Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering Commons^™

Ventilation System Design Parameters For Greenhouses For Tobacco Production, R. S. Gates, George A. Duncan

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Methods for germination and initial growth of tobacco have changed rapidly in recent years, moving from outside float beds into double-layer plastic greenhouses. Typically, these "tobacco greenhouses" consist of sidewall curtains, which run the entire length of both sides of the house. They may also have modest mechanical ventilation.

Ventilation of greenhouse structures is a mature field, with engineering practices for proper design given by numerous organizations including ASAE. In this article we briefly outline the important features of ventilation of concern to tobacco greenhouse operators.

Geotextile Feeding/Traffic Surfaces And Costs, Larry W. Turner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Mud robs Kentucky beef and dairy producers of performance from their cattle herds in winter and spring conditions. To help avoid the problems associated with mud and reduced performance, concrete pads or lower-cost all-weather surfaces should be used wherever animals congregate--- feeding areas, animal traffic areas and loafing areas. Although concrete is probably the most desirable surface for durability and low maintenance, an all-weather surface can be constructed of geotextile fabric, rock and fine surface cover for less than 1/3 of the cost of concrete. Rock over bare soil in Kentucky requires approximately 12" of depth for stability. In contrast, …

Rops Retro-Fit Fact Sheet, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

ROPS were first introduced commercially in 1966.

ROPS first became available for most new tractors in the late 60's or early 70's.

ROPS became standard equipment on most new tractors manufactured after 1985.

Cost Comparisons For Burley Tobacco Housing And Curing Facilities And Methods, College Of Agriculture, University Of Kentucky

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

With the several options now available for housing and curing burley (conventional tobacco barn types, cable-hoist system and field curing structures), producers often ask and need to know comparative costs of the various options. Barns have a higher initial cost, long life and assessable value to the farm. The one-tier field structures initially cost about one-third that of a barn per acre of capacity and have labor savings and periodic plastic replacement cost. Low-cost cantilever type field curing structures and frames are even lower in cost and reduce labor but have annual plastic replacement costs and some higher weather risks. …

Water Systems For Controlled Grazing, Larry W. Turner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Intensive controlled or rotational grazing can be an important tool for beef and dairy producers in Kentucky. A key component for success with this type of operation is the availability of adequate drinking water for livestock on pasture.

Quantities, flow rates and location of water for rotational grazing will be considered in this fact sheet. Systems supplying water under pressure through hose or pipe to a tank or water bowl will be discussed in detail.

A Field Curing Structure And Mechanized Housing System For Burley Tobacco, Linus R. Walton, Larry D. Swetnam, George A. Duncan

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Two deterrents to expansion of production of burley tobacco are a lack of barn room located conveniently to the tobacco fields and a lack of hired labor for harvesting and housing, In working toward a solution to these problems, engineers from the Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Department have designed and fabricated a field curing structure with a mechanized housing system. The field curing structure has three rows of posts set in the ground to provide columnar strength for the structure. Cross members are set on top of the columns to support the tobacco when it is placed into the structure. …

Moveable Curing Frames, George A. Duncan, Larry D. Swetnam, Linus R. Walton

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Low cost, low labor, moveable, sturdy, dependable and easily covered -- is this an ideal curing structure? Can it be done? Seeking such a design is the aim of ongoing studies using the cantilever-beam concept for supporting two rails of stick tobacco on a central beam.

Drying Considerations For The 1996 Corn Crop, Douglas G. Overhults, Samuel G. Mcneill

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

The com harvest season has already started on some farms and is rapidly approaching for many others. Current market opportunities and previous contractual arrangements have some farmers thinking about starting their harvest earlier than usual. Other factors also suggest that a substantial portion of this year's crop could be harvested at moisture contents between 24 and 32%.

Operational Considerations For Harvesting Corn Above 25% Moisture Content, Samuel G. Mcneill, Douglas G. Overhults

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Many of Kentucky's grain farmers are interested in harvesting corn at higher moistures than in recent years because of potential market trends and weather patterns. Corn that was planted early is near maturity in many western KY counties and fortunately, the market is higher than in previous years. Additionally, most elevators are offering premiums between 25 and 50 cents per bushel for corn delivered prior to Sept. 15 this year, so farmers who have drying equipment are poised to take advantage of this rare opportunity. In contrast, late planted corn may be threatened by an early frost, so actually both …

Vendors Of Shade Cloth, Cooling Equipment And Geotextile Fabric, Larry W. Turner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

No abstract provided.

