MU Extension in Oregon County

10/22/2026

Halloween should be fun for every trick-or-treater. For children with alpha-gal syndrome, many traditional candies may contain ingredients that can trigger an allergic reaction. Offering vegan treats or nonfood items such as stickers, glow sticks and small toys can help make Halloween more inclusive for everyone.

Learn more about alpha-gal-friendly options and ways to support children with food allergies this Halloween: https://brnw.ch/21x6BmV

10/22/2026

Agricultural lenders play an important role in helping farm operations navigate changing markets, production costs and land values. Gain the latest economic insights and tools to better serve your agricultural clients at MU Extension's 2026 Agricultural Lenders Seminar series.

The series will cover farm profitability, lending risks, commodity markets, enterprise budgets, land values and cash rental rates, along with region-specific topics important to Missouri agriculture. Sessions will be offered at five locations across the state beginning in November.

Learn more and register: https://brnw.ch/21x6A5r

10/21/2026

👀 Do you see what we see? This copperhead blends in pretty nicely ... watch your step!

Snakes are very active this time of the year on trails and concrete paths trying to soak in the warmth from the ground late in the day. Use 🚧 caution 🚧 and be snake-aware while you are out enjoying the cooler weather.

Most snakes do not pose a threat, but Missouri is home to a few species of venomous snakes. Check the comments for a link to our Guide to Missouri's Snakes! 🐍

10/21/2026

10/21/2026

🎃 Did you know you can find jack-o-lanterns in the woods? They aren't the jack-o-lanterns that you carve, they are mushrooms!

These jack-o-lantern mushrooms form in showy orange clusters at the bases of trees. ‼ They are quite poisonous ‼ so just enjoy them for their looks and name in the spirit of the season.

Always be certain of your mushroom identification before consuming. For more information, consult A Guide to Missouri's Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms, linked in the comments! 👇

10/21/2026

Want to solidify your strategy to reach buyers this holiday season?

By attending the MU Extension Season’s Sellings webinar series, you’ll explore ways to:
✔Set goals for sales, customer engagement, and marketing
✔Develop messaging and pricing strategies for holiday buyers
✔Stay top-of-mind with customers and drive sales

The series begins Oct. 27 and includes follow-up resources in November and December, with a final recap webinar on Jan. 20.

Ready to make a plan? Snag your seat:
https://muext.us/seasonssellings



Organized by MU Extension - Agriculture and Environment Program specialists Mallory Rahe and TaylorAnn Washburn.

10/21/2026

Farming asks a lot of us—long days, unpredictable weather, and constant pressure. But running on empty isn't a badge of honor; it’s a safety hazard.

If you are noticing these 7 signs of burnout, it’s time to take a mental health break:
1️⃣ Trouble sleeping or waking up at odd hours
2️⃣ Dropping productivity and energy levels
3️⃣ Feeling easily irritated or short-tempered
4️⃣ Changes in your eating habits
5️⃣ Getting sick more frequently
6️⃣ Brain fog or difficulty focusing
7️⃣ Not feeling like your usual self

You don't have to carry life's burdens alone. Through the Show-Me Strong Farm Families program, MU Extension offers FREE, online, and entirely confidential telehealth counseling. Best of all, it's provided by a licensed professional who actually understands agriculture.

📞 Call to connect: 573-882-4677

10/20/2026

More flu vaccine myths are up for review.

We've already tackled some common misconceptions about flu vaccines. In this video, we're breaking down a new set of claims to help you separate fact from fiction and make informed health decisions.

Watch now to see which myths don't hold up to the facts and which ones do.

10/20/2026

Cranberry Orange Pear Jam

Enjoy the taste of the holidays all year with this Cranberry Orange Pear Jam. Perfect with baked brie, on toast or the main star of an appetizer, the Cranberry Orange Pear Jam packs each bite with a taste of flavors we love to enjoy around the holiday season.

https://www.ballmasonjars.com/blog?cid=cranberry-orange-pear-jam