Free Workshop on Warm-Season Grasses for Forage Growers

By Blake Jackson

Forage growers looking to enhance their pastures with warm-season grasses can attend a free workshop on February 11 in Mount Vernon, Missouri.

Tim Schnakenberg, an agronomy specialist with the University of Missouri Extension, stated that the event will focus on warm-season grass varieties that thrive in southwestern Missouri.

Attendees will gain insight into the advantages of these grasses for grazing, hay production, and wildlife. Additionally, producers will learn how these grasses offer greater drought resilience compared to other forage options.

“This workshop will cover many aspects of how to effectively use warm season grasses such as big bluestem, Eastern gama grass, Indian grass, switchgrass, crabgrass and Bermuda grass on farms starting from establishment through their use for pasture or hay,” said Schnakenberg.

Speakers will include Schnakenberg, Jay Steele from the Missouri Department of Conservation, and Mike and Drew Meier, who successfully grow forage crabgrass in Monett.

The event is scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at MU’s Southwest Research, Extension, and Education Center in Mount Vernon.

While the workshop is free, participants are encouraged to pre-register to ensure meal availability. To register, call 417-357-6812 or visit https://extension.missouri.edu/events/warm-season-grass-workshop by February 7.

The event is sponsored by the Native Grass Group, a collaboration between MU Extension and the Missouri Department of Conservation.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-imaginegolf