MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

Sandhill cranes are known to reside in Wisconsin until they can no longer easily find their food. Scientists call the birds generalist omnivores. This means they eat grubs, insects, tubers, plants, small reptiles, rodents, and now the crops farmers have planted. Jackie Silvicke-Scott is the Private Lands Biologist with the International Crane Foundation. She tells us what farmers can do to prevent the cranes from making their fields a dining hall.

Jackie Silvicke-Scott from the International Crane Foundation tells Kiley Allan how a non-harmful, rhubarb-derived seed treatment effectively deters intelligent sandhill cranes from damaging corn crops. The Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update calls for a winter advisory in southern Wisconsin until noon today. Be careful on your morning commute! Stephanie Hoff visits with Jesse Wagner, a third-generation maple syrup producer from Inthewoods Sugarbush, to discuss the delicate "freeze-thaw" balance required for a perfect harvest. Jesse explains why snow in the woods is a producer's best friend and how he uses long-range forecasts to time his tapping in Manitowoc. The DeLong Company recently expanded its Port of Milwaukee facility with an 800,000-bushel capacity and technological upgrades, allowing vessels to reach markets in Europe faster than ever before, explains General Manager Doug Kloepping. Ben Jarboe admits most men are not Bobby Flay in the kitchen. That's why Christy Paplow presented at the most recent Wisconsin Custom Operators event about how to feed large farm crews during the busy season. She emphasizes the use of grilling, bulk shopping, and travel crockpots to maintain efficiency. And guys, you can do it, too!

As traditional pesticides lose their effectiveness due to regulatory changes and increasing pest resistance, growers are searching for a new way forward. GreenLight Biosciences’ Jonathan Adamson tells Stephanie Hoff that RNA technology can control the pests that potato growers and other specialty crop farmers deal with regularly. Using RNA-based foliar pesticides, Greenlight Biosciences' products "send the wrong message" to invasive pests. In turn, these pests, like the Colorado potato beetle, will starve themselves.

Stephanie Hoff visits with Jesse Wagner, a third-generation maple syrup producer from Inthewoods Sugarbush, to discuss the delicate "freeze-thaw" balance required for a perfect harvest. Jesse explains why snow in the woods is a producer's best friend and how he uses long-range forecasts to time his tapping in Manitowoc.

So you're happy to see your business in a rural community expanding, BUT, where will your new employees live?  For many rural communities it's not just about the cost or quality, it's about availability at all.  Stephanie Hoff finds out about how some communities are approaching the challenge.  John W. Miller, president and CEO, Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. says they're rethinking rural housing.  Miller says  Wisconsin is facing significant demographic shifts and a labor shortage that hits rural areas particularly hard. Workforce development fails without a three-legged stool: a willing business, a trained employee, and a place for that employee to live. Affordable housing is identified as the single biggest hurdle to attracting and retaining residents in rural Wisconsin. Private developers struggle to get commercial loans for small-scale, low-margin projects, making state support a necessary vessel. Communities have a strong emotional attachment to old schools, banks, and libraries, making them prime targets for redevelopment and a source of pride for the town. WEDC promotes "second-story housing" to keep downtowns vital and businesses supported by nearby foot traffic. Building downtown is often more efficient because the water, sewer, and road systems are already in place, but older buildings often have "hidden surprises" and code compliance issues that make them more expensive to renovate than building new. WEDC grants provide that final push to get the projects moving. Moving seniors into smaller, accessible downtown dwellings frees up larger family homes for the incoming workforce. Winter weather advisories are back in our forecast.  Stu Muck says there is a good chance we'll see an accumulation of snow by the time we get midway through the weekend. The third annual "Wisconsin Best Burger" contest is underway.  Tammy Vaassen, executive director of the WI Beef Council tells Pam Jahnke that she's already been fielding calls from people ready to offer up their favorites.  Meanwhile her staff's organizing 4 regional direct marketing workshops for producers that want to work directly with consumers.  All of the details on both events are found at beeftips.com.  Paid for by Equity Cooperative Livestock. A Wisconsin farm equipment manufacturer is sharing mini versions of their real thing.  Troy Meyer, from Meyer Manufacturing, said they started making toy versions of their livestock equipment in 3-D printing.  Now they've moved to die-cast and he explains why they did it. Friday is the next USDA milk production report and the market is ready for some big numbers.  Cody Koster, dairy analyst with EverAg, joins Pam Jahnke to discuss.  While there's been a little uptick in cheese prices, it's been largely driven by this week's global dairy trade.  Koster says with the USDA report slated to be released on Friday after the close, Monday's open could be bloody red.  

