ImageTitleSummaryCategoryTopicSourceDate Publishedhf:tax:document_categoryhf:tax:topic
5 Easy Steps to Compost
5 Easy Steps to Compost

Interested in managing your horse’s manure through composting? This guide provides information on how to build and use a horse manure composting system. A small download fee applies for this document.

HorsesManure ManagementHorses for Clean Water2005horses agriculturemanure-management
5 management tips for when pastures run low
5 management tips for when pastures run low

It’s always a good idea to be prepared for water stress with your herd. This article lists ways to handle drought conditions.

CattleGrazing Management, Insect Control, Pasture ManagementBeef Magazine, University of Minnesota Extension2021cattle agriculturegrazing-management insect-control forage-management
A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests
A Management Guide for Invasive Plants in Southern Forests

This is a great guide for planning a management strategy for invasive plants in a forested landscape, including management strategies for common invasive plants in the Southeast.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesFS2015cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Adding Legumes to Predominantly Grass Pastures
Adding Legumes to Predominantly Grass Pastures

Learn how to incorporate legumes into a predominantly grass pasture; including legume seeding rates.

CattlePasture ManagementNRCS2013cattle agricultureforage-management
Agronomy Handbook
Agronomy Handbook

This handbook is packed full of information on Virginia crops (including forage) and soils, hay recommendations (Inc. seeding and storage), information on pasture and nutrient management, and more.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsGrazing Management, Hay Production, Pasture Management, Soil Testing and FertilizationVCE2000cattle crops hay horses small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management hay-making forage-management soil-testing
Agronomy Handbook - Nutrient Management
Agronomy Handbook – Nutrient Management

This publication discusses the purpose and components of nutrient management planning.

Cattle, CropsManure ManagementVCE2000cattle crops agriculturemanure-management
Armed and Dangerous Invasive MULTIFLORA ROSE
Armed and Dangerous Invasive MULTIFLORA ROSE

Multiflora rose is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control multiflora rose.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2017other agricultureinvasive-species
Assaults Fields, Forests, and Bottomlands CHINESE PRIVET
Assaults Fields, Forests, and Bottomlands CHINESE PRIVET

Chinese privet is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control Chinese privet.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Avoid Overgrazing Your Pastures
Avoid Overgrazing Your Pastures

As cool season grasses slow their growth during hot summer months, it’s important to avoid overgrazing. This article discusses the problems with overgrazing and provides suggestions for good grazing management.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementPenn State Extension2018cattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Baby calves, new seedings, and a bad day
Baby calves, new seedings, and a bad day

When seedings fail, it’s a good idea to find the cause. Here’s an article by Hay & Forage Grower on the 5 reasons why new seedings fail.

Cattle, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsGrazing Management, Hay Production, Pasture ManagementHay & Forage Grower2021cattle hay horses small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management hay-making forage-management
Beneficial Uses of Cover Crops
Beneficial Uses of Cover Crops

Interested in implementing cover crops on your farm? This publication provides a list of benefits for planting cover crops with descriptions.

CropsCover CropsVCE2020crops agriculturecover-crops
Big Bale Storage Losses; how different options stack up
Big Bale Storage Losses; how different options stack up

Learn how different bale storage options compare based on dry matter loss.

HayHay ProductionUW Madison2007hay agriculturehay-making
BUILDING SOILS FOR BETTER CROPS SUSTAINABLE SOIL MANAGEMENT
BUILDING SOILS FOR BETTER CROPS SUSTAINABLE SOIL MANAGEMENT

Building Soils for Better Crops is a practical guide to ecological soil management that provides background information as well as details of soil-improving practices.

CropsCover Crops, No-Till, Soil Testing and FertilizationSARE2009crops agriculturecover-crops no-till soil-testing
Climate change influences on crop mix shifts in the United States
Climate change influences on crop mix shifts in the United States

This study examines how land use shares of US crops have been affected by past climate change and then projects shifts into the future. The analysis is done at the county level employing the results of estimated crop mix share equations.

