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The frost seeding method allows seeds to be inter-seeded into undisturbed soils by scattering seed on top of the ground. The freezing and thawing action of the soil works the seeds into the soil where they can germinate. In Kentucky, the ideal time to frost seed is between February 10 and March 1, with mid-February preferred. It is important to consider what forage species can be successfully frost seeded. Seeding red and white clover is recommended using this method. Seeding nitrogen-fixing legumes into existing grass stands will reduce nitrogen fertilizer costs and can increase pasture yields and quality. Frost seeding legumes can be very successful when performed correctly using the...

It seems like we see the typical donuts and pastries at every work meeting we attend. This can be trouble for individuals trying to maintain a healthy diet, considering a single donut or pastry could contain 300 calories or more. Next time, try serving some healthier food options. Below are some suggestions for healthier snacks for any time of day. · Pass the water. Be sure to have cups on hand for a water fountain or bottled water as a beverage option. Bypass the sugar-sweetened beverages including soda and fruit juices. · Washed, fresh fruit such as apples, bananas and grapes require very little preparation. Fruit trays with sliced fruit and...

Last week in this space I commented on a 1935 football program that was found under a desk at Corbin High School and shown to me by Athletic Director Andrew Roark. One reader commented, “I sure wish it had been a 1936 program.” The reason for his comment was explained by Coach Nick Denes who coached both the football and basketball teams. He wrote an article in the program that let them know better times were coming. ”During the last two seasons Corbin basketball teams have been below par, but this year with the addition of the two Cluggish boys, the Redhounds should swing back into championship class.” And indeed they did...

A few observations: • Our front-page story today about the case against Keith Edward Mason, and the recent decision by the Kentucky Court of Appeals to dismiss his indictment altogether, is must-read stuff. If you want to see the entire decision — and I suggest you definitely do so — it is included online for our subscribers at thenewsjournal.net/. In it is a pretty troubling narrative regarding prosecutorial misconduct, purposeful deception and how the grand jury process in this case went awry. A local trial judge heard some of the same arguments as the Court of Appeals, but thought nothing of them. Mr. Mason got no relief here in Whitley County. Is...

Soon you’ll be receiving seed catalogs for the 2017 vegetable-growing season. While listening to the cold wind blow outside, what a comfort it is to think about spring and summer and planning your garden. To make the most of your garden, every aspiring gardener should follow seven steps to have a successful gardening season. 1. Plan your garden on paper before you begin. 2. Select a good gardening site that has full of sun for at least eight hours each day, relatively level, well-drained, close to a water source and not shaded. 3. Prepare the soil properly and add fertilizer and lime according to soil-test recommendations. 4. Plan only as large a garden as...

The World Health Organization defines good health as a “state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, rather than merely the absence of disease or infirmity.” Having good health takes place on many levels. Holistic health is a concept that addresses all aspects of good health as an integrated whole. A holistic lifestyle aims to achieve balance of mind, body and spirit to improve quality of life. In the quest for optimal health, holistic health also takes into account accepting one’s personal responsibility for good health, health education, preventive care, nutrition, exercise and mental relaxation. Holistic health believes that a person has multiple parts and if one part is not working...

Spring Calving Cow Herd • Start cows on the high magnesium mineral supplement soon.  Consider protein supplementation if hay is less than 10% crude protein.  If cows are thin, begin energy (grain) supplementation now. • Consider vaccinating the cows to help prevent calf scours. • Keep replacement heifer calves gaining enough to reach their “target” breeding weight (65% mature weight) and to be cycling by the start of the spring breeding season. • Study the performance of last year’s calf crop and plan for improvement.  Plan your breeding program and consider a better herd sire(s).  Select herd sires which will allow you to meet your goals and be willing to pay for superior...

As winter gets into full swing, remember fire and carbon monoxide poisoning are real concerns that come with staying warm. According to the National Fire Protection Association, between 2009 and 2013, U.S. fire departments responded each year to an average of 56,000 home structure fires that involved heating equipment. Space heaters are the most common type of heating equipment involved in home fires, accounting for 40 percent of all fires, and more importantly, 84 percent of non-firefighter deaths. In addition, carbon monoxide poisoning is a serious risk. From 2009 to 2011, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 49 people died each year from heating-equipment-related carbon monoxide poisoning. Because carbon monoxide is...

There are many over-the-counter products that help with coughs that typically occur during this time of year.  It is not uncommon to hear the suggestion of drinking warm tea or warm water with lemon and honey when a person has a sore throat.  A study has found that the honey may act as cough relief as well.  For children in the study, 2 teaspoons of honey seemed to help reduce night coughing. The use of honey was compared to a common cough medicine ingredient.  Because honey is so easily available it may be a good alternative for some people. Pleased remember however, that honey should never be given to a...

Not too soon to think about calving season Calving season will be here before we know it. Providing sound management during that time can mean more live calves, which translates to more profit for you. It is important to have a short calving period to allow frequent observation and assistance if needed. Some specific things a producer can do to limit calf loss include: Separate first-calf heifers from mature cows. Calving difficulty can run as high as 30 to 40 percent for 2-year-old heifers compared to just 3 percent for mature cows. Place them in a small, accessible pasture near a corral where assistance can be given if needed. Provide a clean area...