MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

There's more to that scoop of ice cream on a cone or in a dish. Aubrey Schlimgen finds out about the secret ingredient one Wisconsin ice cream maker uses to woo consumers into their next flavor. She talks with Ken Norton, Director of Retail Operations-Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Co. in Madison. The company started in 1962 started as a chocolate shop with ice cream, then shifted to just ice cream. Today he says they serve all over the US. This year to celebrate national Ice cream day July 20th, Norton says they'll hold their 2nd annual Cone Crawl where people can go to all locations and earn prizes and try new flavors. Severe weather is in the forecast for Wisconsin today. Stu Muck breaks out the hourly movement of this storm and the weather that's behind it. Volume has escalated for the Steffes Group auction crew. Ashley Huhn tells Pam Jahnke that it's not unusual to see big ticket items like combines come onto the market before the fall harvest begins. He also notes that this is traditionally the time of year when you'll find some of the best buys for equipment. Paid for by Steffes Group.This adverse weather is something that county fair organizers can't change. What they can do is try and find a little protection from the storm - literally. Stephanie Hoff talks to Robert Holmes, president of Spectrum Weather and Specialty Insurance. He focuses on creating packages that help fairs protect themselves from huge financial losses when weather events cancel things like truck and tractor pulls, as well as concerts. Big ticket investments that can cost fairs thousands.Dr. Amy Radunz just returned from the annual summer conference for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association in California. Radunz has been named the Region 7 representative on the federation of state beef councils. She talks with Pam Jahnke about the agenda that beef producers are pursuing in opening and maintaining international trade channels. Paid for by Equity Livestock Cooperative Sales Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year has seen an increase in storms, but not all of these storms are on earth. Geomagnetic storms have been running rampant in space and may be affecting agriculture. Shawn Dahl, the Service Coordinator at the Space Weather Prediction Center shares some of the effects these storms have on agriculture here in the US and some insight in work they are doing to help mitigate their effects for farmers. He says that in 2024, one of these storms that took place in May caused a $500,000,000 loss in the corn industry alone. They are working to be able to predict these storms and get the warning broadcasted to help minimize losses that may occur because of them.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ken Norton serves as the Director of Retail Operations with Chocolate Shoppe Ice cream Co. and has been with the company 5 years. He had his own business and retired, then fell in love with Chocolate Shoppe and their brand. The company started in 1962 Chuck Sr. Deadman and his wife had a Chocolate shop with ice cream, then shifted to just ice cream. Nowadays you can still find him checking in daily on the thermostat, but his sons Chuck Jr. and Dave Deadman now run the company. They serve all over the US now but started in Madison, and have 9 locations and a production facility. When it comes to naming the flavors it's a large group of people that focus around a name that grabs peoples attention, peak interest or relatability. Every year they run a creative flavor contest which is where some of their iconic flavors like This $&@! Just got Serious and Kitty Kitty Bang came from. Their new flavor from the contest this year was released in Stores Monday which was "Apple Cider Donut" This year to Celebrate national Ice cream day July 20th their 2nd annual Cone Crawl is back by high demand. Where people can go to all locations and earn prizes and try new flavors and gather prizes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College is offering Commercial Driver’s License training. The session began in early June with a CDL Prep Course. The students transitioned to hands-on training later in the month before taking their state exam on June 28. Business and Industry Services at Southwest Tech, partnered with Gilbertson and his company, to offer the training on campus. Prior to this training, students would have to travel elsewhere in the state or Midwest to gain these skills. “This is a perfect opportunity for us to reach students in our area who are interested in advancing their skills,” says Holly Straka, director of Business and Industry Services. “We have had inquiries about this type of training over the years, and we are proud to now be able to offer this, locally.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Developing a new variety of alfalfa doesn't happen overnight. Dave Witte is the Project Manager at Forage Genetics International. He explains the development process. "We start with about 300,000 plants in our breeding nurseries. We spend four or five years monitoring those plants, putting a lot of stress on those plants." He also explains the elements FGI takes into consideration during development. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No! It's drones & Artificial Intelligence (AI)! Julia Guerra, Solutions Architect and licensed drone pilot at FlyGuys, shares what's new in agricultural drone use. An Executive Order that made it easier to fly drones opened more opportunities for farmers. Drones are capturing data that allows for real-time feedback on soil, moisture, topography and more ways to increase producers' bottom line.