ClimateScientific Reports2017climate agriculture
Climate change is affecting crop yields and reducing global food supplies
Climate change is affecting crop yields and reducing global food supplies

Farmers are used to dealing with weather, but climate change is making it harder by altering temperature and rainfall patterns, as in this year’s unusually cool and wet spring in the central U.S.

ClimateThe Conversation2019climate agriculture
Common Plants Causing Toxicity to Horses in Virginia
Common Plants Causing Toxicity to Horses in Virginia

There are a number of common pasture weeds that are toxic to horses, some only being toxic under certain environmental conditions. Learn to identify toxic plants, notice signs of toxicity, and treat weeds with this guide.

HorsesInvasive Species, Pasture ManagementVCE2009horses agricultureinvasive-species forage-management
Constructing a Sacrifice Area for Horse Operations
Constructing a Sacrifice Area for Horse Operations

This document provides information on creating a sacrifice area including; location, sizing, construction, and maintenance.

HorsesGrazing Management, Winter FeedingNVSWCDhorses agriculturegrazing-management winter-feeding
Control and Utilization of Tree of Heaven
Control and Utilization of Tree of Heaven

Tree of heaven is a common invasive plant found in Virginia. This guide gives information on how to control tree of heaven as well as how to utilize the wood.

OtherInvasive SpeciesDOF2019other agricultureinvasive-species
Control of Common Grassy Weeds in Pastures and Hayfields
Control of Common Grassy Weeds in Pastures and Hayfields

Learn about weed management and herbicide application for common pasture weeds; including Johnsongrass, Japanese Stiltgrass, Broomsedge, and Foxtails.

Cattle, HayPasture ManagementVCE2018cattle hay agricultureforage-management
Control of Common Pasture and Hayfield Weeds in Virginia and West Virginia
Control of Common Pasture and Hayfield Weeds in Virginia and West Virginia

Need information on controlling weeds in your pastures? This document discusses when and how to control weeds commonly found in Virginia pastures.

Cattle, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsPasture ManagementVCE2009cattle hay horses small-ruminants agricultureforage-management
Controlled Grazing of Virginia’s Pastures
Controlled Grazing of Virginia’s Pastures

Learn about the benefits of controlled grazing, how controlled grazing influences pasture plants, and how to establish, manage, and extend a controlled grazing system.

CattleGrazing ManagementVCE2009cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Controlling Invasive Plants Effectively & Safely with Herbicides
Controlling Invasive Plants Effectively & Safely with Herbicides

This document discusses the use of herbicides for controlling invasive plants and the various ways to apply these herbicides.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Converting from Wildtype to Novel Tall Fescue
Converting from Wildtype to Novel Tall Fescue

Learn about the difference between novel and wildtype endophytes, and considerations for renovating pastures with toxic fescue.

CattlePasture ManagementNRCS2020cattle agricultureforage-management
Converting Pastures to Native Warm Season Grasses: Forage for Drought in Bedford County
Converting Pastures to Native Warm Season Grasses: Forage for Drought in Bedford County

Planting warm season grasses helps maintain productivity during summer months susceptible to drought conditions. This article describes the process of a Virginia farmer’s conversion to warm season grasses.

CattlePasture ManagementVCE2020cattle agricultureforage-management
Cover Crop Economics: Opportunities to Improve Your Bottom Line in Row Crops
Cover Crop Economics: Opportunities to Improve Your Bottom Line in Row Crops

This document talks about the economics of cover crops by looking at multiple factors. It talks about short-term and long-term impacts of cover crops on yields and profit, how cover crops impact farms based on their problem areas (drought, weeds, or soil compaction), and the impacts of cover crops on the environment.

CropsCover CropsSARE2019crops agriculturecover-crops
Cover Crops for All Seasons
Cover Crops for All Seasons

Interested in planting cover crops? This document provides information about different cover crop species.

