Each season brings new challenges and pest problems in crop production. One way to stay informed and effectively manage any problem is to sign up for the weekly “Crop and Pest Report.” Each issue of the report contains valuable information about insect and disease problems, pest alerts, integrated pest management strategies, pesticide updates, agronomy and fertility issues, horticulture problems, reports from the NDSU Plant Diagnostic Laboratory and a weather outlook. (Photo of a soybean research plot at Carrington REC)

Annuals and perennials are an excellent source of color and accent to North Dakota landscapes. They come in different colors, sizes and varieties. Plants can be chosen for shady, sunny, dry or wet locations. (Jack Frost Perennial photo by NDSU Extension Service)

The National Weather Service says some areas of North Dakota may see flooding this spring. Are you prepared? Being prepared will help minimize the damage if you do get flooded. Your planning should include knowing how to protect your family, property and livestock. Check your sump pump, floor drains and electric generator if you have one. (NDSU Photo)

Backgrounding feeder cattle is a common practice in North Dakota. The practice is used to add value to home-raised feeds and calves by marketing feeds through the cattle. Feed efficiency and feed cost are the two most important factors that determine cost of gain. Following some feeding guidelines can lower the cost of gain.

If you’re looking for adventure this summer, try the 4-H camp near Washburn. Any youth can attend a variety of camps to have fun while developing lifelong skills, trying new activities, learning the importance of a healthy lifestyle and discovering what they can accomplish, all in a safe environment. Check out the possibilities!

Growing lentils or other legumes in a diverse cropping system may improve soil health, and provide for an opportunity to control problem weeds such as downy brome and other grassy annual weeds. Lentils are used primarily in soups, salads, casseroles and stews and are a good source of protein. (Carrington REC photo)

Our large intestine (colon) is home to 100 trillion “friendly” bacteria. These bacteria help defend us against disease, make certain vitamins such as vitamin K, and help break down extra food residue that remains after digestion in the small intestine. This process is known as fermentation. Our bacteria can become imbalanced due to stress, diarrhea, changes in diet and antibiotics. Consuming fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, probiotics and prebiotics can help our bacteria stay within a healthy balance.

(Photo courtesy Julie Garden-Robinson)

Including whole grains in your diet on a regular basis is associated with lower body weight and the reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes and some types of cancer. Whole grains are good for you and North Dakota.  North Dakota leads the nation in the production of durum wheat, spring wheat and barley.

Need some last-minute holiday gifts? Or do you have some hard-to-buy-for people on your list? Then consider giving homemade beverage,soup, quick bread or cookie mixes. Beverage mixes in a jar are a great way to enjoy an inexpensive, tasty, hot drink at home. Food mixes make fun, economical and practical gifts. (Photo courtesy of of Alice Henneman, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension)

Diabetes continues to be a growing problem in the U.S. In North Dakota, more than 37,000 people live with the disease. Extension agents team up with certified diabetes educators or registered dietitians in a program called Dining With Diabetes North Dakota Style that teaches North Dakotans suffering from or at risk of developing diabetes how to make the lifestyle changes they need to manage the disease.