Yearly Archives: 2026
West Virginia confirms HPAI in two more backyard flocks
The West Virginia Department of Agriculture confirmed two cases of H5N1 bird flu in flocks in Monangalia and Greenbrier counties last week. These two cases plus another in December make three positive cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza in West Virginia in 45 days.
Pennsylvania no-till pioneer named Leopold Conservation Award winner
From the 1980s farm crisis to global agricultural mentoring, Jim Hershey’s journey to the $10,000 Leopold Conservation Award is one of innovation. Discover how his Lancaster County farm uses no-till, cover crops and buffers to lead Pennsylvania in regenerative agriculture.
Raising future adults means bringing back the lost art of manners
Parenting isn't just about meeting needs; it’s about raising future adults, according to columnist Kymberly Foster Seabolt.
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.
Author to discuss the Great Black Swamp at Black Swamp Conservancy
Black Swamp Conservancy and Gathering Volumes will welcome author Patrick Wensink on Feb. 7 from 1-3 p.m. at Glass City Pavilion, 1001 Front St. in Toledo.
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.
Brandly inducted into Ohio Auctioneer’s Hall of Fame
Also at the Ohio Auctioneers Association conference, James Yoder, of Kaufman Realty & Auctions, was crowned the 2026 Ohio Auctioneers Senior Division Champion. Jake Adelman, of RES Auction Services, was crowned the Junior Division Champion.
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.
