here are the steps that should be followed;
1. Apply organic matter, fertilizer (10 pounds of a 10-8-6 analysis) and
jne after final grading. Organic matter, such as peat, manure or sewage sludge,
lproves the structure of soils. It makes clay soils less compact, increasing their
iter-holding and absorption capacities. It also increases water-holding capacity of
indy soils. Apply 500 to 1,000 pounds of manure per 1,000 square feet, or spread
f2 inch of peat or one inch of sludge over the soil surface.
2. Plow or rotofill soil to a six- inch depth. Do not work the soil when
: is wet.
3. Apply grub-proofing materials. Use l/k pound of actual chlordane per
,000 square feet, or 10 pounds of lead arsenate. Grubs cause lawn failures by
iting the roots of grasses.
k. Disk the soil six inches deep.
5. Rake or disk starter fertilizer into the upper two inches of soil,
pply 10 more pounds of 10-8-6 or a fertilizer of similar analysis to each 1,000
quare feet of lawn.
6. Rake. And immediately before seeding, break all clumps of soil or
emove them from the seedbed. Also, smooth the soil.
7» Seed. The type and amount of seed to sow will depend on soil conditions,
xposure of the area to sun and shade and the desired lawn texture. It*s easiest
o get complete coverage and uniform distribution of seed with a mechanical seed
preader. If, however, you sow by hand, divide the area into four sections with
tring. Then divide the seed into eight equal parts. Sow two parts to each section.
te part should be sown in an east-west direction and the other in a north-south
Section. Do not sow on a windy day.
8. Rake lightly to cover the seed.
•
-
-3-
9. Roll. Rolling firms the seed into the soil and stabilizes the seedbed
5 that it can "be mowed without leaving tracks. A heavy roller is not necessary.
10. Mulch slopes. Burlap or straw will keep soil from washing.
11. Water lightly. Be careful when watering a new lawn seeding. Use a
Lne spray; otherwise the seed will wash into low pockets and an uneven stand will
jvelop. Twice a day is not too often to water a newly seeded lawn. Only one or two
iches of soil need to be soaked, because the seed is near the surface. After the
>ed germinates, increase the amount of water, but decrease the frequency of watering,
jntinue watering, if necessary, until the grass has been mowed at least twice.
-30-
HCtcm
/18/58
.
■
■ -' .
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
llinois Farmers Have Much to Learn About Irrigation
URBANA — Irrigation calls for learning a new type of farming.
That's what more than 100 Illinois farmers and irrigation
uthorities and equipment dealers heard from a panel of irrigation users
t the second annual Irrigation Clinic today (Thursday) at the Univer-
ity of Illinois.
Panel members also pointed out that irrigation did not solve
11 of their production problems* A successful irrigation system must
e part of a complete farm plan that is based on land capabilitites as
ell as on the amount of capital and managerial ability the farmer has,
he panel members pointed out.
On the panel were Leo Pfeiffer, Forest City? Don Doll,
ocahontas? and Joe and Raymond Morley, Quincy, all of whom have used
rrigation on their farms in the past two years, V. W. Davis, USDA
igricultural economist on the staff at the University of Illinois, was
>anel moderator.
Needs for irrigation include (1) a good supply of water,
[2) plenty of money for equipment, (3) a strong back and (4) experi-
ence, the panel suggested. These are some of the most important of the
iany factors that go into a successful irrigation system.
Farmers who produce hybrid corn, soybeans or other crops for
eed may be able to make irrigation pay, the panel pointed out. Such
pecialty crops as strawberries, flowers and vegetables may also make
-more-
•
.
■
.
.
• •
*
.
'
■"
•
.
•
.
.
.
•
Vdd Irrigation Clinic - 2
Irrigation pay. One strawberry producer reports that irrigation has
^een his most valuable crop insurance and a practical way to apply
fertilizer.
In another part of the day's program held in the Animal
Sciences Laboratory, D. B. Peters, USDA agronomist at the University,
pointed out plant-soil-water relationships to the guests.
Present research data and farm experience to date indicate
that corn and soybean irrigation will not pay for itself on most Illi-
nois soils under normal rainfall conditions. However, corn and soy-
beans have produced profitably higher yields under irrigation on some
of the sandy soils of the state, Peters said.
Other topics discussed were the Illinois water laws, types and
operation of irrigation pumps, design of equipment for maximum effici-
ency and ASAE-SIA standards for irrigation systems.
-30-
RAJrcm
3/19/58
:
'
■
.
.
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
April 2
April 2-3
April 10
April 12
April 15-16
April 19
April 19
April 23
April 2k
April 2k
April 25
April 25 or
26 ~
April 28
May 3
May 12-16
May 17-18
May 22-23
AGRICULTURAL EVENTS CALENDAR FOR ILLINOIS
Illinois Swine Growers Day, University of Illinois, Urbana. 8-10 a.m.,
Tour of Svine Farm. 10:30 a.m., University Auditorium.
Grain Dealers Conference, University of Illinois, Urbana. Registration
at 9 a.m. April 2, 3l4 Illini Union.
Sale of Production-Tested Hereford Bulls, Dixon Springs Experiment
Station, 1 p.m.
Home Economics Hospitality Day, University of Illinois, Urbana.
9 a.m., Bevier Hall.
Illinois Bankers Agricultural Conference, University of Illinois,
Urbana. New Law Building Auditorium, 9 a.m.
Illinois Home Economics Association Meeting, University of Illinois,
Urbana. 9 a.m. , Bevier Hall.
Agriculture Student Guest Day, University of Illinois, Urbana.
Registration between 8:30 and 9:15 a.m. at the Stock Pavilion.
Macon County Home Vegetable Garden Meeting. Farm Bureau Building,
afternoon.
Crawford County Home Vegetable Garden Meeting, Farm Bureau Building,
afternoon.
Benton Area Feeder Pig Sale. Benton Fairgrounds.
Robbs Area Feeder Pig Sale. Egyptian Livestock Association Yards.
State-Wide County Competitive Examination for Tuition Scholarships
to the University of Illinois, (check with county superintendent for
date in your county. )
Winnebago County, k-E Leaders1 Meeting in Gardening.
Land 0f Lincoln Junior Livestock Judging Contest. Springfield State
Fairgrounds.
Leisurecraft and Counseling Conference. ^-H Memorial Camp.
Illinois Square Dance Callers' Association. 4-H Memorial Camp.
Conference of Production Credit Association Fieldmen. 10 a.m.,
Urbana-Lincoln Hotel, Urbana, Illinois.
-30-
?AC:cm
3/20/58
RSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
ncrease Value of Fertilizer by Putting It On Pasture
DIXON SPRINGS — Put fertilizer on corn land while it is still
n pasture, and reap two harvests from the fertility investment.
Tests at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment
tation during the past two years showed money was wasted in plowing-
iown fertilizer on corn land that already had a high fertility level.
'his land had been in pasture for nine years. Nitrogen, phosphorus,
>otash and limestone had been applied according to test for seven years,
L. E. Gard, soils researcher at the Station, reports that
>lowing-down $44 worth of fertilizer per acre on this land increased
:orn. yields only 4 bushels — from 37 to 91 bushels an acre. Yields were
ilready high on the Station soil, which is Grantsburg silt loam, a
shallow, rolling soil.
On these same plots another $39 worth of plow-down fertiliza-
tion increased second-year corn yields 17 bushels — from 78 to 95 bushels
in acre, Gard reports. During the 1956 and 1957 growing seasons, rain-
all was 1 1/2 inches less than the long-time average.
-more-
'
• " ■ '
•
• ■
-
'.
' : ' ..
• i
-•■■'
. •• ' • • •■
■
3
■ ■';
■ ;
' •
cos ■ ■
.
•
:
.
:
'•
•
.
dd Fertilizer Value - 2
Under normal rainfall conditions, plow-down fertilization did
ot increase yields enough to pay for more than half of the added cost.
ut the good pasture fertilization system paid off in both higher pas-
ure yields of forage and high corn yields when moisture was not the
imiting factor.
-30-
AJ:cm
/21/58
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending March 21, 1958. )
Farmers' Planting Plans Have Little Effect on Grain Market
URBANA- -Reports of farmers' 1958 planting intentions had very little effect
on grain markets this past week, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff.
Trading in March wheat futures contracts ended on the -weak side. This
raised doubts that any shortage of free wheat supplies would develop. High prices
for old wheat have probably given some strength to new wheat.
March corn futures contracts closed out strong compared with the May con-
tracts. This shows the current short market supply. But primary receipts of corn,
particularly from the northwest, are increasing. It appears that CCC is also be-
ginning to sell corn more freely.
So the same two questions still plague the corn market: How much will CCC
sell, and how much wet corn is still on farms to be moved? Now that spring is arriv-
ing, we should find out before long, Hieronymus points out.
If farmers carry out their March 1 intentions, they will plant about one
million more acres of corn than last year. But total feed grain acreage will be
less. Planting plans for oats are down about 3*5 million acres, barley about .5
million, and grain sorghums about 3«5 million. So the net drop in feed grain acre-
ages is about 6.1 million acres, or k percent of the total.
Grain sorghum acreage is down because less winter wheat is being abandoned
:his year. Oat acreage has been declining somewhat each year. Continued planting
elay could further reduce acreage.
-more-
I
■
■
■
•
,
.
■
-
'
.
•
••
■
'
.
■
.
.
-
-2-
Farmers indicated that they would plant 2k million acres of soybeans com-
pared with 21.8 million last year. But this does not necessarily mean much larger
production, since average yields last year were unusually high. Indicated produc-
tion, based on average yields, is therefore not far out of line with market needs,
Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HDG:dm
3-21-58
•
■ ■ ■
• ' - ■■
■
A*V£
Farm News
ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
ADVANCE PACKET OF FARM AND HOME FESTIVAL RELEASES
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
Understanding Is Key to Sound Soil Management, Farmers Told
URBANA — Illinois farmers are fortunate that their farms lie
near the center of the world's largest area of excellent soils, with a
favorable climate for high yields.
That's what University of Illinois soils specialist s. R.
Aldrich told farmers attending a session of the Farm and Home Festival
here today (Thursday) . But he also stressed the point that, to soundly
manage their soils, farmers must understand them.
He pointed out that Illinois soils originated from wind-blown
silts, glacial deposits and deposits from floods in the river bottoms.
The best soils developed under native grass cover that produced a deep
layer of organic matter, on areas covered by forests, only a shallow
layer of organic matter developed.
This depth of organic matter and the nature of the subsoil
iave an important influence in determining how to control erosion, how
effective tile drains will be, what amount of water the soil will hold
ind how much of the plant nutrients it contains.
Understanding these natural features of their soils will en-
&le farmers to profit from the strong points and overcome the problems,
Aldrich concluded.
-30-
■DG:cm
I /*\A It- r
. *
i '.
. . s • ..;.:..
' ■
...
■:.,:■:■■.■■- - :
..-.•/- ■ >■
> '
:■ -
. ■. ;•; ... on '■ • '
| • :. ' ' .• ■
I •' : ' "''
/ ■ @ • " ' '
■
•• -
I
! ■,, ■
. ■ .
■ . ' ' . '
... , . .
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
precast New Methods of Plart Disease Control
URBANA — Besides being useful in fighting human diseases, anti-
iotics are also proving of great value in fighting plant diseases, a
diversity of Illinois plant pathologist told Farm and Home Festival
isitors here today (Thursday) •
M. B. Linn reported that the antibiotic Vancomycin and
thers are readily absorbed by plants and move up and down from the
ewly formed leaves to the roots. They are also absorbed by the seed
nd move from there into the young seedling.
Linn also told Festival visitors that in the future we may
ave a number of systemic chemicals that will need to be sprayed on
oung plants only once or twice to protect them against diseases
hroughout the season*
Pathologists at the State Natural History Survey have found
everal materials that are effective against Dutch elm disease and oak
lit fungi in the laboratory, he reported. But these chemicals have not
iven satisfactory control yet when injected into trees.
Since these chemicals are usually effective against only a
imited number of diseases, Linn predicted a large number of plant
Uease control chemicals.
In the future it may be possible to mix systemic chemicals in
ligation water to control diseases. This method would benefit growers
most crops and could be used especially to control turf grass and
getable diseases.
-more-
■ '.'..'
.
... , , \ ■ .. .
- ' . rf:tj .'..•' . ' .• " ." . •
■'■..••■".':,■ ' ...
...■'.'. '
■■■■,: . ■. . ■ ■: : $&$:) '.
• . -. ■ . • '. i ■-.,>" ..•'•'
. ' :■ ■■ .•:. • ■•..;.; '■ • . ' • .' ' ' ■
'■''-'
■...■.'■:.'.'.'•' ' . .- •■ .' -
ni\ - 1 1 • '
• .- • fu8 • ■ -. ' ic ■-•.■•.
Co* . ■ "
• . • .• '. - ■ ■ ■..■'.-" '.'■'.
• eJ ' " • • ■
.... . . .
. . . - ■ . ' . : -
Add Plant Disease - 2
Linn stressed the point that those who buy and sell plant
disease control chemicals should be sure to read the package labels.
Since chemicals have many different trade names, it is necessary to look
for the common names listed on the package under "active ingredients,"
Linn emphasized.
-30-
HDG:cm
3/24/58
■
.
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27 , 1958
i'arm and Home Festival Advance
jittle Difference Between Solid and Liquid
fertilizer, Festival Visitors Told
URBANA — Solid and liquid mixed fertilizers have shown about
:he same results in tests at midwest agricultural experiment stations,
>. R. Aldrich, extension specialist told visitors at the Farm and Home
festival here today (Thursday) . Both types may be effectively used by
[llinois farmers,
Aldrich suggested that farmers decide between the two types
Df fertilizer by comparing cost per pound of plant food and handling
advantages. Liquid mixed fertizers are produced in different ways, but
nost solutions are similar. The total plant food content is usually
not higher than 30 percent.
Farmers were told that the materials used in liquid and dry
fertilizers are generally similar and sometimes identical except for
phosphorus.
When liquid fertilizers are subjected to low temperatures,
there is danger that some of the plant food will salt out. So mixtures
tfith the same analysis to be used during the winter are usually made a
Uttle differently from those used during warm weather.
Liquid fertilizers are neutral in reaction, but the materials
ire still corrosive. Liquid fertilizer manufacturers can suggest
suitable equipment to handle their products.
-more-
•
■
■
•
.
.
■
.
..
-.
■ .
■
'
■
. -
■
dd Fertilizers - 2
Aldrich explained that all liquid mixes carry some nitrogen,
ecause anhydrous ammonia is necessary in order to neutralize the phos-
horic acid. Dry mixes can be produced to carry no nitrogen.
Farmers were told that liquid fertilizer can be applied in the
ow or sprayed on the soil surface. For row applications the same
recautions should be taken as for dry fertilizers to avoid seed-
ertilizer contact. Farmers were warned that the materials will usually
ill plant leaves. So liquid fertilizers should be applied before the
rop is seeded or in a way to avoid leaf contact, the agronomist warned.
-30-
DG:cm
/24/58
J
■
■ -
■
!
'
•
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27 , 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
iidge Merits of Integration by Well-Being of American People
URBANA — Integration offers a new frontier for farm leaders to
cganize their resources on a business basis for the well-being of
nerican farmers,
E. E. Broadbent, University of Illinois agricultural econo-
ist, expressed this view today (Thursday) before a Farm and Home Festi-
al audience in the Animal Sciences Laboratory.
Today's emphasis on integration in farming is simply a con-
inuation of the agricultural revolution that started more than 100
ears ago, Broadbent stated. Modern integration started with crop ro-
ations. This called for reorganizing farm enterprises to bring about
op production from available land resources.
Farmers1 well-being and progress depend partly upon develop-
ing a positive attitude toward integration, the economist emphasized,
he merits of integration in farming should be judged by whether it will
mprove the well-being of 170 million Americans.
Broadbent told his audience that those favoring modern inte-
[ration recognize that definite efficiencies can be achieved in produc-
ion, processing and marketing of livestock by cutting out some of the
teps between farmer and consumer.
These people would combine one or all of the steps under one
anagement and attempt to produce meat for consumers at the lowest possi-
le cost. They would rely on small margins from volume sales as an in-
eritive for further expanding the livestock industry.
-more-
;••
•
■
•
■
■
.
-
-
•
3d Integration - 2
The agricultural economist pointed out that some opponents of
itegration recognize a definite threat to their existence. If inte-
ration programs are widely adopted, the result could mean eventual
Limination of many small, high-cost feed businesses, country livestock
jalers and even many of the terminal livestock marketing agencies.
Lnce anti- trust laws prevent major packers from going too far into
itegration, they will oppose it.
-30-
X3:cm
'24/58
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
any Farmers Making Switch to Corn Drying
URBANA — Corn drying is practical and profitable for Illinois
armers •
F. W. Andrew, V. W. Davis and D. G. Jedele, all staff members
t the university of Illinois College of Agriculture, today (Thursday)
Did a Farm and Home Festival audience that corn drying is out of the
nergency operation class now.
It is part of a new way of farming that includes new harvest-
rig equipment, artificial drying, low-cost storage and feedlot auto-
ation, they said.
A change from conventional harvesting of ear corn and crib
torage to field shelling, drying and storing of shelled corn is not
cure-all for corn-handling problems, Davis told the audience in the
eterinary Medicine auditorium. But present equipment for the job is
fficient and economical if operated correctly.
Developments in field-shelling machinery have been rapid since
955, according to Davis, USDA farm economist at the University. The
rend has been toward self-propelled and dual-purpose machines, money-
aving attachments, conversion units and new designs that cut down
ield losses of corn. Last fall's models emphasized greater harvesting
apacity, flexibility for harvesting both ear and shelled corn, reduc-
ion of field losses, compactness and flexibility.
-more-
L
■
I
• • ■ ■
■
.
, • '
: ■
■
dd Corn Drying - 2
Designs of drying equipment have also changed recently, al-
hough not so fast as those of field-shelling machinery, Davis pointed
ut. Some of the newer features of heated-air drying equipment are
ecirculation of grain while drying, compartmental drying, heat con-
rols and faster drying rates resulting from larger fans and burners.
Even so, he stated, design changes in drying equipment have
ot kept pace with developments in field- shelling machinery.
Providing adequate storage is a big problem for farmers who
ant to start fie Id- shelling operations, according to Andrew and Jedele,
oth extension agricultural engineers, who discussed drying equipment
nd storage structures. When providing new storage space, the farmer
ay either build shelled corn bins at once or build a new ear corn crib
ith the intention of converting it to shelled corn storage later.
The engineers pointed out the importance of planning a complete
rain-handling system to fit each farmer's own needs. For example,
eated-air batch driers may be the equipment needed on some farms,
ther farmers may make better use of bins with built-in driers using
ither heated or unheated air.
Choice may depend upon whether the farmer wants to feed the
:orn or sell it, Andrew and Jedele said. If he dries the corn for
iale, he should be careful to dry to low enough temperatures to prevent
lamage to the corn.
Shelled corn for feeding may be stored at high moisture con-
ent in air-tight silos. Some farmers are also storing wet corn with
pparent success in conventional silos by sealing off the air with
lastic or other covers.
-more-
.
.
,
■
'
... . .
i
■
■
■
Vdd Corn Drying - 3
Research is now going on at the University of Illinois to
Eind maximum and minimum moisture contents under which wet corn may be
safely stored in conventional silos, according to the engineers. The
:orn under test was put into the silos last fall with a moisture con-
:ent of 27 percent and sealed under plastic covers. Thermocouples in
:he silage show no signs of internal heating yet. This silage will be
Eed out this spring and summer to find out what happens after the seal
Ls broken.
-30-
lAJ:cm
3/24/58
-
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Begin Garden Insect Control Early
URBANA — J. R. Kamp, University of Illinois floriculturist,
reported today (Thursday) that insect control in the garden should be-
gin as early as possible. In fact, borer control on iris should begin
as soon as new growth is noted,
Kamp spoke at the UI Farm and Home Festival about "Waking Up
the Garden in Spring." The Festival began today and will continue
through Saturday on the Urbana campus,
Kamp said that all dead plant parts should be pruned and
destroyed early in spring, because they are ideal hosts for disease
organisms. Fertilizer, though, should not be applied until all danger
of frost is past. If a winter mulch, such as corn cobs or peat moss,
was used, it should be carefully worked into the topsoil.
All transplanting should be done before active growth begins,
according to Kamp. But, when plants are to be divided, it's best to
wait until the extent and vigor of new growth can be seen, Kamp said
not to divide clumps of spring-blooming plants in the spring, but to
do it as far from the blooming season as possible.
He also suggested that gardeners check early for possible
weaving. If a plant is nearly out of the ground, press it down immedi-
ately. Heaving injury is drying injury, he pointed out. And drying is
nost likely to occur in the early days of spring.
I
-30-
'AC tern
l/24/58
J
.
■ . . •-.■ - -
-
•
■
■
■
.
-
■
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27 , 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
ousehold Jobs May Be "Easier" Than You Think
URBANA — The woman who tops off a club meeting with a calorie-
adened morsel or who treats herself to a piece of pie after an after-
oon's ironing is just tormenting her waistline.
In a talk at Farm and Home Festival today (Thursday) , Univer-
ity of Illinois nutrition specialist Harriet Barto told her audience
hat many household activities require less energy (which means less
alories) than most people realize.
Even without the newer labor- and time-saving equipment, a
omemaker doesn't work so "hard" as she might think she does.
Miss Barto said that a woman who irons for an hour and then
iats a left-over piece of apple pie uses 140 calories for the ironing
md consumes about 330 calories in the pie.
Miss Barto" s calculations are for an overweight woman 5 feet,
t inches tall weighing 160 pounds.
Among other common activities, Miss Barto said that sitting
;or an hour — perhaps reading, riding as a passenger in a car or attend-
.ng a meeting— requires 95 calories. Driving a car requires 145 calo-
ies. Washing, rinsing and drying family dishes requires 140 calories.
>oing a light washing in a non-automatic machine uses 175 calories an
our. Sewing with an electric machine takes 115 calories, while peei-
ng potatoes requires 118 calories. Using a vacuum sweeper is one of
he more strenuous jobs, requiring 285 calories.
-more-
•
... .
■ . ■ '
• -
- •' ' -
lei ' ■
. . .■■.■■.
I
■ ■ ■
■ ■ ■
• ' ■
-
^dd Jobs - 2
These requirements are not just calculations. They are de-
termined by scientific instruments. Beula McKey, member of the nutri-
:ion research staff, showed Festival visitors equipment used to deter-
line these energy requirements. one such instrument, called a gaso-
leter, when placed on a woman's back, records the energy she uses while
jhe goes about her household tasks.
The department of home economics is completing plans to start
i study that will determine the amount of calories a homemaker uses in
ioing her various household jobs. The gasometer will be used in the
jtudy.
-30-
4VB:cm
J/24/58
•
-':
■
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
amilies Answer House Remodeling Questions
URBANA — If you were to do it again, would you build or re-
ode 1 your home in the same way?
That's what Farm and Home Festival guests today (Thursday)
sked some Illinois farm families who recently moved into improved
omes.
Keith Hinchcliff, University of Illinois extension housing
pecialist, asked this same question of more than 100 of these farm
iamilies. Their answers and some of the families themselves were en
land today to explain improved features in their homes to Festival
visitors.
Seven out of eight of the families used 50 percent more glass
ireas in their improved homes. Nearly all said they would do it again.
Nearly all of the families doubled their closet storage area.
knd they said they would add 50 percent more if they were to remodel or
build another house.
Many families have changed their ideas about the location
cf the living room. The families in the study tended to place the
Uving room toward the back of the house, overlooking a garden or lawn,
rather than toward the front facing a main road.
Members of an Illinois farm family that was recognized in a
•"•owe improvement contest sponsored by a national farm magazine (FARM
j0Urml) were present to talk with Festival visitors about their home
alterations.
-30-
WB:cm
3/24/58
■ • .
...
- -
.
-
'
■
•
.
-
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
aslc Color Scheme Keeps Room "Growing"
URBANA — From a toddler to a careerist, a person can change his
oom to complement his personality and needs with a few major altera-
ions.
University of Illinois home furnishings specialist Joan
iraham told Farm and Home Festival visitors today (Thursday) that a
>asic color scheme is the key to a versatile room.
By using the same family of colors, a room can usually shift
its "personality" to fit the personality and age level of the person.
Phe big change from toddler to teen-ager to careerist may simply mean
i different patterned fabric for the windows and sometimes a different
oedspread. Basically the wall color, floor covering and most of the
furniture can remain the same. Accessories can contribute new "feel-
ings" to the room for various ages.
In her presentation, Miss Graham showed how rooms could
start out with a toddler and "grow" with the person to his or her
bachelor or working-girl days. She showed how one major fabric change
for window treatment could transform a man's room from toddler to teen-
ier and finally to career man. A combination of wallpaper and fabric
tept the girl's room "growing."
-30-
HVB:cm
3/24/58
.
'
-
■
■
.
• •
■
:
'
.
Farm News
'ERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
ADVANCE PACKET OF FARM AND HOME FESTIVAL STORIES
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Dwarf Hybrids Stand Better, Yield Less Than Normal Hybrids
URBANA — Dwarf hybrid corn tested by University of Illinois
corn breeders has shown the outstanding ability to remain standing in
the field while as much as 50 percent of the normal hybrids have fallen
over.
Earl Leng# who has done much of the dwarf testing, told a large
audience at the Farm and Home Festival here today (Friday) that the best
dwarf hybrids tested so far have averaged about 10 percent less yield
than normal hybrids.
The dwarf hybrids, under study since 1948, range four to seven
feet high with ears 10 to 30 inches above the ground. Extensive test-
tog programs are planned for the next few years to see whether produc-
tion of commercial dwarf corn is possible and desirable, Leng reported.
G. E. Pickard, University agricultural engineer, reported
^at, with dwarf yields approaching normal hybrid yields, research has
°een started on harvesting methods using different types of machinery.
pull~type and self-propelled pickers and two types of combine attach-
es produced encouraging results in 1957 harvest tests.
HDGtcm
V24/58
-30-
ic • .
•• . • ■ . • . .
■ : ■ 6
' - ■ . -..,- • •■' '
.'. :-... - ' ...■: i£
" ■ , . .-• • ■ '
•" .
,-■..-. fc ... H
■ •-.. ".. ' • . '
< ...••■•-.•'•
' . •• ..:.■...■.:''." ,..''.
L -•'■-'.■ : • : ■-■■..' , ■.■■■-"'.. ■ .
... ........
... ' " ■ i i • • . -
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
arm and Home Festival Advance
orn Outyields Grain Sorghums When Weather
avorable; Hybrid Forage Sorghum Promising
URBANA — Corn will outyield grain sorghum in Illinois when the
'eather is favorable. That is what C, N. Hittle, University of Illi-
Lois agronomist, told Illinois farmers attending the Farm and Home
'estival here today (Friday) •
However, during dry years sorghum hybrids may prove more
profitable than corn on drouthy soils, Hittle cited the 1957 experi-
;nce in which hybrid sorghum was grown on pure sand in western Illi-
nois. With little moisture during July and August, it yielded 28
bushels an acre. On the same soil, standard sorghum varieties averaged
only 16 bushels, and corn yields dropped to 11 bushels,
Hittle also reported experiences in Champaign county in which
hybrids averaged 100 bushels an acre but corn yielded 115 bushels an
acre.
The wet fall of 1957 shows the need for sorghum growers to
have access to an artificial dryer. Farmers were also told that many
sorghum hybrids do not stand up too well in the field. But, in two
years of tests, hybrid sorghums have outyielded regular varieties by
!5 to 40 percent.
L. F. Stice, UI farm economist, pointed out that grain sorghum
"iust compete with corn in all market uses. So it must sell cheaper
than corn in order to displace it in market use. At present this
difference may range from 10 to 20 cents a bushel.
-more-
n ' l\
■ ■ -
■
,.-
■ ■ •
■:•
\
-
• -
. • •
'
■
•T ■
• • •
-
... ' --;
■
:
. • ■
•
I*
■ ■- :
■ :■ ■
:
. • • .
... ^ ■ .
. ■ i . '•
. ' '•
•
Add Sorghums - 2
Stice pointed out that wet processors do not process sorghum
in midwest plants. Distillers use sorghum grain to a limited extent
when it is cheaper than corn. For export, corn is preferred except
in Asiatic countries, where sorghum grain is used as food. To be ex-
ported for feed, sorghum must sell cheaper than corn.
Feed manufacturers can substitute sorghum for corn but will
not do so unless they have a constant supply and f e price is less than
for corn.
So Illinois farmers will find the main economic advantage of
sorghums will be as a substitute for soybeans, or for corn to comply
with allotments, and in areas where sorghum yields are higher or more
certain than corn.
K. A. Kendall, dairy scientist at the College of Agriculture,
reported that preliminary research with hybrid forage sorghums fed to
dairy cows looks very promising. Milk production stayed just as high
as when corn silage was fed. These new hybrid forage sorghums make
high grain yields — up to 75 bushels an acre — along with a heavy tonnage
of forage. In one test almost 30 tons an acre was produced.
Farmers may well question the value of alfalfa silage when
they can produce high-quality silage like this from hybrid forage
sorghum, he concluded.
-30-
HDGrcm
3/24/58
•
'
'
'
I
■
■
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Band-Spraying Opens Way to Low-Cost Chemical Weed Control
URBANA — Band-spraying a 12- to 14- inch strip over the row as
corn or soybeans are planted, followed by a later cultivation, offers
complete, low-cost weed control. That is what Earl C. Spurrier, Uni-
versity of Illinois agronomist, told farmers attending the Farm and
Home Festival here today (Friday) •
Giant foxtail, one of the most troublesome weeds, has been
successfully controlled with Randox band-sprayed on the soil before
the crop comes up. Getting rid of this weed in heavily infested fields
may increase corn yields by 30 percent and soybean by 60 percent,
according to research conducted at the University,
Wendell Bowers, extension agricultural engineer, urged farmers
who use the band-spraying method to make the band about 12 to 13 inches
wide. He also suggested keeping pressures low — under 40 pounds per
square inch to keep spray drift to a minimum.
Nozzle tips for sprayers should be selected for use with
this lower pressure. Farmers should not hesitate to change nozzles if
they can't get the correct discharge at pressures under forty pounds.
Bowers emphasized the need for accurate calibration of equip-
ment in order to do successful band- spraying. He suggested using a ground-
speed indicator in the field. But if that is not available, he pointed
out that farmers could figure speed by determining time and distance.
A speed of one mile per hour is about equal to 88 feet per minute.
-30-
HDG:cm
3/24/58
■
"
'
•
.
'
•
-
;
•■:
■
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Homemakers Must Keep Abreast of changing Foods
URBANA — Now that more and more homemakers are working out-
side the home each year, they must get acquainted not only with the
working world, but with the changing world of foods.
In a talk today (Friday) at Farm and Home Festival, Univer-
sity of Illinois foods specialist Mrs, Pearl Janssen said that new food
products and new preparation methods can whittle a homemaker's time in
her kitchen.
Today's kitchen equipment comes to the homemaker's aid in
simplifying many jobs. Use of electric mixer strikes out the "fold
carefully by hand" in early recipes and inserts "combine ingredients
with an electric mixer at low speed" instead. The mixer combines the
ingredients just as well as folding them by hand, but it requires less
time and energy.
Temperature-controlled burners on gas and electric ranges are
in some cases replacing the double boiler. Use of electric skillets
and deep-fat fryers gives more uniform results than can be obtained with
either practical tests or guesswork. Thermometers for sugar cookery,
for deep-fat frying and for meat cookery all give an exactness that is
difficult to get otherwise.
Mrs. Janssen said homemakers must be alert to recognize steps
they can cut out of many recipes. They often beat eggs unnecessarily
and often over&eat egg yolks until they are too stiff. Many times they
can shorten preparation time by starting to prepare foods on top of the
range and completing the cooking in the oven.
-30-
MVBrcm
3/24/58
■
-
■ .
1
■ . i
'
■
- '
'. •
'
'
■
\
r r
■ ■■
■
'
.
*
.' ■ .
■'■:.'
-
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Festival Visitors See Flowers for Home
URBANA — Farm and Home Festival visitors at the University of
Illinois today (Friday) picked up some tips on arranging flowers for
the home.
John R. Culbert, assistant professor of floriculture, and
several floriculture students worked together to show guests how to
decorate different rooms of a home with various flower arrangements.
While students gave the demonstrations, Culbert commented on
the arrangements, the materials involved in making them and ways in
which they could be adapted to different rooms, occasions and seasons.
Arrangements were made for the dining table, mantel, living
room, family room, bedroom and kitchen and for parties. Corsages were
also made for both formal and informal occasions.
-30-
MVB:cm
3/24/58
... . . . ...
•■"'■.-. .- . '.' '.'"'. ..
, • .... .-■'.' ■. ' , .'.'•.••
tLVV* ■ •'" . Y '.. ; .
■• . ■.: ■ . " .' ; ' . •. ' ' : •
■ >o ■•■' .. ' :.:■':.:■ • ■• •- ■ . . -. ' :
■ ■ • .< ■--. ::''.: •• • • • .. ■ -■
■':'■-. | j . • : ■■.:.;.;...
... .' '-■■:' " ••'■■.
■ . ■ ' . V- •.' : • • ■ •
: \
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Easy to Modernize Old Farmhouse Wiring
URBANA — You don't have to trade in your old wiring system on
a completely new one.
You can modernize the old one and still make use of old wiring
that is still in good condition, according to R. M. Peart, agricultural
engineer at the University of Illinois, In many homes, a larger fuse
box and two or three extra circuits will eliminate overloading and pro-
vide more convenient outlets at nominal cost.
Peart told a Farm and Home Festival audience today (Friday)
that new devices on the market make it easier for an electrician to
modernize an old system. For instance, a continuous plastic strip
with movable outlets can be fastened to a wall and plugged into an
electrical outlet at one end. The movable outlets can be put wherever
needed along the strip, although this circuit can be overloaded just as
any other circuit can.
Another type of steel duct has built-in wire and outlets.
One type looks like a baseboard and can be used as such in new homes.
Still another type of non-metallic surface fixture has a quick attach-
ment device so that wires, after being properly stripped of insulation
can be simply poked into the ends and spring- clamped in place,
A new idea for kitchens is an appliance center to provide
enough outlets and circuits for all the kitchen appliances you want.
One heavy cable runs from the center to the main fuse box. Time-delay
switches are available that will turn off a light about 30 seconds
after you have pushed the switch off. These are handy on outside lights
because you can switch them off inside the house, go out and get into
the car before the light goes off.
-30-
RAjtcm
3/25/58
'
.
'■
■'
■
i
■
-
.
■■.-'■' i B ,
:
■
[
■
.
. ■ .:
-
•
■'
....
-
, .
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Harvesting Method Does Not Affect Milk Production
URBANA — Experiments at the University of Illinois show that
forage crops can be fed as green feed silage or pasture without affect-
ing milk production so long as enough feed is provided.
That's what K. E. Harshbarger, dairy scientist at the Uni-
versity's College of Agriculture, told a Farm and Home Festival audience
here today (Friday) • In other words, adequate pasture or green feeding*
supplemented with a grain mixture, can give cows enough feed to produce
to their capacity.
Pasture provides cheap nutrients with low labor cost, Harsh-
barger pointed out, and is very satisfactory under most conditions.
But green feeding offers certain advantages over pasture that farmers
need to consider.
Green feeding gets more nutrients out of an acre of forage ?
because less feed is wasted and refused by the cattle. In addition
to little waste, this method of feeding prevents "fouling" the pasture
and selective grazing, both of which cut forage use when pastures are
grazed.
Fields do not need to be fenced for green feeding, and those
located too far from the barns for pasturing can be used.
Labor demand for green chop or green feeding is high, Harsh-
barger said, and equipment costs are involved. However, modern forage
harvesters are efficient machines.
-more-
•
.. ■ ■
■ :.. • ' ■ .\ • ..: • • • . - •■
•' • ' . ..■ -..'■•.'
. . ' ■ . ■ . .....
, :, > ■ • ■ " • ■ - . ■ ' ' • ■ ■
:■ • . ■ , .. ■ • . ■ , , i i ■
. ■ - ... . • • » j ■ ' •
• ' '■ . . • •• . ■•: ■ j ;
•••■■•:..•
- .1 .' " - • ■' ■; . :. . : : •
. • . . ■ . . ■. -■ ■ ,
... ., . • . ...
• . . . • ■ ••.*; • cl . ' : '
: ... •• • -.-...
■ '■ ■ . ■ . ■ • . • •■ \. ■ ."' • ■ '• . •: .
'■■■.:. i
-■ '.. . •
Add Summer Forage - 2
Summer forage can be stored for future feeding either as
silage or as hay. Both of these feeds can also be used for summer
feeding either to supplement pasture or to replace it entirely* En-
siling makes it possible to store forage crops without damage from rain.
However, hay makes excellent feed when harvested at the right stage of
maturity and when cured without rain damage.
Alfalfa is the most productive forage species, J. A. Jackobs,
University of Illinois agronomist, told the Festival audience. However,
it is better adapted for hay than for other uses when it is cut or
grazed before the bloom stage.
Frequent cutting of alfalfa reduces the vigor of the plant,
Jackobs said, and makes it more susceptible to bacterial wilt, a root
disease that shortens the life of the plant. For that reason, such
wilt-resistant varieties as Ranger, Buffalo and Vernal withstand fre-
quent cutting better than the common alfalfa and Grimm.
Alfalfa management studies at the Urbana and DeKalb experi-
ment fields have shown that a four-cut schedule produced 4,27 tons of
hay an acre compared with 5.27 tons an acre from a three-cut schedule.
Spring clipping cut seasonal yield .82 ton an acre even though the
clippings were included in the total, the agronomist stated.
In a three-cut schedule, with the first cutting at pre-bloom
rather than half-bloom stage, seasonal yield was down »61 ton an acre.
And more weeds grew in later cuttings when the first cutting .was taken
at pre-bloom.
A wilt-resistant variety has remarkable ability to recover
from frequent cutting when allowed to grow to bloom stage, DePuits, a
-more-
■
,
. •
■
• •
■
.
■
.
■
•
'
.
Add Summer Forage - 3
wilt- susceptible variety, recovers faster and is more productive than
other varieties until wilt reduces its stand, Jackobs said.
Chopping and hauling green forage is the most economical way
to handle hay crops so far as equipment is concerned Wendell Bowers,
extension agricultural engineer, told the audience.
Green chopping will cost about $7,50 an acre compared with
$16.00 an acre for making grass silage and $17.00 an acre for baling.
Main difference in cost comes from extra equipment and labor needed
to handle hay or to put grass silage into storage, Bowers said.
Large farmers with many units of labor and equipment may be
able to make this saving, Bowers believes, but a small farmer faces com-
petition for his time and equipment during peak work periods. The
small farmer must also justify owning a forage harvester.
Obviously, handling summer green chop cannot be a custom
operation, since the equipment is used every day. Bowers estimates that
a farmer would need to use at least 50 acres of corn and silage crops
to justify owning a $2,000 forage harvester.
Farmers who want to cut costs and still chop green forage
might look into rotary or flail- type harvesters. They are a little
less expensive and can be used for jobs other than chopping forage.
Each hour of such use is equal to chopping one acre of forage and can
be included when figuring the total acreage for justifying ownership.
F. W. Andrew, extension agricultural engineer at the Univer-
sity, said that electrically operated silo-unloading equipment is making
it much more attractive to put forage into storage when it is most
valuable and then feed it out mechanically as needed.
-more-
•
'
; . -•'■'
- ;
'- ■
:
■
:
:
■
:
.
■ ■
>
.
Add summer Forage - 4
Frequent and uniform mechanical unloading reduces spoilage
to a minimum, Andrew pointed out. Year-round use of the silo and
equipment spreads out the depreciation on the investment.
Such mechanical feeders as the "lazy Susan," auger, shuttle-
stroke or chain-conveyor type will complete mechanization of summer
forage feeding. Farmers should remember that they'll probably have to
make needed wiring changes to carry the power requirements of such
mechanical equipment, the engineer said. This equipment must be in-
stalled correctly to protect motors and switches from the weather and
animals. The systems also must be grounded properly.
Some farmers with a self-feeding hay-drying system now make
enough hay forage during the summer to go through all the feeding
seasons without having to graze their pastures at all, Andrew said,
-30-
RAJrcm
3/25/58
. J
■
.
■
'
.
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Dairy Scientist Finds Eight Proteins in Milk
URBANA — A dairy scientist at the University of Illinois has
found eight different proteins in milk.
He is B. L. Larson, assistant professor of biological chem-
istry in the Department of Dairy Science, who has been using radio-
active carbon as a tracer to isolate and identify these various milk
compounds.
Protein is the most important single factor in milk, G. W.
Salisbury, head of the Department of Dairy Science, told a Farm and
Home Festival audience here today (Friday) . Salisbury told about Lar-
son1 s work with radioactive tracers in pointing out some of the current
dairy research work in the department.
Protein study is important, Salisbury said, because the dairy
cow is such an efficient converter of the nitrogen element in the feeds
she eats. In the process of making milk, she changes about 80 percent
of the protein (nitrogen) in feeds, above her body needs, into milk
protein.
Four of the eight proteins are put together in the udder,
according to Larson's studies. The other four are filtered out of the
cow's flood.
Only because of recent discoveries in the field of atomic
energy have dairy scientists, along with others, had tools for studying
such complex compounds as proteins, Salisbury pointed out. Radioactive
-more-
• ■
... -. ■;■ .. .-.- .:.•.
:• . : ■ *- ' ' '" . •
*
H [l j ' !
!
. . . KC 2 3 '
. ■ . ' ' ' ■■■• ' y
.
• - ■ ■■ .■
- ■ r DliJ
• ' ■ • • •-"'-
:. aeens ■ -
-
I
-. ' '•:.••
.
■ . oq
Add Protein in Milk - 2
elements permit the scientists to study the internal chemistry of
animals with more perception than in the past.
Dairy scientists at the university of Illinois have also used
radioactive carbon to trace the cause of udder edema, or swelling.
Larson has found out that the tremendous drain of minerals out of the
blood stream of cows at calving time causes the swelling,
A cow with edema has thrown her whole body chemistry out of
balance in producing large amounts of the highly potent first milk, or
colostrum, that is so valuable for new-born calves, Salisbury pointed
out that the result of this imbalance is that water leaves the cow's
bloodstream and other areas of her body to lodge under the skin of the
udder and abdomen and cause the swelling,
-30-
RAJrcm
3/25/58
. " -" : l\ ■'■: ■ •
-
■ -
I
I
;
i
; ... . •
■
. !. .
'• •
"
••
-
- •-"..•
■
■
•
■
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28 , 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
still Problems in Artificial Swine Insemination
URBANA — Much research is needed before artificial insemination
of swine becomes practical.
P. J, Dziuk, animal scientist at the University of Illinois
College of Agriculture, today (Friday) told a Farm and Home Festival
audience about his work in artificial swine insemination. His report
was one of three about highlights of livestock research at the Univer-
sity.
Sows and gilts have been artificially inseminated with semen
stored in a diluter for various lengths of time, Dziuk reported. Con-
ception rates for fresh, undiluted semen and semen stored for one, two
and three days were 56 percent, 55 percent, 5 percent and 42 percent.
The relatively low conception rate for females when semen
stored for three days was used is probably too low to permit use of
semen stored that long to be practicable. The difference between the
results with semen stored for two and three days was probably due to
addition of antibiotics in that stored the extra day. Further improve-
ments in diluters and handling techniques should permit more widespread
use of artificial insemination in pigs, Dziuk said.
Most satisfactory diluter used in these experiments, the
animal scientist said, was made up of glucose, sodium bicarbonate, egg
yolk and distilled water, to which penicillin and streptomycin were
added, studies are now under way to find the fertilizing ability of
-more-
I fa
■
.. .
. .;.• • .
. .■
I II!
' I. '..:';•'■
. . .
.. . : -
Add Livestock Research - 2
hog sperm stored under the best conditions for various lengths of
time.
In discussing the possibility of inducing off-season lambing,
Dziuk said that temperature, light and breed of sheep all have a part
to play in the relative success of changing the natural breeding sea-
son of sheep. Most of the work being done in this area results mostly
from an attempt to spread out the lamb market and to make better use
of equipment and time on the farm
Besides creating artificial conditions of light and temper-
ature, research on off-season lambing presently is investigating the
use of combinations of hormones to induce heat in ewes and also ovula-
tion.
In another part of this session, Joseph Kastelic told the
audience that much research work needs to be done in the areas of
mineral nutrition, metabolism of vitamins and factors in the ruminant
that affect the animal's use of forage.
Work is also being done on the effect of aging on nutritional
requirements of animals and the effect of gamma irradiation on the pro-
teins of beef and certain vegetable products, Kastelic said. Main
purpose of these investigations is to develop basic information that
will let farmers and consumers use feeds and foods more efficiently in
animal and human nutrition.
-30-
RAJrcm
3/25/58
■
: : '
.
o bee
■
■ - ; . ■
2
:
FOR RELEASE FRIDAY, MARCH 28, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Sell New Frontiers in An'mal Disease Control
URBANA — New ways of using science to control old diseases as
well as outbreaks of new diseases were discussed and demonstrated by
university of Illinois veterinarians today (Friday) at the 1958 Farm
and Home Festival.
Drs. L. E. Boley, J. 0. Alberts and P. D. Beamer told Festi-
val visitors how basic research is translated into healthier communities,
more profitable livestock, more attractive clothing and tastier food.
Tuberculosis control in cattle is a continuing frontier in
disease eradication, Dr. Boley said. The disease was identified in
only .14 percent of 384,382 cattle during 1956-57. This is the lowest
number of reacting animals during the past 30 years, according to the
40th Annual Report of the Department of Agriculture.
Incidence of brucellosis in cattle is being continually re-
duced every year as the result of the vigorous brucellosis testing pro-
gram sponsored by the state and federal governments. Veterinarians of
the state Department of Agriculture, practicing veterinarians and county
veterinarians are participating in this eradication program.
Incidence of brucellosis in Illinois has been reduced from
6.0 percent in 1947 to 1.39 percent in 1958. Cases of undulant fever
in man were reduced from 554 in 1947 to 141 in 1955.
Perry, Vermilion, Kankakee and Ford counties were the first
in Illinois to qualify as modified certified brucellosis-free areas.
-more-
■
•
'•
.:... ::.'
■
? ' — . . _ ... ■■
■
.
.. • ••
■'•■
.-.,
•.
■
.
. | . ... ...
••
j . - ■-....
, • •■'..'■■
••.... : ' ... t&c .
i
E
■ • ■ • ■ • ' ■ . ■ ,
. •
Add Veterinarians - 2
An area is so certified when tests show that the infection rate has
been reduced to not more than one percent of the cattle and five per-
cent of the herds. Nine states, Puerto Rico and 464 counties and 27
other states are now so certified*
Scrapie in sheep was first diagnosed in Illinois in March
1953. The only control measure is slaughter of infected or exposed
sheep, since treatment is not effective, said L. E. Boley. Research
must find the way the disease spreads and effective methods of prevent-
ing and diagnosing it in its early stages.
Blue tongue of sheep causes heavy losses in our neighboring
states. It is caused by a virus and characterized by inflammation
and ulceration of the mouth and tongue. A vaccine is now being used
effectively to control the disease.
Some diseases cost only money; others cost human lives. More
than 80 diseases are transmissible from animal to man. Rabies, which is
serious in human beings, has recently been found in a variety of wild
animals. University of Illinois veterinarians are conducting investi-
gations in the hope of finding the wild animals that may act as reservoirs
for the disease.
-30-
JER:cm
3/25/58
.«■ ■■ ■ .. ■•.
* ... 9 • ' •■ » ' • ■• -- Q
^ c . ■ ■.' . ■ I 1 . . .-'
" : ; . • ■•...". • .•■••■ '
••• -
| ■ ■"• . . • •. : - ■ ■ •- ' '. - . - ..
* • ' • • ••'.•■ : - ■ .
' ' ■■ . • • ' ■ .•:••- .•■..
,:.:..■ '.■■:■ J ■ ■ | J .. |
: ■ - •
■ • £ t . ■"..''" I •. j ,3
: : •..■•'■ • • .
r. p . ' '' • 3Vj
. •. •'■;.••'•' ■... ' • <
:'-. riw , . :• ;'.. . ' ' :.; <• < fl£ ' ' ■ I i ■ . JX&
■"'-.''."'::..' - ; • .' ,;.: , I ! t
noD ' : >v 3 • . : ' I ■ '-. '
J. -. ' ' ' ■ ..'■-. •; ■ ■ ';.•,••. • ;' . ;
' I
•
3«
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY/ MARCH 27, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
70 Percent of Food Protein Comes From Animals
URBANA — American families got 70 percent of the protein they
ate in 1956 from animal foods.
And that protein was much higher in quality than protein from
plant foods, according to Karl E. Gardner, dairy scientist at the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Gardner told a capacity Farm and Home Festival audience in
the Veterinary Medicine Auditorium today (Thursday) that Americans in
that same year spent 71 cents of their food dollar for foods produced by
animals.
