UF IFAS Indian River County Extension

🚨Attention Livestock Owners!🚨

The USDA recently confirmed the detection of New World Screwworm in Texas. While this detection does not mean the pest is established throughout the state, it serves as an important reminder for livestock owners to remain vigilant.

New World Screwworm larvae feed on living tissue and can cause serious injury to livestock, wildlife, pets, and other warm-blooded animals. Producers should continue to:

👉Monitor animals regularly for wounds.
👉Treat wounds promptly.
👉Watch for wounds that fail to heal normally or appear to worsen.
👉Report suspicious cases to animal health officials or your veterinarian.

We will continue to monitor developments and will share additional information as it becomes available. If you have questions or observe animal health concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us.

🌪️ Hurricane season is here, and preparation is key! 🏡 Ensure you're ready for whatever comes your way by checking out some UF/IFAS blog posts on hurricane season prep:

1️⃣ Hurricane Season Preparations: (https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/indianriverco/2023/05/15/hurricane-season-begins-june-1/)
2️⃣ Pools and Hurricanes: (https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/indianriverco/2024/05/14/pools-and-hurricanes/)
3️⃣Hurricane Preparation for Farmers:(https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/brevardco/2026/05/19/hurricane-preparedness-for-florida-farms/)

Get expert tips and advice to keep your home, family, and pool safe during the storm season. Don’t wait - start your preparations today!

🍯 Ever wondered how honey makes it from the hive to the jar?

Whether you’re a backyard beekeeper, thinking about getting started, or just curious about how it all works, this hands-on class is for you.

🗓️ Tuesday, June 30th
⏰9 AM - 3 PM
🏢UF IFAS Extension Orange County

🔗https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cflag-honey-harvesting-workshop-tickets-1981594087258?aff=ebdsoporgprofile

Indian River County 4-H was well represented at the 4-H SE District Board 4-H/FFA MEET where members learned about 4-H competitions such as the Food Challenge and Tailgating, leadership and teamwork activities, crafts, and tons of 4-H FUN! Enjoy pics of our 4-H members in action!🍀

Thank you to the 4-H SE District Board and all volunteers for your time and effort toward this fabulous program. 🍀

🚫 It's time to stop fertilizing! 🚫
A friendly reminder that the fertilizer application ban goes into effect today and remains in place through September 30th. During this time, fertilizers containing nitrogen and/or phosphorus cannot be applied on residential properties. Refraining from fertilizer use throughout the summer helps keep our local waterways, including the Indian River Lagoon, healthy!

How is your summer garden holding up so far? 🌱☀️

This time of year in Florida, heat, rain, pests, and nutrient issues can all start showing up at once. Keep an eye out for:
• Yellowing leaves
• Wilting during the day
• Chewed foliage
• Signs of fungus after heavy rain

Need help identifying a problem? We're here to help - give us a call, drop a picture down below, or stop by our office!

We're partnering up with UF IFAS Brevard County Extension Service to offer a Pasture Management Workshop on June 8th! 🐴🌱🐄

Whether you're managing a few acres or a larger operation, this workshop will cover practical tips to help keep your pasture healthy, productive, and thriving.

Check out the flyer for details and register at the link below!
🔗https://PastureManagementClass.eventbrite.com

Heading out on the Indian River Lagoon this Memorial Day? 🌊☀️ Keep your 👀 on seagrass!

Eyes on Seagrass is a citizen science program helping researchers track seagrass throughout the lagoon. While you’re boating, fishing, kayaking, or enjoying the water, you can report seagrass sightings right from your phone! 📱

Your observations help scientists better understand the health and recovery of the lagoon’s seagrass habitats. 🌿

Learn more and submit sightings here: bit.ly/ReportSeaGrass

In observance of Memorial Day, the UF/IFAS Extension Indian River County office will be closed on Monday, May 25th. As we enjoy the holiday weekend, we remember and honor the brave women and men who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. ❤️🤍💙

We will reopen with normal business hours on Tuesday, May 26th.