CropsCover CropsVABF2006crops agriculturecover-crops
Creating and Using a Sacrifice Area for Horses
Creating and Using a Sacrifice Area for Horses

Sacrifice areas are important to increase pasture health and productivity. This article discusses why to use a sacrifice area and how to create a sacrifice area. It goes over important criteria when deciding how to build your sacrifice area, such as location, size, fencing type, and footing.

HorsesManure ManagementHorses for Clean Water2015horses agriculturemanure-management
Crop Changes: How to Live With It
Crop Changes: How to Live With It

Climate change may actually benefit some plants by lengthening growing seasons and increasing carbon dioxide. Yet other effects of a warmer world, such as more pests, droughts, and flooding, will be less benign. How will the world adapt?

ClimateNational Geographic2021climate agriculture
Deceptive and Crafty Invasive MILE-A-MINUTE VINE
Deceptive and Crafty Invasive MILE-A-MINUTE VINE

Mile-a-minute vine is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control mile-a-minute vine.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2017other agricultureinvasive-species
Destroyer of Fields, Pastures and Woodlands AUTUMN OLIVE
Destroyer of Fields, Pastures and Woodlands AUTUMN OLIVE

Autumn olive is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control autumn olive.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Developing a Grazing System for Sheep & Goats
Developing a Grazing System for Sheep & Goats

The grazing habits of sheep and goats differ from traditional livestock production and they can be incorporated into the grazing systems for cattle and horses.Goats tend to browse more while sheep tend to graze.

Small RuminantsGrazing ManagementMississippi State Extension Service2008small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management
Electric Fencing
Electric Fencing

If you’re interested in installing electric fencing, this is a good guide for installation.

CattleGrazing ManagementNRCS2005cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Escaped and Dangerous Invasive ASIATIC BITTERSWEET
Escaped and Dangerous Invasive ASIATIC BITTERSWEET

Asiatic bittersweet is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control Asiatic bittersweet.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Exotic Invasive Plants
Exotic Invasive Plants

This document discusses what exotic invasive plants are, what characteristics help them proliferate in many environments, and their negative ecological impact. There is also information on how to control invasive plants .

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesVCE2020cattle crops hay horses small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Extend Grazing with Summer Stockpiling
Extend Grazing with Summer Stockpiling

Interested in Summer Stockpiling? This document discusses what summer stockpiling is, and the benefits and steps for summer stockpiling.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture Management, Winter FeedingNRCS2020cattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management winter-feeding
Extending Grazing and Reducing Stored Feed Needs
Extending Grazing and Reducing Stored Feed Needs

Learn how to extend your grazing season through mixed species planting, stockpiling forage, grazing management, and unique grazing opportunities.

CattleGrazing ManagementGLCI2008cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Fast and Furious Killer KUDZU
Fast and Furious Killer KUDZU

Kudzu is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control Kudzu.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Five Keys to Better Pastures
Five Keys to Better Pastures

This document discusses five steps to improve your horse pastures. A small download fee applies for this document.

HorsesGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementHorses for Clean Water2005horses agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Forage Establishment: Getting Off to a Good Start
Forage Establishment: Getting Off to a Good Start

Learn how to establish forage species, control weeds, adjust soil fertility and PH, and choose the right forage species.

Cattle, HayPasture ManagementVCE2009cattle hay agricultureforage-management
Forage Growth and Management Effects
Forage Growth and Management Effects

Are you grazing your grasses to the proper height? Use this guide to learn about optimal grazing heights.

