Explore every episode of the podcast Cow Talks

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau is joined by Dr. Clyde Fraisse, professor of agrometeorology in UF's Agricultural and Biological Engineering Department, to break down the strong El Niño forming in the Pacific and what it could mean for Florida this fall, winter, and spring. They discuss the higher odds of above-average rainfall along with why this may be a good year to invest in cool-season forages.

Description:

Marcelo Wallau talks with a panel of industry agronomists and nutritionists about growing corn and sorghum silage in the Southeast. They cover this season's challenges, such as late frosts, dry weather, nematodes, and the tight timelines dairies work underm and what those mean for fiber digestibility. The group also discusses where sorghum fits in the rotation and why hybrid selection matters less than solid management and a good crew.

In this Cow Bites technical segment, host Marcelo Wallau sits down with Maria Elena Mailhos, variety trial coordinator for the UF/IFAS Forage Team, to walk through the results of the 2025–26 cool-season forage variety trials.

Trial results, reports, and the three-year regional recommendations (developed with the University of Georgia and Auburn University) are available on the UF/IFAS Forage Team website: https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/forage/official-variety-trials/

Questions? Reach the team at forages@ifas.ufl.edu, or come see the varieties in the field at the annual cool-season forage field day in late February.

Crop insurance is an increasingly important tool for managing the production and price risks facing farmers and ranchers. In this episode, Dr. Hunter Biram of the University of Arkansas breaks down how federal crop insurance works and how it complements Farm Service Agency programs. The episode dives into discussion about what producers should know about coverage options. The conversation also explores Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage (PRF) insurance, livestock risk protection, basis risk, and how cattle producers can use these programs to manage production challenges.

The links to the workbook and Hunter's podcast can be found below:

The Fundamentals of Federal Crop Insurance: https://www.uaex.uada.edu/publications/pdf/MP576.pdf 

Morning Coffee and Ag Markets Podcast: https://fryar-risk-center.uada.edu/podcast/ 

Hannah Baker speaks with Dr. Marcelo Wallau about the latest pressures facing the U.S. beef cattle industry, from the announcement of increased beef imports to the reopening of the Mexican border and recent beef packing plant closures. They discuss how these developments are affecting cattle prices and decisions about herd rebuilding. Given the market turmoil, producers are left navigating a great deal of uncertainty, which this episode aims to clarify. 

Pasture mealybug continues to spread across Florida, with new detections raising questions about how the pest is moving and why damage is appearing in some pastures but not others. In this update, Dr. Brent Sellers and Dr. Isaac Esquivel discuss the latest field observations, early detection, insecticide use, and strategies for managing affected pastures during the stockpiling season. They also share emerging findings and highlight the many questions researchers are still working to answer.

In this presentation, Dr. Mary Beth Hall explores how Florida's unique growing conditions shape forage quality and availability. She discusses the importance of balancing digestibility and effective fiber to support rumen function, while considering how forage type, maturity, processing and environmental conditions affect animal performance. The presentation also examines practical considerations for both dairy and beef cattle producers.

How can producers reduce winter feeding costs while maintaining forage quality? In this episode of Our Research in Perspective, UF graduate researcher Olivia Centanni shares findings from her master's research on fall forage stockpiling, rumen digestibility, and silage production in warm-season grasses.

Learn which forage species perform best and why fertilization timing matters. Olivia also draws on her data findings, and how these management decisions can improve both cattle nutrition and profitability.

In this special joint episode with Grazing the Facts, host Dale Sandlin sits down with Marcelo for an in-depth conversation about the future of forage management in Florida.Marcelo shares his journey from growing up on a cattle ranch in southern Brazil to leading statewide forage extension and research programs in Florida. The discussion explores practical strategies for improving pasture productivity while also increasing forage diversity, and building resilient grazing systems in the face changing weather conditions across the state.The episode also highlights research supported by the Florida Cattle Enhancement Board, including forage variety trials and the importance of helping producers make science-based management decisions that improve both profitability and sustainability.

