ENERGY SERIES: What about the Air Conditioning System?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 19:50:25 -0400

As you begin the process of selecting the most efficient air conditioning system for your home, investigate the critical issues of system size, placement, installation, and contractor experience. Your goal is to obtain an efficient system by: sizing the system for the specific cooling load of your home; selecting and properly installing the thermostats or controls; designing a ductwork system to deliver the correct amount of conditioned air to each space; and sealing and insulating all ductwork.

ENERGY SERIES: What About Using Ceiling Fans?

Fri, 03 May 2024 21:55:04 -0400

Ceiling fans create a breeze, so room occupants feel cooler and more comfortable. With a ceiling fan running, you can raise the thermostat setting by 2 to 4 degrees during the cooling season with no reduction in comfort. Increasing the room temperature by even two degrees can cut your cooling costs 4 to 6%.

ENERGY SERIES: What About the Ductwork?

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 16:23:22 -0400

Air distribution or duct systems are designed to supply rooms with air that is “conditioned”—that is, heated or cooled by the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment—and to recirculate or return the same volume of air back to the HVAC equipment. Your duct system has two main air transfer systems: 1) supply, and 2) return. The supply side delivers the conditioned air to the home through individual room registers. The return side picks up inside air and delivers it to the air handler of your central system where heat and moisture are either removed or added and then delivered to the supply side. All of the air drawn into the return duct(s) is conditioned and should be delivered back through the supply registers.

Energy Series: What about Fluorescent Lighting?

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:37:51 -0500

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Heating System?

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 14:44:28 -0400

The efficiency of a gas (natural or propane) or oil furnace is measured by the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE), which describes the heat produced from the energy used. This rating takes into consideration losses from pilot lights, start-up, and stopping. For example, a furnace with an AFUE rating of 80 converts 80% of the fuel it burns into usable heat. New furnaces usually rate in the mid-70s to low 80s, whereas older furnaces will be in the 50s or 60s. ENERGY STAR® qualified oil and gas furnaces have annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings of 83% and 90%, or higher, making them up to 15% more efficient than standard models. Unlike the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) and Heating Season Performance Factor (HSPF) ratings, the AFUE does not consider the unit’s electricity use for fans and blowers.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Insulation?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 11:12:49 -0400

Insulation is rated in terms of thermal resistance, called R-value, which indicates the resistance to heat flow. Although insulation can slow heat flow—conduction, convection and radiation—its greatest impact is on conduction.

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Laundry Area?

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:57:54 -0400

The laundry room can be a big consumer of energy—more than 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) a year—and water—and a big producer of unwanted heat and humidity in the summer. It makes good sense to think about both the location and the appliances in it if you want to run an energy-efficient laundry. And there are new washers and dryers on the market now that make it easier than ever to do so.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Mold?

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 17:59:43 -0500

Mold has received a lot of attention of late because of high profile lawsuits and television news broadcasts that have highlighted the potential hazards and liabilities associated with indoor mold. What is mold? Molds, along with mildews, yeasts, and mushrooms, all belong to the kingdom fungi. Fungi are unicellular or multicellular organisms that primarily use absorption as a means to obtain energy from their environment, unlike green plants, which use chlorophyll to obtain energy from sunlight. The term “mold” describes unwanted visible fungal growth. “Mildew” is fungi that grows on fabrics or that causes plant disease. The term “yeast” is fungi that are unicellular when cultured.

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Water Heater?

Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:05:38 -0400

Heating water is the third largest energy expense in your home, after heating and cooling the entire space; and, it can account for 15-25% of your utility bill. It’s not hard to see why a family of four, each taking a 5-minute shower a day under inefficient showerheads, can use 700 gallons of water in a week representing a 3-year supply of drinking water for one person! There are several ways to cut down the amount you spend on heating water: a) insulate your water heater and pipes; b) reduce the amount of hot water you use; and c) turn down the thermostat on your water heater.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Windows?

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 23:27:09 -0400

The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) offers a voluntary testing and certification program for thermal performance for windows and residential door products with glass. The NFRC does not conduct structural characteristics, such as impact-resistance, but rather serves as a complementary program that can test the whole window (including frame) for the following characteristics: U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), Visible Transmittance, Air Leakage, and Condensation Resistance (see sample NFRC label) .

ENERGY SERIES: What Are the Differences Between Mobile and Modular Homes?

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 15:04:27 -0400

Mobile and modular homes are factory-built and generally differ in how much of the construction occurs at the factory. The greater the work at the factory, the less labor is needed where the home will be located.

ENERGY SERIES: What Can Builders Do to Help Prevent Moisture Problems in New Construction?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:19:38 -0400

Buildings should be designed and built to provide comfortable and healthy levels of relative humidity. They should also prevent both liquid water from migrating through building components and water vapor from being trapped in building assemblies, like walls.

ENERGY SERIES: What Does the Shape of the House Have to Do With Energy Efficiency?

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 11:15:31 -0400

In a home, heat energy is transferred among all materials and substances that are of different temperatures—within the building materials, inside the building itself, and outside the building envelope. The term “building envelope” refers to all of the external building materials, windows, and walls that enclose the internal space. Heat moves only when there is a difference in temperature, and it always moves from the warm side to the cool side. Heat will continue to “flow” until any touching materials reach the same temperature. However, we usually want the inside of a home to have a different temperature from the outside.

ENERGY SERIES: Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:21:08 -0400

If you're trying to decide whether to invest in a more energy-efficient appliance or if you'd like to determine your electricity loads, you may want to estimate appliance energy consumption.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Appliances?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:15:56 -0400

When shopping for appliances, remember that there are actually three prices to consider. The first is the one everyone considers: the purchase price. The second price is for repairs and maintenance. The third price is often forgotten, but equally important: the operating cost of the appliance. Operating cost depends on the cost of fuel (kilowatt-hour, cubic foot, therm, etc.) in your region, how much you use the appliance as well as the way you use it, and the overall energy efficiency of the appliance. Operating cost shows up on your utility bill each month for the life of the appliance. Your refrigerator, for example, may operate effectively for 15–20 years and your dishwasher for about 10 years. You'll need to consider how any given appliance will affect your utility usage.

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Bathroom?