Permitting Procedures For Operation Of Liquid Livestock Waste Handling Facilities, J. L. Taraba, R. M. Williams

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Owners and operators of livestock waste management facilitates should be aware that livestock wastes have been identified as a source of pollutants in Kentucky streams. In order to protect these water sources a number of laws and regulations have been implemented to restrict the discharge of pollutants from point sources into the waters of the commonwealth. The Division of Water (DOW) is a division of the Kentucky Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet, Department for Environmental Protect ion and operates under authority set forth in the Federal Water Pollution Control Act and Kentucky Revised statute 224. The DOW is specifically …

Reducing Mud Using Highway-Type Filter Materials, Larry W. Turner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Several beef and dairy producers across the country have been successful in dramatically reducing mud problems without resorting to the use of expensive concrete or pavement. A load-bearing material used in the highway industry can be placed in high animal traffic areas, on mounds, around feed bunks and in "transition " areas where animals move onto or off of concrete. The materials are of two basic types; 1) geotextiles, which are a porous filter-type material, and 2) polyethelye-type plastic grid material. Costs for installing the finished surface are about one-third the cost of concrete.

Flood Gates For Agricultural Fences, Larry W. Turner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Flood gates are needed wherever fences cross ditches, gullies, and streams. They prevent livestock from swimming or crawling under the fence, and prevent debris from forming a dam that might wash out the fence or back up water to flood fields or other property.

Safe Movement Of Farm Equipment On Public Roads, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

The increasing size of farming operations brings with it an increased movement of equipment on the road. As road travel increases so does the potential for serious highway accidents. The most frequent accidents are collisions with other motor vehicles and loss of control which often leads to tractor over-turns. As an operator of farm equipment, your use of the proper safety equipment and good driving practices will greatly reduce the risk of an accident.

Program Guide: Fire Extinguishers: Protection For The Home And Farm, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

The right kind of fire extinguisher conveniently located and properly used can greatly reduce the potential losses from a fire. However, the user must have a knowledge of the common types of extinguishers, the types of fires for which they are safe and effective and the proper operating procedures.

Program Guide: Smoke Detectors Can Save Your Life, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Smoke detectors have the potential of greatly reducing the number of deaths resulting from home fires and at a very reasonable cost to the consumer. Yet some homes still do not have smoke detectors installed or do not have a sufficient number to provide a minimum level of protection.

Program Guide: A Home Fire Escape Plan, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

A home fire escape plan and regular practice with fire exit drills are essential for protecting a family from the potential disaster of a home fire. When a fire occurs, it is critical that everybody knows what to do, and through practice they have the know-how and confidence to do it.

Pesticide Application And Handling Technology: Installing A Sprayer Tank Rinse Circuit, G. A. Watkins, Samuel G. Mcneill, S. A. Shearer

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Proper tank rinsing techniques for agricultural sprayers are very important in order to protect against cross-contamination in subsequent loads and to ensure safe disposal of any excess chemicals and rinsate (rinse water). Spray tanks and other sprayer components should be cleaned after each use. In most situations, sprayer rinsate will have to be sprayed out in the field - either onto a reserved strip, or by over-spraying in the treated area (subject to the terms of the product label).

Pesticide Application And Handling Technology: Proper Disposal Of Empty Pesticide Containers, G. A. Watkins, Samuel G. Mcneill, S. A. Shearer

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Recycling has become more and more popular as our awareness of environmental concerns grow. These environmental concerns have led to increased participation in recycling efforts among today's farmers. Many farmers throughout Kentucky are now able to recycle their empty plastic pesticide containers (Five gallon or less) due to a statewide Rinse and Return program. Recycling of empty containers provides a safe means of disposal for applicators, reduces landfill space, and protects our valuable water resources.

Notes On Wiring Greenhouses For Tobacco Float Plants, Doug Overhults

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Following are some guidelines for electrical wiring in greenhouses that are being constructed to grow tobacco transplants. A greenhouse is distinctly different from a residence; different wiring practices should be used. This material closely follows the National Electrical Code (NEC) but is not intended to be a complete installation guide. The purpose is to provide some basic suggestions for planning a safe electrical system. Additional details can be found in the "Farm Buildings Wiring Handbook" (MWPS-28) available from the UK Ag. Engineering Plan Service.

Grain Suffocation Hazards, Larry R. Piercy

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Grain and feed storage systems are a common sight on Kentucky farms and usually present no particular hazard for the user. However, flowing grain or grain that is caked or spoiled can pose a serious threat of entrapment and suffocation. To protect yourself and your family, you need to become familiar with this potential hazard.

