Oct. 18 show to offer free hay analysis

Hay producers in Lampasas, Burnet and Llano counties are encouraged to enter the Central Texas Hay show Oct. 18 at the Burnet County Fair Barn.

Participants will receive a free protein analysis of their hay, helping them compare to other area producers and prepare for winter supplemental feeding.

Along with a protein analysis, entrants will receive leaf and stem tests on their samples. Participants also will receive data on hay color, maturity and any foreign material.

The top two entries in each category will advance to the Texas State Hay Show in December. Producers are limited to one entry per class but may enter as many classes as they choose.

Each sample should be one standard square bale or a composite sample of a round bale. Entry forms are available at the Lampasas and Burnet County Texas Cooperative Extension offices.

All hay samples must be delivered to one of the following locations by Oct. 4: Lampasas County Show Barn (call the Lampasas Extension Office to arrange delivery), Burnet Feed & Supply, Triple C Feed & Supply in Burnet, Crownover Feed & Supply in Marble Falls, Ranchers Feed & Supply in Bertram or Wilson's Feed & Supply in Marble Falls.

Along with the hay analysis, the show will offer an educational program with five CEUs for pesticide license holders. Topics wil include pesticide laws and regulations, controlled burns to improve grasses and other issues.

The program will begin Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. at the Burnet County Fair Barn. Cost to attend the educational program is $6, which includes a barbecue meal. Hay show results and awards will be given after the meal and educational program.

For more information on the pesticide class, contact the Burnet County Extension Office at (512) 756-5463 by Oct. 14. For information on the hay show, phone the Texas Cooperative Extension's Lampasas office at 556-8271.