Ida County News
The Master Gardener Minute (Posted on 5/9/2008)
Take a minute to check out this site for weekly Master Gardener updates and announcements. 
Tips for Planning Receptions and Parties (Posted on 5/9/2008)
Spring and summer is when families and friends gather for graduations, weddings, picnics and barbeques. It is a time for fun and memories. Iowa State University Extension has tips for your decision making need to have a safe and happy celebration. 
Simplify Your Life (Posted on 5/9/2008)
The average American uses far more than his or her share of our planet’s resources. Choosing simplicity involves clearing away clutter that detracts from the true purpose and beauty of your life. 
Put Some "Fun" In Your Relationship (Posted on 5/9/2008)
When was the last time you did something together with your spouse or partner that was fun? With a little effort and planning, couples can put some fun into their relationship, says Donna Donald, a family life specialist with Iowa State University Extension. 
Tips for Saving Money at the Grocery Store (Posted on 5/9/2008)
If the total on the register at the grocery store is lightening your checkbook more than you would like, there are some strategies that may help to reduce what you spend. 
Advanced Swine Reproduction Seminar set for Western Iowa (Posted on 5/9/2008)
Pork producers interested in learning more about new technology and management methods to help achieve a high and efficient sow reproductive rate, should plan to attend an advanced swine reproduction seminar in South Sioux City, Neb., on June 10.
Open Class Fairbook Now Available On-Line! (Posted on 5/9/2008)
Welcome to the on-line version of the 2008 Ida County Open Class Fair Book! Whether you have a flair for vegetables, flowers, needlework, or crafts the Ida County Fair has just the class for you to display your talents. 
2008 Ida County 4-H Fair Book (Posted on 5/6/2008)
It's Here! The 2008 "on-line" version of the Ida County 4-H Fair Book has arrived. The 2008 updated version is available at this site with user-friendly sections and resource links to access. 
Field and Feedlot Newsletter (Posted on 5/5/2008)
Check out this newsletter prepared by ISUE Farm and Livestock Specialists for research-based information to help you with your ag decision-making needs. 
Frequently Requested Publications (Posted on 5/5/2008)
Land Value Surveys, Cash Rental Rates, Custom Farm Rates, Herbicide Guides, Consumer Information, Gardening & Horticulture Tips are just a few of the frequently requested resources from the Ida County Extension Office. Check out this link to quickly access these publications and many more! 
NW Iowa Crop Update Newsletter (Posted on 5/5/2008)
Joel DeJong, ISU Extension Crops Specialist, has produced a crops newsletter with timely topics for farmers, ag producers and others across Northwest Iowa. The most recent newsletter as well as archived previous editions may be found on this link. 
Crop Connections Newsletter (Posted on 5/5/2008)
This newsletter is intended to provide timely information for crop producers and agribusiness consults regarding all facets of row crop, forage and pasture production. 
Food for Fitness and Fun (Posted on 5/5/2008)
ISU Extension has easy to prepare recipes, fun activities,
and healthy tips to help you and your family stay fit. Check out this link to find the current and archived newsletters with research based information on these and other wellness related topics. 
Insects, Weeds, Plant Disease ... Oh My! (Posted on 5/5/2008)
If you have questions about insects, plant disease, plant identification, weed management and/or wildlife management let ISU Extension offer you the latest research based information for these horticultural topics and more. 
Free Web Course Helps You Get the Most From Your Money (Posted on 5/5/2008)
A free online course, offered through Iowa State University Extension, is helping people get a grip on their money. The course – Take Control of Your Money – makes it possible to learn money management skills in the privacy of home. The 7-step process covers spending habits, getting out of debt, and increasing savings. 
May is Beef Month and More! (Posted on 4/30/2008)
While many people celebrate graduations, confirmations, and first communions in May, here is a list of other celebrations for the Month of May with links to their activities and events. These range from Beef Month in Iowa to National Asthma Awareness Month. 
Class of 2008 - Graduation Gift Ideas! (Posted on 4/30/2008)
If you are looking over those graduation announcements and wondering what gift to give that special graduate, take a look at some suggestions we have put together to help with your decision-making needs. 
Start Smart -- an FDIC Resource for Teens (Posted on 4/29/2008)
If you're a teen-ager, learning how to save, spend and protect your cash is one of the most important things you can do. The FDIC (Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation) has developed a new guide called "Start Smart: Money Management for Teens." 
Subprime Lending Receives Attention (Posted on 4/29/2008)
Subprime lending is receiving attention in the news as major financial institutions who invested heavily in this commodity now have to deal with increased numbers of foreclosures. 