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the more than four decades since Wisconsin’s first soy checkoff program launched, growers often wonder where, when, why and how checkoff resources are directed toward funding research, creating value-added uses and increasing market access. The Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board (WSMB) is inviting growers from across the state to get a closer look this summer by applying to participate in WSMB’s second statewide See For Yourself (SFY) mission Aug. 12-14. The tour’s first iteration was held in August 2024 in Wisconsin and Illinois, comprising WSMB and the Wisconsin Soybean Association (WSA) leaders. This year, WSMB is inviting grower participation from beyond the board. “We welcome the opportunity to be transparent and bring in our state’s soybean producers to join us and see for themselves how the soy checkoff is driving profitability and innovation at every turn,” WSMB Executive Director Adam Kask said. The board is offering spots to eight active Wisconsin soybean farmers. The delegation will also include WSMB farmer leaders, staff and University of Wisconsin researchers, including Dr. Shawn Conley. Expenses, which include two nights lodging, meals and transportation, will be provided by WSMB. Checkoff check in The tour will begin Tuesday morning, Aug. 12 at the Arlington Research Station, where Conley and colleagues Damon Smith and Rodrigo Werle will showcase the latest advancements in checkoff research. “We work with farmers a lot,” said Conley, a WSA director. “They want to know what their checkoff dollars are being used for, so my biggest goal is showing the work and significant amount of research dollars that farmers are supporting, and how we take very seriously the opportunity given to use these monies in a good way.” Conley said he’s also excited to demonstrate the latest technologies in drone and sprayer technologies. “There’s a lot of tools we’re developing in AI that we want to show growers,” he said. “Farmers like to see the cool things we’re doing with our technologies.” The delegation will then head to an area cranberry facility before visiting Chippewa Valley Technical College for an outdoor demonstration of SoyFoam, a soy-based firefighting foam created by Wisconsin native Dave Garlie’s Cross Plains Solutions. “SoyFoam is a project our board continues to be passionate about as a value-added use that protects our first responders, and we’re seeing that momentum behind a soy-based firefighting foam spreading across the country right now,” WSMB President Jonathan Gibbs said. On Aug. 13, growers will tour Alsum Farms & Produce and later visit Crave Brothers Creamery to learn more about how dairy cows, the state’s largest consumer of soymeal, add demand to Wisconsin soybeans. Day 2 is capped by another WSMB checkoff investment, the DeLong Co.’s Agricultural Maritime Export Facility at Port Milwaukee. The terminal is estimated to increase exports through Port Milwaukee by as much as 400,000 metric tons per year. Kask, who’s toured the facility multiple times, said WSMB continues to search for new international markets for the state’s soybean farmers, who export around 60% of their commodity. “Diversifying our markets, promoting new uses and sponsoring some of the nation’s most advanced soybean research – those are all core priorities our farmers are depending on to improve their bottom line,” he said. The SFY tour will conclude Aug. 14 with a return visit to the Arlington Research Station for a plot tour. Click here to review the tentative agenda. Interested SFY applicants can click here to apply for the SFY mission by July 22. Farmer applicants approved by WSMB will be July 25. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erika Rodbell is a Forage Research Agronomist with Forage Genetics International. She works out of the location in Nampa, ID. She talks about the difference in alfalfa varieties in different regions in the US. "So in Wisconsin, you have the opposite water problem that we have in the West....those are two very distinct extremes that alfalfa has to be bred to withstand. They have to withstand wet. I like to call it wet feet. They also have to be able to withstand drought conditions." She explains alfalfa traits that thrive in Wisconsin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers can expect some continuity and a few key benefits when it comes to their federal income taxes this year. One of the most notable updates is that income tax brackets and standard deductions will stay largely the same, thanks to a budget extension passed by Congress, explains Extension Farm Management Specialist Kelly Wilfert. The rates, originally adjusted in 2018, were set to sunset in 2026. Without this extension, taxpayers would have seen standard deductions drop and tax brackets shift upward. "We'll still see those standard adjustments for inflation, but in general, it's not going to be a major change from what we experienced last year, although certainly it's a pretty significant change from what we would have seen next year had that change not been made," Wilfert says.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do t-shirts, cheese auctions, and cow care have in common? They’re all part of the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin’s presence at this year’s Wisconsin State Fair! In this month's Checking In With Dairy Checkoff, we’re digging into the many ways DFW is supporting youth, educating fairgoers, and celebrating the state’s world-class dairy industry with board member Jody Miller. From sponsoring youth showmanship awards and supporting the iconic Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction, DFW is spotlighting the families behind Wisconsin dairy. We also take you behind the scenes of Dairy Lane and the live milking demonstrations. With this year’s educational theme, “Care of Cows: It’s What We Do,” you'll learn how committed Wisconsin’s dairy farmers are to the well-being of their animals and their communities. Learn more: https://www.wisconsindairy.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I scream, you scream… and now, you can scream for lavender ice cream at Country Lavender and Orchard in Kiel, Wisconsin! We’re back with another episode celebrating Wisconsin’s specialty crop growers. Today we’re heading to a farm that smells like summer and feels like serenity. Sandy Buchholz and her husband, John, started Country Lavender and Orchard in 2017 with a handful of fruit trees and a dream. Fast forward to today, and their retirement hobby has grown into thousands of lavender plants and a destination you don’t want to miss. Visitors can stroll through fragrant fields of fresh lavender, shop for handcrafted products like lotions, sprays, oils, and car fresheners — and, yes, try three brand-new lavender ice creams. You’ll also find hands-on classes like wreath making, painting workshops, and even yoga right in the lavender fields. Looking to plan your own rural getaway? Head to the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association website to find farms like Sandy’s. If you're a farmer dreaming of opening your gates to guests, WATA offers mentorship, marketing help, and licensing support to guide you every step of the way. This podcast series is brought to you courtesy of Specialty Crop Block Grant 23-10. Learn more about how to engage with Wisconsin's agricultural tourism industry at https://gowiagtourism.com/.