Cattle, HayGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementNRCS2005cattle hay agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Forage Management: Smaller Pastures=Better Pastures
Forage Management: Smaller Pastures=Better Pastures

There are many things that can be done to get more forage from our pasture. Fertilizing, controlling weeds, and planting clovers are just a few. But one of the best ways is often the most overlooked. This method is by wasting less forage. The less forage we waste, the more forage that will be utilized.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementUniversity of Tennessee2022cattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Furiously Aggressive Invasive TREE-OF-HEAVEN, AILANTHUS, PARADISE TREE
Furiously Aggressive Invasive TREE-OF-HEAVEN, AILANTHUS, PARADISE TREE

Tree of heaven is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control tree of heaven.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2017other agricultureinvasive-species
Grazing Management and Soil Health
Grazing Management and Soil Health

Proper grazing management helps improve soil health. Stocking rate, livestock rotation, utilization rate, and plant rest time are important aspects of good grazing management.

CattleGrazing ManagementNRCS2016cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Hay and Pasture Herbicide Guide
Hay and Pasture Herbicide Guide

Learn how to control common pasture weeds with herbicide use. This guide provides example applications for common weeds including application times.

Cattle, HayPasture ManagementVCE2016cattle hay agricultureforage-management
Hay basics
Hay basics

Learn the basics for cutting hay with this guide, including at what maturity stage to harvest based on forage type.

HayHay ProductionNRCS2005hay agriculturehay-making
Horse Manure Management
Horse Manure Management

Manure management is important to keep the environment and horses healthy. Learn about proper manure storage including how to compost manure.

HorsesManure ManagementHorses Ext2020horses agriculturemanure-management
How to Control Invasive Plants Manual, Mechanical and Biological Methods
How to Control Invasive Plants Manual, Mechanical and Biological Methods

There are a number of ways to manage invasive species including manual, mechanical, or biological methods. This document discusses how to remove invasive species through pulling, cutting, or animal grazing.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Insect Control in Field Crops
Insect Control in Field Crops

Learn about different types of insects that occur on forage or crops and recommendations on insect control methods.

CropsInsect ControlVCE2023crops agricultureinsect-control
Insidious & Formidable Invasive JAPANESE STILTGRASS
Insidious & Formidable Invasive JAPANESE STILTGRASS

Japanese stiltgrass is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control Japanese stiltgrass.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2017other agricultureinvasive-species
Invasive Plants
Invasive Plants

This pamphlet provides information to understand what invasive plants are including images of common invasive plants.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesDOF2017cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Landscape Tree Gone Wild and Rogue Bradford, Callery and Other Ornamental Pears
Landscape Tree Gone Wild and Rogue Bradford, Callery and Other Ornamental Pears

Bradford pear is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control bradford pear.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2020other agricultureinvasive-species
Landscaping with Native Plants on Horse Farms
Landscaping with Native Plants on Horse Farms

This article discusses why native plants are great for landscaping and which plants are non-toxic to horses.

HorsesGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementPenn State Extension2022horses agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Maintaining Healthy Horse Pastures
Maintaining Healthy Horse Pastures

Learn some tips about horse pasture management and design.

HorsesGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementVCE2009horses agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Manage Insects on Your Farm: A Guide to Ecological Strategies
Manage Insects on Your Farm: A Guide to Ecological Strategies

Learn how to manage insects and pests using ecological strategies. Encouraging beneficial insects, increasing species diversity, and managing soil health are some strategies to help manage insects and pests.

CropsInsect ControlSARE2005crops agricultureinsect-control
Managing Grassland for Profit
Managing Grassland for Profit

Learn about rotational grazing management, the pros and cons of grazing systems, and considerations for your grazing operation. When planning a grazing system, it’s important to consider forage management, water availability, fencing plans, soil fertility, and weed / brush control.

CattleGrazing ManagementNRCS2000cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Managing Virginia’s Steep Pastures
Managing Virginia’s Steep Pastures

Learn how to manage steep pastures for longer productivity; including recommended forage mixtures, weed control, fertilization, fencing, and grazing.

Cattle, Horses, Small RuminantsGrazing ManagementVCE2009cattle horses small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management
Multispecies Grazing: A Primer on Diversity
Multispecies Grazing: A Primer on Diversity

Multispecies grazing can increase carrying capacity, control parasites, help manage weeds, and provide safety from predators. Learn about the benefits and considerations for multispecies grazing.