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 10:59:22 -0500

Did you know the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that private homes account for more than 20 percent of the energy and about 55 percent of publicly supplied water consumed in the United States? We all know that we can save water if we just turn off the tap while brushing our teeth. We also know that when we reduce the amount of hot water used we also decrease the energy needed to heat the water. But, did you know there are products that can help you save water even when you have to use water?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Caulking and Weather-Stripping?

Fri, 03 May 2024 21:59:30 -0400

The greatest source of wasted heating and cooling energy in a home is air leaks. If you have a pair of 6' 8" exterior doors in your home that do not have weather-stripping, you can easily have an opening of ¼" all along the edge where the doors meet. This ¼" gap adds up to a 20-square-inch opening to the outside. If you saw a hole this big in your wall, wouldn’t you want it fixed?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Dishwashers?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:06:04 -0400

It may come as a surprise that washing a load of dishes in the dishwasher uses less water than doing the same number of dishes by hand. (Dishwashers also do a better job of killing germs, because they use hotter water than you would normally use if washing by hand.) For each cycle, an ENERGYSTAR qualified dishwasher model uses about 4 gallons of water; a non-qualified model uses about 6 gallons.

ENERGY SERIES:What about House Design and Room Location?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 22:40:20 -0400

While a good heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system and other energy saving features can provide you with a comfortable indoor environment, it is even more efficient to prevent heat from entering the house in the first place. By designing a house with the right shape and orientation, and strategically locating rooms, you can save on energy costs for cooling and heating. If renting or purchasing, look for these same features in an existing home.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Moisture?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 23:10:41 -0400

Air is made up of a mixture of gases including oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. It also contains water vapor—water in the form of a gas. The temperature of the air determines how much water vapor it can hold: warm air can hold more than cool air. When the air is saturated, it cannot hold any more, and any extra water vapor will condense into liquid form.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Radiant Barriers?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 22:33:30 -0400

Reflective insulation systems are made from aluminum foils with a variety of backings such as roof sheathing, kraft paper, plastic film, cardboard, bubble wrap, etc. The resistance to heat flow depends on the direction of heat flow with this type of insulation most effective in reducing downward heat flow and requiring an air space next to the reflective side. Reflective systems are usually located between roof rafters, floor joists, or wall studs. Reflective insulation placed in walls or on the attic floor must be perforated to allow water vapor to pass through it.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Refrigerators and Freezers?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 22:39:05 -0400

Your refrigerator is the only appliance that works continuously in your home 24 hours a day. In most households, the refrigerator is the single biggest energy consuming kitchen appliance. According to ENERGY STAR, replacing a refrigerator bought in 1990 with a new ENERGY STAR qualified model can save enough to pay for lighting an average household for nearly four months.

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Roof?

Wed, 03 May 2023 14:42:07 -0400

Roofing is more than shingles, tile, or metal. A roof system consists of several components, properly assembled to provide the appropriate shelter for a structure. These include structural elements, moisture barriers, and possibly insulation or ventilation.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Ventilation?

Tue, 01 Nov 2022 11:09:40 -0400

“Ventilation” is “the natural or mechanical process of supplying conditioned or unconditioned air to, or removing air from, any space.” “Infiltration” is the uncontrolled leakage of air through cracks and gaps in the building envelope, especially around windows and doors. Infiltration deals with uncontrolled situations. In our homes we want to be able to control air movement.

ENERGY SERIES: What is the Whole-House Systems Approach to Energy Efficiency?

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 21:04:33 -0400

The whole-house systems approach looks at the entire house as an energy system with interdependent parts. Like a human body, when one part functions poorly it affects the performance of the entire system. For instance, the benefits of an energy-efficient air conditioner are lessened when a duct system leaks, windows don’t close tightly, the attic is uninsulated, and humid summer breezes are drifting in under the door.

Lighting and Marking Recommendations for Animal-Drawn Carriages, Buggies and Wagons

Thu, 30 May 2024 15:31:58 -0400

Horse-drawn buggies or wagons and other animal-drawn carriages have been used by the Plain Communities as the primary means of transportation for generations. Equestrian sports and tourism business enterprises have also increased the number of horse-drawn carriages on streets and highways.

Driving Safely in Plain Communities

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:16:54 -0400

Preparing for an Emergency: The Smart Thing to Do

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 10:59:24 -0400

Preparing for emergencies is not new. Your grandparents probably have extra supplies, such as: soap and shampoo in the bathroom closets, onions and potatoes stored in the basement, and canned goods on pantry shelves in their home. They understood the value of having a little extra on hand in case of emergencies.

Virginia Agriculture - Relating to Farmers

Fri, 25 Oct 2024 16:30:56 -0400

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Household Water Treatment

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:23:31 -0400

Skidder Safety and Efficiency: A Discussion Leader's Guide

Fri, 03 May 2024 13:18:15 -0400

Deep Tillage Prior to No-Till Corn: Research and Recommendations

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 20:35:28 -0500

Soil compaction is a manageable factor that can limit grain or silage yield on many Virginia soils.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 14: Wet Ponds

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 15:00:12 -0400

Wet ponds are ponds designed to retain water through storage. They provide treatment through settling and biological uptake. They can also attenuate peak flows and provide flood and streambank protection. This fact sheet describes wet ponds and their benefits and limitations.

Urban Stormwater: Terms and Definitions

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 16:35:19 -0400

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 1: Rooftop Disconnection

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:07:22 -0500

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 2: Sheet Flow to Open Space

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:08:47 -0500

Sheet flow to open space (SOS) is a group of best management practices (BMPs) designed to disperse concentrated runoff to sheet flow into filter strips or a riparian buffer. An SOS reduces runoff volume and associated sediment and nutrients that are carried with it (see figure 1). It is used as a stormwater treatment practice in both urban and rural areas. This practice is often used after another treatment practice to disperse or eliminate runoff. In a few cases, an SOS can be used as a pretreatment to remove small amounts of sediment via a vegetated filter strip — prior to a bioretention device, for example.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 3: Grass Channels

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:09:55 -0500

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 4: Soil Restoration

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:10:55 -0500

Soil restoration (SR) is the technique of enhancing compacted soils to improve their porosity and nutrient retention. It includes biological (worms) and mechanical aeration, mechanical loosening (tilling), planting dense vegetation, and applying soil amendments. Soil amendments involve the spreading and mixing of mature compost into disturbed and compacted urban soils (see Figure 1).

