Matti Wafle, a last year exhibitor at the Juneau County Fair from Lyndon Station, has been exhibiting sheep and horses for 10 years. This is her last year showing as a junior member however she does not plan to go far. She shares more about what her time as an exhibitor has meant to her and her future plans to stay involved.

It's getting to be that time of the year!  All the great fruits and vegetables people have grown need to be processed for safe storage.  Stephanie Hoff talks to Heather Quackenboss, LaCrosse Co Extension Agent, about what to be aware of when canning/preserving - and what to look for when buying supplies. Wendy Meyers with Alcivia Coop talks to Pam Jahnke about financing options available through their Verity Business arm.  It's the Alcivia Coop Talk paid program. Ryan Yonkman with EverAg joins Pam Jahnke for a live conversation about the rebound we've seen in fluid milk prices - the uptick in world milk production - and why the U.S. is poised in a critical spot for world business.

Not only is a good variety of foods important, but a good variety of where the food comes from. With the severe drought in California, UW-Madison Prof. Bill Tracy says the food chain should not rely on just one region for the majority of produce. That's why interest is growing among foodies, farmers, and researchers to develop seeds with traits conducive to Wisconsin. Other traits include: easy to process, long shelf life, and great tasting. However, challenges remain in getting students in the plant science departments on campus. The Farm to Flavor event Tracy references is Aug. 21 in Madison: https://seedalliance.org/events/farm-to-flavor/

Wisconsin hemp production keeps innovating in the state.  It's more than just CBD oil.  Pam Jahnke visits with Carl Duley, Buffalo Co Ag Agent, about field days scheduled focusing on hemp.  Duley says they're trying to get answers on seeding rates, fertility needs, as well as products that can use hemp. Sen. Joan Ballweg from Markesan updates Pam Jahnke on some budget movements at the state house.  The Joint Finance Committee has disbursed funds for WI's Ag Export Initiative as well as the Nitrogen Optimization Pilot program.  Ballweg also notes that there's proposed changes to county fair premium restrictions.  Exhibitors would not be able to collect premiums on certain entries that appear at multiple fairs. Stephanie Hoff witnessed the ground breaking ceremony for Decatur Dairy of Brodhead.  She visits with Master Cheesemaker, Steve Stettler about the $6 million investment in a new processing facility.

On Friday, the application period closes for the Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Resiliency Grants. In the first round of these grants, DATCP got 100 applications requesting more than $4.4 million in funding. Because of the high demand, the state created the Meat and Poultry Supply Chain Resiliency Grants -- up to $10 million in ARPA funds to continue to grow Wisconsin's meat processing industry and improve the long-term viability of the state's livestock industry, explains DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski. Wisconsin meat processors can get grants of up to $150,000. Applications for the grant were released in May, and the application period will close this Friday, Aug. 19.

Earlier this year, Master Cheesemaker Steve Stettler of Decatur Dairy was accepting first place for his curds at the World Cheese Contest. Fast forward to this week, he's beaming with pride once again as Decatur Dairy and Decatur Swiss Cheese Cooperative break ground on an expansion of their plant in Brodhead. Stettler tells Mid-West Farm Report the current plant is bursting at the seams meeting current demand. The $6 million project will add a packaging, curing, and warehousing facility. But the extra space isn't just for cheese -- it's room for the next generation. His two daughters and son-in-law will begin their cheesemaking courses this fall.

Fudge is a pleasing dessert, gift, party food, and delicious snack. Fudge comes in many flavors other than chocolate. There’s peanut butter, rocky road, caramel, maple, and so many more. Whatever your favorite flavor, there’s likely a fudge for you to enjoy. What really makes these flavors special is when they use Wisconsin ingredients to make them.  Linda Schulte, owner of Valley Fudge and Candy in Coon Valley, shares more on how they use Wisconsin butter in their fudge and the process of running a fudge business. While supply chain issues cause some challenges, it hasn't slowed down their business as they sell to over 1000 shops across the united states, highlighting their pride in using 100% Wisconsin butter.

