The gift of self-reliance: childhood lessons from the family farm
Judith Sutherland discovered how childhood farm chores and a father’s "figure it out" attitude built lifelong problem-solving skills and the power of teamwork.
My personal food pyramid goes back to Little Egypt
Opinion writer Alan Guebert explores the controversy behind the USDA’s new "MyPyramid" guidelines. From farm-table traditions to industry conflicts, see why these dietary shifts are sparking debate.
Start the grazing year right: Tips for healthier pastures and better performance
Prepare for a successful grazing season by auditing soil health, frost seeding, and infrastructure now. Plan your 2026 pasture strategy to maximize forage.
The forgotten nutrient: Closing the gap in your calf feeding program
Maximize calf growth and rumen health by providing warm, free-choice water. Learn why water temperature and timing are vital for starter digestion and health.
Don’t let your grassed waterways become an afterthought
Grassed waterways are essential for erosion control, but they don't last forever, writes Medina SWCD's Eric Hange. Learn how to spot early warning signs and maintain your waterways to protect your soil and yields.
Help us identify Item No. 1299
Item No. 1299 is wooden with two long skinny arms, about 4-feet-long, rounded at the top, with another piece of wood that sits perpendicular across.
A rugged trip to the supermarket
Discover why hunting is a healthy, sustainable choice. Learn about the nutritional benefits of wild game, its low carbon footprint, and the physical rewards of the field.
Joy, agony and the surprises that keep us humble
From celebrating 90th birthdays to navigating a scary holiday emergency, Judith Sutherland reflects on the moments of vulnerability and triumph that define life.
New appliances and Murphy’s Law: A family’s kitchen adventure
When a 40-year-old stove dies on Christmas, a family discovers the high-tech (and slightly intimidating) world of modern stainless steel appliances.
Can someone please give rural America some love?
Despite strong election support, rural communities face deep cuts to SNAP, Medicaid and farm programs. Alan Guebert explores the real-world economic math of these losses.