Consumer demand for protein continues to fuel a lot of agricultural markets.  From beef to dairy - more protein is popping up on all kinds of labels.  That's carried over to the bison industry too.  Jill Welke finds out about how growers are dealing with the demand, and the lack of a skilled workforce to help harvest the animals.  Lee Graese from Northstar Bison in Haugen, WI shares his challenges. Rain gauges are back in action across Wisconsin this morning, with some lightning along for the entertainment.  Stu Muck says those showers won't stick around though.  Sunshines back on the way later this morning. Improving weather has farmers starting to move some of their equipment around in the shed and yard.  Maybe you've decided it's time to replace a piece or let go of something.  Steffes Group Auction is helping move those pieces with consignment auctions all across the U.S. and Canada.  Ashley Huhn tells Pam Jahnke that their ability to collect information piece by piece and feature it in their sales has led to great interest and super prices.  Paid for by Steffes Group. The Wisconsin FFA Alumni is heading to Middleton for its annual convention Friday and Saturday.  Pam Jahnke highlights some of the auction items that will be presented, all  created by the state FFA officers. Been there - done that.  It's a phrase that applies to Wisconsin's ginseng industry.  Will Hsu, president, Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises and Hsu Ginseng Farms, Wausau tells Stephanie Hoff about the market devastation the industry faced during the first Trump administration.  Now, with more tariffs back in play, Wisconsin's ginseng industry has become a little brittle.  He says they've turned to elements like agrotourism to try and fill the gaps they're missing in global trade.

While drones are becoming a common sight over our fields, insuring these 'small aircraft' is a whole different ball game than your standard farm policy. From weight limits to chemical drift, Stephanie Hoff sits down with Eric Greening at Family Insurance Center to break down the risks and regulations of an agricultural drone. He says drones are very new in the insurance world, as spray drones have only been around for the last five years or so commercially. Insurance companies are looking at how much risk they want to insure.

As commodity markets shift, many growers are looking beyond the standard corn and bean rotation to find new value in their land. Jeff Wienkes, regional sales manager with LaCrosse Seed, tells Stephanie Hoff how cover crops are evolving from simple 'soil savers' into strategic financial tools for grazing and soil health. The interview explores the shift toward targeted seed mixes and how grazing covers can provide a much-needed 'double win' for your bottom line.

The soybean industry has been subject to a lot of obstacles over the last year with tariffs, South America, and policy, but there are some good things coming. Scott Metzger, the President of the American Soybean Association, shares some of the biggest worries they have on Capitol Hill, and why farmers should be optimistic with lots of new crush plants coming online.

The DeLong Company recently expanded with an 800,000-bushel capacity and technological upgrades, allowing vessels to reach markets in Europe faster than ever before. General Manager Doug Kloepping tells Stephanie Hoff that increasing maritime efficiency is a rising tide for the local economy.

A tool that dairy farmers have relied on for decades is changing. At the Professional Dairy Producers Business Conference, March 4-5 in Madison, Tom Zwald is going to talk about how to navigate a major industry shift -- the disappearance of BMR corn. BMR corn, or brown midrib corn, is a variety of corn for silage. Tom tells Stephanie Hoff that his family farm, Bomaz Farms in Hammond, has found high-quality alternatives that don’t sacrifice milk production. This boots-on-the-ground experience sharing is one of the reasons Tom has attended the PDP Business Conference since he was a college student.

The humble potato is getting a makeover as culinary experts work to move the vegetable from a simple side dish to the center of the plate.  At the "Spud Lab" in Denver, RJ Harvey, Culinary Director for Potatoes USA, is leading a movement to transform how major food brands, universities, and even the medical community view the potato. He tells Stephanie Hoff that the Spud Lab has identified key functional benefits of potatoes that go beyond flavor. In baked goods, potatoes are proven to improve moisture retention and shelf life, while in savory applications, they serve as "allergen solves." For example, potatoes provide creaminess without dairy or thicken soups without flour (gluten). More above normal temps on the way today, bringing with it a few showers.  Stu Muck says that will help draw out any frost that may remain in some soils across the state. A junior from Waunakee High School has become the 2026 WI FFA Auctioneer Champion.  Junie Kierce won this year’s competition and started well in advance preparing.  Kierce tells Ben Jarboe that her activity in public speaking helped out, but that the mentorship from an actual auctioneer was key.  Kierce was paired with Jenny Gehl, a professional auctioneer from SE Wisconsin.  Some of the challenge areas for Kierce were the actual items she had to sell.  She says not knowing what something was used for could've been a big obstacle if it weren't for the support and knowledge of other auctioneers.  Now with the win, she earned the opportunity to attend auctioneering school or compete at the International Junior Auctioneers Championship. A 3-day weekend didn't improve the attitude of traders apparently.  John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend joins Pam Jahnke for an update.  One area that he's monitoring is the run up in soybean oil.  From food to fuel, that commodity is finding many avenues of use.

