Growing up on the farm meant no time for boredom
From building straw tunnels to diving into the farm pond, Judith Sutherland refelcts on her rural childhood where summer meant a mix of hard work and ultimate freedom. Unlike "townie" friends who faced afternoon boredom, farm life ensured there was never a single precious moment wasted.
Guebert: There are no rules for little brothers
In this week's Farm and Food File, Alan Guebert shares a poignant reflection on the sudden passing of his younger brother, Perry. Following a final, lighthearted text exchange about Navy life, the loss of a sibling throws a long-standing family dynamic completely out of balance.
Evaluating your heat stress mitigation plan should include your nutrition program
Did your dairy cows suffer during the recent heat wave? Beyond fans and soakers, nutritional strategies—including yeast products, minerals, niacin and adjusting feed delivery times—can help alleviate heat stress, sustain milk production and reduce herd inflammation, according to Ohio State Extension's Jason Hartschuh.
Why true conservation needs to start in our own backyards
While parks protect wild spaces, they can give the false impression that nature only belongs there. Stark Soil and Water Conservation District's Todd A. Clark shares a nostalgic look at shifting natural baselines and explains why small-scale conservation at home is vital for inspiring the next generation.
World Cup tourists are obsessed with American ranch dressing
The 2026 World Cup is bringing global visitors to the U.S., and social media is buzzing with their love for American culture. From the scale of our scenery to an unexpected obsession with ranch dressing that has the TSA on high alert, Kymberly Foster Seabolt highlights the fun.
Shade and water: A cow’s best friends
High summer temperatures and heat indexes over 100 degrees put livestock at risk. Ohio State University Extension Educator Catelyn Turner shares practical tips on utilizing shade and managing water sources to reduce cattle heat stress, protect weight gains, and maintain reproductive health.
Ohio releases 2026 sandhill crane count results
Volunteer observers reported 344 sandhill cranes in Ohio during the 2026 Midwest Crane Count, below last year's count and the three-year average.
Sweeping history: The art of early American splint brooms
Before modern stores, early Ohio settlers had to make their own household tools. Learn the laborious process of crafting splint brooms from a single hickory stick—an extraordinary early American craft that commands thousands of dollars at antique auctions today.
Friend or farm foe? Balancing groundhog benefits and damage
Whether you call them groundhogs, woodchucks or whistle-pigs, these critters have a mixed reputation. While their burrows threaten farm pastures and foundations, they also aerate soil and create wildlife habitats. Retired wildlife officer Jim Abrams weighs the pros and cons.
Earned wisdom: Learning when it is time to let go
Life is full of challenging situations, but finding peace requires surrendering our illusions of control. From laughing at life's craziness to retreating to the barn for a dose of fresh perspective, explore these heartfelt reflections on learning how to travel light.
