Inadequate water intake affects dry matter intake, milk production, growth rate, reproductive performance, and forage utilization. Water is the driver that supports digestion, absorption, and waste excretion, along with lubricating joints and tissues. It facilitates thermoregulation and enables nutrient transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Livestock consumes 2.5-4% of their body weight in water daily; this amount increases for lactating animals. Each species of livestock has an average water consumption per day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water sources available will vary from operation to operation. Some typical water sources include farm ponds, streams or creeks, groundwater wells, and city water (treated). Every animal needs easy and clean access to water sources to thrive. Some animals will require more water than others, so multiple sources may be needed. Herd dynamics will play a role in water access for all individuals. The location of the water troughs should be easily accessed by all herd members. It is important to check that the height of the water does not exclude young animals. Be careful to consider animal safety. Some animals will play in open waters. Many types of watering systems can be deployed in an operation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n These systems are typically either gravity-fed<\/em> <\/strong>or pumped <\/strong><\/em>systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Automatic water systems<\/em><\/strong> are very helpful with large herds and large acreage. Automatic systems can be cost-limiting with higher upfront costs for installation. The systems need to be checked regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Manual systems<\/strong><\/em> are helpful when funds are limited, but can be costly over time. These can be accomplished with hoses or drums\/buckets. Buckets should be moved regularly. There is a daily labor cost, and waters can become dirty. It is important to ask yourself, \u201cDid I turn off the water?\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water troughs are constructed of various materials. Concrete is durable, but expensive and permanent. Polyurethane is lightweight, affordable, but easily breakable, and steel is durable but comes with corrosion risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n WATER QUALITY MATTERS<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Do not overlook livestock water quality.<\/em><\/strong> The Water may appear clean and odorless, but it can contain harmful contaminants that can cause significant issues in production. Research on the impacts of water quality on livestock is limited and ongoing. It has been found that certain contaminants can cause livestock to stop eating, stunt growth, or even lead to death. An excess of one mineral or a lack of it can affect the ability of several other minerals within the animal’s body. Certain contaminants can decrease livestock water consumption by smells not always detectable by the human nose. Iron, sulfur\/sulfates, and salts can have significant impacts. High levels of sulfates and chlorides are considered salts, which can cause growth problems and diarrhea. Excess iron often shows as a red coloration in stock tanks, or it will leave a red stain. Excess iron absorbed by drinking water high in iron concentration may inhibit copper and zinc absorption, leading to a condition called cellular oxidative stress. These contaminants can compromise immune function and other essential functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n How often are you checking the water troughs? DIRTY WATER REQUIRES THOROUGH CLEANING<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If you answered yes to any of the above questions, your trough needs cleaning. It is recommended that producers clean out physical debris often (daily\/weekly), chemically disinfect and scrub the system at least twice a year. Cleaning during the late spring and summer months will help keep bacteria levels down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A handheld pool skimmer works well for removing debris from open troughs. To thoroughly clean the trough, it will need to be drained entirely. Purchasing troughs with already built-in drains or installing drains will save your back and your time!<\/p>\n\n\n\n It is essential to exclude wildlife from water systems. Wildlife can cause many issues for livestock health by spreading viruses and diseases.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Steps for the sanitation of water systems<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Prevention of recurring algal growth<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Chlorine bleach <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommended algae preventative<\/p>\n\n\n\n 2-3 oz of household bleach per 50 gallons of water can be added when refilling the tank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This results in a minimal chlorine concentration in the water, which is safe for livestock to drink and will help control algae.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Heat will eventually burn off the bleach; the addition of bleach should be repeated once a week to remain effective in hot summer months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adding bleach at a greater concentration could risk creating high chlorine contamination levels and deter livestock from drinking. Unscented regular household bleach (5\u20136% concentration; no highly concentrated solutions, pastes, or gels) should be used for these ratios.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Copper Sulfate<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n At a rate of 1\/8 teaspoon per 100 gallons of water can control algae growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remove all dead algae from the system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A special consideration is copper sensitivity in certain animals, such as sheep.<\/strong> Adding copper sulfate to the water they drink can lead to copper toxicity.<\/strong> Copper may also be harsh on metal tanks and piping. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Goldfish<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Goldfish added to a water trough can be an effective biological control of algae, with the recommendation of 4-6 goldfish per 100 gallons of water.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Goldfish survive best with water temperatures above 60 degrees F.