Raising backyard poultry is an increasingly popular endeavor, providing fresh eggs, meat, and companionship, while contributing to a sustainable food system. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced poultry owner, it is essential to understand the fundamental aspects of poultry selection, housing, health management, and biosecurity to ensure a healthy, and productive, flock.
Basic Equine Dental Care and How to Detect Trouble
All horses should receive a complete dental exam, at least yearly, starting from their first year of life. By the time most horse owners recognize that a horse is having trouble eating or is losing weight, that horse’s teeth may be severely abnormal. Proper dental care from the beginning of the horse’s life can help eliminate problems before they start. Seek an experienced equine dentist or equine veterinarian to undertake these necessary horse care issues.
Colic: Its Risk Factors and Prevention
Colic refers to any type of abdominal pain. There are many things that can be done to help prevent horse colic issues. By being aware of the risk factors and implementing these preventative measures, the horse can avoid this painful and costly disorder.
Crisis Communications Planning for Agritourism Operations
Agritourism is a viable option for farms looking to diversify their revenue streams, educate their neighbors and customers about agriculture, and share the joy that their farm offers. While optimism is preferred, preparing a crisis communications plan before it’s needed can aid in the farm’s resilience. Ideally, it becomes a practice that helps the agritourism operation prevent and mitigate threats. Good communication practices are part of any successful business, including communicating during a crisis.
Developing a Biosecurity Plan for Your Livestock or Poultry Operation
A biosecurity plan is a proactive protocol for maintaining the health of animals and people that interact with production or hobby enterprises. The goal of biosecurity is to prevent the introduction and spread of disease-causing pathogens within and between groups of animals and humans. The factsheet integrates a ‘One Health’ approach and is intended for use by livestock operation managers, hobbyists, and others that work closely with poultry and livestock species. The best practices included in this resource may apply to any of the following: chickens, ducks, cattle, goats, sheep, pigs, and other domestic livestock.
USDA RMA and FSA Crop Reporting Deadlines App
UConn Extension and the USDA RMA developed an app which will send reminders of crop insurance and NAP sign-up deadlines. All crops/products that are presently covered by the USDA RMA and USDA FSA in New England are in the app. Notifications will be sent via text and/or email (you select the method) 4 weeks and […]
Invasive Plant Triage for Habitat Managers in Connecticut
Invasive plants are non-native species that reduce native biodiversity, alter habitats, impact the economy, and pose significant threats to ecosystems. The task of managing invasive plants can quickly become overwhelming due to their aggressive establishment and the time, money, and persistence required to achieve positive outcomes. One practical approach is to use triage, an assessment practice that prioritizes invasive species management strategies by the degree of ecological damage to the site and the economic resources required for management. This paper explores the fundamentals of a triage approach to invasive plant management, including its components, challenges, and implementation strategies for effective invasive species management.
Insulin Resistance in Horses – Does It Matter?
Insulin resistance is defined as a reduced sensitivity of the body’s cells to insulin’s facilitation of glucose uptake. This article discusses equine insulin resistance including its causes, effects, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.
Meet Matt Syrotiak
Matt Syrotiak ’24 (CAHNR) recently joined our team as the State 4-H Program Coordinator. Matt is from Bethlehem, Connecticut, and brings a wealth of leadership experience in 4-H and FFA to the role. Additionally, Matt is a proud UConn and CAHNR graduate; he earned a bachelor of science in animal science and is completing a […]
Yogurt, Kefir and Other Choices at the Supermarket
Yogurt is one of the most popular dairy products among Americans. The yogurt section in the supermarket continues to expand, and the many choices can be confusing. Nutritionally, yogurt is a good source of protein, calcium, and potassium. Most yogurts contain added sweeteners; however, it is usually sucrose, artificial flavors, and colors. Kefir is another fermented dairy product made by adding bacterial and yeast cultures to milk. Let’s look at some yogurt and kefir options in the dairy aisle.
Strategic Deworming and Preventing Reinfestation
As spring and warm weather approaches, horse owners typically consider deworming. Recent discussion has centered around how horse owners should switch from rotational deworming–or time-based deworming with the same drug–to strategic deworming also known as targeted or selective deworming. Following that will be consideration of ways to prevent reinfestation of horses that were dewormed.
Vaccination For Optimizing Equine Health and Performance
For horse owners, vaccination is a part of the routine maintenance of the animal’s health. Vaccination can prevent disease, reduce the severity of disease, and minimize the spread of disease. With one horse, the focus is on disease prevention. With more than one horse, the focus is on reducing the impact of an outbreak.
Attention Backyard Poultry Owners!