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Geomagnetic storms have been occurring with more frequency this year, and it could be causing problems for production agriculture in unlikely areas. Ben Jarboe discusses it with Shawn Dahl, the service coordinator at the space weather prediction center. He says some of the effects these storms have on agriculture here in the US causes damage passersby may not see. For example, Dahl says that one storm last May caused a 500 million dollar loss in the corn industry alone. His goal now is to be able to predict these storms and have weather broadcasters spread the news to mitigate the losses they cause.Stu Muck says today won't be too bad with temps in the upper 80's. He cautions to get things done outside today because tomorrow everything changes.The Bureau of Land Management within The Department of the Interior is hosting its Online Corral auction featuring wild horses and donkeys. The online sale is July 14-21. One of the pick-up and adoption events is on Sept. 12-13 at the Ozaukee County Fairgrounds in Cedarburg. Jason Lutterman from the National Wild Horse and Burro Program tells Stephanie Hoff about this opportunity to provide a good home for a wild horse or donkey. Lutterman says these animals have gone on to be good workhorses, therapy companions, or show winners. Wild horses don't have any "bad habits" that previously trained horses may have. Donkeys are good guard animals for your existing herd.Buy the rumor, trade the fact. That seems to be where the commodity markets are living these days. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says that without knowing if the Trump administration will really enforce threatened tariffs, they're forced to trade the rumor.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Renz is a professor and extension specialist, focusing in alfalfa and pasture weed management. He gives us a look at how the wet spring has allowed for weed issues to advance quickly. He says scouting is key right now, and notes herbicide carryover is becoming more problematic to top quality alfalfa management and keeping record of what herbicide goes where is key.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Choosing to go to college can be one of the greatest investments in your life or your kid's life but may also be the most costly. Chelsea Wunnicke with the state of Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, College Savings Department, says that recently they learned more about how agriculture is different from other industries and how Edvest 529 helps families to save early on to make a big difference later.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Miller, one of the original Miltrim Farms in Athens, has focused his attention away from dairy operations to tractor collecting. Miller says although he may farm with John Deere, he's "colorblind" to brand and is collecting them all. Miller's collection ranges from 2 cylinder engines to the actual implements that they used to pull. Miller says he works with local artisans to refresh and refurbish any used pieces that he comes across. The collection has inspired not only tractor and equipment housing, but Miltrim says they also host local groups that want to play pickleball! Bob Bosold finds out about the collection.Two days of beautiful weather on the way for Wisconsin according to Stu Muck, but weather changes abruptly on Wednesday.Mark Renz is a professor and extension specialist, focusing in alfalfa and pasture weed management. Tuesday specialists like him will be gathered for the annual UW-Extension Forage and Cover Crop Field Day in Arlington. Kiley Allan talks to Renz about the wet spring this year that's allowed for weed issues to advance pretty quickly. Renz says scouting is key right now. He also notes herbicide carryover is becoming more problematic to top quality alfalfa management and keeping record of what herbicide goes where is key.Pam Jahnke visits with Rock County dairy producer, Kristin Metcalf, about how Wisconsin dairy celebrates National Ice Cream month! Metcalf says there are 49 licensed ice cream plants in Wisconsin, and every day cow we have can produce enough milk in a day to provide 3 gallons of ice cream. Fortunately, Wisconsinites love their ice cream. Metcal says in 2024, Wisconsin bought 74 million pints of ice cream and sherbert, that’s over 1.5 gallons per person in Wisconsin. Wisconsinites each eat an average of 17 pounds of ice cream a year! Paid for by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state budget is complete, but really not finished. Pam Jahnke finds out how crafting this state budget took a turn when the federal "Big Beautiful Bill" was being crafted at the same time. State Senator Pat Testin is vice chair of the Joint Finance Committee. He also serves as chair of the Senate Agriculture and Revenue Committee. He tells Jahnke that there were conversations or compromise throughout the statehouse, but there are items that are left to be dealt with.Some severe weather overnight in extreme southern Wisconsin gets the attention of Stu Muck. Weekend weather should be friendly for crowds at county fairs.Scouting is the tool of choice right now for Dean Ebert, product manager at Helena Agri's location in West Bend. Ebert says that they're pulling plant samples to see what plants want in this critical phase of growth. Paid for by Helena Agri.USDA has filed a lawsuit against the state of California alleging that their Proposition 12 requiring cage free egg production is unconstitutional. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins explained the details.In rural Wisconsin, residents can call 911 but may wait as much as an hour for emergency staff to respond. It's a dire situation that James Small with the Office of Rural Health is drawing attention to. A recent survey of fire chiefs statewide showed that 85% of rural fire departments depend entirely on volunteers. Small says there's also expense! Not just the staff, but also the equipment. Small says the average fire engine truck once cost around $400,000. Today he says that same rig can go over a million dollars in expense. That's a lot of money for rural communities to generate. Stephanie Hoff delivers the details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin crop fields have been largely free of major insect outbreaks so far this season, but entomologists warn that could change as heat and moisture levels rise. Krista Hamilton with the DATCP Pest Survey Program says the second half of summer brings a new set of insect threats. Scouting in late July and early August should focus on rootworm beetles, second-generation armyworms, and corn earworm flights. Soybean growers should keep a close eye on aphids, Japanese beetles, and other defoliators, as multiple pests may begin to peak at once. Japanese beetles, in particular, are drawn to emerging corn silks and can cause serious damage if left unchecked. Hamilton says feeding is typically concentrated in the first few rows of a field, making targeted treatment effective. For soybeans, aphids are just beginning to colonize and multiply. Weekly scouting is essential now, especially if aphid numbers approach the treatment threshold of 250 per plant. While armyworm activity is currently low, Hamilton advises keeping them on the radar as second-generation populations can spike later this month. Pictured: Japanese beetlesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Amy Radunz. a stocker cattle producer from Pierce County and Beef Cattle Technical Specialist for Purina. With decades of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the beef industry, Radunz has made a lasting impact both in and beyond Wisconsin. Her influence spans from state-level leadership to national representation. Radunz currently serves as President of the Wisconsin Beef Council andas Vice President for NCBA’s Region III Federation of State Beef Councils. Although no longerserving on the Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association Board or Committees, she continues tosupport the organization and now represents WCA on the Wisconsin Department ofAgriculture’s Export Advisory Council. As a representative on the Federation of State Beef Councils, Radunz explains the function of the group and how it's monitoring progress on checkoff dollars invested. Radunz was also recently presented with the Cattlemen of the Year award by the Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s a livestock sale next week, but it’s not your typical animals on the auction block. The federal government is hosting its regular wild horse and donkey auction, but this go around, there will be a pick-up location and adoption event here in Wisconsin. The Bureau of Land Management within the U.S. Department of the Interior puts on these Online Corral auctions. The sale starts this week. Winning bidders can pick up their animal in September at the Ozaukee County Fairgrounds. There will also be wild horses and donkeys up for adoption at that time. Jason Lutterman joins us from the National Wild Horse and Burro program with more details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to passing the farm down to the next generation, capital gains taxes can pack a punch. Farmland that's appreciated over decades could trigger a hefty tax bill if it's sold or transferred without the right planning. That’s why understanding capital gains is a key part of farm succession. Extension Farm Management Specialist Kelly Wilfert says agriculture welcomed a provision in the federal budget that spreads out capital gains payments. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The death tax, otherwise known as the estate or gift tax, kicks in when assets pass on after death. It can have big implications for family farms or small businesses trying to stay afloat for the next generation. Extension Specialist Kelly Wilfert joins us to break down how the tax works and why agriculture groups have been championing the adjustment Congress made in the new federal budget. Before the federal budget passed, individuals could gift up to $13.99 million in assets without triggering the 40 percent estate tax, meaning just 1.1 percent of farm households were affected without estate planning. That threshold was set to drop to $7 million in 2026, potentially impacting 4 percent of farms. However, Congress has now raised the exemption to $15 million per person. This is welcome news for agriculture as farm assets like land and equipment continue to rise in value.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brady Quam, vice president of the Lodi Agricultural Fair, has been involved with the fair since he was just a boy. He followed in his father's footsteps by being involved in the Fair Board. He says the fair is unique for a variety of reasons, mostly because it's free AND it's run entirely by volunteers. A trend he's witnessing is a drop in volunteers. This is challenging as the fair continues to grow. Popular events this year include: horse rides with draft horses, "view from a buddy seat," and goats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lori Ripp has been the secretary of the Lodi Agricultural Fair since 2013. She highlights popular events this week in the grandstand: rodeo, tractor/truck pull, and demolition derby. After the fairgrounds built new barns about 10 years ago, they have continued to see an increase in exhibitors and are using additional tents. New this year, they have a goat playground that was brought to life by the Lodi Agricultural Fair intern. One of the main things that Lori wanted to emphasize is community impact and involvement, including a collaboration with the Lodi Fire Department to give out and promote Roth ID tags -- identification tags that people can put on car seats of young children to help identify children if they end up in a car accident and are separated from the driver in case of emergency in the accident. Thanks to sponsors, they were able to hand out 500 Roth ID tags at the fair.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The heritage tractor display at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days offers a nostalgic journey through agricultural innovation. The show is Aug. 5-7 at Clinton Farms in Bear Creek. Committee members Gary and LuAnne Knuth tell Mid-West Farm Report that more than three dozen machines and implements will honor Wisconsin's farming heritage. Enthusiasts and newcomers alike can get up close to these vintage workhorses, each with its own story. Many owners will be on hand to share the history behind their tractors, Gary says.