And in spite of the fact that the larger share of dietary pro-
tein comes from animal products, these foods contained less than half
of the calories in the American diet, the scientist pointed out. That
is one of the advantages of meat in the diet, because overweight is an
important human nutritional problem today.
Another good feature of livestock farming is that you can do
a whale of a lot of farming on a few acres, Gardner stated. The best
example is poultry or swine farming. And it lends itself beautifully
to both intensive and extensive types of farming.
For example, many farmers have found that they can intensify
their livestock operations both by increasing numbers and by improving
quality in animals. Some dairy farmers are doing three times as much :..
-more-
- : i
■■■•::■ '.i¥.3PS
": _ •
■ :• ■' i ^ I :■:::( tq or . I
••v' f.f '•-...
■ !v ■•: • .. | , ..-' .-. -. , • . ■' j-?;-.t.;: ;
• :'■■■ ■■•"'. • • ' ' '• ...-■.- N;
- •. I ; ; .j\0 ,
i . . . r.tS • j«£i • ..-. ' :.l •
■ ' ■ i " - ■ • • ' . !
. ;" '; ::•" ' . '. - ■ '•'. ■ "■ .'■■.,'
"-".. •••.■:. • :■"■ ' ■ :
•..'i.:.^:f- . ixmt ' : ,r. ji ' . . , - ; •:
■ • '■■'■■■. . i .'• ... ';'• - : • •..
Add Livestock - 2
dairying with the same number of cows as their neighbors • These farmers
may be getting triple the income on only double the amount of milk.
Raising livestock also helps to maintain and improve soil
fertility, Gardner said. Farmers could not afford to grow roughages
only to let them fall over and be plowed under. In a reasonable
economy, they must first go through cattle and sheep.
One reason Illinois farmers are interested in raising live-
stock is that they grow so much grain, Gardner said. He estimated
that more than 87 percent of the corn grown in the state is fed to
livestock. Only 18 percent of soybeans is oil, and the other 82 percent
winds up mainly as livestock feed.
The greatest single granary is the four-footed one, Gardner
stated. Millions of bushels of grain are now under government seal;
but millions more are built into meat on the nation's farms and ranches.
Are we satiated with meat in this country, or can we eat
still more, the dairy scientist asked? Merely look at the 50 percent
increase in per capita beef consumption over the past 18 years, 20 per-
cent in pork, 90 percent in ice cream, 25 percent in eggs, 50 percent
in cheese and 60 percent in chicken to see the answer. And Americans
are still not the world leaders in consumption of meat and dairy prod-
ucts per capita.
Finally, wisecracks are sometimes heard about the "fuss and
muss" type of agriculture, Gardner said. This reference is to animals.
The implication is that the farmer must be pretty stupid to go to all
the trouble of working with livestock. What is needed is a little
better appreciation of the function performed by animals. Without them
the cornfields would still be swamps and the wooded areas mainly wild-
Ufe refuges, he said.
-30-
RAJrcm
V25/58
'
• ■ ■■ •'
-
• . : • . . . •
., . - . I
..
• . . .
■■ . •
' " :
' " - ■
.• • •
- ,
.
'
.
•-
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tips on Lawn Care
by H. R. Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
Taking good care of lawns is practically a year-round job. It begins in
early spring as soon as the ground is dry and doesn't end until all the leaves are
removed in the fall.
Lawn care in the spring should begin with rolling. Rolling firms sod that
has been heaved by freezing and thawing. It should be done when you can crumble in
your hand the upper inch of soil from bare ground next to the lawn. The roller
should be light (about 100 pounds of "weight for each foot of roller width). Using
a heavy roller or rolling when the soil is wet causes compaction, which prevents
roots from developing and moisture from soaking into the soil.
Fertilizing
Fertilizer containing nitrogen should be added to lawns twice a year. It
gives grass a uniform green color and makes the sod dense, discouraging weed growth.
Apply fertilizer in late March or April, and again in late August or September. The
maximum rate is 20 pounds of 10-8-6, or a similar analysis, for every 1,000 square
feet. Fertilizing in late spring or midsummer stimulates growth of crabgrass and
other weeds.
Spread the fertilizer evenly. Uneven application will cause streaks of
different shades of green. Water the lawn afterwards to prevent the fertilizer from
burning the grass.
Mowing
About a week before the first mowing, rake the lawn to remove dead grass,
leaves, twigs and other winter debris. You may need to rake occasionally after
later mowings if you find too many clippings on the lawn.
-more-
■ ■ ■
•' ' . ■ -k . . ■ , • - tdxjfo'
' ■ • • ■ '• ■ ., '■.-''.'
' ! ■ J ' . ''■. : \v? ''■ ■
- ■ • la ' ' • ■ • ■ .
, ' ; • ■;•'•■ ' •' ' • • '
... • ■ ■ • ■".. . ' , . ..
----- ..:,,,
••..'".'■■•-'•
\ • -■ ■ •.-... i
■ ra ■■ \ '"'•• •'. ■ ■ - '."■
• . •-•'...-•..■ .., ■. . \ . .. . .-.
"•"'■■■■ ' .'■ • ' ' ' . ' I '.' '
• • • .-
L
'
•
-2-
Grass should be mowed when it is three inches high. If it is allowed to
grow any taller, the lower blades may burn when they are exposed to the direct sun-
light after mowing. Also, the clippings will not work into the soil. Instead, they
vill turn into brown patches on the lawn unless they are raked. Grass should not
be cut shorter than 1 l/2 inches (unless it is bent grass); it will not grow well if
too much of the leaf surface is removed. A high cutting height will help to produce
a dense, uniform green lawn.
Watering
Lawns usually need watering only in July and August and sometimes in
September. When it's necessary to water, soak the soil six inches deep. Then sit
back and relax for a week before watering again. Sprinkling a little every night is
harmful; it causes the roots to grow near the surface, where the soil quickly dries
out.
Weeds
Weeds are the result and not the cause of poor lawns. Lawns can be kept
weed-free by fertilizing them twice a year, never mowing them shorter than 1 l/2
inches and watering them to a six- inch depth. The thick turf produced by these treat-
ments prevents light from reaching the young weed seedlings. And they cannot live
without light.
Weeds in a small lawn can be easily eradicated by digging them out with a
knife. In large lawns, it's easier to use chemical weed killers. When using a
chemical weed killer, be sure to follow the manufacturer's directions.
Insects and Worms
If your lawn is healthy and shows no signs of insect activity, insecticides
are not necessary. If there are insects, find out what they are and apply the correct
insecticide .
-more-
•
■-
. . . ' . . :
. . . ' . ■ .".-"..'■■ '. . '
•
'
.■
...
:
.
»cT .- i ■■ ■ ■ • -
' jo : •
" •.* . •
• • . - .
■ ■ ■ " - .
'
■
•
-3-
Lead arsenate and cblordane "Will control grubs and earthworms, Chlordane
also checks webworms, chiggers and ants. Apply lead arsenate at the rate of 10
pounds for every 1,000 square feet of lawn. Apply chlordane at the rate of l/k
pound of actual chlordane for the same area. Let the insecticides remain on the
soil several days. Then water them in.
-30-
PAC:cm
3/25/58
•
) ••■ • • • • ' - '"
• . •'-■' ■■ : : " ■" '■■•
• ' ' ■ "• '
f - F ' » " ■ ■ ' <"
...-■ . • . - ■
■
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, MARCH 27, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Franklin County Takes Top House Remodeling Award
URBANA — Franklin county entries in the farm home remodeling
contest during Farm and Home Festival walked off with the top sweep-
stakes award this morning (Thursday) •
Four Franklin county entries won ribbon awards, according to
Keith Hinchcliff and Catherine M. Sullivan, extension farm housing spe-
cialists at the University of Illinois, who judged the entries. Sanga-
mon county won the second sweepstakes award with two ribbon-winning
entries.
Twenty- seven entries from 18 different counties went on dis-
play for visitors in Bevier Hall on the University campus as the Festi-
val opened its doors today for a three-day stand.
Blue-ribbon award winners were Mr. and Mrs. Robert L. Ficklin, R. 2,
Fairbury, Livingston county? Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Law, R. 2, Mt. Carroll,
Carroll county; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Neilson, West Frankfort, Franklin
county; Mr. and Mrs. Stanley Smith, Williamson, Will county; and Mr.
and Mrs. Urban J. Kocher, R. lr West Liberty, Jasper county. The Kocher
entry also won third place in a national contest recently sponsored by
Farm Journal magazine for remodeling in the price range over $500.
Red ribbons were awarded to the entries of Mr. and Mrs. S. B.
Pilcher, R. 2, Cuba, Fulton county; Mr. and Mrs. R. W. Kettlekamp,
Pleasant Plains, Sangamon county; Mr. and Mrs. Foster Walk, Neoga,
Cumberland county; Mr. and Mrs. Herman Tote, R. 2, West Frankfort,
Franklin county; and Mr. and Mrs. Ralph S. Uhles, R. 3, Benton,
Franklin county.
-more-
■'•.-.
'■}.' ., ■..,-: -• ■ ■ • ■-- .
• ' ' ■ • - -; ' .: - □ •
■■■'-' "• <_.
i'i ■ ■ . • . •
3 ; •' '
.>.:.'■■'< ..■'.'.
'••" ' :". ■ . ' : .:. ■
' '. • ■ ' "' . .
■ ■ ■• • '■: . . . . " . "! ■
■ ■ ■ " ' ' .
. ' '■ • . ■ • -■: f ■- :
■'."-' - ''•••:■■■
.-.'•-••.■
. . ... ■ - ■ • ■
Add Remodeling Contest - 2
White-ribbon winners included Mr, and Mrs, Audra Bennett#
R, 1, Royalton, Franklin county; Mr, and Mrs. Warren Young, R, 2,
Champaign, Champaign county? Mr. and Mrs. E. J. Fredericksen, Reddick,
Kankakee county; Mr, and Mrs. James Haught, R. 4, Paris, Edgar county;
and Mr. and Mrs. Scott B. Irwin, Pleasant Plains, Sangamon county.
Entries were also received from Randolph, Douglas, McHenry,
Marion, Monroe, Cass and Bond counties.
-30-
RAJtcm
3/26/58
■
•
'••
.
«
'
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
ADVANCE PACKET OF FARM AND HOME FESTIVAL STORIES
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Many Missing Facts on Heart Disease
URBANA — No direct relation between heart disease and fat or
other food components has yet been established, a University of Illi-
nois food chemist told Farm and Home Festival visitors this morning
(Saturday) .
Speaking on "Fats and the Heart" on the last day of the Urbana
campus event, F. A. Kummerow explained that, before we can hope for a
solution to the problem, more basic research is needed to find out how
the body operates normally and what goes wrong when heart disease
occurs.
Although many facts connected with the "metabolism" or use
by the body of fat and other food components are known, more needs to
be learned before they can be fitted into an understandable picture of
heart disease.
The solution to the problem will depend mainly on how fast
the missing knowledge can be accumulated. This will depend on how
rcuch Americans are willing to pay for heart disease research, he con-
cluded.
UN: cm
-30-
. _ . •.
, '
•<- ~ ■ ■■ • "■
• £9V Jt nu ..... s ... " . .
■ ■ •
: . • - •'•'.■
-
• . - . n . . : • ' •■'..'
,, • .; ' . . \ ■ . '
' ■ • • ' ■•'- ■
-. .1
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
More Skill Needed for Fewer Future Farming opportunities
URBANA — A University of Illinois farm economist today urged
parents of farm boys to appraise their sons' abilities and opportunities
early enough to permit them to study and train for nonfarm vocations.
F. J. Reiss, speaking to parents attending the final day of
the Farm and Home Festival here today (Saturday) , emphasized that not
all farm boys will have a chance to farm even if they want to. If the
number of farms stayed the same, there would be only about 25 oppor-
tunities each year for young men to start farming for every 1,000 farms.
But with the number of farms now declining, there are only 12 to 15
opportunities per 1,000 farms each year, Reiss pointed out.
To have a farm unit of adequate size means more land and
operating capital each year, Reiss stated, one man can now farm over
200 acres of tillable land and care for some livestock.
The need for good management ability is much higher on to-
day's larger farms than it was 25 years ago. Reiss said that a high
school education with training in agriculture might be enough for the
average farm operator, but in every community agriculture needs leaders
with college training too.
To get a satisfactory start in farming today, a young man
will need family assistance to provide access to land, capital and the
necessary apprenticeship experience. The successful farmer of tomorrow
roust also be well acquainted with the skills of money management, invest-
ment, productive uses and saving, Reiss concluded.
-30-
HDGtcm
V26/58
. . '
I
.. , •■ . . . . .
■ ' ■ ■
■
■■,...
■ ■■■.■ . . . -
■ ■
. ■
. . . ■ . - %
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Farm Living Is Becoming More Desirable
URBANA — Family living on the farm is becoming more desirable
and will become even more so during the coming years, according to
Mrs. Ruth Crawford Freeman, University of Illinois associate professor
of family economics,
Mrs. Freeman and C. B. Baker, associate professor of farm
management, addressed Farm and Home Festival visitors today (Saturday)
on the future of family living and the future of farming.
Mrs. Freeman said the availability of space in farm homes,
in addition to the trend toward modern facilities and equipment, will
give farm families an advantage over town families as urban areas be-
come more congested.
The present increased emphasis on scientific knowledge will
encourage more families to see that their children get a college educa-
tion. The financial burden may not be greatly increased because of
the many educational helps, but if more of the sons leave home to go to
college the farm labor problem will be more severe.
Mrs. Freeman believes that farm family security has been
helped by the social security program. Also, more sons will have a
chance to manage the home farms after their fathers retire at an
earlier age.
-more-
.
.
5
•
'
: '• ■ IJ
. :; ' • . 'r{v:v ..*•.*.>?.• :. : :■ ■'■■■ '•'
- ■: ■
-
-
■
- ■
■
: .
■
I
• .. .
n
-
Add Family Living - 2
In exploring the future of farming. Baker told Festival guests
that farms are continuing to grow larger and become more commercial.
This creates fundamental changes in capital structure and financial
needs of farmers. Yet the market position of farmers changes slowly.
Baker believes that how farmers adjust to still further change
in technology and growth of the general economy will determine the
farming look of the future.
-30-
MVBrcm
3/26/58
-
.
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Dwarf Fruit Trees Ideal for Small Yards
URBANA — Frank Owen, University of Illinois fruit crops spe-
cialist, reported today (Saturday) that dwarf fruit trees are ideal for
home owners with small yards.
Owen talked about "Doing Big Things With Little Trees in Your
Yard" on the Farm and Home Festival program.
Most important advantage of dwarf fruit trees is the small
space they require, Owen said. This permits more trees of different
varieties to be grown and results in a continuous supply of fresh fruit
during the growing season.
He also pointed out that dwarf fruit trees can be used as
ornamentals in landscaping. They are particularly useful as fences.
The trunks make the posts, and the branches make the boards or wires.
The result is a good-looking rail fence that bears fresh fruit.
-30-
PAC : cm
3/26/58
■ ■ • '
I
:;:•.-.- ; - . • • • ■ ■ i :
• . - I
.- \ .
■ ■ ' ■ i . '. • - . - ' ■ .- . [mi
£ ffT * , ' ■ . . ■ " ■ (
■ ' . . .: J .. ■-."■...- ( d '■ '
. • ' ei . "»
" ' • ■ ":
' .-..,• j : • '
i . ' • • ' • '
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Champaign County 4- H'er Wins X-Tra Yield Corn Contest
URBANA — Andy Edwards, Tolono, Champaign county 4-H boy,
today (Saturday) was named winner of the 1957 4-H X-Tra Yield Corn
contest. His winning yield was 206 bushels an acre.
Winners were announced and prizes awarded at the annual 4-H
X-Tra Yield Corn contest banquet this noon in the Illini Union ballroom
on the University of Illinois campus- The banquet was one of the
features of the 1958 Farm and Home Festival that ends today.
District X-Tra Yield contest winners also announced were
Gene McCoy, Tiskilwa, 162.7 bushels, district 1; Harley Doubet, Hanna
City, 161.3 bushels, district 2; Edwards, district 3; Richard Herman,
Moweaqua, 146.8 bushels, district 4; and Bill Payne, Ewing, 144.5
bushels, district 5.
The yield contest was judged on the basis of corn grown on a
5-acre supervised plot last summer. Yield counted for 60 percent of
the contestant's score, costs for 20 percent and quality for 20 percent.
Each district winner was awarded a wrist watch and ribbon, with a trophy
for Edwards.
Five other 4-H'ers were awarded $100 scholarships in the
same contest on the basis of their projects and activities, leadership
and personal development.
-more-
.
.
•
-
■■
■
*s • .
- .
■
Add X-Tra Yield Corn Contest - 2
Scholarship winners are Wallace Ramsay, Caledonia, district 1;
George Mueller, Taylor Ridge, district 2; Ronald Dickey, Pawnee, dis-
trict 3; Robert Bohlen, Moweaqua, district 4; and Daryl Reid, Sparta,
district 5.
Featured speaker at the banquet was Lyman Shawl, Illinois
Agricultural Association, Chicago. Ernie Stevenson, IAA, was master
of ceremonies, and Fred Herndon, Chicago, president of the Illinois
Farm Supply Company, gave the awards. Contest is sponsored by the
University of Illinois in cooperation with the Farm Supply Company.
-30-
RAJrcm
3/26/58
.
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Larger Farming Units Follow Economic Trends
URBANA — Fewer and larger farming units follow a trend charac-
teristic of all American industry that has been going on for a long
time.
The dairy industry is following this trend, Roy Van Arsdall
told a Farm and Home Festival audience here today (Saturday) •
During the past 10 years, mechanization of forage production,
feed processing and feeding, plus revoluntionary developments in the
milking operation, has swept the dairy business forward, said the Uni-
versity of Illinois farm economist.
Van Arsdall said that only a general answer can be given to
the question of how big an operation Illinois dairymen should have.
The exact size of herd that is best depends on the individual farm
and may vary considerably among farms and dairymen. He quoted a dairy
specialist from a large dairy state, who said that, to get the highest
net returns, a dairy farmer should (1) get cows with high inherent
milk-producing capacity, (2) put them on the best possible feeding pro-
gram and (3) keep as many of them per man as he can economically
handle.
He quoted another dairy specialist as saying that the most
profitable herd size is the one that best fits the pasture and forage
produced on any particular farm, whether it is 10 cows or 300 cows.
Both of these recommendations have merit and will help the individual
dairyman to establish the best size of herd for his needs.
-more-
'
.
.
-
••' '
I
'
■
■
'
■
Add Dairy operations - 2
Van Arsdall pointed out that dairy farmers can generally re-
duce the labor needed per cow by adding more cows to the herd. How-
ever, results of one recent study show that many dairy farmers have a
better chance of reducing their labor per cow by doing a better job
with what they have than by adding more cows.
Costs per hundredweight of milk produced decrease rapidly up
to the size of herd that employs one man full time, the economist said.
For the average setup, that is now somewhere around 40 cows. Costs per
hundredweight normally go down very little for larger herds. This is
no reason, Van Arsdall believes, why some farmers would not do well to
consider a two-man dairy to provide the leisure time and other advan-
tages that such a system would make available.
Although herd size must fit the individual situation, dairy
farms should be large enough and efficient enough to give the farmers
who operate them working conditions and incomes comparable with those
enjoyed by persons in other work.
Leo Fryman, extension dairy specialist at the University, in
another part of the session on milk production, pointed out that the
total investment in the modern dairy farm has gone up considerably in
recent years. Most of this increase is due to bulk milk tanks, pipe-
line milkers and other labor-saving equipment that dairymen have in-
stalled in their plants.
The result of higher investments in dairying has been that
many former dairy farmers have gone out of the business or are going
into it on a larger scale, Fryman pointed out. The trend is toward
fewer but much larger dairy units.
-more-
■
1
.
'
,
.
.
:
. ■
'
C
■
■
■
■
'
•
•
.
-
Ldd Dairy Operations - 3
Another indicator of this trend is the fact that size of
lerds on Dairy Herd Improvement Association test in Illinois has been
.ncreasing at the rate of about two cows a year, the dairy specialist
;aid. He believes this trend is likely to continue.
Level of production, feed cost and returns above feed cost
ill affect net returns on a dairy farm. Fryman inspected records of
;he Holstein herds on DHIA test in Illinois to see what effect size of
>peration had on these three items.
In general, he reports no difference in level of production
Ln herds containing up to 61 cows. In larger herds, production per cow
/as slightly lower, and that caused lower returns over feed cost per
:ow. Feed costs per cow were about the same in all herds except those
/ith fewer than 10 cows, where the cost per cow was higher.
Net price of milk sold from the smaller herds — up to 10 cows —
/as lower than in the other herds. Fryman believes that this shows that
nore of the small dairy farms did not make the changes needed to pro-
luce Grade A milk for maximum milk prices on their farms.
Among all the groups studied, lower unit price of milk and
ligher feed cost per cow caused returns over feed cost per cow to be
Lowest in herds of fewer than 10 cows, Fryman concluded.
Also on the panel discussing size of operation and economy of
nilk production were Paul Montavon, DeKalb county, and Donald Dean,
-hampaign county, both milk producers. J. G. Cash, extension dairy
specialist at the University, moderated the panel.
-30-
RAJtcm
3/26/58
'
■
'
■
'
.
'
' .
.
FOR RELEASE SATURDAY, MARCH 29, 1958
Farm and Home Festival Advance
Automation Is Part of the swine Revolution
URBANA — End result of the revolution now going on in the swine
industry will be a standardized, high-quality product in level supply
reaching for an expanded market.
That's what S. W. Terr ill, head of the swine division at the
university of Illinois, told a Farm and Home Festival audience here
today (Saturday) •
Overfat pork and inefficient management are two of the biggest
problems facing the swine industry, Terr ill told the audience. Other
problems to be solved include those on breeding, feeding, disease con-
trol, marketing and housing.
As those problems are solved, Terrill looked forward to a
highly efficient and integrated swine industry producing a high-quality
product through the best methods of breeding, feeding, management and
marketing that research could uncover.
Trends for the future in swine growing indicate more use of
confinement rearing of pigs on concrete, more complete rations and a
higher degree of specialization, with emphasis on large-volume, low-
cost operations, Terrill said.
At the same session, E. L. Hansen, agricultural engineer at
the University of Illinois, told Festival visitors that raising hogs
in confinement presents some problems in cleaning and sanitation.
(more)
'
"•
'
■
' .
'
■
■
;
■ . '
" '
i
'
.'
•
•
'
'
'
Add Swine Automation - 2
However, as agricultural engineers solve these problems, Hansen pointed
out that they have a good chance to mechanize and make the feeding set-
up automatic,
A hog's life is simple, and he can be raised under a wide
range of conditions, Hansen pointed out. Yet research has shown that a
hog's environment has a great effect on the amount he eats and gains.
One test in Iowa last summer showed that keeping summer temperatures at
80 degrees instead of 84 degrees lowered the cost of producing pork by
80 cents a hundred pounds, he said.
The automatic swine confinement pen now being studied at the
University's swine farm has been under development for 15 years, Hansen
told the Festival audience. It has been operated this winter with 75-
to 200-pound hogs.
Locating the sleeping area within 10 feet of the outside floor
will help to prevent dunging in the sleeping area. That's one thing
the swine researchers and engineers learned this winter, Hansen said.
Hogs should be made to go from their sleeping area out onto the floor
on their way to water and feed. This helps the pressure water system
to flush manure away automatically.
In discussing the automatic feeding systems needed in con-
finement growing of hogs, H. B. Puckett pointed out that the first ob-
jective is to do away with manual labor completely.
Puckett, USDA agricultural engineer on the University staff,
said that the automatic feeding setup was designed to take feed from
storage; prepare a ration of a specific blend, grind it and take it to
the animals without human attention. This system does that.
-more-
[
■ .
■
■ ■
....
.
-
-
'
•
'
• ■ , ■ •
■
■ ■.
,
1
»
'
-.
Add Swine Automation - 3
First need is self-unloading bins. Both flat -bottom and
hopper-bottom bins are in use at the swine farm setup now. Then, bin
switches on small hoppers above the meters control the raw materials
as they fall into the grinder to get the desired blend of ingredients.
A new and promising high-pressure pneumatic conveying system
was put in to carry the feed to the animals. This system makes it easy
for the farmer to deliver a specified amount of feed, at any particular
time of the day he wishes, to feed outlets without having to be present
for the operation.
Finally, an auger feed distributor puts the feed before the
animals. Automatic switches in the feed trough control it. Puckett
emphasized that this equipment is experimental and is constantly being
altered and replaced by other and better equipment. However, the system
has worked well enough this winter to indicate that it is entirely
possible to raise hogs in confinement with little or no manual labor.
-30-
RAJicm
3/26/58
... 9
• ■ • . . - ■
... . ..
■ '. ■ ■ ■■ " . .
... ■ :.
• . •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service "by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending March 28, 1958. )
Cash Grain Prices Show Little Relation to Futures
URBANA — Grain prices were steady to slightly stronger during the -week
ending March 28, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain
marketing staff. Futures prices for corn and new crop wheat gained in relation to
cash prices. Cash prices for soybeans and corn in east-central Illinois are un-
usually independent of futures prices this spring. Soybean "bids to farmers have
"been running about 5 cents below the nearby futures, whereas costs of moving soy-
beans from farms to Chicago are about 19 cents. Chicago has a large stock of soy-
beans that have been obtained from the northwest. They are rather low in oil
content and high in moisture and so are worth less than. the Illinois soybeans. Ac-
cordingly, Illinois soybeans are held downstate for processing. These are things
that keep local soybean prices from fluctuating with the futures.
There is a very good demand for corn to move south and east by truck.
Truck bids are about two cents a bushel higher than rail bids. Local bids are
higher than Chicago minus freight. This explains why corn prices do not exactly
follow the futures up and down.
Receipts of corn at primary markets have been increasing rapidly during
the past two weeks; for the first time in several months they are above those of a
year ago. Part of the increase is due to more movement off farms, and part to
greater CCC movement. While CCC shipments are now large, the corn shipped is high
in quality and is not being sold. If CCC starts running into off -quality corn, it
will have to be sold. CCC sales for export have increased sharply during the past
three weeks. For example, CCC sold 6.h million bushels during the week ending March 22
compared with 1 million the week before. The question is whether the recent increase
-more-
91 -• : .
K
•
. ' .
.. ...... -
. .- I .
.' • ■• "
'- ■ ■
- •
■. - . ,
■ : . • • ■ " "
: i ■,'.;' - '
•: • .. ■ ■ " ■ ■ ' ' • '
• ' " ■ •' ■ '
,
■
-.
-2-
indicates that CCC sales are going to play an important role in corn prices in the
months ahead or "Will return to the earlier, smaller amounts.
Quite a lot of the corn now "being shelled is very high in moisture. The
"big question is whether this is the best of the high-moisture corn or "whether there
is a lot of high -moisture corn "back in the country that must move soon. Close ob-
servers are divided in their opinions. If increased CCC sales continue and if
there is high-moisture corn that must "be sold, it will "be difficult to hold corn
prices at their current levels. Otherwise, the corn price can strengthen.
Corn futures got a considerable amount of strength in the past week from
reports that the CCC would stop exporting corn and instead ay a direct subsidy to
aorn exporters, as they now do for wheat. A similar change for wheat in 1956 re-
sulted in wheat price increases. There is little reason to think that a similar
development in corn would have a similar effect. The major corn export factor
ahead is the large Argentine corn crop now being harvested.
-30-
HDG:cm
3/28/58
-
■ -■
■
■
-
_ . . ■ ■
.......■■
Farm News
/ERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Too Much Heat Lowers Corn Feeding Value
URBANA — Research studies indicate that drying high-moisture
corn at temperatures over 160 degrees lowers its feeding value.
Although this research is meager and results are not complete-
ly conclusive, the evidence from studies with rats is strong enough to
show that high- temperature drying lowers both energy and protein values
in corn, according to A. L. Neumann, head of the beef cattle division
at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Neumann, speaking to guests at the Grain Dealers Management
Conference here today (Wednesday) , pointed out that the results of rat
nutrition work can be applied directly to swine and poultry feeding.
Ruminants are not so critical in their protein quality needs or in the
form in which their energy is supplied. They can be expected to gain
as fast on high-temperature-dried corn as on crib-dried corn.
However, the elevator operator must satisfy his most critical
customer, Neumann said. For that reason, he recommends drying termper-
atures below 160 degrees, and preferably around 140 degrees, on corn
being dried for sale.
-more-
..
•
■•:.- f£ .:<:,' - r.i ■
-
1 : i ' * , '*,
. .
■
■ i ■
■ . ■ ■
. . : •
••'"•. to •• •:•
j i\k
i ■■■ ■ ' i .• i . :■:
i ■ ■ ■ _ . . ■•■■' '. . : ■ .
■ ' ' . ' I ■ :-- ■ . '■■' :
■ ■ ■:..■ - ;:■ '__.- ; ■; •. -^;". . : .' " > •■;•■.; l:.:
■ '.:'■•■ - ..;.:. ■' '■ . • ; ' :-. ::• '. ",• - :- v-. v .-,.'•.;* .... ,;. • v
. • •-.•. •■ ... ...-■:.•- • ■ ' ' , •. • / t . •.
Add Heat Lowers Corn Feeding Value - 2
In the rat experiments, gains were reduced as much as 32 per-
cent in the rats fed high corn rations in which the corn was dried at
160 degrees. Adding supplemental protein improved the gains. But add-
ing protein to swine and poultry rations would increase the cost of the
ration,
Illinois tests with steers showed that corn dried at 180
degrees was good enough for steer feeding. But corn to be sold must be
acceptable for all kinds of rations. Therefore it should be dried at
comparatively low temperatures.
-30-
RAJrcam
4/1/58
"
.
•
"
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tornado "Season" Is on the Way
URBANA — Tornadoes, the most violent and spectacular storms
produced by nature, are a menace to life and property, say 0. L. Hog-
sett, extension safety specialist at the University of Illinois College
of Agriculture.
Their zone of maximum frequency lies between the Rockies and
the Atlantic. The "season" starts around the first of the year and
lasts until late September.
Knowing what to do when you see a tornado may mean the dif-
ference between life and death, Hogsett says. Here are a few sugges-
tions :
Keep calmi It will not help to get excited. Tornadoes usu-
ally move in a northeasterly direction at about 25 to 40 miles an 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 time permits, electricity and heating appliances should be shut off.
Doors and windows on the north and east, sides of the house may be opened
to reduce damage to the building.
Remember, keep calm and don't take any chances with a tornado.
-30-
0LH:cam
4/1/58
•
'
•
'
:
.
'
'
-
'
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 1958
;ive Guides to Grain Business Success
URBANA — Planning ahead and paying attention to details can
lean the difference between profit and loss in the grain business.
I. J. Mutti, University of Illinois agricultural economist, pointed out.
;o the Grain Dealers Management Conference here today (Thursday) that
[rain firms can identify good management practices in their business
>pe rat ions.
Mutti reported that success in. the grain business is usually
.ndicated by growth in number of products handled and services performed,
net gain in number of customers served, the ability of management to
ittract and retain capable employees and the willingness of the owners
:o maintain and improve their facilities.
The results of good management can be seen by noting differences
imong firms in certain efficiency measures. Mutti showed that wide
iifferences exist among firms in net income, gross returns, labor ex-
cuses and plant expenses per dollar of sales.
Capacity of a grain elevator and the extent to which the space
Ls used has a great, effect on the cost, of storing grain. Costs for
storing at country points vary from 7.3 cents a bushel for a concrete
elevator with 200,000-bushel capacity to 9.7 cents for a 60, 000-bushel
elevator. These costs assume that the storage facility is filled to
75 percent of capacity. When filled to only 45 percent of capacity,
-osts range from 11.5 to 15 cents a bushel for storage units of these
same sizes.
Good management in the grain business, as in other business,
requires effective use of both human and capital resources, Mutti con-
cluded.
-30-
HDG:cam
4/1/58
■
■••
-
■
- ■
'■■ • . "...
.
-■ ■ ■
■
"• : : '
■
..... .' '
■
. , ;. ...
•■
■•*:.' "
■ .
'. ■ ' ' • ■ ' ' ■ ' ■ ' ■ ' • ■ - ■
Y"Z '■ ■ ' "'■ ■
. > J ■■" 101
■ ' •
• ••; . . : ■■-■ ■ : •••■:■
■
FOR RELEASE THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 1958
Strong Livestock Prices Help Grain outlook
URBANA — Favorable livestock prices have put grain prices in
a sounder position than they have been for several years, T. A. Hierony-
mus, University of Illinois farm economist, told the Grain Dealers* Man-
agement Conference here today (Thursday) .
Hieronymus reported that chances are good for using the entire
1957 corn crop during the current marketing year. Even if it is not all
used, the carryover will not be large. However, an increase in the
carryover of barley and grain sorghum is expected.
The economist pointed out that corn is now worth more on the
market than the government loan offered to producers who did not follow
allotments. Although many problems of storage stocks still exist,
Hieronymus expressed optimism concerning feed grain prices in the next
few years.
Soybean prices are now about equal to what the government will
sell its stocks for next summer. Since processors' inventories are ade-
quate, the economist feels that prices are not likely to move higher.
Soybean meal prices have moved up $14 a ton since January,
and record amounts are being used. This rise has been due to favorable
livestock demand, smaller supplies of competing proteins and good ex-
port demand.
Soybean oil disappearance has been good, but exports have
been disappointing compared with those of last year. Enough contracts
have been signed for subsidized government exports to help tighten the
oil market.
-more-
"
■
'
.
!
- '
■
■
:
"
.
\dd Livestock Prices Help Grain - 2
During the current crop year, it seems possible that proces-
sors will crush 335 million bushels, leaving a carryover of about 35
nillion bushels. If oil or meal demand should increase, the crush might
ae even larger. For 1958 the soybean crop could pass the 500-million-
3ushel mark. The meal market appears favorable, but. total oil supplies
are going to bring problems more severe than any yet encountered.
In the wheat market, Hieronymus reported a delicate balance
Between old and new crop wheat during the next two or three months,
tfith a bumper crop in prospect, new crop prices are expected to drop
oelow the loan rate until farmers begin to take advantage of the loan
program. Before the wheat surplus problem can be solved, we ■ re going
to have to decide whether we are going to reduce acreage below the pres-
ent minimum or reduce price to put wheat in line with the feed grains,
Hieronymus emphasized.
The oat price is currently high in relation to that of corn.
With acreage expected to be down and planting delayed, it is likely
to remain that way.
-30-
HDG:cam
4/1/58
•
•
:
.
■
1 .
i
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Better Rations Improve Drylot Swine Feeding
URBANA — Recent tests at the University of Illinois show that
improved drylot rations have taken much of the advantage out of pas-
turing growing pigs.
In reporting to an Illinois Swine Day audience here today
(Wednesday), S. W. Terrill said that gains in these swine tests were
about the same for both pasture and drylot feeding of growing- finishing
pigs.
Pigs on pasture ate 7 percent less feed than pigs in drylot
but needed about the same amount of feed per pound of gain. At a stock-
ing rate of 40 pigs an acre on good alfalfa-ladino pasture, feed-saving
value of the pasture in these tests ran. about $12 an acre. This raises
the question whether using this land for hog pasture is profitable if
such high-profit crops as corn or soybeans could be raised instead.
Another advantage of drylot feeding for growing- finishing
pigs is the chance it offers for a more comfortable environment, espe-
cially during unusually hot or cold weather, than pigs have on pasture.
Results of these experiments, Terrill said, show that swine
growers should feed complete rations throughout the growing- finishing
period on either pasture or drylot for best gains, highest feed effi-
ciency and uniformity of performance.
-30-
RAJtcam
4/1/58
•
•
•
• . .
•
- i
•
'
'• •
• • •
•■
.
.
.
• . ;,v. ■ •- • . it : ■■ •
■ ■ • • . • - . '
■
• '■'.■■ - ■ ■ - - .
' . • . ■ •;'• -
. -•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Pigs Do Best on Complete Rations
URBANA — Pigs on test at the University of Illinois gained
much faster on complete rations than pigs fed free choice.
This was true both in drylot and on pasture, D. E. Becker
told an Illinois Swine Day audience here today (Wednesday) .
Pigs fed complete rations on pasture gained considerably
faster than pigs fed free choice on pasture, Becker said. Pigs fed
free choice on pasture made the most economical gains, but they gained
only 1.11 pounds a day, on the average, compared with 1.40 pounds a day
for the pasture pigs getting a complete ration.
Apparently the big difference between the pigs fed free choice
and those fed a complete ration on pasture was in feed intake, the
swine researcher said, since there was little difference in feed effi-
ciency. Pigs eating free-choice rations on pasture ate more forage.
They needed less grain and supplement for each pound of gain, but they
also gained less than pasture pigs getting a complete ration.
-30-
RAJ:cam
4/1/58
-
■ •
■■ • . . . . ■'
'■• -'■'■
■ ■ ■ '
... : ' I ■
: :, ' :. ■■ ■ 1 9 3 ,J
. • ■ . ■ : . ' • ' ' : . ■ ' ' .• '
■ . , • . ' ■ . - ■ ' •• •
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Trend Is Toward Handling Shelled Corn
URBANA — New machines and equipment emphasize a trend toward
handling shelled corn on the farm,
Frank Andrew, extension agricultural engineer at the Univer-
sity of Illinois , today (Wednesday) told guests at the Grain Dealers
Management Conference at the Illini Union that air-tight storage struc-
tures make handling wet shelled corn practical. And there's also equip-
ment for automatically processing and handling dried shelled corn,
Andrew said.
Of most importance, according to the agricultural engineer,
is that farmers match up harvesting and drying equipment and storage
facilities for highest efficiency in their operation.
Farmers now have a wide choice among heated air batch driers,
supplemental heated bin driers, cold air fan and motor combinations,
wagon driers, recirculating driers and continuous driers. All of these
aim at reducing harvesting losses and providing greater handling ease
and a better product.
The conventional picker still has a place in the picture,
Andrew said, although it may seem crude compared with a self-propelled
combine with corn head attachment to harvest shelled corn. New machines
can cut harvesting losses by early harvest and mechanical drying. But
the cost may be high.
Harvesting with a conventional picker and trailing sheller
gives most flexibility, according to Andrew. The farmer can harvest
his crop either as ear or as shelled corn simply by putting a sheller
between the picker and the wagon.
-30-
RAjscam
4/1/58
■
-
: s
■
■
.
-
'
• • -
■
■
F
"
•.
.
■
■
*.
•■•■..
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contracts Cause Faster Changes in Hog Production
URBANA — Hog farming is rapidly moving toward more volume,
higher efficiency and greater specialization.
That's what George Brauer, Oakford swine grower, told an Illi-
nois Swine Day audience here today (Wednesday) .
This change will occur with or without contract production of
hogs, Brauer said. But contract production will make it more pronounced
and faster.
Contract hog production will probably put the in-and-outers
out of business, the swine grower believes. They won't be able to ad-
just their production because of the high cost of production facilities.
The result will be a leveling-out of the ups and downs of the past, but
at a lower price.
In the long run, hogs will be produced by those who can grow
them the cheapest, Brauer pointed out.
The part of contract production that concerns him most, he
said, is marketing. If contract farming gets big enough, it may work
to the disadvantage of the individual producer in the market, place. He
suggested that growers work through their swine herd improvement asso-
ciations to investigate the situation and then act together for mutual
protection.
J. L. Krider, vice president of Central Soya Company, Ft.
Wayne, Indiana/ presented the feed industry's views on contract swine-
growing to the Swine Day audience.
-more-
-
'
i
,
•
■
•
.
.
'•
.
•
\dd Contracts - 2
It is only natural that the feed industry wants the swine
industry to grow soundly and profitably, Krider said, because it is an
excellent feed market and because lean pork is good for the American
iinner table. The over-all objective should be to produce more and
setter pork cuts from U. S. No. 1 carcasses to help pork regain its
share of the consumer's meat dollar.
In some cases, Krider said, the feed industry might well find
itself aligned in vertical integration with the pork producers bargain-
ing with progressive packers to get realistic prices for U, S. No. 1
meat-type hogs, preferably on a rail grade basis. Perhaps such empha-
sis could lead to greater incentives to produce more U. S. No. 1 porkers.
In the teamwork approach through vertical integration, the
feed industry would prefer to expand hog feed markets on a basis on
which the pork producer, the packer, the banker who invests in these
operations and the feed man can operate profitably, Krider pointed out.
Everyone must realize that a larger, more efficient industry often
means less profit per unit of product but a greater return on labor,
equipment and capital invested. This is the free-enterprise, American
way that has proved successful in food production.
In giving Swine Day guests the packer's viewpoint on contract
hog farming, Frank Hunter, Jr., president of the Hunter Packing Company,
East St. Louis, said that multiple farrowing, with more even supplies
of hogs for market, was one of the reasons packers favored vertical in-
tegration, other factors in the contract picture that cause packers to
favor the system include larger litters and lower mortality rates under
supervised production that would tend to level off market supplies at a
high rate.
Earl Crouse, vice president of Doane Agricultural Service, St.
Louis, led off the afternoon's panel discussion on contract farming in
the hog business by explaining what the system is all about. T. S.
Hamilton, associate director of the Illinois Agricultural Experiment
Station, served as panel moderator.
-30-
RAJtcam
V2/58
' •■
.
'
•'■
.
1
.-■•'■
.
la J
r -■ %
•
. } • v -•
. ■- '
•
- •
■
. i .
•-.-.
• , •
■ . ■
■
.
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Management and Housing Errors Cause Calf Disorders
URBANA — Most disorders of calves are due to errors in manage-
ment, feeding or housing, according to Dr. R. D. Hatch of the Univer-
sity College of Veterinary Medicine.
At times the specific error is hard to determine. Although
it is true that treatment and control of these disorders is a veteri-
nary problem, prevention is more often one of management or engineering.
Calf scours or diarrhea heads the list of disorders affect-
ing young calves. An infectious diarrhea is often prevalent among very
young calves and may be epidemic on certain farms. A dietary type of
diarrhea may also occur in calves two weeks or more old, but it is usu-
ally scattered in its occurrence.
Some cases of diarrhea can be traced to exposure and im-
proper feeding during the first few hours of life. Small, weak calves
are more susceptible than the larger, more rugged animals. Part of
this susceptibility may be associated with a higher vitamin A require-
ment in some breeds.
At least one feeding of colostrum seems essential for the
calf to live. Calves getting no colostrum seldom survive to maturity.
Small, weak calves usually die at an early age, most often of pneumonia,
Stronger calves may survive for two or three months.
Calves showing the first signs of scours are dull, listless
and gaunt- appearing and often have no appetite. They have sunken eyes,
rough hair coats and light-colored feces that later become frothy,
liquid, profuse and fetid.
-more-
■
•
.
•
.
.
:
^dd Calf Disorders - 2
Respiratory and pulse rates are increased, and the temperature
Ls variable. It may go as high as 105 degrees or more. Death is common
Ln about three days, but some animals will survive longer. Mortality
rates are variable and may go to 100 percent. Many surviving animals
ire unprofitable.
Dietary scours may occur in the same herds as the infectious
:ype, but the affected animals are older and the symptoms more chronic,
lost cases can be traced to errors in feeding. Feeding cold milk, feed-
ing too rapidly, feeding excessive quantities at irregular intervals
md feeding from unsanitary utensils are all certain invitations to
:rouble.
Cleanliness in feeding is of utmost importance in guarding
igainst dietary scours. Some herdmen now feed three or four times a
lay in preference to twice a day. Milk fed to calves should be warmed
:o about, body temperature during the winter months.
Any procedure that will cause the calves to eat more slowly
tfill also be helpful. A three-day-old calf should receive about 6 per-
cent of its body weight in milk per day. Calves a week old or more can
2at 8 percent with no trouble.
The treatment used in controlling scours is varied and should
oe carried out by or under the supervision of a veterinarian.
-30-
JERccam
4/2/58
..
.
'
.
..-
•
■
'
.
■
' '
.
■
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Phosdrin Best Insecticide for Grain Sorghum
URBANA — Phosdrin appears to be the best insecticide for grain
sorghums in 1958. This report is based on University of Illinois Col-
lege of Agriculture and Illinois Natural History Survey tests made in
1956 and 1957.
According to W. H. Luckmann, UI and INHS entomologist, these
tests were made to determine the abundance and distribution of insects
known or suspected to damage grain sorghums. In addition, several
insecticides were tested for effectiveness against grain sorghum in-
sects.
The insects were collected and studied at four different
areas — Urbana, Vandalia, Sesser and Ware. Those found included the
corn earworm, sorghum webworm, European corn borer, corn leaf aphid,
chinch bug, fall armyworm and sorghum midge. The distribution and
abundance of these pests in sorghum- growing areas of Illinois indicates
that during 1957 not all of them will cause damage all the time. Some
may be damaging only in specific areas at certain times.
The sorghum webworm was the most common sorghum pest in Illi-
nois during 1957, according to Luckmann. Yet it was seldom found in
sufficient numbers to cause great damage. And the only damaging popu-
lations were in the extreme southern area of the state.
The corn earworm was found throughout the state, although
large numbers were never found. However, past observations show that
it can be a serious pest of grain sorghums,
-more-
■ "
• J
-
■' J
i
:
.
:
,
■
•-
'
■
. . . |
■ .- ■ ■ . rd • "
. . . . . - .,; ■:: •
.
• • ' ■ ' ■
» ■ . ■ ' • • •
'
Add Phosdrin Best Insecticide - 2
The European corn borer did little damage to sorghum in 1957.
But significant damage was observed in 1956. Luckmann says observa-
tions indicate that this insect could be a serious sorghum pest, partic-
ularly during a dry fall.
Corn leaf aphids and chinch bugs were collected at all loca-
tions. The highest populations, and also the most damaging, were found
in Champaign county.
The sorghum midge was not collected in Illinois in 1957. But
this insect was found 15 miles west of Cairo, in southeast Missouri. The
midge can be very destructive to grain sorghum, but it seldom ranges
into southern Illinois.
Control
Seven insecticides were sprayed on plots of grain sorghum at
Ware. These plots, planted in mid-June, were chosen because they con-
tained both sorghum webworms and corn earworms. However, neither insect,
was present in large numbers.
According to Luckmann, of the seven insecticides used, only
phosdrin effectively controlled both insects. Phosdrin was used at
1/4 and 1/2 pound per acre. Effects of the different application rates
did not vary significantly.
On the basis of this test, it appears that phosdrin will give
the most effective control of common grain sorghum insects in 1958.
Luckmann suggests using 1/4 pound per acre for ground applications, and
1/2 pound per acre for aerial applications. Be cautious when handling
phosdrin and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Luckmann emphasizes that the most effective method of control-
ling grain sorghum insects is to plant sorghum as early as possible in
the spring.
-30-
PAC:cam
4/2/58
■■ '
••
'
■
'
: •
r
• •
■
.
.
■
' '
"
, •
•
:
<
i
■ .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ian Ag student Guest Day at Urbana
URBANA — The University of Illinois College of Agriculture is
•lanning a guest day for high school students, their parents and friends
m Saturday, April 19.
Purpose of the guest day, according to Associate Dean H. W.
[annah, is to encourage high school students to attend college and to
ell them of the many opportunities open to College of Agriculture
fraduates.
Guest day will begin with registration and a tour of exhibits
.n the stock pavilion between 8:30 and 9:15 a.m. (CST) . Then the pro-
rram moves to 112 Gregory Hall, where Hannah will speak on "The Chal-
.enge in Agriculture." CD. Smith, assistant dean of the college, will
liscuss housing, loans and scholarships.
Several agriculture students will discuss social life and
:ampus activities and proper attire for campus life and will explain
low students can work their way through college. H. L. Sharp, assistant
:o the dean, will close the morning session with an explanation of en-
rollment procedures, freshman week and registration.
A chicken barbecue will be served at noon in the stock pavil-
Lon. And Charlie Pond's Palaestrum Kids will give a gymnastic exhibi-
:ion.
In the afternoon, Harlan Rigney, a junior in agriculture, from
^reeport, will tell of his first year's experiences at the U. of I.
h D. Buddemeier, professor of farm management, will speak on the topic,
'Fifteen Years From Now." And D. E. Alexander, professor of plant
^reeding, will discuss "Trail Blazing."
In addition, three special programs will be presented for stu-
dents interested in dairy and food technology, agricultural journalism
Dr forestry.
Students interested in attending guest day should send their
names to the Associate Dean's Office, College of Agriculture, Urbana.
-30-
PACrcam
4/2/58
-
• •
1 i •
■ "■
. .
.
•
■
•
■
•
.
■ . • .
•
• ■' ' •
gob
i
.
-
:
.
' • ' • ••
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Allen Kline Dinner speaker at Bankers Agricultural Conference
URBANA — Allen Kline, past president of American Farm Bureau
Federation, will discuss "Farming Today and Tomorrow" during the 12th
annual Illinois Bankers Agricultural Conference at the University of
Illinois on Tuesday and Wednesday, April 15 and 16.
A. T. Anderson, University agricultural economist, who is a
member of the program committee, says that the two-day conference is
expected to attract about 200 bankers, bank directors, farm advisers
and others. The program will emphasize the role that Illinois bankers
play in financing today's highly capitalized agriculture in order to
provide maximum farm earnings.