Attention Backyard Poultry Owners! Following proper biosecurity and food safety guidelines is key to keeping your flock and food safe. While Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) is a serious concern, it is not a food safety issue as long as you follow recommended precautions. ✅ Always cook poultry and eggs to a safe internal temperature (165°F). ✅ […]
Meet Nicole Davidow
Nicole Davidow recently joined our team as an Outreach Assistant for the Vegetable and Hemp Extension Program and is working alongside Shuresh Ghimire, our Vegetable Extension Specialist at the Tolland Extension Office. She is originally from Southington and received a bachelor’s degree in International Studies from Fairfield University, focusing on humanitarian crises, social justice issues, […]
Meet Sara Tomis
Sara Tomis is our new assistant extension educator for One Health – Agriculture and Community Engagement. Sara is originally from Preston, Connecticut and earned a bachelor of science in agricultural education and outreach from UConn CAHNR and a master of science in agricultural education and communication with a specialization in Extension from the University of […]
Meet Danielle Fisher
Danielle Fisher joined UConn Extension in our New London County office as an educational program assistant during the fall of 2024. She is from Willington, and earned her bachelor of science in animal science from UConn. “I have been familiar with the Extension Service due to my degree from the College of Agriculture, Health, and […]
Fact sheet explains issue of PFAS in New England shellfish
A new fact sheet created by the Connecticut, Rhode Island and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute Sea grant programs explores the issue of so-called “forever chemicals” in New England shellfish. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, commonly referred to as PFAS, are a family of thousands of different manufactured chemicals. PFAS have been in use since the 1940s […]
Invasive Plant Factsheet Common mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is an invasive perennial frequently found in high elevation areas, disturbed habitats, meadows, valleys, and roadsides. Laboratory studies have found the presence of chemicals that could potentially suppress the growth of nearby plants.
FSMA Final Agricultural Rule on Pre-harvest and Post-harvest
This factsheet outlines the update on Subpart E pre-harvest agricultural water releases in 2024 and requirements for post-harvest activities, according to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule, published in 2015. Pre-harvest agricultural water refers to water used during growing activities, such as for irrigation, and crop protection sprays.
Business of Farming Online Course
The first cohort for our Business of Farming hybrid class is starting Jan 3- right as the new year kicks off! If you want to get the business side of your farm to feel a little more concrete, this should help! So why should you sign up for the Business of Farming? Even if you […]
New Online Certificate – FARM RISK MANAGEMENT
New Online Certificate – FARM RISK MANAGEMENT: In-Depth Strategies for Effective Farm Risk Management This unique program from UConn’s College of Agriculture, Health and Natural Resources focuses on critical topics for the agriculture industry, farm risk management. Farm risk management involves understanding and mitigating factors that can impact agricultural operations, such as climate change, pest management, […]
Some Regulations and Codes Related to Commercial Greenhouse Construction in Connecticut
Under Section 1-1(q) of Connecticut General Statutes, greenhouses and other structures, used primarily for the production of horticultural commodities, are considered agriculture and farming. This fact sheet explores some Regulations and Codes related to commercial greenhouses in Connecticut.
The Health Benefits of Chickpeas
Americans have dramatically increased the use of chickpeas in their diets, over the past few years, particularly in the form of hummus. Chickpeas have so many nutritional and health benefits – adding them to the diet is a big nutritional boost. They are inexpensive and versatile to add to many dishes. This article looks at chickpeas and their health benefits.
Pasta Alternatives
Pasta is one food that many Americans use as a daily, weeknight and weekend, staple. It is easy to prepare and well-liked by everyone, including kids. A decade ago, the only options were regular and whole wheat. Now options abound and the choices can be confusing to consumers. Which pastas are the most nutritious? Pasta has often been maligned because of its carbohydrate content. Many fad and Keto diets recommend avoiding traditional white pasta, due to the refined grains and carbohydrate content. However, pasta remains a key component of many healthy eating patterns.
Say “Neigh” to Negativity: How Horses Can Help Us Find Lifelong Happiness
Article by Jenifer Nadeau As people that love horses, horses make us happy! This seems like a simplistic statement but when the pandemic hit I suddenly realized how much horses are a part of my own happiness. In the early days of the pandemic we weren’t really allowed to be on campus but I would […]
Rainfall and Root Rots in Commercial Fruit Operations
In orchards, excessive rainfall can lead to oversaturated soils, flooding, and standing water. As a result, observations of plant disease caused by soilborne pathogens often coincide. The excessive free moisture in water-logged soils is problematic for many reasons, the first being stress brought on by the plant roots not having access to oxygen.