On July 17th 2026, UF IFAS Forages joined FDACS and the Everglades Research and Education center for an informative webinar on pasture mealybug science, management, and what we know so far.For more information, please visit: https://go.ufl.edu/pasturemealybugs

Recorded live at the 2026 Florida Cattlemen's Convention in Marco Island, this special episode features Dr. Marcelo Wallau's presentation on his firsthand experience growing up with New World screwworm in southern Brazil. He shares practical lessons on proactive management that can help Florida producers. He also provides an update on the recently detected pasture mealybug, discussing what researchers know so far about its spread and the ongoing efforts to develop effective management strategies. Whether you're a cattle producer, forage manager, or simply interested in invasive species, tune in for timely insights into Florida agriculture. 

As New World screwworm continues spreading north through Mexico toward the U.S., entomologist Dr. Andrew Short joins Cow Talks during the Florida Cattlemen's Convention in Marco Island, FL, with Dale Sandlin and Marcelo Wallau to explain what the latest detections mean for Florida and the Southeast. The conversation covers how the pest spreads and why increased surveillance and rapid reporting are critical to protecting livestock. Dr. Short also discusses ongoing coordination among state and federal agencies and producer outreach to ensure the region is prepared should screwworm reach producers. 

Relevant links: More on Dale and AGNet here: https://southeastagnet.com/author/dsandlin/

Listen to Grazing the Facts here: https://southeastagnet.com/grazing-the-facts-podcast/

New World Screwworm from FDACS here: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm

In Part 2 of Rethinking Forage Systems, Dr. Mary Beth Hall joins Marcelo Wallau for a deeper discussion on balancing starch, sugars, protein, and fiber to support healthier cows and more resilient dairy systems. The conversation explores practical nutrition strategies for managing heat stress and making better use of locally available feed resources. They also take a broader look at the future of animal agriculture, discussing the essential role ruminants play in feeding a growing world.

Recorded just after the Corn Silage and Forage Field Day in late May, this episode features Dr. Mary Beth Hall, consultant with The Cows Are Always Right and former USDA/UF researcher, joining hosts Marcelo Wallau and Diwakar Vyas for a deep dive into dairy forage systems. Dr. Hall challenges the idea of a single "best" forage, instead encouraging producers to ask what role each forage should play — digestibility versus physical effectiveness — within the diet. The conversation covers Florida's forage-deficit dairy environment, how low-forage rations should be formulated differently than northern U.S. recommendations, and current shifts to protect rumen health.

Dr. Erin Powell, scale insect taxonomist with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services' Division of Plant Industry (FDACS DPI), joins Cow Talks to discuss the pasture mealybug (Heliococcus summervillei), a new invasive pest now confirmed in 14 Florida counties and expanding. Erin breaks down the insect's biology, life cycle, and likely origins, along with how it's spreading through shared equipment, sprigging practices, and roadside mowing. The episode also covers what producers and the public can do to slow its spread, the importance of reporting suspected infestations, and why caution is needed with insecticide use to protect natural enemies. To report a suspected mealybug or learn how to submit a sample, visit this link: https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Plant-Pests-and-Diseases/How-to-Submit-a-Sample-for-Identification or reach out to your local extension office or forages@ifas.ufl.edu.

Bermuda grass stem maggot can silently strip between 30-50% of your forage yield during peak growing season. Dr. Lisa Baxter, UGA forage specialist, breaks down how to stay ahead of this pest through variety selection, cultural practices, and timely pyrethroid applications — plus where fall armyworm management overlaps. 

For more information, check out UGA's EDIS equivalent: https://fieldreport.caes.uga.edu/publications/B1484/managing-bermudagrass-stem-maggots/

Updated recommendations: https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/cft2.20269

The invasive pasture mealybug has made its way to Florida. Isaac Esquivel and Texas integrated pest management specialist Stephen Biles discuss the recent detection of pasture mealybug in Florida and what it means for forage producers across the Southeast.

Drawing on Texas' experience with the invasive pest, Biles explains how pasture mealybug spreads and the warning signs producers should watch for, including red or yellowing leaves and rapid pasture decline. The conversation highlights the insect's movement through equipment and livestock as well as the challenges of detecting infestations before significant damage occurs.

Tune in for some practical recommendations of how to prevent its spread and contraction.