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 5: Vegetated Roofs

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 13:20:08 -0400

A vegetated roof (VR) is a best management practice (BMP) that reduces stormwater runoff and pollution. Vegetation and media create a permeable system on a previously impervious surface. The VR intercepts rainfall and filters runoff while reducing the volume and velocity. Vegetated roofs consist of a waterproofing barrier, drainage system, and engineered growing media. There are two types of VRs: intensive and extensive. Intensive vegetated roofs are deeper and heavier, while extensive vegetated roofs are shallower, lighter, and more common (see Figure 1). The type of VR determines the amount of maintenance necessary to maintain the vegetation.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 6: Rainwater Harvesting

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:14:27 -0500

Rainwater harvesting (RWH), also known as rainwater harvesting systems or cisterns, are devices that intercept, divert, store, and release collected roof runoff from rainfall for later use as an alternative water supply (see figure 1). RWH can also be designed to provide runoff reduction benefits. Therefore, it is classified as a best management practice (BMP) for treatment of urban stormwater. Because of its dual purpose and benefit, RWH is often classified as a sustainable urban BMP.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 7: Permeable Pavement

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:49:37 -0500

Permeable pavement (PP) is a modified form of asphalt or concrete with a top layer that is pervious to water due to voids intentionally created during mixing. PPs include pervious concrete, porous asphalt, and interlocking concrete pavers. These materials are used as stormwater treatment practices in urban areas. They are used in place of traditionally impervious surfaces to allow infiltration and storage, thus reducing runoff (see figure 1).

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 8: Infiltration Practices

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:17:50 -0500

Infiltration practices provide temporary surface and/or subsurface storage, allowing infiltration of runoff into soils. In practice, an excavated trench is usually filled with gravel or stone media, where runoff is stored in pore spaces or voids between the stones (see figure 1). These systems can reduce significant quantities of stormwater by enhancing infiltration, as well as provide filtering and adsorption of pollutants within the stone media and soils. Infiltration practices are part of a group of stormwater treatment practices, also known as best management practices (BMPs)

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 9: Bioretention

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:48:50 -0500

A bioretention cell, or rain garden, is a best management practice (BMP) designed to treat stormwater runoff from roofs, driveways, walkways, or lawns. They are a shallow, landscaped depression that receives and treats polluted stormwater with the goal of discharging water of a quality and quantity similar to that of a forested watershed (figure 1).

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 10: Dry Swale

Sat, 27 Apr 2024 21:07:28 -0400

A dry swale (DS) is a shallow, gently sloping channel with broad, vegetated, side slopes. Water flow is slowed by a series of check dams (see figure 1). A DS provides temporary storage, filtration, and infiltration of stormwater runoff. Dry swales function similarly to bioretention, and are comparable to wet swales; however, unlike a wet swale, a DS should remain dry during periods of no rainfall. A DS is an engineered best management practice (BMP) that is designed to reduce pollution through runoff reduction and pollutant removal and is part of a site’s stormwater treatment practice (see figure 2).

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 11: Wet Swale

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 10:58:00 -0400

A wet swale (WS) is an engineered, best management practice (BMP) arranged in a straight line that is designed to reduce stormwater pollution. A WS consists of a shallow, gently sloping channel with broad, vegetated, side slopes and slow flows (see figure 1). Wet swales typically stay wet because the bottom of the swale is below the water table. This is done to encourage the growth of wetland vegetation, providing water quality treatment similar to a natural wetland. This stormwater treatment practice also functions as part of the stormwater conveyance system. Wet swales have a relatively low capital cost; however, maintenance can be is intensive and expensive when compared to other BMPs.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 12: Filtering Practices

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 11:15:19 -0400

A stormwater filtering practice (FP) treats stormwater runoff by passing it through an engineered filter media consisting of either sand, gravel, organic matter, and/ or a proprietary manufactured product, collecting it in an underdrain, and then discharging the effluent to a stormwater conveyance system. FPs are stormwater treatment practices that are often obtained from the marketplace due to unique proprietary technologies (see figure 1).

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 13: Constructed Wetlands

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:47:58 -0500

Constructed wetlands are a series of ponds with varying depths that treat stormwater using wetland processes. In terms of biological activity, wetlands are extremely productive; and thus constructed wetlands can provide significant water quality treatment to urban runoff. This fact sheet describes these benefits, and provides guidance on their design and limitations.

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 14: Wet Ponds

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:14:52 -0500

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 15: Extended Detention Ponds

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 11:26:55 -0400

Extended detention ponds (EDs) are dry detention ponds that provide 12 to 24 hours of runoff storage during peak runoff events (see figure 1). Releases from the ED ponds are controlled by an outlet structure. During a storm event, as the discharge restriction is reached, water backs up into the ED pond. The pool slows flow velocities and enables particulate pollutants to settle. Peak flows are also reduced. ED ponds have the lowest overall pollutant- removal rate of any stormwater treatment option, so they are often combined with other upstream, lowimpact development (LID) practices to better maximize pollutant-removal rates. Due to their placement at the exit point of the watershed, ED is often the last opportunity to treat stormwater before it is discharged to a stream. Because of its low treatment performance, an ED should be viewed as the treatment option of last resort.

Droplet Chart / Selection Guide

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:21:06 -0500

When choosing nozzles/droplet sizes for spray applications, applicators must consider both coverage needed and drift potential. As a rule, smaller droplets provide better coverage, but larger droplets are less likely to drift.

Nozzles: Selection and Sizing

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 11:46:42 -0400

This fact sheet covers nozzle description, recommended use for common nozzle types, and orifice sizing for agricultural and turf sprayers. Proper selection of a nozzle type and size is essential for correct and accurate pesticide application. The nozzle is a major factor in determining the amount of spray applied to an area, uniformity of application, coverage obtained on the target surface, and amount of potential drift.

Storing and Handling Poultry Litter

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 14:01:22 -0400

Curing Quality Peanuts in Virginia

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 13:42:15 -0500

Using Tractor Test Data for Selecting Farm Tractors

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:53:36 -0400

The test reports published by Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory (NTTL) can be extremely useful for selecting tractors or for comparing the performance of different makes and models of tractors. For example, when farmers are in the market for a tractor, the performance data in the NTTL reports can be used to select a tractor that will meet their needs. These reports can also serve as an effective tool for making tractor sales. Dealership personnel can use the performance data to compare their products to those of their competitors.

