Hedging your bets: The vital role of native windbreaks and buffers
From the flooded Midwest to the battlefields of Normandy, hedgerows play a vital role. Portage SWCD's Lynn Vogel explains how these "edgy" conservation practices reduce runoff and support pollinators. Learn why choosing native species is key to protecting Ohio’s soil, water and wildlife habitat.
How to select cows for better feed efficiency and lower costs
Feed accounts for 65% of cow maintenance costs. OSU Extension expert John Yost explores how mature cow size impacts stocking rates and profit. Learn how to use genetic tools and on-farm evaluations to select for feed efficiency and reduce production expenses.
Drowning worms, coaxing cats and catching memories
Relive the magic of summer nights with outdoors columnist Jim Abrams and discover Ohio’s top spots for channel, blue, and flathead catfish. He shares expert tips for night fishing success and record cats.
How to protect spring calves from disease in muddy conditions
Spring calving in mud increases the risk of scours, navel ill and coccidiosis. Ohio State University Extension's Dan Lima talk about why colostrum is king and how to protect your calves from environmental pathogens.
Building character — one awful farm chore at a time
From scrubbing pipelines to bucket-breaking rodeo calves, farm chores were never just work. They were character building, at least that's what columnist Judith Sutherland's dad said.
The secret to tree survival:Why tree tubes are worth the cost
How do you keep deer from destroying your trees? From repellents to motion sensors, options vary—but tree tubes offer the highest survival rates. While initial prices range from $3 to $6, they pay for themselves by boosting survival rates from 50% to nearly 100%. Protect your investment from deer, drought and maintenance stress with expert tips from Ohio’s 2024 Tree Farm of the Year.
Checking a major ‘bucket’ off the list
Can playing with Barbie dolls lead to a career? Kymberly Foster Seabolt explores how childhood "puttering" paved the way for her latest obsession: operating the big tractor. Learn why moving a yard of mulch with a bucket is the ultimate adult milestone and how she finally crossed it off her "bucket list."
Guebert: Worse and more of it
The Trump administration’s USDA reorganization and USAID cuts bring chaos to American farming. From soybean board snubs to global aid losses, Alan Guebert says it’s only getting worse.
Is your heat abatement actually working? Join OSU’s 2026 dairy study
Ohio State researchers share 2025 data on dairy heat stress and invite farms to a 2026 study. See why fans alone might not prevent the "summer slump."
The hypnotic effect of campfires and hot dogs
Relive the magic of fireside memories. From childhood fishing trips to backyard camps, explore why a simple roasted hot dog is the ultimate storyteller.