Sessions Tuesday morning and afternoon and Wednesday morning
will be held in the Law Building auditorium. Tuesday luncheon and din-
ner sessions will be in the Illini Union ballroom.
Speakers will include College of Agriculture staff members
from the departments of agricultural economics, animal science and
agronomy.
M. B. Russell, head of the department of agronomy, will lead
a question-discussion period Tuesday morning on the productive potential
of Illinois soils and soil management systems.
Dean Louis B. Howard of the College of Agriculture and otto
Steffey, president of the Illinois Agricultural Association, headline
the Tuesday luncheon session.
-more-
••
;.
.
:
I
■
-■
:
■ . -' • •
■
.
-
■
■
.
■
•
■
Add Bankers - 2
Financial/ agricultural and land price outlooks and trends
will keynote the Tuesday afternoon session, other subjects will in-
clude credit needs of Illinois farmers and farm management facts for
sound loan decisions. Harold G. Halcrow, head of the department of
agricultural economics, will be question-discussion leader.
In addition to Mr. Kline's address, W. G. Kammlade, chairman
of Illinois 4-H Foundation, will recognize the Illinois bankers' con-
tributions to the 4-H Foundation during the dinner session. Music will
be furnished by the University of Illinois Women's Glee Club.
Financial problems faced by cattle and hog feeder operators
will be discussed Wednesday morning, followed by a question-discussion
period led by H. M. Scott, acting head of the department of animal
science. The final session will be concluded by a four-member panel
of bankers, who will show how banks handle different types of farm
loans.
The conference is conducted by the College of Agriculture in
cooperation with the Illinois Bankers Association. Additional informa-
tion may be obtained from the Conference Supervisor, 116c Illini Hall,
Champaign.
-30-
RVM: cam
4/2/58
!
-
■
i
■ ■
i
.
■
.
1
.
- ■
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Four Illinois Counties Modified-Certif ied Bovine Brucellosis Free
URBANA — Perry, vermilion, Ford and Kankakee are the first
counties in Illinois to qualify as modified-certif ied bovine
brucellosis-free areas.
Certification was made by the chief, Animal Disease Eradica-
tion Division, Agricultural Research Service, Springfield, Illinois.
Each county has been certified for three years from the date of certi-
fication. Perry county was certified on January 7, 1958, Vermilion on
January 28, Kankakee on February 3 and Ford on February 20.
An area is certified when tests show that the infection rate
has been reduced to not more than one percent of the cattle and five
percent of the herds. Nine states, Puerto Rico and 4S4 counties in 27
other states are now certified.
Brucellosis (Bang's disease) presents a dual threat. It
causes abortion, sterility and reduced milk production in cattle. It
costs Illinois farmers an estimated $3 million loss annually in milk
and meat. It can also infect human beings, causing a long, incapac-
itating illness known as undulant fever. It attacks swine, too, caus-
ing abortion and bone damage.
Forty-nine Illinois counties are now enrolled in the compul-
sory testing or area program. Dr. G. T. Woods of the University of
Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine says that, attaining a modified
brucellosis-free status is only the first phase in the over-all eradi-
cation program. As long as there is even a small percentage of infec-
tion, the danger of spread and increase of the disease remains.
-30-
JERtcam
4/2/58
'
■
'
•■■. ■
-
•
'
i
■
•
.
, s
- • ' •
■
-
- ' :
i
•
■
■
f
'
.
'
:
.
...
.
Farm News
fERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sell Cull Dairy Cows This Spring
URBANA — Neither the price outlook for lower grades of beef
nor that for dairy products appears to warrant holding unprofitable
dairy cows this spring, says J. G. Cash, extension dairy specialist at
the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Culling unprofitable cows will increase earnings and will
also take surplus milk off the market, Cash points out#
On most farms it will pay to cull, as unprofitable, cows of
the higher testing breeds that produce less than 5,000 pounds of milk
a year and cows of the lower testing breeds that produce less than
7,500 pounds.
-30-
RAJrcm
4/4/58
-
■-
-
.
•
^ .
■
.
.
.
,
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Store Trees Until Planting Conditions Are Right
DIXON SPRINGS — Foresters agree that the way many farmers
handle forest trees before planting practically guarantees their fail-
ure.
Proper handling and storage of planting stock are just as
important as proper planting, says Robert Nelson, extension forester
at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment Station,
Many landowners this spring will be faced with soil that is
too wet to plant trees when their nursery stock arrives, Nelson believes.
If that's the case, the trees will need to be properly stored to keep
them alive and healthy until they can be planted.
Trees that can be planted within one or two days after they
arrive may be left in their packing containers and put in a cool, shady
spot so that they won't dry out, A cool basement is an excellent place.
If, however, the trees will have to be held for several days, they
should either be heeled in or put in cold storage, Nelson says.
An easy way to heel in nursery stock is to open a furrow
with a plow. Cut the strings around each bundle of trees and put them
along the sides of the furrow. Cover the roots with dirt and pack it
tightly. Do not leave any roots exposed.
After heeling in, water the trench thoroughly and put up a
board or burlap shade if the trench is not in a shady place.
Cold storage works well for large numbers of trees to be held
for several days before planting. Storage should be dry and free from
any chemical that might harm the trees. Temperature range should be
from 34 to 38 degrees, but the trees should not be allowed to freeze.
-30-
RAJtcm
4/4/58
.
■
"
'
I ,
■
-
.
•
i ■•
FOE IMMEDIATE EELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Strawberries in the Home Garden
by Chester Zych
Fruit Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA- -Strawberries are one of the tastiest fruits that can be grown in
home gardens. And because they're rich in vitamin C, they are valuable in the diet.
In fact, 20 to 30 strawberries will supply the daily requirement for vitamin C.
Raising good strawberries begins with site selection. Strawberry beds
should have good air and water drainage, with no danger of frost pockets. In north-
ern and central Illinois, a north or northeast slope is best because it helps pre-
vent too early blossoming.
The soil should be at least moderately fertile, easily pulverized and
high in organic matter. Soil texture is usually better if a clean- cultivated or
heavy cover crop precedes the berry plants. It's also a good idea to spade or plow
the soil in the fall or early spring before the plants are set. This helps to im-
prove the physical condition of the soil.
Before planting in the spring, work well-rotted manure into the soil. Use
about l/2 bushel for each square yard. Non-decomposed material should be worked in
during the fall.
If manure is not available, use a complete fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10
analysis. The recommended rate is about three pounds for every 100 feet of row.
Apply in a 6ix-inch strip and work into the top six inches of soil. Two weeks after
setting the plants, side-dress with two to three pounds of a 10-6-** fertilizer for
every 100 feet of row.
Selecting a variety or varieties may present a problem because there are
so many. And one variety may grow well for your neighbor but fail completely in
-more-
.
.
■
'.
.
.
.
-2-
your garden. The best policy is to buy, from reliable nurserymen, healthy, true-to-
name varieties that are adapted to Illinois.
Premier is a good early ripening and frost-resistant variety. Dunlap and
Vermilion are somewhat higher in quality and ripen several days after Premier.
Catskill, a productive, good-quality variety, ripens in mid-season. Tennessee Beauty
is a good, late-maturing variety. All of these varieties are satisfactory for eat-
ing fresh, for canning and for quick-freezing.
Set plants as soon as the ground can be worked. Space rows about three
feet apart for hand cultivation. Plants should be 18 to 2k inches apart in the row.
To set plants, work a trowel or spade back and forth to make V-shaped holes. Place
the plants in these holes with the roots spread out fan- shaped and the crowns slightly
above ground level. Then press the soil firmly against the roots to fill in air
pockets. Remove the largest leaves at planting time. Also pinch off any blossoms
that appear during the first growing season.
Frequent but shallow cultivation is needed throughout the growing season.
Cultivation controls weeds and keeps the soil loose for easier establishment of run-
ners.
When runners appear, place the first ones along the row so that they'll
root and form a mat 20 to 2k inches wide. Individual plants will root six to nine
inches apart. Encourage rooting by putting loose soil on the runners to hold them
in place. As soon as the row is sufficiently filled, cut out the excess runners
to prevent crowding and poor growth of the first-rooted runners.
Watering the strawberry patch during drouth periods will help to form bet-
ter runner plants the first year. And after renovation the second year, watering
will increase the quality of berries.
-more-
...
. :
.• • • ..•.-. ,: -
• . . . . , ' . : . r j
• • . - • "
.••-.■
■ ■ \ ■ ■ : ' ■ . • ■•
.:■:.- • . ■ . • • . . .
• . . •'• ■■ . : ■' : . • "
... . • . . . ■ . ^
■..■■■ .'•".•• t V
. • ■ /■• ••••' »;'■"•.;■•'•••■.'•
; _ .. .. . . . - . . r . j ...
' . • ■ . . ' • " ■
'. .. ' ■
■- ■ .-
-3-
For spraying and dusting information, write to the Department of Horti-
culture, Mumford Hall, Urbana, for a copy of Fruit Leaflet No. 1.
Home gardeners with established strawberry beds should begin renovation
as soon as new leaf growth begins in the spring. Shake up the mulch and remove some
that is directly over the plants to the middle of the row. Let the plants grow up
through the rest. If frost threatens, cover them temporarily.
-30-
PAC:cam
W58
■ ■ ' •
• . -. • '
... ..-..■.. ; ■
• .■ ■ i
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the "Week ending April k, 1958)
Corn and Soybeans Stronger; Large Wheat Crop in Prospect
URBANA— Corn prices moved up this past week as the government announced
that a corn export subsidy like that for wheat would be put into effect. T. A.
Hieronymus, University of Illinois grain marketing staff, reports that the grain
trade expects that this move could stop 85 percent of all government corn sales for
export.
This vould mean that free stocks of corn at Chicago would decline as they
are drawn out for export. Chicago stocks have been increasing recently, but they
are still below those of a year ago.
Whether this plan will work remains to be seen, Hieronymus points out.
Corn exports are due to decline at this time of year. The Argentine harvest, now
in progress, is larger than the one last year.
Soybean prices gained as a result of a stronger market for soybean meal.
Spain also bought soybean oil at the end of the week. Soybean oil is in a potentially
bullish position. Domestic consumption is above last year. Combined stocks of
soybean oil and cottonseed oil are down. Dollar exports are running quite large.
The amount of oil scheduled for sale under Public Law h80 for foreign currency is
large enough to tighten the soybean oil market.
So far little oil has been bought under this subsidy program. But if ex-
ports materialize, crush of soybeans will have to stay high to fill the demand.
With each appraisal, the potential soybean carryover goes down. Stock reports to
be issued in the next three weeks will clarify this situation.
-more-
.
■
'
•
- . - ' • : *
• ' • ; v.-
?j
■ ■ ■ . .
' ■ ■
• ■ ■ .
- • .
....
■
•
.
■'
fc
•
■
-2-
The new wheat crop is in excellent condition and a 1.2-billion-bushel crop
seems likely. Since a large acreage has been planted that is not eligible for loan,
July futures prices may decline as much as 10 cents below the loan price, as they
have in years when the crop was large. In this event farm prices this summer could
drop to a low of $1.50 to $1.60. The President's veto of the farm support freeze
bill weakened new crop wheat prices moderately.
-30-
HDGrcm
W58
• . .. • :
. • ■
■
i
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Urges Bankers Understand Changing Agriculture
URBANA — An Illinois banker today urged his fellow bankers to
develop a complete understanding of changes taking place in agriculture,
I* Frank Green vice-president of the Commercial National Bank
of Peoria and chairman of the Illinois Bankers' Agricultural Committee/
reported that to help bankers develop this understanding, the Illinois
Bankers Association and the College of Agriculture has arranged its 12th
annual Agricultural Credit Conference, April 15-16 at the University of
Illinois.
A. T. Anderson, agricultural credit specialist at the Uni-
versity of Illinois, reports that a full program has been arranged es-
pecially for the farm loan officers and those dealing with farm custom-
ers.
Topics on the two day program include soil management, finan-
cial, agricultural and land price outlook, changing credit needs, farm
management facts for sound loan decisions, revolution in the hog busi-
ness, future for cattle feeders, and experiences of bankers in making
sound farm loans.
-more-
.
■ .
.
■
■ •
- ■
'
. '
-
'
■
Add Changing Agriculture - 2
Allen Kline, former president of the American Farm Bureau
Federation will discuss farming today and tomorrow at the Tuesday eve-
ning banquet.
All bankers interested in attending are urged to send their
luncheon and dinner reservations for Tuesday, April 15 to Conference
Supervisor, 116c Illini Hall, Champaign.
-30-
HDG:cam
4/8/58
'
' ; ■ ■ '. ': •.
■
■
•■ ■ -
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farmers Help Find Johnson Grass Control
MOUNDS — For years Johnson grass has been the most serious
weed that farmers in southern Illinois have had on their farms. But
this year these farmers can attack this pest with a proven weapon that
can destroy it.
Controlling Johnson grass can mean many thousands of dollars
extra income from higher crop yields. For in past years this weed has
slashed corn yields in the fertile river bottomlands to a few bushels an
acre and has been even harder on soybeans.
Much of the credit for finding a successful control of Johnson
grass should go to a group of farmers here in Alexander and Pulaski
counties. About three years ago under the leadership of their farm
adviser Les Broom, farmers signed petitions asking the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture to develop a Johnson grass control pro-
gram. Fred Slife, agronomist who had specialized in weed control came
to the area and helped set up research plots to see if this problem
could be solved.
During the past three years about 12 farmers have cooperated
in offering their land for demonstration and experimental control work.
Donald Smith/ Mounds, and Donald Turner, Cairo/have probably spent the
most time and effort on this project.
Even though the first and second year did not produce a com-
pletely successful control program they did not give up. They continued
-more-
•
'
-
.
Add Johnson Grass Control - 2
to cooperate during 1957 when the most successful control methods were
worked out. Smith and Turner have each turned over 30 to 40 acres of
their land each year to this research program.
The 1957 tests results worked out so well that Farm Adviser
Broom arranged a field day so that all farmers in the area with Johnson
grass problems could see the successful control on these two farms.
All farmers in the area were invited. More than 200 people
came out to see the results of the program, some driving up to 200
miles to get there. At least five states were represented.
The successful program consists of letting the Johnson grass
get up to about 12 inches tall, then applying 10 pounds of Dowpon in
30 gallons of water on each acre. About one week later this is plowed
under. After three weeks, the soil is safe for planting corn or soy-
beans.
On fields where wheat or other winter grain is grown, a
slightly different treatment has been worked out. After harvest, the
Johnson grass is left to grow for 10 days to two weeks. Then the weedy
area is chopped with a stalk cutter. After the Johnson grass has grown
12 to 18 inches high again, it is treated with 8 pounds of Dowpon in
30 gallons of water per acre. These treated areas can be fall plowed
three or four weeks after treatment.
Les Broom and the farmers of Pulaski-Alexander counties have
also had support from local businessmen. The Daily Cairo Citizen and
other local newspapers in the area have given wide coverage to the
Johnson grass research program. Mr. Charles Knote of the Cape Chemical
-more-
• . ■ '. . .-' I
. - ■ •
- . ; • ■ S
....■■•
.
.
i pc-i
■ ' ; . ■
■
.... - .- . .
•.. . -. ' ■
.. . •
■ ■ " : '
o|
Add Johnson Grass Control - 3
Company at Cape Girardeau, Missouri has donated the chemicals and
helped supervise their application,
Fred Slife who has represented the University of Illinois in
this project sums up the whole experience this way, "This is a fine ex-
ample of how a group of farmers working with their farm adviser have
recognized a problem, have set out to get something accomplished and
produced results that will greatly benefit all farmers who have Johnson
jrass on their farms."
-30-
3DG:cam
i/8/58
I IJ . ■ •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plan Gibberellin Tests to Check Soybean Harvest Losses
URBANA — Soybean research workers in five states, Canada and
Sweden will carry out tests this summer to see if gibberellin will make
it possible to save more soybeans at harvest,
R. W. Howell, plant physiologist at the U. S. Regional Soy-
bean Laboratory at the University of Illinois, reports that tests were
made with gibberellin on soybeans in 1957, The Illinois scientists
found only minor yield differences. But where soybean seed was treated
with three grams of this plant hormone per acre, the distance from the
ground to the first node of the plant was 2 1/4 inches greater. This
distance might be enough to save many more beans from the lower part of
the plant that are now often lost in combining.
Observations have shown that in harvested bean fields as much
as three bushels of beans and two bushels of uncombined pods are left
scattered on the ground or on the stubble of the plants. Saving the
beans from just one more pod per plant would add up to two bushels or
more an acre,
Gibberellin treated seed will be planted in Illinois, North
Carolina, South Carolina, Mississippi, Minnesota, Manitoba (Canada) and
Sweden this spring. Soil treatments at planting will also be tried in
Illinois. All plots will be large enough so that they can be harvested
with a regular combine. Normal varieties grown at these locations will
be used in the tests.
-more-
. ' .•
• . .' ' '.„..•
■ ' • ■ ■: .,■■•■.
.... . .
. .. ■ • • • .
..:-,. ' ' . . ... ' ' .
..
• • . -.1- '• ■' ! •' - ' " - ■ ' ' '• '•• : '
... ■ ; ;•-.•....'., '. ' '
; . .... ' .. - •': ■ : '. . .
• : • '.:,•:.
■ -.. ! )Q . •■ L:5;.--. •.. . :' ' ; ■ . ' :
. v ■ : '- ■ " ;
Add Plan Gibberellin Tests - 2
Howell also reports that they are investigating further the
effects of earlier emergence when soybeans are treated with gibberellin.
This may have some advantage in areas where farmers want to grow more
than one crop during a season or under cool soil temperature conditions.
Gibberellin is a plant hormone produced by a fungus that
grows on rice and other crops. It has produced unusual growth stimula-
tion on various crops. This research may determine if it has any prac-
tical use for soybeans.
-30-
HDGtcam
4/8/58
..... . g
... -• ..:..-■■.
- ■ ••
■
■ -
■
"J
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nitrogen Extends Life of Grass Pastures
DIXON SPRINGS — Extra nitrogen can extend the time for grass
pastures to be renovated after the legumes have disappeared.
Annual applications of phosphate and potash also will increase
yields where soil tests indicate a need, points out George McKibben,
crops and soils specialist at the University of Illinois Dixon Springs
Experiment Station.
Last year at the station, grass pastures treated with 300
pounds of ammonium nitrate in March yielded 10,140 pounds of dry mat-
ter to the acre as compared with 8, 325 pounds on similar pastures with-
out nitrogen treatment.
These pastures were first renovated in 1947 and again in
1954 when they were seeded with combinations of grass, alfalfa and
ladino clover. Lime and rock phosphate were applied in 1947 according
to soil test, and rock phosphate and superphosphate were topdressed on
all fields through 1954.
When these fields were renovated in 1954, two tons of lime-
stone and from 1,000 to 2,000 pounds of rock phosphate plus 245 pounds
of 4-16-16 mixed fertilizer were applied at seeding time, McKibben re-
ports.
Grazing animals ate 37.65 pounds of dry matter for each pound",
of gain on the nitrated grass from April 9 through September 30 last
year. This compares with 22.59 pounds of dry matter for each pound of
gain on grass- legume mixtures from May 8 through September 30.
Of the original legume-grass mixtures seeded to these plots
in 1954, bluegrass, fescue, orchard grass and bromegrass persisted the
best in that order through 1957, McKibben says.
-30-
RAjrcam
. ..
• . ■ .
. -
■ '
-
• ' ■ ■ - _ .
i . . : : .: . .
■ .'.■■: ■
r
" . ■ ' : 01
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Make the Change to Pasture Cautiously
URBANA — Sudden switch to spring pasture can cause bloat or
other digestive upsets in dairy cows.
G. W. Harpestad, extension dairy specialist at the University
of Illinois College of Agriculture, suggests feeding the usual ration
of roughage and grain mixture for the first 10 days cows are on spring
pasture to help prevent these troubles.
Another help to prevent bloat, Harpestad says, is to keep dry
hay available to the herd and leave them on pasture once they have been
turned out. Never turn the cows out on legume pastures wet with rain or
dew, or you may be asking for bloat trouble. Even with all the precau-
tions you take, it's a good idea to watch the cows closely on spring
pastures so that you can act promptly if any of the cows bloat.
Rapidly growing pasture is one of the most ideal feeds for
dairy cows, the dairy specialist says. Only high-producing cows need
additional grain on high-quality, lush pasture. Holstein, Brown Swiss
and Ayrshire cows need a pound of grain added for each three pounds of
milk over 30 pounds. Feed Guernseys and Jerseys a pound of grain for
each 2 1/2 pounds of milk over 20 pounds that they produce.
Since rapidly growing pasture is rich in protein, the grain
mixture may consist entirely of such farm-grown grains as corn and oats.
As the pasture gets more mature later in the season, amount of grain
must be increased and protein supplement added to keep production up.
-30-
RAJrcam
4/8/58
:' i
' ' ' ■
• ! " • ■'■
-. :■ .
'
■
. ■ • .
. I
■
•
•
•
'
• • • -
-
' . ' -
. "
1
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Weed Control Most Important Garden Problem
by N. F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
Some people think that vegetable gardens will grow and produce by themselves
nee the seed is planted. But planting the seed is only the beginning. Vegetable
gardens require constant care and production from weather, insects and diseases.
About the most important garden problem is weed control. Weeds choke out
vegetable plants and compete with them for moisture and food. The easiest way to
control weeds is to prevent them from seeding. This requires cultivation or hoeing
about once a week, of both planted and implanted areas. Hand-weeding is necessary
to control weeds in the rows. Good cultivation should result in a shallow, level
layer of loose soil on the surface.
At present, the use of chemicals to control weeds in the home vegetable
garden is not recommended. None has been developed which can be applied on a wide
assortment of crops without severe damage to some.
Crowded plants is another garden problem. Such plants will not produce
well, particularly if moisture or fertility is lacking. When thinning is necessary,
do it while the plants are small. This prevents injuring those not removed and pro-
vides room for their development.
Corn vine and root crops cannot be transplanted because it injures them
too severely. Plants that can be removed may be used to fill in empty spaces or
even to set additional rows. But they must be small and must be handled carefully.
Some garden crops, such as tomatoes and pole beans, should be staked but
this requires considerable time and work. In small gardens, staking tomatoes permits
closer spacing and increases yield per unit of area. However, yield per plant is
reduced .
-more-
-
■ "
■ •■.:•■. . . ■;■
i . • • . -■ . ■ - . . ■ • . ' • . • .
' "••■.'•. . . . .' . >
• '•' ■ ; cxc .. ' . '_ . -
- ■
'•'■■'. . . ': ' • . ,• •
• • ■'•'■ • '-' .
• ] ' - ■ ;
• • • • .
' ,'..:'•■ '.-■: - ■ ■ ... . "■:.■.
-' • . '• ■ . .., ■ ■ \\ .. ■
: . • . • ■'■:■'':.'.;.■ ■•..,... . . ..
-2-
Many questions arise concerning the use of straw or paper mulch to control
weeds and conserve moisture. For the average gardener, paper mulch is impractical
"because it is hard to lay and hold in place. Its cost is also impractical.
Straw mulching may he helpful under certain conditions and for certain
crops grown on well-drained soil. But it will not entirely eliminate weeds and
those that grow must be removed by hand.
These garden problems are discussed in the 195$ Illinois Garden Guide.
The Guide also covers such items as soil treatment, planting dates for vegetable
crops in different sections of Illinois, correct fertilization procedures, insect
and disease control.
You can get a copy of the Garden Guide by writing to the College of
Agriculture, Mumford Hall, Urbana.
-30-
PAC:cm
1/8/58
. . . ■ -■■..■-•'.•
■• • •
... • ' ' • ' •
.....
•,■'■,
. . ■
. ■
• • • :
■ ■ ■ ' ' ' -
.-. bXtt , N
........ . : -. ' ■ . -'••
■
■ ■. '■
.
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
"Careers in Agriculture" Booklet Just Completed
URBANA — A booklet entitled "Careers in Agriculture" has been
recently printed by the University of Illinois Press, Prepared by the
College of Agriculture, the booklet is designed for high school stu-
dents planning to attend the University and study some phase of agri-
culture.
The booklet explains and discusses the vast opportunities in
the exciting field of agriculture, A sampling of these fields includes
plant science, animal science, economics, veterinary medicine, farming,
communications and education. Each year thousands of college graduates
are needed to fill positions in these and other fields.
High school preparation necessary for a college education
is also included in the booklet. And the more than 300 courses offered
by the University of Illinois College of Agriculture are described.
The booklet contains descriptions of College of Agriculture
buildings, equipment and farms, opportunities for personal and social
development at the University are covered as well as tuition, fees,
scholarships and enrollment procedures.
You can get a copy of the booklet by writing to the Associate
Deans' Office, Mumford Hall, Urbana.
-30-
PACrcam
V9/58
•
■■ •
'
i
■
; - ' ■ ■ .
.... -
.
'
'
- .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Gives Guides for Figuring Needed Farm Income
URBANA — Farmers should aim for a total gross income about
double the net earnings they want to make. This is what D. F. Wilken,
University of Illinois farm management specialist, told the Illinois
Bankers Agricultural Conference this week.
Gross income is considered the total value of crops and live-
stock sold less the cost of any purchased feed and livestock. Net
earnings are what a farmer has left to pay interest, debts, and income
taxes, and to use for savings and family living.
Wilken explained his views this way. If an average farmer
on a 200-acre farm needs $6,000 to provide for his living, savings,
income taxes, interest and debt payments, he should aim for a gross
income of about $12,000 or $60 an acre.
He pointed out that a 200-acre farm with about half the crop
land in corn and the rest in oats and hay will average about $50 an
acre.
If their farm doesn't seem likely to make the needed income,
farmers have three choices. They can change their cropping plans, or
add livestock to increase size of business, or improve their efficiency,
On rented farms, Wilken emphasized that income desired by the
land owner must also be figured. In planning the size of business,
income needs of both tenant and landlord must be added together.
-more-
-
■ .
-
v
-
Add Figuring Farm Income - 2
The farm management specialist pointed out that corn is the
most profitable crop for Illinois farmers. From 1951-56, total income
from corn averaged $77 an acre. Soybeans averaged $64 an acre, wheat
$54, mixed hay $32, and oats $23.
Therefore, farmers who want to increase their farm earnings
must plan to put as much of their land in the higher profit crops as
practical if they are to get the highest possible income, Wilken con-
cluded.
-30-
HDGrcam
4/9/58
. ...
■ -
..."
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Calf Pneumonia Often Occurs With Scours
URBANA — Calf pneumonia frequently occurs at the same time and
in the same barns as scours, according to Dr. R. D. Hatch of the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine,
Many times an animal recovers from scours and dies because
he is run down when pneumonia strikes . Much calf pneumonia is also
caused by improper housing.
One of the most perplexing problems of calf pneumonia is that
of recurring attacks. Many cases appear to respond to treatment only
to develop further symptoms in a few days. Mortality rates increase
with the number of recurrences.
Signs of pneumonia include heaving flanks, excessive mucous
around the nostrils, temperature rise, respiratory sounds (varying with
the degree of severity in each case) , and refusal to eat.
Most animals are reluctant to move, yet often show surprising
vigor when being treated. Treatment should begin at the first sign of
pneumonia.
Housing is far more important than medication in the control
of calf pneumonia. Dry, well-bedded, and well-ventilated quarters are
essential. Individual pens and adequate exhaust fans will easily repay
their cost in this case.
Training and experience of the veterinarian can help prevent
a large portion of unnecessary calf losses. Much of the success of con-
trol measures for calf pneumonia depends on strict compliance with
proved practices.
-30-
JERtcam
4/9/58
.
.
■
•
'
"
•
: . ..
: . • .
:
I
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Set Leisurecraft Camp for May 12-16
URBANA — Dates for 1958 Leisurecraft and Counseling Camp have
been set for May 12-16 at the state 4-H Memorial Camp near Monticello.
Miss Clareta Walker, extension specialist in family living at
the University of Illinois and camp chairman, says that leadership
training emphasis in the program this year will be concerned with lei-
suretime activities.
Staff members will include Mrs. H. H. Maddox, Mt. Pulaski,
leather work; Ray Olson, Moline, games, square and folk dancing? the
Handicrafters, Waupun, Wisconsin, handicraft; and Mrs. Lillian Fishel,
Tolono, and Edith Haight, Charleston, camp craft. Mrs. Lester Whiting,
Mahomet; Howard Baker, Toulon; and Harvey Gaither, Lacon, will be on
the staff to teach campers how to find and polish stones.
Attendance is limited to 120, Miss Walker points out. Adult
leaders from churches, recreation staffs, 4-H Clubs, Boy and Girl Scouts,
handicapped persons programs, the Illinois Youth Commission and the
Cooperative Extension service are especially invited to attend. Any-
one else interested in leadership training for leisuretime activities
is also invited.
Costs include $10 registration fee and $17.50 for meals and
lodging. Husbands and wives may attend by paying only one registration
fee. Miss Walker is accepting advance registrations now. See your
county farm adviser or home adviser for a registration card.
-30-
RAJtcam
4/9/58
.
■
■
■ ■
'
•
'
•'• ':'
- •-
■•■•■■
■ . ■ :
-
tvnJ
■
■
■
'
krm
Radio News
'ERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
?arm Safety Field Day at Knoxville, June 13
URBANA — Farm Safety Field Day for the northern, half of the
state has been scheduled for Knoxville on Friday, June 13, Another
Dne for the southern part of the state will be scheduled later in the
^ear.
Main objective of Safety Field Day is to inform persons in-
terested in farm safety about current safety problems, says 0. L.
tfogsett, extension safety specialist at the University of Illinois Col-
lege of Agriculture. The program includes demonstrations, exhibits and
other safety materials that can be adapted for use in local areas.
Ten nominations have been submitted for Illinois Rural Safety
Council 1958 awards, Hogsett reports. They are the Tonica FFA chapter;
Geneseo FFA chapter; Kent Crawford, Patoka FFA member; Ronald Handke,
Manito FFA member; Don Weidel, Sterling FFA member; Joe Leeper, Mt.
Auburn FFA member; Floyd Smith, Marion county farm adviser; Salem;
E. E. Golden, DeKalb county farm adviser, DeKalb; Marion County Safety
Council, Salem; and Charles Brown, Brown Implement Company, Erie.
These Illinois Rural Safety Council awards are not competitive,
Hogsett explains. They are awarded to nominees who the Council be-
lieves have done outstanding work in the field of farm and home safety.
The awards will be acknowledged during the Field Day programs.
RAJ: cm
4/11/58
-30-
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Introduce Bill for Commission on Country Life
URBANA — Senators Ralph Flanders of Vermont and John Sherman
Cooper of Kentucky and Congressman Brooks Hays of Arkansas have intro-
duced a bill in Congress calling for a second Presidential Commission
on Country Life.
D. E. Lindstrom, University of Illinois rural sociologist,
points out that the bill is especially appropriate at this time because
it marks the 50th anniversary of the appointment of the first Commission
on Country Life by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907,
Lindstrom believes that a second Commission is greatly needed.
It would make a thorough study to determine effects of the changing
picture in American country life today. During the last half-century,
farmers have become much more a minority in the total population.
People are tending to move into rural areas and build their homes. In-
dustrial development and transportation have created many changes in
rural living.
The proposed Commission on Country Life would make a thorough
study for the various influences in rural life and how schools, adult
education agencies, churches, farm organizations, and government agencies
are meeting the needs of rural people.
The Commission could lay the groundwork for national policies
and programs for rural life that would be just as significant as those
accomplished by the first Commission, These included legislation that
established the Agricultural Extension Service, the Smith-Hughes voca-
tional agriculture training program in high schools, research programs
-more-
■•-
s
.
V
■
■
-
•
'
.
• •
'
■
...
!
. ■ .
i : ■ ■ ,
f
■
■
.
■
.
.
-
•■
.
. .
.
^dd Commission on Country Life - 2
In agricultural economics and rural sociology. The American Country
Life Association was organized in 1919 to study problems of country
Life and aid in rural improvement.
The bill calls for the creation of a 25-man Commission, 15
appointed by the President, 5 from the Senate, and 5 from the House.
Phe 15 would be authorities in all phases of public life concerned with
zountry living. They would conduct studies for two years, and make broad
recommendations for total development of country life looking toward
bhe needs of the next 50 years.
Lindstrom urges all people interested in country life to write
their congressmen to support this bill.
-30-
IDG: cm
1/11/58
-
..
■
'
■.-.'.•'
- * '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending April 11, 195$)
URBANA — Farmers are holding more feed grains and soybeans than a year ago,
according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain marketing staff.
However, this report of farm stocks just released by the USDA does not enable us to
estimate total feed grain and soybean use, he points out.
Corn use will probably run about 150 million bushels less than 1957 pro-
duction. So this will mean that much addition to total carryover October 1.
With the smaller amount going into loan, it appears we will have an abundant supply
of free corn this summer. This will even be true if CCC maintains its policy of
low corn sales.
Corn price gains during the past week can be explained mainly by small
market receipts and the anticipated effect of the corn export subsidy program.
Soybean prices moved up during this past week because meal prices went
up. Soybean stocks on farms were 116 million bushels compared to 114.5 million
last year.
Reports of total stocks will be released April 2k, But it appears that
April 1 figures will be slightly less than many expected on January 1, or the 1957
crop size would indicate.
Soybean supplies are expected to be large enough, however, so that the
government resale price this summer will dominate the market. Current prices are
above this level.
The new winter wheat crop is now estimated at 96k million bushels — much
larger than last year. The winter wheat crop alone is large enough to meet all our
milling, export, and feed needs for next year. Yet the spring wheat crop will prob-
ably add another 25O million bushels to our supply.
-more-
■ ' ' B 3 • . :
'•'.'. ' ' ' . ■. . :
'■
'.'••■" ' •
• - .-.•'. . • I" J
• . ■ .- ■ ■ ■■
■
■
■ ■ •
■ ■ ■ • . ' ■•■
• -
-2-
The market generally expected a big crop estimate so it had little effect
on prices. Trade observers are watching political developments closely as a guide
to wheat price trends.
I "30"
HDG:cm
tyn/58
• ' - . •. •:■■-.■
- • -
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plan Pastures to Get Plenty of Summer Forage
URBANA — Alternate grazing systems help to produce more milk
at lower cost,
Leo Fryman, extension dairy specialist at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture, says that this system insures plenty
of succulent green grass and legumes. And there's a direct connection
between the amount of forage cows eat and their milk production.
Divide your pastures into fields the size your herd will
graze off in about a week, Fryman suggests. Forage yields can be as
much as 15 to 25 percent higher in alternate grazing systems than in
continuous grazing on the same pastures.
Higher yields under alternate grazing may give surplus forage
early in the pasture season, the dairy specialist points out. But it
can be put into silage or hay to be fed later in the summer when hot
weather cuts into pasture yields,
| -30-
RAJ: cm
4/15/58
'
' !
• ■ ■ •■
- e ■ .
.
'
;
■
.
r
; ■ ■
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lime, Phosphate, Potash Bring Higher Corn Yields
DIXON SPRINGS — Limestone, phosphate and potash each contrib-
uted its share toward raising 1957 corn yields on Dixon Springs Experi-
ment Station plots from 8 to 75 bushels an acre.
Lowest yield of only 8 bushels an acre was on untreated land,
says Lee Gard, University of Illinois Station researcher.
Plots treated only with limestone have had 8 tons an acre
applied over the past 20 years. The 1957 corn yield on these plots was
37 bushels an acre. This 29-bushel an acre increase for limestone alone
resulted from an annual cost of only $1.30 an acre, Gard points out.
Annual addition of 100 pounds of muriate of potash on limed
land at a cost of $2.50 increased corn yields another 13 bushels for a
yield of 50 bushels an acre.
Putting on 100 pounds of 20% superphosphate at a cost of $2 an
acre increased corn yields on limed land 33 bushels for a total yield
of 70 bushels an acre.
Last year's corn yield was 75 bushels an acre where limestone,
phosphate and potash were added together at an annual fertility cost of
$5.80 an acre.
Most farmers will need a corn yield of at least 40 to 50
bushels an acre to "break even" under today's high costs of production,
Gard believes. Lime alone is essential, he points out, but a combina-
tion works out best in most cases.
-more-
.
■
Add Corn Yields - 2
Plots in this test carried a four-year rotation of corn,
wheat and two years of alfalfa-bromegrass. No nitrogen was added other
than that supplied by the legume. During years of adequate moisture,
farmers can boost corn yields even higher by adding nitrogen in their
fertility program, the researcher says.
-30-
RAJ:Cm
4/15/58
'
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Water systems Can Help Fight Fires
URBANA — In case of fire, will your water system be ready to
help you fight it?
If your answer is no or maybe, it might pay you to make some
changes. Farmers especially need a good water system to control a fire
until the fire department arrives, warns 0. L. Hogsett, University of
Illinois extension safety specialist.
The most common water system failure at the time of a fire
occurs in the wiring system to the pump. If the lines carrying electric-
ity to the pump are broken or burned in two, the pump does not work.
The best remedy is an independent power supply for the pump.
If your meter is on a pole, run a separate circuit from the meter pole
to the pump pit or house, and keep it away from buildings.
If your meter is on the house, perhaps you should replan your
farmstead wiring. A central distribution pole will probably help you
get more uses from the electricity, in addition to making it easier to run
an independent circuit to your pumps.
Your local power company service engineer can help you plan
a modernized wiring system,
-30-
OLHtcm
4/15/58
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plan Oat Demonstrations in 49 Illinois Counties
URBANA — Farmers in 49 Illinois counties will cooperate in oat
variety demonstrations this year, reports J. W. Pendleton, University
of Illinois agronomist. Farm advisers in each county will supervise
planting and harvesting of these plots.
These demonstrations, grown on farms throughout the state,
will give farmers an opportunity to see new varieties growing alongside
varieties they have grown for several years. Ten different varieties
will be included in each demonstration plot.
Farmers will be especially interested in seeing Minhafer,
Beedee and Burnett, new varieties on test in 1958. Other varieties in
the tests include Fayette, Putnam, Nemaha, Newton, Clintland, Clinton
and Clarion.
A special field day will be held just before harvest in
each county where demonstrations are carried out. Pendleton says this
will be the best time to see differences between the varieties. After
harvest, each plot will be weighed and the per acre yield will be cal-
culated by the county farm adviser.
Results from all county demonstration plots will be brought
together and published by the University of Illinois department of
agronomy. Results from these farm demonstrations help to show farmers
nore about the performance of different strains of oats and supplement
:he research work at the agronomy research centers, Pendleton concludes
-30-
IDGtcm
1/15/58
(Note to Editors: A list of counties carrying out demonstrations is
attached. Your farm adviser can give the location of plots in your
:ounty. )
•
.
'
.
Counties With 1958 oat Variety Demonstrations
No, of
No. of
County
Demonstrations
County
Demonstrations
Boone
1
LaSalle
2
Brown
1
Lee
2
Bureau
1
Livingston
1
Carroll
2
McDonough
1
Clinton
1
McHenry
1
Coles
1
McLean
2
Cook
2
Macon
1
DeWitt
2
Mar sh al 1- Putnam
1
Douglas
1
Mercer
2
DuPage
1
Moultrie
1
Edgar
1
ogle
1
Ford
1
Peoria
1
Fulton
1
Rock Island
1
Grundy
1
St, Clair
1
Hamilton
1
Sangamon
1
Hancock
1
Shelby
1
Henderson
3
Stark
1
Henry
2
Stephenson
1
Iroquois
1
Tazewell
1
Jersey
1
Vermilion
1
Jo Daviess
1
Warren
2
Kane
1
Whiteside
4
Kankakee
3
Winnebago
2
Knox
3
Woodford
1
Lake
1
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDNERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grapes Require Extensive Pruning
by Frank W. Oven
Fruit Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
require heavier pruning than any other Illinois tree fruit.
Neglected grapevines always lack vigor and hear small, straggly hunches
of small fruit. Such vines, however, respond to proper pruning. And they may be
restored to profitable production if they are healthy.
Grapevines require moderate pruning to produce a medium-type growth that
produces quality fruit. Pruning too lightly makes weak growth. Bunches and fruit
will both be small. Pruning too severely develops overvigorous, unproductive shoots
called "bull canes."
First pruning problem is to establish the vines on a trellis as quickly
as possible after planting. Cut back the young vines at planting time to a single
stub with two buds to increase the vigor of the shoots. During the first season,
tie the young shoots to a building lath to help the trunks grow straighter. By
the beginning of the second season, vines should start climbing the trellis.
In training the vines, select the strongest cane and tie it as high on the
trellis as its length will permit. Remove all other canes. For Illinois growers
the Khiffin system of training is recommended. This system, explained below allows
the shoots to droop.
In this system, trunk refers to the central stem of the vine; shoot, to
a growth of the current season; cane, to a growth one year old; arm, to a cane
selected for renewal; and spur, to a cane located near the trunk that has been cut
back to two buds. These buds will produce shoots to be used as arms the following
season.
-more-
•
. ■
.
.
.
■
-2-
Grapes must be pruned every year to keep enough bearing wood for best
fruit production. Except for the trunks and the short stubby bases of arms or older
wood, the wood left after pruning is all one year old. And only one-year-old canes
produce fruit.
The arms are renewed each year by selecting canes of medium vigor that
originate as near the trunk as possible. Leave a single spur with two buds near
the base of each arm to furnish canes for renewal next year. Prune off all other
canes. Then cut back the selected arms, leaving about the same number on each.
Buds should total about kO to 60 per vine.
The number of buds to leave on a vine will depend on the variety, soil
fertility, and any climatic or cultural factors that influence vigor.
Vines neglected for several years should be renewed gradually. Severe
cutting would renew them in one season, but it would make their growth so vigorous
that they would bear little or no fruit.
To prune neglected vines trained to the four-arm Kniffin system, renew
two arms on opposite sides the first year. Prune the other two arms lightly--com-
pleting their renewal the next season.
Neglected vines also frequently have several trunks. Gradually cut
them back until only one remains. If this cutting causes vigorous shoots to come
up from the crown, use one of the new shoots to form a new trunk. Prune the old
vine moderately until the new one becomes established.
When grapes are trained on an arbor, the primary purpose is to provide
shade. However, even in arbor training more and better fruit can be grown by regu-
lating vigor in accordance with production.
Annual pruning is also necessary with arbor training, since only one-
year-old canes produce fruit. Carry the permanent trunk along the top of the arbor.
Then distribute arms of one-year-old wood at intervals of three or four feet along
this permanent trunk.
-more-
•
'
'
-3-
Grapes should "be pruned in early spring after all danger of extreme cold
is past. But do not delay pruning until the sap flow is so rapid it will "be lost
*by "bleeding" at the pruning wounds.
[ -30-
PAC:cm
V15/58
;
:
•
■
A*»2
Farm News
IIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Indian Economist Sees Sound Democratic Development for India
URBANA — "Let India live in a congenial international environ-
ment, and you will see what contributions through our economic and
social development our people make toward international understanding
and brotherhood.
This statement was made this week by G, S. Lavania, head of
the section of agricultural economics at Banaras Hindu University,
India, before a University of Illinois audience. Lavania is an ex-
change scholar at the University this year,
Lavania pointed out that the rate of progress in India during the
past seven years has been exceedingly satisfactory. The people and the
government believe in democracy, and the second five-year plan, like
the first one, is a democratic step toward improving the people.
Lavania feels that development under democracy is bound to be
slow. "But it is surely sound and strong-footed, " he emphasized.
With completion of the first five-year plan in 1956, India
undertook a gigantic second five-year plan, to be completed by 1961.
The second plan covers a total outlay of 15 billion dollars, of which
slightly less than 10 billion falls on the public sector of the economy
;and nearly 5 billion in the private portion.
-
.
. ' ■
-
: .."
■ ■ • '
'
•
... .
' • -
■'
■
S ...
- ... ' • ' "
idd Democratic Development for India - 2
The first five-year plan helped to stabilize the shattered
:ndian economy, Lavania pointed out. The second plan is a huge under-
taking to raise the national income by 25 percent, consumption by 21
>ercent and the rate of investment from 5 to 7 percent. It undertakes
rapid industrialization and will open new channels of employment for
learly eight million people.
Even more, it attempts to reduce inequalities of income so
:hat the less privileged will have more. By 1961, the community devel-
>pment and national extension services will cover 325 million people,
"his includes the entire rural population, which had no such services
.n 1951.
The plan undertakes various social and economic developments,
ncluding agriculture, irrigation, power and social services. The
argest expenditure is for transportation and communication, which would
se about 29 percent of the total outlay from the public sector.
-30-
DG:Cm
/18/58
j • '
'
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sweet Corn Growers Benefit From UI Research
URBANA — Commercial sweet corn growers, as well as home garden-
ers who raise a few roasting ears, can now benefit from the work of
University of Illinois vegetable crops researchers,
C. Y. Arnold and his associates are helping to perfect a
system of determining harvest dates for sweet corn before the corn is
planted. Known as the "heat unit theory, " this system helps the
sweet corn grower predict when his crop will reach top eating quality.
This is often a problem because sweet corn passes through its range
of top quality in only a day or two. And this system helps the home
gardener space his corn plantings in such a way that only a few ears
will mature at one time.
For canning companies, the heat unit theory also is a guide
for spacing corn plantings. The system will eliminate the old problem
of having several fields ripen at the same time — causing processing
companies to work day and night harvesting the corn while it is at its
peak of maturity.
Can manufacturing companies can also use the heat unit theory,
The system will serve as a guide to their production by predicting when
canning companies will need cans.
Arnold explains that, although the heat unit theory is not
new, it still has some "bugs" and doesn't work perfectly. He and his
colleagues are trying to work out some of these problems. But before
the problems can be explained, the heat unit theory must be explained.
-more-
-
■"..."■
I • i .
',-■■■
■ , . ! 3
I • ' 9 - ■
- : ; ■ •
. I \ ■ .-•_.-.
: .. : •
; 3 I
. 9V .'•'•
• . ' ' ' ... ' ■
-•
Add Heat Unit Theory - 2
One of the biggest problems of the theory is its complexity.
Canning companies with trained men can successfully apply it, but the
home gardener sometimes has difficulty. So Arnold has designed a simple
method for home gardeners and market growers. Here is how it works:
The heat unit theory is the relationship between temperature
and rate of plant growth. For example, 50 degrees F. has been used as
the base temperature for sweet corn. This means that sweet corn will
not grow at any temperature below 50 degrees. As the temperature in-
creases above 50 degrees, though, plant growth increases accordingly.
Heat units are figured each day. They are the difference be-
tween the base temperature and the average daily temperature. So, if
one day the average temperature was 64 degrees, the heat units for that
day would total 14.
By using charts prepared from weather bureau records, com-
mercial growers can figure, before planting, the number of heat units
that can be expected during the growing season. And growers also know
how many heat units are required for each sweet corn variety to mature.
Using this information, they can predict harvest dates with reasonable
accuracy. Desired harvest dates, in turn, are used to schedule plant-
ing dates.
As an example, Arnold cited a company planting Golden Cross
Bantam sweet corn. It's known that this variety requires 1,875 heat
units to mature. If the company wanted several fields ready for harves
on September 12, they would select a planting date that would allow
1,875 heat units to accumulate by September 12. The prediction of Sep-
tember 12 as the harvest date is based on normal expected temperatures.
-more-
'
.
•
.
•
•
'
'
•
Add Heat Unit Theory - 3
It can be modified, if necessary, according to the actual heat units
accumulated day by day during the growing period.
This simpler method is a series of charts that enable
"amateurs" to easily determine harvest dates and planting schedules for
their sweet corn. Anyone may obtain these charts by writing to 206
vegetable Crops Building, Urbana,
Arnold and his associates have already solved another problem
of the heat unit theory — that of more accurately determining the base
temperature for sweet corn. Fifty degrees has been used for many years,
but two years of research indicate that the base temperature is actually
in the low forties.
Use of the new temperature will make determination of harvest
dates more accurate.
Another problem is the difference between soil and air
temperatures, Arnold has found that temperatures taken in exposed soil
Hie inch deep are more accurate than air temperatures up to emergence
of the growing point. This is important because the growing point of
a corn plant, remains underground for three or four weeks after planting.
Use of soil temperatures until the growing point emerges, and
lir temperatures from then on, also gives greater accuracy in predicting
larvest dates.
This increase in accuracy is most pronounced at the tasseling
Jtage. However, from tasseling to harvest, other environmental factors
>esides temperature influence corn plant development. These factors
lecrease the benefit from using soil temperatures. Arnold is currently
'studying this problem.
-30-
kcicm
1/18/58
• •
1
....•■ '.
*'-■.-'. ' - ■
■
• 4 .
. . . ' •
' ' ' : ■ • ' . . •.. .
■ . '
i - . • ' :
" i
■■ .
. • . f J .;
:
.
■
... . _
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending April 18, 1958. )
Grain Markets Stabilize; Await New Developments
URBANA-- Grain markets appear to be consolidating recent gains and await-
ing new developments, reports T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain
marketing staff. During the past week, corn was higher, soybeans moderately lower
and wheat essentially unchanged.
Farmers now face some difficult decisions in selling their grain, Hierony^
mus points out.
