Part four: The water game is different for Western farmers
Moving from Jeromesville, Ohio, to Utah changed Jordan Martin’s view on agriculture. From relying on mountain snowfall to managing strict water shares amidst urban sprawl and neighborhood scrutiny, this Ohio-born rancher opens up about the realities of western desert farming.
Babysitting the robot: Why my new vacuum isn’t ready for a coup
Columnist Kymberly Foster Seabolt shares her hilarious struggles with a new robot vacuum. From an immediate counter-diving incident to constantly getting stuck under the living room sofa, this "smart" tech requires far too much adult babysitting.
Summer manure application: How to protect your nutrients and neighbor relations
Summer manure application after wheat harvest is a great way to recycle nutrients, but it requires a plan. Ashland SWCD's Jane Houin talks about how pairing manure with cover crops protects water quality, stretches your fertilizer dollar and how proactive communication keeps neighbor relations strong.
Good luck with eating that cotton sandwich
While the Trump administration rolls out the "Great American Cotton Plan" to bail out a shrinking, synthetic-dominated cotton market, U.S. wheat farmers face historic droughts and crop abandonment with little federal support. A look at the paradox in modern American farm policy.
What does it really mean to ‘use nitrogen strategically’
Nitrogen is a major driver of grass growth, but timing is everything. Learn how to strategically apply fertilizer to maximize pasture productivity, determine the right application rates for your forage and avoid applying nitrogen when plants can't efficiently use it.
Tips for hiring better farm labor
Finding reliable farm help takes more than just looking for "someone with a pulse." Ohio State University Extension's Lee Beers shares essential tips for creating clear job descriptions, targeted recruiting, and professional management to attract and retain great employees.
The best fishing partners have a wagging tail —and a closed mouth
From learning when to keep his "beak shut" about secret honey holes to mastering the classic fish story, Jim Abrams reflects on a lifetime of angling. Discover why human partners often talk too much, and why a loyal dog makes the ultimate, trustworthy fishing companion.
Ohio pioneers made cheese to preserve milk without refrigeration
Without refrigeration, early Ohio Country farmers relied on traditional cheesemaking to extend their winter milk supply. Historian Paul Locher breaks down the step-by-step pioneer process of using rennet, straining whey and pressing hard cheeses to preserve dairy for months.
Celebrate dairy farmers all month long
In celebration of June Dairy Month, Dwight Roseler reflects on the 250-year history of American agriculture. From a humorous "city boy" definition of a cow to the deeply moving words of Frank Mann’s Farmers Creed, discover why we owe so much gratitude to our hardworking dairy farmers.
Part four: Ralph’s father proposes a compromise on the water battle
In the early 1900s, drought pushed Colorado ranchers to the brink of a violent water war. Drawing from Ralph Moody’s autobiographical book "Little Britches," this article explores how his father, Charlie, proposed a peaceful 80% compromise that saved both crops and lives on the range.