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin Office of Rural Health has produced a statewide report revealing that fire departments across Wisconsin, especially in rural areas, are facing serious challenges that threaten their ability to respond to emergencies. The report is based on contributions from 418 Fire Chiefs representing 52% of departments statewide. It highlights a growing crisis in staffing, funding, and training that could impact public safety if not addressed. EMS Outreach Program Manager James Small has the details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin cranberry crop is looking pretty good so far in 2025, but constant monitoring is necessary. Kiley Allan visits with Wisconsin's cranberry extension specialist, Allison Jonjak, about what we don't know about cranberries.Rain starts sneaking into Wisconsin today. Stu Muck explains the volumes we can expect and when.County fair season is in full swing with each offering its own unique history. Stephanie Hoff finds out how Jefferson County Fair is working to attract a new audience to mesh with its regular attendees. Program Manager Abby Schopen gives her a rundown on reasons to attend.The Mid-West Farm Report is still gathering stories from century and sesquicentennial farms across the state. Melanie Markhardt shares the story of how her great, great grandparents walked to Mineral Point, in Iowa County, to begin their farmstead.Katie Burgess, dairy analyst with EverAg, joins Pam Jahnke to talk about how weather's impacting overall dairy production. She's also following tariff's rolling out and how it could slow U.S. dairy from finding an international home.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The budget is not perfect, but no budget ever is. That simple statement sums up the bipartisan work that unfolded at the state capitol to craft Wisconsin's budget. Pam Jahnke talks with State Senator, Pat Testin, about why negotiations were different this time around, and what elements Wisconsin's rural and agricultural circles should be watching. Testin agrees that there's more work to be done, but also acknowledges and thanks colleagues for putting in the hours to wrap up the project. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin Farm Technology Days is Aug. 5-7 at Clinton Farms in Bear Creek. Ruth Trinrud is a dairy farmer near Waupaca. She’s heading up fundraising efforts for this year’s show – the dollars make it possible. Ruth tells Stephanie Hoff that people or businesses are invited to donate money or in-kind equipment, time, and materials. It also takes manpower to run Wisconsin Farm Technology Days – not just during the show itself, August 5-7, but also for set-up and take-down. Sue Aschliman is recruiting volunteers, and she needs 100 people per day. Get in touch with Ruth and Sue at https://www.wifarmtechdays.org/. Nice summer day on the way for Wisconsin after some surprise microbursts Tuesday. Stu Muck gives us the report. Lots of estate sales that are being added to the books at Steffes Auction. Ashley Huhn tells Pam Jahnke that's not unusual at this time of the year. He says they are often called in as fuduciary advisors in those situations. Paid for by Steffes Group. U.S. Ag Secretary, Brooke Rollins has been added as a member to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS). This is a seven-part plan for addressing agricultural security and protecting national security. Sam Kieffer, vice president of public policy at the American Farm Bureau Federation explains why its a key move. Particularly because this group reviews potential sales of partnerships of food companies merging or being acquired by international companies. July is National Ice Cream month and Cedar Crest Ice Cream has a great way to celebrate. Stephanie Hoff shares the story of how Cedar Crest has partnered with Wisconsin 4-H clubs statewide to create new flavors each summer. This year, Shannon Simon with Cedar Crest says you'll be enjoying "Demo Derby" flavored ice cream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s National Ice Cream Month! You can make it your mission to try a new ice cream flavor thanks to the partnership between Wisconsin 4-H and Cedar Crest Ice Cream. The Cedar Crest Ice Cream Flavor Creation Contest encourages 4-H groups to work together to develop and name a flavor. You can find the winner at a parlor near you today. Shannon Simon is the marketing manager for Cedar Crest Ice Cream – a Wisconsin-based company serving parlors and retailers across the Midwest. She raves about this year's winner, "Demo Derby" created by Sunnyside Climbers 4-H. It includes chocolate ice cream dented with chocolate cookie crumbles, smashed M&M’s, and swirled with chocolate fudge, and it will be available in ice cream parlors and scoop shops until supplies run out.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the latest episode of our specialty crop series with the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association, we visit Blue Ridge Growers in Troy, Wisconsin. Since u-pick blueberries opened July 4, people have been flocking to the farm to pick from over 800 bushes representing six unique varieties of berries. Jill Berke has been hosting people on the farm for decades. This year, she says the crop is coming along great, as is demand from consumers to visit a farm. Blue Ridge Growers is one of the farms on the upcoming Apple River Farm Tour on July 12. For details, visit: https://appleriverfarmtour.com/ The blueberry harvest is expected to continue through mid-August. The Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association is a great resource for you to find a blueberry grower near you and to stay up to date on events happening in your area, like the Apple River Farm Tour on July 12. Jill Berke says that through the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association, you can find a network of specialty crop farmers to help you start or expand your own farm venture. This podcast series is brought to you courtesy of Specialty Crop Block Grant 23-10. Learn more about how to engage with Wisconsin's agricultural tourism industry at https://gowiagtourism.com/.