Corn is nearly $1.25 a bushel, high enough to suggest danger of holding
longer. But continued light CCC sales, the promised feed grain export subsidy pro-
gram and excellent demand for cash corn could move prices higher. Corn movement
south and east by truck has been especially strong. Truck bids are generally 2 to
3 cents over rail bids, making the market spotty and uneven.
But these strengthening factors may not last. CCC will not sell any corn
that it can avoid, but it holds a lot of corn. Some will be found to be out of
condition. CCC is having trouble finding space in western areas.
The export subsidy program has questionable price -strengthening value.
It takes CCC out of the export market, but it must sell its stocks some place.
Truck demand is always erratic.
Preliminary figures for the first half of the marketing year would indi-
cate an abundance of free corn. But whether the large stocks will press the Illi-
nois price down is questionable. The main markets for Illinois corn are in the
east, where feed is relatively short, while excess free stocks are in the west.
Soybean prices can now be profitably redeemed from the loan. The crop
estimate, if accurate, would indicate lower prices next summer. But the key ques-
tion is whether prices will go higher before summer.
-more -
-
-
.
■
■ .
... • •
-
i
i
-2-
After a sharp upsurge last week, the soybean meal price seems to be
faltering. Heavy export buying of soybean oil this past week did not boost prices.
The one real source of strength will be possible smaller supplies than the figures
show.
New crop wheat prices are very closely involved with the old crop May
futures contract. For the immediate future, new crop prices will probably move in
the same way that May wheat does. The May contract is so delicately balanced that
it could go either way. Kansas City wheat weakened this past week because an early
harvest was expected in Texas.
-30-
HDG:dm
fc-18-58
■
■
.
•
• •
£ A^
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
Tapazcle ::eeds More Cattle-? eedir.g .rials
V7.3.-.::.-.--7:apazcls needs rcre experimental work "cefcre it zar.
be recc-.~er.ded to feeders.
G. R. Carlisle, extension Livestock specialist at the Otaiver-
Bity of Illinois, points cut that trials so far reported using Tacazcle
in cattle-feeding crcgrz-s have been snort. :r.e was 3: days ar.d the
other 7 9 days.
However, in both of these short feeding trials at the Iowa
Agricultural Experirr.ent Station, Tapazcle stimulated gains more ir. the
first month of the test than later, Carlisle says.
In these two tests, Tapazcle increased gains by 9 and 12 per-
cent and reduced feed costs 7 and 3 percent. Average daily gams in
the two tests during the first 28 days "..'are 2.2E pounds fcr the control
let compared with 3.73 pounds fcr the cattle getting 7a-zz;le. Aver-
ages for the secend 28 days were 2.5- pounds for the controls and 3.12
fcr the Capazcle lots, and fcr the final 22 days, 2. II zzzr.is fcr the
Mitrols and 2.73 pounds for the layazcle cattle.
7a~azole is a synthetic chemical that represses the secretion
:f -he thyroid gland, Carlisle reports. It has 'zee- used in human
cedicine in overactive thyroid cases.
--..-rem
21 --'-
-30-
'
-
'
s
•
-
•
■ i . ■
-
i
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
State Junior Livestock School on May 3
URBANA — More than 1,000 boys and girls are expected to par-
ticipate in the State Junior Livestock Judging and Showmanship school
at the state Fairgrounds in Springfield on Saturday, May 3.
Sponsored by the Land of Lincoln Purebred Livestock Breeders
Association in cooperation with the Cooperative Extension service of
the University of Illinois and the Illinois Division of Vocational Agri-
culture, the school will start at lOcOO a.m. D.S.T. in the Junior Live-
stock Building.
Extension livestock specialists from the University of Illi-
nois College of Agriculture and several outstanding livestock breeders
from all over the state who are members of the Land of Lincoln associ-
ation are cooperating in this junior training event.
O. F. Gaebe, in charge of agricultural 4-H Club work at the
University of Illinois, says that instruction in selecting, grooming
and fitting, and showing the various classes of fat stock will headline
the morning program.
Nine rings of livestock will be judged in the school, start-
ing at 12:45 p.m. They include two rings of beef heifers, one ring
of steers, one ring of fat lambs, two rings of yearling ewes, two rings
of gilts and one ring of barrows.
This training school is a preliminary to the state judging
contest to be held in Urbana on July 1, Gaebe points out. Juniors will
record their placings in the afternoon judging, but the cards will be
ased only for training purposes and will not be graded.
All Illinois junior livestock growers are urged to attend.
3aebe suggests that each bring his own sack lunch, since luncheon facil-
ities are limited at the Fairgrounds.
^AJtcm
1/21/58
-30-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
lepair Garden Tools Before Spring
URBANA — Gardening season will soon be here. Soon enough, in
Eact, for farmers and town gardeners to get gardening tools ready,
O. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the university
rjf Illinois, says that local gardeners should be sure to replace split
3r broken handles on tools and to tape splintered handles so that they
tfon't harvest a bad crop of accidents this year.
Go over all equipment. Repair, sharpen, and cover it with
jrease to prevent rusting. If you don't have a good storage rack, build
Dne in the farm shop or garage to keep garden tools where you can find
them when needed.
Once the gardening season begins, be sure to put scythes,
sickles, hoes and other cutting tools away immediately after use. Hang
:>r store them where no one will bump into them or be hurt if the tool
should fall.
Get into the practice of doing things the right way. The
right way is the safe way.
-30-
)LH:cm
721/58
-
-
j
I
•
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Parasite Problems of Ponies on Increase
URBANA — Along with the increase in number of ponies during
the past few years, internal parasite problems have also increased.
Dr. T. N. Phillips of the University of Illinois College of
veterinary Medicine reports that inadequate control measures to prevent
internal parasites have caused the loss of many ponies. Parasites also
increase expense to the owner by interfering with feed utilization.
Ponies may be infested with several kinds of internal para-
sites, but ordinarily only two types cause serious difficulties:
parascarids (roundworms) and strongyles (bloodworms) • The adult worms
live and produce eggs in the intestinal tract. The eggs pass out with
the feces and, after a development period of one to three weeks, infect
the same or other ponies.
Ponies pick up the eggs or larvae (immature worms) from con-
taminated feed, water or pastures. After the larvae enter the body,
they migrate throughout the internal organs, especially the liver and
lungs. After two or three months, most of the larvae go back to the
intestinal tract and develop into adult worms. Then the cycle starts
again.
Ponies under one year of age usually show most severe symptoms
Symptoms vary with the degree of infestation. The may start with slight
stunting of growth and end in death. Among the most prominent symptoms
are poor hair-coat, stunted growth, anemia, pot-bellied appearance,
diarrhea, coughing and frequent colic attacks.
-more-
'
.
-
.
.
1
■
■•■■•'•
rf
'
■•
.
..
i :
-
Add Ponies - 2
Veterinarins have drugs that will rid ponies of adult worms,
but these drugs do not kill the larval forms. Larval forms do more
damage than adult worms, and they can be controlled only by preventive
measures.
Dr. Phillips recommends the following control measures r
1. Have a veterinarian treat ponies twice a year or when
needed as determined by fecal examinations.
2. Avoid overstocking pastures, and rotate pastures yearly.
3. Clean stables regularly, and do not spread manure on
permanent pastures.
4. Prevent feed and water from becoming contaminated with
manure •
-30-
JER:cm
4/21/58
_L .-. Z -
31 Illinois Counties Plan, soybean c:e.-cr.scraticr. Plots
VR3A:^--Far--ers ir. a*: least 21 Illinois counties •■•■ill plant
soybean variety derr.onstration plots this spring in cccueraticn with
their county farr. advisers, according cc vr. 3. Scccc, University of
Illinois agrcncrist.
Scott retires that these plots '••ill give farcers a o'nanoe 01
see the results of research en fares in every part if one state. Soy-
bean varieties rest recently released by plant breeders can be seer.
■rowing alongside sore strains ~sez\ for -any years. Soybean growers
can see hew the different soybeans perfor- and ohnse the cr.es that
obey feel will do best on their farns.
Varieties under oeso will vary* slightly m different pares
of the state. Counties m northern Cllir.cis will grew Chippewa, Hare-
soy, Hawkeye, A darts and Lincoln. Jarrers with plots m western Illi-
nois will grow the sane varieoies plus Clark. Tfccse in oentral Illino:
pill include one sane varieoies as the western Illinois c:_r.cies pl-s
?.:e.
In south-central Illinois, one denonstration olios will in-
clude Harosoy, Hawkeye, .-.dans, Imcrln, Clark and ?.ce.
Special field days are planned m each county sc oh.ao farneri
can see and hear about the varieties under teso, yield res-lcs m all
tests will be surrrarized and published by the University of Illinois
Departrr.ent cf Agrcr.cr-.y.
-30-
HCCtcr-
4/21/3 5
:oe to Editor: A liso cf counties what will carry Dot soybean deaon-
straoicn plcos is enclosed. You can get rcre mfcrr-aticn abcuc loca-
tion cf the plots from the faro advisers in these counties.)
.
.
.
■
.
■
■
i
•
Counties With soybean Variety Demonstration Plots in 1958
Clay
Coles
Douglas
Fulton
Greene
Grundy
Hancock
Henderson
Jefferson
Jersey
Knox
Lake
Logan
McDonough
McLean
Macon
Macoupin
Madison
Mercer
Menard
Morgan
Peoria
Pike
St. Clair
Stark
Shelby
Warren
Washington
Whiteside
Winnebago
Woodford
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Annuals in Your Garden
by C. E. Ackerman
Floriculture Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA-- Some of the most attractive flowers used for home beautification
are the colorful annuals. They are valued not only for their own beauty, but for
the beauty they develop in the scenes in which they are a part.
Color, form and texture are the characteristics in plants and flowers that
produce pleasing effects. Garden composition is largely a matter of arranging and
combining these characteristics to form attractive patterns.
To produce a harmonious effect, use flowers in which no more than two or
three colors predominate at one time. In other words, strive for simplicity in
color.
Use form to achieve horizontal and vertical lines. Use billowy patterns
to express rhythm, harmony and balance. Use the line form of plants to accent, de-
fine or subdue other parts of the garden or landscape scene.
Annuals are generally classed in three form groups. The tall species or
varieties, such as delphinium, lilies and giant marigolds, are called background
forms. Medium-sized species are called the middleground forms. Examples are phlox,
zinnias, snapdragons, marigolds and others. And short varieties, such as sweet
alyssum, are called foreground forms.
The medium- sized species make up the body of the garden. Foreground and
background flowers are used to set off the middleground.
Texture is used to produce unity of effect. Fine- textured plants, such as
alyssum or bleeding heart, give an effect of nearness. Coarse- textured plants, such
as hollyhocks, give the effect of distance.
-more-
-2-
Annuals have other uses in the garden too. They can be used to decorate
and cover bare areas where perennials have been killed. Or they can brighten dull
areas.
Annuals need only a moderate amount of care. Most of them will grow well
in a sunny location, and they will grow in all types of garden soils if drainage is
adequate and if the soil is fertile. Applying suitable fertilizers will help to
improve less fertile soils.
If the soil in your garden is heavy clay, mix some coarse sand and organic
matter into the top six inches to help make it mellow. When the soil becomes dry
during the growing season, slowly apply enough water to wet it to a depth of six
inches .
-30-
PAC:sl
V21/58
.
-
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
AGRICULTURAL EVENTS CALENDAR FOR ILLINOIS
3 Land 01 Lincoln Junior Livestock Judging Contest, State Fairgrounds,
Springfield.
9 Twilight Orchard Meeting, Nugent Schpanski Orchards, Grafton, 3:30 P«b«
A supper and night meeting are also scheduled.
9 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Brownstown, Fayette County, 10 a.m.
ly 12-16 Leisurecraft and Counseling Conference, *4-H Memorial Camp, Monticello.
*y 22-23 Conference of Production Credit Association Fieldmen, 10 a.m. , Urbana-
Lincoln Hotel, Urbana.
May 22 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Enfield, White County, 1:30 p.m.
May 23 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Carbondale, Jackson County,
1:30 p.m.
ly 26 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Raleigh, Saline County, 1:30 p.m.
ay 27 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Ewing, Franklin County, 1:30 p.m.
Illinois Rural Chorus Workshop, Allerton House, Monticello.
June 9-13 Grain Dealers1 Bookkeeping School, Illini Union, University of Illinois,
Urbana. Registration at 9 a.m., June 9»
le 9 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, West Salem, Edwards County,
1:30 p.m.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Newton, Jasper County, 1:30 p.m.
le 10-12 State F.F.A. Convention, State Fairgrounds, Springfield.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Toledo, Cumberland County,
1:30 p.m.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Carlinville, Macoupin County,
1:30 p.m.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Hartsburg, Logan County,
1:30 p.m.
Northern Illinois Farm Safety Field Day, Knoxville High School,
Knoxville, 9 a.m.
Land Economics Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana.
June
11
June
12
June
13
June
13
June 17-
August 9
-more-
Ag Events Calendar - 2
June 17-19 Illinois Vocational Agriculture Teachers Summer Conference. Registra-
tion at 1 p.m., Illini Union Ballroom, University of Illinois, Urbana.
Annual Field Day, Illinois Seed Dealers and Illinois Crop Improvement
Association, Agronomy South Farm, University of Illinois, Urbana.
State F.F.A. Judging Contests. Registration at Stock Pavilion, Uni-
versity of Illinois, Urbana.
June 2k Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Minonk, Woodford County, 1:30 p.m.
June 25 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Aledo, Mercer County, 1:30 p.m.
-30-
PAC:cm
V22/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TGE in Swine Spreads Rapidly
URBANA — one of the highly contagious diseases of new-born pigs
is transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) , says Dr. P. D. Beamer of the
University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine,
TGE spreads rapidly among baby pigs, causing vomiting,
diarrhea, dehydration and high death loss. The mortality rate among
pigs decreases as their age increases, says Dr. Beamer. In pigs under
10 days of age, nearly 100 percent die. Pigs affected after they are
three weeks old seldom die, and mature animals may not even show
noticeable symptoms.
Early and about the only symptoms are scours and vomiting.
Little pigs seem very thirsty. They drink water or nurse, vomit and
then repeat the process. As a result, they become weakened and de-
hydrated and die quickly. Sows that have been affected can be kept for
breeding.
Since there is no treatment for TGE, the best means of avoid-
ing losses lies in prevention. Follow the McLean county swine sanita-
tion system, veterinarians suggest. Isolate sows at farrowing time, and
keep visitors away from the herd until the pigs have a chance to get
started.
TGE has been found in many parts of Illinois since it first
appeared in 1947. Although it hasn't caused serious losses to the swine
industry in the state as a whole, a swine raiser's entire pig crop could
be lost if TGE strikes.
-30-
JERtcm
4/23/58
..- ,. ....... . .
.' ' ■■ ..- • .■:'■' '
.'-..• • '• :•.■'. ' . • •
.. ' ■ ' - ' ■■.-.• :: ■ . . ■
. ■ V . a *'• • ' •" ■- . \. ' d ' ■ ' ■ ■ S • • ,..-••«
:. • -■:.--:• .::•■•.' I • :- ; . .■ . • \"£ ■■'
■:. . ■ . ■' . . , as 1 - - '•"•'"'
•■■'•'• B at' ' • • !'•...*.■'••
• n ■..•.-■'.■■■•:'•■'' . ..•■ . »r ..•■■ -• ' . .'.
.,,.... ;/. v: .,,._ .•
j w, -.■: ' ■•■ K>1 :.:;.;. :: •':.'/ ..;• *■ \ .. i : 3 : CTO: . . • •
.. ■• ' : •■■ i/. • . -S ■ I i r;t! ' '• •'•' ••■-'.•■■. •
.V . . . • •
■.-.•: ' . '. .■;-•'•'. ' • - ■■.■...: ■
'•■••:'.• . ■ ■ ■ •• [JCWI .. , Eorfti ":•
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Marilyn Wilderman Returns Home From Australia
URBANA — Marilyn Wilderman, 500 East Vine Street, Greenville,
returned to Washington, D. C, this week after living and working with
farm families in Australia for the past six months.
Miss Wilderman is one of the six Illinois delegates to the
International Farm Youth Exchange program who visited in foreign
countries in 1957, she and David Osborne, Pittsfield, New Hampshire,
also a delegate to Australia, spent four days in Washington evaluating
their experiences abroad.
This final consultation program, arranged by the National 4-H
Club Foundation, Included visits with officials of the Departments of
Agriculture and State, the Australian Embassy and the IFYE staff of the
National 4-H Club Foundation.
During 1957 a total of 124 American rural young people lived
in farm homes in more than 40 countries throughout the free world under
the IFYE program. In the exchange part of the program, 176 exchangees
from cooperating countries came to the United States to learn the
American way of life at first hand.
-more-
• :
- .
.
'
'
■
gVj
.
•*'V! I:
'
•
■ -i -
■
'
>: ■
•
'
'
•
.
Add Wilderman - 2
Miss Wilderman is now available for speaking engagements to
report her experiences in Australia, Groups interested in her report
may contact either Mrs. Nina Bruns, Bond county home adviser/ or R. C,
Broom, Bond county farm adviser, at Greenville.
-30-
RAJ:Cm
4/24/58
.
.
:■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-H Staff Hosts Four-State Conference
URBANA — More than 50 4-H workers from five midwest states
and from the United states Department of Agriculture, the National 4-H
Club Foundation and the National Committee on Boys and Girls Club Work
are expected to attend the 21st Four-State 4-H Conference at Allerton
Park April 28 to May 2.
Theme of the conference is "4-H Club Work in the Space Age."
Registration opens at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, April 28, at the north
entrance to Bevier Hall on the University of Illinois campus. Confer-
ence participants are expected from Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and
Wisconsin, in addition to the Illinois 4-H staff.
First conference session is a dinner at the University YMCA
starting at 6:00 p.m. O. F. Gaebe, in charge of agricultural 4-H Club
work for Illinois, will be in charge, speakers will include Dean
Louis B. Howard of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture
and Dean B. L. Dodds of the University of Illinois College of Education.
Sessions on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday will be at Aller-
ton House near Monticello. Friday's agenda include an optional tour of
the University of Illinois campus, with lunch in the Bevier Hall
cafeteria.
Attending from the Illinois 4-H staff will be Anna Searl,
*ose Ann Biever, Erma Cottingham, Florence Kimmelshue, JoAnn Sievers,
\rlene Wolfram, 0. F. Gaebe, L. J. Biever, G. L. Daigh, F. L. Haegele,
?• H. Mynard, G. W. stone, H. J. Wetzel and E. H. Regnier, extension
^creationist.
-30-
^AJ:cm
V24/58
-
.
. . :
-
.
.
■
■
■
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To Hold Sheep Production Day on June 8
URBANA — Annual Sheep Production Day of the Illinois Purebred
Sheep Breeders Association will be held at the Kankakee state Park on
Sunday, June 8.
A full day's program is being arranged, starting at 10:00 a.m.
DST and winding up about 3s 00 p.m. with a basket lunch at noon.
Nolan Nelson, Morris, chairman of the arrangements committee,
extends an invitation to all who are interested in sheep to attend this
educational family field day.
-30-
RAJrcm
4/24/58
. .
•.-
. ■ ■
■ : ■
.■ •
•
. .
■
•
•l
• .-
!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Store Gasoline in Safe Container
URBANA — If glass jugs were broken after being used once,
there' d probably be fewer accidents with gasoline.
Jugs that once held cider, disinfectant or other liquids
often end up as gasoline storage containers, and that is where the
trouble begins, says o. L, Hogsett, extension safety specialist at
the university of Illinois College of Agriculture •
One reason a glass jug isn't suited for gasoline is that it
breaks easily. And, if a gasoline-filled glass jug is involved in a
fire, it will either crack or explode, depending on how tight the cap
fits and how much fuel is in the jug. In either case it causes a
bigger fire.
The solution to this problem is to use a metal can. If
you're buying a new one, it is wise to spend a little more for a safety-
type can. This kind of can has a spring-loaded lid that will automat-
ically close if the can is dropped. This lid also allows for fuel ex-
pansion without damage to the can.
Be sure that the can is painted a bright red and has "Gaso-
line" plainly painted on the side.
-30-
DLHrcm
1/24/58
■
...
■ ' ■
• -
[
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Forage Sorghum Silage Outyields Corn; Feeding Value About Equal
URBANA — Hybrid forage sorghums will yield more silage per acre
than corn, according to tests by University of Illinois agronomist Carl
Hittle. And dairy cows at the University farm have shown that they will
produce about the same amount of milk with either corn or sorghum si-
lage.
Hittle reports that 1957 tests in central Illinois, near
Champaign, showed that 17 standard forage sorghum varieties and 7 hybrid
types averaged 22 tons of silage an acre. Two corn plots in the same
field averaged 18 tons of silage an acre.
In northern Illinois, near DeKalb, forage sorghums averaged
19 1/2 tons an acre, while the corn averaged 19 tons. In south-central
Illinois, near Brownstown, forage sorghums produced 18 tons of silage,
while the corn yielded only 15 tons an acre.
The hybrid forage sorghums have a big advantage over the
standard types in the amount of grain they contain. In the Champaign
county tests, the hybrids averaged 50 bushels of grain an acre, while
the standard types averaged only 31 bushels. So Hittle feels that the
ivbrid forage sorghum makes silage superior to that of the standard
varieties. In contrast, the corn yielded 88 bushels of grain an acre.
To compare the feeding value of corn and sorghum silage,
lairy scientist K. A. Kendall put 10 Holstein cows on a preliminary
feeding test during January and February. Five cows received corn si-
lage; the other five recived hybrid forage sorghum silage. Each group
ilso received a regular 14 percent protein grain mixture and alfalfa.
Che cows ate a little more than 50 pounds of silage a day.
-more-
Add Forage Sorghums - 2
During the 59-day feeding test, each group of cows averaged
exactly 35,2 pounds of milk a day. When the milk was corrected for
the difference in fat content, there was still a difference of only
.6 pound of milk a day in favor of the corn silage.
Kendall reports that further feeding tests will be carried
3ut on more cows this coming winter. This spring Hittle plans to make
fiorage sorghum plantings at DeKalb, Urbana and Brownstown. Cooperative
studies with agronomists will also be made at Dixon Springs and Carbon-
lale in southern Illinois.
-30r
IDG: cm
1/24/58
_• • • b ic i •'••■.■ ■ " '••
«'-J - ' '
, :
...■'_•..•;.. ■■•• ■ .
-■ ' '
- • ■ •. ... ■ ' ■'
■ ■''•■"
(Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of five releases on Dutch elm disease,
its history, symptoms, diagnoses and control. The series was pre-
pared with the cooperation of Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist
with the Illinois Natural History Survey. )
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dutch Elm Disease Most Serious Shade Tree Disease
URBANA — Dutch elm disease, now spreading through the prairie states, is
the area's most serious shade tree disease.
Introduced into the United States from Europe in 1930, the disease stead-
ily spread throughout the northeastern states. Since 1950, it has spread rapidly
in Illinois.
Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with the Illinois Natural History
Survey, warns that all communities with abundant elms can expect the arrival of
Dutch elm disease. All elms are susceptible to the disease to some degree. And
the American elm is most susceptible of all.
Dutch elm disease is caused by a fungus. This fungus is carried from
diseased elms or contaminated elm wood to healthy trees by elm bark beetles. Or
it can be transmitted through root grafts. The fungus grows and the bark beetles
breed in dead and dying elm wood.
Dutch elm disease was first discovered in Holland, Belgium and France
about 1912. The disease is believed to have been introduced into Europe from Asia
during the first World War. By 1933 it had spread to England and throughout con-
tinental Europe.
According to Campana, Dutch elm disease was first found in the United
States in 1930. The causative fungus was isolated from a few diseased elms in both
Cleveland and Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1933 large numbers of diseased trees were dis-
covered around New York City. Soon thereafter elm logs from France, intercepted
at the port of New York, were discovered to be infested with the Dutch elm disease
fungus. From these same logs the smaller European elm bark beetles were identified.
1
-more-
[
•
'
" • •
■
'
..
:•
•
.
•
•
:
'
.
■
'
Add Dutch Elm Disease Release Number 1-2
Within five years after 1933> "the disease had spread over 7>500 square
miles from New York City. And it had destroyed over 27>000 trees.
For several years a federally financed eradication program reduced the
number of trees infected annually. But it failed to halt the overland spread of
the disease. During and following World War II, when little or no federal control
work was done, spread of the disease was accelerated throughout the northeastern
states .
By 1950 Dutch elm disease had spread westward to Michigan, east-central
Illinois and eastern Colorado. Since then it has spread throughout the Midwest.
-3D-
PAC:sl
ty25/58
..... •....' ... •
•■. . ' •■'• ' .... '
'
'
■ ' ■ '
(Editor's Note: This the second in a series of five releases on Dutch elm disease,
its history, symptoms, diagnoses and control. The series was pre-
pared with the cooperation of Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist
with the Illinois Natural History Survey.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
All Elms Susceptible to Dutch Elm Disease
URBANA — Elm trees of all varieties and species are susceptible in some
degree to Dutch elm disease.
But different elm species have varying degrees of susceptibility, points
out Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey.
Asiatic elms appear to be significantly more resistant than most European and Ameri-
can elms. However, they can still be infected. Both Chinese and Siberian elms are
very resistant to the disease.
The Dutch have developed a resistant European elm known as the Buisman
elm. Named for the woman who did most of the early research work on the disease in
Holland, the Buisman elm was first believed to be immune to the disease. But at
least one strain of the disease fungus has been found to which this tree is not
completely resistant.
Unfortunately, the Buisman elm does not appear to be as desirable a tree
as the native American elm. Its form, rate of growth and winter- hardiness cannot
compare with those of the American variety.
The most unfortunate fact is that native American elm is the variety most
susceptible to the disease. This elm appears to have no resistance whatsoever. Once
a tree becomes infected, its death is almost certain.
The American elm is one of the most widely distributed forest and shade
trees in the United States. It grows natively in all states east of the Great Plains
and has been widely planted in many cities and towns beyond its native distribution.
-30-
PAC:sl
V25/58
■
■:-■•'■ '■ ■ ■ - -. ■
% v: ■ tf .;'■• - '
• ■ ' - • ' '
■
' -
*
,
- • • • ■ ' . '
• HI '• •
■ ■"■ ■ • ' ■'
■ ' ■' *
-■"•■'
(Editor's Note: This is the third in a series of five releases on Dutch elm disease,
its history, symptoms, diagnoses and control. The series vas prepared
with the cooperation of Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with
the Illinois Natural History Survey. )
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Wilting First Symptom of Dutch Elm Disease
URBANA- -Wilting and discoloration of leaves are the first symptom of
Dutch elm disease. This condition is called "flagging" "because a wilted branch
stands out like a flag from the normal foliage.
Wilting and discoloration of leaves may occur at any time following
emergence of leaves. However, they are most typical and conspicuous in late spring
and early summer, points out Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with the I13.i-
nois Natural History Survey. Leaves of affected branches eventually wither com-
pletely and may fall prematurely.
Brown streaking is usually found in the wood of infected branches just
beneath the bark. It is especially notable in branches wilting early in the cur-
rent growing season. But sometimes streaking can be detected only by cutting
through the branch. It may then appear as brown dots or as a circle of brown dis-
coloration in the wood ring beneath the bark.
There are also other fungus diseases of elms that cause wilting and dis-
coloration similar to those in Dutch elm disease. For this reason positive diag-
nosis is possible only by laboratory test. Specimens for laboratory tests should
be taken from a live but wilting branch showing discoloration of sapwood. They
should be about eight to ten inches long and one -half inch or larger in diameter.
To prevent drying out in transit, they should be wrapped in wax paper or other
suitable material.
In the laboratory the bark is peeled away from the wood. Then several
chips of the discolored wood are placed in a sterile, nutrient jelly. If fungus
-more-
■
'
Add Dutch Elm Disease Release Number 3-2
is present in the wood, it will grow into the jelly and form a colony encircling
the chips. Microscopic examination will then positively identify the fungus.
Campana says that any homeowner wishing to have his elm trees tested for
the presence of Dutch elm disease should obtain a specimen sample from each tree
(follow above instructions) and mail them to Room 3^5 Natural Resources Building,
University of Illinois, Urbana.
-30-
PAC:dm
fc-25-58
: . .
'•
'
. . •
(Editor's Note: This the fourth in a series of five releases on Dutch elm disease,
its history, symptoms, diagnoses and control. The series was pre-
pared with the cooperation of Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist
with the Illinois Natural History Survey.)
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
No Cure for Dutch Elm Disease
URBANA — Control of Dutch elm disease is preventive only, according to
Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey.
There is no known cure for the disease.
Dutch elm disease can spread from diseased to healthy trees through root
grafts. But more often the causative fungus is carried by European elm bark bee-
tles. The beetles chew through the bark in crotches of young twigs.
Some of the spores of the fungus become dislodged from the beetles and
get into the sap stream of the tree. There they reproduce and eventually become
distributed throughout the tree. The fungus apparently interferes with conduction
of water in the tree, causing wilting and eventual death. Campana points out that,
once the fungus is in the main stem of a tree, the tree cannot be saved.
So, in order to control Dutch elm disease, bark beetles must be prevented
from feeding on healthy trees. This can be accomplished by thorough sanitation and
spraying.
i
The object of sanitation is to destroy breeding places of beetles. This
involves burning the bark of diseased, dead or dying stumps, trunks, branches and
twigs where the beetles breed. Campana adds that, once an infected tree is cut down,
beetles can still breed in the bark of the stump. To prevent this, the bark must be
burned or removed.
The object of spraying is to coat all bark surfaces of the tree with a
poison (a DDT emulsion), through which the beetles cannot penetrate without being
killed. If they cannot penetrate the bark, they cannot inoculate the tree with the
disease fungus.
To successfully control Dutch elm direase, sanitation and spraying must be
a community- wide project. A single homeowner who sprays his trees has some chance
of saving them. But the chance is slim.
-30-
PAC:sl
■ V25/58
.
. .
j
I
(Editor's Note: This is the last in a series of five releases on Dutch elm disease,
its history, symptoms, diagnoses and control. The series was prepared
with the cooperation of Richard J. Campana, plant pathologist with
the Illinois Natural History Survey. )
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Can Communities Control Dutch Elm Disease?
URBANA--"Can communities control Dutch elm disease?" is an often-raised
question. The answer, says a plant pathologist, is "yes."
In fact, some communities in the northeastern United States have had
effective control programs for many years, according to Richard J. Campana of the
Illinois Natural History Survey. More recently, communities in northern Illinois
have started control programs.
Since there is no known cure for Dutch elm disease, its control is pre-
ventive only. And although one person can start the "ball rolling" in a control
campaign, to he successful it must be a community -wide project. So here's how you
and your community can organize to control the spread of Dutch elm disease:
First: Call the problem of Dutch elm disease to the attention of local
municipal officials and civic organizations. Their first job is to hold public
meetings to acquaint the public with the disease and possibilities for its control.
Second: Form an elm tree committee to work for a control program. In-
clude representatives from both civic and municipal organizations.
Third: Obtain the professional services of a trained forester or ex-
perienced arborist. His job will be to evaluate, design and supervise a control
program. Such a consultant should have no commercial interest in the project.
Fourth: Find out which trees should be sprayed. Campana points out that
it isn't necessary or possible to spray every elm tree in the community. Value of
the trees* beetle infestation and presence or absence of the disease will determine
which trees are to be sprayed.
-more -
-
-•s .
- ■ • •• •.
...:'■ l'i-'i
■ j
-
■
.
■ . ■ '■••:.
;
•■ • -.
■
.
■
" •
'■'-■•. ..-:... ua • . ■• ■ ' ■■'.:...
:■
.
Srvl • r • ■ -''■■■
,
'
■ •:
■.•■■■. . • ' ' • .■■ '•■ •■ '■■■
-■';,-■' ..-■-..■■■ ...
'
Add Dutch Elm Disease Release Number 5-2
Fifth: Organize and promote a public education program on Dutch elm
disease. Continue the program as along as control is necessary.
Sixth: Review all available information on the community elm survey
results and on Dutch elm disease control. Use this information to design a pro-
gram that will suit your community needs. Present this program to local officials
and the public for approval.
-30-
PAC:dm
U-25-58
■ •-.''.. •■;...
■'• til
i • : .
' '• •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Plan State 4-H Key Club Meeting for June 28-29
URBANA — Four outstanding friends of 4-H Club work have been
nominated by the board of directors of the Illinois 4-H Key Club to
receive honorary keys.
They are A. F. Stephens, agricultural representative for the
Gulf, Mobile and Ohio railroad, St. Louis; George Iftner, assistant
director of the Illinois State Department of Agriculture, Springfield;
Miss Anna Searl, in charge of home economics 4-H Club work in Illinois,
Urbana; and H. I. Elder, Cities Service oil Company, Chicago,
These awards will be presented at the annual business meeting
of the Illinois 4-H Key Club on June 28 and 29 at State 4-H Memorial
Camp near Monticello.
Phyllis Floyd, Alexis, and Jack Goodrich, Naperville, state
co-chairmen of the Key Club, will be in charge of the program.
Registration starts at lzOO p.m. on Saturday, June 28, at the
camp. Subdistrict meetings are scheduled for 4s45 p.m. followed by
dinner in the camp dining hall at 6r30 p.m. Key Club members present
will elect 10 subdistrict directors during the evening business meeting
to serve on the 1958 Key Club board. New officers will later be electee
from among the board members.
Other business at the Saturday evening session includes in-
stallation of the honorary members and discussion of the 1958 project
to organize county Key Clubs under the direction of board members in
cooperation with Extension Service workers in each county.
-more-
Add 4-H Key Club - 2
0. F. Gaebe, in charge of agricultural 4-H Club work in Illi-
nois! and Miss Searl are state extension advisers to the organization.
Robert Anderson of Bloomington, district representative of Cities
Service, co-sponsor with the Extension service of the Key Club award
program, is also an adviser. More than 350 Illinois 4-H Key Club mem-
bers are expected to attend the state meeting.
-30-
RAJrcm
4/25/58
i\
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending April 25, 1958* )
Huge Grain Stocks Shadow Grain Market
URBANA--The grain stocks report released this week shows huge supplies
on hand, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain market-
ing staff. Even though this report was not released until Thursday afternoon,
corn prices dropped 2§- cents and soybeans 5 cents during the first four days of
the week.
Corn stocks on April 1 totaled nearly 2.8 billion bushels compared with
about 2.6 billion at this time last year. Corn use from January through March
added up to 801 million compared with Q2h million last year. Total use during the
first six months of this marketing year was about one percent more than last year,
however .
It now looks as if total corn supplies next October 1 will be about 1.6
billion bushels--an increase of 196 million above October 1, 1957* Farmers will
probably not put so much corn into loan as the Commodity Credit Corporation will
sell this year. The result will be an abundant supply of corn on the market for
the rest of the year, Hieronymus points out.
The export subsidy plan for feed grains will become effective May 5 for
corn and July 1 for other feed grains. This program permitB sales of corn for ex-
port from free stocks. Formerly exports had been supplied with CCC corn. But the
drain of corn for export out of free market stocks will be offset by increased CCC
sales in the domestic market. Thus far most of the CCC off -grade corn has been
sold for export. Now it will be sold in the domestic market.
Soybean stocks on April totaled 25h million bushels. At this time last
year they were 215 million. Use so far this year would indicate that the 1957 crop
totaled about k'jQ million bushels. Previously it had been estimated at U80 million.
-more-
• -- '.
. j . . ' . ■
■ • • I I .
I .
U ■ ■ .
■ - ■ • ■
■ • • . ...
,&uo
■ ■ :
: ■: '. ' ■ • • •:
.1
■■■
l J -
-2-
If processing, exports and seed needs are estimated as high as possible,
the soybean carryover next October 1 could be as low as 31 million bushels. But
if 1958 beans become available in September, this figure could be higher.
Oat stocks on April 1 totaled 600 million bushels compared with 1*15
million a year ago. Barley stocks totaled 262 million compared with 106 million.
Grain sorghum stocks totaled k2k million.
This superabundance of feed grains is located west of the Mississippi
River. The extent to which it will move east and press on Illinois prices is not
clear, Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HDG:dm
U-25-58
* I ':. -• SI -.
: . ■ • • . • ' ''
.... '
'
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Use Oats for Corn in Cattle Fattening Rations
URBANA — Whole oats fed in limited amounts can equal the feed-
ing value of corn in rations for yearling steers,
EL G. Russell, extension livestock specialist at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture, reports a 1957 feeding trial
at the Urbana Agricultural Experiment Station in which whole oats re-
placed about a third of the ground shelled corn in a pasture grain mix
for yearling steers.
Gains for the 168-day feeding period from May 7 to October 22
averaged 2.37 pounds a head daily for the cattle eating oats or oats
and corn. Similar steers getting only corn averaged 2.28 pounds daily.
Costs were slightly lower for the oat- fed cattle.
From May 7 until the end of July, the steers were on a good
grass-legume pasture. Those in each of two lots were fed six pounds
of grain. One got whole oats, the other ground ear corn. Gains in
both groups were about 2.3 pounds a head daily.
-more-
■
■'..'■ '.:
.
■•
•
.
• •'
Add Cattle Fattening Rations - 2
Beginning July 31, each lot was increased to a full-feed of
ground ear corn and soybean meal on pasture. One lot continued to get
six pounds of oats in the grain ration.
The final 56 days of the feeding trial, the steers were in
drylot. Ground ear corn then was replaced by ground shelled corn, and
the six pounds of oats were crushed or rolled for the oat- fed steers,
-30-
RAJ:Cm
4/28/58
V
• ■ . • • ■
.
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Basic Causes of Bloat Still Not Known
URBANA — Scientific research still has not made clear the
basic causes of bloat.
The search is continuing for bloat control that will permit
maximum use of succulent legume pastures and high-concentrate rations
without the risk of losing some animals to bloat, says R. E. Brown of
the University of Illinois.
Brown, a dairy scientist in the UI College of Agriculture,
says all new information coming from research is passed on to dairy
farmers as soon as it becomes available. These new measures need to be
thoroughly tested under farm and feedlot conditions before their value
is known.
One recent study in New Zealand shows effective control of
bloat in dairy cattle when pastures are sprayed with emulsified vege-
table or lard oils immediately before cows are permitted to graze,
Brown reports. Many New Zealand dairy farmers who strip-graze on
bloat-producing pastures have started routine use of this procedure.
Recent reports of tests from California and Iowa indicate
that one-fourth pound of soybean oil or emulsified lard oil per animal
will effectively control bloat when fed with grain or sprayed on pasture
or soilage just before grazing. This treatment must be repeated every
day when bloat is prevalent, because the oil does not stay on the plants*
Antibiotics are also being tested for their bloat-control
properties, Brown says. Penicillin, for instance, has been shown to be
-more-
■
■
•
.
"
■ ■'-■
•
■ ■ '
•
[I '
is
■
'
■
• ■ ■
" ■ •
Add Bloat Control - 2
iffective for nine to 10 days when fed at the rate of 100 milligrams
laily to each animal. Less control results when the penicillin is
dxed with salt at the rate of 50 milligrams per ounce and made avail-
able free choice. This method sometimes does not work because animals
rary widely in the amount of salt they eat.
Some cows go off feed and produce less milk when they first
get penicillin, the dairy scientist says. But they usually recover
on the second day if the dosage is no higher than 100 milligrams per
animal, serious digestive upsets can occur when high levels of anti-
biotics are fed.
Even though new measures look promising, dairymen should
still follow good management practices that have proved effective in
the past in controlling bloat, Brown says. For example, do not seed
more than 50 percent legumes in a pasture mix and , do not turn hungry
cows onto legume pasture. When cows graze legume pastures, watch
closely for the first signs of bloat so that if it does hit you can
start treatment immediately.
-30-
RA J: cm
4/28/58
.■•
- • •
' - .. . _ . .-.. ■
' ■ j ' •
■■'■.•'■•
. '• • - )b e.rj
■ ' ■ ' ■ '
.. .
■ ■-■'■ ■
.
.
I •■'-: ' . \
. ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Use Care in Handling Gasoline
URBANA — There's a lot. more to filling a tractor gas tank,
and doing it safely/ than just pouring in the fuel.
0. L, Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the University
of Illinois College of Agriculture, says that whenever gasoline comes
into contact with air, highly explosive vapors are formed, A pint of
gasoline mixed with air has the power of nearly eleven pounds of dyna-
mite. Careless handling of gasoline — overfilling the tank or spilling
the fuel — increases the chance of a dangerous, costly explosion and fire.
Gasoline vapors are three times as heavy as air and are in-
visible. This makes it important to have your tanks outside buildings
so that fumes cannot collect in large quantities.
Always shut off the tractor before fueling, and take special
care not to overfill the tank, Hogsett suggests. If you do spill gaso-
line on the tractor, wait at least ten minutes before starting the
engine so that the gasoline can evaporate.
-30-
OLHtcm
4/28/58
j
'
■
.'.■■■■"'•..."..
39fll<
."."'/ '■ . ' • a. '.' • ■ . . "
. • . ' ■ .. - ■' ■
-.■■:■■■ c ' . ■ • .
■ ' -- ■■ ■
•■ • "-..'■'
'•'-'■"' . . : ■■ . .
•.;•■• . i ■ •• .
: • • . • - ■ . ' '■' ' ": •
■'•' - - ' ' *"t: ' ' ■ i ' ?" ' • .;r
■ . ■ "
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Transplanting Vegetables to the Garden
by Noraan F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA — Many vegetables need transplanting in order to produce early
yields. In fact, some vegetables won't produce satisfactorily unless they are
transplanted.
The most commonly transplanted vegetables are tomatoes, peppers, broccoli,
cabbage, cauliflower, head lettuce, celery, eggplant and onions. Cucumber, musk-
melon or watermelon plants can also be set out, but they need more careful handling.
A home gardner with the proper equipment can get better plants for trans-
planting by growing his own. But he can also get good plants from nurseries, seed
stores, local greenhouses or other plant dealers.
When buying plants, select those that are stocky, medium-sized and free
from disease. Good root systems are extremely important. Plants should also be
hardened. Hardened plants have been subjected to cooler temperatures with less water
than usual. This makes them more hardy if temperatures should drop. But nurserymen
and home gardeners should be careful not to over-harden plants.
Don't buy plants that are tender, yellow, spindly, too large or diseased.
Disease can be suspected if there are brown or yellow spots on the leaves, or dark
brown cankers at the base of the stem.
When moving the plants from the container to the garden, keep as much soil
as possible around the roots. Best results are obtained when the plants are not dis-
turbed any more than necessary. Plants started in pots, bands or other similar con-
tainers can be transplanted to the field with less injury than plants grown in flats
3r boxes of soil.
-more-
.
•
-2-
To be transplanted successfully, cucumbers or melons must be started in
bands. When the band is removed, the soil remains intact and the root system is
not disturbed.
In transplanting, set plants slightly deeper than they grew in the pot
or flat. Cover the roots with a little soil, and pour about a cup of "starter
solution" into the hole around each plant before replacing the soil. Then pack
the soil firmly around the plant.
"Starter solutions" are concentrated, all-soluble fertilizers containing
a high phosphorus content. They are used to promote rapid growth and larger, earlier
yields. Starter solutions are special fertilizers in dry form, usually with an
analysis of about 10-52-17. They are sold by most garden, seed and supply stores.
Home gardeners can make their own by mixing one cup of 5-IO-5 or similar fertilizer in
a 12-quart pail of water.
Plant protectors, usually called hot caps or hot tents, are sometimes
used in early spring to protect vegetables from light frosts and cold winds. Put
them over the plants as soon as they have been transplanted if there is danger of
frost. As soon as all frost danger is past, open the protector gradually to harden
the plant.
.30.
PAC:cm
V28/58
'
•
'.
■
■
■
■
..
••
I
•'
i
I
.
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rabies Vaccination for Dogs Due June 1
URBANA — Under the Illinois Rabies Law, dogs must be vaccinatec
by June 1. After this date all stray dogs not wearing a current vac-
cination tag will be picked up, confined for at least seven days and
then disposed of if not claimed.
The Rabies Law was passed in 1953, and a control program was
begun in 1954. There was no significant decrease in the number of
rabies cases reported until 1955, when a drastic drop occurred among
dogs. There was also substantial decrease in the total number of cases
for all species, points out Dr. R. B. Barr of the University of Illi-
nois College of Veterinary Medicine.
Before 1955, about 250 cases of rabies were reported annually.
Over 50 percent of these cases were in dogs. In 1955, only 21 of the
reported 86 cases of rabies occurred in dogs. In 1956, dogs accounted
for 59 of 112 cases.
Ninety positive cases of rabies were reported from 45 counties
in 1957, according to figures released by the Illinois Department of
Public Health. Positive cases of rabies were found in 31 skunks, 21
dogs, 12 cats, 14 cattle, 4 squirrels, 2 raccoons, 2 foxes, 1 swine,
1 rat and 1 opossum.
With this changing pattern in view, says Dr. Barr, investi-
gations are being undertaken in the hope of finding some wild animals
that may act as reservoirs for the disease. At the University of Il-
linois, Drs. Barr and P. D. Beamer of the College of Veterinary Medicine
are working with Dr. C O. Mohr of the Illinois Natural History Survey
in research on rabies.
-30-
JER:cm
V30/58
, ■ .
' ' ' ..- ' ■ ■ ■ .' . ' •
■ ■ ■
■
■ ■ , ' ■': ■ ■
■
. • ■
n "■•• . • ■
• . . - ■ •
- .
Radio News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Poultry House Pays Off for Dierkes
URBANA — "I've always kept chickens on the place, but now I
raise them, " is Mrs, Henry Dierkes' explanation of her new poultry
project.
Instead of selling a case or two of eggs a week for grocery
money, this farm homemaker markets around 500 dozen eggs a week from
her farm home near Carlyle in Clinton county.
Last spring the Dierkes family invested nearly $6,000 in a
100 by 28 foot poultry house. This cost included the building itself,
1,200 leghorn pullets, automatic waterers, egg cooler, nests, lights
and self-feeders.
They expect the profits from this investment to pay off the
indebtedness the first year of operation, provided both egg production
and market prices hold up. The flock is averaging 85 percent produc-
tion now, and Mrs. Dierkes is netting better than $500 a month from her
birds.
Farm Adviser Bert Sinclair of Clinton county cooperated with
the Dierkes family in planning this poultry project.
-30-
_
RAJ: si
5/2/58
•■
■
•
•
■ . . ■•. ..."
t ■. • - • • ' ■ , i
■ ''.-."■ ■■ _ ■■
.
•
B
■
■■ ■
■
• . ■
•
1
; • • •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
First 1958 IFYEs Live on Illinois Farms
URBANA — Two young men from Latin America will arrive in Illi-
nois on May 3 to live and work with farm families under the Interna-
tional Farm Youth Exchange, They are Luis Marciano of Nicaragua and
Jose Peloso of Brazil,
Oren L. Whalin, associate professor of agricultural extension
in charge of the Illinois IFYE program, says that Peloso will live with
Mr. and Mrs, Chris Gergeni# Patoka/ Marion county, and Marciano will
live with Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Ziegler, Walnut, Bureau county, for the
first three weeks of their stay in Illinois, They will live with three
or four different farm families in this state.
These young men are part of a group of 23 exchangees from 12
Latin American countries who have just arrived in the United states,
where they will spend six months. While they are in Illinois the two
visitors will attend an exchangees' mid-point meeting at the University
of Illinois July 29 ? August 2. Marciano will then go to Wyoming, and
Peloso will go to Arkansas for the last half of their U, S, visit.
Marciano' s trip to the United States was made possible by a
grant to the National 4-H Foundation from the Olin-Mathieson Chemical
Corporation.
In their native countries, Marciano is a youth club assistant
in Nicaragua and has completed three years' study of general agriculture,
while Peloso has completed five years of secondary school in Brazil.
-more-
,
■ ■■ ■
■■■■■•■
i '
• ■
- .
. " XI ■ ' ■
* ... . ,••.•■;,.
-
... - • ' ' "
■ '
■
■ -
■
-
■ ■
■
Add 1958 IFYES - 2
This is the 10th year of the International Farm Youth Ex-
change, a people-to-people program conducted jointly by the National
4-H Foundation and the Cooperative Extension Service to promote better
understanding and friendship. Since the program began, Illinois has
sent 33 delegates abroad and in return has received 93 exchangees from
other countries. Nearly 300 Illinois farm families have served as
hosts to the exchangees,
-30-
RAJ: si
5/2/58
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Soil Moisture Generally Adequate; Western Illinois Short
URBANA — Soil moisture conditions in Illinois this spring are
generally good except for areas in western and northeastern Illinois.
D. B. Peters, soil and water conservation research supervi-
sor at the University of Illinois, reports that extreme western Illi-
nois has about a 20 percent soil moisture deficiency. This area covers
the part of the state west of a line drawn from Clinton, Iowa, to St.
Louis. This section seems to be in the most serious condition of any
in the state because it will have less chance to get more than the nor-
mal amount of rainfall from now on.
In the northern one-fifth of the state, soil moisture is
about 10 percent below normal. Peters does not believe this situation
is too serious, especially on the heavier textured soils.
In eastern Illinois, including Kankakee, Will, Grundy and
Livingston counties, the deficiency is about 20 percent. Here condi-
tions could become serious if future rainfall is short. However, rain-
fall in this section is usually heavy in May and June.