Sloan Implement President Jeff Sloan joins Mid-West Farm Report to talk about what's happening at the dealership ahead of the harvest. He says it's the service department's busiest month -- getting combines through the shop, assembling new machines, inspecting customer machines, and selling used equipment. He says repair technicians had a break over the summer and are ready to be back full bore for harvest. He says Sloan is in a better position than it was in the past for parts -- $17M more in parts on the shelf today than they did a year ago.

Clair Retzlaff and his son Dennis tell the story of their family's century farm in Winnebago County. Clair will turn 92 this September. Around the 50s he started farming and farmed up until 4 years ago. The farm was a dairy operation until 2001 when Clair had a heart attack. That didn’t stop him and since then he and Dennis have transitioned to cash copping.

Peggy and Mickey James tell the story of their family's century farm in Iowa County. The farm was acquired in 1915 when Mickey's great grandpa rented the farm before he bought the first 40 acres in 1920. He then added another 120 acres in 1926. They were known for having Milking Shorthorns that people would come from all over to buy for showing. Today they are working on updating the farmstead, rent out the cropland to their family, and raise beef cattle. 

Staci Pope Hansen tells the story of her family's century farm in Rock County. The farm was acquired in 1922, when Staci's great great grandparents purchased the original 32 acres. The farm is nicknamed the darling farm due to its size and everything on the farm being petite. It holds a special place in the family’s heart as Staci’s dad was drafted and injured in war. After months of rehab, the first place he went to was the farm as it was where he felt safe. Today they rent out the land to local farmers.

Matt Immel tells the story of his family's 80-acre century farm in Fond du Lac County. Matt’s grandpa George, was really looking forward to the 100 year milestone but unfortunately passed due to covid. They were one of the first family farms to settle in Fond du Lac. Today they have 73 acres that they rent out to a local dairy farmer. The original barn is still standing with an American and navy flag to represent grandpa Gorge.

Steven Schleicher tells the story of his family's 160-acre century farm in Dane County. The farm was acquired in 1922. It was a dairy operation that has continued to stay in the family even today.  In 2000 they put a new milking parlor in and expanded the dairy to 75 cows. Today, the farm is still completely family owned and operated and with hopes to pass it on.

They amaze people every fall.  Giant pumpkins.  Stephanie Hoff visits with giant pumpkin grower, Tom Matsma from Waupun about the skill it takes to grow these giants. It's been years since Wisconsin has kept an active record of farm accidents and fatalities that have occurred.  Now the National Farm Medicine Center along with other partners, are re-engaging in the data collection.  Charitee Seebecker talks to Scott Heiberger from the National Farm Medicine Center in Marshfield about a new collaboration to keep track of farm fatalities and accidents in the state. Economic developments in China surprised the markets on Monday in Chicago.  John Hineberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing, says that coupled with recent rains - have commodities on the ropes.  He's also watching more beef cattle go to market, and fluid milk markets respond to schools reopening.

Cole Baerlocher, National FFA President, visits with Jill Welke about how his term has been evolving.  He says it's been hectic but exhilarating. The WI Dept. of Natural Resources is working to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors like they did during the pandemic.  Allison Lund visits with WI Dept. of Natural Resource Sec., Cole Preston, about fluctuations they've seen in attendance at state parks and camps.  The new "Out You Go" initiative is designed to remind people about the benefits in being outdoors. Dairy farmers look like rock stars to school kids exposed to the "Adopt A Calf" program.  School children virtually follow the life development of a baby dairy calf, with the help of the rockstar dairy farmers that care for them.  Paid program from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

Steam engines are the powerful giants that once were cutting edge technology in agriculture and manufacturing.  Today, those steam engines are antiques that require special care to operate.  Allison Lund talks to Jeff Bloemers, Wisconsin Historical Steam Engine Association, about the group that takes care of those aging giants. Farmers want to be part of the solutions when it comes to soil conservation, water quality efforts and more.  Jeff Endres, President of Yahara Pride Farms, says that farmers work in partnership with Mother Nature every day to try and feed the world, and should be part of conservation solutions - not accusations. Lisa Lamkins from AARP joins Pam Jahnke to stress how important it is that everyone votes - including those over 55.  Lamkins explains the power of the demographic and the policy items AARP is monitoring.  Sponsored by AARP.