Promote Positive Self Esteem for Girls and Their Moms (Posted on 4/29/2008)
Girl Talk promotes positive self-esteem while helping fifth and sixth grade girls and their moms/caregivers develop and practice communication skills. Read on for more information about this program from ISU Extension in Ida County. 
Extension Tip of the Week (Posted on 4/28/2008)
Extension Tip of the Week (TOW) is a feature that can be sent to you directly by e-mail. These tips, sent weekly, will be brief and timely, cover a variety of topics. 
ISU Extension Book Receives Arbor Day Foundation Award (Posted on 4/22/2008)
“The Forest Where Ashley Lives,” a children’s book published by Iowa State University Extension, has received an Education Award from the Arbor Day Foundation, a nonprofit education and conservation organization.
ISU Offers Master Gardener Summer Session (Posted on 4/18/2008)
If you want to know more about trees, gardening, plant diseases, insect diagnosis, vegetables, turfgrass, fruits and the latest in horticultural research ISU has just the program for you! 
After Tax Season Advice (Posted on 4/17/2008)
With the passing of “tax season” many people think hard about their finances. Some people face financial CRISIS as holiday bills piled up. Some people set new goals or resolutions at the new year. Some people take an honest look at their total debt or total income. Some people simply say “It's time for a fresh start with my finances.” Does one of these descriptions fit you? If so, read on for financial tips from ISU Extension. 
Planning Rebate Use Can Benefit Personal Finances (Posted on 4/17/2008)
Americans are considering how to use their government rebate money — the economic stimulus payments the federal government is sending out after May 15. ISU Extension specialist says take time to plan how to use the rebate money. 
Beef Producer Tour Features Facility Designs (Posted on 4/16/2008)
Hoop, mono-slope or open beef feedlot – which is the right facility for a cattle producer? This was the big question featured in “Cattle Farming Matters – a Forum and Feedlot Tour” for Northwest Iowa cattle feeders and agri-business staff. 
Time For a Place of Your Own? (Posted on 4/9/2008)
Purchasing a home is probably the biggest purchase you'll ever make. It's an exciting experience and not a simple task. Extension's online course will help you decide if now is a good time to buy a home, prepare for the home buying process and shop for a mortgage that works for you. 
More Soybeans, Less Corn Expected in 2008 (Posted on 4/9/2008)
ISU Extension agronomist comments on USDA report that Iowa farmers will plant 1.25 million more acres of soybeans in 2008 and 1 million fewer acres of corn. 
It's Time for Spring Yard & Garden Chores (Posted on 4/4/2008)
After a long (seemingly endless) winter, spring has finally arrived. While spring is an enjoyable time, there are a number of outdoor chores that need to be done to enhance our yards and gardens. These chores include applying preemergence herbicides to lawns, dividing perennials, removing mulch from strawberries, pruning roses and many others. 
Will Insurance Protect You From Storm Damage? (Posted on 4/4/2008)
A tree fell on the roof, strong winds blew out the car windows, the sewer backed up into the basement. Storm damage comes in many forms. Will insurance cover the damage?
Iowa Ag Review Available On Line (Posted on 3/11/2008)
Iowa Ag Review is published by the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development. This publication presents summarized results that emphasize the implications of ongoing agricultural policy analysis, analysis of the near-term agricultural situation, and discussion of agricultural policies currently under consideration. 
Youth Hunter Education Opportunity (Posted on 3/11/2008)
Whether you are a youth, aged 12-19, an adult with a desire to contribute time to your community, or a member of an organization or business looking for youth-oriented project, if you have an interest in hunting and the outdoors, Iowa YHEC is an opportunity you don't want to miss! 
Need Help With Bugs, Bugging You? (Posted on 3/10/2008)
When it comes to delivering information to people who need it, the Department of Entomology is at the forefront. Our extension personnel bring timely programs to locations throughout Iowa, and our science-based recommendations to Iowa's growers are conveniently available online. Whether it is pests around your home, garden or field...Let ISU Extension offer you help. 
ISU Economist Offers Analysis of Crop Market Fluctuations (Posted on 3/10/2008)
Strong demand for U.S.-grown corn and soybeans, both for export markets and for biofuel production, is the cause of upward pressure on prices for those commodities, according to Chad Hart, an agricultural economist at the Center for Agricultural and Rural Development at Iowa State University. 
Crop Insurance to Cost More in 2008 (Posted on 3/10/2008)
Iowa State University Extension economist William Edwards says crop insurance will be more costly in 2008, due to the increasing value of the crops that will be insured. Purchase deadline is March 17. 