Farther south, in Champaign, Vermilion and Piatt counties,
the moisture deficiency is about 10 percent. This is not likely to
cause any problem for crops.
In the central part of the state, around Springfield and
Peoria, soil moisture conditions are normal, Peters reports.
-more-
■
n
■
■
i
■
-
■
■ -
■
Add Soil Moisture - 2
In the south-central area, below Springfield, moisture is
much above average, about the same situation as last year. The most
abundant area is Effingham, Clay, Marion, Jefferson and Wayne counties.
In fact, the real problem here will be to get the soils dry enough to
plant crops.
In the 12 southernmost counties, soil moisture is also about
normal.
These soil moisture determinations are made by Soil Conserva-
tion Service technicians on about 35 different types of soils around
the state. Soil samples are taken in mid-April at six- inch depth in-
tervals down to 51 inches at each sampling point. Then the determina-
tions are made in the laboratory at Urbana.
Peters points out that in most years soil moisture does not
build up after May 1. Plants and evaporation use up the soil moisture
faster than it is replenished by rainfall during the late spring and
summer. For this reason soil moisture conditions at this time are very
important to successful crop production.
-30-
HDGrsl
5/2/58
•
. .
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This Grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending May 2, 1958* )
Grain Market Steady to Strong Despite Large Supplies
URBANA — Despite large stocks, grain prices remained steady to stronger
during the week ending May 2, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff. Soybeans were unchanged, corn prices gained 1 cent,
new wheat remained unchanged and old wheat moved up 3 cents.
The first delivery day on May futures contracts in Chicago was last Wednes-
day. There were moderate deliveries of soybeans and oats, but no wheat or corn. De-
liveries generally indicate relative supplies of the various grains.
Soybean supplies in Chicago, at processing plants and in country elevators
are very large for this time of year. It now looks as if they will remain plentiful
for the rest of the season. Prices are now equal to the price at which CCC will sell
beans taken over under the loan and in some cases are up to 5 cents higher. The
market withstood the impact of deliveries very well.
Free stocks of corn at Chicago are less than half as large as stocks a
year ago. Downstate Illinois prices are much too high in relation to Chicago for
corn to move in for delivery. The relative abundance of free corn shown by the April
stocks reports is not showing up in the market.
These large supplies appear to be located west of the Mississippi. A corn
price rise is likely unless increasing supplies move east from Iowa, Nebraska and
Minnesota or CCC sales increase.
Old crop wheat prices moved up 3 cents a bushel, partly because of rain
in Texas that threatened to delay harvest. Very small deliverable supplies in Chi-
cago and the large number of unsatisfied May contracts also gave added strength.
Whether old crop supplies will be sufficient to last until new crop wheat becomes
-more-
it ' . . ■ ■ u
. ■
■
• . ••• • ■■"..''
• ■.
•■•;.■ •■■'-''
i
IJ ' * '• . . .•
.!
. . ■
-2-
available is the "big question. The situation is very delicately "balanced, so we
may expect to see rather erratic price changes in May vheat until the contract
closes out on May 20.
It may he that nev crop vheat prices are being held up by the tightness
in old crop and will continue their decline once the May contract is settled,
Hieronymus points out. The crop is very large, and much of it is not eligible for
loan. On the other hand, prices are already well below the loan.
-30-
HDG:dm
5-2-58
.
-I
■
.
v
. ■ -. .
»
'
'
.
i
: -
• -
-,
■ • • - :
-1 ' I I
.'
.
■
, . - t
■ ■ ; . ...■■■
■ . , -
I
. I -
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Be Careful When Using Insecticides
URBANA — Dusting or spraying with insecticides may do much to
promote the healthy growth of fruits and vegetables. But it often has
just the opposite effect on people.
Even though the container may not be labeled poison, many
of these substances are harmful to man, says o. L. Hogsett, extension
safety specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Take special precautions, whenever you use fumigants or in-
secticides, never to breathe the fumes, vapors or dust. It's a good
idea not to dust or spray on windy days. With some dusts and sprays a
safety mask is required.
Always be especially careful to label all insecticide con-
tainers so that you won't, mistake them for something else. And be sure
to keep them out of the reach of children.
Here are some common- sense rules that should always be
followedr
1. Follow manufacturer's directions for handling, mixing
and applying.
2. Always dust or spray with the wind.
3. Wear respirators where there is danger of inhaling fumes.
4. Wear gloves, a long-sleeved shirt and other clothing to
^over as much skin area as you can.
5. Wash your hands and other exposed parts of your body
:horoughly with soap and water after using insecticides.
6. Store poisonous materials in a safe place.
7. Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables that have been
sprayed or dusted before you eat them.
-30-
)LH:cm
1/5/58
.-..■■■ Zl
.
■ .
■ ■ ■
- ■ • ■ : ■■■' • *-..'•
. ■ •■■'.'*
- ■-
■
.
■ • i
■
•
■
. • ■ ■
■■
■
■
': '
: '
- ' -
•
.
•.•
s
i •■■ ■.-..'■ • '.'
«
•'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lindstrom Cites Social Changes in Rural Life
URBANA — A University of Illinois rural sociologist reported
this week that city life, with all its glamour, does not seem to pro-
vide the satisfaction to be found in a modern home on a small piece of
land near a progressive village.
D. E. Lindstrom says that many people obviously want to get
away from mass society and live in a small community, where they can
be recognized as individuals. They may earn their living in the city,
but they want to make their home in the small suburban or "rurban"
community.
Lindstrom cited some changes in rural life that need to be
recognized. Farming has become mechanized and today leans heavily on
science. Family farming will continue, but the operator will need to
stay in close touch with newest, scientific changes. Some families will
:arry on part-time farming and thus obtain values not. available through
)ther occupations.
The farm population now comprises only 12 percent of our
:otal population, compared with 65 percent 100 years ago. But during
he past seven years, Lindstrom points out, total rural population has
ncreased by about four million persons. The farm family is now more
ike the town family than ever before.
The social structure of the neighborhood and the rural
ommunity are changing. Neighborhood life has become more informal,
ew leaders come in when large population shifts occur in a community.
-more-
■
.
. -
■
I
. . . 'V.
: -
'
:
•'
' -
■
! '
• • •
. ■ .
i
■
• -•-
.
'
: ' • •
• ■:,.■■■■
Add Social Changes - 2
Institutions of the community are also changing. This move-
ment began with the development of community schools. Because local
government still holds to the township or county form, rural people
face a vast and dangerous encroachment of federal and state govern-
mental services and controls, Lindstrom points out. A grouping of
these emerging rural municipalities may be in order.
Lindstrom presented these points in an address before the
Training Conference for Town and Country Pastors at Rye, New York, on
Friday, May 9. The meeting was sponsored jointly by the National
Council of Churches and the Farm Foundation.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/5/58
■
I"* ■*
:
'.'■■■ '
I .
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
World Corn Bank Does Steady Business at University of Illinois
URBANA — seed corn is moving from a University of Illinois
stockpile to all parts of the country and the world this spring. But
this corn is much different from what Illinois farmers are planting.
The stockpile from which this corn comes is the world's
largest collection of corn and carries many different genetic traits.
This corn bank is technically called "The Maize Cooper ative." Its
chief customers are plant breeders in commercial corn companies, experi-
ment stations and universities in this country and throughout the world,
Seed is also supplied to physiologists and biochemists for their
research.
The "deposits" in the corn bank include seed corn carrying
more than 100 different traits in thousands of different combinations.
Earl Patterson, assistant professor of agronomy, has the
job of keeping accurate records, collecting, evaluating and maintaining
the seed stocks, doing research that will develop new combinations and
distributing seed as requested. Patterson grew up in Nebraska and com-
pleted his Ph.D degree in plant genetics at California Institute of
Technology before coming to the University of Illinois.
After completing the distribution of all seed requests for
spring planting, Patterson then grows a portion of the stocks each
year to maintain adequate supplies of seed. He grows about 25,000
plants each season at the Agronomy South Farm in Urbana. He keeps in-
dividual plant pedigrees. All ears are hand-pollinated.
-more-
'
'
.
.
.
Add World Corn Bank - 2
Seed stocks are kept in file drawers at room temperature.
They will remain viable for about five years. This time may be
lengthened considerably if the seed is kept in cold storage, Patterson
points out.
Some of the traits in the collection date back nearly 50
years. Corn with simply inherited traits for color, height, leaf and
stalk characteristics were first brought together from different sources
by Professor R. A. Emerson at Cornell University beginning about 1940.
When Emerson died in 1948, Professor M. M. Rhoades, Univer-
sity of Illinois geneticist, accepted responsibility for maintaining
the collection at the University of Illinois.
Since the seed bank was established here, most other collec-
tions have been discontinued. Support for this work comes from the
U. S. Department of Agriculture and the UI Department of Agronomy.
-30-
HDGtcm
5/5/58
FOR RELEASE 4 p.m. MAY 9, 1958
Veterinarians Find Radiation Sterilization of Food Useful
URBANA — Preservation of food by radiation sterilization (cold
sterilization) may become an alternative to cooking and canning, freez-
ing, salting and drying, according to University of Illinois veteri-
narians.
After six months of research at the College of Veterinary
Medicine, Drs. J. P. Kreier, E. F# Reber, Om P. Malhotra and P. D.
Beamer have found that beef preserved by irradiation is wholesome.
In a paper presented today (May 9) at the 51st Annual Meeting
of the Illinois State Academy of science in Urbana, Dr. Kreier said.
"The dose level which kills or inactivates food spoilage organisms
does not cause great changes in the physical character of the irradiated
food, nor does it induce residual radiation."
The sterilizing dose may be applied after the food has been
placed in a sealed container. Sources of radiation for sterilization
at a reasonable cost are provided by radioactive wastes from nuclear
reactors and nuclear power stations.
There are some chemical changes induced in irradiation steri-
lized food, Dr. Kreier added. Before this process can be released for
commercial use, it. is necessary to prove that none of the changed food
constituents are toxic.
Twelve dogs are used in the two-year experiment designed to
test irradiated ground beef for wholesomeness. Beef is sealed in No.
10 cans and sterilized by irradiation.
-more-
•■-■ ' ■
, ■ , - • ■ .
• ' ■ • -
-
■
.'.'■■
■
Irradiated Beef
Ground beef makes up 35 percent of the total solids of a
omplete balanced ration. Dogs are fed rations containing non-
rradiated beef or irradiation sterilised beef. Data are recorded on
weekly body weights, daily food consumption and monthly blood analysis.
Body-weight differences between the groups were not signifi-
antly different after the feeding experiment had been in progress 24
weeks. Food consumed by the dogs receiving irradiated beef was signifi-
cantly less than for those receiving non- irradiated beef. Blood
analysis of the animals in the different groups revealed no differences.
No unusual sickness or disease has occurred in the dogs re-
ceiving irradiated beef, according to the veterinarians.
-30-
JER : cm
5/6/58
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending May 9, 1958)
Favorable Planting Conditions Weaken Corn and Soybean Prices
URBANA — New crop corn and soybean prices weakened this past week because
of favorable planting conditions, reports T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illi-
nois grain marketing staff. Wheat and corn prices dropped one cent and soybeans
1 1/2 cents. Bids to farmers were about $2 for new crop soybeans and 98 cents for
ew corn. Old crop prices were stronger.
These prices are about equal to last season's lows. It seems a trifle
arly to be so optimistic about crops and so pessimistic about prices, Hieronymus
oints out.
Low price estimates may be more justified for soybeans than for corn.
armers1 soybean planting intentions indicate a substantial increase over last year,
ut last year we had abnormally high yields.
If yields of corn, oats, barley and grain sorghums equal the average for
he last five years and farmers carry out their March 1 planting intentions,
ieronymus estimates a feed grain production of 123 million tons. In 1957 the
otal was 1*4-2 million tons, and the 195^-57 average was 131 million. We have been
ing over 130 million tons a year for several years.
Since the USDA intentions report, more funds have become available for
he Soil Bank. This means that corn acreage will probably be lower than estimated,
ield reports indicate a relatively high rate of compliance with acreage allotments,
is may further reduce corn acreage.
Free corn supplies in Chicago remain short. Prices for immediate delivery
re 1 cent higher than for July shipment.
-more-
• .' ■
■. '
■.
' • ■' ■ - .
...
• ■
• . ■ -
• ; '
■ ■ . •
-
-2-
The key to corn prices in the immediate future continues to depend on the
size of shipments from Nebraska, Iowa and Minnesota to Mississippi River markets and
Peoria, St. Louis and Chicago. If these shipments increase, Illinois corn prices
will probably suffer.
Soybeans are caught between the support price and the CCC resale price.
This leaves practically no room for change. For the first time since price ceilings,
soybean bids have failed to change in 8 days. The only question is at what price
CCC will sell. It is apt to be under current prices by as much as 3 cents. Now
does not seem to be a good time to hold soybeans that are not in the loan program,
Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/9/58
.
.
-
■
. .
i , ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Good Hay Cuts Winter Feed Bills
URBANA — Cut winter dairy feed bills with high-quality hay.
Quality is important because it influences the amount and
kind of high-priced supplemental feed that must be bought, says Leo R.
Fryman, extension dairy specialist at the University of Illinois Col-
lege of Agriculture.
Most of the feeding value in legume hay is in the leaves,
Fryman points out. For example, alfalfa leaves contain 20-25 percent
protein, while the stems contain less than 9 percent.
Loss of leaves in making hay results in lost protein feed
and less total yield. For that reason, it's highly important to get
those leaves into the barn.
Fryman suggests that one of the most important ways to get
high-quality hay is to cut the crop early. Cut legumes in the early-
bloom stage. From first to one-tenth bloom is about right for alfalfa.
Crops cut for hay later than that lose their leaves easily.
Rake green hay while it is still moist and tough, and finish
drying in the windrow or with a barn dryer. Hay that is completely dry
before raking loses its leaves easily also.
Leaving the hay in the field exposed to sun for several days
cuts down the feeding value of the crop, and a hard rain will shatter
many leaves. Watch the long-range weather forecasts closely to help
decrease the danger of rain on your cut hay.
Use of a hay crusher will speed drying time and further reduce
the danger of having rain hit your drying hay. Crushing sometimes will
cut drying time in half.
-30-
RAj:cm
V8/58
•
,
•
.
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Injectable Iron Makes Good Anemia Preventive
URBANA — Swine growers who switch to year-round farrowing
probably should also switch at the same time to routine iron injections
for their pigs to prevent anemia. Anemia is not something that happens
only to winter- farrowed pigs. It can happen any time pigs spend their
first few weeks on concrete or wooden floors away from dirt, says
G. R. Carlisle, extension livestock specialist at the University of
Illinois.
Carlisle believes injectable iron is well worth the cost —
about 25 cents a pig. All pigs that do not have access to dirt are
subject to anemia until they start eating feed.
LaVerne "Dutch" Johnson, DeKalb county, Illinois, swine grower.
: says he wouldn't consider raising his pigs now without using injectable
iron. It's the best way known today to prevent pig anemia, he says,
if used by the time pigs are two or three days old.
Pigs can still suffer lower weight gains from anemia and not
show any signs of it when given iron by mouth, Carlisle points out.
Studies have shown that blood levels of anemia-preventing compounds are
higher when injectable iron is used than when iron is given orally.
Since only one injectable iron treatment is needed, farmers
are not so apt to neglect it because they get busy with other jobs as
when daily treatments are needed.
-30-
RAJrcm
5/9/58
• - ■ . • . •
• . ■..■-••-
" • " ' ■ ' ■■•
..... ... . • -'.
:
i
■
.
.. .
.
-
■ •■ ■
. - . •■ ■
■
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mulching Helps Your Vegetable Garden
by Norman F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA- -Mulching the soil around your garden vegetables helps to conserve
moisture, prevent erosion and control weeds. Mulching also keeps the soil cool in
hot weather, keeps the surface loose and friable, often adds organic matter to the
soil and prevents vegetables from becoming spattered with mud.
A cool soil is especially helpful in Illinois because high temperatures
in midsummer often prevent proper development of roots of some vegetables.
Mulching is simply covering the soil with some protective material. Good
materials for mulching include leaves, grass cuttings, peat moss, sawdust, ground
corncobs, straw, hay, shavings, aluminum foil, paper and polyethylene plastic.
Apply the mulch on the soil after plants are well established. It is
advisable to cultivate once or twice before mulching. Then you will not need to
cultivate again that season.
Spread the material evenly over the soil surface between the rows and
around the plants. Mulch thickness will depend on the material and its cost. Such
mulches as leaves or straw are usually three or four inches deep. A mulch of peat
moss, shavings or wood chips is seldom more than two inches thick.
Newspapers eight or ten sheets thick also make a fairly good mulch. Use
small stones or a band of soil along the outer edge to hold the papers in place.
Aluminum foil is sometimes used in the same way. Black polyethylene plastic is a
new idea in mulches that appears promising for the home garden. Sheets of the
plastic are laid over the garden soil, and vegetables are planted through holes in
the material.
-more -
, .
•
.
'
. • ■■
- .
. ■ :
■
'■.
■
'
'
1
• )
•
i
■
.
■ -
.
i
-2-
Plastic tends to warm the soil rather than cool it. This is an advan-
tage early in the season, but a disadvantage later. Plastic works best in midsummer
on such crops as tomatoes that will shade the mulch surface. This shading will
prevent the soil from becoming too warm.
Most mulches, except aluminum and plastic, cause a nitrogen deficiency
to develop. This deficiency develops because the organism causing organic matter
(mulching material) to decompose uses nitrogen. That's why it's a good idea to
apply extra nitrogen before mulching. When plants tend to have light green or
yellowish leaves, apply about ^ pound of ammonium nitrate or one pound of nitrate
of soda per 100 square feet.
-30-
PAC:dm
5-9-58
■
Farm News
VERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Grain Dealers' Bookkeeping School, June 9-13
URBANA — The second Grain Dealers* Bookkeeping School will be
leld at the University of Illinois from June 9 to 13. L. F stice, exten-
sion economist in marketing, says the school is open to anyone who
wishes to learn about accounting as it applies to the grain elevator
and supply business. A similar school was held in December 1956.
During the five-day school, students will organize a set of
books, make typical entries, take trial balances, close books and pre-
pare end-of-year statements. Cost for materials, machine rental and
other expenses will be $15 a person.
Students will be able to stay in University residence halls,
in local hotels or motels or in private homes near the campus. Cost
of rooms and meals will be in addition to the registration fee.
All those interested in the school should write to L. F.
5tice, Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Illinois,
Jrbana.
-30-
iDGtsl
1/9/58
. -•
•/'••., t J - ' •
, : • •• . ■ ••. •'•.■;
i . ': ■■'< ' $
■■-, . ■ ■ .J -
• p ■ '■••'" .'■.*.'■■
•,• .= -. . . , ' ■• ■• .' '" '■'
" ■ ••'. • •• ■ ■ ••'
ill ! •€
\*
■ ■.
. ■ .• '. : :••";.- ' "' ■' • • " ' ■
.
.
■ • •- •••.■' ; '
■
• • • •:■■•
' : . ' ■
'
.
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Horizontal Silos Need Tight Covers
URBANA — Silage needs to be tightly covered in order to keep
well in a horizontal silo,
D. G. Jedele, extension agricultural engineer at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture, says that most of the dis-
appointing results farmers have had with trench, bunk and other hori-
zontal silos and stacks come from poor packing and air leaks.
Modern plastic sheeting is one good way to seal off air and
keep spoilage to a minimum, says Jedele, USDA experiments, for instance,
have shown nearly as good results with tightly sealed horizontal silos
as with upright silos.
Only five percent spoilage resulted in one test stack covered
with a four-millimeter polyethylene sheet with heat-sealed seams.
This plastic cover was weighted down with soil only at the edges and
center of the stack.
Neoprene- coated nylon and vinyl sheets also worked well when
tightly sealed. One vinyl plastic cover failed because the seams were
sealed only with pressure- sensitive tape. The seams puckered with time,
and 31 percent of the original silage was lost. However, most plastic
sheets are now available in wide sheets so that seams are unnecessary.
-30-
RAjrcm
5/12/58
*
. ' :• ' - .„ . ■ .>• .
■'
-.. .
11
■ "
-
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farmers Won't Escape Effects of Current Recession
URBANA — A panel of four University of Illinois agricultural
economists today expressed the feeling that farmers will not escape
the effects of the current business recession.
The economists emphasize that farm prices are high now be-
cause supplies of livestock, fresh fruits and vegetables, and eggs are
lower than they were a year ago.
Red meat supplies have dropped from their 1956 peak of 167
pounds per person annually to a rate of slightly over 140 pounds annu-
ally in recent months, the economists point out. Except for 1951 and
1942, this is the lowest level for red meat since the 1930* s.
Hard winter freezes in the South were the major cause of
skyrocketing fresh fruit and vegetable prices. Egg production is down,
and prices have moved higher.
Farm Prices to Drop
So far this supply situation has kept farm prices at favorable
levels. When increased supplies of farm products come to market, some
price reductions can be expected. Future trends in consumer income
and purchasing power will have important effects on farm prices.
Cattle numbers on feed have built up in recent months for
several reasons. Many farmers had wet corn they wanted to move out.
Others have a regular feeding program that calls for longer feeding
and sale off pasture. Some were no doubt encouraged to hold as prices
dropped back from their highest peak in seven years. Hog prices seem
-more-
Add Recession - 2
to be in a less vulnerable position, but the traditional summer and
midwinter lows in marketings may be filled in during the coming year.
Meat supplies available to consumers will increase more than usual by
next winter, the economists predict.
During the next 6 to 12 months, farmers can expect to see
the all-farm price average drop below the present level. The economists
point out that in the 1954 recession farm prices hit their low point
about 16 months after the low point in industrial production. A similar
trend could occur again.
Consumers Have Suffered
While farmers have benefited from smaller supplies and prices
have risen, consumers have suffered about a two percent cut in spending
power on the average. Recent unemployment figures show about 5.2 mil-
lion persons out of work. But these figures show only those unemployed
at one time. It's generally agreed that while some workers go back to
work, others may become unemployed. So, during 1958, it's possible
that 8 to 10 million families may suffer some effects of unemployment
and smaller incomes.
While incomes have been cut, these families have built up
debts. It's often a year after they go back to work before they can
return to their normal spending patterns.
Inflation is one of the most serious dangers in attempts to
bring an early end to the current economic situation, the panel agreed.
There are strong political pressures for high wages and higher price
supports for farm products. The clamor for the government to spend
more money and actions by Congress in this direction point to further
inflation.
-more-
.
.
'
.
.
..
'
.
■
•
.
Add Recession - 2
- - — -r
and retirement benefits. It cuts purchasing power of the dollar for
everyone. The fear of inflation and rising prices could serve as a
buying stimulus in itself, the economists pointed out.
What Farmers Can Do
Even though current prices seem especially good, the econo-
mists stress that this is a time when caution and sound decisions are
just as important as ever.
Buying on credit should be done with the expectation that
prices of grain and livestock will be lower 6 to 12 months from now.
Feeder pig and cattle purchases in the immediate future should be made
with caution.
Farmers can also watch carefully for signs of continued in-
flation. Further spending by government, rising prices of the things
needed in. the farm business and higher prices of food and household
items are all signals. During inflationary times, ownership of land,
livestock and capital goods is a sounder investment than holding money
that is losing its purchasing power.
The panel of agricultural economists who expressed these
views before a panel of agricultural editors consisted of H. G. Halcrow,
head of the department of agricultural economics; T. A. Hieronymus,
G. L. Jordan and L. H. Simerl.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/12/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Newspapers Rate High for Farm News
URBANA — Newspapers rated at the top as the source of news
about the recent Farm and Home Festival sponsored by the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture.
A survey taken among Festival visitors by agricultural exten-
sion editors showed that 73 percent had learned about the Festival
through newspapers, other sources were radio, 44 percent; television,
40 percent; farm and home advisers, 40 percent; mail 38 percent; farm
bureau papers, 35 percent; neighbors or friends, 23 percent; meetings,
20 percent; agriculture or home economics teachers 16 percent; and
posters, 15 percent.
Visitors also voted unanimously in favor of the College of
Agriculture holding another Festival in the future, of those surveyed,
98 percent said they would like to see another one.
Estimated attendance for the three-day event totaled more
than 15,000. College of Agriculture staff members feel that the size
of attendance alone is a good indicator of Festival popularity compared
with the old Farm and Home Week which was replaced. by the Festival. In
recent years Farm and Home Week registration had ranged from 3,500 to
4,000 for a four-day program.
The Festival also brought many people to the University campus
for the first time. The survey showed that 38 percent had never
attended a meeting on the campus before. More than half had never
attended Farm and Home Week.
Of those who had attended Farm and Home Week, 69 percent
thought the festival was more interesting, only 8 percent thought it
was less interesting. The remaining 23 percent saw little difference
between the Festival and Farm and Home Week or had no opinion.
-30^-
HDGrcm
5/12/58
r
- ■ .
-
- ■
i
..
•
• . !
.
.
v
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Hints for Better Tomato Production
by Norman F. Oebker
Vegetable Crops Specialist, University of Illinois
UR3ANA — At least a few tomato plants are a must in every home garden. To-
matoes are easy to grow and will thrive under a wide range of conditions if they re-
ceive proper care. If you want high-quality, large tomatoes from your garden, these
pointers will help you:
First select a well- drained fertile soil. If you are uncertain about what
nutrients your soil needs for tomato production, send a soil sample to the Univer-
sity of Illinois for testing. The UI soil testers will recommend the proper ferti-
lizers for your soil. Send the soil sample to Soil Testing Laboratory, Floriculture
Building, Urbana. There is a charge of $1.00 for each sample.
When selecting tomato plants, choose short, stocky plants rather than tall,
spindly ones. Also, select varieties that have proved they will grow well in your
area. And if you plant both an early and a midseason variety, you'll have tomatoes
throughout the season. The following varieties are recommended for Illinois:
Early: Sioux, Moreton Hybrid, and Urbana.
Midseason: Improved Garden State, Rutgers, Big Boy, Boone, Brookston,
Manalucie, and Kokomo.
iWhen transplanting the tomato plants to the garden, use a plant starter
olution. "Starter solutions" are concentrated, all- soluble fertilizers having a
high phosphorus content. They promote rapid early growth and larger, earlier yields.
You can make your own starter solution by mixing one cup of 5-10-5 or similar fer-
tilizer in a 12- quart pail of water. Pour about 1/2 pint of this solution around
the roots of each plant.
Try to keep the soil on the roots when you transplant. The soil around
the roots holds moisture and nutrients that help the plants get off to a good start.
'
. ■-■
.
-
■
-
-2-
Por good yields, space the plants about two or three feet apart in the
rows. And space the rows about three or four feet apart. Control all weeds, be-
cause they compete with the tomatoes for plant nutrients and moisture. Insect and
disease control is also necessary for successful tomato production.
-30-
PAC:sl
5/12/58
.••--.. . • ■ ■ ■
'.. '. • 3WO'
. —■..:' : ■ . •
3 -.-.. .. ;. .: ... ::*: • "..'.:■ •.. -s ' ■
. -• . -• ■ ■ . . ■ . ■ ■ ■ ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
irradiation May Revolutionize Grain storage
URBANA — Radiation of grains can control insect infestation.
Dr. E. F. Reber, University of Illinois College of Veterinary
Medicine, says that this appears to be a promising field for the peace-
ful application of atomic energy products.
Tremendous amounts of grain are lost throughout the world
because of insect infestation, says Dr. Reber. Preventing this loss
would mean better nutrition for people in many nations as well as a
saving of millions of dollars.
Adult granary weevil and flour beetles can be exterminated
by irradiation. Surprisingly low doses of radiation will sterilize the
eggs of these insects and prevent further reproduction by the adult.
Drs. Reber, 0. P. Malhotra, J. P. Kreier, H. W. Norton and
P. D. Beamer, after six months of research at the College of Veterinary
Medicine, report that changes in wheat or flour due to such irradiation
treatments are small.
Twelve dogs are being used in a two-year experiment designed
to test the nutritive value and wholesomeness of irradiated flour. This
flour makes up 35 percent of the total solids of a complete balanced
ration fed to the dogs. Some dogs are also being fed rations contain-
ing non- irradiated flour as a check.
Data are recorded weekly on body weights, daily on food con-
sumption and monthly on blood analysis. There have been no significant
differences in initial weight, average weight gained and amount of food
-more-
-•:
■
.•
■
'
Add Grain Irradiation - 2
eaten by the dogs fed irradiated and those fed non- irradiated flour.
Blood analysis of the groups also did not show any differences.
No unusual sickness or disease has occurred in the dogs re-
ceiving irradiated flour, according to the research workers.
Wheat irradiated to exterminate granary weevils and flour
beetles was wholesome under the conditions of this short-term experi-
ment , says Dr. Reber.
Radiation processing may be used for commercial sterilization
of food after enough research has shown that such foods are wholesome.
Sources of radiation for sterilization at reasonable cost are provided
by radioactive wastes from nuclear reactors and nuclear power stations.
-30-
JERzcm
5/13/58
■ s '■■ i - : .
:
" :
•
■
; . . ..
- ' . "
\
.
ori'o ' .
..- ■ ' ■ ■ " ■; ." .. . ■■ ■ - . ■
■
A»w£
Farm News
IIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Shelby County PHI A Brings Total To 94
URBANA — Organization of the Shelby County Dairy Herd Improve-
ment Association in April brings the total number of associations in
Illinois to 94 with a membership of nearly 1,700 dairymen.
The Shelby County association was organized by 20 cooperating
dairymen who were interested in improving the production efficiency of
their herds, Roger Keim, Columbia, Illinois, has been employed as
supervisor of this newest DHIA.
Dairymen enrolled in the DHIA program obtain production and
feed records on every cow in their herds. By keeping records on each
cow, DHIA members can cull unprofitable cows, feed according to produc-
tion and adopt a constructive breeding program, says Ralph Johnson,
extension dairy specialist at the University of Illinois College of
Agriculture,
A dairy herd improvement association may be organized in any
county where a sufficient number of dairymen are interested in improving
their herds, Johnson points out,
-30-
RAJtcm
! 5/15/58
. ■ . ; .
ci . " ' .
' . • - ;
... ..
• ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Two Young Farmers From India Visit Illinois
URBANA — C. P. N. Singh, 20, and V. S. Ingle, 27, both farmers
in their native India, are in Illinois for three months of living and
working with farm families.
Both of these young farmers are in the International Farm
Youth Exchange program sponsored by the Cooperative Extension Service
of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Singh will spend the first two weeks of his visit on the farm
of Mr. and Mrs. James Frazier, Charleston, Coles county. Ingle will
first visit the farm of Mr. and Mrs. Vearl Schuldt of Stockton, Jo
Daviess county.
After visiting with two more farm families in different parts
of the state, they will join exchangees from other countries who are
in the United states this year at the annual mid-point meeting at the
University of Illinois from July 21 to August 2. Following that meeting
they will go to the state of Washington for another three months on
farms there before returning to India about November 5.
Singh lives on and manages a 500-acre farm in the foothills
of the Himalaya mountains in the state of uttar Pradesh in northern
India. Two hundred acres of the farm are irrigated, and the chief
crops are sugar cane, wheat, rice and corn. Major livestock enterprises
are 12 cows and 14 water buffalo.
Ingle lives on a 120-acre farm in central India, of which 20
acres are irrigated. He grows fruit, wheat and jwar and has six bul-
locks, six water buffalo and 50 white Leghorns on his farm.
Five Illinois farm young people will live and work on farms
in other lands this year in the IFYE program. Since this two-way ex-
change of farm young people started in 1948, 33 Illinois delegates
have taken part out of about 887 from the total United States.
-30-
RAjtcm
i 5/15/58
. .
i p fi k •
...... .8 .V bnfi ,
. . . til.tl i .. ' . .
■
...
. ' ' ' • .
...'•• I
• . " . . • ■■ hn - .'
. ' ' •' ■ ■ . i • . - ■■■■■'■
• .
; nxoj - ■'
■ .•-••■
■
■
• .
r<
, ..
• ■ - ' ■ ; . ■ ■ . . •■ ■ :
■
i£
•
■•
.
■ ■ ■■
"•
It
■
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Use Plastic Sheets for Low-Cost Shelter
URBANA — Agricultural engineers at the University of Illinois
have developed a low-cost livestock shelter using plastic sheets over
a simple steel frame.
Framework for these shelters is ordinary steel fence posts
with angle irons welded across the top for rafters, says E. L. Hansen,
in charge of farm building planning and development for the UI College
of Agriculture,
These frames are driven into the ground six feet apart, and
pieces of 2" x 2** lumber are run across the top for bracing. Black
polyethylene plastic sheets are used for cover.
Shelters made at the University of Illinois are 13 feet wide
and 6 or 7 feet high, depending on the length of fence post used. They
can be any length. Cost has been about 13 cents a square foot of floor
space. Hansen says the shelters are excellent for calves, sheep, hogs and
poultry, but are probably not rugged enough for full-grown cattle.
These shelters can be moved easily and quickly by removing the
cover in sections, unbolting the rafters at the peak and pulling out.
the stakes.
Get details on the University of Illinois structures by writ-
ing to the Department of Agricultural Engineering, Urbana. Ask for
Farm Buildings Tip Sheet No. 8, "A Low-Cost Shelter."
-30-
RA J: cm
5/15/58
■ . ...
■ ■
' --■■'■■■
.
. '
.
. .
.
■ •
■ •..
■
■
! ' L
'
■
B A" . '■ ■
•fd
•
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Japanese Dollar Shortage Hurting U. S. Soybean Exports
URBANA — Two University of Illinois agricultural economists
today reported that a severe dollar shortage in Japan may result in the
loss of an 11-mi 11 ion-bushel sale of soybeans by American growers.
Japan may buy from Communist China instead.
C. P. Schumaier and E. R. Berg point out that American soy-
bean exports to Japan are falling behind those of a year ago. In re-
cent years Japan has been buying increasing amounts, reaching a peak
of almost 25 million bushels in the 1956-57 marketing season.
The economists believe that Japan would prefer to buy all the
soybeans she needs in the United States if more dollars were available.
But she can get dollars only from sales of Japanese products and
services to us. Japan now ranks first as a buyer of American farm
products.
It's true that the United states is already Japan's best cus-
tomer. In 1957 we bought almost $600 million worth of Japanese exports,
But we sold $1,600 million worth of U. S. exports to Japan — more than
2 1/2 times as much.
In recent years part of this deficit has been made up by
purchases made by our armed forces in Japan and Korea. But last year
these "special earnings" covered only about half of the deficit. So
Japan had to dip into her "rainy-day" reserves of foreign exchange.
-more-
Add Japanese Dollar Shortage - 2
Schumaier and Berg emphasize that foreign countries must be
permitted access to American markets if we are to sell our farm sur-
pluses abroad. The Reciprocal Trade Act extension now being considered
in Congress has led to a gradual opening of our markets to foreign
countries.
Defeat of the Reciprocal Trade Act would restore the very
high tariff levels of 1930. Partly because of these high tariffs,
agricultural exports declined by 2/3 from the 1920' s to the 1930 's. They
were also one cause of disastrously low farm prices in the early
1930* s, the economists pointed out.
-30-
HDGtcm
5/15/58
.
i
'
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Note to Editor: This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by
the University of Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending May l6, 195^0
Wide Spread Between Old and New Wheat; Corn Subsidy Program Begins
URBANA— -The relatively high wheat price is caused by a shortage of old
crop wheat in the free market channels. The price is not high enough to allow the
government to sell its wheat, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of
Illinois grain marketing staff.
If the free wheat supply is just a little short of needs before the new
crop comes in, the price will need to go up, he explains. If there is just a little
more than is needed, some will take considerable losses because new wheat prices
are now about 50 cents below old crop.
This delicately balanced situation comes about because it is difficult to
figure exactly how much wheat is on hand, how much is needed for milling and export
and when new wheat will be available. This explains the erratic movement of May
futures, which jumped around over a five -cent range this past week. May contract
trading ends on May 20, after which all open contracts will have to be settled by
delivery.
New wheat prices have remained stable for several days at their seasonal
low. An overwhelming supply is in prospect. A total winter and spring crop of 1.26
billion bushels seems likely. Current annual use is about 980 million bushels, so
the carryover a year from now could jump by 25O to 300 million bushels.
It is uncertain whether current prices for new wheat are low enough to
draw enough wheat into loan and force prices back up. Prices have not yet gone so
far below the loan as they have in some other years of large crops. A large acreage
grown outside of allotments must sell on the open market. The tight supply situa-
tion involving the old crop may have imparted some strength to the new crop.
-more-
,:N
' . • • •
. ■■■
.
• '■
'
'
■
•
.
'■-.'.'■ - • ; • '
: . .. ' -
-
.
-
-2-
The corn export subsidy program -which "began this past week is paying 12
to 13 cents a bushel. The big question in the next 90 days will be how much corn
CCC will sell at interior markets now that it has withdrawn from the export market.
Market supplies are scarce, and bids for immediate delivery are firm in relation
to bids for deferred shipment.
HDG:cm
5/16/58
■ ■
-
Note to Editors: Would you tell us whether you are able to make use of this gar-
den column in your paper. We would also appreciate any suggestions you may have
for improving it. If you would write your answers on the attached self-addressed
card, we would appreciate it very much.
Extension Editors
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Zoysia Grass Grows Well in Illinois
by H. R. Kemmerer and F. F. Weinard
Department of Horticulture, University of Illinois
URBANA— Zoysia, a warm-weather grass, has been grown in the southern area
of the United States for several years. However, a new hybrid strain, Meyer Z-52
Zoysia, has been developed that will grow well in southern and central Illinois.
Although Meyer Zoysia looks somewhat like Kentucky bluegrass, it is con-
siderably stiffer and does not grow as tall as bluegrass. Zoysia generally reaches
a maximum height of eight inches when undipped. Its creeping stems form a thick
sod in summer that makes it compete well with weeds. Zoysia also resists wear and
stays green during drouth periods when Kentucky bluegrass burns out.
A disadvantage of Meyer Zoysia is that it takes one or two years to become
established. And it will not grow very fast in northern Illinois. Also, because it
is dormant in winter, it does not make an attractive lawn during winter and early
spring. Bluegrass stays green longer in the fall and turns green again in early
spring.
Zoysia should not be considered a substitute for Kentucky bluegrass but,
rather, as a supplement where bluegrass doesnft grow well. Zoysia is a backyard
grass, being especially adaptable for areas that receive heavy wear, such as play
and service areas.
No seed is available for Meyer Zoysia because, like other hybrids, it does
not breed true. It must be bought in round plugs or strips of sod. When buying
-more-
■ s
■
. J.' .'
.-..
• h
.
, i
"
•
:
: ; • :l
• .-
-2-
these plugs or strips, be sure they are moist and well supplied with creeping
stems .
Zoysia plugs can he set out any time from March 1 to September 15 in Illi-
nois. Since Zoysia spreads fastest when not competing with other grasses, it is
advisable to prepare the area to be plugged in the same way as a seedbed is prepared.
"Sprigging" is less expensive than planting plugs and should be done in
the spring. Be sure the sprigs are fresh and moist.
Since Meyer Zoysia does not form a thick sod until a year or more after
planting, weed control during the first year is a problem. Pulling weeds by hand
gives good control, but is hard work. Fortunately, several effective weed killers
are available.
For more information about Zoysia, write to the University of Illinois
College of Agriculture for a copy of Circular 778, "Zoysia Grass for Illinois
Lawns." Or get a copy from any Illinois county farm adviser.
-30-
PAC: cm
5/19/58
-
,.
\o*
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Judge Junior Chicken Entries on Friday
URBANA — Final judging of the 109 entries in the 1958 Illinois
Junior Chicken-of-Tomorrow contest is scheduled for Friday, May 23, at
the Armour Creameries, Lincoln.
Each entry consists of 10 selected cockerels delivered to the
creamery before 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, May 21. The best eight
cockerels of each entry will be considered in the final judging.
Judges will be Vern Almquist, Armour Creameries, Chicago,
and Sam Ridlen, extension poultry specialist at the University of Illi-
nois College of Agriculture, Urbana. Placings and winning entries will
be on display after 2:00 p.m. on May 23 and all day on May 24.
A free chicken barbecue will be provided for contestants on
Saturday, May 24, from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m. DST at the 4-H Show
Pavilion, Logan county fairgrounds, Lincoln.
Following lunch, Clarence Ems, head of the poultry division
of the State Department of Agriculture and chairman of the Chicken-of-
Tomorrow committee, will welcome visitors, give a brief run-down on
the contest and introduce guests. Ridlen will point up highlights of
the contest. Trophies, certificates and other awards will be presented
to the winning entrants by Carl Key, Delavan, president, of the Illinois
Poultry Improvement Association.
RAJ: cm
5/19/58
-30-
'
■
?
.
•
• .
■
.
•
. . .
l :-f j [ , : ■ .
• -
:
• . " . .-...-! •
• 3 . ■ . ;
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Safety Field Day at Knoxville June 13
URBANA — The Illinois Rural safety Council in cooperation with
the Home Economics and Agriculture Extension Councils of Knox county
is sponsoring an all-day safety Field Day June 13 at the high school
in Knoxville, starting at 9:00 a.m. CST.
Main objective of the field day is to give those who have or
may have responsibility for local safety programs a chance to become
familiar with demonstrations available for use in local areas.
Members of the councils hope that the field day will make it
possible for local leaders to secure and select safety programs that
meet their needs, according to 0. L. Hogsett, extension safety spe-
: cialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Featured on the program will be an auto-machinery collision
: demonstrated by Ed Langen of the Country Mutual Casualty Company,
Chicago. A full-sized tractor will be tipped over both sideways and
backwards.
John Castle, Illinois Power Company, Springfield, will put on
a "hot line" demonstration, and members of the State Police will demon-
strate use of radar for traffic control.
Main speaker of the day will be Maynard Coe, director of the
Farm Division of the National Safety Council, Chicago.
The Knoxville Fire District will demonstrate fire control.
Various youth groups will present other demonstrations and exhibits.
These one-day events are open to the public. Everyone who is
interested in farm and home safety is urged to attend.
-30-
OLHrcm
5/19/58
/
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University of Illinois Agronomy Farm Handles . . .
BIG PROJECTS ON SMALL PLOTS
by Harold Guither, Assistant Extension Editor
URBANA — No Illinois farmer with a 200-acre farm would want it divided into
99 different fields, especially at this time of year when he's in a hurry to plant
and cultivate his corn.
But on the 200-acre agronomy research farm at the University of Illinois,
farmers are happy to see the intensive research program that divides this farm into
99 fields ranging in size from .1+ to 3.^ acres. For on these 99 fields 32 different
soil and crop scientists and their graduate students are carrying on research that
touches on just about every phase of interest to Illinois farmers.
Corn, the state's number one crop, gets its deserving share of research
attention. Breeders are working on new hybrids that contain more oil and protein.
The new hybrids also stand better and are more resistant to weather, diseases and
insects than the older types.
Special corn hybrids are being developed for special uses by processors
in the milling, plastics and food industries. Dwarf hybrids that stand much better
than regular corn and yield almost as much look promising.
Other researchers are studying the effects of light on corn and wheat
growth by shading parts of certain plots. They have found a similar response be-
tween shaded plants and different planting rates that leads them to believe that
light plays a major role in corn growth and yields.
Soybeans also rate major attention in the research program. The U. S.
Regional Soybean Laboratory located at the University maintains a collection of
2,000 strains introduced from foreign countries, the largest such collection in the
world. They are used as a source for breeding new varieties.
-more-
/
-2-
Lincoln and Clark, two improved varieties, were developed through breeding
research on the agronomy farm. It has been estimated that these two varieties have
boosted Illinois farmers' incomes by $13.5 million a year.
Agronomists are also conducting studies on the best way to grow new soy-
bean varieties to get top yields and avoid harvest losses. Another project involves
gibberellin, the new plant hormone that has produced phenomenal growth stimulation
in other crops. It is hoped that this hormone may stimulate growth at the bottom
of the plant so that fewer of the lower pods will be lost at harvest.
Oat research is designed to produce new disease-resistant varieties. Re-
search workers in another project are trying to discover what grass or legume crops
combined with oats will produce the most and best quality silage.
Wheat research is aiming to produce a shorter, stiffer strawed variety
that will be resistant to diseases and Hessian fly. Wheat from Japan has been used
in some of the crosses.
Forage crop research workers are trying to find the best methods of estab-
lishing seedings of grasses and legumes. They are testing red clover, alfalfa,
orchardgrass and sudan grass varieties to see which will grow best in Illinois.
Special nurseries for birdsfoot trefoil, red clover and orchard grass have been
established here to test all introductions of these crops into the north-central
states from all over the world. From these many seedlings, researchers will select
the strongest and most promising for developing new improved varieties.
Other plots are devoted to studies of new weed control chemicals. Powerful
and often dangerous chemicals can be tested thoroughly so that farmers will know
which they can safely and profitably use. Illinois has been designated as the major
research center for giant foxtail control.
-more-
•
••■
-3-
Soil treatments and cropping methods also are being thoroughly investigated,
Effects of rotations and sequences of different crops and plant food applications
give many valuable lessons in soil management.
These are but a few of the many research activities at the University of
Illinois agronomy farm. Each year more than 5,000 visitors come to see the research
work that is going on. The major field day for 1958 is scheduled for September 11.
Manager of the agronomy farm is C. H. "Dusty" Farnham. He is chairman of
the South Farm and Northern Illinois Experiment Field Committee which allocates
the land and establishes cropping practices. He also handles the many details of
maintaining machinery and equipment used on the farm and supervising the upkeep of
roadways around the plots that take up more than 50 acres of the farm area.
The Agronomy South Farm cannot produce all the answers to the unsolved
problems of crops and soils in Illinois. Laboratories on the campus, the world-
famous Morrow Plots, America's oldest soil experiment field, the agronomy green-
houses, 25 outlying soil experiment fields around the state and more than 300
privately owned farms used for demonstrations are also helping in the search for
more knowledge about the intricate workings of Illinois crops and soils.
M. B. Russell, head of the Agronomy Department, likes to express the
purpose of this vast research program by quoting the words of former University of
Illinois President Andrew Draper, who said in 190*f, "The wealth of Illinois is in
her soil, and her strength lies in its intelligent development."
-30-
HDG:cm
5/19/58
.
■
.
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Select Ed Bay as 1958 Honored Alumnus
URBANA — Edwin Bay, Sangamon county farm adviser since 1926,
will be named Honored Alumnus of the Year by the Hoof and Horn Club
at the University of Illinois on Thursday, May 22.
Presentation of the award to Bay will be one of the features
of the 5th annual spring barbecue of the University's Hoof and Horn
chapter of National Block and Bridle Club, Charcoal-broiled steak will
be served starting at 6:00 p.m. DST in the Livestock Pavilion on the
south campus in Urbana.
W. J. "Jack" Hampton, former foreman at the sheep Farm at
the UI College of Agriculture, who retired on November 1, 1957, after
44 years of service to the University will be presented an honorary
Block and Bridle membership as another part of the program.
Outstanding senior members of Hoof and Horn and meats and
livestock judging team members will also be recognized for their year'c
work.
Ed Bay will join four other UI College of Agriculture alumni
similarly honored for their outstanding service and achievement in the
field of animal science. A large picture of him will be hung over the
north entrance to the stock Pavilion.
Born and raised on a Mercer county farm, Bay was graduated
from Aledo high school in. 1916. He has been interested in good live-
stock since he was a boy.
-more-
Add Ed Bay - 2
He enrolled in junior club work in 1916 and won a blue ribbon
in the Purebred Shorthorn division at the International Livestock Ex-
position that year. He was the top livestock judge at Galesburg in
1916 and won a scholarship to the University of Illinois at the Illi-
nois State Fair that same year. He enrolled at the University in 1917
and joined the Army SATC program in 1918.
Following World War I in 1919, he helped to reactivate the
Hoof and Horn Club on the campus and was elected its president. In
1920 he helped to organize the Little International on the campus (held
annually since) and championed a movement to have the University rep-
resented by a student livestock judging team at the International Ex-
position. He was the high scorer in the 1920 University livestock
judging contest.
He was graduated from the University of Illinois in June 1921
with a bachelor of science degree in agriculture. In 1923 he returned
to do graduate study. He was a member of Ag Club and is a member of
Farmhouse fraternity and Alpha Zeta, Gamma Sigma Delta and Epsilon
Sigma Phi honoraries.
Bay served as agriculture and science teacher at Aledo high
school and organized their department of vocational agriculture. He
went to Sangamon county as farm adviser on August 1, 1926.
He is a recognized leader and has served as president of both
the Illinois Association of Farm Advisers and the National Association
of County Agricultural Agents. Following World War II he served on
the state Agricultural Committee of Post-war Planning. He has been
active in local church and civic organizations in Springfield.
-more-
Add Ed Bay - 3
Deeply respected by Sangamon county stockmen, he has been a
strong advocate of such progressive programs as swine certification
and beef performance testing. He received the distinguished service
award of the national county agents association in 1947.
