November Newsletter - Burke County

Leptospirosis In Cattle
Damon Pollard, Extension Agent, Livestock

Producers sometimes call about a stillborn calf, or a calf that has been aborted, and ask what is wrong and what do I do? I usually tell them it is a good idea to take it to the Diagnostic Lab, for an autopsy, to determine the cause. One of the most common causes is Lepto.
Leptospirosis, or “Lepto”, is a bacterial disease affecting cattle, which is carried in the urine of wild animals, especially rodents. Leptospirosis may be transmitted to cattle by many infected species—rats and other rodents, raccoons, skunks, foxes, opossums, dogs and possibly even deer. The disease can also be transmitted to people, and swimming in waters frequented by infected animals should be avoided. The bacteria can survive in water for up to 150 days and so can show up even in a closed herd where no outside animals are brought in.

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Illuminating Diabetes: Empower, Educate, Perservere
Brandi Silver, Extension Agent, FCS

November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a designated time to educate Americans on diabetes prevention and management. By embracing a wholesome diet, sustaining a consistent exercise regimen, and prioritizing early screenings, we have the power to limit the effects of this condition and promote overall well-being.

Approximately 37 million Americans contend with this condition, which emerges when blood glucose levels are elevated. Diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves and is linked to some types of cancer.

Research shows that taking proactive steps shortly after your diagnosis can aid in preventing diabetes-related health issues. A recent diagnosis of diabetes or prediabetes doesn’t need to leave you feeling overwhelmed. You’re not expected to tackle everything simultaneously. Begin with focusing on your Diabetes ABCs.

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Bringing Houseplants in for Winter
Taylor Campbell, Extension Agent Horticulture

As the weather cools down and the days grow shorter, it’s time to prepare your beloved houseplants for the transition from the great outdoors to the cozy confines of your home. Bringing your plants indoors can be a delicate process, but with the right care and attention, you can ensure a smooth and successful transition. This guide provides you with essential steps to follow, from pruning and pest control to temperature and lighting adjustments, so your houseplants can thrive throughout the colder months. Let’s dive into the details to make sure your green companions are ready for the indoor season.

To begin, it’s crucial to start with a thorough pruning. Remove all dead or dying foliage, as well as any unwanted debris that may have accumulated on your plants while they were outside.

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The History of Veterans Day
US Department of Veteran's Affairs

World War I – known at the time as “The Great War” – officially ended when the Treaty of Versailles was signed on June 28, 1919, in the Palace of Versailles outside the town of Versailles, France. However, fighting ceased seven months earlier when an armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.”
Veterans Day continues to be observed on November 11, regardless of what day of the week on which it falls. The restoration of the observance of Veterans Day to November 11 not only preserves the historical significance of the date, but helps focus attention on the important purpose of Veterans Day: A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

Remember to thank a veteran on November 11th !

Farm City Week celebrated in November
Agricultural Review - NCDA&CS

November is typically a time when we pause to give thanks for the many blessings we have in life. It also is a time to be reminded of the connection between farms and the foods we enjoy during National Farm-City Week.

Many communities across the state hold special events in recognition of the contributions of their agricultural communities.

Agriculture and agribusiness is North Carolina’s leading industry at $84 billion, and it employs more than 686,000 people.

While agriculture and agribusiness is good for our economy, it also provides us with food, fiber and fuel.

Be sure to thank a farmer this November!

Our office will be celebrating Farm City Week on November 28th with a Farm City Breakfast. For more information, contact our office at 828-764-9480.

4-H November Calendar
Nicki Carpenter, Extension Agent 4-H Youth Development

Monday, November 6 - Teen Council Meeting
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Ages 13-18

Tuesday, November 7 - Science Fair Workshop
8:00 am - 3:30 pm
ANY Youth in grades 3-12 may register to attend
$10 Lunch & snack provided. Experiments and displays provided.

Tuesday, November 14 - 4-H Foundations Adult Training
Call our office at 828-764-9480 for more information or to register.

Tuesday, November 21 - Discovery Day
10:00 - 11:00 am
Call our office at 828-764-9480 to register. Space is limited.

Celebrate National Adopt a Senior Dog Month
Brandi Silver, Extension Agent, FCS

I love autumn's crisp air and falling leaves, but there's something heartwarming about November that extends beyond pumpkins and apple picking. It's National Adopt a Senior Dog Month, a time dedicated to our four-legged friends who have aged gracefully, yet often find themselves in need of a loving forever home.

Last January, I adopted a senior dog named Maxwell. Maxwell was abandoned at a vet’s office and was transferred to a local shelter. He was shuffled to a few foster homes and back to the shelter in hopes of being adopted. This fragile guy was very scared and was just surviving. I knew he needed a home, a place to belong for his golden years so I brought him home. He became very sick the first week and was given only a few weeks to live. My family prepared to give him a safe, loving place to spend his final days but he gave us so much more.