Cattle, Horses, Small RuminantsGrazing ManagementLee Rinehart2018cattle horses small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management
Native Warm-Season Grasses
Native Warm-Season Grasses

Learn to identify, establish, and manage warm season grasses using this plant guide.

Cattle, Hay, HorsesPasture ManagementUTE2007cattle hay horses agricultureforage-management
No-Till Seeding of Forage Grasses and Legumes
No-Till Seeding of Forage Grasses and Legumes

Learn the value of no-till seeding, and when to use broadcast frost seeding or no-till drilling to establish grasses and legumes. This article provides information on seeding rates, mixtures, and herbicide use.

Cattle, HayPasture ManagementVCE2009cattle hay agricultureforage-management
No-Tillage Small Grain Production in Virginia
No-Tillage Small Grain Production in Virginia

If you are interested in no till planting, this publication offers great information and considerations for small grain producers.

CropsVCE2009crops agriculture
Non-Native Invasive Plant Species Control Treatments
Non-Native Invasive Plant Species Control Treatments

This guide provides management tactics for timing, methods and herbicide rates to control Non-native invasive plants found in Virginia.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesDOF2018cattle crops hay horses small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Nonnative Invasive ID and Control
Nonnative Invasive ID and Control

This landowner guide for identifying invasive plants in your backyard contains photos for proper identification, control recommendations, and identification of native plant look-alikes that are commonly mistaken as invasive.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesFairfax County Park Authority2008cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Nonnative Invasive Plants of Southern Forests A Field Guide for Identification and Control
Nonnative Invasive Plants of Southern Forests A Field Guide for Identification and Control

This is a great guide for identifying and controlling invasive plants. The guide provides numerous photos and descriptions to help identify invasive plants.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesFS2006cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Nutrient Management for Small Farms
Nutrient Management for Small Farms

This publication discusses how to quantify and determine use of manure nutrients in small farms as a crop fertilizer.

Cattle, CropsManure ManagementVCE2018cattle crops agriculturemanure-management
Pasture Management by the Seasons
Pasture Management by the Seasons

Use this pasture management by the seasons resource to assist in creating or updating your pasture management schedule.

HorsesGrazing ManagementPenn State Extension2018horses agriculturegrazing-management
Planned Grazing
Planned Grazing

Learn the benefits of rotational grazing systems, and considerations when planning for your own operation. Rotational grazing has benefits for livestock nutrition, parasite control, and soil health.

CattleGrazing ManagementHereford World2011cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Planning Fencing Systems For Controlled Grazing
Planning Fencing Systems For Controlled Grazing

Learn how to plan your fencing layout for a controlled grazing system. Considerations include fixed and temporary fencing, forage type, water supply, and shade.

Cattle, Horses, Small RuminantsGrazing ManagementVCE2019cattle horses small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management
Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas
Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas

This is a great guide for identifying invasive plants in the Mid-Atlantic region. It provides a background on what invasive plants are, information about different species, and control recommendation.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesNPS & FWS2002cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Ponds - Planning, Design, Construction
Ponds – Planning, Design, Construction

This book provides information on how to plan, design, and construct a pond.

OtherPond ConstructionNRCS1982other agriculturepond-construction
Prolific and Menacing Invasive JAPANESE HONEYSUCKLE
Prolific and Menacing Invasive JAPANESE HONEYSUCKLE

Japanese honeysuckle is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control Japanese honeysuckle.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Rampant and Most-feared Invasive GARLIC MUSTARD
Rampant and Most-feared Invasive GARLIC MUSTARD

Garlic Mustard is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control garlic mustard.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
REPORT ALL SIGHTINGS of this Dangerous, Dreaded Invasive WAVYLEAF GRASS OR WAVYLEAF BASKETGRASS
REPORT ALL SIGHTINGS of this Dangerous, Dreaded Invasive WAVYLEAF GRASS OR WAVYLEAF BASKETGRASS

Wavyleaf grass is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control wavyleaf grass.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Riparian Forest Handbook 1: Appreciating and Evaluating Stream Side Forests
Riparian Forest Handbook 1: Appreciating and Evaluating Stream Side Forests

This handbook is a great guide for anyone interested in riparian forests. The handbook explains the importance of riparian forests, discusses how to measure the health of a riparian forest, and advises on how to restore a riparian forest.