Raising Healthy Kids (Posted on 3/10/2008)
Raising Healthy Kids is a series of publications designed to help parents, communities, and childcare providers address important health and nutrition questions.
Too Busy to Get More Physical Activity and Nutrition Information? (Posted on 3/10/2008)
A common excuse for not getting more physical activity and making better nutritional choices is the lack of time. “In research examining barriers to making healthy behavior change, individuals frequently mention lack of time,” says Ruth Litchfield, Iowa State University Extension nutrition specialist. 
Develop Markets for Fruits and Vegetables (Posted on 3/10/2008)
Producers interested in learning how to market local fruits and vegetables to foodservice and retail distributors are invited to attend one of a series of meetings sponsored by ISU Extension. 
2008 Iowa Farm Custom Rate (Posted on 3/5/2008)
Many Iowa farmers hire some custom machine work in their farm business or perform custom work for others. The attached information is based on a survey of 185 Iowa farmers, custom operators, and farm managers. 
Community & Economic Development Quarterly Newsletter (Posted on 2/20/2008)
ISU Extension Community and Economic Development quarterly publication is available at this link. ISU Extension provides this tool to assist Iowa leaders with information to help their communities advance with the times. 
Your Retirement is in Your Hands (Posted on 2/7/2008)
American workers increasingly need to take responsibility for their own retirement savings, usually through a 401k, an IRA or a similar tax-preferred investment. What steps do you need to take? No matter where you are in your retirement planning process, you'll find useful information in ISU Extension's publication series.
Smart Uses for Your Tax Refund (Posted on 2/7/2008)
New computer? New recliner? Nice vacation?
Those are all great ideas. But before you spend the money, try to think through all the options - even the ones that aren't especially exciting or glamorous. ISU Extension has information to help you make those decisions. 
Consumer Privacy: Who's Got Your Number (Posted on 2/7/2008)
Protecting our personal information has become an essential skill for living in our society, yet not everyone has heard about the steps we can take to protect ourselves. From taking our Social Security number off our drivers' licenses and other documents to reducing the junk mail and telemarketing calls we receive, there is much we can do to protect ourselves. 
Wind Energy Production: Legal Issues and Related Concerns for Landowners (Posted on 2/6/2008)
Farmers have long used wind energy.Today, rural landowners in suitable areas are utilizing wind energy in a different manner. By leasing out or granting easements over a portion of their land to wind energy developers they can diversify their income and provide some stability to the variability of farm income. However, wind farming presents numerous legal issues that landowners must consider carefully before entering into an agreement with a wind development company. 
Need Information Quickly? (Posted on 1/29/2008)
When you need expert answers in a hurry, rely on Iowa State University Extension Hotlines. Select this easy button or the blue text for links to these Hotlines. 
WOMEN’S AG NETWORKING EDUCATION TEAM (NET) (Posted on 1/25/2008)
The Iowa Women in Agriculture programs’ intent is to identify the unique needs of women who are involved in agricultural production and in agribusiness and to provide the network of resources and expertise necessary to successfully meet those needs.The Women’s Ag Networking Team (NET) is an internet based networking system where women can receive answers to their questions from a panel of experts via email. 
Have You Heard, Extension is in the News? (Posted on 1/23/2008)
Check out these links to Extension news releases for the latest happenings with ISU Extension. Whether you are into grape vines, p-index levels, finances, or childcare...this site has it all. 
4-H Volunteer Training Available On-Line (Posted on 1/6/2008)
Volunteering for 4-H just got easier. Training is now available online or by DVD for those volunteers whose schedules keep them from attending the face to face trainings in their county. 
Just in Time Parenting (Posted on 12/20/2007)
When can a baby eat solid foods? How do you know when a baby has an ear infection? eXtension’s new online resource, Just in Time Parenting, provides round-the-clock access to information and experts. 
Average Value of Iowa Farmland Tops $3,900 an Acre in 2007 Survey (Posted on 12/19/2007)
The average value of an acre of farmland in Iowa increased by just over $700 during the past year, to an all-time high of $3,908, according to an annual survey conducted by Iowa State University (ISU) Extension.The increases in values were reported statewide, with the survey recording averages above $5,000 an acre in five counties, and between $4,000 and $5,000 an acre in 51 counties. The land boom is being driven by the developing biofuel economy, according to Mike Duffy, ISU Extension farm economist who conducts the survey.
CEUs Available for Childcare Providers (Posted on 12/19/2007)
Ida County Extension offers CEUs for Childcare Providers. Check-out these Self Study Kits at the Extension Office. The kit cost is $5 (which includes one certificate) and the CEU's are optional for an additional fee. The check out time is 5 days. 