Seniors Eating Well: Empowering Through Nutrition Education
As we age, maintaining a healthy diet becomes increasingly important to support overall wellness and quality of life. UConn Extension’s Seniors Eating Well program addresses this need by empowering older adults with the knowledge and resources to make informed dietary choices. Through engaging workshops, hands-on learning, and evidence-based education, this program supports Connecticut’s senior population […]
Wind Loads on Greenhouses
In most sections of the United States, the ‘wind load’ is the greatest force that a greenhouse will be subject to. Wind load can occur from hurricanes, tornados, or a sudden squall from a passing weather front. The wind forces that act on the greenhouse are influenced by numerous factors, including the basic wind speed, building orientation and exposure, height and shape of the greenhouse, and doors or vents that may be open at the time of the wind occurrence.
Getting Zoning Commission Approval for a Greenhouse
Whether expanding a greenhouse operation, or building a new one, zoning approval is required. In some communities, especially smaller ones, this may be easy to obtain. In others, a considerable expenditure in time and money may be required. This usually depends on the level of preparedness (including paperwork), the complexity of the regulations and the feelings of neighbors toward the business.
How Horse Enthusiasts Can Help Protect Water Bodies
Time on the water, either with or without horses, is often restorative and a fun way to cool off. A horse owner’s thoughts may turn to dreams of riding on the beach or swimming with horses. However, here are some considerations of horses around water bodies.
UConn EFNEP Food Demonstration with CitySeed Farmers Market at Dixwell Q-House
UConn Extension’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) recently re-established connections with the CitySeed Farmer’s Market at the New Haven Dixwell Q-House to provide healthy recipe ideas. This year, CitySeed completed its 20th Anniversary of providing Connecticut farm produce to New Haven residents. EFNEP nutrition educators offer ideas about how to prepare farm market […]
Equine Management: To Blanket or Not to Blanket
To blanket or not to blanket? Some scientists from Norway decided to give horses the chance to answer that question. In a paper entitled Horses can learn to use symbols to communicate their preferences, scientists taught 23 horses three different symbols that either meant ‘take blanket off’, ‘put blanket on’ or ‘no change’.
Meet Qian (Rachel) Lei-Parent
Qian (Rachel) Lei-Parent recently joined our Middlesex County Extension Center and UConn Center for Land Use Education and Research (CLEAR) as an assistant extension geospatial educator. Qian has both of her B.S and M.S in Land Resources Management from Wuhan University, China. She received her Ph.D in natural resources from University of Connecticut focusing on […]
Enjoying the Winter with Your Horse
One of the benefits of living in places that experience true winter is the ability to enjoy the changing seasons. By being properly prepared, there is no reason not to enjoy winter horseback riding. Here are a few tips for being prepared, using the letters from the the song Let It Snow for inspiration.
Meet MacKenzie White
MacKenzie White joined UConn Extension as our Diversified Livestock Field Based Extension Specialist on November 1, 2024. MacKenzie grew up in Shapleigh, Maine and earned her associates of applied animal science from the Ratcliffe Hicks School of Agriculture at UConn, a bachelor of science in agriculture and natural resources with a minor in animal science […]
We’re Having a Brush Fire Season – Please be Aware
By Tom Worthley Once again in today’s weather forecast, no significant precipitation is anticipated for the next week or so. Warm temperatures and breezy conditions will prevail. We have experienced such conditions before and we tend to go about our daily activities without giving it much thought. Notable now, however, as opposed to other times […]
Lifecycle of Single Use Plastics
The number of single-use plastics that have been produced has increased alarmingly in recent years, with dire effects for wildlife, ecosystems, and human health everywhere. The cycle of plastics includes manufacturing, use, and disposal of these practical yet environmentally hazardous materials. This fact sheet attempts to educate the public on the harmful consequences of single-use plastics and the pressing need for change. and is useful for readers interested in information the use of single-use plastics, as well as help create awareness on single-use plastic effects on the health of animals and people.
Understanding Spring Frosts: Critical Temperatures, Freeze Injury, and Frost Protection in Connecticut Fruit Orchards
Late Spring frosts remain one of the most concerning and devastating weather events for fruit producers in the Northeast U.S. With a shifting climate and increasing weather instability, it is important to know what factors influence Spring frosts. Here, critical temperatures, freeze injury and frost protection are explored to help prepare for the future, keeping in mind that extreme weather events like this will likely continue to occur.
Low-Cost Emergency Supply Kit: Assemble Your Own Kit for Less
Emergency and weather-related events can lead to everything from power outages to evacuation, and preparing ahead of time can help reduce stress. Gathering supplies beforehand also ensures collecting the potentially wide range of needs of various household members. Although pre-assembled emergency supply kits are commercially available to purchase, a supply kit tailored to specific needs can be assembled inexpensively.
Managing Water Use at Home During Drought in Connecticut
Despite the fact that we get about 48 inches of precipitation annually, we still can experience periods that are classified as drought here. Although it can be said that drought is part of our natural cycle here in Connecticut, higher global temperatures have impacted our precipitation patterns. Over the last century, our annual precipitation totals […]