Dairy farms could be the future of sustainable energy for rural communities.  Charitee Seebecker talks to Katie Grinstead from Vir-Claire Farms in Fond du Lac about the energy being generated through their methane digester. The Wisconsin State Fair continues in West Allis.  One educational element that's gone through some changes is the Discovery Barnyard where hands on learning about animal agriculture and farming is the goal.  Charitee Seebecker talks with Kailen Smerchek, the superintendent of the barnyard, about what's changed. Dairy is starting to feel the fluctuations consumers are imposing on grocery purchasing and dining out. Cody Koster, broker/analyst with EverAg in Chicago, joins Pam Jahnke to talk details and risk management.

Inter-Agency cooperation has been key for a couple programs that impact Wisconsin agriculture.  Pam Jahnke visits with the secretary and CEO of the WI Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) about grants they're distributing to companies focused on technology that can help agriculture and food production in the state.Inflation is a big part of conversations lately, but is it impacting agricultural sales?  Pam Jahnke talks about that with Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group.  He says equipment and farm land prices remain firm, but country homes values may be hit.  It's the regular Steffes Auction update. Steve Springer is a beef producer from southwest Wisconsin who just returned from the Cattlemen's Beef Board Summer Meeting in Reno, NV.  He talks with Pam Jahnke about consumer trends that we're shared with board members, and where the export market is taking U.S. beef.  It's sponsored by the WI Beef Council and Equity Cooperative Livestock.

The cranberry is a little, red, tart fruit with a big punch, and Wisconsin produces more of this power-packed berry than any other state in the U.S. The timing of the harvest depends on the berry. Right now, harvesting berries as fresh fruit is the priority. Things are on tack for this year's harvest. Cranberry growers are getting harvest equipment ready  and waiting for the color to come out of the fruit and then harvest will get underway. Tom Lochner, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Cranberry Growers Association shares more on the upcoming harvest and outlook for growers.

The Swerig Farm in Dane County still has remnants of not only its first settler but the Native Americans that lived there before that. Here's another story of a farm that is celebrating 150 years of operating in the same family, brought to you courtesy of Compeer Financial. Even the original stone barn is still in use as a stripping house for tobacco. Tade tells Mid-West Farm Report all about the story of his grandfather’s grandfather’s journey to Pleasant Springs.

In 10 Wisconsin counties, forestry is the No. 1 employer. Any mill closures or change in markets has a major impact on the economy. Chief State Forester Heather Berklund says the DNR's role is in all areas of the supply chain -- ensuring industry partners are supported, keeping forests healthy from invasive pests, working with landowners, and recruiting other forestry businesses to the state. The housing and remodeling market is still strong, but with interest rates hiking, it puts uncertainty on the lumber market. The biggest concern that DNR is working on with loggers is transportation costs.

Today marks the first day of the first annual Wisconsin Hazelnut Week. The Upper Midwest Hazelnut Development Initiative has put together events to help folks learn more about growing and harvesting hazelnuts. Jason Fischbach is the Initiative director and an Extension specialist. He explains hazelnuts are a multi-use crop. The kernels, oils and meal can be used in a broad range of food products like edible oils, spreadable nut butters, nut flours and confections. With so many uses and so many markets, hazelnuts will provide many economic opportunities for growers and processors, he says.  Monday, Aug 15: Hazelnuts 101 via Zoom Thursday, Aug 18, AHC Field Day in La Crosse, 3-5PM Friday, Aug 19, Central WI Field Day in Amherst, 1-4PM Saturday, Aug 20, Southern WI Field Day in Spring Green and Barneveld, 9-3PM Saturday, Aug 20, Northern WI Field Day in Bayfield, 8-Noon Register: https://www.midwesthazelnuts.org/

Tim Schneider, the senior vice president of ag lending at Nicolet Bank, says the verdict is mixed. The sense is that the Federal Reserve won't be as aggressive in raising rates through the end of the year, but then it will stabilize. Some say inflation will be restrained and interest rates will fall in 2023. Either way, it's influencing purchasing habits. Schneider high construction costs coupled with high interest rates, had most farms pause on expansions. Better commodity prices have allowed farmers to replace equipment. Banks are sitting on ample liquidity thanks to the stimulus that the government put into the economy over the last few years. Risk standards have been tightened with the potential of a looming recession, he adds.

