Seeing more leads to knowing more leads to planting perfection--Tiffany Sanders

The 20/20 SeedSense has helped so many growers make more money that we want to make it easy for you to put the system to the test. Last year 98.6% of users said they would recommend it to their friends and neighbors. Now you can use the system with no risk. Just purchase the system through your Precision Planting dealer. Use it through the season and, if it doesn't make you money, you can return it for a full refund of the equipment purchase price. Just return the system to us by May 22. To find out more about this go to www.precisionplanting.com

Waste Not- Tiffany Sanders

This article is about how this farmer is using paper to bed his farm of pigs. he is using paper that has been turned in to the recycling. The farmer then beds his farm with about 1000 pounds of paper a day. The paper is then cleaned from the barns once a week and then adds coffee grounds and yard waste to make organic matter for the future. This is one way to give back and not to waste what this earth has given to us.
to find out more about this article visit ourohio.org

Caffeine addicts REJOICE--Bethany Swinehart

The genes in coffee have been identified that make good coffee good and bad coffee, well bad. The good part of the coffee is the sucrose levels. They are controlled by either the SUS1 or the SUS2 gene. This gene's expression is affected by the ripening and the picking of the product. For one reason this is determined is because certain blends of coffee beans are more bitter than others. This is due to the metabolism of a certain sugar during the growth and maturation of the bean.

Invasive Species--Bethany Swinehart

Invasive species are a growing problem for countries across the globe. The problem is that a species thats invading an area has no real natural predators and therefore take over and squelch the native species into non-existence. There is research being done in Australia to predict where these species of plants and animals will move next. The research is also a part of determining which weeds , insects, and animals are becoming feral or overtaking an area.

sun powered train--Bethany Swinehart

Growing up I was taught that trains were first run by steam, then by burning coal and fuels like everyday cars. Now there is research and designing being done to create a train that runs on two tracks like a typical train of today does. However there would be solar panels attached to a roof over the train to harness the ever abundant sunlight of the Arizona skies. The hope is that the train will be running by 2018 and adding more stops as the development continues. The estimates are that a trip from Tucson to Phoenix will take approx. 30 minutes.

safe three wheelers--Bethany Swinehart

Current technologies and studies in Asian countries like China and Thailand, are leaning towards a vehicle that is safe for not only the passengers but the pedestrians around it. The Spira is just that, a foam bodied three wheeler that is road worthy and people safe. Weighing in at just over 300 pounds the Spira is durable enough to protect the passengers but soft enough to protect any pedestrians that get in the path of this giant sized twinkie mobile. The really cool thing about the Spira is that it is able to float with the passengers in it! With all of this could it really get any better, well it is fuel efficient with over 100 mpg!

amphibious 3-wheelers--Bethany Swinehart

A new invention for travel in Asia, are foam bodied three wheelers. They are safe in a collision and better yet the foam allows them to float. Their light weight bodies allow them to be fuel efficient but the foam has such a large volume and abundance that they are protective. It weighs around 300 pounds and surpasses 100 mpg. One reason these automobiles are being tested in Asia and Thailand is due to the dense populations in their cities. These mobiles are being designed so not only the occupants are safe but also the pedestrians.

Larissa Hileman~ Mega Yields with Twin-Row Planting

Twin-row corn and soybean planting is on course to achieve our expectations. We believe corn yields in excess of 300 bu/A and soybean yields in excess of 85 bu/A are well within our reach and will happen shortly. Not only will we reach these levels, but they will also be achieved profitably and with no adverse environmental impact. Most noticeable about twinrow planting has been stalk quality. It appears that with greater use of sunlight from uniform plant spacing, the stalks are substantially larger than conventionally planted corn and that the twin-row plants grow faster. Another observation was that 95 percent of the corn plants in the corn/soybean strips developed a second ear.Yield experiences so far have put those systems at 235 to 280 bu/A of corn, which is 60 to 80 bu/A better than 10-year averages on farms.