With low commodity prices and constricted global markets, farmers are under a lot of stress.  John Shutske, Professor and Extension Specialist: Safety Engineering & Agricultural Health, UW-Madison says it's important to remember your mental health resources.  He tells Kiley Allan that high levels of stress are being driven by chaotic trade policies and market unknowns, compounded by a "work harder" agricultural stigma that often prevents people from seeking help.  Waking up in the early morning with racing thoughts is the primary red flag that professional medical intervention is needed. He explains that stress-induced cortisol affects the brain's frontal lobe, leading to poor communication and childish behavior, which can result in a vicious cycle of bad business decisions. Wisconsin could hit the 60's today - not what you'd expect on February 16th.  Stu Muck says this balmy, mild weather will be the story for most of the week. Farmers got an early Valentines present on Friday when Glenn "GT" Thompson announced the release of the 2026 Farm Bill.  He's got it on a fast track, with mark up scheduled for February 23rd.  Pam Jahnke visit with Perry Aasness, vice president of legislative affairs for Compeer Financial on what this version contains. Some of the highlights include "fixing" Proposition 12, addressing farm labor needs and programs supporting them, plus creating new partnerships that can help rural infrastructure including things like child care. Junie Kierce is the state champion of the 2nd annual WI Auctioneering challenge.  She says she only knew about auctioneering after watching shows like "Storage Wars".  Now, she's completed a mentorship with auctioneer, Jenny Gehl, and has become engaged in the profession. Wisconsin dairy farmers are bringing the farm to the classroom with the launch of the Care for the Land Escape Room, a digital, game-based learning experience for high school students. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Board member Gary Kohn joins Stephanie Hoff to discuss how this turnkey resource allows students to explore regional sustainability practices across four different Wisconsin farms. Launching Feb. 27, this interactive project uses modern technology to help the next generation connect with the science and heart behind local dairy production.

Stephanie Hoff and potato grower Andy Dierks from Coloma, discuss how Wisconsin potato growers are gaining a competitive edge through the Healthy Grown program, a research-based initiative that now grants automatic sustainability clearance for Walmart suppliers. The program helps with the transition from traditional pest management to modern regenerative practices. It also provides invaluable one-on-one support provided by University of Wisconsin specialists.

Stephanie Hoff and Randy Fleishauer of Plover River Farms in Stevens Point discuss why a processor "bailing out" creates a domino effect that impacts soil preparation, local agribusiness, and long-term farm viability. There are state-level protections and the DATCP Producer Security Council that serve as a final line of defense for the grower community.

Host Ben Jarboe has a chat with Davion Freeman about each of their recent trips to Florida which included big bass and ocean fish. They also debate about the best baits for spring fishing and talk about the upcoming Wisconsin Fishing Expo.

As the agricultural landscape shifts away from international reliance, the American soybean industry is undergoing a domestic pivot driven by the rise of renewable fuels. American Soybean Association Chief Economist Scott Gerlt tells Stephanie Hoff about the intersection of D.C. policy and local production. He tackles everything from stalled EPA blending levels to the science-based defense of seed oils against "MAHA."

In this episode, Mike Michalski from Migratory Bird Management explains to Stephanie Hoff how high-tech AVEX lasers provide a humane, non-lethal alternative to traditional bird deterrents like propane cannons or predator calls. He breaks down the unique biology of avian vision that allows these lasers to be perceived as physical threats, effectively clearing dairy barns, vineyards, and rooftops without harming the animals.

What do halal and kosher really mean? It's a practice focused on specific ethnicities and religious practices. Pam Jahnke sits down with Abdullah Hussaini, a commodity broker with Equity Cooperative and a lamb producer. He says as the ethnic makeup of the U.S. changes, these niche markets are exploding with opportunity for lamb if you know the calendar and how to grow it. The Love Shack might be the ice shanty for some folks this weekend - expect slush on the top of the ice with the warm, sunny temperatures, according to today's Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update with Stu Muck. Remember, no ice is 100% safe! The Archies say it best -- Oh, honey, honey! We take a peek inside the Old Farmer's Almanac and find out that honey can be a big help during cold and flu season. A hot toddy is the way to go! She thinks your tractor's sexy, but what if it drives itself? Ben Jarboe sits down with Brian Luck, an associate professor of Biological Systems Engineering at UW-Madison. Luck says he expects to see autonomous tractors in the fields in the next 5 years, and explains why the idea of more farmers using them is becoming more real. Is chicken, pork, or beef on the Valentine's dinner menu? Extension specialist and Professor Brenda Boetel says as beef and pork supplies tighten and prices climb, chicken is swooping in to fill the gap, thanks to its ability to scale production much faster than red meat. She also tells Kiley Allan that producers should keep a sharp eye on marketing strategies. In this volatile market, a positive margin is never a reason to fly on autopilot. All eyes are on the Winter Olympics... dairy will have its own version March 3-5. Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association Executive Director John Umhoefer previews the World Championship Cheese Contest with Stephanie Hoff!