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Fish kills can occur if water levels become too low or the water temperature drops in the winter, depleting oxygen. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Barley Straw<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Barley straw aids in the control of algae.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Barley straw will not kill existing algae, but it inhibits the new growth of algae.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This mechanism is still being researched and is poorly understood.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Barley straw, when exposed to sunlight and oxygen, produces a chemical that inhibits algae growth. Barley straw pouches are being sold in livestock feed stores for this purpose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n SHADE<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n If possible, keep water troughs out of direct sunlight. Direct sunlight will encourage algae growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Water Testing for water quality<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n It is recommended to test water for nitrates, dissolved solids, salts, pH, and fecal coliform BEFORE initial use. Testing for Coliform bacteria \u2013 recommended to test annually.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson University Agricultural Service Laboratory<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Irrigation Water Tests<\/p>\n\n\n\n Request a Special Test- pH, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, sodium, chlorine, boron, sulfur, nitrate, nitrogen, bicarbonate, carbonate, and calculated sodium absorption, Some of these will not be of concern for livestock water, but minerals and metals like iron, zinc, copper, and calcium are impactful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Irrigation Water Sample Form<\/em>: https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/public\/regulatory\/ag-srvc-lab\/irrigation-water<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n To test for coliform bacteria, private labs are an option, as well as well water testing through the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson University Plant and Pest Diagnostic Clinic<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Algae samples can be sent to the lab for identification. This is important to do if you have an algal bloom with the following<\/p>\n\n\n\n You may have a Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB). Cyanobacteria blooms have been labeled \u201charmful algal blooms\u201d because they can release toxins into waterways as cyanobacteria cells die and break down. These cyanotoxins can impact human and animal nervous systems and liver, irritate skin, cause gastrointestinal issues, and contribute to the development of tumors and death.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Plant\/Weed Identification Form:<\/em> https:\/\/clemson.app.box.com\/s\/tv5d0z4aaowqrfvlisdyqftfh92k6rwl<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n For additional information, reach out to<\/p>\n\n\n\n References:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Keeping Your Farm Well: How Water Quality Can Impact Livestock<\/p>\n\n\n\n Authors: Alec Janis and MacKenzie White, UConn Extension<\/p>\n\n\n\n Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service offers its programs to people of all ages, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, political beliefs, sex, marital or family status and is an equal opportunity employer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Livestock Water System Maintenance & Clean Water Safety Molly Jones, Regional Water Resources Agent & Nicole Correa, Regional Livestock and Forages Agent What is the primary limiting nutrient for performance in all livestock species? WATER. Inadequate water intake affects dry matter intake, milk production, growth rate, reproductive performance, and forage utilization. Water is the driver […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4162,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70041,70314,70572,70898,71196,72615,71463,71749,72047,52346,72391],"tags":[72614,72616,13275],"coauthors":[114923],"class_list":["post-2649","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-beaufort","category-calhoun","category-clarendon","category-colleton","category-hampton","category-jasper","category-livestock-forages","category-orangeburg","tag-berkeley","tag-dorchester","tag-water-resources"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2649","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4162"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2649"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2649\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2649"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2649"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2649"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2649"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2645,"date":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","date_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2645"},"modified":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","modified_gmt":"2026-03-20T18:44:10","slug":"nuts-about-production-pecan-meeting-report","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/nuts-about-production-pecan-meeting-report\/","title":{"rendered":"“Nuts About Production” Pecan Meeting Report"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Anna Sara Hill and Brianna Naumuk hosted a statewide pecan production meeting entitled \u201cNuts About Production\u201d in Columbia, SC on February 25, 2026. The invited speakers were the UGA Pecan team, led by Lenny Wells (PhD), the leading pecan research specialist in the southeast. The team included Apurba Barman (PhD), an entomologist specializing in pecan and citrus insects, Clemons Olivera (PhD), specializing in pecan and peanut plant pathology and Andrew Sawyer, UGA extension specialist, who specializes in everything pecan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Topics included pecan nutrients, insect pest management, disease management and weed management. The speakers were a wealth of knowledge and provided the group with pertinent information. The audience was actively engaged and asked numerous questions throughout the session. There were 42 participants in attendance.