For more information, http://www.fluidfertilizer.com/PastArt/pdf/42P14-15.pdf

Also to watch a video on twin-row planters: http://www.greatplainsmfg.com/products/planter/ypvideotwinrow.html

Nicole Pleiman Easier to do one big one :)

The biodiesel plant in Danville, owned by Blackhawk Biofuels, LLC boost America’s energy independence, keep people working, and spur economic development throughout east central Illinois.” “This project spurs economic development and energy leadership.”
Blackhawk Biofuels will partner with Renewable Energy Group to operate the facility. leading biodiesel producer and marketer, will operate the Danville facility and market the plant’s biodiesel. “Upgrades to the facility will further enhance the plant’s market advantages.”

http://www.il-fa.com/news/GOV_DCEO_Blackhawk_biofuel_opening.pdf

Even with a declining economy, the used combine market is still higher than previous years. Last year’s market was on the high side and this year’s market has declined. Looking at the provided tables, you can see that prices have been high the past few years in the combine market.

http://www.agriculture.com/ag/story.jhtml?storyid=/templatedata/ag/story/data/1244135566147.xml

The EPA has issued a proposal using indirect land use claiming a larger carbon footprint from the increased production of ethanol. State Representatives are trying to keep the proposal from making it to the floor.

http://www.agriculture.com/ag/story.jhtml?storyid=/templatedata/ag/story/data/1244148561254.xml#continue

This article illustrates the hard to tell truths that we simply seem to ignore. It depicts the short falls of the government and also the ways in which we lie to ourselves. In this article, you realize that sometimes the best policy isn’t always so pretty.

http://www.agriculture.com/ag/story.jhtml?storyid=/templatedata/ag/story/data/1243365080298.xml

Twitter, Blogs, Online Forums, and Wikis [Tara Milliken]

I know we've mentioned a lot of these in class, but we haven't went into elaborate detail about any of them . . . and so, in an effort to better understand some of these myself, here is my attempt to explain each of the following: Wikis, Online Forums, Blogs, and Twitter.

I would be willing to guarantee that each of us has used Wikipedia at some point in our life, and in fact, the majority of my definitions for this blog will probably come from there, but do we actually understand what it is? A wiki is defined as a website that uses wiki software, allowing the easy creation and editing of any number of interlinked web pages. They are most often used to create collaborative websites and to power community websites. A fun fact is that "wiki" is the Hawaiian word for "fast," and can also be expanded to stand for "What I Know Is." Pretty cool, huh?

Online forums, or message boards, are considered online discussion sites. Think of it as a modern equivlent to the traditional bulletin board. These forums are considered web applications managing user-generated content. People participating in Internet forums may cultivate social bonds and interests groups for a specific topic of interest.

I included blogs as a joke . . . I mean, seriously, if you are unsure as to what it is by now (i.e. week ten), we have much bigger problems to worry about. haha.

Twitter is a free social networking and micro-blogging service that enables its users to send and read other users' updates, know as 'tweets.' In February 2009, a researcher listed Twitter as the 3rd most utilized social network, with Facebook being the first, and MySpace coming in at number 2. Amazingly enough, this was only created in 2006 -- talk about a boom in popularity.

Take Action, Before It's Too Late [Tara Milliken]

So, I'm not exactly sure if any of this would constitute as new agricultural-related technology, but I do classify it as something that will have a direct impact on each of us, and the more knowledgeable we are, the better off our industry will be in the future. The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has decided to target Ohio as their next state in the battle of animal rights. If we do not want to end up in a similar situation as California with Proposition 2, our best bet is to start getting the word out now. I recently discovered some websites that are, in my opinion, excellent resources for promoting voter awareness prior to voting on major animal agricutural issues. The experts are saying that this will be the biggest issue the Ohio agriculture has ever had to face, so as students in the college, I believe it is our duty to at least work to present the public with accurate information. Technology has both worked to help and hurt the livestock industries in past years, with advancements of both concealed cameras and computers, information (whether accurate or innaccurate) is made available significantly more rapidly than ever before. And so, with this technology, there are now multiple websites that are working to shed light on these issues . . . they are listed below for you to browse and hopefully utilize in the future:

The Ohio Livestock Coalition http://www.ohiolivestock.org/index.html

Consumer Freedom http://www.consumerfreedom.com/

Farmers and Computers- Andrea Tholen

The Hathaway family uses computers on their farm. Kim Hathaway describes the system. "It's a database system that we can use to go to the board of trades. We can go down and see what corn is trading for right now. We just got the upgrade system about three years ago that has the weather." The farmer's can use computers to get information on farm markets, weather, and other informaiton useful to them about farming. Researchers are currently working on incorporating more technology through computers into farming, and there should be many more technological advances in the near future wtih our world becoming so based around computers and technology.

computers

Television and Farming- Andrea Tholen

Precision farming is one new technological development in agriculture, with this new creation they can pinpoint a farmer's location while in a field. It is similar to the way some television stations use satellite signals to send television waves. Television satellite dishes receive a signal from a satellite in space and transform it into the television show you watch. Farmers use an antenna to receive a signal from a satellite in space. The antenna is connected to a computer on the farmer's combine. The computer uses satellite signal to tell the farmer exactly where the combine is in the field. Precision farming allows the farmer to farm more efficiently and precisely.

