Roots & Ridge Report

July has officially arrived, and if it feels like everything is growing faster than you can keep up with it... you're probably right. Across southwest Minnesota, the combination of warmer temperatures and some timely rains has crops, hay fields, and pastures looking much better than they did just a few weeks ago. Of course, no one ever complains about rain, but I do hope the severe weather stays at bay. Here's hoping Mother Nature sticks to the gentle, overnight variety for the rest of the summer.

Around Pipestone and Murray counties, it's the season of making the most of every day. Hay harvest is rolling along between showers, sprayers are covering acres, and livestock are enjoying greener pastures. The to-do list seems to keep getting longer. You may even start to see some ready produce in you gardens!

Inside this month's newsletter, you'll find Extension resources to help you the hottest days of summer, along with a few podcasts that pair well with time in the tractor, pickup, or mower. Dr. George Lemke shares some well time information about New World Screwworm , and we've included several articles covering timely topics for both crop and livestock producers.

Thanks for taking a few minutes to read this month's newsletter. I hope July brings just enough rain, equipment that cooperates, and a few chances to enjoy summer before county fairs and the start of school start sneak up on us again. I hope everyone had an amazing and safe 4th of July!

Matti Boomgaarden- Extension Educator

boomg022@umn.edu

MC:507-836-1143

PC:507-825-1193

Is planning for the transition of your farm weighing on your mind? Need a path forward to help you think about the options? University of Minnesota Extension in collaboration with Murray County Farmers Union will provide a workshop on farm transition and estate planning on Wednesday July 29, 2026.

Registration will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the workshop beginning at 10:00 a.m. concluding at 3:30 p.m. There is no cost and includes coffee, rolls, and lunch. It will be held in the 4-H building at the Murray County Fair Grounds. The workshop covers farm goal setting; business structures; farm operation and management succession ideas; as well as estate planning and retirement; family communicating; and additional farm transition educational resources.

“Planning for a farm transition can be challenging. This workshop gives farmers and ranchers things to think about and the tools to begin the process,” says Susanne Hinrichs, Extension educator. “Farmers and ranchers at any stage, from beginner to mid-career, to thinking about retirement can benefit from the workshop materials.”

Date & Location:

· Wednesday, July 29 - Murray County 4-H Building

o Time: 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

o Address: 3048 Broadway Ave. Slayton, MN 56172

Schedule

· Registration - 9:30 a.m. -10:00 a.m.

· Goal Planning and Family Communication - 10:00 - 11:00 a.m.

· Farm Business Succession and Asset Transfer - 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

· Lunch - 12:15 - 1:00 p.m.

· Wills, Trusts and Business Structures - 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.

· Estate, Retirement and Healthcare Planning- 2:00 - 3:00 p.m.

· Wrap up and additional Questions- 3:00 - 3:30 p.m.

Register Here: https://z.umn.edu/MurrayFarmTransition2026

New World screwworm is a serious livestock pest caused by the larvae of the

Cochliomyia hominivorax fly. Early detection in cattle is important because the larvae feed on living tissue and can cause severe wounds, infections, and even death if left untreated. Producers should regularly inspect cattle for signs of infestation, especially around wounds, the navel of young calves, areas where horns or tags have been removed, and other places where skin may be damaged. Common signs include a foul- smelling wound, bleeding, irritation, swelling, restlessness, and visible movement of small cream-colored larvae in the affected area.

Careful observation and quick action are key to controlling New World screwworm. When a suspected case is found, cattle should be examined closely and veterinary assistance should be contacted for confirmation and treatment recommendations. Detection may involve collecting larvae from the wound for identification. Early reporting helps prevent the spread of this parasite and protects livestock herds. Regular herd checks, proper wound care, and good management practices are important steps in reducing the risk of New World screwworm infestations.

Although there have not been any confirmed cases in Minnesota yet, it is important to keep a close eye on livestock especially when traveling to shows. Using preventative treatments when traveling home from shows in southern states, as well as shows where animals from southern states are in attendance. Please reach out to your veterinarian for treatment recommendations.

Although it is a serious issue, New World Screw worm can be treated and controlled if the correct steps are taken in a timely manner. Please reach out to Windy Ridge Vet Clinic with any questions, suspected cases, or if you would like to discuss preventative strategies after travel. Give us a call. 507-825-3336

Dr. George Lemke

Windy Ridge Veterinary Clinic, PLLC

P. O. Box #367

1309 7 th Street, S. E.

Pipestone, MN 56164

507-825-3336

507-825-5252 - Emergency

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