<\/p>\n\n\n The meal catered by Apple Spice, was sponsored by WP Law, Timac Agro, Corteva, Golden Kernal, and Orchard Machinery Company (OMC). The City of Columbia provided the venue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On behalf of Clemson Extension, we are grateful to the speakers, sponsors, and City of Columbia employees for making this event possible. We also thank the pecan growers who took the time and effort to travel and attend this meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent Anna Sara Hill and Brianna Naumuk hosted a statewide pecan production meeting entitled \u201cNuts About Production\u201d in Columbia, SC on February 25, 2026. The invited speakers were the UGA Pecan team, led by Lenny Wells (PhD), the leading pecan research specialist in the southeast. The team included Apurba Barman […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[15496,70041,70314,70572,70898,71196,72615,71463,114470,71749,905,72047,114917,72391],"tags":[72614,15606,72616],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2645","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-aiken","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-beaufort","category-calhoun","category-clarendon","category-colleton","category-edgefield","category-hampton","category-horticulture","category-jasper","category-lexington","category-orangeburg","tag-berkeley","tag-charleston","tag-dorchester"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2645","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2645"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2645\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2645"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2645"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2645"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2645"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2637,"date":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","date_gmt":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2637"},"modified":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","modified_gmt":"2026-03-16T15:03:47","slug":"4-h-clover-contact-2","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/4-h-clover-contact-2\/","title":{"rendered":"4-H Clover Contact"},"content":{"rendered":"\n By Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent<\/p>\n\n\n\n 4-H agents in neighboring counties are working hard to keep 4-H going in multiple counties as we fill vacant positions. We welcome Lina Prillaman to Berkeley County as the 4-H Youth Development agent. She is a life-long 4-H\u2019er and brings great ideas from her work in Virginia 4-H. Please continue to reach out to the Extension Office if you have any 4-H needs or questions. The county administrative assistant will have an agent return your call or provide an answer to your question. <\/p>\n\n\n The heavy dusting of pollen lets us know that Spring is here! The warmer temperatures and return of birds, pollinators, and forest friends have garden planning at the forefront of everyone\u2019s agenda. What a perfect time for youth to register for the 4-H Small Garden Project.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The 4-H small garden project is an independent project that runs from May through August and teaches participants the benefits of soil monitoring, plant identification, pest management, fiscal responsibility, and goal setting, with the opportunity to put that learning into practice. When your garden is in full production, someone from Clemson Extension will visit your garden to assess the health and vigor of your plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Youth may participate individually or with a group. The project is open to any 4-H member aged 5 to 18. There is a $25 project fee to cover the cost of materials included in the kits. The registration deadline is April 3, 2026; don\u2019t miss out on this fun project. Register for the SC 4-H Small Garden Project at https:\/\/2026SC4-HSmallGardenProject.eventbrite.com.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Registration is also open for the 4-H Rabbit Project. In this independent project, participants will care for their rabbits and prepare them for the show. Throughout the project, youth and their families will receive a project newsletter that provides valuable information to ensure success. Additional opportunities for participants include a presentation contest, a Quiz Bowl, and a rabbit knowledge test. As in all 4-H projects, participants will learn to set goals, participate in learning activities, and build record-keeping and financial management skills.<\/p>\n\n\n The 4-H Rabbit project is open to youth ages 5-18. Youth will need to secure their own rabbit for the project. The project runs from May through October and has showmanship workshops during the summer. Registration for the 4-H Rabbit Project closes on April 3, 2026. There is a $25 fee to participate. To register for the project, visit https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-sc-4-h-rabbit-project-tickets-1983083593411?aff=oddtdtcreator<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n The 4-H Laying Flock Project is open for registration until May 1, 2026. The Laying Flock Project is for youth who already have chickens. Youth will reflect on their work through the completion of a record book, where they will learn to set goals, manage finances, and gain valuable life lessons by caring and providing for their flock.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Throughout the project, youth and their families will receive a newsletter that provides valuable information, including show dates, deadlines, and poultry-related details. The project costs $10, and there is an option to add a sibling for an additional fee. The project is open to youth 5-18. This project runs from May to October, with showmanship clinics during the summer to prepare for Fall shows. To learn more or register, visit https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-4-h-laying-flock-project-registration-1980468880735?aff=oddtdtcreator.