TV Farming

One Plant Made Infamous By Comics-Emily Spahr

This is a little different, not exactly agriculture related, but more along the lines of botany.

We've at some point in at least the past year, if not longer have been exposed to this crazy villain who's only goal in life is to make people laugh. Well not exactly, but he'll leave you with a smile plastered on your face. I hope I haven't stumped anyone- I'm referring to the Joker, Batman's arch enemy, who's been immortalized in the comics for his trademark poison which leaves a smile on the face of his victims. Scientists have recently discovered that such a toxin really does exist and has been used as a means for euthanasia, execution, and suicide for thousands of years. The plant,Hemlock water-dropwart grows in Sardinia, along the Mediterranean, and unlike other poisons which are bitter, is instead appeasing to the taste buds, causing many to not suspect the worst until it is too late.

The Joker would have loved to get his hands on something like this, however scientists have a different plan in mind for this toxin- botox. In the same way the toxin carves a smile on the victims face, researchers hope to develop a safe form to use as a botox treatment. Let's hope it doesn't form laugh lines around it's victims-I mean patients mouths.

http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2009/06/090602-smiling-death-potion.html

New technology for horse foot wear- Joe Zimmerman

Horse lovers have been spending more time shoe shopping, but not for themselves. They have been for their horses. With new technology that has come about, there are different replacements for the old horseshoes. Horseshoes have gone through a number of changes in the last 10 years. This has been a long process as thousands of high-tech alternatives have been studied. The material that is being used in the new shoes, not only have a longer life time, but help to cushion the horse's foot too. Horses are now also able to spend days in the pasture barefoot. These shoes are being seen as away that allows for the shoes to be off, but when they are on they help to grow a strong, healthy foot.

Online Classrooms, More Than An Easy A- Emily Spahr

We've become so accustomed to online classes that sometimes it seems we take it for granted. But for some, it's their only mode of learning. With the war in Iraq and Afghanistan, young students who have been displaced from their home- some even loosing their home completely, are finding online classrooms the only way to connect to their teachers, and fellow peers, all while still making progress toward a degree. In addition to this, schools in places like India are finding it easier to reach students via an Internet connection versus face to face contact.
While this seems like an easy class, and an easy way to connect with others, there are still downfalls, especially when dealing with third world countries. It can be difficult to place a computer in the hands of the students, especially in the most remote of areas. Add on top of that the possibility that there may not be a viable Internet connection. However, we are increasingly seeing people overcome such challenges to quench their thirst for knowledge.
http://www.newsweek.com/id/174539

Farming in the Sky- Joe Zimmerman

As we all know, the worlds population continues to grow while land used for food continues to decrease. The choices that we have are that we need to rethink how we grow food, or starve.

The idea of tranplanting farms into city skycrapes continues to be talked about more and more. Doing this would use soil-free hydroponic farming to slash demand for energy and would produce more food. Farming on top of skyscrapers would also free up farmland and trees would not have to be removed. One of the biggest benefits of vertical farming would be that we would be able to grow food near where it would be eaten. This would help to cut both cost and emissions of transportation.

Sharp PG-D4010X ~ Larissa Hileman

The Sharp PG-D4010 can project an image to a class, the advantage this projector has over many others is that the image is very bright and can be projected in a fully lit classroom.Pros: This projector is lightweight (only about 12 pounds), has a bright image at 4200 ANSI lumens, and has front access to bulb for easy replacement. The economy mode bulb can last up to 3000 hours. It features 1080p high-definition output. The lens is offset from the center for easy mounting. Controls are easy to navigate.

Overall evaluation: Even though this projector is more expensive than some other projectors, that extra brightness of the image and the almost 1000 hours addition bulb life make it a good value. Also the replacement lamps for this projector run about $500, where many of its lower-priced competitors replacement lamps run as much as $800.Price: MSRP $2,495 Street Price $1,749

New Holland H5270 Tedder

In the haymakers race against rain, a New Holland H5270 six-roter, pull-type tedder provides the edge by fluffing heavy, damp crop and distributing it evenly for faster drydown. The new H5270 tedder has a large tedding width for high-capacity haying, yet easily folds to a convenient size for transport.

