Monthly Archives: October 2011

Gophers and Moles

Posted on October 31, 2011 by smithcountyagriculture

Gopher Mole Ag Biz By: Chad Gulley County Extension Agent–Ag/NR Smith County Gophers or Moles…That is the Question We get numerous calls from homeowners concerning gophers and moles in the home lawn. Can they be controlled? How do I know which one I have or do I have both? Gophers are burrowing rodents which live almost entirely underground primarily feeding on fleshy roots of various plants. Gophers will also consume tubers such as potatoes and peanuts. Gophers, with their stout forelegs and strong curved claws,… Read More →

Livestock for Small Acreage Landowners

Posted on October 24, 2011 by smithcountyagriculture

News Article By: Chad Gulley County Extension Agent–Ag/NR Livestock for Small Acreage Landowners Rural areas of Texas are being rapidly developed and urbanized. Many urban dwellers want to escape to the country to live a quiet, peaceful life or enjoy recreational opportunities on their own land. Many large tracts in rural areas are being divided into properties of 5 to 100 acres; many are fewer than 20 acres. Many rural landowners almost always want to maintain or obtain an ad valorem tax exemption, which is most… Read More →

Twig Girdlers

Posted on October 18, 2011 by smithcountyagriculture

Ag Biz News Column By: Chad Gulley County Extension Agent—Ag/NR Smith County Twig Girdlers Have you recently noticed several limbs of your pecans, hickory and other nut trees being cut off as if someone cut it off with a sharp pocket knife? You have an insect called the Twig Girdler. Twig Girdlers are common throughout most of Texas. The damage caused by these insects usually either results in complaints or evokes curiosity. Most people do not even realize they have this insect until winter months when… Read More →