June Newsletter

Extension Interns Gain Real-World Experience
and Serve Local Communities

NC State Extension announced that Mackenzie Pritchard is completing an Extension internship this summer with the Burke County Center.

An Extension summer intern works with Extension personnel to deliver hands-on, educational programs. Job shadowing and mentoring help interns learn about the mission and work of North Carolina Cooperative Extension.

“Extension makes a positive difference in the community every day. We provide educational programs that connect communities with research-based information. Our internship program is another way we help prepare students for challenging and rewarding careers in food, agriculture, natural resources, and family and consumer sciences” said Dr. Richard Bonanno, Associate Dean of the NC State College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Director of NC State Extension.

Pritchard is a senior from Western Carolina University majoring in Social Work, and is a native of Morganton.

Japanese Beetles BOLO
Matt Rodriguez, Extension Agent, Horticulture

It’s almost time for Japanese beetles to be returning in early June. If you are not familiar with these invasive species, they are the emerald iridescent bugs that eat away at plants in most of the eastern US. The insect begins its life cycle among 40 to 60 eggs in the soil and in about two weeks (provided the right conditions: wet and warm) the grubs that hatch can be a pest on some lawns. Japanese beetle grubs are not normally dangerous to home lawns, so no need to worry in that regard. Those interested can utilize our White Grubs in Turf webpage from NC State Extension Turf Files for more information on best practices to control these species.

Japanese beetles (adults) do not discriminate when it comes to food and can damage various plants. They target fruits and vegetables as well as leaves and flowers. Some favorite menu items include hibiscus, roses, crape myrtles, and linden. These insects munch away at the leaves causing a “skeletonization” effect. While most established ornamentals are not at risk to any long term issues health wise. The look of these “lacy” leaves can be unappealing and frustrating to homeowners and avid growers.

There are some treatments available to help deter and manage Japanese beetles. As always the best option is to plan smartly and choose resistant varieties of plants for your space. It’s important to remember that the adults are not looking to only eat. They are looking for other beetles. If you see some starting to congregate on your plant then just shake or hose them off. This decreases the likelihood of other beetles coming and damaging the plant. Japanese beetle traps can be used, however they require maintenance and should be emptied often (one to two days). Be mindful that these traps can do more harm than good as they are an attractant, so they will bring Japanese beetles to your yard.

Short term applications of Sevin and other insecticides can be utilized but must be reapplied after 1 to 2 weeks. Be mindful of pollinators when using insecticides and remember the label is LAW!!

As always do not hesitate to call our office at 828-764-9480 for more information.

Stocking Rate
Damon Pollard, Extension Agent, Livestock

Stocking rates are positively related to forage health. Overstocking stresses forage
stands and eventually leads to low producing pastures.

When talking about pasture stocking rates, we can lump all livestock together by
converting them into the concept of an animal unit. An animal unit is based on the
beef cow and her calf, which is one animal unit. The bull is also one animal unit, as
is one horse. Sheep and goats, due to their small size, take 6-8 head to equal one
animal unit.

It generally takes 2-3 acres to support one animal unit in hay and pasture. If hay is
cut elsewhere and brought in it reduces the acres needed. Acreage needed can also
be reduced through improved pasture management and improved forage varieties.
A really good manager can support one animal unit on an acre and a half.
Stocking rates as high as 2 animal units per acre are present in Burke county, and
not even weeds can produce in this setting. Two acres per animal unit allows
producers to mitigate drought and reduce hay feeding days as more grazing days
are available and forage could be stockpiled.

Pasture management is more complex than just putting the right number of head on
the right number of acres, however, getting the stocking rates right is basic to any
good management system.

Encouraging Kids to Explore the Kitchen
Brandi Silver, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences

Summer break is almost here, and kids everywhere are ready for fun and freedom! As they enjoy their break, it’s a perfect opportunity to let them practice making their own meals and snacks. This not only gives them autonomy with their food choices but also helps develop self-sufficiency and encourages them to explore new foods.

Involving kids in the kitchen is crucial for their development. It fosters a sense of independence as they learn to prepare their own meals, making them less reliant on parents or caregivers. This autonomy with food choices can boost their confidence and encourage them to try new and healthy foods. Additionally, cooking together provides a practical, hands-on learning experience that enhances their math, reading, and fine motor skills.

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