We're getting calls asking about oak itch mites. Will they be as bad this year as they were last year?

Knowledge for Life e-News          August 2016 It's county fair time in Johnson County. Our office has been busy all summer in preparation. It's also the culmination of the 4-H year. Come on out and see the sights and sounds. Our 4-H youth submit their projects for judging and you can see the results in the 4-H Green Building and the Livestock Arena. Plus, there's the carnival rides -- always a thrill. The Johnson County Fair truly is a week of family fun!

Gall Forming Insects Plague Oak Trees and Can Lead to Itch Mite Concerns We're getting calls asking if oak itch mites will be a big problem again this year. Our standard answer is, "It depends." Find out what causes this intense, chigger-like itching.

Summer is the Best Time to Plant, Move or Divide Iris Iris is one of the most popular perennials in the garden and easy to grow. Late July through mid August is the best time to plant, move or divide iris.

Tips for Maintaining Container Plants When Going on Vacation It's time for the family vacation. But what to do about the containers of blooming plants on the patio? We've got some tips to help your plant containers survive while you're away.

Get a Jump on September Lawn Care Even though the calendar says August it is not too early to start thinking about September lawn care. Early September is the ideal time to overseed a lawn. Like any successful project it helps to plan ahead. Following is information to get you started on the road to success.

Home Canning in the 21st Century Some things never change. But when it comes to canning, things have changed a lot! Before you dust off Grandma's old recipe book check out these new guidelines for canning in the 21st Century.

Found Money Who doesn't love found money? The Office of the Kansas State Treasurer acquires millions of dollars in unclaimed money and property each year. Find out how you can do a search for unclaimed money and property for free.

Computer Basics Kansas City area residents who want to sharpen their computer skills can enroll in free classes at the Microsoft store at Oak Park Mall in Overland Park.

Wisconsin Bound Extension Director Dan Lekie has accepted a position with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and will be leaving Extension in late August and moving back “home” to Wisconsin.

Position Announcement: Johnson County Extension  Director Screening of applications will begin August 11, 2016, and continue until the position is filled. This position is available on or after October 17, 2016. For the complete position description click here.

Events

August 1 - 6 Johnson County Fair Find out what events are scheduled for this year's fair and view a map to the fairgrounds here.

Aug. 21 Touch-A-Truck Kids of all ages can sit, stand and get behind the wheels of over 40 giant trucks and large vehicles at the 2016 Touch-A-Truck. Entry is free with a minimum donation of a new, unwrapped toy or monetary offering for Toys for Tots.

Aug. 25, 26 & 27 BarnFest 2016 Kansas Barn Alliance will be hosting “BarnFest ‘16” at “The Barn at Kill Creek Farm” in De Soto, KS. Barn owners and supporters are encouraged to attend and learn about methods of barn maintenance and restoration. Registration details here.

Aug. 29, 30 & 31 Farm Progress Tour Don’t forget about the Farm Progress Tour. Registration was due the end of July, but there may still be room. To learn more click here.

Classes & Events To register online click on the class link or call 913-715-7000. July - December Computer Basics August Aug. 1 - 9 Johnson County Fair Aug. 16    Waterbath Canning for Beginners Aug. 17    Intro to Jams and Jellies Aug. 18    Pressure Canning for Beginners Aug. 21    Touch A Truck Aug. 25, 26 & 27 BarnFest 2016 Aug. 29, 30 & 31 Farm Progress Tour September Sept. 7   10 Signs of Alzheimer's September 12-16 Upholstery Workshop Sept 29.  Where Have You Bin? Hangin' at the Bins!

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