The H5270’s broad, 25’ 7” tedding width covers fields fast to boost haymaking productivity. Durability is built in with larger tires, heavy rotor gearboxes, and a heavy-duty frame. The tedder features six heavy-duty rotors, each with seven vertical tine arms, which provide reliable tedding at fast speeds.

The fully-articulated frame hugs ground contours so tines handle the entire crop without mixing soil into the hay. The hydraulic lift makes it easy to raise and lower the tedder from the tractor. A handy crank allows the operator to fine-tune the tine height in seconds without tools. The tedder folds hydraulically and can be conveniently changed from the 27’ 7” overall working position width to a narrow 9’ 10” transport width without leaving the tractor seat. A safety hitch chain and transport lighting are included as standard equipment.
A 35 PTO-hp tractor is the minimum required to operate the H5270 tedder.

PASCO EcoZone- Brandy Brinson

EcoZone by PASCO allows the once qualitative study of ecosystems to become qualitative.The three chambers can each hold a separate ecosystem and can be interconnected or separate. The systems are completely closed off, so no outside influences can effect the data from the inclosed environment. With the three chambers conneted students can study the interaction of three different ecosystems, or the chambers can be disconnected to allow the study of individual ecosystems. Openings in the chambers allow water, air and ions to circulate through the ecosystems.

SPARK-Scienc e Learning System- Brandy Brinson

SPARK is a mobile device that features a full color screen and integrates the power of probe ware with inquiry based assessment and content.SPARK can collect and analyze data, and provides both student and teacher embedded support and is easy to use. It includes 60 pre-installed labs that are standards based inquiry labs, that use an electronic notebook format.SPARK integrates background content, data collections and analysis. Students won't have to consult separate instructions, lab manuals or separate folders, everything can be found on the SPARK! Any other great way to keep your classroom interactive.

Qwizdom Q7 Tablet- Brandy Brinson

The Quizdom Q7 tablet is a new technology that utilizes RF technology, presenter controls and response system interactivity. Used with the Quizdom student response system, the teacher can input a question on the tablet and see statics of the students answers; which are displayed on the built in LCD screen. This would be a great technology for teachers to create an interactive environment in the classroom.

Elluminate [Tara Milliken]

Obviously, I am slightly more interested in classroom technology compared to the general agricultural technology, for the simple reason that I hope to utilize some of these tools in the future. Another amazing tool that I discovered is Elluminate, Inc. which provides provides proven, best-in-class solutions for real-time online learning and collaboration. The website lists various products which are used world-wide by educators who are on the cutting edge of digital education. One of the most widely used products is the Elluminate vSpaces, which allows for educators to meet in one fully functional room to teach, discuss, etc. This company's primary focus is on eLearning, and as distance education and technology continues to become more advanced, and with the demand for instantaneous communication, Elluminate will continue to be successful as they provide solutions for educators across the globe.

Classroom 2.0 [Tara Milliken]

One of the coolest discoveries I've made while searching for technology in education this quarter is the online social network called Classroom 2.0. This site is for those interested in Web 2.0 and collaborative technologies in education. Basically, this network is full of teachers and tech support volunteers who are there to assist everyone from beginners to the most advanced on how to integrate technology into their classroom. It is focused primarily on beginners, as many teachers today are still struggling to convert to the digital age. Classroom 2.0 includes messaging forums, blogging, etc. And, one of the coolest features is that this website can be translated into eleven different languages by simply clicking a button, making it accessible all over the world! It also has published information or links to a variety of conferences or seminars available to teachers regarding technology. So, whether an educator is just starting out or if they simply want to remain in the know about what's new, Classroom 2.0 is a wonderful resource for teachers everywhere!

Modern Day Swiss Army Knife-Megan Mullet

We have seen technology in tractors and trucks a like, now they are combining the two into one vehicle. This is cost saving for the farmer that is looking to purchase a truck and a tractor. This vehicle is very versatile and can do many things that both a truck and tractor can do. It can pull implements in the field, haul seed to and from the field, cut hay, or spread manure. It is being coined as the modern day Swiss army knife because it is so diverse in what it can do and it is one piece of equipment! If you aren't looking forward to purchase more than one piece of equipment for your farm, this is something to look into!