Predicting Tractor Diesel Fuel Consumption

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 21:43:33 -0500

Ability to predict tractor fuel consumption is very useful for budgeting and management. The objective of this factsheet is to develop relationships using field measurements and Nebraska Tractor Test Laboratory results to estimate tractor fuel consumption. Using these equations, farmers can estimate and compare the fuel consumption for different operating and loading conditions.

Arthritis and Farming

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:44:17 -0400

Approximately 52.2 million, or more than 1 in 5 Americans, suffer from arthritis. This chronic disease is more prevalent among farmers. A survey of Virginia farmers revealed that about 30 percent of the respondents have been diagnosed with arthritis.

Assistive Technologies in Agriculture

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:35:32 -0400

The goal of this publication is to introduce readers to the Assistive Technologies (ATs) used in agriculture and to the steps involved in the design of a successful AT system. This publication also discusses both common and operation-specific AT systems used in agriculture and how they influence secondary injuries, and it provides lists of agencies and resources that can help farmers and ranchers with the implementation of ATs.

Preventing Secondary Injuries in Agricultural Workplaces

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 16:49:58 -0400

The intent of this fact sheet is to reduce the number of secondary injuries by familiarizing the readers with secondary injuries and the steps they can adopt to minimize them. In addition to identifying common secondary injuries and the most vulnerable groups, the publication discusses steps that can be taken to prevent such injuries. The fact sheet also provides a list of agencies that farmers can contact for assistance when they experience secondary injuries.

Machinery Safety on the Farm

Wed, 05 Jul 2023 14:32:03 -0400

Machines; no farm or ranch can function without them. They save valuable time and are essential to agricultural productivity. They also represent an ever-present danger to the people who operate them. There are a host of hazards that makes agricultural machinery the leading cause of injury and death on American farms and ranches.

Safe Operation of Compact Tractors

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:45:58 -0500

Follow these safety tips and maintenance procedures for checking, servicing, and operating compact tractors to extend their life and reduce breakdowns and accidents.

Determining Forage Moisture Concentration

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 15:43:00 -0400

Harvesting and storing forage at the proper moisture concentration is essential to producing a high-quality product. Ideally, hay forage should have a moisture concentration between 15 percent and 18 percent during baling. Hay baled at higher moisture levels is subject to heat damage, dry-matter loss, mold spoilage, and hay fires. Protein and total digestible nutrient losses are increased for hay baled at lower moisture levels. Baling at the proper moisture level is critical to making quality hay, especially for larger bales (round and square) since moisture and heat dissipate more slowly in comparison to smaller bales.

Compost Bedded-pack Dairy Barns

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:41:31 -0500

Fencing Materials For Livestock Systems

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 08:22:09 -0400

Nutrient Management for Small Farms

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:30:26 -0400

Selecting a Treatment Technology for Manure Management

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:51:06 -0400

Animal manure has been used for centuries as a fertilizer and a soil builder because it contains nutrients and organic matter. However, as animal production shifts toward fewer but larger operations, the number of confined animals has increased in some geographical locations, resulting in more manure produced than can be assimilated by the available farmland where the animals are raised.

Selecting and Siting Poultry and Livestock Manure Storage Structures on Farms

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:07:33 -0500

Manure storage is a critical part of a nutrient management plan in a livestock or poultry operation. It's essential to recognize manure as a valuable resource, rich in organic matter and nutrients that can be used as fertilizer or for energy production. While manure can accumulate rapidly, effective management is key to reducing the potential for odors, surface water, and groundwater contamination. This responsible environmental practice not only mitigates these risks but also allows for a strategic approach to managing and using manure. It provides livestock and poultry operations with the flexibility to schedule its use, maximizing the benefits of the resources it contains. Our publication offers guidelines and information for choosing the type of storage and setting them up for farming operations, emphasizing the importance of this responsibility.

Poultry and Livestock Manure Storage: Management and Safety

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 17:10:29 -0500

Storing manure is a common practice on farms and for those who keep animals. However, a well-designed manure storage facility must also be well-managed to prevent environmental concerns from developing. In most cases, manure storages are used when cold weather, wet conditions, and/or a lack of time do not allow field application. To get the most benefit out of the manure, good management practices and observation of safety practices that minimize manure hazards on the farm are crucial. This publication provides guidelines that stress the importance of good management and safety practices for manure storage to inform the safety and security of a farming operation.

Manure Management and Environmental Stewardship

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 17:06:57 -0500

If not managed properly, manure can negatively impact the environment. Therefore, regardless of size, all livestock and poultry operations must handle manure effectively for economic benefits and environmental protection. Media reports often highlight community conflicts arising from livestock and poultry odors, fish kills, and the pollution of surface or groundwater due to poor manure management. These issues have strained relationships between the public and animal agriculture and can be minimized responsibly by managing manure and other agricultural wastes. Effective manure management begins with recognizing its value as a nutrient source for crops and understanding its potential negative effects on air, water, and soil. This publication provides general guidelines for managing livestock and poultry manure. It includes a list of resources with detailed information on best practices for manure management and uses that contribute to good environmental stewardship.

“Gear Up and Throttle Down” to Save Fuel

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:44:25 -0400

“Gear-up and throttle-down” (GUTD) is a fuel-saving practice that can be used for saving fuel when drawbar loads are lighter (<75 percent of rated power) and PTO (power takeoff) speed can be reduced.

Five Strategies for Extending Machinery Life

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 22:24:56 -0400

Machinery ownership and operation is a major crop and livestock production cost. Several strategies when combined can significantly affect costs, improve machine reliability, and improve profit margins.

Plumbing Systems of Agricultural Sprayers

Mon, 08 Jul 2024 17:04:24 -0400

The plumbing systems of agricultural sprayers are usually considered foolproof. Sprayer problems may occur if plumbing and/or modifications are improperly done or maintenance is ignored. Retrofitting, addition of electrical control systems, and replacement of pumps or nozzles require proper knowledge of the plumbing system and the implications of these changes to sprayer performance. Routine maintenance of the plumbing system is essential.

Fine Tuning a Sprayer with “Ounce” Calibration Method

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 08:52:42 -0400

This extension publication discusses guidelines to quickly evaluate the performance of a sprayer. Sprayer calibration, nozzle discharge, spray pattern uniformity, speed checks, pump performance, and plumbing arrangements are evaluated with minimal calculations.