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n The 4-H Dairy Project is an independent or club project that engages youth ages 5-18 in learning life skills while working with dairy cows and replacement heifers. Participants will receive show dates, deadline reminders, and dairy-related information via the South Carolina 4-H Livestock Program and Clemson Spring Dairy Show Facebook pages. A variety of educational events will be held throughout the year, including dairy judging workshops and practice opportunities, fitting and showmanship clinics, junior breed organization events and various scholarships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The Dairy Heifer Project provides opportunities for youth to learn about dairying and the dairy industry. The Dairy Heifer Project began in 1974 and was designed to provide boys and girls in South Carolina with an opportunity to raise a dairy heifer, experience the dairy industry, and sell their heifer at the South Carolina Dairy Bred Heifer Sale before she begins milking. The project is a long-term (approximately 20 months) project. Youth receive their heifers by random draw when they are 3-4 months old, care for and show, and then sell them as a bred heifer in the SC Youth Dairy Heifer Sale. In addition, the SC Dairy Bred Heifer Sale serves as an excellent source of herd replacements for South Carolina dairymen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Application deadline:<\/strong> March 20, 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n To learn more and to register, visit https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/cattle\/dairy.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n The SC 4-H Horse program has several upcoming events for participants. To learn more about the opportunities, visit https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/program-areas\/agriculture-animals\/horse.html.<\/a> <\/p>\n\n\n\n To learn more about South Carolina 4-H and the opportunities available, please visit https:\/\/www.clemson.edu\/extension\/4h\/index.html<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/em><\/a><\/strong> Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent By Dawn Stuckey, Senior Agent 4-H agents in neighboring counties are working hard to keep 4-H going in multiple counties as we fill vacant positions. We welcome Lina Prillaman to Berkeley County as the 4-H Youth Development agent. She is a life-long 4-H\u2019er and brings great ideas from her work in […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,71749],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2637","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-hampton"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2637","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2637"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2637\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2637"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2637"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2637"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2637"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2634,"date":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T20:12:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2634"},"modified":"2026-04-15T19:55:42","modified_gmt":"2026-04-15T19:55:42","slug":"equipping-growers-for-success-production-meetings-draw-strong-crowds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/equipping-growers-for-success-production-meetings-draw-strong-crowds\/","title":{"rendered":"Equipping Growers for Success: Production Meetings Draw Strong Crowds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n The Clemson Extension Allendale County office recently hosted three well-attended production meetings focused on Corn and Soybeans, Peanuts, and Crop Risk Management. More than 100 area producers participated across the three sessions, gathering to gain valuable insights and prepare for the upcoming growing season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Area Agronomy Agents Rogan Gibson and Joe Varn helped organize and conduct the meetings. In addition to coordinating the educational programs, they ensured growers had the opportunity to earn private pesticide credit hours by participating in the trainings\u2014an important benefit as producers work to maintain their certifications.<\/p>\n\n\n The Corn and Soybeans Production Meeting delivered the latest research updates, best management practices, and guidance on maximizing yields while managing input costs. Specialists shared timely recommendations on fertility programs, pest control strategies, and emerging production technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n During the Peanut Production Meeting, growers received information tailored specifically to the region\u2019s peanut production challenges. Discussions included disease management, variety selection, and strategies to improve profitability in a competitive market environment.<\/p>\n\n\n The Crop Risk Management Meeting addressed one of the most critical aspects of modern agriculture\u2014managing uncertainty. Producers learned about marketing strategies and financial planning tools designed to help safeguard their operations against high input prices and market fluctuations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The strong turnout reflects the commitment of local farmers to continuous improvement and sound decision-making. Through educational events like these, Clemson Extension continues to support the success and sustainability of agriculture across Allendale County and the surrounding region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Rogan Gibson, Extension Agronomy Agent The Clemson Extension Allendale County office recently hosted three well-attended production meetings focused on Corn and Soybeans, Peanuts, and Crop Risk Management. More than 100 area producers participated across the three sessions, gathering to gain valuable insights and prepare for the upcoming growing season. Area Agronomy Agents Rogan Gibson and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[68635,70041,70314,70572,71749],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2634","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-agronomic-crops","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-hampton"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2634","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2634"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2634\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2634"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2634"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2634"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2634"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2628,"date":"2026-02-26T19:09:56","date_gmt":"2026-02-26T19:09:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2628"},"modified":"2026-02-26T19:30:35","modified_gmt":"2026-02-26T19:30:35","slug":"color-your-plate-eat-more-vegetables-and-fruits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/color-your-plate-eat-more-vegetables-and-fruits\/","title":{"rendered":"Color Your Plate! Eat More Vegetables and Fruits"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Eating more vegetables and fruits may lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and cancer, and help with weight control. Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Youth attending the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville, SC, participated in a session on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. After the brief conversation, the youth were engaged in creating a Colorful Black Bean Salad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n Suggestions for Families<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Felicia C. Cunningham, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Jasper County Eating more vegetables and fruits may lower your risk for heart disease, stroke, and cancer, and help with weight control. Fill half your plate with vegetables and fruits. Youth attending the Agape Family Life Center in Hardeeville, SC, participated in a session on the importance of […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3978,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[13303,72047],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114926],"class_list":["post-2628","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-4-h","category-jasper"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2628","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3978"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2628"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2628\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2628"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2628"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2628"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2628"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2626,"date":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","date_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2626"},"modified":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:11:47","slug":"cucurbit-production-meeting-post-meeting-report","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/cucurbit-production-meeting-post-meeting-report\/","title":{"rendered":"Cucurbit Production Meeting- Post Meeting Report"},"content":{"rendered":"\n The Clemson Cooperative Extension held a cucurbit production meeting at the Edisto Research and Education Center on February 5, 2026 in partnership with the SC Watermelon Association. The meeting was entitled \u201cCultivating Solutions for SC Cucurbit Growers\u201d and covered topics including management of manganese toxicity in cucurbits, weed control in cucurbits, management of anthracnose in watermelon, and insect ID.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The presenters were Rob Last, Matt Cutulle, Ph.D., Anthony Keinath, Ph.D., and Anna Sara Hill, respectively. The program included a guest speaker from UGA Extension, John Bennett. He discussed his research on the effectiveness of Smurfit WestRock Paper Mulch in Georgia Watermelon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n An interactive insect identification quiz and a general quiz on covered topics encouraged attendee interaction. The quiz winners were presented with a jug of Roundup, donated by Meherrin Ag of Ridge Springs, and a socket wrench set, compliments of Napa Auto Parts in Barnwell. The delicious meal was catered by Buzzy Bunch and sponsored by AgSouth Farm Credit, Carolina Eastern, Enza Zaden, Helena, Nurtien Ag Solutions, Sakata, Simplot, Seedway, TriEst Ag Group and UPL.<\/p>\n\n\n A total of 45 people attended, with the overwhelming majority being area growers. Preliminary feedback indicates that some growers are already planning to implement some of the information they gathered from the meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lastly, I would like to extend sincere thanks to the Watermelon Association, Sponsors, Blaz-N-Buzz Catering, speakers, and my fellow co-workers who helped to make this meeting a success. I am also extremely grateful to all the growers who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the meeting and support Clemson Extension. On behalf of Clemson Extension and myself, I appreciate your ongoing support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent The Clemson Cooperative Extension held a cucurbit production meeting at the Edisto Research and Education Center on February 5, 2026 in partnership with the SC Watermelon Association. The meeting was entitled \u201cCultivating Solutions for SC Cucurbit Growers\u201d and covered topics including management of manganese toxicity in cucurbits, weed control […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70041,70314,70572,71463,71749,905,114917],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2626","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-colleton","category-hampton","category-horticulture","category-lexington"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2626","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2626"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2626\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2626"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2626"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2626"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2626"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2623,"date":"2026-02-09T21:01:02","date_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:01:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2623"},"modified":"2026-02-09T21:01:49","modified_gmt":"2026-02-09T21:01:49","slug":"is-it-best-to-direct-seed-or-transplant-a-garden","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/is-it-best-to-direct-seed-or-transplant-a-garden\/","title":{"rendered":"Is It Best to Direct\u00a0Seed or Transplant a Garden?\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"\n Have you ever planted seeds in your garden and had them germinate slowly, unevenly, or not at all? What about when a heavy rain comes a few days after direct seeding and the seeds float? These incidents can be frustrating after all that time and effort you put into planting the perfect garden. Many factors can affect seed germination, and sometimes it is difficult to pinpoint the exact reason. A good alternative method to direct seeding is transplanting, but it is not foolproof. Is it worthwhile to go the extra mile to germinate seeds in containers and transplant healthy seedlings into the garden? This article will explore the pros and cons of both methods and offer tips to improve the probability of success.