Performance Chips for Vehicles-Megan Mullet

I feel that there is a strong stigma that goes along with performance parts for trucks and vehicles in general. Before I was further educated in this area, I too thought that chips and high performace programmers were for the younger generation that wanted their truck to "perform" better than any one else in the county. They wanted the loudest truck that went the farthest at the truck pull and blew the most smoke. Since beginning to date a diesel mechanic, I have seen a completely different side of this industry. People don't realize that these programmers can actually increase fuel mileage and strengthen the life of your vehicle. If your vehicle is your office, whether you are hauling equipment for a farm or just on the road consulting with farmers, these products are definitely worth the time it takes to look into them. These programmers can also be adjusted depending on whether you are hauling a heavy load or just wanted to ensure the best possible fuel mileage. This technology is definitely something I will look into after purchasing a newer vehicle!

Put to the Test: Qwizdom Q7 Tablet ~Larissa Hileman

The Qwizdom Q7 Tablet combines RF technology, presenter controls, and response-system interactivity. Teachers can use this as they would any other interactive tablet, but if they are using the Qwizdom student-response system, they can enter a question into the Q7 tablet on the fly and see the statistics on that question on the tablet's built-in LCD screen.

The pro's of the Qwizdom Q7 Tablet include using RF to communicate with a computer and the RF session is specific to each tablet, so no cross communication can take place between tablets. The tablet has a nice ergonomic design. The keyboard template is built right into the top of the tablet. The buttons are organized into logical function groups (all drawing buttons are together, all Qwizdom buttons are together, etc). The tablet is customizable for use with any software application and has a large backlit LCD that can show speaker notes and student response data. The RF sender for the computer stores in the back of the tablet. The tablet can recharge using a USB port on computer.

Going Green?? Elisa

It is hard not to get involved with "going green" with the whole "going green" craz sweeping across the nation and world and even being part of the most influcentional part of the renewable force behide going green...Agricultural. We as the next generation in our industry have to find a way to prospier or we will fail. Each passing year it gets harder to stay aflot it seems and our world is also suffering. Our way of life was changed with technology and we have become dependent on alot of these technological advances. Which has helped farmer advance their area of expierece greatly. But is there a way we can cut down the bad with out giving up the good., I think so while i was looking for a few ideas to cut my bill down i came across this web site, it is filled with ideas and new technologies about going green or at least being alittle greener. what really got me was when i opened my new DVD and realized it was almost totally made of recycled material. Iam not getting on a soap bix and preaching green but it is really easy to do little steps to help our area of life and that for the next generation !!

http://greentechnolog.com/

Hydroponics and Ohio State Elisa

In 1999 the Hydroponic Vegetable Program began in the spring with a three-year USDA/CSREES grant and the additional funds coming from The Ohio State University Extension. this program has a huge varity of constant research and development using hydroponic technology. you can visit the following website and find tons of research infomation
and idea and concepts about hydroponics. there are even interavtive sites to get everyone involved and understanding Ohio States Hydroponics system. this would be a great source of infomation and activites for Ag teachers all over ohio adn even other states in my opinion. Check it out :)

http://www.oardc.ohio-state.edu/hydroponics/drake/index.php?option=frontpage&Itemid=22

Identification for your Pet ~Lynette Hamilton~

The number one issue with raising a pet is often times owners loose their pets. With this new identification system you will be able to track your pet if it is lost! What looks like an ordinary dog or cat collar may contain a small USB drive. It can be used in the tracking of your animal, as well as, will allow you to store information about the dog on it, such as it's shot records, the dogs name, and owners name and address. Another neat feature of this would be it allows you to store photos of the dog and throughout the dogs life on the drive. The only down fall of this collar is the issue of it getting wet and the cost to replace it!

Solar Pot ~Lynette Hamilton~

In today's society everyone is going "green," and this new environmental friendly solar pot will make it easier for people to charge their batteries and go green! This new battery charging device or Solar Pot makes use of solar energy to charge itself. All that you have to do is to place the discharged battery inside the stem of this charging device and then the place the charging device in the sun. The device then takes up the solar energy and begins to charge the batteries. This device helps in recycling the dead batteries the natural way, which otherwise is one of the biggest environmental hazard. Quite an eco friendly way to save environment and save money!

