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 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.

This conversation takes listeners back to 2021 with expert Dr. Cheryl Mackowiak, who delves into the intricacies of fertilization strategies in livestock management, focusing on both cool and warm season pastures. The discussion highlights the importance of nitrogen management, the role of legumes in enhancing soil fertility, and the challenges faced in seed production, particularly with Bahia grass. The hosts share insights from their experiences and research, providing practical advice for producers looking to optimize their pasture systems.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau discusses the intricacies of cool season variety trials with Henry Jordan and Maria Elena Mailhos. They delve into the importance of variety trials in forage production with a specific focus on the impact of cool seasons on crop yield across the southeast, specifically, in Florida and Alabama. The conversation also covers seeding rates, seed availability, and emerging varieties in the forage sector.

https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/forage/official-variety-trials/

https://aaes.auburn.edu/variety-tests/

Join us on Cow Talks as we delve into the pressing issue of New World Screwworms with Dr. Diane Kitchen, a veterinary manager with FDACS and state epidemiologist. As a continuation of our conversation with Drs. Andrew Short and Edwin Burgess, we discuss the history, current threats, and the critical importance of surveillance and reporting in preventing the spread of this potentially devastating pest. Stay informed and vigilant to protect both livestock and wildlife in the Southeastern United States while tuning in for expert insights on safeguarding forage communities.

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle/ticks/screwworm

 

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

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.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Steve Smith, Chief of Field Services at Florida’s Office of Agricultural Water Policy, joins host Marcelo Wallau to unpack the role of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in sustainable farming. They discuss how BMPs support both environmental protection and agricultural efficiency, the benefits of enrolling in the program, and how Florida producers can access cost-share opportunities and technical support. A must-listen for anyone involved in or curious about the future of integrated crop-livestock systems in the Southeast.

Florida BMP Manuals Where to access Best Management Practice (BMP) manuals for different commodities.

FDACS Office of Agricultural Water Policy (OAWP)General info, contact, and enrollment resources.

Basin Management Action Plans (BMAPs) Info on which regions are within BMAP boundaries and associated requirements.

Screwworms were things of past nightmare for livestock and wildlife in US. Are they coming back? In recent months, this old threat has reemerged in previously eradicated areas in Central America, making its way to Mexico and getting closer to US borders (https://www.aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/cattle/ticks/screwworm/outbreak-central-america). While not here yet, many people are in high alert. In this episode of Cow Talks, we talk to Drs. Andrew Short and Ted Burges from the University of Florida Entomology department will understand more about this pest, its biology, how it was eradicated, and its potential to come back. For more information or if you suspect any case of screwworm, contact the Florida Department of Agriculture immediately through (850) 410-0900 or RAD@FDACS.gov. More information can be found at https://www.fdacs.gov/Agriculture-Industry/Pests-and-Diseases/Animal-Pests-and-Diseases/New-World-Screwworm

This presentation with Dr. Monte Rouquette as part of the 75th Beef Cattle Short Course delves into the intricacies of forage research and its critical role in sustainable pasture management and livestock production. He discusses various aspects of forage science including, nutrient cycling, and the importance of genetics in livestock performance. The necessity for team collaboration is discussed, along with future directions in forage and livestock research.

This conversation explores the evolution and advancements in forage research, particularly in Florida, highlighting successful long-term projects and effective grazing management practices. Dr. Lynn Sollenberger shares insights from his extensive experience in the field, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, research, and sustainable practices in enhancing livestock nutrition and forage production. 

In this episode, we take a closer look at the health challenges facing farmed white-tailed deer in Florida, focusing on how to manage and prevent diseases like epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) and bluetongue virus. Dr. Campos shares insights into new rapid field diagnostics that can speed up outbreak response and explains how land use and environmental shifts are shaping disease risks. 
 
The Cervidae Health Research Initiative (CHeRI) offers necropsy and diagnostic services free of charge to Florida Deer Farmers. Out of state ranchers: please call for pricing. 
352-562-DEER 
https://wec.ifas.ufl.edu/cheri/ 
 
Dr. Juan Campos  https://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/profile/campos-krauer-juan/ 

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. John Lednicky discusses the One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. He shares success stories from research on deer and viral diseases, highlighting the importance of incorporating interconnectedness in understanding emerging viruses. The conversation also covers the role of citizen science in monitoring animal health and the challenges faced in H5N1 surveillance. Dr. Lednicky stresses the need for preventive measures and ongoing research to tackle viral threats effectively. 

For more information, check out the links below: 

CHeRI at the University of Florida 

UF One Health Initiative 

What to know about the outrbreak in Florida  

Dr. John Lednicky Faculty Profile 

UF H5N1 Research Breakthrough 

FDACS H5N1 Information 

USDA Avian Influenza Detection Data 

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. João Vendramini discusses the unique forage systems and beef cattle production in South Florida. He highlights the challenges posed by the region's soil and climate, the importance of rangelands for environmental conservation, and the various types of forages used in beef production. The conversation also covers alternative forages, the role of legumes, and the management of annual forages, providing insights into the complexities of cattle farming in this distinctive environment. 

