The Cynodon spp. collection maintained by United States Department of Agriculture National Plant Germplasm System (USDA-NPGS) has limited information on nutritive value (NV) traits. In this study, crude protein (CP), phosphorous concentration (P), in vitro digestible organic matter (IVDOM), and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) were determined to (i) estimate genetic parameters for NV, (ii) obtain genetic values for the whole population across two harvests, (iii) estimate genotype by harvest interaction (GHI) for NV traits, and (iv) select accessions exhibiting improved NV traits compared to ‘Tifton 85′. The experiment was setup as a row-column design with two replicates and augmented representation of controls: Tifton 85, ‘Jiggs’, and ‘Coastal’. The whole-population was harvested twice, and data were analyzed using linear mixed models with repeated measures. In addition, a selected population of 15 genotypes were evaluated across 11 harvests to determine the extent of GHI. Genetic parameters revealed the presence of significant genetic variability, indicating potential improvements for NV through breeding. Specifically, P and IVDOM presented large variation, while NDF had lower diversity but some accessions exhibited lower NDF than Tifton 85. Low GHI, except for IVDOM, indicated genotypic stability and potential for selecting improved accessions under fewer harvests. Breeding line 240, PI-316510, and PI-3166536 presented superior NV than Tifton 85.

The onboarding needs of Extension agents is a topic continuously discussed and researched, yet overwhelmed agents persist, suggesting that there is still a missing link. We undertook a study to determine the competency training needs of newly hired agricultural agents in Florida. Two assessments were performed. First, we asked University of Florida’s County Extension agents and Directors in Agriculture, Horticulture and Natural Resources to identify main agriculture skills and competencies for new Extension. Second, we then classified those competencies into main domains and asked the same cohort to rank the competencies within each domain, in order of most important to least important. Data were collected via an online surveys, with 65% and 51% response rates, respectively. Agents needed training in specific agricultural competencies related to every-day work activities such as soil sampling, diagnostic skills, educational resource utilization, and relationship building. Although we assume that, based on job requirements, newly hired agents will enter Extension with such knowledge, results suggest an agriculture specific training is needed to meet the onboarding needs of new agents. Our study identified the priority needs for developing an onboarding program that establishes a level of standard knowledge. Those findings will serve to enhance onboarding training for new Extension professionals.

This 10-page document discusses bahiagrass forage cultivars, forage production, nutritive value, animal performance, planting, pasture renovation, management, and more. Written by Marcelo Wallau, Joao Vendramini, José Dubeux, and Ann Blount, and published by the UF/IFAS Agronomy Department, revised July 2019. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ag342 Original version: Newman, Yoana, Joao Vendramini, and Ann Blount. 2010. “Bahiagrass (Paspalum Notatum): Overview and Management”. EDIS 2010 (4). https://journals.flvc.org/edis/article/view/118607.