Grazing Effects On Wheat Varieties.

One common demonstration agricultural extension agents conduct in Kansas is a wheat variety trial. Many extension agents perform these demonstrations out of expectation and are not fully engaged in the process. This trial was initiated to 1) increase interest in agronomy research from extension agents with an animal science background, 2) evaluate grazing performance of wheat varieties to generate data important to specific extension programs/regions, and 3) compare spring and fall grazing and the effect on biomass yield and grain yield. Two experimental sites were established in Harper County and Clark County, KS. These trials were replicated twice at each location with at least 18 different wheat varieties planted that are common to the area. Livestock were prohibited from grazing one third of the plot at each location. At the Barber County site, livestock were allowed to graze one third of the plot during the fall only. The remainder of the plot at both sites was grazed until the spring. Biomass yield, grain yield, grain test weight, and grain moisture was evaluated. Differences in varieties were evaluated as well as the change in biomass and grain yield as a result of grazing. One significant outcome of this trial was engaging the extension agents and community.