Alabama Cooperative Extension Forage Focus Program

The US Department of Agriculture has confirmed the presence of New World screwworm in Zavala County, Texas, which is about 50 miles from the US-Mexico border. This is the first detection of this pest in the United States during this outbreak.

Devastating to warm-blooded animals, the New World screwworm is a live-animal health concern, not a food safety or quality issue. As a preventative measure, livestock producers are encouraged to implement routine fly control in their herds.

If you have a suspected infestation, immediately contact Alabama State Veterinarian Dr. Tony Frazier at (334) 240-7253.

For more information about the New World screwworm, read the press release from the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries at https://agi.alabama.gov/animalindustries/2026/06/usda-confirms-new-world-screwworm-in-texas/.

It's not every day our team gets to talk small ruminants... This event in North Alabama this week was a treat! Having good grazing management practices in place is essential for all ruminants, no matter their size!

Dr. Leanne Dillard was recognized with the 2025 Auburn University Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach. A new video highlighting her commitement to the pastures of Alabama has recently been shared and we couldn't be more proud!

Dr Leanne Dillard Receives 2025 Auburn University Award for Excellence in Faculty Outreach Enjoy the videos and music you love, upload original content, and share it all with friends, family, and the world on YouTube.

Did you know the state of Alabama spans an estimated 33,478,560 acres?! That's a lot of land to cover!

Thankfully our Animal Science and Forages Extension Agents are located across the entire state. So, any time you have questions, or are looking to make a change, or need help with something on your operation, please know one of our local Extension agents is there to help!

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln released the latest U.S. Drought Monitor this morning showing widespread drought across most of the country. The Southeast has been especially hard hit with drought severity growing across most states.

https://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/CurrentMap.aspx

The entirety of Alabama is now experiencing some level of drought, with the most severe cases impacting the Wiregrass area.

Good news is there does appear to be some sort of hope for relief. The Climate Prediction Center's latest 6-10 Day Precipitation Outlook shows slightly above normal chances for rain for April 21st through the 25th.

In the meantime, you can find additional drought recourses through Alabama Drought Reach on their website: https://aaes.auburn.edu/wrc/extension-outreach2/al-drought-reach/

Always a proud moment when our graduate students represent us so well!

As a graduate student studying ruminant nutrition and forages at Auburn Univeristy, Duncan McSorley is working alongside Alabama Extension's animal sciences and forages team to provide research-based solutions to Alabama cattle producers. He is gaining valuable experience as he helps the team reserach alternative forages for cattle that can fill nutritional gaps caused by seasonal or economic factors.

“We are looking to see how we can grow the plants, if the cattle want to eat them and how the animal performs after,” McSorley said. “The goal is to confidently recommend plant species that will benefit producers in many ways. We want them to see improved animal and soil health at a lower cost.”

Read more about his experience and work here: https://www.aces.edu/go/6216

Happy Extension Week, Alabama!

Be sure to join us for a webinar highlighting Women In Alabama Agriculture on April 15th at 2:00 PM CT.

We will be hearing from Dr. Kelli Russell about the legacy and impact of women in agriculture and from other Extension specialists and agents on how Extension can provide resources for female farmers! Come to learn what we can do to help your farm and legacy.

Please be sure to register at this link: https://www.aces.edu/event/extension-week-webinar-women-in-ag/

We look forward to seeing you then!

Northwest Alabama producers, mark your calendars! 📅🌱

You're not going to want to miss out on the opportunity to attend this Hay Production Field Day taking place in Lawrence County-Alabama Extension on May 12th!

Join Alabama Extension agents and specialists for a day packed with research-backed hay production tips and hands-on experience with hay equipment.

🚜 Register today to reserve your spot: https://www.aces.edu/event/hay-production-field-day/