John Umhoefer, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, discusses with Stephanie Hoff the upcoming World Championship Cheese Contest in Madison, a biennial event featuring over 3,300 entries from 25 countries. The competition relies on a highly specialized group of international judges and a "cold chain" volunteer effort to evaluate everything from traditional cheddars to exotic entries like Tibetan donkey cheese. Beyond the spectacle, the event serves as a major economic driver, where a single gold medal can secure a lifetime of orders for cheesemakers.

It's projected that nearly 18% of households in the U.S. have at least one individual using GLP1 drugs.  That's a trend that's expected to continue, and it has implications for production agriculture.  Consumers have cut consumption of many food items, and increased in others. Ben Jarboe finds out how food grade soybeans are handling the adjustments from Scott Sinner the VP of Supply Chain with SB&B foods. Sinner says right now things look bright, and they're hoping the sentiment grows! Sunshine back in the forecast today with above normal temps.  Stu Muck says that trend shouldn't change through the weekend. A coalition including agricultural groups gathered just off the square to discuss the price tag the state's been presented for SNAP, known as FoodShare in the state.  Stephanie Hoff reports from the Capitol.  Approximately 165 entities including the WI Cheesemakers Assn., state Potatoe & Vegetable Growers and WI Pork spoke up on the need for the program.  Aside from ensuring families have adequate access to fresh, nutritional food, the program provides certainty for Wisconsin farmers.  Rebecca Sweeney, senior director of programs and policy for the WI Cheesemakers Assn. says 8-10% of all FoodShare dollars spent in the state go toward dairy products.  She notes that even a 5% drop in grocery store sales would create financial pressure for farmers, food processors and agribusiness. Beef is one of the brighter elements of production agriculture today, but you can always learn something new.  Dr. Amy Radunz, animal nutritionist and past president of the WI Cattlemen's Association, says hearing from growers outside the state is helpful.  That's why they've invited Tucker Brown, a cattle producer and agriculture advocate from Texas, to share what works for him - and might work in Wisconsin. Too much milk.  We're hearing it from analysts, processors and industry leaders.  Despite the volume challenges, there's more to come!  Jenny Wackershauser, dairy analyst with EverAg in Platteville, says that "spring flush" is just around the corner with more milk cows having calves and coming back into full milk production.  Where's it going to go? What's it going to do to prices, and do you have risk management tools in place to protect your operation.  She joins Pam Jahnke with some strategies.

The small community of Blair, WI was rocked when a cheese plant that's been there for decades said it was changing.  Sarah Schmidt, communications coordinator for Associated Milk Producers Incorporated(AMPI) tells Jill Welke that the lure of the cottage cheese market became too much for their board of directors.  In March, some 86 employees will be laid off while they transition the award winning cheddar plant into a top notch cottage cheese manufacturer.  Schmidt says while some may question whether the cottage cheese phase has peaked, their numbers show it's just growing.  Those same employees will largely be welcomed back to the "new" plant when it reopens in 2027. More spring-like weather for Wisconsin today with possible 50's by the weekend.  That's the news that Stu Muck delivers. We've heard time and time again that with technology today, it's almost impossible for a human to be able to execute deals as quickly as a computer.  Same thing goes if you're involved in an auction.  Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group tells Pam Jahnke about their Price App and what it offers anyone who downloads it.  Huhn says by having this tool, you'll never miss a bid and be in the action as long as you want. The WI Ag Tourism Association has nominated 7 of its members from across the state for the Governor's Tourism Awards to be presented in March.  Pam Jahnke runs down the nominees. Wisconsin's wine making industry may seem to be in its infancy, but it's far more advanced than you think.  Take it from a California wine expert.  Kiley Allan introduces us to Zoran  Ljepovic, lecturer at UC Davis and a renowned wine maker.  He says while California wines cannot be directly applied to Wisconsin, there are some shared lessons. In Wisconsin's cool climate, a 10–20% loss of vines due to cold snaps is considered an expected cost of doing business, whereas a 3–5% loss in a region like Napa would be seen as a major crisis.  Ljepovic says he'd encouraged Wisconsin winemakers to move away from trying to replicate king varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon and instead embrace and market local, specialized cultivars (such as Marquette) that thrive in the region.  The wine expert also says beyond the technical challenges, he views wine as a historical and social art form intended to bring people together, noting that any wine, regardless of the grape, is worth enjoying if it is well-crafted.

Roughly 65% of U.S. farmers now have access to fewer dealerships than they did five years ago. For major brands like John Deere, over 80% of authorized locations are now part of large chains (owning 7+ stores).  That doesn't mean that they compromise on service of commitment to their communities. Johnson Tractor announced this week their acquisition of Farmers’ Implement, effective June 1.  This will expand Johnson Tractor’s presence and support for agricultural customers across the region. Through this transition, Farmers’ Implement customers will gain access to Johnson Tractor’s broader parts network, service resources, and technical expertise, while continuing to work with the local teams they know and trust. Pam Jahnke found out about the plan ahead with Eric Reuterskiold, CEO of Johnson Tractor.  He's been a part of the company for more than three decades, and has worked his way up the ranks.