Management Tips for Round Bale Hay Harvesting, Moving, and Storage

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:43:57 -0400

Hay production and feeding is one of the most expensive components of forage-livestock systems. Specific management practices are necessary to maintain hay quality and minimize hay loss during harvest, transportation and storage of large round bales.

Large Round Bale Safety

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 00:57:39 -0400

This Extension publication covers the safety aspects of equipment used in large round bale packages such as: balers, front-end loaders, bale handling and transport devices. The key to safe and efficient systems for handling large round bales is an operator who knows the hazards involved and who follows safety practices that can prevent accidents. Operators must be constantly alert for situations that may cause injuries to themselves or others. Besides pain and suffering, accidents contribute to higher costs in terms of unnecessary downtime or costly machine repairs. Alertness and safety consciousness can result in more efficient and profitable baling and handling.

Respiratory Protection in Agriculture

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:45:14 -0500

Farm workers can encounter a variety of respiratory problems ranging from temporary discomfort caused by allergic reactions to fatal asphyxiation. However, the risk of contracting serious lung diseases or death can be significantly decreased by using respiratory protection (fig. 1). See the sidebar for a list of farm work that requires respiratory protection.

Farmer's Lung: Causes and Symptoms of Mold and Dust Induced Respiratory Illness

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:42:48 -0500

Farmers account for more than 30 percent of adults dis- abled by respiratory illness. Yet, a large percentage of farmers are nonsmokers. If smoking is not to blame for these ailments, then what is? The answer is farmer’s lung.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Iron and Manganese in Household Water

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 22:41:45 -0500

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Sulfate and Hydrogen Sulfide in Household Water

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 01:34:42 -0500

Private water sources such as wells and springs are not regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although private well construction regulations exist in Virginia, private water supply owners are responsible for providing maintenance for their water systems, monitoring water quality, and taking the appropriate steps to address problems, should they arise.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Nitrate in Household Water

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:17:35 -0500

Private water sources, such as wells and springs, are not regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although private well construction regulations exist in Virginia, private water supply owners are responsible for the maintenance of their water systems, for monitoring the quality of their drinking water, and for taking appropriate steps to address problems should they arise.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Fluoride in Household Water

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 11:28:32 -0500

Fluoride is a naturally occurring element that is found in certain rocks and soils and can be dissolved in groundwater. Most groundwater naturally contains small amounts of fluoride; however, in some parts of eastern Virginia, levels of naturally occurring fluoride in the groundwater may be quite high.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Sodium and Chloride in Household Drinking Water

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 10:40:59 -0500

Sodium and chloride, which together compose common table salt, often occur naturally in groundwater as it dissolves minerals underground. Higher levels of sodium and chloride in household water, however, often come from manmade sources such as road salt, industrial wastes, sewage, fertilizers, or water softeners. In coastal areas, sodium and chloride can also enter groundwater via salt water intrusion into fresh water aquifers. In high enough concentrations, salt water intrusion can render groundwater unsuitable for drinking, cooking, or irrigating.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Bacteria and Other Microorganisms in Household Water

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 13:10:50 -0400

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Shock Chlorination: Disinfecting Private Household Water Supply Systems

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 15:59:27 -0500

Shock chlorination is a process of disinfecting a private water supply and plumbing system by circulating a concentrated chlorine solution throughout the system.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Hardness in Household Water

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 17:09:15 -0500

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Corrosive Household Water

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 09:42:11 -0500

Corrosive water can react with minerals and metals that it comes in contact with to “corrode” or dissolve them. Corrosive water is often called “aggressive” water. While consuming corrosive or aggressive water is not in itself dangerous, consuming some of the contaminants that may be dissolved by corrosive water may pose health risks, particularly metals like copper and lead.

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in Household Water

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:21:18 -0500

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Household Water Treatment

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 22:20:12 -0500

Filtration, Treatment, and Maintenance Considerations for Micro-Irrigation Systems

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:12:56 -0500

Micro-irrigation systems can deliver water and nutrient in precise amounts and at controlled frequencies directly to the plant’s root zone. With micro-irrigation systems an extensive network of pipe is used to distribute water to emitters that discharge it in droplets, small steams, or through mini-sprayers. The major cause of failure in micro-irrigation systems is emitter plugging. Emitter plugging can severely degrade irrigation system performance and application uniformity. The goal of this document is to provide information on common water quality problems that can lead to emitter clogging, and how these problems can be addressed through water treatment and system maintenance. This should help producers identify, prevent, diagnose, and address clogging problems in their micro-irrigation systems.

A Glossary of Water-Related Terms

Wed, 18 Sep 2024 15:50:49 -0400

Planning for a Farm Storage Building

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:32:08 -0400

Biodiesel Fuel

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 14:52:08 -0400

Biodiesel is a renewable fuel that can be made from vegetable oil, animal fat, and recycled cooking oils. Oils produced from algae, fungi, bacteria, molds, and yeast can also be used to produce biodiesel.

Biomethane Production Technology

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 08:35:01 -0400

Biomethane Production Technology

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 16:47:32 -0500

Virginia Farmstead Assessment System: Site Evaluation: Groundwater, Soils, & Geology

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:41:04 -0400

Investing in GPS Guidance Systems?

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 09:21:37 -0400

Water Reuse: Using Reclaimed Water for Irrigation

Fri, 23 Aug 2024 10:48:35 -0400

Water reuse can be defined as the use of reclaimed water for a direct beneficial purpose.

2013 Virginia Peanut Production Guide

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 14:23:09 -0500

Mitigation of Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Agriculture

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 08:56:38 -0400

In this publication, information is presented on how to increase farm productivity while potentially reducing greenhouse gas* (GHG) contributions from agricultural production. Some of the practices may be familiar to many producers, such as building soil organic matter (SOM) or increasing nitrogen fertilization efficiency, but many producers may not know that these same productivity-boosting activities also help to reduce GHG emissions and their impact on climate change. While informative to the producer, this publication will also inform those with an interest in both agriculture and the environmental impact of GHG emissions on the atmosphere.

Climate Change Adaptation for Agriculture: Mitigating Short- and Long-Term Impacts of Climate on Crop Production

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:31:45 -0400

Climate change and climate variability pose a great risk to agricultural production and farm livelihoods, and producers will need to adapt to a changing climate that is expected to be significantly more variable in order to meet these challenges.

