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slaframine or black patch #889572

Asked November 08, 2024, 10:20 PM EST

My horses are suffering from slobbers. I only know this is most common from clover during damp months. But it’s been really dry and they’re still drooling from slaframine or black patch. I understand I can request an ag agent to come to my pasture to help me come up with a plan.

Charles County Maryland

Expert Response

Greetings, 
My horses are suffering from the slobbers. Our pasture has clover, and the horses are having a reaction to the slaframine or black patch. I’m told I need to Contact my local NRCS office, Ag Office, or extension agent in my county. I’m told they have pasture management specialists who can help at no cost. 
I know everything I read states that the slobbers are not a danger to my horses, but one died last month from colic. We never knew he was sick. It’s been suggested that some horses who are already immunocompromised might be a higher risk for colic from dehydration after prolonged slobbers. 
Is there someone you can direct me to that can give me a plan to clear my pastures of this slaframine? We have clover, buttercups, dogbane, and other weeds, so we rotate between three 1.5 acre pastures every 5 days and mow about 2x per month when the weeds get tall. We have a lawnmower but no tractor. Tilling isn’t an option. I’ve read suggestions of Pasture pro weed killer, Tryclopyr, No till winter rye seeds, Grazon 2-4d, lime, or Nitrogen. I have beehives so I’d like to do something during the winter when the bees aren’t out foraging. 
I hope you can direct me to the right person.
The Question Asker Replied November 08, 2024, 10:38 PM EST
We recommend that you reach out directly to Extension Agents Erika Crowl or Amanda Grev, both equine specialists. If for some reason they can't assist with any particular queries or veterinary topics, they should know who to put you in touch with.

Miri

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