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Factors that affect seed germination include genetic, morphological, physiological, chemical, biological, and environmental factors. Not all seeds are created equal, and some plant species require special treatment. Seeds with hard seed coats require scarification for good germination. Most vegetables do not require scarification, but many flowers do. Pre-soaking can soften the seedcoat and enhance absorption, thereby improving germination and breaking dormancy. An example of a seed that needs to be pre-soaked is corn. Some seeds, such as leafy greens, require cold stratification to break dormancy. Other seeds will readily germinate without any special treatment. It is important to know the specific seed requirements of each plant. This information can be found on the seed packet or on educational and government-affiliated websites (enter site.edu or site.gov after the search criteria to obtain reliable research-based information).<\/p>\n\n\n\n All seeds have an optimal planting depth. A good rule of thumb for vegetable seeds is to plant them at a depth of \u00bc to \u00bd inch. Seeds planted too deeply can take a long time to germinate, will not be uniform, are generally weak and can result in a poor stand. Shallow seeds germinate quickly but are more susceptible to poor root systems and to drying and withering. Sowing seeds at an incorrect depth increases their susceptibility to frost burn, temperature fluctuations, and pests. After planting, seeds need to be watered well, but if a heavy or extended rainfall event occurs within several days of planting, the seeds may float.<\/p>\n\n\n Transplants may seem like a lot of effort to plant and maintain, but they are generally more robust and often yield better than plants started from direct seed. Spring transplants grown in a greenhouse or indoors can be planted in the garden after the last frost date and will grow and mature before the summer heat affects them. Healthy seedlings exhibit greater pest tolerance than seeds and can outcompete weeds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Adequate moisture is key to uniform germination and growth. Seedling trays can get wet and dry very quickly. Water well after planting. After the seeds have germinated, water the plants when the leaves start to droop (also known as flagging). Stop watering as soon as water starts running out of the bottom of the tray. The goal is for the soil to stay moist, but not saturated.<\/p>\n\n\n Some drawbacks of transplants are that they require temperate conditions with plenty of light. Grow lights and heaters can be used to create optimally controlled environments for plant growth. Light placement is very important. Light within 2-4 inches of the plant will produce sturdy, uniform plants, as the light is close and evenly distributed. Poor lighting or lights farther away will cause the plants to reach, making them lanky, leggy, and weak. The same effect is seen when growing in a sunny window. If trying to germinate and grow plants in a sunny windowsill, rotate them daily, so that each side gets the same amount of light. Another problem with indoor plants is hardening off. This can be corrected by using a fan at the 2 true leaf stage. When plants are around three inches tall, they are ready to transfer. Gradually move them outdoors to acclimate them. Start by moving them to a porch or protected area during the day and bringing them in at night. Progressively move them to direct sun and leave them out for longer periods over a few weeks. It is best to transplant when cloudy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Most vegetables are easy to transplant and do well once transplanted, but there are a few exceptions. Cucurbits and celery can be successfully transplanted with extra TLC. Other plants, such as carrots, corn, beans, and peas, are unsuitable for transplanting due to their growth habits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When deciding whether to direct seed or transplant, consider factors such as the size of the garden you want to plant and how many plants you will need. Also consider how much time and effort you want to put into gardening. When planting a small garden, it may be easier and more economical to purchase transplants. When purchasing seeds or transplants, always look for the healthiest plants and for resistant varieties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For additional information on transplanting, please see the following HGIC fact sheets:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Starting Seeds Indoors<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n FAQs About Starting Vegetable Seeds Indoors<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n Civil Rights Statement<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent Have you ever planted seeds in your garden and had them germinate slowly, unevenly, or not at all? What about when a heavy rain comes a few days after direct seeding and the seeds float? These incidents can be frustrating after all that time and effort you put into […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4032,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[70041,70314,70572,71749,905],"tags":[],"coauthors":[114925],"class_list":["post-2623","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-allendale","category-bamberg","category-barnwell","category-hampton","category-horticulture"],"fimg_url":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2623","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4032"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2623"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2623\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2623"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2623"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2623"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=2623"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}},{"id":2619,"date":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","date_gmt":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/?p=2619"},"modified":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T20:15:40","slug":"lend-a-helping-hand-to-bluebirds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/lend-a-helping-hand-to-bluebirds\/","title":{"rendered":"Lend a Helping Hand to Bluebirds"},"content":{"rendered":"\n With all the winter weather conditions of late, it is not too early to be thinking of spring! The Eastern Bluebird is one of South Carolina’s most colorful year-round feathered residents and is often referred to as a harbinger of spring. Early settlers called them the \u201cblue robin\u201d. These birds get their name from the male with its reddish or rust colored throat and chest, white underbelly and brilliant blue plumage on its back. The females are a grayish blue with a duller, rust-colored breast. Many birding enthusiasts admire bluebirds for their colorful appearance, gentle disposition, devotion to family, and soft, low-pitched call. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The Eastern Bluebird habitat consists of a mix of open pastures, fields and park-like meadows with scattered trees, open woodlands and forest edges with hollow tree cavities for nesting. Eastern bluebirds can also be found in urban areas with large open lawns, good nesting sites and abundant insect populations for food. Considered secondary cavity nesters, unable to excavate their own cavities, they seek out abandoned woodpecker cavities and other natural openings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n From the mid 1920\u2019s to the 1970\u2019s the Eastern Bluebird species began to decline due to a number of factors including loss of nesting sites attributed to increased urbanization, changing forestry and agricultural farming practices, competition for nesting cavities from introduced exotic species such as the European House Sparrow and European Starling and severe winter and spring ice storms in the Eastern U.S. Bluebird populations declined over 90% during this time and were listed as an endangered species in the 1970\u2019s. Eastern Bluebird populations have stabilized thanks to efforts by homeowners and conservation groups to provide nest boxes and improve habitat suitable for these birds to thrive. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Year-round residents in the low country of South Carolina, bluebirds\u2019 nesting season typically runs from February through September, with peak mating activity in April. Male bluebirds locate a suitable nesting site, establish a territory and sing to attract a female and warn other male bluebirds to stay away. Females build the nest, a neat, cup-shaped structure made of fine grass and pine straw. After mating, the female lays a total of 1 to 6 eggs and immediately begins incubation, which lasts about two weeks. Chicks usually remain in the nest for another two to three weeks before fledging. Bluebirds can raise two to three broods a year in South Carolina.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Bluebirds are primarily insectivores, feeding mainly on insects, which make up approximately 2\/3rds of their diets; the remainder consists of wild fruits and berries, especially during winter, when insects are less common. Listed in a 1915 USDA Farmers\u2019 Bulletin 630 titled, \u201cSome Common Birds Useful to the Farmer\u201d, <\/em>bluebirds are praised for the amount of harmful insects they consume, especially grasshoppers and caterpillars that damage crops. <\/em> <\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the biggest challenges the Eastern Bluebird faces today is finding suitable nesting sites. What can we do to help? Fortunately, bluebirds regularly use nest boxes provided by homeowners and landowners. Providing nest boxes can be a rewarding hobby for individuals, clubs, and classes. Nest boxes are usually erected in February, but due to multiple broods, they can be placed at any time of the year. Nest boxes are easy to build and maintain, and numerous plans and designs have proven successful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n When considering the construction of bluebird nest boxes, here are a few things to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n For more information on attracting Eastern Bluebirds to your property, contact your local county Extension agent. You can also view a copy of HGIC Factsheet HGIC 2908 Providing for Bluebirds:<\/em> Guidance for Bluebird Nest Box Establishment in South Carolina<\/em> or Eastern Bluebirds<\/em> from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System for additional information on bluebirds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/04\/Water-Picture.png\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n
\n
Available Resources<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/04\/Water-Pictures-1024x576.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nAnna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Anna-Sara-Pecan-Pic.png\")
(\ud83d\udcf7 Image Credit- Anna Sara Hill)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nDawn Stuckey, Senior Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Grow-What-Matters-819x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rabbit-Project.png.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Laying-Flock-Project.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Heifer-Project.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Horse-Project.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Rogan Gibson, Extension Agronomy Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic2-1024x574.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/03\/Rogan-Pic-1024x473.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nFelicia C. Cunningham, 4-H Youth Development Agent, Jasper County<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture2-FC.jpg\")
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<\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n\n
Anna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic-1024x768.jpeg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nAnna Sara Hill, Extension Horticulture Agent<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic3.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Anna-Sara-Pic4-768x1024.jpeg\")
Zack Snipes, \u00a92020, Clemson Extension<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nMarion Barnes, Senior County Extension Agent Clemson University<\/h2>\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Bluebird-photo-1.pdf.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/image000000.pdf-768x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture3-FC.jpg\")
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/blogs.clemson.edu\/savannahvalley\/files\/2026\/02\/Picture1-FC.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n