Relevant links:

https://agrilifeextension.tamu.edu/pasture-mealybug/

Many forage systems are unprepared for climate volatility, yet smart diversification and management can turn these challenges into opportunities. In this  episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Liliane Silva from Clemson University reveals how integrating warm-season annuals like pearl millet, sorghum, and legumes can fill forage gaps during droughts and extreme weather events. With recent setbacks caused by drought, hurricanes, and unseasonal cold, these insights on resilient forage mixes and strategic planning might just be the game-changer to secure livestock security this season.

Links:

Clemson Extension: https://www.clemson.edu/extension/livestock/programs/

Forage Drops Social Media: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2fj2-Vnat-_GR6rFmLz8Aghttps://www.instagram.com/foragedrops/

If you're feeling the squeeze from drought, freeze, or hurricane season, this episode is your essential guide to unlocking assistance tips. Discover how the USDA Farm Services Agency assesses and declares disasters, and why timely reporting from producers is crucial for accessing relief programs before the crisis hits. Marcelo Wallau sits down with Marcinda Kessler, executive director of the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) to break down the complex process of disaster declarations — from the drought monitor to local county reports, and how these trigger funding that can mean the difference between survival and bankruptcy. You’ll learn specific strategies for navigating both emergency disaster relief loans and non-insurable crop assistance, including how to maximize benefits without unnecessary delays.

For more information:

 General Farmers.gov site: https://www.farmers.gov/

 How to find your local FSA office: https://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator

 How to sign-up for USDA updates and our monthly newsletter: farmers.gov/subscribe

 USDA FSA Livestock Forage Disaster Program: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/resources/disaster-recovery/livestock-forage-disaster-program-lfp

 FSA program factsheets: https://www.fsa.usda.gov/tools/informational/fact-sheets

 Doing business online with FSA: https://www.farmers.gov/account

In this episode, Marcelo speaks with Jennifer Bearden and Andrea Albertin about CHEERS, specifically, how farmers across generations can engage with the opportunities offered across the Southeast. Tune in to find out how you can get involved and gain access to a plethora of educational (and financial) resources to secure your spot in a supportive and collaborative network of agriculturalists.

For more on CHEERS:

https://cheers-hub.org/

CONTACT: https://cheers-hub.org/contact-page/

Other organizations to keep an eye on:

https://flaffa.org/

Listen to our previous episode with Ernie Shea:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/4U8JGT06NQ1nfc9VOQbjzR?si=9e4d84a6eb594c5d

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau interviews Dr. Nicolas DeLorenzo about strategies for feeding cattle during severe drought conditions, focusing on byproducts, forage management, and innovative feeding solutions to both sustain performance and reduce costs.

A widespread and intensifying drought across the Southeastern United States is forcing livestock producers to make difficult management decisions. In this episode, Drs. Marcelo Wallau and Bruno Pedreira break down what led to the current conditions, why recovery may take months, and how producers can respond—from reducing herd size to protecting stressed pastures. The conversation also explores feed strategies, hay shortages, and the risks of overgrazing during critical growth periods. Looking ahead, the suggestions are to diversify pastures.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau sits down with Ernie Shea, President of Solutions from the Land, to explore a transformative approach to modern agriculture — one that puts farmers and ranchers at the center of problem-solving rather than treating them as recipients of top-down policy. Ernie shares his decades of experience bridging the gap between government, academia, industry, and producers, and how that journey led to the creation of a farmer-scientist co-design model now taking root in Florida. Listeners will learn about the CHEERS project — redefining how we value farmland, from commodity production to ecosystem service delivery. Whether you're a producer, researcher, or ag enthusiast, this conversation will challenge the way you think about the future of sustainable agriculture.

For more on CHEERS, check out the following resources: https://cheers-hub.org/about-page/

Contact: https://cheers-hub.org/contact-page/

In this episode of our research in perspective, we speak with William Piwowarek who shares revolutionary insights on mole cricket management. Discover how understanding biology and seasonal patterns can lead to eco-friendly pest control solutions. William explains innovative biocontrol methods, like using the Larra wasp and nematodes, to transform pasture management.

Cows don't actually talk, despite our podcast name. But we brought someone who can speak out for them!