Colibri Food Dispenser-Brooke White

Since there are many people starving in the big cities, this food dispender is to provide food for those people. According to this article, this piece of eqiupment is a "bridge" between the excess of foods and the underfed who are searching for leftovers. This box is made of steel, inside and out, so it will provide safety from vandalism and bad weather. For more information concerning the food dispenser, you can visit this website: http://www.tuvie.com/colibri-food-dispenser-for-big-cities#more-2641

"Save Water" Bottle-Brooke White

Because metals always carry antibacterial and germ properties against polluting drinking water, this bottle was created to remind people to save water. It is a glass bottle which holds the water, and a metal body inside it which reads "save water". Again it's purpose is to make people aware of the effeciency of water and to save the planet. When water is filled to a certain extent, the "save water" will be in larger print because of the water. When the water level goes down, it's a lot easier to read. Oxidation will darken the words slowly which emphasizes the message more and more every day. For more information/pictures on this project, visit this website: http://www.tuvie.com/category/green-technology

Cloned Buffalo Calf- Andrea Tholen

Scientists of Animal Biotechnology Centre, National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal have developed the landmark technique i.e. “Handguided Cloning Technique” and produced the world’s first cloned buffalo calf. The technique that scientists used was a new and improved technique to the one that they first used with Dolly, the first sheep to ever be cloned. The world’s first buffalo calf through the “Handguided Cloning Technique” was born on February, 6, 2009 at NDRI, Karnal. Dr. A. K. Srivastava, Director, NDRI, said that in India, we have the largest population of the best buffaloes in the world. However, the percentage of elite animals is very low and there is an urgent need to enhance the population of these elite buffaloes and the technology developed at our Institute has the potential to do so.

Cloned Buffalo

Enzymes in Cow Feed- Andrea Tholen

This is an article about enzymes in cow feed. They have developed new enzyme formulations and they can make the cow produce more milk. For cattle diets, enzymes must bind specifically to feeds and be resistant to rumen degradation. Since the primary digestible components of forages are cellulose and hemicellulose, recent research has focused on enzymes specific to these nutrients. Cows fed enzyme-treated forage during the first 100 days of lactation produced nine to 15 per cent more milk and 16 to 23 per cent more energy-corrected milk than cows fed the control diet. If farmers implemented the enzymes into their feeding programs then it could save them a lot of money and allow them to actually make more money in the long run.

Cow Enzymes

Mail Catch [Tara Milliken]

If you've ever had difficulty validating accounts because you don't want to give out your personal or business email address, MailCatch.com will solve that problem. It is a quick and temporary solution to your email accessibility issues. It also allows you to receive email using a temporary email address, and the best part is, no registration is required. All you have to do is choose an email name followed by @mailmatch.com. No email can be sent from the site, making is safe to use when students need an email access verification to create an online account. MailCatch disposable email is very useful for teachers in the classroom setting!

Methods of Making Butter from Camel Milk [Tara Milliken]

There is now being research done to discover the best methods of making butter from camel milk. While here in the United States this may seem almost humorous, the truth is, camel milk can certainly play a bigger role in the prevention of human malnutrition than it does today. Growing and raising foodstuffs for a rapidly increasing human population is especially difficult in the hot and arid zones of the world, which just so happens to be the locations that a camel not only survives well in, but is also able to benefit man. Researchers have now come to the conclusion that camels can produce an adequate amount of milk in drought areas where other domestic animals have very low production. While camel milk has already taken off in many countries, the technology involved in the production of the butter is both complicated and still undergoing more study, but it is the hope of researchers that it will soon be perfected in a way that it is available for small farmers in these various locations of the world.

TECA Works to Bring Agricultural Technology to the World [Tara Milliken]

TECA is a Food and Agricultural Organization for the United Nations, and its aim is to provide access to information about available proven technologies in agriculture, livestock, fisheries, and forestry, which contributes to food security, poverty alleviation, and sustainable devlopment. While TECA contains many articles surrounding technology in the field of agriculture in its own right, the purpose of my blog is to elaborate on how this website functions to bring crucial information to small farmers around the world. The fact that smaller, less stable countries now are being provided with the opportunity to access this resource is a significant step in ending world hunger and coping with a booming population.

TECA is striving to provide others with reliable and proven technologies, and a shared database on the website makes it easily accessible to others around the world. TECA works under the following guiding principles:

• The validation of technologies facilitates their dissemination, adaptation and adoption across broadly similar biophysical, social economic and human environments and farming systems.
• Technologies must be economically and socially acceptable, easily adaptable to the biophysical environment and environmentally friendly.

So often we only consider how technologies is impacting agriculture in our own country, but this initiative explains how it is helping to create more stability around the globe. TECA is another example of how agriculture is quickly becoming even more globalized through the use of technology. To view this website and learn more about TECA and its mission visit http://www.fao.org/sd/teca/index_en.asp.

