What a way to start off the New Year. After near record rainfall amounts in December we just endured a near record cold spell in January.

I hate to forecast bad news but it looks like the rest of the winter could be rough to, therefore continue to stay prepared. There are warm dry sunny days ahead; we just may need to brave some frost and ice before we see them. If you want to get out of the weather and learn something, the Adams County Extension Service will be hosting several upcoming programs for the public to participate in over the next few months.

At 6 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 21 at the extension office we will be hosting a wild hog and deer caping seminar. In recent years we have seen a spike in population numbers and heard growing concerns from landowners.

This seminar will be led by MSU biologist Bill Maily and State Alligator Program Coordinator Ricky Flynt. Topics covered will include history, biology, behavior, competition with other game species, control problems and issues, disease concerns, damage identification and legal versus illegal control methods.

Following the wild hog seminar local taxidermist Tucker Crisp will discuss and provide examples of how to properly cape deer for trophy mounts. These programs will be free of charge.

The Mississippi Master Cattle Producer Program is a comprehensive training offered by MSU that covers the major elements of beef cattle production.

This eight-session interactive course is specifically designed for cattle producers interested in learning more about improving their beef cattle production and marketing practices.

Beef cattle producers enrolled in this program will receive training in the following subject areas: beef cattle nutrition, forage systems, beef cattle reproduction, breeding and genetics, economics and marketing, herd health and handling, beef end product and Beef Quality Assurance. The program will take place over four evenings from 6 to 9 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday nights from at the extension office starting on Jan. 12 and concluding on Jan. 21.

Starting on Tuesday, Feb. 23 we will offer another Master Gardener course. This course runs from 1 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday until April 1.

Topics covered include basic botany, soil science, plant propagation, lawns, vegetables, invasive plants, weeds, entomology, diseases, fruits, vegetables, nuts and ornamentals. All lessons are taught by content area specialist from around the state.

Taking this course will allow you to become part of the Adams County Master Gardener Association which is the most active master gardener association in the state.

These programs are open to the general public throughout the Miss-Lou. For more information on any of these programs or to reserve a spot please contact the Adams County Extension Office at 601-445-8201.

David Carter is the director of the Adams County Extension Service. He can be reached at 601-445-8201.