In this episode of Cow Talks, Drs. Marcelo Wallau and Kim Mullenix from Auburn University discuss the integration of cattle into cropping systems. By exploring the opportunities and challenges presented by ICLS, they emphasize the importance of relationships. Whether this is regarding relationships between farmers or systems, the benefits of stocker cattle management and replacement heifers is discussed. The conversation also covers practical challenges in implementing integrated systems, grazing management techniques, and the long-term benefits for soil quality and crop production. #CowTalksPodcast #ICLS #CropLivestockIntegration

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Dr. Audrey Gamble about the integration of crop and livestock systems, focusing on the importance of soil health, the benefits of cover crops, and the historical context of crop rotation. They discuss the long-term improvements in soil organic matter as well as the nitrogen credits from legume cover crops. Among this, the decision-making process for choosing cover crop species is discussed. The conversation also covers economic advantages of diversified farming systems. 

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Colleen Larson about the implications of the H5N1 avian flu on the dairy industry. Adding onto last episode’s conversation with Dr. Anderson and Dr. Cindy Bassett, they discuss the virus's impact on dairy farms, biosecurity measures being implemented, and the importance of consumer safety regarding milk production. The conversation highlights the need for vigilance in biosecurity practices and the role of science-based information in addressing concerns about the virus. For more information about extension agents, check out the IFAS Directory. or reach out to forages.ifas@ufl.edu.  

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 of Cow Talks, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau discusses the critical topic of H5N1, or bird flu, with experts Dr. Ben Anderson and Dr. Cindy Sanders. They delve into the epidemiology of H5N1, its impact on livestock and poultry, and the importance of biosecurity measures. The conversation also covers the role of fairs in disease spread, providing insight into how to best prevent contamination. Listeners are encouraged to seek reliable information from local extension offices and agricultural health resources. Below are some resources mentioned in the podcast. 

• H5N1 Seminar Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WbJPax2UWK0 

• Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety: https://www.sccahs.org/  

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Hannah Baker, a State Specialized Extension Agent in Beef and Forage Economics. Hannah’s background and transition to South Florida’s cattle industry is discussed in conjunction with the importance of pasture rangeland forage insurance (PRF) for cattle producers. Hannah highlights the importance of succession planning and risk management in farming within a new agricultural landscape impacted by current trends in the cattle market and greater global dynamics that affect the Southeast. 

Hannah Baker: https://rcrec-ona.ifas.ufl.edu/about/directory/staff/hannah-baker/

PRF Insurance: https://prfinsurance.caes.uga.edu/ 

In this episode of Cow Talks, hosts Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Chris Prevatt engage with Dr. Brent Sellers and Dr. David Russell to discuss the complexities of weed management in agricultural systems. They explore integrated pest management strategies, the importance of healthy forage stands, and the various sources of weed encroachment. The conversation delves into specific weeds of concern and the challenges posed by hard-to-control species. The experts also highlight the significance of education and resources available for farmers to manage weeds effectively.  

In this episode of Cow Talks, hosts Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Dr. Jose Dubeux dive deep into the world of integrated crop-livestock systems (ICLS), featuring guest expert Dr. Pedro Alburquerque from Brazil. Drawing parallels between Florida and southern Brazil's similar climates and agricultural practices, the episode explores the benefits and challenges of ICLS adoption. Listeners will gain insights from both scientific research and practical on-farm experience, understanding how ICLS contributes to soil health, nutrient cycling, and overall farm resilience.   

The discussion tackles common myths surrounding ICLS, such as soil compaction and nutrient export, debunking them with long-term data and real-world examples. The concept of "system fertilization," where nutrient applications are optimized for the entire crop-livestock system, takes center stage. In this episode, we highlight its potential for increasing yields and reducing environmental impact. Tune in to learn how ICLS, fueled by collaboration and trust between farmers, can revolutionize agricultural practices in the Southeast and beyond. 

For more information, visit the UF/IFAS Forage Team website:

https://programs.ifas.ufl.edu/forage/

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau converses with Dr. Bill Mahanna, a seasoned expert in corn silage selection. The conversation delves into the critical factors influencing corn selection for silage, emphasizing the importance of agronomy, late season plant health, and the role of data models. Dr. Mahanna addresses common misconceptions about fiber digestibility and the significance of agronomic traits over genetic factors in selecting corn hybrids. Overall, the episode provides valuable guidance for dairy producers and agronomists in optimizing corn silage production. They emphasize the need for timely harvesting and the influence of local knowledge on yield and digestibility. The discussion highlights the significance of understanding environmental conditions and the role of data in making informed decisions for optimal corn silage production. 

UF Hybrid Decision Tool: https://devfel.github.io/forage-hybrid-table/

2025 International Silage Conference: https://conference.ifas.ufl.edu/silage/

In this episode of Cow Talks, Marcelo Wallau hosts Dr. José Dubeux and Dr. Sheeja George to discuss sustainable agriculture strategies in Florida, focusing on sod-based rotation systems and integrated crop livestock systems. They explore the benefits of these systems, including improved soil health, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. The conversation also addresses the challenges of adoption, such as land tenure issues and outdated policies, while highlighting the opportunities for innovation and collaboration in the agricultural sector. 

