A "stocking rate" reflects how many animals a designated area of acreage will support. The unpredictability of precipitation causes difficulty for Great Plains ranchers to estimate this rate. Scientists developed a new computer model to assist by extrapolating National Weather Service seasonal weather predictions. A revised computer model tests various scenarios for forage  yields and the weight gains of livestock under varied weather conditions. Ranchers are able to better estimate if precipitation will likely be above or below normal for a given season.This model will also determine the effects of increased carbon dioxide and higher temperatures on pasture forage. In closing, Duck Season opened last weekend and Luke Guarisco, was awarded “Best Duck Caller” for the fifth year in a row, receiving accolades from hunters but not the ducks. Geese fly in a "V" formation, providing the flock with 71% greater flying range than if each was on its own. Flying out of formation causes resistance drag as geese will return to take advantage of the lifting power from the bird in front of it. When the lead goose tires, it rotates back and another goose assumes the point position. Just like Luke, geese in the rear honk to encourage those ahead to hold their speed. If a goose gets sick or wounded, two geese leave the formation to lend help and remain with the injured goose until death or flying again.