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you convince a consumer to buy your product if they never come near it in the grocery store. That was the dilemma facing Lonnie Holthaus of Milkhaus Dairy in Fennimore. Through investigation inspired by his college son, they found out that their herd was producing A2 protein milk. A2 protein milk is a product that lactose intolerant people can enjoy without side effects. Those are the same people that have no reason to go near the dairy showcase, however. Holthaus started developing small batches of cheese using their A2 protein milk, and it was a success. Now Holthaus is distributing product through several major retailers in the Midwest, and continuing to preach the importance of knowing what A2 protein milk can bring to dairy sensitive consumers. Pam Jahnke gets the story from Holthaus. A recent story is drawing new attention to the work of the USDA Beagle Brigade after an Egyptian national kicked one of the dogs in D.C.. This group of highly trained dogs sniffs out contraband before it enters the U.S. agriculture space and threatens producers. Ben Jarboe talks to Carrie Thomas, Associate Deputy Director with USDA APHIS. She explains what the dogs do, how they're trained, and why they're so efficient at what they do.Wisconsin farmers have little to complain about when it comes to their crops so far. Pam Jahnke presents the latest updates from the Wisconsin Ag Statistical Service on field ratings from across the state.John Heinberg, market analyst with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says that's part of what's driving markets lower. Great crops everywhere! He talks with Pam Jahnke about the anxiety building over international business and overall business slowdown.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

July is National Ice Cream Month, and while we enjoy those frosty treats, let's remember the hard working dairy farm families that help make it possible. One of which is Kristen Metcalf, District 25 Director that sits on the board of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. She represents producers in Green, Rock and Walworth county and operates a dairy herself. Metcalf says that although Wisconsin may be known for its cheese, ice cream is another incredibly popular dairy product that consumers and retailers look to the state for. "Thanks to the incredible milk from nearly 5,500 dairy farms across Wisconsin, more than 46 million gallons of ice cream are produced in Wisconsin annually. There are over 108 million buyers of Ice Cream and sherbet across the U.S., with an 83% household penetration. An average buyer (consumer) purchases 45 pints each year!" That turns into major milk volume for the state's dairy producers too! Metcalf notes that it takes about 2–3 gallons of milk to make just one gallon of ice cream. She says just ONE Wisconsin dairy cows can actually produce enough milk in a single day to make three gallons of ice cream. Wisconsinites each enjoy an average of 17 pounds of ice cream a year! Metcalf says that Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin is happy to be partnering again with the Alice in Dairyland program to amplify all things dairy. In her role, Alice in Dairyland hosts a statewide spotlight on ice cream, appearing in radio, TV, and digital segments across Wisconsin. On average, Alice helps us earn over $18,000 worth of media coverage and reaches close to 800,000 consumers through at least 20 scheduled interviews. That’s huge visibility for our farmers and our state’s dairy industry. Wanna find out more about National Ice Cream month and Wisconsin's dairy industry? Find the details here!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The transition is complete. Wisconsin's new Alice in Dairyland is on the job with her first official day happening today. Jill Welke finds out what hopes and aspirations Sarah Hagenow is holding for the position as the 78th Alice. Sarah just graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in agricultural and food business management and a minor in international agriculture. Hagenow’s youth was characterized by involvement in 4-H and FFA, which spurred her to join the Gopher Dairy Club, Agricultural Business Club, Agricultural Mentor Program, and the dairy cattle judging team at college. Hagenow has held internships with Heatherstone Enterprises, Viking Dairy Company, the Minnesota State Senate, and the Animal Agriculture Alliance. The heat has broken for Wisconsin this week. Stu Muck says there is some rain on the way.The "Big Beautiful Bill" is complete and signed. Tyler Wenzlaff is the National Affairs Coordinator for the WI Farm Bureau Federation. He says there's a lot of elements in that bill that agriculture needs to notice. Raising reference prices, improvements to DMC, livestock disaster assistance, conservation dollars, and trade development is already in this package which makes Wenzlaff wonder if this is the path a new Farm Bill will take. Stephanie Hoff gets the available details. While the federal bill gains some funding for important agriculture programs, there are still groups and farms that were promised federal grants that are waiting. One group that saw their federal funding shaved severely is Glacierland Grazing. Kiley Allan finds out about the staff losses and project goals that have had to adjust from Kelsey Wallisch is the Regenerative Agriculture Specialist. She walks us through the changes they've seen and tells us how resilience has gotten them through the challenges. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chris showed at the fair himself many years ago and now helps at the fair volunteering and on the board. He notes that because they have a demand in exhibitors in livestock, they have to put up more tents which he also states is a good problem to have. The infrastructure includes new barns to accommodate those things. Chris also talks about the disconnect with the city board as well and how that has changed and now is working to improve Mandt Park and continue to make those improvements and host events. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He says numbers are always pretty steady for the fair but noticed that the smaller projects are decreasing over the years. Which he hopes to help improve as times goes on as they have more improvements and expansions to the facilities. He is happy to give an update that the City has been working with Stoughton Fair very well compared to other years and wanting to do away with the fair. Now they have new paved roads and are hoping to host bigger cattle shows and other events and construction and improvements continue. This all in accordance with celebrating 100 years next year and new announcements coming with that celebration once the fair concludes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"Naturally Wisconsin" is boosting the market for Wisconsin's organic products, explains Executive Director Jamie Valenti-Jordan. An 85-degree and sunny summer day could be used to describe the perfect day to go on the lake, or the ideal growing conditions for a cranberry plant. Cranberry Outreach Extension Specialist Allison Jonjak has an update. Gov.Tony Evers signed the state budget. Assembly Agriculture Chair Travis Tranel says the compromise is a win for agriculture and rural Wisconsin. Participation is steady for Stoughton Fair, says Director Joe Conant. He's hopeful for a boost in exhibitors and attendance after improvements to roads and buildings. Construction will lead up to next year's 100-year fair anniversary. Lonnie Holthaus of Milkhaus Dairy produces A2 protein milk -- it doesn't cause the physical reaction that many people experience who are lactose intolerant. He's on a mission to spread the word about A2 milk and cheese! Ever.Ag Dairy Analyst Cody Koster says while the heat wave is slashing Midwest milk production, U.S. cheese prices remain a global bargain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Regional Crops and Soils Educator Anastasia Kurth breaks down what our recent weather has meant to our crops. The corn and soybeans were both behind in growing degree days, and the heat helped to accelerate their growth. While the heat was helpful, the amount of moisture was problematic. A dry out will be important for disease prevention.