In this episode of Cow Talks, livestock extension agent Bridget Stice shares an inside look at beef cattle production in South Florida, where the majority of the state’s herd is raised. She discusses the structure of the industry—from large, multi-generational ranches to smaller, part-time operations—and the economic and environmental roles each plays. Stice highlights how producers are not only raising cattle, but also stewarding land and natural resources critical to Florida’s future.

In Part 2 of this Cow Talks series, host Marcelo Wallau and guests expand the conversation beyond immediate disaster impacts to explore long-term resilience in agriculture. The episode highlights the nationwide role of Extension networks in disaster response and the importance of thinking beyond preparedness to include recovery and adaptation. Listeners will also hear why producer input and data sharing remain critical to shaping effective disaster response and future policy.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau is joined by disaster and economics experts Drs. Christa Court and Angela Lindsey to examine the far-reaching impacts of Florida’s recent winter freeze events. From crop losses and disrupted market windows to long-term effects on livestock systems, the conversation explores how a rare combination of cold temperatures and drought led to billions in damages. This is a deep dive into how agricultural systems respond and adapt under pressure.

For more information, check out the links below.

• UF/IFAS Economic Impact Analysis Program (EIAP)https://go.ufl.edu/eiap
• UF/IFAS Disaster Impact Analysishttps://go.ufl.edu/disasters
• UF/IFAS EIAP Winter Freeze Event Resources (English + Español)https://go.ufl.edu/winter26freezeagimpacts2026https://go.ufl.edu/impactosagricolashelada2026  
• Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://extensiondisaster.net/
• Florida Extension Disaster Education Networkhttps://piecenter.com/fl-eden/
• USDA Secretarial Natural Disaster Designation (Florida - Winter Freeze Events - as of March 5, 2026)https://www.fsa.usda.gov/news-events/news/03-05-2026/usda-designates-26-florida-counties-natural-disaster-areas-due-winter 
• USDA - Farm Service Agency Service Center Locatorhttps://www.farmers.gov/working-with-us/service-center-locator

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau sits down with Tom Bryant to unpack the realities of tax planning for cattle producers. Moving beyond the April 15 deadline, they explore why effective tax strategy must happen year-round and how it can determine whether an operation is profitable or not. The conversation dives into key issues like hobby loss rules, small herd economics, and the importance of treating farming as a true business. They also break down recent policy changes and what they mean for producers today. Whether you run 10 cows or 1,000, this episode offers practical insights on planning, recordkeeping, and building a financially resilient operation.

In our episode of Cow Bites, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau unlocks the secrets to maximizing your pasture productivity this spring without risking long-term damage. If you're eager to turn your cows out now but unsure if your forage is ready, this episode reveals the critical management steps to take to ensure lush, sustainable pastures all year round in the face of fluctuating weather.

Mentioned article: https://share.google/jiuc5HTgBOXjDkxbF

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau speaks with University of Florida veterinary extension specialist João Bittar about two research projects affecting beef cattle producers across Florida. This conversation is part of our Research in Perspective series. The discussion explores the widespread presence of liver flukes in Florida herds and research testing new strategies to manage them. The episode also examines vaccination timing in pregnant heifers and how it may improve calf health through stronger colostrum.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau is joined by soil scientist Cheryl Mackowiak and Florida State Climatologist David Zierden to unpack one of Florida’s most challenging seasons in decades. From extreme drought and disrupted hurricane patterns to prolonged Arctic outbreaks linked to La Niña, the discussion explores how unusual weather patterns affected forages, fertility management, grazing decisions, and wildfire risk this winter in Florida.

