Wisconsin has a history in hemp production that dates back to 1908 when farmers started growing the crop.  The state played a key role during World War II when hemp was being used for rope. Today, hemp is used in a variety of products but the key is growing a crop that meets market quality requirements.  Kiley Allan visits with UW-Madison Hemp Research Program Manager, Phillip Alberti.  Alberti says harvest is underway.  August is the peak time for fiber hemp and early stage of grain hemp.  Weather hasn't been a problem for the crop this year according to Alberti, but the humidity creates some lucrative challenges with insects.

A few showers this morning, otherwise a pretty pleasant Wednesday on the way.  Stu Muck says it's a dry week after that with moderate temps.

Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group joins Pam Jahnke to discuss a manure handling equipment auction that's coming up.  This is generally very unique and expensive equipment that buyers would have to locate in multiple locations.  Ashley Huhn says this auction brings it all to one spot.  Paid for by Steffes Group.

Lactococcus Lactis - it's not a dirty word!  It could, however, become the state microbe for Wisconsin if one state representative gets her way.  Ben Jarboe finds out why this microbe fits "America's Dairyland" from Senator Rachel Cabral-Guevara from the 19th district.  She says this microbe is used in nearly every dairy product made in the state, which makes it the perfect state microbe representative. This is the second straight session she has introduced the bill in.

Today’s farms run on advanced technology, face high financial risk, and operate under ever-changing policy landscapes. Yet even with all that, farmers still find time to serve their communities—whether it’s mentoring youth or volunteering at the county fair. That’s exactly the kind of well-rounded excellence the Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer Program seeks to recognize. Cindy Matton leads the program. She tells Stephanie Hoff about the program and why it was started.  She also explains the fairly simple application process for young farmers that want to apply.  Deadline is September 1!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.