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An 85 degree summer day with a sunny, cloudless sky could be used to describe the perfect day to go on the lake, or the ideal growing conditions for a cranberry plant. Cranberry Outreach Extension Specialist Allison Jonjak gave us a look at how the cranberry crop is shaping up.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you routinely get a bellyache or worse after encountering dairy, then the dairy showcase is the last place you're visiting at the store. That's a problem for Lonnie Holthaus, dairy farmer from Fennimore. Holthaus and his family own and operate Milkhaus Dairy. They have genetically tested their herd of cows to focus on genetics that produce A2 protein milk. That, by definition, is milk that comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 beta-casein protein, while conventional milk often contains a mix of A1 and A2. A2 protein milk and dairy products don't cause the physical reaction that many people experience who are lactose intolerant. But how do you educate them and the retailers that serve them?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Helen Osborn-Senatus is the director of operations at The River Food Pantry, which serves up to 4,000 people per week across Dane County. The demand is growing, and so the pantry is expanding. Down the block, The River Food Pantry is building a new warehouse and community center. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Becker doesn't come from an agriculture background but it doesn't mean he can't figure out how to help agriculture. Becker owns and operates Penguin Drones, in McFarland. He's using his computer science background to program this technology for precision and efficiency. Becker says when large ground rigs are hampered by wet fields, he can come in and supply responsible weed and insect control that reduces soil compaction and still delivers results. Becker says he's always interested in looking at new ways to use the technology including nutrient application, and forestry management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wrestling, rodeos, and animal shows, oh my! There’s no place like fair! That’s the theme of the 2025 Jefferson County Fair, July 9-13. This year, the entertainment focuses on families, exhibitors, and lifting the community. Program Manager Abby Schopen says attendance is projected to be higher even without a grandstand headliner with this new focus. Fairgoers can look forward to local entertainment, thousands of animals, and expanded fair staples, including two rodeo nights. Learn more at jcofair.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers are sharing their voice on state policy and the lack of a national farm bill. Jill Welke visits with Brad Olson, president of the WI Farm Bureau Federation, about a group of young farmers that went to Washington, D.C. to make their points on policy. Another hot, sticky day on the way for Wisconsin. Pam Jahnke gives a rundown on the forecast and also shares crop tips from Anastasia Kurth, UW-Extension Regional Crops and Soils Educator. She says the heat and humidity tax the energy of a plant, at the same time that insect populations are burgeoning. What if dairy could help you keep a slim waistline? Karen Antunes is a PhD candidate in the nutritional science department at UW-Madison. She’s working with the UW Dairy Innovation Hub to figure out if colostrum (the first form of milk produced by cows after calving) can restore gut health after taking antibiotics to reduce obesity later in life. She explains that antibiotics kill bad bacteria -- that's why humans take it when they're sick. But antibiotics also kill good bacteria -- microbes that can be tougher for children and young people to gain back leading to an increased risk for obesity. In mice, colostrum successfully brought back good bacteria, and those mice gained less fat when eating a "Western diet." It's just the beginning, as she explains to Stephanie Hoff. Wisconsin crops aren't improving just because of the heat and rain. Pam Jahnke highlights some of the weekly notes from the state crop progress report. She also notes displeasure from the WI Farmers Union in the lack of funding support for the WI Local Food Purchase Assistance Program. Federal funding for that program will be exhausted by August, and the Joint Finance Committee has opted not to include it in their current state budget. Monday's USDA acreage report showed farmers planting less soybeans and more corn this year. Numbers didn't really surprise the marketplace according to John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend. He joins Pam Jahnke to break it down. Also developing, USDA allowing live cattle and other livestock back into the U.S. The border restrictions were connected with stopping movement of the New World Screwworm. Heinberg says it's going to be closely monitored, but it will be opened.