UMN Extension - Wright, McLeod and Meeker Counties

06/17/2026

Join UMN Extension for the Irrigation and Nutrient Management Field Day at the Sand Plain Research Farm in Becker, MN! Register at z.umn.edu/SPRF26reg

06/15/2026

Please be aware and arm yourself with knowledge!

Recent cases of New World screwworm (NWS) in southern Texas serve as a reminder for livestock owners to stay informed about emerging animal health concerns and continue routine wound monitoring and care.

While important, the situation is not currently urgent for Minnesota.

State agencies and the University of Minnesota have interdisciplinary teams monitoring the situation carefully. Key information for Minnesota livestock owners and veterinarians includes:
• NWS does not overwinter in Minnesota's climate.
• Spread to Minnesota can occur from animals traveling from affected areas.
• Identifying and treating a NWS infection early is key to limiting fly numbers.
• Notify a state animal health official if you suspect NWS.
• Suspected flies and larvae will be forwarded to the National Veterinary Services Lab within 24 hours for evaluation.

What can livestock owners do?
• Stay aware and informed on the ongoing situation.
• Carefully check your livestock, horses or animals for slow-healing or worsening wounds, signs of discomfort, and maggots in wounds or body openings (e.g., navel or v***a), especially if traveling to/from NWS-affected areas.
• Contact your veterinarian right away if you suspect NWS.

Learn more at z.umn.edu/bdha

06/11/2026

We are thrilled to serve the on Hutchinson Area Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Agribusiness Committee! Great work to everyone who helped make Dairy Day happen!

06/04/2026

Join UMN Extension on Wednesday, June 10th for a Sheep Producer Spotlight!

Listen to new sheep producers Matti Boomgaarden and Kyle Blume as they share the realities of building a sheep operation from the ground up during their first few years in the industry. Through honest conversation and real-world experiences, they will discuss the challenges, successes, and lessons learned while navigating flock management, lambing season, facilities, record keeping, marketing, and day-to-day decision making as beginning producers.

Preregistration is required. Register here: z.umn.edu/GSBoom

06/03/2026

Check out the June edition of Tri-County Crop News at z.umn.edu/TriCountyCropNews for updates on crop scouting tools, soybean pests, and upcoming events!

Tri-County Crop News

05/28/2026

Choppers are running and alfalfa harvest is underway! Go to z.umn.edu/AlfalfaHarvestAlert to view this week's Alfalfa Harvest Alert forage quality results to help gauge if alfalfa in your area is in your ideal harvest window. Get the most up-to-date information with biweekly email alerts by signing up at z.umn.edu/QuadCountySignup

05/27/2026

Join UMN Extension for a Meat Goat Field Day June 3rd 5pm-7pm.

All questions can be directed to Dana Adams at [email protected].

05/22/2026

Have questions about swine health, nutrition, management or day-to-day challenges? If so, check out the "Ask a Swine Specialist" Q & A webinar!

Register today at: z.umn.edu/AskSwineSpecialist

Join us on Monday June 1st for our interactive webinar! Open for all pig farmers, swine exhibitors, and backyard pig enthusiasts to get questions answered.

05/20/2026

The latest data is in! Go to z.umn.edu/AlfalfaHarvestAlert to view results from this week's samples. Check every Tuesday and Friday evening for the most up-to-date information or sign up for email alerts at z.umn.edu/QuadCountySignup

05/15/2026

Proud to be a part of this great event!