Wisconsin dairy farmers are bringing the farm to the classroom with the launch of the Care for the Land Escape Room, a digital, game-based learning experience for high school students. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin Board member Gary Kohn joins Stephanie Hoff to discuss how this turnkey resource allows students to explore regional sustainability practices across four different Wisconsin farms. Launching Feb. 27, this interactive project uses modern technology to help the next generation connect with the science and heart behind local dairy production.

A broad coalition of agribusinesses and hunger relief groups today urged Wisconsin lawmakers to address an urgent need for $69.2 million in FoodShare funding, in the wake of federal changes to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which shifted 75 percent of administrative costs to states. Wisconsin must take action now before the end of the legislative session or face the potential for penalties of up to $205 million and put benefits at risk. FoodShare is a critical economic engine for Wisconsin’s food and agricultural sector. Each year, Wisconsin FoodShare participants redeem well over $1 billion in federally funded benefits at grocery retailers across the state. “FoodShare is more than nutrition assistance,” says Rebekah Sweeney, Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association Senior Director of Programs & Policy. “Hundreds of millions of federal FoodShare dollars are used to purchase Wisconsin-grown and Wisconsin-made foods each year, supporting farms, manufacturing businesses, and jobs in every part of our state. Providing stability for FoodShare provides stability for Wisconsin agriculture, as well.” With the final days of the legislative session rapidly approaching, timely action is critical to avoid compliance risks and ensure continuity of essential services for Wisconsin residents, she tells Stephanie Hoff in an interview.   Other agriculture organizations that support the funding request include Cooperative Network, Dairy Business Association, Wisconsin Pork Association, and Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association. Additionally, 165 organizations signed on to a letter to the Wisconsin State Legislature in support of the funding request.

For decades, dairy farmers have been the quiet leaders of sustainability, constantly fine-tuning their operations to be more efficient. But historically, that progress hasn't always translated into a line item on the balance sheet. Jennifer Block, director of value chain partnerships with Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, discusses EmPower+, a new, farmer-led initiative designed to turn on-farm data into real marketplace value. She tells Stephanie Hoff what’s happening in the market landscape today that has Edge focused on sustainability and carbon emissions across the whole supply chain.

There’s a massive wave of capital investment, nearly $11 billion, flowing into dairy processing plants from Kansas to New York. But what does this mean for the person actually milking the cows? Leonard Polzin, Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist with the UW-Madison Division of Extension, discusses with Stephanie Hoff where that money is going, why our surging cheese exports are acting as a floor rather than a fuel for milk prices, and what Class III producers should be asking their processors to navigate a volatile 2026.

Soybeans have been a hot topic over the last year with tariffs, South America, and China. Even though it has been grim one soybean industry has been able to avoid most of these issues. Scott Sinner, the Vice President of Supply Chain with SB&B Foods, shares how the food-grade soybean industry is actually doing pretty well. He says they have never sold their beans to China and the recent increase of GLP-1 use in the US is helping to boost them.

Wheels are turning to administer the USDA Farmer Bridge Assistance Program.  Pam Jahnke's joined by Sandy Chalmers, state executive director of USDA's Farm Service Agency offices.  Chalmers says the staff is working on generating pre-filled paperwork that should land in producers mailboxes by the end of February.  Growers will simply need to certify the information is correct, and return the paperwork.  The funds will be directly distributed to the farms account.  She's also asking dairy operators to get the new updates on the Dairy Margin Coverage Program.  Chalmers says there's been some updates through the Big Beautiful Bill that could help dairy's cover more of their production. Sunshine today - but plenty of wind too.  Stu Muck says the temperatures will continue to be above average, but today the wind chills will still be noticeable. Entrepreneurial spirit and inspiration helped a partnership in Westby launch a Wisconsin vodka brand, with a twist.  Ben Jarboe talks with Scott Kring, one of the partners behind Birch Point Distillery.  They leaned on their neighbors at Hidden Springs Creamery for advice and suggestions.  In the end, they decided to focus on producing vodka made from sheep milk whey.  It's a unique process that requires special handling.  Kring explains how a grant from the Dairy Business Innovation Association(DBIA) helped them acquire some of the equipment they needed to get rolling.  Now production has been so well received, they're pulling milk from another sheep dairy! If you struggle for unique Valentine's ideas - worry no more.  Wisconsin's cheesemakers are suggesting a cooperative cheese board might do the trick.  Pam Jahnke shares suggestions from Crave Brothers Cheese in Waterloo who collaborated with other Wisconsin cheesemakers for unique flavor combinations to satisfy any couple, at any level of the relationship stage. Markets on Wall Street and Chicago have been hit with erratic trading.  John Heinberg breaks down some of the fundamentals rocking the boat. It started with Trump asking China for more bean sales.  Is it happening?  With algorithms driving daily trade, farms need tools in place.  You're not as fast as a computer executing sales.