Greywater Reuse

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:56:09 -0400

Greywater is any household wastewater other than that used for toilet flushing. This water could be reused around the home (for purposes other than drinking water). An example of greywater use is landscape irrigation. Wastewater that comes in contact with human waste is referred to as blackwater. However, the definition of greywater varies according to state regulations.

Using Reclaimed Water

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 10:58:40 -0400

Reclaimed water, sometimes referred to as “water reuse” or “recycled water,” is water recovered from domestic, municipal, or industrial wastewater treatment plants that has been treated to standards that allow it to be safely used for designated purposes. Reclaimed water should not be confused with “wastewater,” untreated liquid industrial waste or domestic sewage. However, “gray water,” untreated water from bathing or washing, is considered one form of wastewater (Water Reuse, VCE Publication 452-014). The level of treatment and disinfection reclaimed water receives is dictated by its intended (and permitted) use. Many states encourage and promote the use of reclaimed water to conserve freshwater supplies and preserve rivers, streams, lakes, and aquifers.

Rainwater Harvesting Systems

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 11:01:46 -0400

Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting, storing, and later reusing rainwater from surfaces such as roofs. Rainwater harvesting has long been used for agricultural irrigation and as a source of drinking water, and allowed ancient civilizations to flourish in semi-arid and arid regions. Rainwater harvesting systems are in use today in many water-limited locations, especially in several western US regions. As population growth increases pressure on water resources in the more humid eastern US, rainwater harvesting is being considered to reduce the demand for potable water.

ENERGY SERIES: What about Landscaping and Energy Efficiency?

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 10:33:42 -0400

The design and management of a landscape can have a notable impact on household energy consumption. Throughout the history of civilization, people have altered their dwellings and landscapes to make them more comfortable and energy efficient.

Grape Production Injuries and Prevention

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 09:29:04 -0400

Grape acreage and production have been steadily increasing in the US. In 2010 there were approximately 23,000 farms with a total of 944,800 acres producing grapes. Ninety percent of these farms are smaller than 100 acres and about 16,000 of these were vineyards. California accounts for about 90% of the total production in the US. The next two largest grape producing states are Washington and New York and they produce approximately 6% and 2% respectively (NASS-USDA, 2014)

Hydrology Basics and the Hydrologic Cycle

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 11:33:31 -0400

This fact sheet presents and explains some common concepts in hydrology and the hydrologic cycle. The science or study of hydrology focuses on the distribution, occurrence, circulation, and properties of water in the environment.

Soil and Soil Water Relationships

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 19:55:40 -0500

This publication presents and discusses concepts that are fundamental to understanding soil, water, and plant relationships and the soil water balance. Knowledge about soil water relationships can inform the decision-making process in agricultural operations or natural resource management, such as determining what crops to plant, when to plant them, and when various management practices should be scheduled. Understanding these concepts is useful for addressing both agronomic and policy issues related to agricultural water management.

Communicating Climate Change to Agricultural Audiences

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 16:10:59 -0500

The objectives of this publication are (1) to outline some climate-related challenges facing agriculture, (2) to address challenges in communicating climate change issues, and (3) to propose best practices when attempting to communicate climate change issues to agricultural stakeholders. Extension educators and agricultural service providers can use the information presented here to develop outreach and educational programs focused on the impacts of climate change, the effects of climate change on agricultural production, and the best ways to motivate behavior change.

Factors When Considering an Agricultural Drainage System

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 19:00:20 -0500

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Emergency Supplies of Water for Drinking and Food Preparation

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 20:45:04 -0500

Indicators Of Lead In Well Water

Fri, 04 Feb 2022 09:38:52 -0500

Managing Climate Risks and Extreme Weather in Agriculture

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:14:08 -0500

Estimating Financial Costs and Benefits of Supplemental Irrigation with the Irrigation Financial Estimator Tool (IFET)

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 19:31:17 -0500

Row crop agriculture in Virginia and other Eastern states is largely rainfed, but there is increasing interest in irrigation as a way to manage dry periods and weather variability. However, irrigation systems require substantial installation and operating costs, and it can be very difficult to determine if yield improvements will be sufficient to justify these costs. This publication provides an overview on the Irrigation Financial Estimator Tool, which was recently developed to help row crop producers estimate financial aspects of supplemental irrigation. The tool estimates installation and operating costs, as well as revenues from improved yields, using user-supplied information and historic data on weather and prices for crops and fuel. It accounts for uncertainty in these estimates by presenting a range of values for each cost.

Supplemental Irrigation with the Irrigation Financial Estimator Tool (IFET)-Workbook

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 21:12:36 -0500

Row crop agriculture in Virginia and other Eastern states is largely rainfed, but there is increasing interest in irrigation as a way to manage dry periods and weather variability. However, irrigation systems require substantial installation and operating costs, and it can be very difficult determine if yield improvements will be sufficient to justify these costs. This publication provides an overview on the Irrigation Financial Estimator Tool, which was recently developed to help row crop producers estimate financial aspects of supplemental irrigation. The tool estimates installation and operating costs, as well as revenues from improved yields, using user-supplied information and historic data on weather and prices for crops and fuel. It accounts for uncertainty in these estimates by presenting a range of values for each cost.

Irrigation Scheduling in Humid Climates Using the Checkbook Method

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 18:54:11 -0500

Irrigation scheduling is the process of deciding when and how much irrigation to apply to a field. Applying too little irrigation water can cause crop losses and yield reduction, but applying too much water can waste money, fertilizer, and labor, and can even decrease yields in some cases. The goal of this bulletin is to provide information that can help irrigators schedule irrigation using the checkbook method. It describes some of the benefits of irrigation scheduling and general factors that influence the amount and timing of irrigation needs. It then describes the data needed for checkbook irrigation scheduling and how to get this data, the calculations involved, and software/apps that can be used to help with these calculations.

Household Water Quality - Albemarle County

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 12:12:32 -0500

Household Water Quality - Amelia County

Mon, 04 Nov 2019 12:26:10 -0500

Household Water Quality - Amherst County

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 12:17:01 -0500

Household Water Quality - Appomattox County

Tue, 12 Nov 2019 12:25:19 -0500

Soil Moisture Sensors for Agricultural Irrigation: An Overview on Sensor Types

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 10:08:15 -0500

Scheduling Agricultural Irrigation Based on Soil Moisture Content: Interpreting and Using Sensor Data

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 19:12:37 -0500

Understanding Climate Change Projections in Virginia

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:54:48 -0500

How Do Stream Buffers Reduce the Offsite Impact of Pollution?

