Grass and reproductively sound bulls are key ingredients for a successful beef operation.

Both have been topics of discussion this past week at the Extension Office and both are timely fall month topics.

In early September it was noted, in this column, that fall armyworms would very likely become a problem in pastures and hay meadows if moisture conditions continued to improve.

Sure enough, outbreaks of the yellow striped-pale green worms with big appetites have been reported across the lower Coastal Bend.

The favorable weather conditions combined with the female armyworm moths reproductive ability has resulted in a population explosion. Making matters worse is the fact that outbreaks are even larger when rainfall follows an extended drought.

Having gone through a lengthy period with little grazing and limited hay supplies, the prospect of losing forage to a worm is reprehensible.

Economic loss in hay meadows and pastures is likely if three, four, or more of the pest are present per square foot. Early detection is the key for protecting forage resources. Control is most effective when fall armyworms are small.

Newly hatched larvae are extremely tiny and will often go unnoticed. Therefore, close inspection is necessary to spot young larvae. Armyworms grow quickly and 10 days after hatching larvae will measure 1 1/4 inches long. It is when they reach this large size that 80% of their total food intake is consumed.

Unfortunately, by the time the pest becomes 1 1/4 inches long and can be easily spotted, the damage is usually done. Insecticide treatment is effective in controlling outbreaks of fall armyworms if the pest is caught early in its life cycle. Close inspection for early detection is a must.

Fall is also bull buying season for many beef producers and a new set of regulations is in place to stop the spread of Trichomoniasis in Texas. Trichomoniasis, commonly called Trich, is a venereal disease of cattle that causes infertility and abortion. No effective vaccine or treatment exists for bulls. The disease has been more prevalent in western states, but now is showing up in herds across the Midwest and Texas.

With considerable industry input, the Texas Animal Health Commission has issued new rules designed to address the Trich issue. Initiated this past spring, April 1, 2009, out of state bulls must now meet specific requirements and/or be tested in order to enter Texas.

Beginning January 1, 2010 a set of requirements will also be in place for Texas bulls offered for sale, lease or exchange for breeding purposes.

Complete information on the new regulations aimed at controlling Trich can be accessed at http://www.tahc. state.tx.us/.

Kleberg-Kenedy beef producers are encouraged to visit the site and become familiar with the new rules designed to stop the spread of Trichomoniasis in Texas.