Following are some facts where Pettis County ranks within Missouri's 114 counties. Here are the results and highlights of some of the agriculture extension programs in 2000. A proper soil fertility program is both an economic and environment necessity for farmers. The testing programs provided through the present University Extension testing laboratories are assisting those farmers needs. Farming methods are changing for both crop and livestock farmers increasing the needs for testing services including those involving soil fertility.
Many questions confront farmers and homeowners about plant food management.
Hundreds of tons of animal manures are becoming available due to the increased recent growth of hogs and poultry in the area. Testing services were completed for 364 farmers and homeowners in Pettis County in 2000. Soil fertility information is provided throughout the year in other forms such as meetings, tours, and on the farm contacts. New technology and chemicals for pest control continue to change in the markets. In addition to products available, herbicides and fungicides continue to be reclassified from the general use to a restricted use.