Cattle, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsRiparian BufferDOFcattle horses other small-ruminants agricultureforest-buffer
Rolling out fertility
Rolling Out Fertility

Rolling out hay is a great way to feed livestock in the winter months. Read about one farmers experience with rolling out hay.

CattlePasture Management, Winter FeedingHighland Cattlecattle agricultureforage-management winter-feeding
Soil Quality Test Kit Guide
Soil Quality Test Kit Guide

This guide describes a kit of selected field procedures to evaluate or indicate the level of one or more soil functions. Procedures include soil respiration, infiltration, bulk density, electrical conductivity, soil PH, soil nitrate, aggregate stability, soil slaking, earthworms, soil physical properties, and water quality.

CropsSoil Testing and FertilizationUSDA2001crops agriculturesoil-testing
Soil Sampling and pH Management for Forages
Soil Sampling and pH Management for Forages

Soil sampling and proper pH are important for forage production. Learn how and when to test your pastures, and the impact of pH on soil.

Cattle, Hay, Horses, Small RuminantsPasture Management, Soil Testing and FertilizationNRCS2005cattle hay horses small-ruminants agricultureforage-management soil-testing
Soil Sampling For The Home Gardener

This guide provides information on how to properly take a soil sample for home gardens.

CropsSoil Testing and FertilizationVCE2020crops agriculturesoil-testing
Soil Sampling Instructions for the Farm
Soil Sampling Instructions for the Farm

This guide provides information on how to properly take a soil sample on a farm.

CropsSoil Testing and FertilizationVCE2019crops agriculturesoil-testing
Soil Test Note No. 2 – Field Crops
Soil Test Note No. 2 – Field Crops

This document explains when and how to apply lime, nitrogen, and phosphorous to field crops.

CropsSoil Testing and FertilizationVCE2014crops agriculturesoil-testing
Soil Test Note No. 3 – Liming and Fertilization of Cool-Season Forage Crops
Soil Test Note No. 3 – Liming and Fertilization of Cool-Season Forage Crops

This document explains how to apply nitrogen and fertilizer to pasture and hay fields.

Cattle, HayPasture Management, Soil Testing and FertilizationVCE2019cattle hay agricultureforage-management soil-testing
Starting the Grazing Season off Right
Starting the Grazing Season off Right

Properly managing stocking density during the rapid spring growth can help extend the stand of your grass. Being proactive in the spring will give positive results all year long.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementUniversity of Kentuckyunknowncattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Stealthy and Insidious Invasive PORCELAIN-BERRY
Stealthy and Insidious Invasive PORCELAIN-BERRY

Porcelain berry is an invasive plant found in Virginia. This factsheet provides information on how to identify, where to look for, and how to control porcelain berry.

OtherInvasive SpeciesBlue Ridge PRISM2021other agricultureinvasive-species
Stockpiling Tall Fescue
Stockpiling Tall Fescue

Stockpiling tall fescue is a great way to extend the grazing season. Learn about the four key decisions when stockpiling; Field Selection, Timing, Fertility, and Utilization by Livestock.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture Management, Winter FeedingNRCS2005cattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management winter-feeding
Strategies to Mitigate Tall Fescue Toxicosis
Strategies to Mitigate Tall Fescue Toxicosis

This guide provides information on how to reduce Tall Fescue Toxicosis through pasture management, and provides information on the signs of Toxicosis, and under what conditions alkaloid concentrations are increased.