Each new year in farming brings new challenges to overcome, and Wyffels Hybrids works right alongside them to find solutions. Steve Quade, Regional Sales Manager for Northern IL and Southern WI at Wyffels Hybrids, tells Kiley Allan about the 16 new hybrids that will be coming to the Corn Belt for field evaluation this summer.

After high school, students have to make the difficult decision to continue their education or to enter the workforce. After considering their options, two students were drawn to the hands-on opportunities at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College. Avery Drew and Stacy Copenhaver are first-year students and studying precision agronomy at the school. They're taking advantage of the hands-on education opportunities that the test plot allows.

Even when times are particularly robust in farming, there's always an underlying level of stress. John Schutske is a Professor and Extension Specialist in Safety Engineering and Agricultural Health at UW-Madison. He sat down and told me what we're seeing right now when it comes to stress in ag communities.

What started as a social worker’s curiosity and a medicinal gift sent home to a grandmother in Taiwan blossomed into a global agricultural powerhouse. Stephanie Hoff visits with Will Hsu, president of Hsu’s Ginseng Enterprises, to uncover the incredible journey of the Hsu family. From his father’s "leap of faith" in 1974 to Will’s own transition from the corporate world back to the family soil in Wausau, explore the grit required to farm the world’s most demanding root. Will pulls back the curtain on the "whiplash" of global markets, the devastating Mother’s Day storm that nearly ended it all, and why Wisconsin remains the "Napa Valley" of ginseng.

Tariffs are something that we've heard talked about more and more, but what have they actually meant for U.S. agriculture? Steven Deller, a Professor of Agriculture and Applied Economics at UW-Madison, explains the effect tariffs have had on the agricultural economy.

60 years ago Wisconsin created the position of "Fairest of the Fairs".  Designed to be an ambassador for all fairs in the state, the program is thriving today.  Kiley Allan gets a chance to visit with the first "fairest" that started it all.  Connie McCallister, was Wisconsin's 1st Fairest of Fairs and says the format was much more relaxed than it is today.  She notes that the original competition mirrored the Miss America pageant, featuring swimsuit and formal wear segments.  The actual crowning took place on the grandstand stage of the WI State Fair!  McCallister says she lived on the fairgrounds during her term, presenting trophies to 4-H participants, appearing in daily parades, and opening nightly grandstand shows for famous entertainers.  After her time as Fairest, she worked briefly in Washington D.C. media before serving as a Lutheran minister for 41 years. McAllister emphasizes that while the competition has changed, the fair remains a vital "gift" that celebrates the hard work of 4-H youth and their animals. Warmer weather this week should help with outdoor chores according to Stu Muck. Post Super Bowl, our emphasis is on athletes and agriculture.  Dave Bangert is a dairy farmer in Clark County that sits on the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin board.  He's also a coach who knows how sports brings communities together.  That's why he believes the investment DFW makes annually to partner with the WIAA in Wisconsin makes sense.  Bangert says not only does it connect the dots on dairy nutrition in young people's diets, it highlights the connection that dairy farm families have with student athletes and their communities.  Paid for by Dairy Farmer of Wisconsin. What happens when the sports spotlight ends?  It could be by the athletes choice or not.  What's next?  For Marcus Landry, a former UW-Madison Badger basketball player, his playing career ended at 35.  Stephanie Hoff learns that Landry found agriculture when his wife sent him for eggs.  He returned with 14 chickens instead in the back of her Cadillac Escalade. He jokingly refers to it as providing a "life supply of eggs" rather than just a carton. He says those were initially kept in the living room while he built a coop outside. Today Landry and his family share their farm with students and 4-H members from the area as they work on their business plans for life.  Learning what they can do, finding self-sustainability and financial literacy.

Farms and agribusinesses need to stay engaged in conversations.  Not just on the state or national scene, but locally.  Erin Tomasik, community relations manager, Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, says there's a growing need to mobilize member farmers at the local level to ensure agricultural policies remain fair, as many local government officials now lack personal backgrounds in farming. Organizations like the Dairy Business Association are focusing on "boots on the ground" strategies to counter misunderstandings regarding manure hauling, road weight limits, and water quality. Local boards are increasingly discussing ordinances and moratoriums targeting Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), often driven by a fear that they have no say in how large-scale farms operate. Groups such as GROWW (Grassroots Organizing Western Wisconsin) and Midwest Environmental Advocates are providing frameworks to local activists to push for stricter agricultural regulations. While the entire western side of Wisconsin is feeling the pressure—partially due to urban sprawl from Minneapolis—specific areas like St. Croix, Pierce, Crawford, and Portage counties are seeing intense debates. A little light snow is drifting across the state this morning.  Stu Muck says we'll see wind chills return to our forecasts, but there is a tick up in temperatures expected next week. So what does the weather prediction model look like for the growing season of 2026?  Ben Jarboe poses that question to Alex Harrington, Chief Meteorologist with WISC-TV in Madison.  Harrington says forecast the whole growing season might be a little premature, but he does say that current modeling points to a wet spring for planting. Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom is encouraging teachers to apply for a grant that could land them a $5,000 hydroponics system.  The goal is to focus on STEM learning skills and hands on experiences in the classroom.  Pam Jahnke explains. What does halal and kosher really mean?  It's not just marketing, it's a practice focused on specific ethnicities and religious practices.  Abdullah Hussaini is the junior vice president of marketing and a commodity broker with Equity Cooperative Livestock.  He's also a lamb producer himself.  He says as the ethnic make up of Wisconsin and the nation as a whole changes, these niche markets are exploding with opportunity for lamb - IF you know the calendar and how to grow for it.