In 1921 he married Frances McCutchen of Alexis. The Bays'
two children include a married daughter , Martha (Mrs. Kenneth Lundeen) ,
who lives with her husband and daughter in Chicago. Their son, Donald,
graduated from the University of Illinois in 1957 and was employed as
a state crop and livestock statistician in Springfield. Presently he
is stationed in the army at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri.
1957-58 officers of the Hoof and Horn Club are Philip Phar,
Mt. Carmel, president; Don Pinney, Roseville, vice-president; Dale
Ruckman, Xenia, secretary; Kent Wesson, Leland, treasurer; Gary Peter-
son, Oneida, and J. Robert Wilson, Fithian, Ag Council representatives.
Barbecue co-chairmen are John Key, Champaign, and Myron Dempsey, Gales-
burg. Carl Becker, st. Elmo, will serve as master of ceremonies.
List of award winners follows:
Judging winners, Animal Science 101 — second semester, 1956-
57, Martin Werries, Chapin, beef cattle and over-all; Donald Mapes,
Oakland, sheep; and Thomas Knox, White Hall, swine; first semester,
1957-58, Thomas Young, Champaign, beef cattle; Scott McWhinney, Orion,
sheep; Richard Petrowich, Ramsey, swine; and Jon Proehl, Manito, over-
all.
Judging winners, Animal Science 103, 1957-58: Dale Helms,
Belleville, beef cattle; Don Pinney, sheep; Robert Cassens, Dixon,
swine; and Richard Hughes, Gilson, over- all.
-more-
■i
Add Ed Bay - 4
Showmanship contest, beef cattle, Gary Cooper, Windsor,
champion, and Scott McWhinney, reserve champion; horses, Lee Stampe,
Shipman, champion, and Kenneth Wrenke, Des Plaines, reserve champion;
sheep, John Heider, McNabb, champion, and Hubert Walls, Paris, reserve
champion; swine, John Burrus, Williamsville, champion, and Donald
Hoffman, Peotone, reserve champion; over-all, John Heider, champion, and
Gary Cooper, reserve champion.
Livestock judging team, Carl Becker; Myron Dempsey; Charles
Fink, Beason; Arlyn Rabideau, Bonfield; George Tjardes, Gibson City;
Allen Wagner, Marissa; and Wilbur Nelson, Cambridge.
Meats judging team, Robert Cassens; Donald Garrigan, Lafayette ;
Charles Hubele, Carmi; Richard Hughes; Kenneth Hunt, Morris; and
Philip Phar.
4-H livestock judging team — Jon Proehl; Robert Hatch, urbana;
Kenneth Ringhouse, Easton; and John Webb, Clinton.
-30-
RAJ:Cm
5/20/58
-
•
■
Aa\V£
Farm News
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Mow in Straight Line With Electric Mower
URBANA — For best results with an electric mower, mow back
and forth in straight lines across your lawn.
Always work away from the electrical outlet so that the power
cord lies on the cut-over area, suggests o. L. Hogsett, extension
safety specialist at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture,
In that way you won't be in danger of cutting the cord and
losing power or getting an electric shock from the frayed wires.
To help keep the cord from kinking and tangling, coil it
loosely in a bucket or basket. That makes a handy storage space, and
the cord will come out easily for use when you mow.
It is also a good idea to mow with an electric mower only
when the grass is dry. Moisture of any kind is a good conductor of
electricity. Rain or dew on the grass may short out the mower and
damage the motor or give you a shock.
Use only heavy-duty rubber-covered cord with a No. 16 or
heavier conductor wire for 100 feet of cord on a 1/4 hp motor. Check
your cord frequently to see that it doesn't have any breaks in the
insulation.
-30-
0LH:cm
-5/20/sa
.•-."■ • :.•' ; •-■'
' ' ''
. . ., . '
' ... . '•-.'•:•. ■■':'■■ • ••
- ••• .-.'■•' ..' • ' - .-.■..
•■■•••.. •
• j*. .. . ■'• • : ■ ■ r .'_'•■'
. . ;.!•'• v • :i- •■'"' ': ■ '
■; ..... \ 5 : • ' .': '• :: '•"" ' "• "' ! ' '
,, , ■■■■;. •. ■ ■.-"■ - : : '.-.■- . •"'" • • ' . - ' '. '.. ri
;■; • . . tO Hi i ' » I '
.' ■."'' • - . ' '" •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dolly's Blood Donations Total 264 Gallons
URBANA — One of the biggest blood donors in Illinois is named
Dolly.
She has already donated 264 gallons of blood/ and they say
she may double this amount* ker life is dedicated to this lone job.
Dolly is an old gray mare living at the University of Illinois veteri-
nary research farm.
Ray Hamilton, laboratory technician, has taken blood from
Dolly since 1947 at the rate of 8 liters a month. The 24-year-old mare
has given over 8 barrels of blood for scientific research.
Dolly provides blood for the University's Bacteriology and
Chemistry laboratories, State Health Laboratory, Chanute Air Force
Base, local hospitals, Cook county hospital and the University of Illi-
nois Medical College and College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. P. D. Beamer, a staff veterinarian at the University,
supervises the farm operation and allocates space for research projects.
The farm is used principally for research, but also for student in-
struction.
Dolly isn't alone on the veterinary research farm. There
are four other horses, eight cattle, 72 sheep, 40 swine, 24 dogs and
about 1,000 head of poultry.
Several research projects are in progress at one time on the
80-acre farm. Projects may last from a few weeks to 10 years, but more
commonly they run from six months to three years, says Dr. Beamer.
-more-
.
i
■ ' . ■ •
J
:
. ■
■
1 :
.
:
■
-
■
-
- '
■
•
- ■
.i
■
Add Research Farm - 2
Various projects in progress at the farm today include
leptospirosis control in cattle, sheep and swine; respiratory diseases
of poultry; properties of the virus of duck hepatitis; diseases of
domestic and wild animals; chemical prevention of parasitism in live-
stock; transmissible gastroenteritis of pigs; death losses in young
pigs; ketosis of cattle? parasites of domestic animals; enteric
bacteria of animals and birds; virus enteritis of milk; pharmacologic
study of chemical agents; effect of irradiation on the wholesomeness
of food; shipping fever of cattle; and the diagnosis and treatment of
trichomoniasis in bulls.
Dr. H. S. Bryan, experimenting at the research farm, was the
first to test leptospira vaccine in swine under controlled conditions.
Recently Dr. E. F. Reber reported, after six months of a two-
year research project, that flour and beef preserved by irradiation are
wholesome. This means that grain could be stored without danger from
insect infestation and that irradiation could be used as an alternative
for cooking and canning as a means of preserving food.
Funds for projects come from state appropriations, private
and federal grants and income from the research farm.
-30-
JER:cm
5/20/58
E
. £
•
■
•' ■
[
;■■■ ■
■ t .
"
I
•
.
•
. •■
■
-
i-l
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois 4-H'ers to Attend National Conference
URBANA — Four Illinois 4-H Club members will be in Washington,
D.C., from June 14 to 20 attending sessions of the 28th National 4-H
Club Conference.
This year's delegates to represent the more than 60,000 Illi-
nois 4-H Clubbers are Sharon Hoffman, 20, Trivoli, Peoria county;
Roldean Cox, 19, Hudson, McLean county; Ronald Harkness, 19, Shirland,
Winnebago county; and Raymond Huftalin, Malta, DeKalb county.
Adult state leaders to accompany the group are Arlene Wolfram
and G. W. stone, both of the Cooperative Extension Service at the Uni-
versity of Illinois, who represent home economics and agricultural 4-H
Club work respectively.
Selection to attend National 4-H Conference in the nation's
capital is the highest honor a 4-H Club member can achieve. These four
Illinois rural young people are so honored because they have shown
highest qualities of leadership, have achieved outstanding results in
their 4-H Club work and have taken an active part in project and com-
munity activities.
During their week in Washington, D.C., delegates and leaders
will follow a full schedule of discussion meetings, historic tours and
educational visits with government officials. At the conference, the
country's outstanding 4-H'ers, representing all the states and terri-
tories, will learn how the federal government works and get a background
of the nation's history in the actual spots where many of the events
took place.
-30-
RAJ:cm
S'?0/58
. . '
■' '
:.• . ' r;."
:
. -•
■
-
. -■
'
.
■ ■
.
- •
.
-
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Efficiency Becoming More Crucial in Hog Production
URBANA — A University of Illinois livestock extension spe-
cialist believes that growth of contract farming will make efficient
operation increasingly important for the hog producers.
It would take only 60 , 000 producers with 100 sows each,
farrowing twice a year and saving an average of eight pigs a litter, to
produce as many hogs as the 4 1/2 million producers are raising for
slaughter today, says Harry G. Russell.
Integration means that every farmer who wants to stay in the
hog business must take a long, hard look at his business from the
standpoint of efficiency, Russell says. Each farmer must ask himself
whether he is producing pork as cheaply as he can and whether his hogs
will supply the raw material for high-quality pork products.
Numbers of hogs being produced on farms in the corn belt and
around the fringes are rapidly expanding, according to the specialist.
Feed surpluses and recent profits in hogs have had something to do
with this increase, other influences have been concern about integra-
tion, efforts to modernize and become more efficient, activities of
feed, packing and equipment companies in advancing contract farming and
a trend toward specialized hog farming.
Right now the picture is not entirely clear as to the exact
direction or final destination of contract hog farming, Russell sug-
gests. But rapid strides in increasing numbers of hogs and higher
efficiency of production will bring an eventual unplanned showdown on
who will raise the hogs in this country and what it will take in
capital, equipment and know-how to compete successfully for the hog
market.
-30-
RAJ:cm
5/20/58
■
■
■
. ■
I
■ -
-
■
■
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Two More IFYE Exchangees Arrive in Illinois
URBANA — Miss June Morris from England and Gordon Downey from
New Zealand arrived in Illinois this week to live with Illinois farm
families for about two months.
Both Miss Morris and Downey are exchangees under the Inter-
national Farm Youth Exchange Program. Five Illinois rural young people
will visit other countries this year in the exchange part of the pro-
gram.
First farm on which Miss Morris will live is that of Mr. and
Mrs. Carl Cooper of Windsor, Moultrie county. Downey will live with
Mr. and Mrs. Denson Sprouse, Raymond, Montgomery county, for his first
visit. He has been in Mississippi living on farms for three months,
while Miss Morris only arrived in the United states on May 10. Follow-
ing her stay in Illinois, she will live with farm families in Montana
before returning home in early October.
Miss Morris, 23, lives on a 189-acre dairy farm in Buckingham-
shire, England, she is a member of the Young Farmers' club, choir,
debating society and International Club at school. Downey, 24, also
lives on a dairy farm, which is kept entirely in grass, near Dargaville
in the north part of New Zealand. He also is a Young Farmers' club
member at home.
This is the 10th year of the International Farm Youth Ex-
change, a people-to-people program conducted jointly by the National
4~H Foundation and the Cooperative Extension Service to promote better
understanding and friendship. Since the program began, Illinois has
sent 33 delegates abroad and in return has received 93 exchangees from
other countries. Nearly 300 Illinois farm families have served as
hosts to the exchangees.
-30-
RAjrcm
5/20/58
. i:
■
i
■
•
.
'
r-
-
'
,
rj
•
•
. .
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
University sets Up New Four-Year Forestry Curricula
URBANA — Interested students will now be able to take a full
four- year course in forestry at the University of Illinois.
Two new four-year curricula leading to the degree of Bachelor
of Science in Forestry go into effect on June 1, according to Dr. J. N.
Spaeth, head of the University's Department of Forestry.
A two-year pre forestry curriculum has been offered at the
University of Illinois in Urbana for the past 20 years, Spaeth points
out. However, students in that curriculum who wanted to get a degree
in forestry had to transfer to some other school for their last two
years. That will not now be necessary.
The new curriculum in forest production prepares students
for all phases of the management of forest properties, private or
public, large or small. It prepares them for the production of valuable
wood products or for watershed protection, wildlife habitat, recrea-
tional enjoyment or other benefits.
The new curriculum in wood technology and utilization pre-
pares students to work with wood as a raw material and to enter into
positions that deal with the conditioning, manufacturing, use and sale
of wood products.
First work offered in the new curricula will be the eight-
week summer forestry camp beginning on July 14, 1958. The first week
will be spent at the Dixon Springs Experiment Station at Robbs in Pope
county, Illinois. Field, classroom and laboratory work there will be
-more-
.
•
- •
• :
.
:
.
• ■
.
;
.
■ • ■ •
.
•
•
.
-
.
■ .
■
.
.
. v \
■
■ .
'..-:■• : - ■ ■ .
. - . ...
' • .
Add Forestry - 2
concerned with the fundamentals of watershed protection, forest soils
and woodland and plantation management.
The remaining seven weeks will be spent at Camp Rabideau in
northern Minnesota. Field and classroom work there will stress both
the theory and practice of silvics and silviculture, forest measure-
ments and timber cruising and the harvesting and manufacture of forest
products* This camp is located in the Chippewa National Forest, where
all of the many activities of a national forest in timber management
protection, sales and recreational use and wildlife management are
under way. Also near by are many government forest research and demon-
stration areas.
Junior courses in the curricula will be offered starting in
the fall semester, September 1958. Senior courses will be offered in
1959-60 for the first time. The first degrees will be awarded in June
1960. Students from other institutions who have the essential equiva-
lent of the preforestry curriculum offered at the University of Illinois
will be accepted for the summer camp this year. Applications should
be made by June 15.
Graduates of both curricula may be employed by industry, by
federal, state or local government, or by colleges or universities, or
may operate their own business or consulting service.
Although registration is in the College of Agriculture, many
of the courses of instruction are in the Colleges of Liberal Arts and
Sciences and Engineering. The forestry curricula use the laboratory,
drafting, demonstration and classroom facilities of several departments
in each of these colleges as well as those of the College of Agriculture.
-more-
I
.
■
'
•
'
.
.'
- .
3
Add Forestry - 3
In addition to Spaeth, the teaching staff includes 8 of the
16 faculty members who make up the teaching, research and extension
staff of the department.
Equipment of the Department of Forestry includes maps, charts,
colored slides and a working library of more than 10,000 books and
pamphlets on forestry. It also includes forestry tools and instruments
and wood-working and test machines.
A new Plant Sciences Laboratory building is now under way
with 156,000 square feet of floor space for the Departments of Agronomy,
Forestry, Horticulture and Plant Pathology of the College of Agricul-
ture. This building will contain such facilities for advanced instruc-
tion as an electron microscope, radioisotope chemical laboratory,
spectographic laboratory, controlled environment growth chambers, sta-
tistical laboratory, photo studio and darkroom, micro-technique labora-
tory and machine shop.
Other facilities are 40 acres of forest and Christmas tree
plantations on the Urbana campus, several natural woodlands near the
campus and at other locations throughout the state and the summer camp
in northern Minnesota.
The 17 large buildings at Camp Rabideau are on high ground
between two small lakes and are 1/2 mile from Lake Rabideau, which is
2 1/2 miles long. Facilities will take care of feeding and housing
150 students and 15 faculty members. Also available are drafting rooms,
a classroom, library, recreation room, small infirmary and several
service buildings.
-more-
•
•
•
■
b ■
.
•'
•
•
Add Forestry - 4
Forestry students and faculty share these accommodations
with the faculty and students in civil engineering, who attend a
surveying camp there between their sophomore and junior years. Nearby
lakes offer excellent swimming, canoeing and fishing. The surrounding
forest area interests hikers, and there are several playing fields for
outdoor games •
For full information, write to the College of Agriculture,
University of Illinois, Urbana.
-30-
RAJtcm
5/20/58
• ;
■
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
AGRICULTURAL EVENTS CALENDAR FOR ILLINOIS
June 1 Illinois Rural Chorus Workshop, Allerton House, Monticello.
June 3-5 Farm Advisers Annual Spring Conference, University of Illinois,
Urbana.
June 9-13 Grain Dealers' Bookkeeping School, Illini Union, University of Illi-
nois, Urbana. Registration at 9 a.m. June 9.
June 9 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, West Salem, Edwards County,
1:30 p.m.
June 10 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Newton, Jasper County, 1:3Q p.m
June 10-12 State F.F.A. Convention, State Fairgrounds, Springfield.
June 11 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Toledo, Cumberland County,
1:30 p.m.
June 12 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Carlinville, Macoupin County,
1:30 p.m.
June 13 Northern Illinois Farm Safety Field Day, Knoxville High School,
Knoxville, 9 a.m. CST.
Land Economics Institute, University of Illinois, Urbana.
Illinois Vocational Agriculture Teachers Summer Conference. Registra-
tion at 1 p.m., Illini Union Ballroom, University of Illinois,
Urbana.
Western Illinois District 1+-H Judging School, Quincy.
Annual Field Day, Illinois Seed Dealers and Illinois Crop Improvement
Association, Agronomy South Farm, University of Illinois, Urbana.
June 2k, State F.F.A. Judging Contests. Registration at Stock Pavilion, Uni-
versity of Illinois, Urbana.
June 25 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Aledo, Mercer County, 1:30 p.m.
June 27 Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Minonk, Woodford County,
1:30 p.m.
July 1 State U-H Judging Contests. Registration at Stock Pavilion, Univer-
sity of Illinois, Urbana. 9:30 a.m. COT.
July 2 Forrest Swine Testing Station Field Day, Forrest.
July 7 Ford County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Melvin
June
17-
August 9
June
17-19
June
18
June
18
i
■
■ ■' ■ ■ .
.
• i
■
; •
■•'
.
Ag Events Calendar - 2
July 8
July 8
July 9
July 10
July 10
July 12
July U
July 19
July 21-26
July 21-29
July 30-
August 2
July 25
July 28-
August 1
July 28
July 29-30
PACtcm
5/23/58
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Dixon, Lee County, 1:30 p.m.
McLean County Swine Testing Station Field Day.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Mt. Morris, Ogle County.
Dixon Springs Purebred Ram Sale. Dixon Springs Experiment Station,
Robbs .
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, DeKalb, DeKalb County.
Western Illinois Swine Testing Station Field Day, Macomb.
Logan County Swine Testing Station Field Day, San Jose.
Illinois Purebred Sheep Breeders Association Ram Sale, University
of Illinois, Urbana.
State ^-H Leadership Conference, U-H Memorial Camp, Monticello.
Special International Farm Youth Exchangees Workshop, University
of Illinois, Urbana.
General International Farm Youth Exchange Midpoint Meeting,
University of Illinois, Urbana.
Clark County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Martinsville.
State It-H Wildlife Conservation Camp. Memorial Camp, Monticello.
All-Industry Poultry Day, University of Illinois, Urbana.
Flock Selectors' School, University of Illinois, Urbana.
.
•••
■
'
■
.
.
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This special grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the Univer-
sity of Illinois grain marketing staff for the week ending May 23, 1958).
Strong Demand, Light Receipts Aid Corn; Lover Meal Supply Boosts Soybeans
URBANA — Corn prices continued to be supported this past week by light
market receipts, decreasing terminal market stocks and a strong demand from the
East and South, according to L. F. Stice of the University of Illinois grain market-
ing staff.
Two other factors have also entered the market picture, Stice reports.
Trade rumors indicate that CCC will not sell as much off-grade corn at Illinois
and Iowa bin sites as expected. Also, a recent government report shows that farm-
ers put more of their 1957 corn under price support than the grain trade expected.
Both of these factors tend to reduce the amount of free corn available for use this
summer.
At present it is hard to determine whether Illinois corn prices have
passed their peak or will go higher. Downstate corn market strength has resulted
from truck sales for southeastern delivery. Corn sold to truckers has brought ele-
vators 3 "to 5 cents and sometimes more than rail bids. This southern feed trade
normally lets up at this season. Recently there have been signs of such letup.
Farmers can now redeem their low support corn under loan and make about
10 cents a bushel by selling on the market. Some free corn has been released in this
way, but the exact amount will not be known until early June.
Soybean prices have been influenced by soybean meal market developments.
Soybean crushing during April, according to Census Bureau reports, hit a record
high of 31*5 billion bushels. Meal stocks on May 1 were less than half as large
as a year ago. But soybean oil stocks and processors' bean stocks were much larger
than last year.
-more-
•.■'■•■
■
■■••..■'. • •
■ ' ■' ' ' ■ •- - ■
' ' -• ' ' ' ■ "■■■.- ■:■;-
"■- 1 » ' ' ' <
. ■ . 8 •
• ' ' ' ■■
• .' • •-
-2-
At the present crushing rate, processors will need to get beans taken over
under the loan program. So CCC sales policy will he a dominant market factor.
The current price hid to farmers is within one cent of the equivalent
price for soybeans owned by the CCC.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/23/58
■
\avx*\
JNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
Radio News
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Look For Performance Record When Buying a Bull
URBANA — Good performance in beef animals is fortunately a
highly inherited characteristic.
G. R. Carlisle, extension livestock specialist at the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Agriculture, reports on studies showing
that weaning weight, rate of gain and its related economy of feed use,
and type are all inherited qualities.
For this reason it is possible to select herd bulls that will
transmit good performance to their offspring, says Carlisle. Buying
bulls on the basis of good records of performance will greatly im-
prove your chances of getting animals that will perform well.
Two bulls from the same herd can show big differences in
performance, Carlisle points out. Records on two bull calves sired by
the same bull and handled in the same way clearly show the difference*
Their owner is enrolled in the Illinois beef performance testing proj-
ect.
Weaning weights and weaning type scores were 490 pounds and
top choice on one bull and 530 pounds and low fancy on the other. The
first bull, however, gained 3.56 pounds a day after weaning compared
with 2.39 pounds a day for the other.
Their yearling type scores were the same as before. But the
first bull had gained 130 more pounds than the other in the first 110
days after weaning. The more rapid gainers in beef cattle almost al-
ways make more efficient, use of their feed, according to the livestock
specialist.
RAJ: cam -30-
5/26/58
'
'
'
.
;
.'
■ .• ••
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Sheep Breeders to Meet on June 1
URBANA — Members of the Illinois Purebred Sheep Breeders asso-
ciation and their families will hold their annual picnic and field day
on Sunday, June 1, at Camp Shaw-waw-nas-see, 4-H camp near Kankakee,
This is a change from the original date, announced as June 8,
according to Nolan Nelson, Morris, chairman of arrangements.
Ralph McColl, manager of research for cattle and sheep feeds,
Quaker Oats Company, Chicago, will be the main speaker at the afternoon
session,
Maynard Boudreau, Clifton vocational agriculture teacher, is
in charge of the sheep judging contest from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. W. J.
"Jack" Hampton, retired University of Illinois sheep farm foreman, will
serve as judge.
Jess Allen, Lake Zurich vocational agriculture teacher, will
be in charge of the showmanship contest starting at 3:00 p.m. Boys
and girls entered in this contest must be either a 4-H Club or an FFA
member.
The Lake County Shepherds club will demonstrate spinning wool
into yarn and making it into a garment, other demonstrations will in-
clude worming, foot trimming and blocking. Sheep dogs will work as the
final event on the afternoon's program.
Registration will start at 10:00 a.m. DST, Pens of the dif-
ferent breeds of sheep will be on display. Guests will take part in a
potluck basket lunch from 12:00 noon until 1:30 p.m. Roast lamb sand-
wiches and cold drinks will be furnished by the association.
All persons interested in sheep are invited to attend, whether
or not they are members of the association.
-30-
RAJ:mg
5/26/58
•
.
•
. .
!
- ,
'
■'
I
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Greenview Boy Wins State Junior Chicken Contest
URBANA — Donald Deverman, 15, Greenview, was named winner of
the 1958 Illinois Junior Chicken-of-Tomorrow contest on Saturday, May 24,
at the Armour Creameries in Lincoln,
His entry of 10 birds averaged 3,7 pounds after only eight
weeks of feeding. Judges for the contest were S. F. Ridlen, extension
poultry specialist, University of Illinois College of Agriculture, and
Verne Almquist, Armour Creameries, Chicago,
Of the original 108 entries in the contest, 99 completed the
eight-week feeding test and showed their birds, according to Ridlen,
High quality of the birds is shown in that 87 percent of them were
given an A grade by the judges.
Other state winners in addition to Deverman included Michael
Kilhoffer, 16, Buffalo; Billy DeHart, 15, Greenview; and William Neff,
15, Chandlerville, All of these boys were central section winners.
North sectional winners were Raymond Kluck, Lena; Robert Senior
Momence; Donald Kluck, Lena; Glenn Johnson, Maple Park; and Dean Marlowe,
Huntley. The one south section winner was Jon Winston, Salem,
An additional 25 state winners were named but not ranked in
the contest. They include Thomas and Glenn Johnson, Maple Park; Francis
Henry, Kent; Lyle Marlowe, Huntley; Joseph Bores, Downers Grove; Jerry
Reusch, Scales Mound; Rodney Ohl, Paris; Gary Lee and Terry Dean Schifer-
decker, Rushville; Rick Schultz, Joyce Launer and Don Nordsiek, Beards-
town; Merton Holland, Lena; Philip Francis, Wilmington; Thomas Findlay,
Plainfield; Georgia Bergman, Palatine; Robert Becker, Emington; Dennis
Setzer and David DeHart, Greenview; and Judith Marie schafer and Robert
and Catherine Hendricks on, Springfield.
-30-
RAjtmg
5/26/58
. .
•
.
.
. .
-
'
\0*
Farm News
INIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Low Moisture, High Temperature Cause Oat Damage
URBANA--A University of Illinois plant pathologist today ex-
plained the leaf damage showing up in oat fields in north-central Illi-
nois.
R. M. Endo reports that the damage appears to be caused by a
combination of weather conditions this spring. Early in the spring the
weather was cool and moisture was plentiful. This weather was ideal for
oats, and the seed germinated and developed good top growth. But with
adequate moisture the plants developed a shallow root system.
Then the weather turned warm and dry. These conditions caused
leaf scalding.
Endo reports that U.S.D.A0 plant pathologist Arthur Hooker at
Madison, Wisconsin, produced conditions artificially that caused oats
to look very much like the damaged Illinois fields this year.
Adequate rain would help the oats recover but there would be
some cut in yield, depending on the number of leaves damaged, Endo says.
If dry weather continues, there could be considerably more damage.
Newton and Burnett seem to be especially susceptible to this
damage. Clint land, Clinton, Nemaha, Minhafer and Fayette varieties seem
less seriously damaged.
Endo doubts whether the damage is caused by a manganese defi-
ciency in the soil, as some have suggested. However, laboratory tests
, are being made to find out definitely.
-30-
I HDGrmg
J 5/26/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
India Secretary of Agriculture Visits UI
URBANA — K. A, p. Stevenson, agriculture and forestry secre-
tary to the government of Uttar Pradesh, India, has been visiting the
University of Illinois to study the American land-grant university
system.
The Uttar Pradesh government, with assistance from the Indian
government, is establishing a university similar to an American land-
grant university. It will be the first of its kind in southeastern
Asia. Stevenson, explains that 70 percent of the Indian people depend
on agriculture for their livelihood. Although there are several agri-
cultural colleges in India, they are not designed to serve the needs
of India's farm population.
The University of Illinois will be asked by the International
Cooperation Administration to assist Uttar Pradesh in establishing this
new university.
According to Stevenson, Indian universities are patterned
after those of the British. They differ from American universities in
that they do not have a separate corporate board of trustees, students
are given examinations prepared by a board of examiners and the curri-
cula are mostly in the arts and sciences.
In evaluating the difference between American and Indian uni-
versities, Stevenson says he has been most impressed with the fact that
American university staff members, through committees and other organ-
izations, help to make decisions pertaining to their university. He
explains that, this procedure is not followed in India. He is also
-more-
- •
.
.
F
i
■
'
•
.
•.
India Secretary - 2
impressed with the fact that American students can work their way
through college. In India, this is virtually impossible, and only
children of wealthier parents can attend college.
Although Stevenson was born and raised in India, he was gradu-
ated from Oxford University in England, where he studied philosophy,
politics and art. His present position as secretary of agriculture is
an administrative one and does not require an agricultural background,
he hastens to explain.
While in the U, S,, Stevenson has also visited New York City
and Washington, D. C, Blackburn College, Southern Illinois university,
Berea College, the University of Kentucky and the Department of Agricul-
ture and Lincoln shrines in Springfield,
-30-
PAC : mg
5/26/58
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Note to Editor: This is the first of two stories about the University
of Illinois and the Allerton Trust Farms)
University Follows Its Own Advice; Improves Soil First
URBANA — This spring the University of Illinois begins its
12th year as landlord on the more than 3,700 acres of Allerton Trust
farms. Its farm managers might well look at the records and say, "It
surely has paid to practice what we teach."
This story begins in October 1946, when Robert Allerton gave
the University his 1, 500-acre park, formal gardens and mansion and
3,775 acres of farm land. The land was divided into eight farm units
ranging in size from 235 to 712 acres. Income is used for maintaining
the park and mansion adjoining the farms.
When the University accepted this gift, management of the
farms was assigned to farm management specialists in the department of
agricultural economics. Following the principles taught in the farm
management classes, the farm managers set. out to test the soil on all
of the land and map out a soil improvement plan.
Some soil improvements had been made on the farms before they
were given to the University. But the farm managers point out that good
yields year after year come only from continuous soil improvement. When
the farms were given to the University, that year's corn crop was in-
cluded. Most of the money from the sale of this crop was spent for
lime and phosphate — about $37,700 worth.
-more-
.
■
■
■
■
■
.
.
■
.
•
.
Add University Follows - 2
Heavy plant food treatments, based on soil tests and crop
yields, have been continued every year since. J. B. Cunningham,
associate professor of agricultural economics and manager of the farms
since 1953, reports that 1,215 tons of limestone and fertilizers were
applied to the farms in 1957. If all of this material had been shipped
in at one time, it would have filled 30 box cars each holding 40 tons.
The Allerton trust farms are pioneering in the use of many
new fertilizer materials. Some of the high-analysis fertilizers are
manufactured by only a few companies now but will be more widely avail-
able in a few years. Both liquid and solid fertilizers have been used.
The soil improvement program has paid off in higher yields.
For example, comparing yields for the first five years (1947-51) under
University ownership with the last five (1953-57) shows that average
corn yields have gone from 66 to 79 bushels an acre. Soybean yields
have moved up from 29 to 32 bushels. Wheat yields have leaped from 29
to 41 bushels. Oat yields have jumped from 49 to 66 bushels.
Of course, use of top-quality seed, good farming practices by
the operators and good weather have also helped. But soil improvement
should get a major part of the credit for these yield gains, Cunningham
emphasizes.
The University has always operated the Allerton trust farms
as commercial farms to make money. They were not intended for research
or experimental work. However, specialists from various departments in
the College of Agriculture have offered ideas and suggestions when they
have been asked for them.
-more-
•
•".
,
r.
■ .
•■ . .
■
■
■
■
■
'
-
.
.
.
.
i
Add University Follows - 3
All of the money spent on the farms for improvements has come
from the farm earnings. No tax money is used. At the same time the
farms pay the equivalent of complete tax assessments to state and local
governments.
Good farm family living conditions are also a major goal in
the University operation of the Allerton farms. Good farming has made
possible improved living facilities for the operators of these farms,
Cunningham points out.
The University policy is to provide housing, including fixed
equipment, that is at least equal in comfort, convenience and appearance
to that on other similar farms in the community. If the operator wants
better or more costly housing, he may, with University approval, furnish
this additional improvement at his own expense.
In line with this policy, the University has spent more than
$70,000 to build two new houses and remodel seven others. All houses
now have modern conveniences. Added equipment includes new kitchens,
heating systems, bathrooms, pressure water systems, sewage systems and
one deep well.
Farm operators and their families have cooperated by providing
labor for preparing building sites, ditching, and removing dirt and
debris.
In addition to the home improvements, more than $40,000 has
been spent for other buildings and drainage.
Most of the home improvements have been made since 1953. It
would have been desirable to do some of this work sooner. But war
limitations caused some delay, and much-needed land improvements were
made first. As a result, the farms have made enough profit to pay for
the improvements in addition to providing the funds for maintaining the
Robert Allerton Park, one of the most beautiful woodland properties in
central Illinois, for all citizens to enjoy.
-30-
HDGtcm
5/27/58
"
• -
.
•
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Second of two stories about the University of Illinois and the Allerton
Trust Farms)
Managing University Farms Requires Tact and Judgment
URBANA — Managing the 3,775 acres of Allerton Trust Farms for
the University of Illinois takes more than a college degree in farm
management. It also takes a wealth of experience gained through years
of close contact with farming and the ability to work with people.
When Robert Allerton gave these eight farms to the University
in 1946, the management task went to J. B. Andrews, professor of agri-
cultural economics. He had worked for many years as a fieldman for the
Farm Bureau Farm Management Service, had served as University represent-
ative in working with Agricultural Adjustment Administration and the
Soil Conservation Service, and had managed other University farms for
several years before 1946, Assisting Andrews part time from 1946 to
1953 were W. N. Stevenson and A. G. Harms.
Since 1953, J. B. Cunningham, associate professor of agricul-
tural economics, has had full management responsibility for the Allerton
farms. He had worked as a private farm manager, as fieldman for the
Farm Bureau Farm Management Service and as extension specialist in farm
management.
All of these men have found that a successful farm manager
must be able to work in harmony with the farm operators.
Operators of the Allerton Trust farms are "career" farmers.
They like to farm and know how to do a good job of it. Since the
-more-
:■
■.
>
. .
■
■
.
Add Managing University Farms - 2
University accepted the gift of the eight farms in 1946, only three
farms have changed operators.
In these cases, one farmer died, one retired at the age of 72,
and the third left farming to go into the implement business. Five
operators were on these farms when Robert Allerton owned them. They
have continued to farm under University ownership and management.
But just in case any of the operators should decide not to
farm the University would have little trouble finding a replacement.
Last year, when Lou Buckman retired, the University quickly received
23 applications to operate the farm even though they had made no public
announcement that the farm was for rent.
A committee of University farm management specialists care-
fully studied the applicants. Members of the committee visited most
of their farms. They gathered reactions of their neighbors. They con-
sidered their experience, training and financial standing. The selec-
tion of 24-year-old Frank Lubbers, Jr., was a little surprising to
some people. But his record as an ambitious, capable farmer in just
a few years brought general agreement that he was qualified to take
over the farm.
Cunningham reports that seven of the farms are operated on
crop-share leases and the other on a livestock-share program. Actually
the lease is signed for only one year. But it contains a continuing
clause that assures a continuous operation so long as arrangements work
out agreeably for both parties.
-more-
.
.
•
•
'
.
.
I
Add Managing University Farms - 3
Like the best professional farm managers who are running their
own businesses, Cunningham tries to be a good diplomat and a practical
farmer, keep all of the operators posted on the necessary business
policies of the University and report what's happening on the other
Allerton farms.
In his letters to farm operators he reports on crop yields,
soil treatments, improvements and special meetings and offers words of
praise and encouragement.
His April letter reported the seeding of 504 acres of oats.
He pointed out that every acre had been fertilized with 100 pounds of
phosphorus or nitrogen-phosphorus fertilizer and seeded to legumes. So
far, 180 acres have been limed as a result of soil tests, and more
limestone is on order for later use. Drainage and brush removal proj-
ects were reported on three farms.
Home landscaping was under way on several farms. Marketing
plans for the corn stored on the farms was also outlined.
Operators were urged to attend a special public demonstration
on pre-emergence weed control by two University specialists.
A letter during the winter outlined the importance of con-
trolling rats in stored corn. Special chemicals were suggested. A
duster and dusting equipment had been purchased and left on one farm
for use by all the farm operators.
In December, Cunningham reported the 1957 average corn yield
of 89.7 bushels an acre for 948 acres. This topped the Piatt county
average yield by 18 bushels and fell only 4.3 bushels below the all-
time high yield of 94 bushels in 1956.
-more-
I
.
■
I
I
:
Add Managing university Farms - 4
Some of the letters cover the little points showing sincere
interest in the farm operators and their families. In the July letter,
Cunningham writes, "With harvesting completed and most weeds under con-
trol, I suggest that you and your family now consider a little rest be-
fore the next surge of farm work starts."
Notes of praise for successfully completed jobs appear in
many of the monthly letters.
Perhaps the simplest explanation for the smoothly working
business operation that has developed on these farms appears in another
letter when Cunningham says, "In this complex business of farming, we
do very little without the help of others."
-30-
HDGrcm
5/27/58
•
.
■
•
■ ■
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Weed Control in Lawns
by Harleigh Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA — Lawn weeds can easly be killed with weed killers.
Often called herbicides, most weed killers will work best if they are
applied when the weeds are small and growing actively. If the weather is hot and
dry and the weeds have been allowed to grow, they can resist weed killers because
they will not readily absorb the poison into the cell sap. Also, killing large
weeds exposes bare ground that will fill with new weeds after the first rain.
Herbicide mixtures can be applied that will kill most crabgrass and
broadleaf weeds, such as plantain, curled dock, dandelion and henbit. If the lawn
is treated by mid- June, apply a mixture of 2,^-D and PMA (phenyl mercuric acetate).
Both are available under trade names. Follow directions on the container. If
there are no directions, use k tablespoons of 10 percent PMA and 2 tablespoons of an
amine salt of 2,^-D in 2 gallons in water.
This mixture will treat 1,000 square feet of lawn. The first treatment
will not kill all the crabgrass. A second and third application of the PMA will
therefore be needed at weekly intervals.
If preferred, potassium cyanate (KOCN) can be used in place of the PMA.
Use k tablespoons in 2 gallons of water to treat 1,000 square feet of lawn. If
crabgrass isn't present in a lawn, use 2,^-D alone. Apply this mixture at any
time. MCPA can also be used in place of 2,4-D and at the same rate. If crabgrass
is the only problem, the PMA or KOCN can also be used separately.
Disodium methyl arsenate applied at the rate of two ounces per 1,000
square feet of lawn will kill crabgrass in July and August. Two applications at
weekly intervals are needed.
-more-
-••■.• - .
-
. • • . ■
-2-
Weedy lawn grasses, such as nimble will, quackgrass and orchard grass,
can be killed with spot treatments of dalapon or TCA. Use l/h pound of dalapon or
l/2 pound of TCA in one gallon of water. Since both of these herbicides will kill
all the grass, it is important to treat only the undesirable grasses. A sponge
attached to a wooden handle works well, or you can use a small syringe.
If only a few broadleaf weeds are present, use a localized treatment of
5 ounces of an amine salt of 2,U-D to one gallon of water to treat the plants. Slip
a cloth glove over a rubber glove, and merely rub the wet glove over the foliage of
the weed* With wild onion, grab the base of the plant and let the hand slide
across the foliage.
But remember that just getting rid of weeds will not make a beautiful
lawn. Weeds appear only when grass in a lawn is not doing well. So fertilize your
lawn in the early spring and fall. Do not clip closer than 1 1/2 inches. When
watering, soak the soil to a depth of six inches. By following these practices,
you can eliminate most weed problems without spraying.
-30-
PACrcm
5/27/58
i • s ,
•:
. • -
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Larger Dairy Herds Mean Less Labor per Cow
URBANA — Labor requirements per cow go down as the herd expands
on a dairy farm.
Leo Fryman, extension dairy specialist at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture, reports a USDA study that shows an
average of 129 man-hours a year to take care of a 10-cow herd.
In the same study, a 30-cow herd needed only 80-man hours per
cow. Thus tripling the size of the herd less than doubled the work
needed to care for it.
Dairy farming takes about the most labor any farm operation,
Fryman says. Only tobacco production takes more work. It takes about
52 man-hours of labor on a dairy farm today to produce $100 worth of
product. Beef cattle take about 22 man-hours for each $100 worth of
product, and broilers need only 13 man-hours.
This study was made in southern Minnesota, where the year is
divided into a 29-week winter barn period and a 23-week summer period.
Labor requirements are greater in winter than in summer.
-30-
RAJ: cm
5/28/58
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rabbits More Profitable With Good Care
URBANA — Rabbits raised for pets and commercial use will be
more profitable if handled properly, according to Dr. George T. Woods,
extension veterinarian of the University of Illinois,
Never lift rabbits by the ears or legs, advises Dr. Woods.
Young or small rabbits may be lifted and carried by grasping the loin
gently but firmly with the heel of the hand toward the tail of the
animal.
For medium-weight and heavier rabbits, take hold of the loose
skin over the shoulders with one hand and place the other hand under
the rump. This supports the weight from beneath. Remember to keep
the rabbit turned away from you to prevent scratches.
Proper feeds and feeding are just as important to success with
rabbits as with any other livestock. Regularity in feeding is more
important than the number of feedings. Since rabbits eat more at night,
many rabbit growers prefer to feed in the late afternoon or evening.
Never feed sour or greasy table leftovers. It may be more
convenient to feed commercial rabbit feeds. If so, be sure to follow
the company's directions. Cheap feeds may prove more costly because of
their failure to provide the proper nutrients.
Water is just as important as any other part, of the ration.
Keep clean water before the rabbits at all times. A doe and her young
will drink up to a gallon of water in 24 hours.
-more-
I
"
-
.
' •
.
•
■1
■
■
6
, -
'
• .
Add Rabbits - 2
Dr. Woods say a strict sanitation program is the best guard
against disease and parasite losses. Prevention costs less than the
cure. Remove manure, soiled bedding and stale feed daily. Wash water
crocks and feed troughs often. Use hot, soapy water and then rinse in
clear water, drain well and dry in the sun. If sun drying isn't
practical, rinse the equipment in a disinfectant solution after washing,
and then rinse with clear water.
Rabbits showing symptoms of disease should be isolated from
the herd immediately and inspected by a veterinarian. Detailed informa-
tion on diseases and parasites may be secured from the Superintendent
of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington 25, D.C.
-30-
. JER:cm
5/28/58
•
i
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Advisers' Conference, June 3-5
URBANA — More than 160 Illinois farm advisers and their assist-
ants will attend the annual summer conference on the University of
Illinois campus June 3-5.
During the opening session Tuesday afternoon, Dean Louis B.
Howard of the College of Agriculture will discuss the future of the
University in the next ten years. Associate Dean h. W. Hannah will
report on the student picture, new curricula and new courses.
During the three-day meeting, advisers will receive reports
on latest developments in entomology, animal diseases, 4-H and rural
youth work, horticulture, forestry, agricultural engineering, dairy
science, animal science, agronomy and agricultural economics. They
will tour the research farms and see the work in progress.
W. G. Kammlade, associate director of extension, will report
on administrative matters Thursday morning. The conference will adjourn
Thursday noon.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/28/58
ri ' [J ■ ..*
:
;
■ ■■ . '
• • •
':• :. .
■'-■■■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis is prepared as a special service by the University of
[llinois grain marketing staff for the week ending May 29, 1958) •
)ry Weather, World Politics Strengthen Grain Prices
URBANA--Dry weather in northern Illinois, the Dakotas, Montana and Canada,
long with tense political situations in France and Lebanon, strengthened grain
rices during this past week, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of ll-
inois grain marketing staff.
Corn gained a cent, new wheat two cents, oats 1 1/2 cents and soybeans
about one cent.
The dry weather in the corn belt is very spotty and in places that rarely
have drouth trouble. Crop conditions generally remain very favorable. It is too
early in the season to have a drouth scare in the eastern corn belt, Hieronymus
points out.
Spring wheat has been seeded satisfactorily, but more moisture is needed.
Before putting much weight on this factor, we should remember that the prospective
winter wheat crop is larger than last yearfs winter and spring crops combined.
The new wheat price has recovered about five cents from the low reached
two weeks ago. Behind this uptrend are dry weather, a short supply of old wheat for
immediate delivery, considerable amounts of new wheat sold for export in June, de-
clining inventories of millers which put them in a strong buying position during
early harvest, and current farm prices substantially below the loan. The trade
felt that farmers would store rather than sell at this price.
The support price is the only factor that keeps the current wheat price
above the much lower feed price. The question is at what price the loan will stop
the downward pressure on wheat. Several weeks ago Hieronymus pointed out that the
new wheat price is now higher in relation to the loan than it has been at harvest
-more-
-
• ■
■
*
-
.. J
' 8 ■
-2-
in any of the past five years. In years of large crops, the price has gone 15
to 30 cents lower in relation to the loan than it is now.
He has also pointed out that an unusually large amount of wheat is not
eligible for loan because it is being grown on 15-acre fields and above allotments.
During the past week new crop sales by Illinois and Indiana farmers have
increased. They seem to be ready to sell at $1.60 to $1.65 rather than put it into
the loan.
Beginning June 2, the Commodity Credit Corporation will assume ownership
of a large quantity of soybeans now on farms. The CCC selling policies will de-
termine the price from now until the new crop is harvested. It appears that their
sales price will be about the current market price. New crop soybean prices are
above the loan if we take into account the cost of storage.
-30-
HDG:cm
5/28/58
• - i .
■"
■ ■ ■
"■
. ■ ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lester Ranz Increases Gross Income $100 Per Cow
URBANA — in the past four years, Lester Ranz of Trenton,
Clinton county, has increased his gross income per cow by $100.
Ranz sells Grade A milk in the St. Louis milkshed. His in-
come has gone up as a result of an increase of more than 100 pounds
per cow in the average butterfat production of his herd.
Since taking over active management of the home farm four
years ago, he has cooperated in the Clinton county farm and home de-
velopment program sponsored by the County Extension Service, the Dairy
Herd Improvement Association, the Soil Conservation District and the
Southern Illinois Breeding Association.
Ranz uses his DHIA records as a guide for setting up a cull-
ing, feeding and breeding system that works very well for him. He
culls low-producing cows, feeds his cows according to the production
of each and follows a definite schedule in breeding cows and giving
them a dry vacation period so that they can get ready for the next
lactation.
Clinton County Farm Adviser B. E. Sinclair of Breese, in
cooperation with the SCS technician, has just completed a basic con-
servation plan for the farm that includes more pasture, roughage and
silage for the dairy program. The plan also includes a complete crop
rotation and water conservation practices.
Increased farm income has been used for such improvements as
a bulk tank cooler, pipeline milker system, pressure water system and
lome appliances. Mr. and Mrs. Ranz set goals and plans that can be
-arried out with income from the farm. They also take a two weeks'
vacation each year.
-30-
*AJ:cm
IS/2/58
'
.
.
■
. -
■
. ■
.
.
•
•
..
-
-
Farm News
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE
Wet Corn stored Last Fall Now Dried Out
URBANA — Natural drying has removed most of the excess mois-
ture from corn stored on many Illinois farms last fall, according to
agricultural economists R. J. Mutti and M. R. Langham at the University
of Illinois College of Agriculture.
The moisture content now averages about 1/2 percentage point
above the long-time average.
Moisture of most corn samples taken by Champaign county ASC
staff members now runs below 15.5 percent, the top limit for No. 2 corn.
Even corn with moisture content of more than 22 percent at harvest now
carries little, if any, moisture discount, Mutti and Langham point out.
The economists state that, farmers gain from drying high-
moisture corn while stored until it drops to 15.5 percent moisture.
Practically all of this gain from holding has now taken place. Further
moisture losses will mean a loss in value, since the value of the loss
in weight of corn to be sold is not offset by a reduction in discounts.
Further moisture losses can be expected this summer, the
economists report* The value of these losses will average about one
cent a bushel a month. Farmers who hold corn also have costs for in-
terest, insurance, shelling loss and damage. These will add up to about
1 1/2 to 2 cents a bushel every month the corn is held. Any allowance
for storage space would add to these costs.
The only way these costs can be recovered is through a price
rise. So careful consideration of market, prospects is particularly
important now, the economists conclude.
-30-
HDG:cm
S/2/58
■■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Urges People to Pressure Boards of Review to Act
URBANA — Illinois citizens should exert pressure on their
county board of review to comply v/ith the law and bring about fair
assessments in all townships of the county. This advice comes from
Norm Krausz, University of Illinois associate professor of agricultural
law.
Krausz points out that the law sets up the board of review
as an equalizing authority. The board* s duty is to lower or raise
the total assessed value of property in any assessment district within
the county so that such property will be justly assessed between dis-
tricts.
Some counties are alert and taking steps to improve their
assessments. Krausz reports that at least one county has employed pro-
fessional appraisers to make sample appraisals in each township. These
samples supply data from which township assessment ratios can be de-
veloped. A number of other counties have appointed supervisors of
assessment in order that equality may be achieved in the original
assessment.
Just last year the legislature amended the Revenue Act re-
quiring that boards of review take action and perform their duty. This
law resulted after vehement protests against the continued failure of
county tax officials to achieve substantial equality in assessments
within their jurisdiction. Examples of gross inequality were publi-
cized widely. Demands were made that the state take over the job of
equalizing between townships, since boards of review were not doing it.
-more-
-
■
■-
-
;
-
I
Add Boards of Review - 2
Legislation was actually introduced along these lines. But
those who believed that this equalizing job should be done at the local
level were able to get a watered-down version of the bill passed.
Krausz believes the mood of the legislature was to give
boards of review one more chance. If they do not come through this
time/ further changes will be necessary.
Actually the General Assembly did include a provision to
the effect that if the board of review does not do the job, the Depart-
ment of Revenue shall do it. But the language used makes the effective-
ness of this provision doubtful, Krausz points out. But the implied
warning is clear.
This new legislation gives the board of review no powers or
duties that differ greatly from those it had before. But it does pro-
vide for helpful means for carrying out the equalization function.