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's been just over a month since a series of EF2 tornadoes raced across southeast Wisconsin. While the storms may have passed, for the farms that were impacted the lingering damage has changed lives. Pam Jahnke visits with Dr. Monty Belmar from Waupun Vet Services. Belmar was one of the veterinarians that responded to injured animals at a Juneau area dairy that was struck by a tornado. Aside from evaluating injured animals and responding immediately, there's the question of where the displaced animals will go. How will they be fed, watered and milked? While he's lived through events like this in the past, Belmar says each situation brings new challenges that don't end after the debris is picked up.Hot. That describes the weather coming to Wisconsin. Stu Muck explains what taking care of yourself and your animals will be a priority this weekend. When you hear about schools recruiting, you probably think about sports. Now agriculture schools are recruiting too! Stephanie Hoff was a part of the group when nearly 30 students from seven rural Wisconsin towns celebrated the UW-Madison College of Agricultural & Life Sciences Rural Scholars Program. These high-schoolers spent the last four days getting acquainted with the agriculture campus and college life, touring facilities like ag engineering, food science, and horticulture. They also stayed in college dorm rooms. Before the program, most of these seniors and juniors didn’t think a four-year university was in the cards for them. Now, they’ll be applying to UW-Madison. Rural Scholars Program Director Tanya Cutsforth says the effort, funded by USDA, is to reach out to rural students with the message that: college is possible for you. It's a little early to be very confident about where yields will be by the harvest, but taking a chance could pay off. Pam Jahnke chats with UW-Extension Soybean Specialist, Dr. Shawn Conley, about the 2025 WI Soybean Yield Contest. The contest, sponsored by the WI Soybean Marketing Board, recognizes growers with the best yield across the state. Conley also emphasizes that the information gained through the yield contest turns into guidance for future soybean research. Paid for by the WI Soybean Marketing Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin played host to the summer conference for the National Farmers Union. Held a their new state headquarters in Chippewa Falls, Bob Bosold got a chance to visit with NFU President, Rod Larew, as well as WFU President, Darren VonRuden. There's still a lot of anxiety about getting a Farm Bill completed in Washington, D.C. and questions surrounding the "Big Beautiful Bill" and what it could be to farms and agribusinesses. Illinois stands poised to break records this year when it comes to tornadoes! Pam Jahnke shares the story from Illinois State Climatologist, Trent Ford. Today is the deadline for the state legislature to wrap up work on the budget. Representative Travis Tranel, the chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee is watching a lot of moving parts. He explains to Stephanie Hoff that state budget negotiations or debates continue to take center stage on Capitol Hill. But there are also bills moving through the agriculture committee to watch. We start with the nutrient loss reduction program, a bill that Representative Tranel is cosponsoring. The Mid-West Farm Report is continuing to gather stories from families statewide that will be honored during the Wisconsin State Fair as Century or Sesquicentennial honorees. Aubrey Schlimgen chats with Bob Smith from Fond du Lac County, one of the sesquicentennial farms that will be honored. Bob and his brother were the youngest of the 4 brothers and did most of the work on the farm. When they started their work, they cleaned up a lot of the barns on their farm and built some buildings. 100ft off of the one barn to be exact. Bob and his Wife have three kids. His other two brothers got into education and even taught at the University of Dubuque. In 1980 they had experienced loss with a barn fire. Bob still farms to this day, no more cows but still with crops. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if dairy could help you keep a slim waistline? Karen Antunes is a PhD candidate in the nutritional science department at UW-Madison. She’s working with the UW Dairy Innovation Hub to figure out if colostrum -- the first form of milk produced by cows after calving -- can restore gut health after taking antibiotics to reduce obesity later in life. It worked in mice, but now more research needs to be done in humans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re checking in on how the weather is treating wine grapes. David Korb is the owner, vintner and grape grower at Drumlin Ridge Winery in Waunakee, just North of Madison. Dave is hoping for dry weather these next few months to keep the wine grapes healthy. He's heard of a few issues statewide with winter kill and wind damage.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Soggy or dry? Breezy or muggy? We'll get it all this weekend, according to Stu Muck during the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recent years broadband projects have been spreading through rural areas in Wisconsin to make sure everyone is connected. And some of these benefits are not just personal. Dave Daniels a part owner of Mighty Grand Dairy LLC in Kenosha County, shares how the inclusion of broadband on their farm has made life easier and even allowed them to get more advanced equipment. He says that the use of the broadband has allowed them to implement trackers on their cows that work like "Fit Bits." He also says that it has proven to be more cost efficient. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Daniels, part-owner of Mighty Grand Dairy in Kenosha County, tells Ben Jarboe about how broadband infrastructure and high-speed internet have allowed him to further the operation with new technology. Soggy or dry? Breezy or muggy? We'll get it all this weekend, according to Stu Muck during the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Forecast. The latest Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation Marketbasket Survey shows Wisconsinites may be spending a bit more this year for their Fourth of July barbecues. Ben Jarboe catches up with WFBF's Cassie Sonnentag. She says protein, such as ground beef and eggs, is driving the price. Heidi Knuth was born into the hobby of collecting John Deere equipment. She takes pride in pursuing a passion her parents instilled in her. Kiley Allan reports. Today, we head to Monroe, where Brian and Heidi Kent run Heidi’s Happy Acres. Brian says the cool weather to start the growing season wasn't ideal for sweet corn -- the soil wasn't warm enough, and the corn came up slowly and unevenly. He had to do some replanting. Now, the corn is looking healthier after the heat wave that came through. He grows white and purple varieties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Assembly Ag Chair Travis Tranel visits with Mid-West Farm Report to outline state budget negotiations, recent wins from the committee, and what's on the to-do list for the rest of the year.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.