Farms, Centers and Forests

The Missouri Agricultural Experiment Station (AES) conducts research in agriculture, forestry, animal science and natural resources that benefits the citizens of Missouri. This research is geared to making the most effective use possible of the state's natural resource base, including its people resources, in an increasingly global economy.

Thompson Farm

The Thompson Farm is located in Spickard, Mo. George Drury donated the land for the facility in 1956. The 1,600-acre research center focuses on beef cattle production systems and crops management. Animal projects evaluate the efficiency and economics of cow-calf management practices; steer/heifer backgrounding and cattle finishing options. Crop management options (varieties, fertility, pesticide) are also being evaluated. Because of the large cattle numbers, forages receive substantial research attention. Additionally, opportunities for alternative crops are being explored.

Development of an effective protocol for estrous synchronization and timed artificial insemination for beef heifers and cows continues. David Patterson, state beef extension specialist, is helping to create a new long-term progestin CIDR-based protocol (CIDR Select) to synchronize estrus in replacement beef heifers. This research has been made possible through a USDA-NRI integrated grant.

The farm is involved with a second USDA-NRI integrated grant to investigate ways to expand marketing opportunities for small- and medium-sized beef producers from value-added heifers and steers. The specific aim of the research is add value to beef heifers and steers by expanding marketing opportunities through technology adoption, production verification, and best management practices.

Southwest Missouri Center

Southwest Missouri Center, Mt. Vernon, Mo., was established in 1959 through the purchase of an 898-acre site that represented soil types in the region. Strategies for overcoming fescue toxicosis and promotion of environmental techniques for processing wastes such as pasture fertilizers highlight current research. Forage grass breeding conducted at the center has been instrumental in the development of three new "endophyte-free" tall fescue varieties. Small grains research focuses on variety testing and development, proper fertilization practices and harvest management alternatives. Horticultural research provides information on viable production alternatives for both commercial producers and home gardeners interested in small fruits and vegetables.

The 2008 Annual Field Day was the 46th Annual Field in the history of the Center. It highlighted the latest information and research in areas of beef, dairy, forage and horticulture production.

After a hiatus of more than 20 years, grapes are once again growing at the Southwest Center. Two studies involving the promising wine-grape cultivar 'Chambourcin' were planted, with a third study slated for installation next winter. The new vineyard, near the headquarters building, covers two acres and will eventually contain nearly 1,000 plants. This project is being conducted in cooperation from the Institute for Continental Climate Viticulture and Enology (ICCVE), located on the MU campus. Missouri now has 78 wineries with more opening every year as the quality and distinctiveness of Missouri wines continue to improve. Wine tasting and "agri-tourism" are becoming increasingly popular in Missouri, as is the interest in locally-produced, value-added agricultural products such as wine and grape juice. Both basic and cutting-edge research conducted by the University will provide scientifically-based guidance needed to make grapes a major commodity in Missouri once again.

Escalating feed and fertilizer prices have eroded profitability in the beef industry nationwide. With over 54,000 beef operations and the second largest beef herd in the U.S., Missouri stands to lose a lot. Southwest Center cattle efficiency researchers have found how many pounds a cow gains per pound of feed consumed varies between animals. On average, the most efficient animal in a typical herd eats 20 percent less than her inefficient counterpart. By selecting for this genetically inherited trait, producers can raise the same number of cattle but pay less for feed costs.