It is a long-established policy in Illinois government to let
citizens administer their own local affairs. However, Krausz points
out that there has been a strong and growing tendency toward centraliz-
ing most government activities. The reason is that citizens have been
unable or unwilling to take the responsibility that must accompany the
privilege of local government. Tax administration has been, a glaring
example, Krausz concludes.
-30-
HDG:cm
6/2/58
!
■
• 1
::
i
■
■
:
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Corn Performance Tests Serve Seed Growers and Farmers
URBANA — University of Illinois agronomists will conduct 1,022
different seed corn tests during 1958 at 10 different fields around the
state. This seed will be supplied by 56 different growers who will also
contribute more than $15,000 to carry out this project.
Earl Leng, corn breeder at the University in charge of this
testing program, points out that no seed producer is required to sub-
mit his corn for testing. All entries are entirely voluntary.
The results of all tests will be assembled and published as
soon after harvest as possible. This report covers yields, moisture
percent at harvest, percent of erect plants and stand.
In past years the report has been available in late January
or early February. Both farmers and growers have shown high interest
in the test results. Nearly 12,000 copies of the 1957 tests were dis-
tributed.
This seed test program has expanded steadily in recent years.
In 1953 there were test fields at five locations. This year there are
10. The number of participating grov/ers has climbed from 44 to 56. The
number of entries being tested has jumped from 378 to 1,022.
Six of the test fields a :e located on private farms. The co-
operating farm operator receives no special payment for use of his land
except that the seed is furnished for the tests. He does get the har-
vested corn after it is weighed and analyzed. The agronomy department
staff does the planting by hand.
-more-
'
■
Add Corn Performance Tests - 2
Soil on the fields is prepared in the normal way. The farm
operator does the cultivating. Harvesting of each entry is handled
by the agronomists with help from the seedsmen. Each entry that is
tested consists of two rows five hills long, repeated three times.
Test fields at DeKalb, Urbana and Brownstown are on Univer-
sity of Illinois experiment fields. At Wolfe Lake in extreme southern
Illinois, the test field is located on the property of the Shawnee high
school, and agronomists at Southern Illinois University assist with
the tests.
Farmers and all those who are interested in seeing the test
fields are welcome to visit them when they are harvested. But since
the real differences show up in the yields, which must be calculated
after harvest, Leng says most farmers show more interest in the pub-
lished report.
Differences between hybrids tested on the same field are
often not so great as differences between one field and another, Leng
reports. In 1957 average yields on the different fields ranged from
41 to 131 bushels an acre. The proportion of erect plants varied from
51 to 99 percent. Stands varied from 81 to 93 percent on the differ-
ent fields. The number of tests ranged from 56 to 132.
These differences from field to field can be explained by
soils, rainfall, temperatures and growing conditions in different parts
of Illinois. The distance from the field at Woodstock to that of Wolf
Lake is nearly 400 miles.
Results of the tests benefit both seedsmen and farmers.
Farmers can find out which hybrids do best in their area. Seedsmen
can find out which of their hybrids perform best and will prove most
profitable for their customers. They can then push production of their
best types and discard those that won't perform so well as the others.
-30-
KDGrcm
6/2/58
;
• ■
.
■
1
.
■•
"
•
• J .
-
•
- : •
- '
•
.
.
..
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
An Egg Is Never Fresher Than When It's Laid
URBANA — Egg quality is a downhill run all the way.
The best that Illinois poultrymen can hope for in hot summer
weather is to follow recommended practices and keep egg quality as high
as possible, says S. F. Ridlen, extension poultry specialist at the
University of Illinois College of Agriculture.
USDA studies in the midwest show that egg producers who do
follow recommended practices can market 90 percent Grade A eggs.
Farmers who do not, market only 55 percent Grade A eggs.
Ridlen suggests first that you use well-bred stock. Blood
spots, meat spots, egg weight and shell weight are inherited. Chickens
can be bred to produce high-quality eggs.
Keep a young flock, older hens produce eggs with thinner
whites and weaker shells. Replace them with pullets.
Control diseases. Outbreaks of some diseases are accompanied
by a loss in egg quality. Quality often stays low after production
goes back up. Some poultry drugs cause the shells to become weak and
rough.
Reduce egg breakage. To market unbroken eggs, gather at least
twice a day, provide one nest for every four hens, handle eggs gently
and start well-bred stock each year.
Produce clean eggs. Ninety-nine percent of all eggs are
clean at the time they are laid. When gathered, up to 30 percent of
them are soiled. To check this loss, keep the litter dry, keep nest-
ing material clean and dry and confine the laying hens.
Aim for higher interior quality of eggs. Cool them quickly
and then hold the temperature at about 55 degrees. Pack them with the
small end down.
Market frequently, preferably at least twice a week.
-30-
RVM : cm
6/2/58
i
■
■
■
•'
.
-
yjn • • • •
. ■ ■ ■
■
.
)
•
.
.
!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chemical Mixture Helps Burn Out Stumps
URBANA — Forestry researchers C S. Walters and K. R. Peterson
of the University of Illinois College of Agriculture have developed a
new chemical mixture that helps home owners destroy stumps by burning,
Walters and Peterson call their new mixture "Stumpfyre. "
This combination of chemicals has been patented by the University.
Stumpfyre can be made of the following mixture of powdered
chemicals: three parts by weight of cupric chloride, nine parts of
sodium dichromate, two parts of lead acetate and two parts of manganese
chloride. For use, this mixture is thinned with water to the consist-
ency of thick molasses.
The forestry researchers recommend cutting the stump as
close to the ground as possible. Then bore vertical holes 1 to 1 1/2
inches in diameter about 5 to 6 inches deep but not cut through the
bottom. Keep outside holes within 2 inches of the bark. In root
extensions bore holes 3 to 4 inches apart and as deep as possible with-
out going through the bottom.
Pour about 1/4 cup of Stumpfyre into each of the holes. Let
it diffuse through the wood for two to three months before burning*
Burn the stump after a 10-day dry period in August or September.
Cover the stump with plenty of dry kindling to start the fire. It's
a good idea to fence around the stump to keep small children and animals
away.
Test stumps have smouldered for two to three weeks, depending
on their size, the weather and thoroughness of treatment.
Tests at the University of Illinois with this mixture have
shown about 80 percent of stumps destroyed that were treated. This
compares with about 30 percent destroyed when no chemical was used.
For full information on this process, write to the College of
Agriculture, Urbana, Illinois, for a copy of the new circular 795,
"Burning Tree Stumps With Stumpfyre.
RAJ: cm ~30~
6/3/58
.
•
'
.
■
■
■
■
J
- . .
■ '
-
■ .
' '■ " ' ■ ■ ' ~ ' • '"
: '
:•■
■
•..-
■ .
.
!
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sverywhere The Worm Goes, The Bag Goes.,.
URBANA — And everywhere the worm goes# the bag goes! This un-
usual phrase is applied to the Thyr idopteryx ephemeraeformiS/ better
cnown as the bagworm.
In case you're not familiar with the bagworm, he is a well-
known connoisseur of evergreens as well as deciduous trees and shrubs.
He is capable of completely defoliating these plants, causing ever-
greens to die and seriously injuring deciduous trees.
These pests derive their name from the bags they construct
soon after hatching. Bags are built with silken threads and bits of
foliage taken from host plants. And the bags get larger right along
with the worms.
Main purpose of the bags is to serve as an overwintering
j: place for bagworm eggs. Although both males and females construct bags,
i the males leave their bags in late summer and fly about to mate with
| the females. Each female may lay as many as 500 eggs in her bag. After
laying eggs, the females die. There is only one generation each year.
«The eggs in the bags begin to hatch in southern Illinois
uring the latter part of May; in central Illinois, about the first
week of June; and in northern Illinois, the latter part of June.
Newly hatched worms feed on nearby foliage. And since these
Duncan Hines' of the worm world stop feeding in late summer, June is
just about the best month to apply sprays to control them. Also, the
smaller the worms, the easier they are to kill.
-more-
•■ - ' ' ■ - ' '
......
-
■ ■
■ ■ ... \ .
■
1
•• •
. . f '
6 C
:
too OJ " •
Add Bagworms - 2
According to L. L. English, entomologist with the Illinois
Natural History Survey, several chemicals will effectively control bag-
worms. He suggests mixing with a gallon of water any one of the follow-
ing chemicals: one tablespoon of lead arsenate; two teaspoons of 50
percent liquid malathion; one tablespoon of malathion, 25 percent of
wettable powder; or three teaspoons of 60 percent liquid toxaphene.
Caution: malathion may injure Cannart juniper,
English emphasizes that spraying should be done in June while
the bagworms are small. He adds that sprays are not completely effec-
tive unless the foliage infested with the worms is thoroughly sprayed.
In fact, more than one spray application may be necessary if rain
follows soon after treatment.
Bagworm populations can also be reduced by picking off and
burning the overwintering bags.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/3/58
. -
■ ' ■
*
i
I
■
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Care of the Strawberry Patch After Harvesting
by Chester C. Zych
Department of Horticulture, University of Illinois
URBANA— The number of crops a strawberry bed will produce depends on
the condition of the "bed after the first picking season.
Such conditions as poor soil fertility, weeds or insects sometimes make
a second crop inadvisable. However, it will usually pay to renovate a "bed planted
to a vigorous variety that has been well cared for the first season.
The best time to renew a strawberry bed is in early summer immediately
after the crop is harvested. First, clip off the foliage with a sickle or scythe.
Or, if the patch is large, use a mowing machine with the cutter bar set fairly high.
If the mulch is heavy and has not rotted down, some may have to be removed.
After the leaves dry, rake them with the remaining mulch from the plant
tops to the middles between rows. Sometimes the bed is then burned over. It is
best to do the burning on a windy day, preferably after a rain, when the ground will
be moist. If there is no wind and the plant crowns are dry, a slow fire will injure
them. Burning helps to prevent many diseases and insects, but is not recommended if
the ground is dry or the mulch and leaves are damp. If conditions make burning un-
wise, rake the leaves and mulch, remove them from the patch and then burn them.
After the bed has been cleaned up, the renovation process can be completed
in one of several ways. In some cases it may be wise to narrow the rows to about
12 inches. Either remove a strip of plants on each side, or cut off half of each
row (always on the same side.)
If the original rows have spread to three feet or more, work out the
centers, making two narrow rows from each wide one. Use a hand hoe, grape hoe,
-more-
■
.
■
■
■
:
■
■
-
:
■
.
.
■
'
•
. .'
•
-
'
-2-
plow or similar tool, depending on the patch size. If the remaining rows are
heavily matted, cut out some of the older plants.
Also thin out unproductive plants. Thinning gives the remaining plants
a chance to produce new rows of vigorous, healthy plants. Early- formed runner
plants may make the most productive fruiting plants the next season. Under favorable
conditions most of the healthy older plants will also form new fruiting plants at
the crowns.
Next, spread a cover of well- rotted manure on the patch. Be sure to work
it in carefully around the plants. If manure is not available, apply a commercial
fertilizer either by drilling or by hand application near the plants. Fertilizer
should not remain in direct contact with the foliage or crowns, because it may burn
the plant. Various kinds and amounts of fertilizer may be used.
If good cultivation and weed and insect control are practiced after ren-
ovation, new plants will form that will usually produce a large crop the next year.
During dry weather after renovation, irrigation may be necessary.
It is seldom advisable to fruit a bed for more than two years. But straw-
berries may again follow in a rotation of vegetables or farm crops.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/3/58
• o
■
R ■■■;■
■ ■ ■ .
s ;
' •' ' ...
•'•■.. ■.! '
. • . . ... .
\
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Note to Selected Editors: This story on the appointment of Dr. Ross as
the new head for the Department of Animal Science was released by the
University's Office of Public Information. Since you may not be on
their mailing list, we thought you would want a copy. A picture of
Dr. Ross is available on request.
Name O. B. Ross to Head Animal Science Department
I URBANA — one of the nation's outstanding animal scientists,
Dr. o. Burr Ross of Salina, Kansas, has been named head of the depart-
ment of animal science at the University of Illinois College of Agri-
culture.
The appointment is effective July 1. He succeeds Dr. L. E.
Card, who recently accepted the assignment as group leader of the Uni-
versity of Illinois agricultural staff working under the University's
ICA contract in India.
In recommending the new department head, Dean Louis B. Howard
pointed out that "Dr. Ross has an unusual combination of qualifications
for the animal science headship. With his farm background, he is
thoroughly familiar with practical farm problems. His work as head of
swine research at the University of Wisconsin and beef cattle research
at the University of Oklahoma has given him a solid background of experi-
ence in two of the most important livestock fields. In addition, he
has compiled an enviable record as an animal nutritionist, teacher and
judging team coach. As present general manager of the Gooch Feed Mill
Company, he is completely familiar with the problems of agricultural
industry. "
Born and raised on a Nebraska farm, Dr. Ross was graduated
from the University of Nebraska in 1936 with a bachelor of science
-more-
■
• -
.'._.. •
.
i
■ *
•
-
•
•■ ■ "
1 - " ko
'* ■ .
'
Add O. B. ROSS - 2
degree in animal husbandry. He attended Iowa state College in the
summer of 1937 and received both his master of science degree in 1939
and doctor of philosophy degree in 1942 from the University of Wisconsin
in the fields of biochemistry and animal husbandry.
Prior to his army service from 1943 to 1946, he served on
the staff at the University of Tennessee in charge of sheep and at the
University of Wisconsin in charge of swine and coached both livestock
and meat judging teams. His army service was as a captain and nutri-
tion officer in the sanitary corps of the medical department in the
Pacific Theater, New Guinea, the Philippines and Japan.
In 1946 Dr. Ross was named professor of animal husbandry at
Oklahoma State University and headed the nutrition research of that
department until 1951. In March 1951 he joined the Gooch Feed Mill
Company to head the research and technical service department. Later
that year he was named general manager of the company and has served
in that capacity to the present time.
During his years of undergraduate and graduate teaching
and research experience, Dr. Ross has authored or helped to author 76
publications in the field of both swine and beef cattle research.
Dr. Ross has been characterized as a versatile westerner,
brought up on a Nebraska farm, who has not forgotten the farmers' prob-
lems. He is equally at home in the show ring, the feedlot, the labora-
tory and the packing plant. He has coached a winning meat judging team
:rom the University of Wisconsin at the Chicago International Livestock
Exposition.
An outstanding graduate student at the University of Wiscon-
sin, his excellent foundation and interest in animal science coupled
with his experience as a manager in industry equip him well for an un-
usual spot in the animal industry. He was also an oustanding 4-H Club
member and was one of the two Nebraska delegates to National 4-H Club
Camp in Washington, D. C, during his 4-H years.
-30-
HR: cm
i 6/3/58
■
' .
.
.
5
■
'
:\
• :
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Figure Costs Carefully Before Investing in Irrigation
URBANA — Illinois farmers were urged this week to figure costs
and returns carefully before investing in irrigation,
Velmar Davis, USDA agricultural economist working at the Uni-
versity of Illinois, pointed out that farmers are often impressed with
the high yields obtained by irrigating during dry years. But they
fail to consider the costs of getting that extra yield.
Irrigation is costly, Davis stated. Success with irrigation
requires high-level management and know-how in all practices that affect
crop production and operation costs.
Davis pointed out that farmers must, consider three types of
costs. These are the original investment, such as drilling a well or
building a reservoir and the pumping and distributing equipment; the
annual overhead costs, such as depreciation, interest and taxes, which
are about the same no matter how much the system is used; and the annual
operating costs, such as fuel, labor and repairs, that vary with the
amount of use.
Farmers are urged to get an estimate from their dealers on
the cost of an .irrigation system on their farms. Then they should
figure the annual costs of owning and operating it. For a system that
costs about $150 an acre to start with, Davis estimates that the annual
overhead costs will be about $15.60, or about 10.4 percent of the in-
vestment. Operating costs will be about $10.50 to make three 2-inch
applications of water. So in this case a farmer would need an extra
crop income of $26.10 an acre to recover his irrigation costs.
-more-
. •
:
■
■
.
Add Irrigation Costs - 2
Davis figures that, if corn is worth $1.20 a bushel, it will
take 27 more bushels of corn an acre to break even with this irrigation
system. Besides the cost of irrigation, a farmer would have additional
costs for fertilizer, seed, harvesting and hauling the extra corn. If
corn is worth only $1.00 a bushel, the corn would have to yield 35
bushels more.
When a farmer with irrigation changes his water application
rate, he also changes the number of bushels needed to break even. For
each additional two inches of water applied, farmers will need about 5
more bushels of corn to cover irrigation operating costs and the in-
creased costs of fertilizer, harvesting and hauling when corn is $1.00
a bushel, 4 bushels more when corn is $1.20 and 3 bushels more when
corn is $1.40.
More detailed information about irrigation costs, returns
and experiences of farmers can be obtained from the Department of
Agricultural Economics/ University of Illinois, Urbana. Ask for Farm
Management Facts and opinions Nos. 162 and 163.
-30-
HDG:Cm
6/3/58
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Select Four 4-H Danforth Scholarship Winners
URBANA — Winners of the 1958 Danforth Scholarship awards for
Illinois 4-H Club members are Phyllis Floyd, 20, Alexis, Mercer county;
Shirley Kessler, 17, Auburn, Sangamon county; Howard Werkheiser, 19,
Kewanee, Henry county; and Robert Bohlen, 18, Moweaqua, Shelby county.
These four young people will enjoy two full weeks of leader-
ship training and outdoor life this summer at the American Youth Founda-
tion Leadership Training Camp at Camp Miniwanca on Lake Michigan near
Shelby, Michigan.
Miss Mildred Benz, Jackson county assistant youth adviser,
Murphysboro, and Miss Florine McConachie, Randolph county assistant
youth adviser, Sparta, will serve as camp counselors during the girls*
camping session from July 28 to August 10. The boys will attend the
camp from August 11 to 24.
The Danforth Foundation, a private family fund started by
the late W. H. Danforth, former chairman of the board of the Ralston
Purina Company, St. Louis, sponsors the award for Miss Floyd and
Werkheiser. Expenses of Miss Kessler, Bohlen and the two youth assist-
ants are being paid by the Illinois 4-H Foundation.
These four outstanding Illinois 4-H Club members and two
assistant advisers were selected for this honor by the state 4-H Club
staff at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. The four were
selected to represent the more than 63,000 Illinois 4-H Club members
on the basis of their club activities and leadership, scholarship and
character.
These awards cover the full cost of the two-week camping period.
-30-
RAJ: cm
6/3/58
"
■
Farm News
NIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DHIA Production Highest on Record
URBANA — Illinois dairy herds enrolled in Dairy Herd improve-
ment record-keeping programs during 1957 set new production records
for both milk and butter fat.
G. W. Harpestad, extension dairy specialist at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture, reports that 1,640 herds com-
pleted the testing year. Average 1957 production per cow was 10,217
pounds of milk and 396 pounds of butterfat.
This was an increase of 133 pounds of milk and 7 pounds of
butterfat over the previous year's record high figures, Harpestad says.
Nearly half (791) of the herds on test went over the high
average of 400 pounds of butterfat. This is also an all-time high.
Of this number, 82 herds averaged more than 500 pounds of butterfat.
More cows are enrolled in dairy record-keeping programs in
Illinois now than ever before. On January 1, 1953, the list showed
66,456 cows enrolled. This represents about 8.8 percent of all the
dairy cows in the state, of the enrolled cows, 82 percent were in
standard Dairy Herd Improvement associations. The rest were enrolled
in owner-sampler or Weigh- a- Day- a- Month record-keeping programs.
-30-
RAj:cm
6/5/58
•
.
'
'
'
'.'
I
'• .
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farm Real Estate Taxes to Hit New High
URBANA — Illinois farm land owners will pay more than $100
million in real estate taxes for 1958, according to estimates made
today by C. L. Stewart, University of Illinois land economist.
Speaking before the annual summer conference of farm advisers
this week, Stewart pointed out that this amount is nearly $3 million
more than the total paid by California land owners and over $15 million
more than by Iowa farm owners.
From 1940 to 1956, Illinois farm real estate taxes jumped by
220 percent. All other states also showed increases, but not this much,
the land economist pointed out. For all 48 states, the average rise
for the 16-year period was 133 percent.
While Illinois owners hold 7,1 percent of the nation's total
farm real estate value, they are assessed for 9.8 percent of the farm
realty taxes.
Expressed in terms of value, Stewart estimates that Illinois
taxes will be more than $1.25 per $100 value in 1958. In 1956, real
estate taxes took 9.2 percent of the net income per acre. In 1954 this
figure was 8.4 and in 1951 6.1 percent.
Stewart stressed three major areas where clearer understanding
of Illinois farm tax problems is needed.
Those laying assessments and judging soundness of assessments
must clearly recognize the differences among soil types and their
effects upon land values.
-more-
■ _ .
.
• -
,
-
'
.
..
■
'
•
.
Add Farm Taxes - 2
Land values in different parts of a county may be difficult
to recognize when so few farms are now being sold. This makes it
difficult to intelligently apply multipliers to keep assessments in
line between townships. Multipliers applied separately to farm and
non-farm real estate would be an improvement.
Real estate tax burdens might be relieved if such government
units as townships and counties were consolidated and if other types
of taxes were allowed to share more of the cost of government, Stewart
concluded.
-30-
HDGtcm
6/5/58
:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
" Summer ize" Your Safety Habits
URBANA — As vacation days roll around, our enthusiasm for the
great outdoors may blind us to the fact that a lot of other people have
the same idea. Traffic will be heavier, whether our destination is a
picnic in the neighborhood park or a trip to the mountains or seashore.
Here's your personal chance to "back the attack" en accidents,
says 0. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist at the University of
Illinois College of Agriculture. Plan your trip to allow enough time
and to take into account conditions involving the driver, the car, high-
way traffic, weather and time of day. Avoid fatigue, hurry and dis-
tractions.
And, when you arrive, don't try to get a year's suntan in
two weeks. Avoid overexposure to the sun and the heat exhaustion or
sunstroke that follows. Be sure you know the difference in symptoms
and treatment between the two.
Then there are hazards from lightning, fishing, swimming
and boating, not to mention such pests as poison ivy, insects and
snakes and the always-present danger from fire and burns.
We're not trying to discourage you from taking a vacation.
Don't stay home. Just "summer ize" your safety habits.
-30-
0LH:cm
6/5/58
.
■
■
. .
. I
n
'
:
1
|
■
'
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
tever Use Plant Pesticides on Animals
URBANA — Never use plant pesticides on livestock, says Dr. R. P.
Link of the university of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine,
Though the same material as is used to control plant pests
lay also be used in preparations designed for use on animals, the
:oncentration and chemical formulation may be vastly different. And
:he difference can mean a sick animal.
Farm livestock are most commonly poisoned when the insecti-
:ides are absorbed through the skin, licked from the hair coat or eaten
>n treated pasture or forage. Avoid these dangers by using the insecti-
:ide according to the manufacturer's directions, says Dr. Link.
Most organic phosphate insecticides are so highly poisonous
:hat they should not be used on livestock. However, they can be used
>n crops if the feed is not given to livestock until the insecticides
iave disappeared. This will take from a few days to three weeks.
Lindane, chlordane, methoxychlor and DDT can be safely used
>n domestic animals in the wettable powder form, oil solutions, however,
>ften cause poisoning by being absorbed through the skin.
Another possible cause of poisoning may come from animals'
.icking the insecticide from their hair, but this is hard to prevent,
>oints out Dr. Link. If the insecticide is to have a lasting effect,
iome of it will have to stay on the animal.
Any of the new insecticides can be used without danger of
residues on crops, provided enough time is allowed between spraying
and grazing or harvesting.
Dr. Link says this time interval will vary with the insec-
:icide and the weather. Rain may wash off much of the residue, and dry,
rindy weather will also hasten removal. But cool, still weather will
.et the chemical stay on the plant longer.
-30-
JER:Cm
6/5/58
,
.
J .
. '
,
■
IB i
■ '
I
■ '
8
"
•
'
'
•
I
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis for the week ending June 6, 1958> is prepared as a spe-
cial service by the University of Illinois grain marketing staff. )
Tains Cause New Crop Price Decline; Old Crop Prices Steady
URBANA— Rains throughout the corn "belt and the prairie provinces of Canada
lowered new crop grain prices this past week, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the
University of Illinois grain marketing staff. New crop wheat and corn prices
droppped about 3 cents a bushel. Old crop grain prices held generally firm.
Private forecasters estimated the winter wheat crop at 1,060 million
bushels, 50 million above the May 1 government estimate. They forecast a spring
wheat crop of 202 million. So it looks as if the wheat crop will run about 300
million bushels above domestic and export needs. This will require a huge into-loan
movement. Harvest is expanding rapidly in the Southwest, with high yields reported.
Old crop corn prices dropped about a cent this past week, but demand re-
mains very good. The market supply is short and a lot of corn is needed. Corn
stocks in commercial positions, particularly in terminals, are small if CCC stocks
are excluded. The cash corn picture points to steady to higher prices.
However, Hieronymus emphasizes that an over-all appraisal of the corn
statistics makes the picture look extremely bearish. Corn use the first half of
the marketing year would indicate an increase of about 200 million bushels in carry-
over. The total would add up to about 1.6 billion bushels. Loan movement through
April 15 was running about 302 million bushels compared with 398 million bushels
a year ago. About 120 million bushels were under the low loan rate, and this corn
can now be profitably redeemed.
CCC corn sales continue small. However, sales for the year will probably
run as high as, or higher than, the net into-loan movement. So the free carryover
of corn will run about 200 million bushels larger than last year. This abundance
-more-
• • ■ - ■ •■
■..'-
•' ' ■ . '
.' . ' -": ! - . ■
[B -
■ . ' - •
Id ) . - . .
■ . I - . - .
. .._ .
'■■■■' - .. . • . •
... . . .....
■ •_ . - . . . ...
■
-2-
points to a sharp decline in old crop corn before harvest unless the new crop is
threatened by adverse weather.
It seems clear that either the people with corn to sell are not figuring
accurately or the disappearance figures are in error. There seems to be a scarcity
situation in the midst of abundance. If this turns out to be true, corn prices are
apt to weaken as soon as farmers feel that the new crop is made.
Corn use may have been larger in the first half of the marketing year than
the figures show. But for this to happen would require a major shift in consumption
rate. Unfortunately, the next report on corn disappearance will not be available
until the third week in July, Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HDG:cm
6/6/58
• ' ■ ' .■:
■"■.- ' . ■ • ' ' ■ .- ..... . .
...
• '•■■ ' • :
- .
•
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Favorable 1957 Farm Income Report May Be Misleading
URBANA — Most Illinois grain farms earned from $3,000 to
$4,000 less in 1957 even though they showed net incomes about the
same as or higher than in 1956. D. F. Wilken, University of Illinois
farm management specialist, today explained this apparently confusing
situation in this way:
Records of typical grain farms of 180 to 260 acres show that
grain sales in 1957 were about the same as the year before. They were
about $12,000 in each year. However, this grain was produced during
1956. This was an excellent crop year, and farmers had good inventories
on hand to sell during 1957. But the value of crops produced in 1957
was much lower.
What actually happened was that these farmers had less crops
to inventory at the end of the year, and the prices were much lower.
Crop inventory values on both livestock and grain farms were
reduced. However, the increased hog and cattle prices helped to keep
the value of production on livestock farms about the same in 1957 as
in 1956. Value of the livestock inventory increased enough on live-
stock farms to offset the drop in crop inventory. Most hog and cattle
farms averaged total cash incomes of $3,000 to $4,000 more, while grain
farms remained about the same.
Wilken points out that U. S. Department of Agriculture farm
income reports are based on cash incomes and do not figure change in
inventory values. For this reason, the 1957 farm income was reported
to be slightly higher than that of 1956.
-30-
HDGzcm
6/9/58
."•
.
•■
'
■ ■■'-•. -
■
...
• ' . t
\
'
.
.
•
1 • .
•
•
•
•
,
'
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Beware of Chiggers Z
URBANA — Beware of chiggers! This sign should be posted in
every area infested with chiggers during the summer. Trouble is,
though, that just too many places are infested.
Areas most likely to harbor chiggers include shaded woods,
iigh grass or weeds, orchards, berry patches, golf courses and even
lawns .
Adult chiggers pass the winter in protected places and hatch
;heir young in the spring. The young chigger is known as a larva. And
:he larva is the troublemaker.
These young chiggers attach themselves to the skin of people
>r to the skin of domestic animals. But before they settle down to
reed on their unsuspecting host, they scurry around for a suitable
.ocation. This is usually where clothing fits tightly over the skin,
>r where the flesh is thin, tender or wrinkled.
Like ticks, chiggers attach themselves by inserting their
touth parts in the skin — frequently in hair follicles or pores. Then
ley inject a fluid into the skin which dissolves the tissues. The
sniggers then suck up the liquefied tissue.
The fluid injected into -.he skin causes swelling, itching
tnd (in some persons) fever. Itching may be intense and, if nothing
.s done to relieve it, may continue a v/eek or longer.
Several repellents are effective against chiggers and should
be used by persons in infested areas. H. B. petty, entomologist with
the University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey, suggests
-more-
!
.
.
Add Chiggers - 2
any of the following: dimethyl phthalate, dimethyl carbate, ethyl
texanediol, or benzyl benzoate. When buying a chigger repellent, look
for these chemicals on the label. Apply the repellent to clothing
ilong the edges of all openings, inside and out. Arms and legs should
lIso be treated if they are not covered by clothing.
Petty warns that most people not using a repellent in a
:higger- infested area are usually attacked. He recommends taking a
>ath as soon as possible after you return home from a picnic or other
similar outings in infested areas, A bath will kill most or all of
:he attached chiggers and others that may not yet be attached.
Although destroying the chiggers reduces the itching, itching
rill not stop. The fluid injected by the chiggers cannot be removed,
md no treatment is known that will give permanent relief. However,
ipplying ammonia, alcohol or camphor v/ill give some relief.
For controlling chiggers in lawns, dieldrin gives satisfactory
results. Use two quarts of dieldrin, 15 percent concentrate, in 20 to
15 gallons of water per acre. Two pounds of chlordane or toxaphene,
>r 1/4 pound of lindane per acre will also control chiggers in lawns.
'or best results, adequately cover the ground, grass and lower parts
>f plants.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/9/58
.
.
•
-
•-
.
•
•
.
!
•
'
I
'
-
■
■ ■ ■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Fany Illinois Dairy Herds Make Honor Roll
URBANA — More Illinois dairy herds made the honor roll in 1957
than in any previous year.
A total of 791 dairy herds made an average of 400 or more
pounds of butterfat and were issued National Honor Roll Certificates
by the Purebred Dairy Cattle Association.
According to L. F. Fryman, University of Illinois extension
dairy specialist, the highest producing herd on DHIA test in Illinois last
year is owned by C. F. Nadelhoffer of Downers Grove. This 24-cow herd
averaged 13,103 pounds of milk and 592 pounds of butterfat. The aver-
age production record for Illinois dairy cows is less than half of this
figure.
The second highest producing herd is owned by Norman Henke,
Madison county. His herd averaged 16,210 pounds of milk and 582 pounds
of butterfat. The Henke herd was also the 1957 high-producing Holstein
herd.
For the third straight year, Russell Ernst, Macon county,
took high honors in the Milking Shorthorn competition. His 12 cows
averaged 9,872 pounds of milk and 404 pounds of butterfat.
The top Ayrshire herd in Illinois last year is owned by Frank
McDonald and son, Princeton. Their 24 cows averaged 11,682 pounds of
nilk with 498 pounds of butterfat.
Brown Swiss honors were captured by Frank oschner, Stephenson
:ounty. His herd averaged 13, 580 pounds and 550 pounds of milk and
mtterfat respectively.
-more-
•
Add Dairy Herds - 2
Rosewood Farm, Cook county/ took top honors in the Guernsey
>reed with an average of 11, 210 pounds of milk and 562 pounds of butter-
'at.
And Jersey honors were won by Fulton Farms of Red Bud, This
lerd averaged 10,100 pounds of milk and 525 pounds of butterfat.
Fryman points out that, although a high average is not the
»ain objective of DHIA testing work, there is a close correlation be-
:ween high production and good returns. That is why herds with high
>roduction are recognized by the Purebred Dairy Cattle Association
through the awarding of certificates.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/9/58
•' - :
•
,
■
•
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Prune Shrubs According to Blooming Time
by Harleigh Kemmerer
Landscape Gardening Specialist, University of Illinois
URBANA--There are many good reasons for pruning your shrubs: to remove
dead, diseased or injured wood; to remove overlapping branches; to rejuvenate the
plant; to shape plants; to keep them within the areas set aside for their growth;
and to offset loss of roots when transplanting.
It is best to prune most shrubs a little each year. Then drastic cutting,
which nearly always ruins the appearance of shrubs, isnft necessary for several
years .
Shrubs that bloom in the spring and early summer produce blossoms on wood
produced the year before. These shrubs should be pruned immediately after blooming.
Some examples are flowering almond, forsythia, flowering quince, lilac, mockorange,
garland spirea, Vanhoutei spirea and weigela.
Shrubs that bloom later in the summer anf fall produce flowers on new
wood. These shrubs should be pruned in early spring before growth starts or in
late fall after blooming. Shrubs in this group include rose of Sharon, butterfly-
bush, hype ri cum, honeysuckle, hydrangea and Anthony Waterer spirea.
Drastic pruning is justified when shrubs get out of hand. In the spring,
all branches can be cut to the ground and new growth will develop from the base of
the plant. Of course, on plants that flower on old wood, no flowers will appear
that year. These are the shrubs that can be pruned to the ground; Japanese bar-
berry, lilac, forsythia, privet, hydrangea — Hills of Snow, honeysuckle, sumac,
snowberry, Vanhoutei spirea and gray dogwood,
-more-
I
■
t
5
■ ■ ■ , ■ ■
" ■
■; '•
■ .'
.
:
■
:
■
■I " ,
i
.
■ . .
■ .
■
> . -
• - •
•
-2-
When planting new shrubs, prune one-third to one -half of the top growth.
This will compensate for the loss of roots when the plant was dug up. When a ball
of soil is attached to the roots, shrubs need less pruning.
These are the three main steps to follow in pruning shrubs: First prune
about one-third of the old canes to ground level. This stimulates new growth from
the roots. If you prune every year, you will never have a plant more than three
years old. You may also want to cut back some of the tall branches to reduce the
shrub height. When you do, cut back to a bud or side branch. Always aim to keep
the natural shape of the shrub when pruning.
-30-
PACtcm
6/9/58
- .
■
•
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Farm Population Growing older; Smaller Part of Country Dwellers
URBANA — Not only are farmers becoming a minority in our total
population, but they are also a minority in the total rural population.
According to C. L. Folse, University of Illinois rural sociologist,
more nonfarmers than farmers now live in the open country.
And the farm population is growing older, Folse points out.
More than 55 percent of all farmers are 45 years old. Almost one-half
of the families have no children under 18 years.
With these changes in farm population, the rural school is
passing out of the picture. Schools are moving to larger centers. The
basic property tax on farm land to support schools has become a burden
on farmers, who are paying a rather large part of their taxes to support
a smaller proportion of children. And churches and small business in
the small community are finding a shrinking patronage.
With the changing character of the farm family, an increasing
number of women on farms are finding jobs away from the farm, Folse
points out. in recent years the proportion of farm wives working out-
side the home has been increasing more rapidly than in any other group.
This trend insures a higher level of living and a constant income for
the farm family.
All of these changes decrease the political influence of farm
people in local communities. But they also tend to make rural living
more and more like that of city people, Folse concludes.
-30-
HDGtcm
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Measure Water Flow to Check Pond Structure Requirements
URBANA — University of Illinois agricultural engineers this
summer are checking up on the spillway capacity of outlets used in farm
ponds. To do this, they are actually measuring the flow of water
through the concrete spillway on Tomahawk Pond at the 4-H Memorial
Camp near Monticello.
To measure the water flow, the engineers plugged the spillway
and impounded about two feet of water above the normal spillway level.
The pond normally covering 2 1/2 acres spread out over 3.6 acres.
Last week the engineers pulled the spillway plug and measured
the water they had impounded. They used a Pitot tube, a special measur-
ing device invented by Pitot, a Frenchman. They also measured the
change in the pond water level and the rate of current flow in the
channel where the water flowed out. They are now making calculations
from all these data*
The unusual feature of this study is the fact that the engi-
neers measured the actual water f low. Usually the flow is figured from
the laboratory models and mathematical formulas. Nov/ the engineers
will have a chance to see whether the formulas used in designing the
structure agree with the real thing.
The next step will be to measure runoff from the drainage area
above the pond to determine whether present recommended spillway struc-
tures for farm ponds are larger and more expensive than necessary. If
the size of necessary spillway structures can be reduced, farmers will
be able to build adequate farm ponds at lower cost.
-30-
HDGtcm
6/12/58
.
•
.
I
'
.
-
-
■
■
-
•
'
.
'
■
'•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Twenty-Nine Complete Grain Dealers' Bookkeeping School
URBANA — Twenty-nine men and women from Illinois grain and
supply companies completed the Grain Dealers' Bookkeeping School held
at the university of Illinois this past week, according to L. F. Stice,
extension economist and chairman of arrangements for the school.
Participants from this area included: (Editor, fill in from
attached list) •
During the five-day school, students organized a set of books,
made typical entries, took trial balances, closed books and prepared
end-of-year statements.
The school was sponsored by the University's Department of
Agricultural Economics, Farmer Cooperative Service, U. S. Department of
Agriculture? the Farmers' GrainDealers Association of Illinois, the
Illinois Grain Dealers Association, the Illinois Agricultural Association
and the St. Louis Bank for Cooperatives.
Instructors for the course included R. J. Mutti and L. F.
Stice, University of Illinois Department of Agricultural Economics;
Nelda Griffin and Stanley K. Thurston, Farmer Cooperative Service;
Loren Pullum and John L. Baker, Illinois Agricultural Auditing Associ-
ation; H. F. Strickland, St. Louis Bank for Cooperatives; Warren T. Brown,
auditor, Peoria; E. Hugh Henning, auditor, Bloomington , and Robert C.
Roarty, certified public accountant, Pontiac.
All those satisfactorily completing the work during the five-
day school received a certificate of completion from Dean Louis B.
Howard of the College of Agriculture at a special presentation on Fri-
day afternoon.
-30-
HDGrcm
6/12/58
... •
-
- ■ ■:■ ■
. •. •■ .
...
i .
•
Grain Dealers
Name
Lloyd Alexander
Fleta May Austin
Mrs. Florence Bale
Gerhardt Balgeman
Norma Bilderback
Wilbur H. Brown
Mrs. Beulah Builta
Warren L. Call
Charles Dean Clark
George Funk
Don Geltmacher
William J. Grissom
Kenneth L. Hadler
Oliver Hale
Leonard Eulmes
Grace Klaus
Tyrone L. Lamie
Richard L. Magee
James Mee
Robert Morris
Eugene Morrison
Ruby L. Myers
Paul M. Phillippe
Frank Rudisill, Jr.
Mrs. Frank Rudisill, Jr.
Mayo W. Schaede
Frank R. Williams
Barbara Yund
Louis F. Zelle
Bookkeeping School Participants
June 9-13, 1958
Company
Pawpaw Co-op Grain Company
Alhambra Grain and Feed
Divernon Grain Company
Hers cher Grain Company
Tennessee Elevator
Farmers Square Deal Grain Company
Arrowsmith Grain Company
Illinois Farm Supply
Grain and Feed Journals
I. M. Funk and Son
Hannaman Elevator
Toledo Grain Company
Fisher Farmers Grain and Coal Company
Huegeley Elevator Company
Tuscola Co-op Grain Company
Alhambra Grain and Feed
Ashkum Farmers Elevator Company, Co-op
Farmers Grain Company of Charlotte
60k North Union
Savoy Grain Company
Cullom Co-op Grain Company
Hannaman Eleavtor
James F. Parker Company
Pierson Grain and Supply Company
Pierson Grain and Supply Company
Thomasboro Farmers Grain
Gibson County Farm Bureau Co-op
Association, Inc.
Bismarck Grain Company
Zelle Grain Company
Address
Pawpaw
Alhambra
Divernon
Hers cher
Tennessee
Morris
Arrowsmith
Chicago 11
Chicago
Kernan
Deer Grove
Toledo
Fisher
Nashville
Tuscola
Alhambra
Ashkum
Chatsworth
Decatur
Savoy
Cullom
Deer Grove
Mahomet
Pierson Station
Pierson Station
Thomasboro
Ft. Branch
Bismarck
Tolono
•
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Dairymen on Wonder-Drug Merry-Go-Round
URBANA — Illinois dairymen who climbed on the wonder-drug
merry-go-round in an effort to prevent and control mastitis have been
hoodwinked, says Dr. G. T. Woods, extension veterinarian of the Univer-
sity of Illinois.
Mastitis is a disease that requires good herd management for
its control. Too many dairymen have neglected good management practices
in favor of "cure- all" antibiotics, says Dr. Woods. However, others
must share the dairyman's responsibility for failure to control mas-
titis.
Some advertising might lead dairymen to believe that all
they need to do to control mastitis is to inject something into the
teat canal of cows giving abnormal milk. But it's not that easy J
Good management, sanitation and prevention of udder injury to
cows are necessary in controlling mastitis. The disease-causing bac-
teria can easily invade bruised teats or udders.
Early diagnosis, Dr. Woods points out, often allows segrega-
tion and treatment to be started before the disease becomes serious.
Milk samples from all the cows should be taken under a veterinarian's
supervision and examined by him in his own or another diagnostic labor-
atory. Records have proved that, this system pays.
Proper treatment of affected animals is important, but it
should not begin until after a veterinarian has made a herd survey and
good sanitation and herd management practices have been started. In-
fected cows are treated with various drugs, but such treatment will not
prevent flareups, especially in poorly managed herds.
-30-
JER:cm
6/12/58
i
■'■•'.
;: ■
. • . ' *
■..'■' r - tOVBi
... ■ ■■■
■ . •■'-•"
-
■
.: .... • • •
• ■ ■ '
■
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nurserymen Plan Short Course
URBANA — Illinois nurserymen are planning their second annual
short course for June 25 and 26 at the Morton Arboretum, Lisle, Illinois,
on state highway 53.
Sponsoring the short course is the Illinois State Nurserymen's
Association in cooperation with the University of Illinois Department
of Horticulture.
Topics featured for discussion include "Summer Propagation
Methods," "Little Known Plant Materials of Interest to Nurserymen," and
a tree moving and planting demonstration. In addition, there will be
a plant identification contest and tours of the arboretum.
Speakers will include Clarence E. Godshalk, director of the
arboretum, and Roy Nordine, E. Lowell Kammerer and Anthony Tyznik, also
from the arboretum.
Although the short course program is planned primarily for
nurserymen, any interested person may attend. Wives and children are
also welcome. For further information write to Harleigh Kemmerer, De-
partment of Horticulture, Urbana, Illinois.
Registration begins at 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 25, and the
program begins at 1:30 p.m.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/12/58
-
s
'-■ I
.
: .
■ ■
■
i
»
:
•
: .
•
-
i
<~» .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This special grain market analysis for the week ending June 13, 1958* is prepared
as a special service "by the University of Illinois grain marketing staff. )
Old Corn Supplies Scarce; Wheat Sales Small; Rains Help Crops
URBANA— Heavy rains this past week should not cause too much fear of re-
duced crops, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain
marketing staff. He points out that, in spite of spotted damage, heavy rainfall
generally adds to crop size. Too much rain has never caused short crops. The
area of very heavy rains was limited.
Wheat harvest expanded from Texas and Oklahoma into Kansas this past week.
Yields were very large and quality was excellent. Surveys in the harvest area in-
dicate that farmers were selling only 10 to 15 percent of the receipts at markets.
However, it is too early to assume that the price has dropped low enough
in relation to loan to cause farmers to stop selling and prevent a further price
decline. Harvest must be quite well along before any real test of farmer selling
is made. Farmers east of the Mississippi sell much more readily than farmers in
the plains wheat territory, Hieronymus points out.
Wheat prices are being held up by the very small free wheat carryover, a
delayed harvest and a vigorous demand for the first harvested wheat by mills and
for export sales. Whether the present price will hold remains to be seen. It is
high in relation to the loan compared with other years.
The non-government corn supply at Chicago is becoming critically short —
now less than one million bushels. At the same time the government is working very
hard to find space to put the big increase in carryover.
Commodity Credit Corporation started selling soybeans this week at the
market rather that the formula price, since the market was 2 to 3 cents higher.
-more-
LflU '
• ' ■ . ' .. . . ' -
■■:,..
• '-
. ... . . ' • .
■ • .
i ■ ■ • • •
■ ■
■
...... .
-2-
All CCC supplies in Illinois will probably be sold, the government carryover being
in Iowa and Minnesota.
In spite of Public Law k80 sales, soybean oil prices continued to decline,
reaching the lowest in several years. Big supplies of competing oils, particularly
peanut oil from Africa, appear to be the reason. Soybean meal prices bounded back
up after a few weeks of moderate decline. Meal production and use is at an all-
time high. We are producing too much oil and not enough meal, but unfortunately
both come from soybeans, Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HDG:dm
6/13/58
• " E ..-...-■
-■■-■'.
■
-
\o*
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE REXEASE
Gives Planting Suggestions for Flooded Areas
URBANA — Illinois farmers with fields where crops were flooded
out by recent rains can still replant and be fairly sure of getting a
crop.
W. 0, Scott, University of Illinois agronomist, says that
northern and central Illinois farmers can plant their usual varieties
of hybrid corn and use it for silage. To get corn for grain, farmers
should plant an early-maturing hybrid, Scott recommends. If planting
should be delayed until after July 1, soybeans are more likely to make
a crop than corn.
In the southern one- fourth of the state, farmers may use the
hybrids they normally grow for grain in central Illinois until the last
of June. They can plant northern Illinois hybrids until early July.
These corn planting recommendations assume that the soil is
fertile, fertilizer is used when the corn is planted, soil moisture
is adequate for normal germination and killing frost, will come at the
normal time or later, Scott, emphasizes.
Late planting of soybeans actually shortens the growing
period. Research at the U. S. Regional Soybean Laboratory at Urbana
shows that a 43-day planting delay for Wabash soybeans delayed maturity
only eight days. This is true because soybeans are very sensitive to
day length. So soybeans adapted to a given area of the state can be
planted quite late in June. After July 1, a switch to an earlier vari-
ety is recommended.
-30-
HDGtcm
.
-
• •. i
.
■
■
.
.
. -
■-■'...
....
' - •. - ' ■
• ' • ■ ■ •
i
• t
[
■
.
....■•
■
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Progress Report of Ul Beef Cattle Research
URBANA — University of Illinois beef cattle researchers are
currently seeking answers to four questions:
Will cattle on legume-grass pasture outgain cattle fed
legume-grass silage in drylot?
What ration produces best gains on drylot- and pasture- fed
cattle?
Will steers implanted with synovex make faster gains than
non-hormone-treated steers?
Will "all-in-one" silages produce satisfactory gains eco-
nomically?
A research experiment to answer the first two questions began
April 29. It will continue until August 19, a total of 112 days. Six
groups of cattle, three on pasture and three in drylot, are involved in
this study.
The first pasture group receives ground ear corn only. The
second receives corn for 56 days and then corn plus soybean meal the
last 56 days. The third group is fed both corn and soybean meal for
the entire 112 days. The three groups of cattle in drylot are receiv-
ing the same rations. The only difference is that they also receive
silage.
A. L. Neumann, head of the UI beef division, reports that so
far cattle on pasture have gained more than cattle in drylot. But
whether they will continue to gain more is anyone's guess. Preliminary
-more-
• •_ , -.■-,. .. ...
9
- " ■ i
■•■....•. ■ ■ ' ; [
: , • - • •
' ' '.
\ ....... ■ ■ . ' , ■ ■
. .•: . •
:. .•• ; .■ . •
' t i . ■
...
. . : .• !
j . - .. ;.,
Add Beef Research - 2
results also indicate that cattle receiving corn plus soybean meal, in
both drylot and pasture, are making the fastest gains. And all cattle
receiving corn plus soybean meal have gained at least a quarter pound
more per day than cattle fed corn only.
Neumann points out that cost differences between cattle fed
on pastures and cattle fed in drylot cannot be determined until this
experiment is completed.
Neumann and his associates are also checking the effects of
implanting steers with synovex. Synovex is a combination hormone that
speeds gains when implanted in steers. And in some cases it has caused
fewer side-effects than stilbestrol. Although results are not final,
steers implanted with this hormone are making faster gains than non-
implanted steers.
All-in-one silages are particularly adapted to automatic
feeding. This is why the UI researchers are anxious to see if they
economically produce satisfactory gains.
These silages are prepared by adding 40 percent of grain to
the fresh forage during ensiling. This eliminates the time-consuming
chore of feeding cattle silage and grain separately.
Oats, corn and alfalfa are the three silages fed. Each
silage contains 40 percent corn and 60 percent roughage.
Neumann says that thus far cattle fed the alfalfa all-in-one
silage are gaining as quickly as a control group fed a standard fatten-
ing ration. However, cattle receiving the oat and corn silages are
not gaining so rapidly. The standard fattening ration consists of corn
silage, shelled corn, soybean meal and alfalfa hay.
