Yearly Archives: 2026

Public outreach is vital for soil health. Eric Hange, Medina Soil and Water Conservation District manager, discusses the power of hands-on tools like rainfall simulators in teaching students about erosion, infiltration, and the critical role of microorganisms in the ground beneath our feet.

Under Secretary Brooke Rollins’ National Farm Security Plan, the USDA has inked a $300M deal with Palantir to launch "One Farmer, One File." While the initiative promises faster disaster payments and streamlined services, the partnership raises major concerns about data privacy and surveillance.

Churning butter was an arduous pioneer task that sparked a wave of American ingenuity. Antique expert Paul Locher explores the evolution of the churn—from simple wooden dashers and decorated pottery to rocking "cradles" and crank-powered models that transformed a chore into a science.

What started as a parking lot conversation has raised over $500,000 for charity. Don't miss the 2026 Pulling For A Cause fundraiser on June 6 in Carrollton, Ohio. Featuring heavy-duty tractor pulls, a live auction of premium tools and outdoor gear, and a landing by the AirBear emergency helicopter, it’s a family-friendly event that makes a real difference for local patients.

Hemp dogbane and milkweed look alike, and both are toxic to livestock. Ohio State University Extension’s Christine Gelley explains how to tell them apart, why they are dangerous in hay systems and the most effective mowing and herbicide strategies to keep your pastures safe and productive.

As Ohio and western Pennsylvania face record rainfall, farmers are tempted to push the limits. Ohio State University Extension’s Lee Beers breaks down the dangers of planting in wet soil—including compaction, clods and smeared furrows—while offering expert advice on herbicide and nitrogen strategies for a late start to the season.

To maximize baleage quality, aim for 45-55% moisture and wrap within two hours. Ohio State University Extension expert Jason Hartschuh shares tips on increasing bale density and new research on "sweet hay" preservation to help farmers manage harvest windows and improve forage bunk life.

As the "sands fall through the funnel of time," Jim Abrams shares poignant reflections on the dogs, gear, and mentors that shaped his life outdoors. Discover why a 50-year-old fly rod and the memory of a wet dog in the truck are worth more than any modern upgrade.

Kymberly Foster Seabolt pretends to be a "small purse girlie," but a trip to the ER exposed her secret. From clementines and gimbals to thrifted frames and literal rocks, see how a hospital security search turned her "hands-free" day into a high-stakes game of purse bingo.

The 2026 House Farm Bill shifts billions from food assistance to subsidies. Alan Guebert examines the disconnect between D.C. policy and agricultural reality, from the DOJ’s probe into Big Four meatpackers to the surge of Brazilian beef imports despite corruption concerns.