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 12:44:12 -0500

Lawn Care: Hand Tools Safety

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:33:11 -0500

Many hand tools such as shovels, hoes, rakes, trimmers, and pruners are widely used in lawn care and landscaping. While these tools appear to be harmless, when used improperly, they can cause injuries that sometimes require medical treatment. In 2006, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported nearly 205,000 cases of injuries and/or illnesses resulting from the use of hand tools.

Lawn Care: Powered Hand Tool Safety

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:29:33 -0500

In addition to mowers and hand tools, several powered hand tools such as string trimmers, lawn edgers, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers are widely used in landscaping work. These machines can be dangerous if they are used improperly. A past study has shown that string trimmers and edgers alone cause more than 4,600 injuries that require emergency room treatment each year. About one-third of these cases are eye injuries.

Lawn Care: Rotary Mower Safety

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:23:42 -0500

Rotary mowers are very useful types of equipment, but they are dangerous, with the potential to cause serious injuries. Their blades rotate at a high speed of 2,000 to 4,000 revolutions per minute. The equivalent speed at the blade tip or the speed of debris thrown by the mower blade may range from 100 to 200 miles per hour. In order to prevent serious injuries, the operator should be able to disengage the blade and turn the engine off quickly.

Lawn Care: Tractor Safety

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:22:15 -0500

Most tractors used in landscaping, lawn care, and golf course maintenance are compact tractors in the 20 to 40 horsepower range. Although these tractors are considerably smaller than farm tractors, they are susceptible to the same types of accidents, with potential for serious injuries or deaths. Causes for such serious accidents are often the same in both cases, and therefore, the steps to take to avoid the accidents are the same.

Lawn Care: Utility-Type Vehicle Safety

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:21:09 -0500

Utility-type vehicles are popular, multipurpose equipment used for different applications in the lawn care industry. Their hauling capability and versatility have increased their popularity, and they are widely used in rural, suburban, and urban settings for a variety of lawn care, agricultural, construction, and industrial applications.

Guidelines for Protecting Youth Workers: Promote Safe Practices and Protect Youth Workers

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 17:09:18 -0500

The goal of this training guide is to reduce the number of accidents and related injuries among the youth workers in the green industry by making workplaces safer. This guide is primarily for employers or supervisors of youth workers in the green industry. In addition to familiarizing the employers/supervisors with the regulations associated with hiring youth workers, the guide discusses the steps they can take to make their work environments safer. It also covers the responsibilities of guardians and youth workers for making workplaces safer.

Rotary Mowers Safety: Lawncare Training Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:45:11 -0500

Mowing lawns continues to be one of the most popular summer job opportunities for youth given the affordable cost and ease in operation of most rotary mowers. However, easy access and widespread use of mowers often creates a false sense of security among the users of these machines. Data from a seven-year period (1996-2003) showed the highest rate of hospitalization from lawn mower injuries was for youth workers ages 15 to 19. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that more than 37,000 riding mower injuries occurred from 2003 through 2005 alone. During the same period, there were 95 fatalities due to riding mower tip-over. The purpose of this training guide is to reduce the number of mower accidents and injuries by familiarizing young workers with rotary mowers and their safe operation.

Tractor Safety: Lawn Care Training Guide, Safe Use of Tractors

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:54:31 -0500

Tractors are versatile equipment used in a variety of jobs ranging from hauling goods to lawn care to agriculture. While they are extremely versatile, they can be very dangerous unless they are used with care following safe practices. Accidents resulting in fatalities and severe injuries are very common during tractor use. The National Safety Council estimated that approximately 36 percent of all the agricultural fatalities in 1997 involved a tractor. Published data also show that farm accidents cause more than 100 deaths and about 2,600 serious injuries among children annually. Tractors account for about 41 percent of the accidental deaths among children under 15 years of age. In spite of these convincing data, a large number of operators continue to follow unsafe practices that can cause serious accidents.

Utility Type Vehicles: UTV Maintenance and Safe Use Lawn Care Training Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:26:26 -0500

Utility type vehicles (UTVs) are popular equipment used in a variety of settings, including the lawn care industry. Their hauling capacity and versatility have increased their popularity, and they are widely used in rural, suburban, and urban settings for a variety of lawn care, agricultural, construction, and industrial applications. Considering that UTVs are widely used in the green industry, it is extremely important that young workers in the industry become familiar with the safe operation of UTVs. The purpose of this training guide is to familiarize young workers with the safe use of UTVs.

Powered Hand Tools Safety: Lawn Care Training Guide

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:25:31 -0500

In addition to rotary mowers, many powered hand tools such as string trimmers, lawn edgers, hedge trimmers, and leaf blowers are widely used in lawn care. While these devices are very useful in making jobs easier and more efficient, they can be dangerous if used without proper training and care. In 1989 the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that power lawn trimmers and edgers alone have caused about 4,600 injuries annually that required medical attention. About one-third of these were eye-related.

Hand Tools Safety: Lawn Care Training Guide Hand Tool Care and Safe Use

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 12:16:30 -0500

Many hand tools such as rakes, shovels, and pruners are used widely in lawn care operations. While these non-powered tools are not known to cause major injuries, they have the potential for injuries that may require absence from work and/or medical assistance when they are used improperly.

Denitrification Management

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:47:18 -0500

Denitrifying Bioreactors: An Emerging Best Management Practice to Improve Water Quality

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:33:17 -0500

Denitrifying bioreactors (DNBRs) are an alternative best management practice (BMP) that can reduce the amount of nitrogen reaching surface waters. DNBRs function by supporting soil microorganisms that are capable of denitrification in a favorable environment.

Tractor-Mounted Lifts

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 09:59:18 -0500

Tractor-Mounted Vertical Lifts

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:08:42 -0500

Tractor-Mounted Inclined Lifts

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 10:12:40 -0500

Solar Powered Water Pumping Systems

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 14:13:23 -0500

This introductory information is primarily focused on solar-powered water pumping systems for tenant farmers and for systems designed for use only during freeze-free months. The information and the referenced demonstration systems are to help enhance pasture management options, while excluding livestock from surface streams, in situations where a permanent watering system may not currently be possible for the site. A permanent watering system is needed for ongoing year-round usage. Please refer to the resources listed in this publication for more general information and contact your local USDA Service Center to explore options for permanent livestock watering systems.

