Beech Tree News Network

The E. coli outbreak that has sickened dozens in Kentucky and may be linked to ground beef has expanded to 10 states, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced Tuesday.

The outbreak strain of E. coli O103 has infected 156 people in 10 states, including 65 people in Kentucky, according to the CDC. 

FRANKFORT, Ky. – Oaks are the most important tree species to wildlife in Kentucky forests, but the impact of this year’s drought remains to be seen. White oaks are faring better than red oaks so far.

White oaks produce acorns that are a critical food source for squirrels, white-tailed deer, wild turkey, black bear and many non-game species. White oak acorns are preferred by wildlife because they are more palatable. Acorns produced by red oaks contain tannin, which makes them bitter.

Lexington, KY, July 17, 2012 —As serious drought conditions continue to creep across nearly two-thirds of the lower 48 states, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials are fanning out to rural communities across the country to show support to farmers and ranchers affected by a string of extreme weather in 2012. Today, Under Secretary for Farm and Foreign Agricultural Services Michael Scuse begins a tour of Michigan, Ohio and Indiana—three states affected by severe frost and freezes in the spring, with Indiana now experiencing increasing levels of drought.