Teach Your Preschooler About Spending & Saving (Posted on 11/14/2007)
Thrive by FiveTM: Teaching Your Preschooler About Spending and Saving--free activities and other resources for parents who want to encourage healthy attitudes about money in young children. 
I SPY... Iowa State Programs and Activities for Youth Pre K-12 (Posted on 11/14/2007)
I SPY some fun for little red Cys! If you are looking for programs and activities designed with your children in mind you have come to the right place. Check out these Iowa State Programs for Youth (ISPY) offered in the summer and as continuous events. 
2007 Annual Report to Ida County Stakeholders (Posted on 10/9/2007)
To access the 2007 Ida County Annual Stakeholder Report with program highlights please follow this link. Here you will see examples of Ida County Extension at work to support healthy families, economies and environments. You will also find out how we celebrated ISU's 150th birthday with Sesquicentennial celebrations in each of the 5 Ida communities. 
Join 4-H!! (Posted on 10/8/2007)
If you or someone you know is interested in joining 4-H this is a great place to start for information about the Ida County 4-H Program. Check out the links we have created for enrollment, re-enrollment and club support. 
Financial Security for All (Posted on 10/8/2007)
Check out eXtension’s Financial Security for All Web site to find information on attaining personal financial security. Learn about everything from investing, retirement, and estate planning to household records, teaching children about money and on-line calculation tools. 
Let ISU Extension Help You With Farm Leasing Questions (Posted on 8/26/2007)
Are you struggling to determine cash rental rates, understand Iowa Farm Land Lease Law, or are you in need of a Flexible Lease Agreement? If so, check out these links created by Ida County Extension. 
ISU Offers Home Buyers Certification Course On-Line (Posted on 6/25/2007)
The American dream of homeownership is an exciting experience, but it may be challenging. According to Mary Yearns, ISU Extension housing specialist and course author, “A Place of Your Own lets you focus on finding a home that fits your needs and your budget. It will help you prepare for the home-buying process and shop for a mortgage that works for you.” 
Tips for Writing Your 4-H Project Goals (Posted on 4/26/2007)
If you need help writing your 4-H Project Goals, getting ideas for fair entries in your project areas, or determining what project areas in which to enroll ... check out this site. 
GirLinks @ Iowa State (Posted on 4/26/2007)
GirLinks is an online mentoring program where high school girls (grades 9-12) interested in science, math, engineering, and technology can talk with wonderful female undergraduate students in these fields, one on one, vial email. 
Let These Tools Simplify Your Calculations (Posted on 4/6/2007)
Whether you need quick conversion charts, corn nitrogen rate calculations, soil management and residue calculations or an animal unit calculator you have come to the right resource with Iowa State University Extension. 
ISU Beginning Farmer Center Transitions Next Generation Farmers (Posted on 1/31/2007)
The Beginning Farmer Center focuses exclusively on the needs and issues facing beginning farmers. This Center facilitates the matching of beginning farmers with existing farmers who want to transition their farm businesses to the next generation. 
ISU Offers Small Business Development Center (Posted on 1/31/2007)
Since 1981, the Iowa Small Business Development Centers have provided expert and confidential business counseling services to entrepreneurs in all 99 Iowa counties. As an outreach program for the College of Business the SBDC can help existing business owners and entrepreneurs with the assistance and resources they need. 
Statistics Available for Economic Impact of Agriculture in Ida County (Posted on 1/31/2007)
Iowa State University (ISU) Extension specialists have developed a set of fact sheets that provide county-specific numbers on the role agriculture plays in the economy of Iowa. To find Ida County's data and others check out the links we have made to these pages. 
Start Your ISU Adventures Here (Posted on 1/22/2007)
Considering Iowa State University for your college education? Let Ida County Extension help you with this decision. 
Ida County 4-H Foundation (Posted on 10/6/2006)
The Ida County 4-H Foundation was established in 2004 to provide funds and support for the Ida County Extension 4-H program. Our mission is to support a strong and vital 4-H program in Ida County. 
Customized 4-H Memory Books Available (Posted on 6/22/2006)
Are you looking for a unique new way to organize your 4-H highlights? If you are a 4-Her, club historian, leader, or parent interested in creatively tailoring your 4-H memories into a book check out this new 4-H book template. 4-H history, fun facts, trivia, and photos are included along with your own personalized memories to design and print in a book for your unique needs or can be created for a club. 
Ida County Poverty and Food Needs Profile (Posted on 5/18/2006)
For information regarding Ida County demographics, food accessibility, food-related health issues, and food assistance programs check out this profile.
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