Managing Irrigation with Saline Water

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 22:17:31 -0500

Understanding Salinity in Tidal Waters: Information for Irrigators

Wed, 31 May 2023 09:51:39 -0400

Spray Water Quality and Pesticide Characteristics

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:24:00 -0500

Pesticide sprays consist of at least 95% water. Water quality plays an important role in pesticide performance. The following issues may indicate a compatibility problem with pesticides and spray water quality: - Pesticide does not work at labeled rates; - Difficulty mixing sprays or clogging of nozzles; - Inconsistent pest control observed in fields or plots; - Pests seem resistant to a new pesticide active ingredient, or - Crops are lower quality or lower yielding. Understanding how water quality characteristics such as pH, water hardness, turbidity, and total suspended solids affect the adsorption and persistence (half-life, storage time) of a pesticide can help pesticide applicators reduce or eliminate compatibility issues and improve pesticide effectiveness

Understanding Spray Tank Mixing Practices

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 17:09:45 -0500

Mixing two or more pesticide products can allow for the treatment of several pests at the same time, improve pesticide performance, and ultimately saving time and money. However, physical and chemical tank mix incompatibilities can occur when combining two or more pesticides. Physical incompatibility is the failure of pesticide products to stay uniformly mixed and can result in layering, products settling out of solution, or clumping. A chemical incompatibility is the result of a chemical reaction between pesticide products. A chemical incompatibility is less visible and can be harder to detect. This publication focuses on basic factors that influence product compatibility (agitation speed and method, water temperature, mixing order, carrier type, and chemical formulations) and summarizes best mixing practices to address these factors.

Solving Spray Water Problems

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 23:28:26 -0500

Spray water problems may arise due to water quality and management decisions. Certain aspects of water quality can reduce the efficacy of the pesticide as well as affect how the pesticide interacts with the plant surface or targets pests. Evaluating and testing spray water chemistry can help identify water quality problems that might otherwise be overlooked. This publication will examine possible solutions to spray water problems, including the use of adjuvants and other additives to enhance pesticide performance.

Drone imaging to evaluate impact of Nematodes on Soybean Yield

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 16:05:03 -0500

Drone based imagery shows the potential to highlight differences in crop status pertaining to nematode populations in soybean. In addition, integrating the imagery with machine learning models enables yield estimation much before harvest up to an accuracy of 87%. This provides growers with insights into crop health and yield conditions prompting for timely management decisions such as application of fertilizer or fungicides and irrigation. In addition, growers would also benefit from preharvest yield estimations for harvest, storage, and sales planning. This helps to realize optimal yield.

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ENERGY SERIES: What about the Air Conditioning System?

ENERGY SERIES: What About Using Ceiling Fans?

ENERGY SERIES: What About the Ductwork?

Energy Series: What about Fluorescent Lighting?

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Heating System?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Insulation?

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Laundry Area?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Mold?

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Water Heater?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Windows?

ENERGY SERIES: What Are the Differences Between Mobile and Modular Homes?

ENERGY SERIES: What Can Builders Do to Help Prevent Moisture Problems in New Construction?

ENERGY SERIES: What Does the Shape of the House Have to Do With Energy Efficiency?

ENERGY SERIES: Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use

ENERGY SERIES: What about Appliances?

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Bathroom?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Caulking and Weather-Stripping?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Dishwashers?

ENERGY SERIES:What about House Design and Room Location?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Moisture?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Radiant Barriers?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Refrigerators and Freezers?

ENERGY SERIES: What about the Roof?

ENERGY SERIES: What about Ventilation?

ENERGY SERIES: What is the Whole-House Systems Approach to Energy Efficiency?

Lighting and Marking Recommendations for Animal-Drawn Carriages, Buggies and Wagons

Driving Safely in Plain Communities

Preparing for an Emergency: The Smart Thing to Do

Virginia Agriculture - Relating to Farmers

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Household Water Treatment

Skidder Safety and Efficiency: A Discussion Leader's Guide

Deep Tillage Prior to No-Till Corn: Research and Recommendations

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 14: Wet Ponds

Urban Stormwater: Terms and Definitions

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 1: Rooftop Disconnection

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 2: Sheet Flow to Open Space

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 3: Grass Channels

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 4: Soil Restoration

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 5: Vegetated Roofs

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 6: Rainwater Harvesting

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 7: Permeable Pavement

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 8: Infiltration Practices

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 9: Bioretention

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 10: Dry Swale

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 11: Wet Swale

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 12: Filtering Practices

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 13: Constructed Wetlands

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 14: Wet Ponds

Best Management Practice Fact Sheet 15: Extended Detention Ponds

Droplet Chart / Selection Guide

Nozzles: Selection and Sizing

Storing and Handling Poultry Litter

Curing Quality Peanuts in Virginia

Using Tractor Test Data for Selecting Farm Tractors

Predicting Tractor Diesel Fuel Consumption

Arthritis and Farming

Assistive Technologies in Agriculture

Preventing Secondary Injuries in Agricultural Workplaces

Machinery Safety on the Farm

Safe Operation of Compact Tractors

Determining Forage Moisture Concentration

Compost Bedded-pack Dairy Barns

Fencing Materials For Livestock Systems

Nutrient Management for Small Farms

Selecting a Treatment Technology for Manure Management

Selecting and Siting Poultry and Livestock Manure Storage Structures on Farms

Poultry and Livestock Manure Storage: Management and Safety

Manure Management and Environmental Stewardship

“Gear Up and Throttle Down” to Save Fuel

Five Strategies for Extending Machinery Life

Plumbing Systems of Agricultural Sprayers

Fine Tuning a Sprayer with “Ounce” Calibration Method

Management Tips for Round Bale Hay Harvesting, Moving, and Storage

Large Round Bale Safety

Respiratory Protection in Agriculture

Farmer's Lung: Causes and Symptoms of Mold and Dust Induced Respiratory Illness

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Iron and Manganese in Household Water

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Sulfate and Hydrogen Sulfide in Household Water

Virginia Household Water Quality Program: Nitrate in Household Water