Cattle, Small RuminantsPasture ManagementNRCS2020cattle small-ruminants agricultureforage-management
Streamside Livestock Exclusion
Streamside Livestock Exclusion

Learn about the benefits of excluding livestock from streams, how to exclude livestock from streams, and what programs are available for assistance.

CattleGrazing ManagementDCR, VCE2012cattle agriculturegrazing-management
Successful No-Tillage Corn Production
Successful No-Tillage Corn Production

If you are interested in no-till planting, this publication offers great information and considerations for corn producers.

CropsNo-TillVCE2019crops agricultureno-till
Tall Fescue Characteristics and Management
Tall Fescue Characteristics and Management

Learn about the endophytic fungus associated with Tall Fescue, how it spreads, and practical solutions.

CattlePasture ManagementNRCS2005cattle agricultureforage-management
Tall Fescue, Endophytes and Alkaloids, and Fescue Toxicosis
Tall Fescue, Endophytes and Alkaloids, and Fescue Toxicosis

Learn about the growth and nutritional value of Tall Fescue, and the impacts of Endophyte Infected Fescue on livestock.

Cattle, HayPasture ManagementVCE2019cattle hay agricultureforage-management
Ten Ways Cover Crops Enhance Soil Health
Ten Ways Cover Crops Enhance Soil Health

Learn about how planting cover crops enhances soil health!

CropsCover CropsSARE2017crops agriculturecover-crops
The Mid-Atlantic Nutrient Management Handbook
The Mid-Atlantic Nutrient Management Handbook

This guide provides information on what nutrient management plans are and the concepts of nutrient management planning.

Cattle, CropsManure Managementcattle crops agriculturemanure-management
The Science Behind the Need for Riparian Buffer Protection
The Science Behind the Need for Riparian Buffer Protection

This document discusses the benefits of riparian buffers and buffer widths needed for different benefits.

OtherRiparian BufferPennsylvania Land Trust Association2014other agricultureforest-buffer
Transform a poor pasture into a good one
Transform a poor pasture into a good one

It’s not an unusual situation for people to suddenly find themselves as the not-so-proud owner or long-term renter of a previously abused or neglected pasture. In such situations, questions often arise as to what the best plan of action is to bring an abused pasture back to full productivity.

AgriculturePasture ManagementHay and Forage Grower Magazine2022agricultureforage-management
Understanding Forage Quality
Understanding Forage Quality

Learn what affects forage quality (temperature, maturity, and leaf-to-stem ratio, etc.), how to sample hay and pasture forage, animal forage needs, and economics impacts.

CattlePasture ManagementUW Extension2001cattle agricultureforage-management
Understanding the Science Behind Riparian Forest Buffers: Effects on Water Quality
Understanding the Science Behind Riparian Forest Buffers: Effects on Water Quality

This document discusses the benefits of riparian forest buffers and what factors affect the benefits of the riparian buffer.

Cattle, Small RuminantsRiparian BufferVCE2009cattle small-ruminants agricultureforest-buffer
Using a Summer Stockpiling System to Extend the Grazing Season
Using a Summer Stockpiling System to Extend the Grazing Season

Learn how to summer stockpile pastures in order to save forage for late summer / early Fall. This article provides information about summer stockpiled forage yield and quality.

CattleWinter FeedingVCE2017cattle agriculturewinter-feeding
Using Annual Forages and Improved Grazing Management to Build Soil Health and Improve System Performance
Using Annual Forages and Improved Grazing Management to Build Soil Health and Improve System Performance

Learn how different annual forage mixtures compare in yield, cover, quality, and cost.

CattlePasture ManagementVFGC2018cattle agricultureforage-management
Video: A Step by Step Approach to Building Pasture Productivity and Soil Health
Video: A Step by Step Approach to Building Pasture Productivity and Soil Health

In this video, VFGC interviews a Virginia farmer about his grazing system. The farmer discusses the benefits of rotational grazing, stockpiling fescue, and using annual forages.