For many dairy operators in the state - community is critical.  From community involvement to conservation practices on the farm, it's all connected.  In Wisconsin, 99% of dairy farms are family-owned like David Bangert's dairy operation in Clark County.  His commitment to his community stretch beyond the farm gate. Bangert believes that in Wisconsin, the WIAA reaches people in a way that really matters. High school sports are the heartbeat of so many Wisconsin communities — whether you live in a rural town or a larger city. Through the WIAA, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin connects with tens of thousands of student-athletes, their families, and fans across hundreds of schools statewide. It starts early in the season with sponsored event programs and culminates with the state tournaments. That’s a huge opportunity to remind people that dairy farmers live in these same communities and care about the kids, and their futures. Milk is the official beverage of the WIAA. Bangert tells Pam Jahnke that he feels confident about the investment being made by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin with the WIAA because it stretches beyond the spot.  Bangert says the WIAA promotes teamwork, leadership, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle, which align perfectly with the dairy community. Milk and dairy foods support growing bodies, strong bones, and active lives. When young athletes see dairy supporting their sports and schools, it reinforces dairy as a natural part of health and performance. Which he firmly believe as a dad, a youth basketball coach, and a dairy farmer. Find out more about the partnerships paying dividends at wisconsindairy.org.

After retiring from professional basketball at age 35, Marcus Landry traded his sneakers for soil to build a multi-species farm, Beulah Family Homestead, near East Troy. He tells Stephanie Hoff about the "all or nothing" mindset that led him to expand from a suburban backyard to a 20-acre homestead (and growing) featuring everything from Highland cattle to Clydesdales. More than just a farm, Marcus also tells Mid-West Farm Report about how his 4-H programs and basketball camps are providing inner-city youth with a holistic path toward entrepreneurship, education, and a better life. And yes, he did use his wife's Cadillac Escalade to haul not just chickens, but sheep!

Explore the evolution of agricultural testing as Matthew Fenske and Stephanie Hoff talk about Dairyland Labs' journey from analyzing 12 basic feed constituents to over 30 using advanced infrared technology. The conversation breaks down how global data sets and rapid testing allow farmers to manage crop variability and economic volatility in real-time. Matt, the business development manager, explains how deep-dive analytics (down to individual amino acids) are helping nutritionists and growers maximize milk production and crop genetics despite unpredictable weather.

Independent dairy nutritionist Jake Guenzler and Stephanie Hoff explore how dairy producers can navigate variable forage quality and a plummeting butter fat market by refocusing on nutritional fundamentals. Jake, with ProAGtive, discusses the shift toward protein production, the impact of 10 years of genomic advancement on modern herds, and why high-quality forage remains the ultimate driver of milk production. He also reveals why 'carryover' corn silage is the secret weapon for maintaining performance during seasonal transitions.

Although the Super Bowl isn't a national holiday, the it's widely viewed across America. Whether you tune in to watch the game, the commercials or the halftime show, chicken wings may just be the perfect game-time snack. In fact, it's expected that Americans will eat 1.48 billion chicken wings during the big game. Tom Super, Senior Vice President of Communications at the National Chicken Council walks us through the history of the chicken wing.

Pictured: Potato pizza puffs. Photo by: Potatoes USA The humble potato is getting a makeover as culinary experts work to move the vegetable from a simple side dish to the center of the plate.  At the "Spud Lab" in Denver, RJ Harvey, Culinary Director for Potatoes USA, is leading a movement to transform how major food brands, universities, and even the medical community view the potato. He tells Stephanie Hoff that the Spud Lab has identified key functional benefits of potatoes that go beyond flavor. In baked goods, potatoes are proven to improve moisture retention and shelf life, while in savory applications, they serve as "allergen solves." For example, potatoes provide creaminess without dairy or thicken soups without flour (gluten).

National Pork Producers Council President Duane Stateler and Stephanie Hoff discuss the legislative hurdles facing the pork industry in 2026. The conversation highlights the struggle to find a federal solution to California's Proposition 12 and the widening political divide stalling a new Farm Bill. Stateler also provides an outlook on North American trade relations and the upcoming USMCA renegotiations.

