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.
What is this mystery wooden item?
We have a new item for Hazard a Guess this week, and its a twofer. Take a look and let us know what you think.
Screwworms eat flesh, screw-ups cost money
The flesh-eating New World screwworm has returned to the U.S. Southwest. While Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins blames the previous administration, critics point to early 2025 budget cuts made by the Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency that halted critical livestock monitoring.
Cover crops build resilience into Ohio farms
Don't let another dry season catch you unprepared. Carroll SWCD's Lindsay Short explains how combining no-till farming with late-summer cover crops after your wheat harvest can dramatically improve soil water retention, suppress weeds, and provide high-quality winter forage for livestock.
