Good evening! Yes, I’m back – I hadn’t planned to be gone this long … Even when I’ve been out on vacation or sick leave, I’ve still tried to keep up with media reports. But, a couple weeks of opium meds kicked me totally off my game: Ten minutes in front of a computer screen made me so woozy I had to lie down for hours. It even took me another couple weeks to get the crap out of my system! Geesh! I don’t know why anyone would take that stuff on purpose! The good news is the new knee is doing well!

It’s Field Day season! Yep, that time of year when we get to visit locations and operations and learn from the experts what’s happening with weeds, insects, weather issues. Of course, there’s always the opportunity to visit with other farmers from near and far to share stories of crop conditions and who’s had the best year so far!!

On Wednesday, July 19, will be the Western Ag Research Station Field Day held at the “South Charleston” facility (state Route 41 south of Springfield). I haven’t gotten much information on this, yet, but in the past it’s been an all-day event, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with lunch; cost around $20. I’ve been there the past five years and I can tell ya, there’s always something to learn! If you’re interested in attending, contact Joe Davlin at [email protected] or call 937-462-8016

OSU Extension in Mercer County is planning a Hops Field Day for Thursday, July 20. The day will begin at 10 a.m. in the Fort Recovery High School Ag Room with a presentation by Brad Bergefurd from the OSU South Centers in Piketon where they have been researching hops for a number of years. After that, the group will travel to a hops yard for some in-field training. I hope to be getting more information soon and will keep you posted!

Not interested in farm-type field days, but still want to learn? How about an afternoon spent at the Chadwick Arboretum in Columbus? On Sunday, July 23, the Arboretum will hold its annual Open House from 1 to 4 p.m. at the site just north of the Ohio 4-H Center on Fred Taylor Drive, behind the Schottenstein Center.

Chadwick Arboretum volunteers and staff will provide tours of the site as well as tours of the enCore Solar House. There will be fishing experts to talk about the species of fish that are in the on-site catch-and-release pond and lead-free sinkers will be distributed. In addition, a basket weaver will demonstrate his crafts among the willows, pollinator and bee experts will be on site to talk about habitat and what you can do to protect desired species in your yard, and artists will be sketching and painting at various locations.

Franklin County Master Gardeners will answer your gardening questions, and there will also be root beer floats! Canoes will be available throughout the day. This free event is a restful way to spend a summer afternoon! Free parking will be adjacent to the site.

Our Master Gardeners are holding their Help Line on Mondays and Thursdays (10 a.m. to 1 p.m.) at the OSU Extension office in Sidney. Stop by or call with questions about your lawn or garden!

So, that’s some of the fun stuff coming up! Of course, county fair will be here before we know it, too! It never ends, does it?! I’ll do my best to keep you updated on upcoming OSU Extension events in the area and beyond! If you have any questions, please be sure to let me know. Thanks!