Recorded live at the 41st annual Northwest Florida Beef Cattle Conference and Trade Show, this episode of Cow Talks features Marcelo Wallau of the University of Florida breaking down the fundamentals of effective pasture management in today’s volatile production landscape. With strong cattle prices but rising input costs and persistent drought, producers face a critical question: how can they remain profitable without degrading their forage base? Wallau outlines how overgrazing, skipped fertilization, and lack of system diversity quietly erode productivity and increase long-term costs.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau interviews Dr. Cecilia Rocha, a Research Assistant Professor and State Extension Specialist in Livestock Systems, about improving reproductive efficiency in beef cattle. They discuss pregnancy loss, estrus detection innovations, and how accelerometers can support herd management. Dr. Rocha also highlights the value of pregnancy checks and herd organization for producer profitability, along with emerging research and technologies for the future.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau discusses the recent outbreak of Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) with expert Dr. Sally Donata,  and extension agents Jennifer Bearden and Amanda Masholie. They explore how EHV is transmitted and the importance of biosecurity measures in equestrian events. The conversation also covers post-event protocols for horse owners to reduce the risk of exposure on farms. The experts emphasize the significance of industry response and the need for ongoing vigilance in maintaining equine health. We also discussed the emerging threat of New World Screwworm, and explained the recent news of screwworm in an imported animal, which is not related to the large issue of the expansion of the flies in Mexico, close to the Texas border.

In this episode of Cow Talks, University of Florida specialists Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Dr. Mario Binelli break down why understanding heifer maturity is one of the most powerful levers for improving reproductive and economic efficiency in Southeastern beef systems. Drawing on UF’s statewide “Know Your Heifer” project and data from over 5,000 heifers, the conversation explores how tools like reproductive tract scoring and progesterone-based protocols can dramatically improve pregnancy rates. The episode connects physiology and management offering producers practical insight into how earlier cycling and targeted reproductive technologies can lead to more resilient production systems in Florida’s environment. For more on Know Your Heifer, check out the following link: https://animal.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/beef/kyh/

In our first episode of 2026, host Marcelo Wallau welcomes Dr. Peter Ballerstedt, an advocate for forage and livestock agriculture around the world. Peter travels the world to connect with people from all areas, from farmers to physicians, from agronomist to dietitians, and educate the public about the importance livestock agriculture has in feeding a healthier and more sustainable world. Peter has been a strong advocate for animal protein-based diets as a way to combat malnourishment and metabolic disorders. Here, he shares with us a bit of his trajectory and his thoughts about how we, as farmers and educators, can engage with the public to tell our story, and share the relevance of the work we do.

Join Marcelo Wallau as he wraps up an incredible year for Cow Talks, thanking listeners and guests alike for the best season yet. Tune in for insights and a look ahead to more engaging content in the new year.

In this episode, Marcelo Wallau, Chris Prevatt, and Hannah Baker reflect on 2025 as a pivotal year for the beef cattle industry. They look back on how market trends, rising production costs, shifting consumer demand, and pressures from imports shaped the year, while examining the consequences of historically low cattle inventories. The discussion also revisits the challenges posed by screwworm and what they revealed about industry preparedness and risk management. Together, the hosts consider what 2025 taught producers and what those lessons may mean as the industry moves into 2026 and beyond.

Join us in this episode from our sister podcast, Forage Nexus, where we delve into the world of grasslands and their pivotal role in sustainable agriculture. We bring in Dr. Lynn Sollenberger, a renowned expert in forage systems. Hosted by Marcelo Wallau, Lilian Silva, and Bruno Pedreira, this episode features insights about the vast scale of grasslands, their impact on ecosystems, and the unique benefits they offer to our society and environment. 

In this episode of Our Research in Perspective, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with Renan Pedro Becker, a Master's degree student at the University of Florida. Renan is working with new tetraploid (Argentine-type) bahiagrass materials. This conversation focuses on management strategies to increase seed production. Becker explains how short mowing height in late spring, at the beginning of the reproductive phase, can increase tillering and, therefore, seed production. His work is part of an effort with the Forage Breeding team to develop and evaluate new bahiagrass materials for future cultivar release.

In this episode of Research in Perspective, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with Dr. Nicolas Caram, a recent PhD graduate from our Agronomy Department. The conversation is about the balance of legumes and grasses in pasture systems. They delve into the productive, environmental and economic impacts of legume integration, exploring how different proportions of legumes in pasture can affect animal performance and pasture productivity. Nico shares insights from his research on the importance of legumes in grass-based pastures and discusses the challenges and benefits of establishing perennial peanut. 