New technology detects lameness in cattle--Tiffany Sanders

Lameness in dairy cattle have hurt the industry for many years and has been one of the main reasons why the cows are culled. However, there is not a new device developed by researchers at UD and the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) to help detect the very painful condition of lameness in cattle. The device is called the StepMetrix and is sold to dairy farms in the United States and also in Europe and sold by the farm equipment company BouMatic. The system uses a computerized system of force plates that are installed on the ground outside the where the cows are housed. Then the cows are fitted with electronic sensors that can be read by the system.

“Every time that a cow walks over the force plates on her way to milking, the plates detect the forces up and down each of the legs,” Dyer says. “It looks at each individual foot as well as the left half of the cow versus the right, the front versus the back.”

The software analyzes the data collected by the force of the plates and then the information comes up with the lameness index for each animal and then tells if each cow is sound or lame.
This technology will help farmers in the long run because they will be able to determine if they are lame sooner just because on the way the cows walk.

plastic and fuel orchards-Bethany Swinehart

Thats right, plastic and fuels being grown in orchards. Well, almost. There is new research being done to decrease the time and cost and increase the efficiency of producing biofuels.

Biofuels are made by converting fructose and glucose into a product called hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) which is the material that is converted into plastics and fuel. The final step is simple however the initial step to create the HMF is a time consuming, and expensive endeavor. According to reasearch at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory(PNNL) the catalyst used originally was of an acid base and was not quite as efficient as planned. The new catalyst liquid is comprised of metal chlorides and under extreme heat. This process allowed for better than 90% recovery of formed HMF and the formed product was higher in purity, and worked up to 10 times faster.

"green" cell phone chargers-by Bethany Swinehart

There are two major renewable energy corporations teaming up for a new product. This product is a green energy outdoor power source to as of right now just recharge your cell phone. It is set for a prototypical release in time for the biggest open-air music fesstival in the UK.

The pump is nothing more than a typical bellows style camping pump that has a turbine attached to it that converts kinetic energy created by the wind resistance against the turbine into electrical energy that will create enough power to recharge your cell phone. Check out http://www.gizmag.com/ Keywords: green energy charger.

COW POWER - ALTERNATE ENERGY FROM COWS- Joe Zimmerman

Fair Oaks Farm is doing what it can to save money where ever it can. They are also doing more than just raising dairy cattle. Turns out they are also in the electricity business too. Using thier manure management system, they are now biorenewable enegry in action. By using a methane digester, they are able to turn cow manuere into fertilizer for crop fields and electricity for the farm and community. This also kills odors in the process too. This transformation is an eco-friendly system which produces enough electricity for 500 homes.

Masser Potato Farms- Joe Zimmerman

While much of the way that the Masser family raises potatoes has remained the same for the past eight generations, new advancements have taken place too. The Masser Potato Farms has developed and implemented various ideals, technologies and programs in order to help advance their campany. One of the biggest adcancements that they have made is the use of computer-controlled sprayers and planters. They now also use center pivot irrigation and a bruise reduction program in there everyday operations. All of these technologies and programs advancements have helped to keep this family business going.

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Beef Cattle Ultrasounds- Joe Zimmerman

Ultrasounds are now finding there way to the beef barns. Development and application of real-time ultrasound to improve body composition traits in beef cattle has been looked at for a long time at Iowa State University. With this technology farmers will be able to measure intramuscular percentage fat (marbling) in both live cattle and carcasses. Some programs that are taking place include supporting technician ceritification programs in cooperation with the Beef Improvement Federation, and hosting training programs for potential technicians from around the world. A number of other program are also being looked. Other possible programs include assist breed associations in the development of expected progeny differences (EPD) using ultrasound measures in conjunction with the more conventional carcass traits. One of the biggest benefits to useing ultrasounds is that it will offer the beef cattle industry a tremendous opportunity in terms of selecting superior seed stock animals and in optimal marketing of feedlot cattle.

Interactive Games In The Classroom- Emily Spahr

Interactive games are everywhere, and at some point in time it's safe to say we all will try them at some point in our lifetimes. I remember a fun little game we played in my high school physiology class which allowed us to make decisions about how to handle an infectious disease outbreak. We were forced to make educated decisions based on the information presented in class and enter them into a web based model to attempt to control the simulated out break.

It was a great tool because each student got to use the knowledge they had been presented and then turn around and apply it to a scenario that was a close to real life as you could get.

Although I can no longer find that particular game, there are several now available on the Internet, and while this one was specifically for infectious diseases, there are other computer simulations available for a variety of topics. It's a great way to gauge student's knowledge and help them to realize the importance of such knowledge in a fun way.