Generation And Legal Regulation Of Odors Form Animal Manures, J. L. Taraba, R. M. Williams

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

The present trend of animal and dairy product producers is toward total confinement facilities and larger animal herds. Generally the rewards to the producer for these practices are higher economic returns which result from higher feeding efficiencies and better quality products. However, total confinement is not without problems that were previously not present or were minimal in nature when animals were maintained in fields. Confinement facilities have a greater impact on environmental quality of both water and air. Presently, one of the major problems facing animal and dairy product producers is odor production. The greatest number of complaints concerning environmental …

Laws And Regulation Impacting Livestock Wastes In Kentucky, J. L. Taraba, R. M. Williams

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

In recent years, the number of laws and regulations prescribing the rules for everyday life seem to be ever more complex and pervasive. Changing farming methods, expansion of the urban community and increasing public environmental concerns have increased the agricultural producer's need to think more seriously about his method of livestock waste disposal. Laws, regulations, practices, standards and ordinances range from the obvious (solid waste management) to the not so obvious (protection of endangered species). The public has protection from the farmers (discharge permits) and the farmer has protection from the public (Right to Farm laws). The following is an …

Solid Livestock Waste Regulatory Requirements, J. L. Taraba, W. D. Thom, Anthony J. Pescatore, R. M. Williams

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Proper management and utilization of livestock waste can be a significant contribution to the economic well being of a livestock enterprise, since the wastes have considerable economic value if properly utilized. When returned to the soil as fertilize or soil conditioner, the value as a nutrient source has been will established. More recently, processed livestock wastes have been utilized as a high protein feed additives. Livestock waste should be considered a resource to be utilized rather than a disposal problem.

Kentucky State Agencies With Water Responsibilities, Joseph L. Taraba

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

On the following pages are a list of Kentucky state government agencies that have responsibilities and programs that relate to water in the areas of quality, health, supply, financing, flood control, recreation and tourism. For local programs on water, one of these agencies might be able to supply material, personnel or other programming information that would aid of your local extension water issue goals.

Pesticide Application And Handling Technology: Decreasing Drift Potential During Application, G. A. Watkins, Samuel G. Mcneill, James R. Martin, S. A. Shearer

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Accidental spray drift from pesticide applications can result in dangerous conditions for humans, animals, and the environment. It also can mean extra costs for the applicator due to wasted chemical and inefficient applications. Although complete elimination of spray drift is nearly impossible, drift problems and their effects on our environment can be minimized with proper application techniques and favorable weather conditions.

Underground Farm Petroleum Storage Tanks, Mike Williams, Joseph L. Taraba, Scott Shearer

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Protection of farmstead water supplies is a topic which should be a prime concern of every rural landowner. Contamination of underground and surface water supplies by pesticides, fertilizers and petroleum products is a real and present hazard of modern agricultural operations. Contaminated soil and water sources can result in immediate, obvious losses such as unhealthy livestock and the need to develop alternative water sources, and long term losses such as reduced land values.

Full-Wall Ventilation For Dairy Free Stall Barns, Larry M. Turner, John P. Chastain

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Heat stress should be a greater concern than winter cold for dairymen in Kentucky. Heat stress can cause drops in milk production and breeding efficiency, which result in lower profits for the dairyman. The use of an open sidewall free stall barn can help relieve heat stress by allowing improved ventilation of the barn in summer. The benefits of full-wall ventilation include both improved air movement and some potential increase in evaporative cooling. The increased airflow through the barn increases convective cooling of the cows and carries off a greater amount of excess heat and moisture than conventional barns with …

Electronic Controls For Swine Buildings, Douglas G. Overhults, R. S. Gates

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

This fact sheet discusses the use of electronic controllers to maintain the environment within swine barns. There are some special considerations when using electronic controllers to replace traditional control systems. Three main items are addressed in this fact sheet: 1) the selection of a controller, 2) installation considerations, and 3) protection against controller failure.

Using Topographic Maps In Extension, Richard C. Warner

Agricultural Engineering Extension Updates

Enclosed is an index of available topographic maps, as of September, 1990, which covers the entire state. Most counties will need twelve maps to obtain complete coverage. county agents will find that these maps will significantly aid producers in making decisions about pond locations, drainage, location of structures, elevation differences, slopes, etc. Detailed topographic maps can be obtained from:

• KY Geological Survey
  228 Mining & Mineral Resources Bldg.
  University of Kentucky
  Lexington, Ky 40546-0107
• Eastern Distribution Branch
  U.S. Geological Survey
  1200 South Eads Street
  Arlington, VA 22202
• Western Distribution Branch
  U.S. Geological Survey
  Federal Center, Box 25286
  Denver, CO 80225