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Jim Malooley, director for Agrivoltaic Operations at Silicon Ranch, and Bill Johnson, 7th generation farmer, now at Silicon Ranch. This interview was part of the 4th Small Ruminant Short Course hosted at the University of Florida in 2025, and was recorded live during that event. Dr. Wallau and his guests explore the concepts of agrivoltaics, where we merge agricultural and energy production to improve land use efficiency. In the discussion panel, Jim and Bill address the benefits and shortcomings using sheep for grazing under the solar panels, and offer practical recommendations those interested in venturing in those partnerships.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with entomologists Dr. Norman Leppla and graduate researcher William Piwowarek about the reemergence of mole crickets in Florida’s pastures. The conversation digs into the pest’s South American origins, the history of insecticide and biological control efforts, and how sustainable management practices can prevent infestations. Wilhelm shares his ongoing fieldwork and surveys across the state to understand why some farms are seeing renewed problems while others aren’t. To contribute to his research, fill out the following survey: https://s.surveyplanet.com/mz9kb8jd

In this first episode of Our Research in Perspective, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Dr. Hannah Rush —agronomist and agroecologist researcher in sustainable cropping with the University of Minnesota— to discuss her research on sustainable cropping practices. Their conversation explores strategies for establishing cool-season forages, the value of species diversity in forage systems, and practical approaches to nitrogen fertilization and legume integration. Together, they highlight how functional diversity and thoughtful management can boost overall forage performance and discuss the aspects to consider when putting together forage mixes.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau brings Marshall Sewell, founder of Mind your Melon, an organization dedicated to addressing mental health stigmas in agriculture. Together, they explore the unique stressors faced by farmers that stem from generational and current economic pressures. Marshall shares his personal story of loss and the founding of the Mind Your Melon Foundation, which aims to raise awareness and provide resources for mental health in the agricultural community. The conversation emphasizes the need for introspection and proactive approaches to mental wellbeing.

Resources: https://mindyourmelon.org/Mind your Melon podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VhSquap7tq2N0hOg69POV?si=16f4641a6bdb4be6

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Dr. Shelby Gruss discuss nitrate toxicity and prussic acid poisoning in livestock, particularly in relation to forage production. They explore the causes and management strategies for these two distinct problems. The conversation highlights the significance of educating producers about these issues to ensure the safety and health of livestock.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Brett Bultmeier, director of the University of Florida / IFAS Pesticide Information Office, discusses significant changes in pesticide licensing, and some new regulations that are coming up. The discussion explores the transition to new testing procedures, the implications of new labeling requirements, and the expected impact on farmers. The conversation also highlights the importance of keeping up with regulatory changes within federal agencies like the EPA and the future of training materials in the field of pesticide safety.

For more information, visit https://pested.ifas.ufl.edu/

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau and David Zierden discuss the recent weather patterns in Florida and the impact it may have on farmers, focusing on the summer's unusual dryness and the impact of La Niña on upcoming winter conditions. They explore the implications of hurricane activity and the importance of planning ahead for farmers during this fall season 2025. For more information, check out https://climatecenter.fsu.edu/.

In this conversation, we revisited two old episodes from Forage Nexus, our sister podcast with Drs. Lilian Silva, from Clemson University, and Bruno Pedreira, from the University of Tennessee. We invited two distinguished colleagues, Drs. Jim Muir and Jamie Foster discuss the importance of legumes in forage and livestock production systems. We explored ways to increase forage productivity and resilience through legumes, and discussed the challenges of adopting legumes at the farm scale. Those episodes were recorded during the National Forage Week, an initiative of the American Grass and Forage Council to promote the role of grasslands in food production.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau hosts his colleagues Dr. Diwakar Vyas and Dr. Adesogan Adegbola (Gbola), to discuss the recent XX International Silage Conference held at the University of Florida in July 2025. The conference brought 330 researchers and allied industry from  37 different countries, representing 141 organizations, institutions and companies. . They explore the origins of the conference, its impact on global networking, key takeaways from presentations, and the role of silage in addressing food insecurity, poverty and animal production. The conversation also highlights the future of silage research, culminating in the announcement of the next conference to be held in Nigeria in 2028. To learn more about the conference, check https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/silage/index.php.