Disease Detective

CDC Science Mystery

Using Carbon Dioxide Lasers in Veterinary Medicine ~Larissa Hileman

At the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, lasers are now changing the options available to horse owners whose animals need surgical procedures. By using LASER, which is abbreviated for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission Radiation. The amplified light of laser is caused by energizing molecules to emit light at a certain wavelength. There exists many different kinds of lasers, each of which creates a specific tissue reaction depending on the wavelength. The CO2 laser is one of the most widely used medical laser in the world. CO2 lasers deliver an intense beam of infrared light with 10,600 nanometers wavelength. This specific wavelength has a great effect on soft tissue which is why it is used in dewclaw removal, ear hematomas, skin tumors, amputations, and the neuturing of dogs.
To read more about the use of the laser on horses, follow this link:http://www.vetmed.wisc.edu/articles/0/5/1072

SPARK Science Learning ~Lynette Hamilton~

The SPARK Science Learning system learning assessment system used in the learning of scientific information such as data collection. The system then can be connected to your computer with a USB cable. The teacher can assign an experiment to the class and the students can use their SPARK units and probes to develop hypotheses, collect data to prove or disprove the hypotheses, and then draw conclusions. Some advantages of this program is it is rugged enough to be taken out doors and can be handled by any age student from elementary to high school, and has the ability to be displayed on a computer screen. Overall the system allows you to collect and put together scientific information and then upload them unto the computer for print out. The cost of this system is $329.

Pain Beam-Brooke White

This is a non-lethal weapon is under the development by the National Institution of Justice. It's goal is to inflict pain from a distance using beams of laser light or microwaves which causes the skin to get hot. It will be used to capture suspects. This tool is a modified version of the laser rifle that was created by the U.S. Airforce. Some Human Rights groups are controversial about this non-lethal weapon. To learn more about it, visit this website: http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn16339-us-police-could-get-pain-beam-weapons.html

Classroom Friendly Search Engines- Emily Spahr

I ran across this website and it looks promising. It is a search engine powered by google, so it has the full force of the web behind it, however it appears to be more user friendly and topic oriented. This search engine uses a puzzle piece feature which allows you to fit the pieces of your topic together in order to find information relevant to your topic of choice. And an even better function is that a teacher can monitor the students searches with a glance because the search criteria is displayed much larger on the computer screen, so a teacher can quickly glance at student's progress.

However, as with all search engine, this one is not exactly perfect or a guarantee. It simply narrows the results by allowing one to pick criteria such as "or, not, and" to attempt to narrow the field. Each time I tried this I never got within a reasonable list of results.

This is a great resource for younger children and a great way to teach them how to better search for information on the Internet.

http://boolify.org/

Its Your Call-Cell Phone Safety Game- Brandy Brinson

Web Wise Kids, in partnership with Verizon, ESA Foundation, and Will Interactive; have created a program that allows middle school children to play out situations in the safety of cyberspace before the teens are confronted with these situations in real life. The program teaches students about safe cell phone use and how to use other devices to protect yourself. Students become live action characters in an interactive film, the student's characters are presented with difficult descions. Once they make their choices the students face the consequences of their actions.

Drought Tolerant Crops- Sarah Ervin

It is currently being developed and is a tough gene to isolate. Seed geneticists are working overtime to get this done, and the first company to do it will have high demand for this product. The outlook is to have this drought tolerant crop developed in the next decade. For mor info on new ag technologies, click here.

Autonomous Tractor-Sarah Ervin

Autonomous tractors are exactly as the name sounds, driverless. They will soon be around for purchase. A lot of equipment manufacturers have experiment with this equipment, but have not took it past the research stage. It hasn't came about yet because it mush be perfect to sense when a person, animal, or object is around. For more info, click here.

Active Rollover Protection Systems-Megan Mullet

While I could not find a lot of information on this topic-I found it very interesting. This technology is still in the making but in the future they hope to have tractors that can detect a rollover coming and be able to prevent it despite what the operator is doing. This technology is developing much quicker with the automotive industry but is quickly approaching in agriculture as well. I almost feel that it is more important in ag, just because of all the tractors that are now capable of running on autopilot. The technology is able to measure the slopes of the land and completely disables the equipment when it reaches a dangerous level which prevents a rollover accident from occurring. I find this especially important in tractors because of the number of operators I know that disregard their safety belts. This technology has the ability to decrease agricultural related accidents drastically.