-more-
.
•
■
■
■
!
.
.
,
' ■
■
'
.
'
.
.
■
•
•
■
Add Beef Research - 3
Steers on this experiment are also receiving either synovex
or stilbestrol. And again steers implanted with either of these hormones
are making faster gains than non- implanted steers.
Neumann also reports that they are continuing a bloat study
this year. They are testing lecithin and crude soybean oil for their
effectiveness in controlling bloat. No results of this study are yet
available.
Complete results of all these experiments will be reported
at the annual Cattle Feeders' Day November 7 at Urbana.
-30-
PAC : cm
6/16/58
■
,
.
'
•
Note to Editor: This is the first of two garden columns concerning insects found
in vegetable gardens.
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Vegetable Gardens Host Many Insects
Prepared by
University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey Entomologists
URBANA — Vegetable gardens not only supply you with fresh produce during
the summer; they also serve as a cafeteria for many insects.
Corn earworms, squash bugs, asparagus beetles, vegetable thrips, cucumber
beetles, cabbage worms and leaf hoppers are only a few of the insects that may in-
vade your garden this summer. And unless they are controlled, you may discover one
morning that your gardening has been in vain.
Corn Earworm
The corn earworm is probably the worst insect pest of corn. In fact, it's
difficult to raise sweet corn without applying earworm control measures. Favorite
feeding areas of this pest include the whorl, the developing tassel and the ear.
The color of corn earworm larvae varies greatly, ranging from light green
or pink to dark brown or nearly black. Alternating light and dark stripes run the
entire length of the body. These stripes are not always the same on all larvae. But
a double dark line usually runs the entire body length on the top side of each
larva.
Control of this pest is sometimes difficult. However, when the silks be-
gin emerging, spray them with DDT every three or feur days until silking is completed.
Use one tablespoon of 25 percent DDT emulsifiable concentrate per gallon of water.
Squash Bugs
Squash bugs suck sap from leaves of squash, pumpkin and related crops.
Winter squash varieties, such as Hubbard, are most severely damaged by this pest.
-more-
•■ ■
.
.
'
.
■
-2-
The adult bugs are dingy brownish -black insects about 5/8 inch long.
Newly hatched bugs have reddish heads and legs and green bodies. Later the young
become darker, the heads and legs turn black and the body turns a light to dark
gray. Both adults and young bugs produce a disagreeable odor when crushed.
Full-grown squash bugs are difficult to kill. Therefore apply insecticides
to control the young bugs, which are usually found in clusters feeding on leaves,
stems and fruits. Dust plants thoroughly with a 1 1/2 percent dieldrin dust or
10 percent sabadilla dust. Do not apply dieldrin after the plants begin blooming.
Asparagus Beetles
Injury from these beetles may occur any time during the growing season.
During the cutting season, they damage crops by feeding on the growing tips. Spears
below the soil surface are often damaged by adult beetles during cool spring weather.
Damage by adults continues after the cutting season and is often severe on the fern
growth of seed beds and new plantings.
The asparagus beetle is metallic blue to black and has an orange to
yellow capital E on each wing cover. It is about l/*f inch long. The larvae are
sluggish, humpbacked, slate colored and about 1/3 inch long when full grown.
The spotted asparagus beetle is reddish orange with 12 distinct black
spots on the wing covers. Larvae are ©range to yellow and about 1/3 inch long.
To control these beetles, apply rotenone to asparagus during the cutting
season. After this season, use DDT dusts or sprays.
' -30-
PAC:cm
6/16/58
. ■
■ ■ ■
■
s . '
; ...
■ .: .
si **£
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Purebred Sheep Sale at Urbana July 19
URBANA — The annual summer Illinois Purebred sheep Breeders'
Association show and sale will be held in. the Stock Pavilion at Urbana
on Saturday, July 19.
The show will start at 9:30 a.m. DST and the sale at lr 00 p.m.
DST, reports U. S. Garrigus, head of the sheep division at the Univer-
sity of Illinois College of Agriculture.
The catalog lists 94 head of Cheviot, Corriedale, Hampshire,
Rambouillet, Shropshire, Southdown and Suffolk rams and ewes. Judges
are Don Pullin and Ernie Rotter, from Iowa. Vance J. Van Tassell,
Champaign, a University of Illinois animal science graduate, will be the
auctioneer.
Some of the Middle West's top-ranking veteran sheep breeders
will compete with newcomers for recognition and top honors in the exhi-
bition and sale.
Lunch will be served at noon in the Stock Pavilion.
-30-
HDN: cm
6/18/58
• .
•
■
'.
■ •
. .
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Illinois Farm Land Values Increasing More Than Buildings
URBANA — Illinois farm land values have increased more than
farm building values.
In the past 28 years Illinois farm land values have increased
248 percent, or nearly twice the 128 percent increase in farm building
values, according to C, L. Stewart, University of Illinois land econo-
mist.
Even so, some parts of Illinois saw decreases in both farm
land and building values per acre last year, and the state average
showed little gain. Stewart attributes the sectional relapse and
small state-wide gain to last year's bad weather.
In the midwest, Illinois ranks low in farm building value.
On March 1, Illinois * farm building value of $46 per acre
surpassed that of many western and southern states. But the averages
of most states located farther north and east were higher, and no
state east of the Mississippi River had a lower ratio of buildings to
total farm value.
Farm building values in the New England and North Atlantic
groups averaged 30 percent higher than the $7,900 figure given for Il-
linois. In Ohio the per farm average was 20 percent higher than in Il-
linois, and in Indiana about 12 percent higher.
Stewart credits the smaller increase in Illinois farm building
values to recent enlargement of farms, which has cut not only building
costs, but machinery, other equipment and farm labor as well.
-more-
■
. •• I ;.- •
■ -
" ' ' ' ' - .
■: . - .
. •■•; •■ .
as n ■ ■ •
•- ■
: ' : . . , ■
. . .
•
•
■ ■ •
Add Farm Land and Building values - 2
Illinois was also found to be low in number of farms per
1,000 sold in 1957-1958. Only 39 Illinois farms in 1,000 were sold
during this period compared with 68 in the Pacific states, 54 in the
Rocky Mountain states and 43 to 58 in sister states in the corn belt.
Fewer than one farm in 1,000 in Illinois was reported to have
been sold for taxes compared with 1.7 in the entire corn belt, 2.5 in
the lake states, 2.9 in the northeast and 3.7 in the Rocky Mountain
and Southern Plains states.
-30-
HDNrcm
6/18/58
'
.
"■ • . •
■ . ■
I - •
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Salt Requirements for Baby Pigs Investigated
URBANA — Before a balanced ration for suckling pigs can be
developed, their salt requirements must be determined, according to
John W. Yusken and Elwood F. Reber, University of Illinois College of
Veterinary Medicine research workers. These findings may also be useful
in combating baby pig losses.
These workers have been conducting a project to determine the
requirements of baby pigs for salt (sodium chloride) . No similar tests
had been made on pigs at this stage.
Yusken and Reber's investigation involved pigs ranging in
age from 19 to 34 days. They found that the pigs fed 0.45 percent salt
in their rations retained the highest, percentage of sodium. The recom-
mended salt requirement for weaned pigs is 0.5 percent.
Pigs were fed a synthetic ration containing all the known
growth factors and minerals. All pigs were placed in individual
metabolism cages designed for quantitative collection of urine and
feces. The data were used to calculate sodium balances for a 24-hour
period. Positive balances were obtained for dietary concentrations of
sodium varying from 0.45 percent to 2.34 percent. Sodium retention was
quite variable even among littermates, point out the research workers.
-30-
JERrcm
6/19/58
.
■
■ ••■'-
...
.
•
• '
.
.
■
'. .
.
' . • ■
■
• '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-H Members to Compete in Judging Contest July 1
URBANA — Nearly 800 Illinois 4-H Club members will compete in
four divisions of the State 4-H Judging Contest on July 1 at the Uni-
versity of Illinois, Urbana. O. F. Gaebe, in charge of agricultural
4-H Club work, says that each county may enter a maximum of six con-
testants in each of the four divisions.
Counties may send contestants to judge dairy, poultry, vege-
tables or livestock, including beef cattle, hogs and sheep.
t judging will be closely supervised, and scores will be kept
for all individuals plus the team score of the three highest contest-
ants from each county. These scores will be sent to farm advisers in
participating counties as soon as possible.
The highest ranking individuals in the state contest will
return for further competition. Winners in this competition will
represent Illinois in national contests to be held later this year.
Dairy winners will judge at the National 4-H Dairy Judging Contest in
Waterloo, Iowa, and also at the International Dairy Show in Chicago.
Livestock winners will compete again at the International in
Chicago and the Invitational Contest in Kansas City. National poultry
winners will compete at the Invitational Contest in Chicago, and vege-
table winners will attend the Invitational Contest in Biloxi, Missis-
sippi.
Awards in the state contest include ribbons for Class A and
B individuals and judging teams. These awards will be presented by
farm advisers in the home counties of the contestants.
(Note to Editor: Names of local contestants may be obtained from your
county farm adviser.)
-30-
PBJ:Cm
6/19/58
-
.
: -
'
.
■
,
■ /
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-H Members Live and Learn in Other States
URBANA — 4-H exchange visits are both interesting and educa-
tional for 4-H members, says 0. F. Gaebe, in charge of agricultural 4-H
Club work in Illinois.
One Illinois county using the exchange idea is Whiteside.
About 30 4-H'ers from Morgan County, Colorado, will spend six days this
week in Whiteside county. They arrived last Friday, June 20.
Last year 34 Whiteside county 4-H members spent five days in
the Colorado county.
While in Illinois, the Colorado 4-H'ers will be treated to a
chicken barbecue at White Eagle 4-H Camp and a major league ball game
in Chicago, other activities planned by the county 4-H federation in-
clude the regular federation meeting and the county Share-the-Fun Con-
test.
-30-
PBJrcam
6/19/58
'
. .
•
■'
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Extension Council Chairmen Meet at U. of I,
URBANA — Nearly 200 of the state's top agricultural and home
economics leaders will meet on the university of Illinois campus next
Thursday and Friday to review current problems and opportunities as
they affect the work of the Agricultural Extension Service,
These leaders are chairmen of their respective county agri-
cultural and home economics extension councils. They will be accompa-
nied by the county extension farm advisers and home advisers.
Purpose of the conference, according to W. G. Kammlade, is
to give the extension council chairmen an opportunity to become better
acquainted with the College of Agriculture and its various programs of
work. At the same time we will be able to discuss mutual problems re-
lating to our state-wide extension program in agriculture and home
economics. Kammlade is associate director of the Agricultural Extension
Service,
Since July 1, 1956, agricultural and home economics extension
councils have served as advisory and program development groups for the
Extension Service in each county of the state. Council members are
named by Dean and Director Louis B. Howard. They serve without compen-
sation.
The conference starts Thursday evening with a dinner meeting
in the Men's Residence Hall. Highlight of the evening will be a dis-
cussion of the changing pattern of opportunities for young people . Par-
ticipating in the discussion will be H. W, Hannah, associate dean of the
-more-
.
■
' • :
.,
'
. i
-
i
■
.
•
Add Extension Council Chairmen - 2
College; Miss Lulu Black, state leader of home advisers; and Franklin
Reiss, farm management specialist.
A tour of the University, including the College of Agriculture
and the experiment farms, is scheduled for Friday morning,
university President David D. Henry will meet with the group
Friday afternoon and speak on "Challenges and opportunities for the Uni-
versity of Illinois and the Cooperative Extension Service."
Other speakers include Gerald H. Huffman, assistant adminis-
trator of the Federal Extension Service; Herbert 0. Farber, University
vice-president; Harvey Schweitzer, Jr., chairman of the DeKalb County
Agricultural Extension Council; and Mrs. Frank Huguet, chairman of the
Champaign County Home Economics Extension Council.
-30-
HR: cm
6/19/58
- •
■
fc 1
. . . - ■ .
■ . r
.
.
• "■'■-' •
■ . ' -
FOR IMMEDIATE BELEASE
(This special grain market analysis for the week ending June 20, 1958 is prepared
as a special service "by the University of Illinois grain marketing staff. )
Corn Demand Slackens; Wheat Harvest Delayed
URBANA — The tight cash corn situation of the past three months seems to be
easing, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the University of Illinois grain marketing
staff. Corn, soybean and wheat prices declined and oats moved up this past week.
Farm marketings did not increase appreciably, but demand seems to be falling away,
Hieronymus reported. Truck demand was largely lacking. Sales out of Chicago were
quite small as stocks remained very tight. But it appeared that sales would have
been hard to make if supplies had been available. For some time CCC offers of out-
of -condition corn at bin sites have been picked up quickly. This past week bids
were hard to obtain.
Many farmers are holding corn that is not under the high loan rate. Some
is under the $1.10 loan, and some is without protection. Either production and
disappearance figures are wrong or non- government corn supplies are going to be-
come quite abundant before the summer is over, Hieronymus emphasizes. Production
minus the estimated use would indicate an increased carryover of 200 million bushels
on October 1.
CCC corn sales will run about as large as the amount taken over under the
high loan program. Very little will be taken over under the low loan program unless
corn prices decline from current levels. Yet, unless trouble develops in the new
corn crop, it is difficult to see why all of the increase in carryover should re-
main out of government stocks.
The corn picture at Chicago continues to tighten. Nearly 20 million
bushels of unsatisfied contracts are calling for July delivery. Only a little over
1 million bushels are available for delivery. This is why July corn futures have in-
creased in relation to downstate Illinois prices.
-more-
I
' •• . J ■ '•-..'
9
...
, •• .
.... . .
. -
J
-
■
■ ■ ■
■
-2-
Wheat harvest has been delayed by rain. Areas that usually furnish wheat
to Chicago are especially wet. Light selling "by farmers at less than loan continues.
The current wheat prices will not he fully tested until the huge harvest east of
the Mississippi River gets under way. Prices are likely to remain in a fairly
narrow range until this test is made. The danger of wet wheat at harvest has begun
to loom up. But the rains may stop in time.
CCC soybean sales have kept the market liberally supplied at current prices.
It now looks as if CCC will carry over about 20 million bushels, Hieronymus concludes.
-30-
HBGrcm
6/20/58
.
■
■
1
• - -'
-
to* **£
Farm News
DIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Veterinarians Will Have Part in Satellite Program
URBANA — "We are not yet ready to embark on the veterinary
medical aspect of the satellite program, but there is no question but
that veterinarians will eventually enter the space study field, " says
Dr. N. D. Levine, professor of parasitology in the University of Illi-
nois College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Levine recently returned from a symposium on "Possible
Uses of Earth Satellites for Life Sciences Experiments" in Washington,
D. C. Co- sponsors of the symposium were the American Institute of
Biological Sciences, National Academy of Sciences and the National
Science Foundation.
"Veterinarians will form part of the team of biologists who
will be studying the physiology and pathology of astronautics," says
Dr. Levine.
Besides the small size of the satellites, there are other
limiting factors to sending life into outer space, Dr. Levine points
out. Scientists have found much more radiation in outer space than was
expected. To protect man from the irradiation which he would encounter
-more-
■
.
'
•
i
-.
' !
.-.'..,
.
'
'
.
:•■
•
■■
Add Veterinarians Will Have Part in Satellite Program - 2
in outer space would probably require at least 100 pounds of lead.
Spin and tumble are other limiting factors. Centrifugal
force created by the spin of our satellites would kill an animal. If
the satellite tumbled much, it could shake the liver cells apart and
cause death of the animal.
Experiments are now being conducted on the ground under simu-
lated space conditions, and these are of great value, Dr. Levine adds.
-30-
jER:cam
6/23/58
FPP
'
•
FOR IMMEDATE RELEASE
House flies Wage Continuous Battle Against Insecticides
URBANA — House flies, one of the most annoying insects Mother
Nature ever produced, wage a continuous battle against insecticides.
No sooner does a chemical seem effective against flies than they de-
velop an immunity to its killing powers.
But house flies never develop an immunity to sanitation,
points out H. B. Petty, entomologist with the University of Illinois
and Illinois Natural History Survey. Sanitation is therefore the basic
step to successful control of house flies.
Petty explains that house flies lay their eggs in moist,
decaying organic material. Soon tiny maggots hatch and feed on the
bacteria and yeasts in the fermenting material. The maggots gradually
pass through several more stages. XTithin 6 to 20 days the cycle is
complete and the adult fly emerges.
Unless flies are controlled, up to 20 generations a year can
occur in Illinois. Eliminating them is important not only because they
are a nuisance, but also because they spread such diseases as typhoid
fever and dysentery.
Here are eight steps suggested by Petty to eliminate house
flies from homes or farms:
1. Dispose of moist, decaying material like rotting straw,
manure and garbage. Also, clean fly-breeding areas twice a week. This
includes calf pens, bull pens, feeding platforms and garbage pails.
Use chemicals only after the areas have been thoroughly cleaned.
-more-
■ •
■
■
LUC
I
■
!
Add house flies - 2
2. Screen windows and doors in buildings. Electric grids
on house and barn doors may give some help. As a general rule, traps
are not very effective.
3. Control maggots in their breeding areas. Borax dusts or
granules are excellent for use around garbage pails. However, treating
manure frequently with borax may increase the boron content of soil
on which the manure is spread. Excessive amounts of this mineral are
toxic to plants. Another material, thiourea, is an effective larvicide
that is safe to use in most situations.
4. Spray all livestock shelters and areas around the home.
Recommended sprays include diazinon, korlan and malathion. The latter
two are relatively safe, while diazinon is more toxic and should be
handled with greater care. Apply these sprays liberally to ceiling and
walls, doors and windows of livestock buildings and around porches,
doors and windows of houses.
Cover all feeding and watering troughs before spraying. All
three materials are approved for use in dairy barns. But remove milk
cows before spraying.
Mix spray materials as follows:
Amount of insecticide to 50 gallons of water
plus 10 to 20 pounds of sugar
Diazinon
25?^ emulsifiable concentrate 1 to 2 gallons
25% wettable powder 8 to 16 pounds
Korlan
12% emulsifiable concentrate 4 gallons
24% emulsifiable concentrate 2 gallons
25% wettable powder 16 gallons
Malathion
57% emulsifiable concentrate 1 gallon
25% wettable powder 20 pounds
-more-
•
3
■ 1
:
j
.
■
■ ■
.
.
■
"•
•
-
•
'
.
Add house flies - 3
5. Use baits to supplement sanitation and residual sprays.
Commercially prepared baits containing raalathion, diazinon, korlan and
Dipterex are effective. Use only as directed.
S. Apply space sprays containing pyrethrin or a thiocyanate
to control flies inside the house and those on cattle at milking time.
APPly them with a hand sprayer, fog machine or other suitable device
for quick action.
Animals treated with a repellent material, such as tabutrex
or R-326, will remain free of flies not only at milking time, but also
while grazing. Both materials are approved for spraying dairy cattle.
7. Use fly repellents around building doors and windows to
keep flies out. It. is not likely that the flies will develop resistanc
to these repellents.
8. Read carefully all labels on the container, and be sure
to follow recommended precautions.
-30-
PAC r cam
6/23/58
FPP
.
• ■
•
REPORT FROM DIXON SPRINGS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Irrigation Boosts Southern Illinois Corn. Yields
DIXON SPRINGS — Rain comes at the right, time and in the right
amounts for top corn yields in southern Illinois in only one out of
every four to six years, reports L. E. Gard, crops research worker at
the University of Illinois Dixon Springs Experiment station.
Just as the use of adapted seed, recommended fertility treat-
ment or good cultural practices increase corn yields, so do water supply
and distribution also affect yields. When nature does not supply enough
rainfall during the growing season, irrigation can be used to raise corn
yields, Gard points out.
Over the past 20 years, rainfall at Dixon Springs has averaged
14.17 inches during the corn-growing season from May 15 to September 12.
The ten wettest years averaged 18.27 inches, and the ten driest years
averaged only 10.07 inches.
Claypan soils in the southern third of the state will release
only 2h to 4% inches of water before yield reductions start. So even
in five of the ten wet years, the combined total of rainfall and stored
water fell two to four inches short of the 18 to 21 inches required to
produce 100-bushel yields.
This deficiency was felt in late July and August. In all of
the dry years the total fell four to nine inches below the amount needed
for 100-bushel yields.
-more-
■
■
'
Irrigation Boosts Yields - 2
Last season, a typical wet. year, 18,67 inches of rain fell
at Dixon Springs during the corn-growing season, and yet corn yields
increased up to 20 bushels with the application of four inches of ad-
ditional water.
Other yield increases on irrigated plots at the Dixon Springs
Station during the past three years ranged from .1 bushel on medium-
fertile soils to 38 bushels on a highly fertile soil. Some of the most
economical gains, from 20 to 31 bushels, were realized by adding only
four inches of water — two inches at early tassel stage and two more
inches ten days later,
-30-
PBJtcam
6/23/58
FPP
•
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
4-H Key Club to Hold State-Wide Meeting
URBANA — The third annual meeting of the Illinois 4-H Key Club
will be held at 4-H Memorial Camp, near Monticello » on June 28. o. F.
Gaebe, in charge of agricultural 4-H Club worlc at the University of
Illinois, estimates that some 350 Illinois 4-H Key Club members will
attend. Phyllis Floyd and Jack Goodrich, co-chairmen, are in charge
of the program.
The Key Club is a group of 4-H members who have outstanding
achievement records. Organized in 1954, the group is now growing so
fast that county and subdistrict meetings must soon replace the present
state-wide gathering. Besides reorganization, the business meeting
will feature the installation of four honorary Key Club members.
other activities planned for the all-state meeting include
tours, boating, swimming and sports. Key Club members may also use
the camping facilities available to remain overnight at Memorial Camp.
-30-
PBJrcam
6/23/58
■•
Note to Editors: This the second of two garden columns concerning insects found
in vegetable gardens.
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
Vegetable Garden Insects
Prepared by
University of Illinois and Illinois Natural History Survey Entomologists
URBANA- -Vegetable gardens attract many insects. Some insects chew only
the leaves, some feed on fruits and still others attack the roots. All together,
they can ruin a garden in a mighty short time.
Here are descriptions of several vegetable garden insects and instructions
for their control:
Striped and Spotted Cucumber Beetles
Cucumber beetles are chewing insects. They attack such crops as cucumber,
melon, squash and pumpkin. The spotted beetle also feeds on asparagus, corn and egg-
plant. Both beetles are particularly destructive to new seedlings just pushing
through the soil surface. But later in the season the adults feed on leaves, blos-
soms and fruits. The larvae destroy underground parts of plants, feeding on roots
and stems below the soil surface.
The adult striped cucumber beetle is about 1/5 inch long and has a black
head, yellow thorax and wings striped with yellow and black. The slender larvae,
or grubs, are white with brown heads and are about 3/8 inch long when full grown.
Because they feed on underground roots and stems, they are seldom noticed.
The spotted cucumber beetle is about 1/5 inch long and has a black head
and black legs. It has a yellowish-green body and 12 distinct black spots on its
wing covers. Larvae are about l/h inch long.
To control this pest, use dusts containing 3 to 5 percent methoxychlor
or 1 percent rotenone, or standard garden spray preparations containing methoxychlor.
-more-
.
.
■
•
!
L
■
■
■
■
1
3
J
■
.
.
.
■
■
-2-
Repeat as often as necessary. Do not use DDT or spray mixtures containing DDT on
vine or melon crops.
Cabbage Worms
Cabbage worms attack cabbage and related crops in all stages of growth.
If allowed to become numerous, they can completely defoliate plants. They eat their
way into cabbage heads and, once inside, they cannot be reached by ordinary applica-
tions of insecticides. The worms usually ruin the appearance of cabbage.
The imported cabbage worm is a sluggish velvety-green worm about 1 1/4
inches long when full grown. The cabbage looper is a green worm with stripes along
its back and sides. The full grown looper is about 1 1/2 inches long, has a dis-
tinctly tapered body and travels in a looping motion. The worm stage of the diamond-
back moth is the smallest and least conspicuous of the cabbage worms . It is green,
very active and about 1/3 inch long when full grown.
Preparations of malathion or rotenone, obtained from local seed dealers,
will control cabbage worms in home gardens.
Aphids
Many kinds of aphids attack vegetable crops. Examples include the bean
pea and melon aphids.
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects found singly in stems or on the
undersides of leaves. Cabbage aphids are green to gray or powdery blue. Potato
aphids vary from pink to green. Melon aphids are green to black, pea aphids are
green with black markings on their appendages and bean aphids are almost black. Their
size varies; the largest is about 1/6 inch long, and the smallest is barely visible.
Aphids attack leaves, stems, blossoms, pods and other parts of host plants.
They cause damage by sucking plant juices through their tiny beaks. Heavily infested
plants become stunted and do not produce normal crops. Migrating aphids also trans-
mit several important plant diseases.
-more-
•
'
'■
-
■
-3-
Recommended control includes use of preparations containing rotenone,
nicotine sulfate or malathion. Local seed dealers or hardware stores carry these
chemicals .
Potato Insects
Home gardeners will profit by controlling the tiny green, wedge-shaped
leaf hopper. In fact, control of this insect can increase potato yields 25 to 50
percent.
Leaf hoppers feed on the undersides of potato leaves. Not only do they
suck the sap, but they also inject a toxic substance into plants. This substance
causes the leaves to burn at the tips and eventually die. Consequently, plants die
before growth is completed.
Leaf hoppers are found in Illinois now and are feeding on potato plants.
To control them, apply DET dusts or sprays Immediately. For successful control, two
or three applications at weekly intervals should follow the immediate treatment.
I -30-
PAC:cam
6/23/58
FPP
•
■
'
From Extension Editorial Office
College of Agriculture
University of Illinois
Urbana, Illinois
July 1
July 2
July 7
July 8
July 8
July 9
July 10
July 10
July 12
July lU
July 16
July 19
July 21-26
July 21-29
July 25
July 26
July 26
July 30-
August 2
July 28-
August 1
July 28
July 29-30
AGRICULTURAL EVENTS CALENDAR FOR ILLINOIS
State k-K Judging Contests. Registration at Stock Pavilion, University
of Illinois, Urbana.
Forrest Swine Testing Station Field Day, Forrest.
Ford County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Melvin.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Dixon, Lee County, 1:30 p.m.
McLean County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Bloomington.
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, Mt. Morris, Ogle County.
Dixon Springs Purebred Ram Sale, Dixon Springs Experiment Station,
Robbs .
Agronomy Experiment Station Field Day, DeKalb, DeKalb County.
Western Illinois Swine Testing Station Field Day, Macomb.
Logan County Swine Testing Station Field Day, San Jose.
Orchard Day, Nauvoo, Illinois. Gem City Vineland Company, 9 '.30 a.m. CST
Illinois Purebred Sheep Breeders Association Ram Sale, University of
Illinois, Urbana.
State k-B. Leadership Conference, U-H Memorial Camp, Monticello.
Special International Farm Youth Exchangees Workshop, University of
Illinois, Urbana.
Clark County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Martinsville.
Whiteside County Swine Testing Station Field Day, Sterling.
Sale of Tested Boars, Iroquois County Swine Testing Station.
General International Farm Youth Exchange Midpoint Meeting, University
of Illinois, Urbana.
State k-E Wildlife Conservation Camp, Memorial Camp, Monticello.
All-Industry Poultry Day, University of Illinois, Urbana. New Law
Building Auditorium, 9 a.m.
Flock Selectors' School, University of Illinois, Urbana. 135 Animal
Sciences Laboratory.
-more-
Ag Events Calendar — 2
August 1 Pullorum Testers1 School, University of Illinois, Urbana. Veterinary
Medicine Building, 9 a.m.
August 10-16 Illinois Farm Boys Forestry Camp. Southern Illinois District 4-H
Camp, Lake West Frankfort.
August 8-17 Illinois State Fair, Springfield.
August 25 Sale of Tested Boars, Forrest Swine Testing Station, Forrest.
August 28 Sale of Tested Boars, Western Illinois Swine Testing Station, Macomb.
-30-
PAC:dm
6/01/58
FPP
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE • EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Two Illinois iFYEs Leave for Europe
URBANA — Two Illinois young people left the United States on
June 17 bound for Norway and Austria, where they will live and work as
International Farm Youth Exchange delegates.
Sailing on the S.S. AROSA STAR from Montreal, Canada, were
Robert Lewis Cook, R. 1, Box 873, West Chicago, going to Norway, and
Marilyn Ann Nickel, R. 4, Elgin, going to Austria. They will return
to the United states in mid-November.
They are among 63 young people going to 25 countries this
month. Exchanges with nearly 50 countries will be carried out during
this 10th anniversary year of the IFYE program.
IFYE began in 1948 when 17 young people went to seven European
countries and six young people from two countries came here. During
the first 10 years, a total of 894 U. S. young people went abroad,
while 1,032 from abroad came here. More than 8,000 U. S. farm families
have served as hosts to these young ambassadors from abroad.
The exchange is financed by contributions from 4-H Clubs,
rural and civic groups, industries, individuals and others interested in
world understanding* No federal or state government funds are used.
-30-
RAJrcm
6/26/58
••'■>
■■■
• . - •..
I
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Use Land Leveler to Improve Field Drainage
URBANA — Low, wet spots for the first time in several years
have caused crop damage in some Illinois fields during this rainy June*
Farmers with such wet spots in their fields may need to con-
sider surface drainage to supplement their tile, says Ralph C. Hay,
agricultural engineer at the University of Illinois College of Agricul-
ture.
Most tile lines are engineered to handle a maximum rainfall
of less than one-half inch in 24 hours, Hay points out. When more than
that amount falls on soil that is already saturated, the tile lines
cannot handle the excess water. The result is drowned-out crops in
the natural depressions.
Land levelers can be used to improve the surface drainage
on many of these fields. Hay says. These levelers or land planes are
tillage- and earth-moving machines brought into Illinois from the
western irrigation areas in the past 10 to 12 years.
First step in planning a surface drainage system is to have
a careful topographic survey made. From that survey, outlet and col-
lection ditches can be built to carry off excess water. Only after
such a planned framework of drainage outlets is built can the job be
completed with a land leveler.
The process of land leveling, also known as land smoothing,
planing or forming, consists of grading the soil's surface to cut down
or eliminate high spots and fill depressions, the agricultural engineer
-more-
;
■ . :
'
■
'
I
■
•
Add Land Leveling - 2
says. The result is a uniform slope from which water will drain
gradually without, causing erosion or standing in ponds.
This job need not be done at one time, but should be re-
peated for several years, when the seedbed is prepared to get a smooth
land surface. Thus leveling becomes a regular tillage operation as
well as a system to improve the drainage.
Levelers are good machines for preparing a smooth seedbed
for both corn and soybeans. But Illinois farmers who buy them for this
purpose are not getting full value from these machines unless they also
use them to improve their drainage, Hay says.
Farmers who do not wish to buy such a machine can probably
find one for hire through a custom operator working with the local soil
conservation district.
-30-
RAJ:cm
6/26/58
FPP
'
■ . i
■
■
'
■
r. .
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
AEC Grants $5,521 for Radioisotope Training
URBANA — Atomic Energy Commission authorities have granted
$5,521 to the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine
for radioisotope training.
Dr. C. A. Brandly, dean of the College, said the funds would
be used to buy equipment and materials for the educational and train-
ing program. This training program will emphasize the uses and hazards
of nuclear energy in veterinary medicine and encourage interest and
further training in this field, especially at the graduate level.
The equipment grant will help to show veterinary medical stu-
dents the newer uses of isotopes for diagnoses and therapy, with
attention to radiation safety. The latter aspect will be continued in
the teaching in a radiology course, where the National Committee on
Radiation Protection has indicated such emphasis is needed, Dean Brandly
says.
An additional important objective is to stimulate the inter-
est of outstanding students in graduate work and research in radio-
biology following completion of the professional degree of doctor of
veterinary medicine.
As educational interest is developed and as staff capabili-
ties are strengthened, the college intends to expand this phase of
its program.
A course in radiobiology has been outlined by the College. It
will consist of 30 lectures and 15 laboratory periods. The course is
to be taught to 50 students in the fourth year of the professional cur-
riculum leading to the D.V.M. degree.
-30-
JER : cm
6/26/58
FPP
'
.
I
•
.
.
.
'
.
1
-
.
I
•
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Test High-Analysis Fertilizers in Southern Illinois
URBANA — High-analysis fertilizers gave good results on a
majority of the 26 southern Illinois claypan area test demonstration
farms last year.
Calcium metaphosphate (0-62-0) , diammonium phosphate (20-52-0)
and ammonium nitrate (33 1/2-0-0) were used by these test demonstrators
in amounts recommended by the Extension Service, reports Fay M. Sims,
University of Illinois farm management specialist and assistant super-
visor of the test demonstration program.
Good effects on row crops and small grains were reported by
three- fourths or more of the demonstrators. Nearly the same number
rated all three fertilizers excellent in comparison with other avail-
able fertilizers.
Sims notes that a majority of demonstrators felt that the
high analysis of 0-62-0 and 20-52-0 was the best feature of these
fertilizers, opinions of the best feature of 33 1/2-0-0 were divided
between its high analysis and good response.
Few complaints were recorded against any of the fertilizers,
but four demonstrators said that 33 1/2-0-0 absorbed moisture. One
demonstrator attributed this to the open valves of the fertilizer bags
and asked whether they could be sealed after opening to keep out mois-
ture.
The fertilizers were used in quantities up to or exceeding
200 pounds an acre. Most demonstrators used 100 pounds or less on corn
and between 100 and 200 pounds on small grains.
-more-
■
•
■■■
.
.
.
'
•
■
0
.■
•
Add High-Analysis Fertilizers - 2
Most of the demonstrators felt that the fertilizers spread
satisfactorily and had no harmful effects on spreading equipment.
Nearly all demonstrators said that they would use the fer-
tilizers again in 1958.
The fertilizer tests are one phase of a cooperative effort
by the demonstrators and specialists from all departments of the Uni-
versity of Illinois College of Agriculture.
Improved farming practices are followed in an effort to build
and maintain efficient practices in all phases of farming^ from home
improvement to more productive livestock and crop management.
-30-
HDG:Cm
6/26/58
FPP
•
'
-
. .
3
•
Z>
. • -
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(This grain market analysis for the week ending June 27 > 1958, is prepared as a
special service by the University of Illinois grain marketing staff)
Large Corn Sales in Prospect; Wheat Harvest Delayed "by Rain
URBANA— Present figures indicate that large amounts of corn remain on
farms to move before the 195^ harvest, according to T. A. Hieronymus of the Univer-
sity of Illinois grain marketing staff. However, new figures will be available in
late July. This past week only a limited amount of corn moved out of the country.
Non-government supplies for delivery on July futures were very small. The important
question is how much corn is still on farms and not under the high loan program. At
current prices, Iowa farmers are beginning to sell.
New crop corn moved up 1 cent a bushel and is now over $1 a bushel. Ex-
cessive moisture caused this strength, as it did some damage and prevented farmers
from cultivating their corn. However, the wet weather problem is largely limited to
central Illinois and northern Indiana, Hieronymus points out. General crop condi-
tions are very favorable in the Corn Belt.
Rains delayed wheat harvest in Kansas, Missouri and Illinois this past
week. They did some damage, but not enough to significantly affect crop size. More
wheat will be produced than can be used.
Texas and Oklahoma have nearly finished harvesting wheat, but Illinois
and Kansas are just starting. Sales have been small so far, indicating that farmers
are putting wheat into loan rather than taking current prices. The only major
factor determining whether wheat prices will hold or go down is the price at which
farmers will put wheat into loan rather than sell it.
In previous big crop wheat years, farmers have sold at lower prices in re-
lation to the loan than current quotations. Large amounts of non-compliance wheat
are not eligible for the loan. If the weather does not dry up, there could be wet
wheat.
-more-
- ■ ■: r ■
' ' '■ ■■ ■ :.'■' : . X,!
:." ' • • • ■ . • •:• I ■'
••-.'*•'■ • ' " ; ..
• . . BQ • •'
*.'■•' ' ' ■ r , • - • J •• :■ ■
■ • * • . • - • • - .-■ ;
■•"x ■- . -
■• ' :
"■ • ■
■•"•.; «. .■'.'■..-.■■..,:" ■..-■■ . ■'
- ;.' V ::•'■■ ■ • • D
"•-•■- ' . • ,, ..- . ,-
'' . " • .- . . •- -'--■/. \)x>i '•-" ,: . •;>- • ■ • •
....
' ' ' •
'• . ■■.•'.-. -
■ - * . ■ ■ - .
-2-
Harvest has not yet progressed far enough to test farmers1 reactions. The
real test will come when harvest is well along in Kansas and Illinois and early ex-
port and flour buying has been finished.
Soybean crushing set an all-time record high in May, when 32.2 million
bushels were processed. At current processing and export rates, old soybeans will
be used up east of the Mississippi this marketing year. CCC is rapidly disposing of
its stocks. It now looks as if carryover will be less than 20 million bushels and
perhaps as low as 12 million. Most of these stocks will be in Iowa, Minnesota and
Chicago.
Soybean meal prices remain strong but are quite high. Soybean oil stands
near its lowest price in several years. Oil weakness has resulted from slow export
sales.
-30-
HDG:cm
6/27/58
■ ■
| .. . • .
' : • • ' ■ - •
>B h J '':..■' ' ■ .
■•'"-. •
-.-,-■ ...
• • 3 '.. ■ ■
to. <^
Farm News
IVERSITY OF ILLINOIS • COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE
EXTENSION SERVICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Test Cattle Are Gaining Well on Synovex
URDANA — Steers implanted with Synovex hormone material may
put on cheaper gains than stilbestrol- implanted steers, according to
G. R. Carlisle, University of Illinois livestock extension specialist.
Experimental work with the new hormone looks promising at
the Illinois and Kansas experiment stations, Carlisle says.
The Kansas station reports that, although the Synovex implant,
costs several times as much as the widely used stilbestrol implant,
gains in two of the three tests conducted were 75 cents to $1.50 per
100 pounds cheaper when Synovex was used instead of stilbestrol. In
the third test, stilbestrol- implanted steers gained slightly more
economically.
Illinois trials last year showed that Synovex- implanted
steers outgained stilbestrol- implanted animals fed similarly by 40 to
49 pounds in a year's time. Tests now under way again show promise.
Synovex- implanted steers are about 10 pounds heavier than similar
stilbestrol- implanted cattle after 140 days in the feedlot.
-30-
PB J: cm
6/30/58
FPP
■ . . .
.'■■■. La
.' i • ■ . - • . . - f: . ■
>~: '■■ ■ .< . ■ ■ I
: ' I: I '. • " . v. ■• . " J
. ' : '• • '■ ! ■•■
-''.'.'.'■-' ' ' . . . ■
- ■' ■ ••...'
■".■•.... • ' _ SJ ! ijtl.il
•-.'-• • ■ ■ '" •■ ". . .
. . '-■••'■' . . . . ■
. - • • ' ", .• ' V ■ ■ .
• - . ' . • : ■..'■•.' ' .- : '
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Rainy Weather Causes Serious Weed Problem
URBANA — Wet weather in June caused a serious weed problem
in many Illinois corn and soybean fields. Normal cultivation offers
little hope of cleaning out the bumper v;eed crop in many fields.
At this late date about the only chemical that will help
farmers control weeds is 2,4-D, according to Ralph Gantz, University
of Illinois extension agronomist. However, this chemical will help to
control only the broad-leaf and not the grassy weeds.
This means that little can be done about weeds in soybeans
that can't be removed by normal cultivation, Gantz points out.
To control weeds in corn, the agronomist recommends applying
no more than 1/4 pound of the ester form or 1/2 pound of the amine
form of 2,4-D per acre. Use nozzle extensions so that the weeds will
get maximum spray coverage and the corn plants will get as little as
possible.
The larger the broad-leaf weeds, the more difficult it is to
kill them. Large weeds may be stunted only temporarily. If weeds are
as high as the corn, the chances of killing them without, injuring the
corn are not too good. Heavier applications of 2,4-D are more likely
to kill the weeds, but are also more likely to injure the corn.
The most common 2,4-D injury to corn is development of brittle
stalks. When corn is growing rapidly, this brittleness shows up in a
few days after spraying. A windstorm or cultivation during this period
may result in serious stalk breakage.
Weeds can be controlled with 2,4-D in grain sorghums about
the same as in corn. Since sorghums are slightly more sensitive than
corn, the above rates should be followed closely. Spraying is least
likely to damage sorghums when the plants are 4 to 12 inches high.
-30-
HDGrcm
6/30/58
FPP
I
.
'
9
■
.
'
•
-
. '
'
|
' .
.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
List Emergency Crops for July Plantings
URBANA — Even though crops have been flooded out, emergency
crops can be planted even up to the end of July, points out W, o. Scott,
University of Illinois crops extension specialist.
Corn can still be planted in July for silage, Scott says.
Livestock farmers will probably find that they can get more feed from
corn silage than from any other crop at this time. Farmers who can
feed soft corn may want to go ahead and plant corn. Soft corn can be
fed at whatever stage the frost catches it.
But planting corn for use as grain is very risky now, scott
emphasizes. There's less than a 50-50 chance that Illinois farmers can
plant corn and get a crop except in extreme southern Illinois.
Farmers who plant corn should hill-drop a fertilizer that
is high in phosphate to help hasten maturity, says soils specialist
A. L. Lang. He recommends 100 pounds of 0-45-0 or equivalent.
The best crop to plant now would be early-maturing soybeans,
such as Chippewa, Blackhawk or Harosoy. There's better than a 50-50
chance that they will mature if planted up to July 15.
Grain sorghums like Reliance and Norghum might also be
planted. They will mature in 75 to 90 days. But Scott says sorghum
presents a drying problem in the fall, and it may also be hard to find
a market.
Buckwheat and Proso millet will usually mature if planted
up to the end of July. These crops may also be difficult to sell, but
they can be fed.
-more-
.
•
kwoj ■
...
'
-
q
■
■
■
■
■
. •
.
.
_
'
Add Planting - 2
Further information about emergency crops can be obtained
from University of Illinois Circular 72G, Crops for Emergency Plantings
Get it from your county farm adviser or directly from the College of
Agriculture at Urbana.
If planting should be delayed beyond July 20 and buckwheat
or millet is not planted. Then Scott suggests that about the best
thing would be to prepare the land to have it ready for a fall seeding
of alfalfa or a winter grain crop,
-30-
HDG t cm
6/30/58
■ .
-
'
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Keep Field Tile Drain Systems Working
URBANA — Excessive June rains have given tile drains in Illi-
nois fields a real test.
Many fields that owners thought to be well tiled have
suffered serious flood damage, according to Ralph C. Hay, agricultural
engineer at the University of Illinois College of Agriculture. Most of
this damage has been caused because tile lines were not large enough to
handle the load or were not working properly.
If drainage is not. satisfactory, first place to look for
trouble is at the tile outlet, Hay suggests. Tile outlets that are
badly clogged with dirt, debris or broken tile have little chance to
work right.
With a reasonably satisfactory outlet ditch to carry off
the tile water, most tile outlets can usually be protected most eco-
nomically with a length of corrugated metal pipe for the last 15 to 20
feet, of the line, Hay says. The metal pipe should be two inches larger
in diameter than the outlet, tile and connected to the tile with a con-
crete collar. Not more than, one- third of the pipe length should extend
out. from the side of the ditch bank.
When drop spillway dams are being used to control gullying
in drainage ditches, it. is good practice to bring tile outlets through
the concrete head wall to drain onto the spillway apron. But such
structures are not needed to protect only the tile line.
-more-
•
.
-
.
• [
•
Add Tile Lines - 2
Promptly repair any holes that develop over a tile line, the
agricultural engineer suggests. Such holes, when neglected and allowed
to get larger, threaten to clog a tile line with eroded soil and create
a serious safety hazard to tractors and machinery operated in the field,
Sometimes tile systems seem to fail over an entire field.
Then the soil itself must be examined. If tile drainage never has
been good, the cause may be a slowly permeable soil type. In this case
a surface drainage system may be needed to supplement the tile lines.
on the other hand, if drainage has been good and then fails,
the cause may be a tightening in the physical condition of the soil
from cropping and soil management practices. One way to help correct
this condition is to use a rotation that includes more deep-rooted
legumes. Regular use of alfalfa may help a tile system work better,
Hay says.
Tile systems may also wear out and need to be replaced, the
agricultural engineer points out. Tile breaks and increasing numbers
of wet spots may indicate that the life of the tile system is about
gone.
Whenever farmers need to install new tile lines, they should
make a complete survey in order to provide for adequate and proper
sized outlets and a regular system of laterals. The system need not
be installed at one time, but the most-needed parts should be put in
as soon as possible.
When new tile systems are planned and installed, maps and
profiles should be made and kept as permanent records, Hay suggests.
You can get help with checking, designing and building tile drainage
systems from your county soil conservation district.
-30-
RAJrcm
6/30/58
'
. ' j . ..
■
■
.
■
■
'
■
.
-
:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DeKalb Agronomy Field Day To Show Latest Research
URBANA — Visitors attending the Northern Illinois Agronomy
Field Day on July 10 will see a wide range of practical research and
hear about the latest insect situation. The field day will get under
way at the University of Illinois Research Center five miles southwest
of DeKalb at 1:00 p.m. DST.
Topics scheduled for the tour include oat, wheat and barley
varieties and diseases, forage crop varieties and management, what's
inside the oat plant, corn planting-rate studies, pre-emergence chemi-
cals, Canada thistle control and soil management.
university agronomists use the DeKalb center to test crop
varieties and cultural practices suited to northern Illinois. Similar
test centers are maintained at Brownstown in Fayette county and at
Carbondale in cooperation with Southern Illinois University. The main
soils and crops research center is at the University of Illinois Agron-
omy Farm at Urbana.
-30-
PB J: cm
6/30/58
.
'
■
- .' . 6 • ■- . . - .
• ■ . ■ ■ ..... .
■' " '■ ■ ' ' ■ : :■.
....
:•
- . , . - . . . . •.
TIPS FOR ILLINOIS GARDENERS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Keep Trees and Shrubs Green During the Summer
by Harleigh Kemraerer
Specialist in Landscape Gardening, University of Illinois
URBANA— If you want to keep your trees and shrubs healthy and growing
this summer, you'll need to give them care and attention.
First, give them plenty of water. Trees and shrubs planted this spring
particularly need water throughout the summer. Soak the soil at least one foot
deep. Watering once every 10 days should give the plants adequate moisture.
When watering trees and shrubs, lay a hose at the base of the plant and
let it run slowly for three or four hours. Or, better still, use a root soaker
that places water directly in the soil. This gadget hooked to your hose will soak
the plants thoroughly without runoff.
You can also use the root soaker to water well-established trees and
shrubs. But they will not need water very often. A good soaking is advisable
whenever a week of hot weather occurs without rain.
Mulches help to conserve moisture. You can reduce the need to apply water
by putting a two-inch layer of ground corncobs or one inch of peat moss on the
soil surface. The mulch keeps the soil mellow and in good condition to absorb
moisture. It also helps to prevent weeds.
Weeds often interfere with the natural development of trees and shrubs.
They also compete for moisture and nutrients. If your mulch doesn't keep weeds
down, pull them or chop them out with a hoe. But don't dig too deep with a hoe or
you will disturb the small, fibrous feeder roots of the trees and shrubs.
Insects and diseases will cause a lot of damage this year. Red spider
nites will be particularly damaging to evergreens. To control them, wash down ever-
greens with a forceful jet of water once a week. Or use sprays of aramite, ortho-
aite or ovatran.
-more-
■
.
-
-
'
.'
.
.
•
■
-2-
Bagworms also are damaging to evergreens and deciduous plants. They cravl
over the plants, eating foliage as they go. Lead arsenate or malathion will control
them.
Pests on roses can easily he controlled by dusting or spraying with all-
purpose pesticides. Be sure to apply the materials at least once a week. In other
words, prevention is better than cure.
-30-
PAC:cm
6/30/58
FPP
.
■
FOR RELEASE WEEK OF JULY 7, 1958
National Farm Safety Week July 20-26
Constant efforts are being made to get farm folk to work and
live safely.
In the week of July 20-26, another major nationwide cooper-
tive drive will focus attention on the lurking dangers that surround
farm residents. As usual it is spearheaded by the Farm Division of
the National Safety Council and the U. S. Department of Agriculture,
along with state safety councils and thousands of local workers on
this vital project.
Laws and regulations help to some extent, but the main re-
sponsibility for preventing serious farm accidents must be placed on
the individual, says 0. L. Hogsett, extension safety specialist of the
College of Agriculture at the University of Illinois.
Farmers now work with equipment that approaches Aladdin's
lamp in efficiency* It involves use of machines, electricity and
chemicals, Hogsett says. Don't get so familiar with these modern helpers
that you grow careless about operating and using them safely.
It's important to take the fear out of farming by practising
safety throughout the year rather than splurging in July and then ignor-
ing the dangers the rest of the year, the specialist concludes.
-30-
OLHtcm
6/31/58
FPP
■
I
■ ■" ' .
"
■ . . ■ . ■
6
...
,
■
■
■ • •
■
Live Music Archive
Librivox Free Audio
Metropolitan Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Internet Arcade
Console Living Room
Books to Borrow
Open Library
TV News
Understanding 9/11