Bermudagrass stem maggot, a new invasive pest, has been found across much of the Southeast. First identified in Georgia in 2010, bermudagrass stem maggot is a pest that cattle and forage producers need to learn how to manage.

A webinar,  Biology and Management of Bermudagrass Stem Maggot, will be held at 10 a.m. CST on Wednesday, Feb. 6. This webinar is an excellent opportunity for cattle and forage producers to get an update on the bermudagrass stem maggot.

Drs. William Hudson and Dennis Hancock from the University of Georgia will discuss the status of this new invasive pest and provide research-based information on what is known about its biology and management. Questions for the speakers can be submitted during the webinar via e-mail and will be answered during the webinar.

The webinar will be recorded so it can be viewed at any time after Feb. 6.

(Montgomery, Al)  January 14, 2013 ---- The USDA Forest Service is conducting controlled burns during the winter and spring seasons on approximately 115,000 acres throughout Alabama’s four national forests – Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega and Tuskegee. Trained fire specialists use controlled burns as a forest management tool to restore forests and protect communities from wildfires. The controlled burn or “good fire” is carefully planned and implemented under favorable weather conditions.  The Forest Service is asking the public to use their low beam lights if they encounter smoke on roads and watch for uniformed Forest Service personnel and equipment.  Visibility may be reduced because of smoke settling at night in low lying areas.

The Alabama Conservation Advisory Board will hold its first scheduled meeting of 2013 on Saturday, February 9, in the State Capitol Auditorium in Montgomery, Ala. Registration for those wishing to address the board will be from 8 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., and the meeting will begin promptly at 9 a.m. Visitors should use the entrance behind the Capitol on North Union Street.
 
The Conservation Advisory Board assists in formulating policies for the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), examines all rules and regulations, and makes recommendations for their change or amendment. This includes hunting seasons and bag limits.
 
The board is comprised of 10 members appointed by the governor for alternating terms of six years. Dan Moultrie of Verbena, Ala., currently serves as chairman.