In 1943, University of Wisconsin Extension Safety Specialists began compiling an annual Wisconsin Farm-Related Fatality Report.  Unfortunately, every year Wisconsin’s agricultural community continues to suffer the loss of individuals who are engaged in farm work or a member of a family farm. Starting in 2020, the National Farm Medicine Center partnered with the University of Wisconsin Extension Safety Specialists to continue to compile these reports.  Scott Heiberger, Communications Manager of the National Farm Medicine Center, shares more on the Wisconsin Farm Fatality Report and how things are looking.

Traditionally, caustic paste or a hot iron is used to singe off the cells that cause horns to grow in calves. Paste has grown in popularity in recent years with little to no research on how much of the product to use. Sylvia Kehoe, UW River Falls Professor of Dairy Science has been working on an adhesive patch technology for disbudding the cells that cause horns to grow. She shares more on what the applicator is and how she developed it.

La Crosse County Extension Specialist Heather Quackenboss says beware of recipes you see online, on Facebook, or on TikTok -- "dry canning" or "upside down canning" can cause food poisoning! She says there haven't been reports yet on canning supply shortages like we saw during the height of the pandemic. You can use plastic mayo jars or old pickle jars to freeze produce, but not to can for shelf stability. Make sure you get your pressure canner checked out. Anyone can call the La Crosse County Extension for help with that.

Farming is both a specialized industry and high risk when it comes to financials. That’s why one of the core functions of the Wisconsin Bankers Association is the Agricultural Lending School. This is a hands-on seminar for members to get a handle on today’s ag markets and farm balance sheets. The association’s director of education Lori Kalscheuer tells Mid-West Farm Report about enrollment numbers and curriculum for this year's cohort.

Every year the Badger Steam and Gas show has a tractor that they feature. This year they are working with Allis Chalmers to put on the “Gathering of the Orange (GOTO).  Allis Chalmers has their hand in a lot of manufacturing from chainsaws to refrigerators to dam generators producing electricity.   The Badger Steam and Gas Engine Club will be hosting the Gathering of the Orange, August 19-21 in Baraboo. There will be a tractor parade on Friday morning and fun for the whole family.  Mark Frey, Allis Chalmers enthusiast and Badger Steam and Gas Volunteer shares more on what the Gathering of The Orange feature is and the connection with Allis Chalmers.

Congressman Tom Tiffany introduced the GRAIN for America Act. This legislation would place a 1-year moratorium on the enrollment of farmland in the Conservation Reserve Program, which pays farmers to leave land uncultivated. Congressman Tom Tiffany shares more on what the GRAIN for America Act is and how it will impact Wisconsin farmers. 

The Yahara Pride Farms group was formed about 10 years ago to better the water quality of Madison lakes and surrounding areas. Back then, one of the main focuses of the group was showing farmers how to incorporate cover crops. Now, its focus has shifted towards creating a network of farmers and non-farmers to help bridge the gap between farmers and the general public. Jeff Endres is the President of Yahara Pride Farms, and he shares more about why the group formed and what's top of mind for them today. 

Wisconsin's garlic harvest is just about wrapped up, and it looks like an average year for the state's garlic crop. Weather didn't seem to pose too many problems, and pests and diseases were kept at bay.  Angela Adams is the owner of Adams Garlic Farm in Cassville with her husband, Don. She shares more about how the crop looked this year and explains what kind of work goes into raising garlic in Wisconsin. 