Winter in Wisconsin means we're closing homes and buildings up to protect against the elements.  While necessary, it can create unique air quality issues in homes, offices and farm buildings.  Ben Jarboe finds out about some air quality work being done by Kate Mccoy, the manager for occupational health and safety surveillance program with the Department of Health and Human Services.  McCoy and Jennifer Camponechi, the program manager for environmental public health tracking, are focused on making sure being indoors isn't a detriment to people's health - and that includes farmers and their employees. A little snow might be part of your morning commute today, but it's tonight you need to monitor.  Stu Muck says that there's a chance of freezing rain and snow overnight. Potatoes are answering a lot of questions for main restaurant chains, and entertaining consumers!  Stephanie Hoff made the trip to Stevens Point for the annual convention of the WI Potato and Vegetable Growers Association.  She got quite the education from RJ Harvey, culinary chef with Potatoes USA.  Harvey works with major restaurant chains to educate them on how potatoes add value to menus and reduce labor needs.  He's also working with university campuses, including UW-Madison, on changing up their potato offerings to students. Is the market already anticipating a consumption downturn in dairy after Super Bowl Sunday?  Pam Jahnke finds out with Katie Burgess, dairy analyst with EverAg.  Burgess says that trend is expected but the recent wintery weather in the southeast has brought a surge of demand.  She's also keeping an eye on nonfat dry milk.  That market's hitting prices not seen since 2022!  It may influence the price Wisconsin dairy operators see.

The back and forth conversations continue at the state capitol, and Wisconsin Senator, Pat Testin, is toggling from one room to the other testifying. Testin spoke with Pam Jahnke about the tempo of conversations, and specifically focused in on his mission to protect the state's hemp industry, as well as thoroughly vetting proposals around lab grown meat. Opponents of protecting the state's hemp industry site public health and pediatric safety as major reasons for stricter oversight of products.  Testin says many elements being proposed are "heavy handed", especially for an industry already established. Lab grown meat labeling, on the other hand, is something that Testin says needs more labeling.  He says if consumers prefer to eat something grown in a petri dish versus a pasture, they have that right - but, that all consumers should be informed of what they're buying or consuming. The negotiations continue in a feverish pitch at the state house.  

Commodity groups are still on edge.  They're grasping what tariffs mean globally and they're trying to find ways around the system to keep sales going.  U.S. corn has remained competitive.  That's the good news from Jed Bower, president of the National Corn Growers Association.  Jill Welke does a deeper dive into global challenges as well as domestic obstacles that look to stall out corn growers profit potential. Improving temperatures help us enjoy our Wednesday, but Stu Muck says there's a slight chance of snow tomorrow morning. Sales activity remains robust for the Steffes Auction Group.  Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group tells Pam Jahnke about some new acreage that's coming up for auction in western Wisconsin this month.  He also highlights the online information people can find to help guide sales on their website.  Paid for by Steffes Group. The American Farm Bureau Federation's reminding consumers that very little of the money they spend on food this weekend(or any weekend) for the Super Bowl ends up back at the farm gate.  Faith Parum, economist for AFBF says only 15.9 cents of every food dollar makes it back to a grower. Super Bowl weekend is big business for the food industry though.  One staple that's found its way to the top of the menu - chicken wings.  Kiley Allan finds out how the chicken industry prepares for their big day, and what the origin of wings even is!  She speaks with  Tom Super, Senior Vice President of Communications, National Chicken Council.

Weather is one of the biggest question marks for farmers in the growing season, often wondering if there is going to be a drought or if their crop is going to get drowned out. Alex Harrington, the Chief Meteorologist at Channel 3, says he believes we can expect a wetter than average spring. He also gives a look at the severe weather outlook and how hurricanes in the gulf can impact the midwestern weather.

Farmers know that even when the temperatures drop, work still needs to get done. Many of these jobs will take place inside, and that creates a new level of danger. Kate Mccoy, the manager for occupational health and safety surveillance program with DHS, and Jennifer Camponechi, the program manager for environmental public health tracking program with DHS, share air quality concerns for indoor jobs. These include carbon monoxide poisoning and mixing chemicals.

Potatoes are at the heart of Wisconsin agriculture with the state being the third largest producer in the country. 78th Alice In Dairyland, Sarah Hagenow, shares some fun facts about these spuds and a recipe for Loaded Pizza Baked Potatoes.

Briess Malt & Ingredients CEO Craig Briess and Stephanie Hoff discuss how the 150-year-old family-owned business continues to navigate industry changes. The company supplies to over 50 percentof the craft beer space. Briess leverages the "clean label" movement and natural processing to meet modern consumer demands for healthier ingredients. Briess also highlights the logistical hurdles of international trade and the critical need for Wisconsin’s rail and maritime infrastructure upgrades to sustain future growth.