Agriculture

 The U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed a spotted wing Drosophila fly was found in south central Kentucky. Originally from Asia, this particular fruit fly species can be destructive to softer skinned fruit. The fly was captured in a University of Kentucky Integrated Pest Management trap in a peach orchard.

 “For years to come, this is going to be a major production issue for raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes and strawberries,” said Ric Bessin, extension entomologist with the UK College of Agriculture.

 Farm accidents are often preventable. With the fall harvest underway, let’s be careful and prevent accidents and tragedies from happening. Consider the following safety tips.

• Be sure all workers are trained and physically capable of operating equipment and understand the safety procedures. Take time to talk to workers about safety.

• Long working hours can lead to fatigue and stress, making you less alert to potential safety hazards. Take some breaks when operating equipment for an extended period of time.

 The Gardener’s Toolbox Series, sponsored by Hardin County Extension Service, 201 Peterson Dr., Elizabethtown, will offer several classes this fall.

• The class, Making a Mosaic Pot, will be 6 p.m. Oct. 10-17. You will decorate an 8-inch terracotta pot and saucer with mosaic tiles in the first class. The next class is about grouting. All supplies are included. Cost is $25; class limited to 20. The deadline to register is Sept. 27.

• The class, How to Grow Garlic, will be Oct. 24. Cost is $5.

 R & K Final Answer 561 won reserve intermediate champion bull at the 2012 Tennessee State Fair Roll of Victory (ROV) Angus Show, Sept. 9 in Nashville, Tenn. Kelly Flanders of Buffalo owns the winning bull.