A Wisconsin based band, Scotty Tyce and Power Take Off (PTO) has recently released a 4-song digital collection titled Keep Truckin'. Scott was inspired by seeing how hard 4-H youth worked to care for their livestock projects, and he wanted to find a way to give back to them. For each song download, the band will donate the proceeds to the Wisconsin 4-H Foundation Scott, along with his vocalist, Maryellen, share more about what went into forming the band and creating the songs, as well as the impact they hope to make. 

Some key priorities that remain for farmers are preserving their land from development and helping to better soil and water quality for the next generation. One farmer located just outside of Madison has embraced that theme.  Bob Uphoff is the Vice-Chair for Yahara Pride Farms, and he farms just outside of Madison in the Town of Dunn. He shares more about the farmland preservation agreements he has with the township, as well as the collaboration that takes place between Yahara Pride Farms and farmers to improve soil and water health. 

Agritourism is the adventure of learning, tasting and experiencing the origins of food. Wisconsin’s farmers, ranchers and producers do it well, showcasing the state’s diversity through tours, farm stays, farm-to-table dining and more.  Sheila Everhart, the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association shares more on fall agritourism, Wisconsin Agritourism Week, and what their role is in supporting Wisconsin agritourism destinations. 

The Wisconsin Holstein Association is a not-for-profit membership organization with the purpose of promoting the Wisconsin Holstein registered breed and their breeders and owners. Each year the Wisconsin Holstein Association hosts the All-Breeds Futurity at the Wisconsin State Fair. Ana McCourt, the Wisconsin Holstein Association summer intern, shares what the futurity is, the work it takes to host, and the impact it has on the dairy industry.

In the rolling hills of Green County you'll find the Burgy Family Farm nestled in near Monticello.  Originally the family came from Switzerland and worked their way to Green County. Since he was a small boy, Glen Burgy knew he wanted to be a farmer.  Today he's the fifth generation working the land, and he shares the family story and what his plans with Pam Jahnke. Burgy says the original farm had managed to grow to around 475 acres by the turn of the century.  Today, Burgy Family Farm has now expanded to 900 crop acres today. Burgy shares some of the highs and lows they've experienced as a family.

Fairs are full of opportunities to learn about Wisconsin agriculture. Wisconsin’s agriculture industry is diverse, vibrant, and vital to our communities, providing jobs and contributing more than $104.8 billion to our state’s economy every year. Wisconsin farmers are working every day of the year to produce safe, nutritious food products for you and for people around the world. The fair is the perfect place to learn about Wisconsin agriculture including where food comes from and the farmers who produce it.  The Compeer Discovery Barnyard at the Wisconsin State Fair is an area where fairgoers of all ages can learn about production agriculture. Kailen Smerchek, the superintendent of the Compeer Discovery Barnyard shares more about what it takes to put on the animal and educational displays.

One Century Farm being recognized this year also saw one of its family members turning 100 years old. The Crass family farm in Adams County belongs to John & Susan Crass, and John's mother, Verna, celebrated her 100th birthday alongside the farm. Verna shares more about the farm's history and what life was like growing up on her family's farm, while John shares some of his memories and what the farm looks like today.  The attached image is of Susan and John Crass with John's mother, Verna.

Greg Hanson recalls driving his first tractor at the age of 6 and fondly remembers the last team of horses, Duke and Dock, that were on his family's Waupaca County Farm. Greg's family farm received its Century Farm recognition this year at the Wisconsin State Fair, and he traces the farm's history back to his grandparents. They purchased land in Clintonville in 1922 and purchased a team of horses and 3 cows for $300 to kickstart the operation. Greg shares more about the farm's history.  The attached image is Greg and Kristy Hanson with their son and grandson.

Brad Brogley recalls the hard work and family ties that were created on his family's Grant County Farm. Brad, along with his 4 siblings, grew up with strong agricultural roots and have found out more of the farm's history thanks to the work of their mother, Elaine. Not only did they learn more about their ancestors who entered the U.S. through Ellis Island, but they also learned that their great great grandfather was one of the only vets in Grant County back in his day. The Rodney S. & Thomas V. Brogley Farm in Platteville received its 150 year recognition at the Wisconsin State Fair this year. Brad shares more about how the farm got its start and where it is today.  The attached image is is John and Caroline Brauchler, the boys' great grandparents. He was a farmer and a veterinarian in the area. 

