Latest Extension Guides: Tree Fruit Crop Protection, Improving Genes in Beef Cattle

Feb 13, 2025

By Seth Truscott

Each month, scientists at Washington State University publish online guides aiding Northwest agriculture and our economy. The latest guides from WSU Extension include a primer on using genomic selection to improve beef cattle, as well as a revised look at protecting tree fruit orchards from diseases and pests.

New: Implementing Genomic Selection in Beef Herds (FS393E)

Genomic selection is a tool that can be used to identify superior heifers for breeding. Sharing information about the benefits and use of selection, this guide explores opportunities and costs, survey results of beef producers, and how to get started. Authors are Allison Herrick, doctoral candidate in the Department of Animal Sciences; Shannon Neibergs, director of the Western Center for Risk Management Education and Extension specialist; and Holly Neibergs, professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Revised: Crop Protection Guide for Tree Fruits in Washington (EB0419)

The 2025 edition of the Crop Protection Guide covers examples of registered pesticides used to stop orchard insect, disease, and weed pests in Washington, and includes efficacy and toxicity charts. Cost is $27.

View more original and revised guides online at the WSU Extension Publications website.

Source : wsu.edu

Video: A Day in the Life of a Barn Manager

We go behind the scenes with Travis, a dedicated barn manager in Manitoba’s hog sector. He plays a key role in making sure pigs are well cared for, that operations run smoothly, and that his team stays safe and supported.

Discover how the role of a barn manager fits into the wider story of the pork industry’s impact in our province:
Over 22,000 Manitobans depend on the hog sector for for a high-quality, well-paying job.
The sector contributes more than $2.3 billion annually to Manitoba’s GDP.
It accounts for roughly 55% of all agriculture & food-manufacturing jobs in the province.

Want to explore a career in this fast-moving, meaningful industry? Visit www.manitobapork.com/careers to learn about opportunities, training pathways, and how you can be part of it too.