 

To learn more about the integration of crops and livestock in the Southeast, join us at the first SE ICLS symposium in Marianna, Florida, on Jan 31st, 2025. For more information, check the website ICLS Symposium - Forage Team - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS. For more information regarding the Southeast Grazing Exchange, check outthis website. 

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Dr. Rocky Lemus, Mississippi State Extension/Research Professor and Scott Jenkins, Mississippi Dairy Goat Farmer at Cole Ridge Farms.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Henry Jordan, Variety Trial Coordinator at Auburn University and Dr. Cheryl Mackowiak, Associate Professor of Soil and Water Sciences.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Beaver Yoder, North FL Stocker Producer and Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guests Beaver Yoder, North FL Stocker Producer and Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management

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 Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guest Dr. Jose Dubeux, UF/IFAS Professor of Forage Management

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation with special guest Dr. Angela Gonella-Diaza, Beef Cattle Reproduction Specialist.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, Forage Extension Specialist and guest speaker, Dr. Samantha Wisley, professor at the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation discuss how deer production is an important livestock industry in Florida. CHeRI is a state funded initiative within IFAS, with a group of UF faculty including veterinarians, entomologists and extension specialists who work to increase health outcomes for captive deer throughout Florida. Tune in to hear about the free Deer Hotline and all that CHeRI has to offer. For more information on CHeRI, extension events offered and resources, please visit https://wec.ifas.ufl.edu/cheri/.

Panhandle article on Deadly Deer Disease found in Holmes County by Dr. Samantha Wisley: https://nwdistrict.ifas.ufl.edu/phag/2023/09/08/deadly-deer-disease-found-in-holmes-county-implications-for-deer-hunting-and-management/

Technical bits and tips on well establishing your pasture by Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist.

Technical bits on forage mixes and what to think about when choosing a forage or cover crop mix by Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist. Check out the Cool-Season Forage Variety Recommendations: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AA266

Technical bits on the importance of Grazing Management by Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist. For more information on Grazing Management and Practices: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AG160

Technical bits on pasture diversity by Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist.

Join Dr. Marcelo Wallau, UF/IFAS Forage Extension Specialist and Chris Prevatt, Beef Cattle and Forage Commodity Director for the Alabama Farmers Federation discuss preconditioning with special guest, Dr. Kim Mullenix, beef Systems Specialist at Auburn University. For more information please go to: https://www.aces.edu/blog/category/farming/livestock/beef/Or contact us via forages@ifas.ufl.edu

Join Dr. Ann Blount, Dr. Leanne Dillard, and Henry Jordan giving the 2023 Cool-Season Forage update.

Dr. Ann Blount is a UF/IFAS Emeritus Professor of forage breeding currently working with the Southern Seed Certification for Florida and Alabama and for the Alabama Crop Improvement.

Dr. Leanne Dillard is an Associate Professor and Forage Extension Specialist at Auburn University specializing in increasing forage utilization and efficiency by improving grazing and harvesting management.

Henry Jordan is the variety testing manager at Auburn University.

You can find the 2023 Cool-Season Forage Variety Recommendations here: https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AA266

A Walk on the Wild Side: https;//edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/AG139

For more information, please contact us at forages@ifas.ufl.edu

This week on Cow Talks we have special guest Dr. Jose Dubeux discussing the Southeast Grazing Exchange website! Promoting the partnership between row crop and livestock producers, the website allows a connection between producers interested in partnering together to have cover crop and grazing during the fallow period.

southeastgrazingexchange.com

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. 

This week on Cow Talks we have special guest Dr. Jose Dubeux discussing the Forage Workers Tour where specialists and agents are able to come together and discuss current projects within the state of Florida. Dr. Dubeux also gives an introduction to the Southeast Grazing Exchange website. Tune in next week for more information about the Southeast Grazing Exchange!

southeastgrazingexchange.com

programs.ifas.ufl.edu/forage/

This week on Cow Talks we have special guests Doug Mayo discussing the Forage Workers Tour where state specialists and agents are able to collaborate current research projects and recent findings with the state of Florida. Doug gives highlights on the farm visits given during the event. Doug Mayo is the County Extension Director and Extension Agent in Jackson county.

This week on Cow Talks we have special guest Dr. Cheryl Mackowiak on part 2 of our discussion on the highlights from the Forage Workers Tour where state specialists and agents gather to collaborate ideas and catch up on what is happening around the state. Dr. Cheryl Mackowiak is an Associate Professor of Soil and Water Science. Her research and extension emphasizes the soil and water that sustain the flora and fuana that our agrecological interests and livelihoods.

This week on Cow Talks, we have special guest Dr. Joao Vendramini discussing the recent Forage Workers Tour where state specialists and agents gather to collaborate ideas and recent findings throughout the state of Florida. Dr. Joao Vendramini is the Forage Specialist located at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center. His research program is dedicated to forage management with emphasis on sub-tropical production systems. The major area of interest is forage-livestock interface and the impact of forage management on forage and animal production and environmental quality.