Cattle, Small RuminantsGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementVFGC Forages2017cattle small-ruminants agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Video: Experiments with No-Till Cover Crops at Potomac Vegetable Farms 
Video: Experiments with No-Till Cover Crops at Potomac Vegetable Farms 

Video: Learn how using cover crops and no-till methods has benefited this Virginia farmer’s operation.

CropsCover Crops, No-TillNRCS2017crops agriculturecover-crops no-till
Video: Gaining Ground: Successful No-till Farmers Tell Their Stories
Video: Gaining Ground: Successful No-till Farmers Tell Their Stories

In the video, Virginia farmers talk about their no till farming experience and discuss how no till methods benefit them.

CropsNo-TillThe Downstream Project2017crops agricultureno-till
Video: Graze 300
Video: Graze 300

Graze 300 is a great series of videos by VCE covering topics such as; Summer Stockpiling, Grazing Summer Annuals, Stockpiling with Horses, and Fescue Toxicity.

CattleGrazing Management, Winter FeedingVCE2017cattle agriculturegrazing-management winter-feeding
Video: Summer Stockpile (part 1) - What Is Summer Stockpiling?
Video: Summer Stockpile (part 1) – What Is Summer Stockpiling?

This video produced by the Virginia Cooperative Extension talks about what summer stockpiling is and the benefits of summer stockpiling.

CattleGrazing Management, Winter FeedingVCE2017cattle agriculturegrazing-management winter-feeding
Virginia Invasive Plant Species List
Virginia Invasive Plant Species List

This document lists the invasive species common to Virginia including their invasiveness ranking and the region of Virginia in which they occur.

Cattle, Crops, Hay, Horses, Other, Small RuminantsInvasive SpeciesDCR2014cattle crops hay horses other small-ruminants agricultureinvasive-species
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Forage Species for Horse Pastures
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Forage Species for Horse Pastures

It’s important to choose forages that are well adapted to the local conditions, highly productive, and nutritional. This guide discusses different forage species found in Virginia, the conditions they are adapted to, and their productivity.

HorsesPasture ManagementVCE2009horses agricultureforage-management
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Grazing Management
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Grazing Management

Read about grazing management tips for healthy horses. Topics include rotating and resting pasture, using sacrifice areas, providing hay, and mowing maintenance.

HorsesGrazing Management, Pasture ManagementVCE2009horses agriculturegrazing-management forage-management
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Renovating Old Pastures
Virginia’s Horse Pastures: Renovating Old Pastures

Interested in renovating your pastures? This article discusses a series of practices to improve your pastures.

HorsesPasture ManagementVCE2009horses agricultureforage-management
What is a riparian forest buffer?
What is a riparian forest buffer?

Would you like to learn more about riparian buffers? This document discusses the benefits and considerations for riparian buffers.

Cattle, Small RuminantsRiparian BufferUSDA2012cattle small-ruminants agricultureforest-buffer
What to Expect When Stockpiling and Strip-grazing Tall Fescue
What to Expect When Stockpiling and Strip-grazing Tall Fescue

Read about five livestock farmers and their experience with stockpiling and strip grazing for the first time. Learn how the farmers stockpiled and strip-grazed, the results from the practices, and farmer tips for stockpiling and strip-grazing.

CattleGrazing Management, Pasture Management, Winter FeedingVCE, USDA, CBF, NRCS2013cattle agriculturegrazing-management forage-management winter-feeding
Winter Seeding Methods to Establish Clover in Permanent Pasture
Winter Seeding Methods to Establish Clover in Permanent Pasture

A pasture experiment was conducted comparing the effectiveness of broadcast frost seeding and no-till drilling to establish clover. The results found the two methods to be equally effective.

CattlePasture ManagementVCE2010cattle agricultureforage-management