Disaster struck earlier this summer when a tornado hit Carlene Zaremba's Monroe County Farm, taking out the barn and leaving behind some serious damage. However, the tornado was not able to take from the farm's rich history. This year, Carlene's family farm received the Century Farm recognition. She shares more about the farm's history and shares some of her memories.  The attached image is Thomas & Carlene Zaremba. 

Barbara Ausmus Lowe is the great-granddaughter of one of the first limburger cheesemakers in Wisconsin. While the taste for limburger cheese has not been passed down to her, the farm property in Green County has remained in the lineage, and is celebrating 100 years. This is another Centennial Farm story brought to you courtesy of Compeer Financial. Barb tells Mid-West Farm Report about her family’s 100-year-old farm in the township of Clarno, between Monroe and the state line. 

When cooking dinner, many turn to beef or pork. But, another healthy option is bison meat. The Wisconsin Bison Producers Association is a network of Wisconsin ranchers and farmers raising bison that are trying to spread the word about serving healthy meat such as bison. Andy Tenaglia, a chef with the Wisconsin Bison Producers Association is helping to run their booth at the Wisconsin State Fair and shares more about what the association is and how to properly prepare bison meat.

The Wisconsin State Fair is full of opportunities to learn about Wisconsin agriculture. Dairy Lane is one area where fairgoers of all ages can learn about Wisconsin’s vibrant dairy industry. From learning about cheesemaking to how farmers care for their cattle, there is something for everyone.   Nicole Barlass, President of the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board shares more about the Dairy Lane exhibit at the Wisconsin State Fair, located in the southeast end of the lower cattle barn.

Wisconsin has a wide variety of state parks and natural areas for visitors to enjoy. The Wisconsin DNR has created an initiative aimed to make folks aware of all of the outdoor opportunities available to them.  The 'Out Wi Go' campaign has the goal of helping people to "find your adventure" in Wisconsin. Preston D. Cole is the Secretary of the Wisconsin DNR, and he details that initiative. 

One of the timeless treats that can be enjoyed at the Wisconsin State Fair is a roasted ear of corn. However, there is lots of coordination and planning that goes into getting that fresh corn to the fair park - and getting enough of it.  Eric Young is the Chairman of the corn roast with the New Berlin Lions Club. He shares what goes into getting around 100,000 ears of corn to the State Fair and how they plan for an event of that size throughout the year.

Beekeepers faced a cooler spring this year, but despite the cold weather, the honey crop is looking strong. This is the word from James Hillemeyer, Co-owner of LB Werks and a Director of the Wisconsin Honey Producers Association. He gives a look at honey production this year and the next steps to prepare for fall and winter. But first, he shares more about beekeeping in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board plans to sell all first place entries from the Dairy Products Contest at the Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction on Aug. 11. The proceeds from the auction are used to help fund scholarships for students pursuing careers in the dairy industry, dairy education at the State Fair (Dairy Lane, daily milking demonstrations), and junior dairy exhibitor recognition, says coordinator Ann Schulz. Get involved by contacting executivedirector@wsfdairypromo.org. 

Did you know lavender is a useful herb that can spruce up a wide variety of dishes? Aside from its calming benefits as an essential oil, it can also give a unique flavor to your food.  Aron McReynolds is the owner of New Life Lavender & Cherry Farm in Baraboo with his wife, Laura. He shares more about the culinary uses of lavender, but first outlines the work that goes into growing it and the challenges they face with the plant in Wisconsin. 

Adam Kolb shares the story of his family’s Century farm in Manitowoc County. The farm was purchased by the first Kolb generation in 1900. The land was used to raise feeder pigs and run a dairy operation until 1997. The Kolb family then focused solely on the dairy and expanded their herd. In 2010, Adam exited the dairy industry and since has transitioned the farm into a cash crop business. He also runs his own custom fieldwork business.