In this episode of Research in Perspective, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with Renan Pedro Becker, Master's student at the University of Florida studying the management of Bahia grass. This conversation focuses on the importance of canopy management to enhance tiller production. Becker explains how allowing sunlight to reach the base of the canopy is essential for the growth of new shoots and leaves, emphasizing the role of rhizomes in this process.

In this episode of Research in Perspective, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with Dr. Nicolas Caram, a recent PhD graduate from our Agronomy Department. The conversation is about the balance of legumes and grasses in pasture systems. They delve into the productive, environmental and economic impacts of legume integration, exploring how different proportions of legumes in pasture can affect animal performance and pasture productivity. Nico shares insights from his research on the importance of legumes in grass-based pastures and discusses the challenges and benefits of establishing perennial peanut.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Jim Malooley, director for Agrivoltaic Operations at Silicon Ranch, and Bill Johnson, 7th generation farmer, now at Silicon Ranch. This interview was part of the 4th Small Ruminant Short Course hosted at the University of Florida in 2025, and was recorded live during that event. Dr. Wallau and his guests explore the concepts of agrivoltaics, where we merge agricultural and energy production to improve land use efficiency. In the discussion panel, Jim and Bill address the benefits and shortcomings using sheep for grazing under the solar panels, and offer practical recommendations those interested in venturing in those partnerships.

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Marcelo Wallau speaks with entomologists Dr. Norman Leppla and graduate researcher William Piwowarek about the reemergence of mole crickets in Florida’s pastures. The conversation digs into the pest’s South American origins, the history of insecticide and biological control efforts, and how sustainable management practices can prevent infestations. Wilhelm shares his ongoing fieldwork and surveys across the state to understand why some farms are seeing renewed problems while others aren’t. To contribute to his research, fill out the following survey: https://s.surveyplanet.com/mz9kb8jd

In this first episode of Our Research in Perspective, Dr. Marcelo Wallau speaks with Dr. Hannah Rush —agronomist and agroecologist researcher in sustainable cropping with the University of Minnesota— to discuss her research on sustainable cropping practices. Their conversation explores strategies for establishing cool-season forages, the value of species diversity in forage systems, and practical approaches to nitrogen fertilization and legume integration. Together, they highlight how functional diversity and thoughtful management can boost overall forage performance and discuss the aspects to consider when putting together forage mixes.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Marcelo Wallau brings Marshall Sewell, founder of Mind your Melon, an organization dedicated to addressing mental health stigmas in agriculture. Together, they explore the unique stressors faced by farmers that stem from generational and current economic pressures. Marshall shares his personal story of loss and the founding of the Mind Your Melon Foundation, which aims to raise awareness and provide resources for mental health in the agricultural community. The conversation emphasizes the need for introspection and proactive approaches to mental wellbeing.

Resources: https://mindyourmelon.org/Mind your Melon podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VhSquap7tq2N0hOg69POV?si=16f4641a6bdb4be6

In this episode of Cow Talks, host Dr. Marcelo Wallau and Dr. Shelby Gruss discuss nitrate toxicity and prussic acid poisoning in livestock, particularly in relation to forage production. They explore the causes and management strategies for these two distinct problems. The conversation highlights the significance of educating producers about these issues to ensure the safety and health of livestock.

In this episode of Cow Talks, Dr. Brett Bultmeier, director of the University of Florida / IFAS Pesticide Information Office, discusses significant changes in pesticide licensing, and some new regulations that are coming up. The discussion explores the transition to new testing procedures, the implications of new labeling requirements, and the expected impact on farmers. The conversation also highlights the importance of keeping up with regulatory changes within federal agencies like the EPA and the future of training materials in the field of pesticide safety.

For more information, visit https://pested.ifas.ufl.edu/