MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

The CoCoRaHS Rain Gauge Rally is under way and it has sparked groups across the state to join in. One of these groups is the Green Lake Association. Jim Goyette is a member of the group and he says it is a great way to know what is happening in your own back yard.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff and Heather Hunt, outreach program manager with the UW-Madison Meat Science & Animal Biologics Discovery Program, discuss what it takes to judge specialty meats. At the Wisconsin Specialty Meat Championships and the Wisconsin State Fair Meat Products Contest, judges evaluate everything from traditional snack sticks to old-world, artisanal sausage. Heather tells us how judges maintain their palates and why supporting local processors is a lifelong passion for those in the field.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff and U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety & Inspection Service Administrator Justin Ransom explore the reorganization within the USDA aimed at decentralizing leadership and empowering rural meat processors. Ransom discusses the potential redrawing of "small" and "very small" business designations and how these changes could unlock new federal resources for local entrepreneurs. In addition, there are new overtime fee reductions for processors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some Wisconsin farm workers are already active! Stephanie Hoff finds out how the honeybee population has mobilized from Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt, WI State Apiarist and Apiary Program Coordinator. During mid-to-late February, nearly every migratory commercial bee colony in the U.S. is located in California for almond pollination. Beyond the risk of "bee spills" (truck accidents), moving bees long distances can lead to hive suffocation or overheating due to improper ventilation. Placing bees in single-crop environments, like almond groves, can lead to nutritional deficiencies because the bees lack a diverse range of pollen and nectar. Much like wood ticks carry Lyme disease to humans, Varroa mites can vector over 20 different viruses to honeybees, including the virulent deformed wing virus. Exposure to pesticides—common near agriculture or golf courses—can lower a bee's immune system, making them more susceptible to viruses and mites. While small flowers are great, "big blooms" from trees and shrubs are particularly beneficial for honeybees because they provide a large amount of resources in one location. Wisconsin weather woes continue with more rain in the forecast, and cooling temperatures. Stu Muck explains that there's even a chance of snow for the weekend in some areas of the state. Gardeners are just as frustrated as farmers about the weather delay's we're working through. Kiley Allan talks with Scott Trudell who staffs the Plant Desk for The Bruce Company. While spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils are hardy enough to survive fluctuating temperatures, deciduous shrubs (such as lilacs and crab apples) are more vulnerable. If temperatures drop below the mid-20s, these should be covered with blankets or row covers to prevent damage. Trudell says greenhouse inventory is arriving earlier than usual this year, featuring cold-tolerant flowers like pansies, sweet alyssum, and the increasingly popular hellebores. Be patient. That's the advice Dr. Shawn Conley, UW-Madison Extension Soybean Specialist is sharing with farmers. Conley tells Pam Jahnke that with the high input costs operators are facing this year, the last thing you'll want to do is "mud in" the crop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There may not be any seed in the ground (yet), but Wisconsin is looking at potentially more acres for soybeans this year! Dr. Shawn Conley, UW-Madison Extension Soybean Specialist says it's a good time to consider entering the 2026 WI Soybean Marketing Board's Yield Contest. Planning where you want to plant your contest field, the variety you select, seed treatment, fertilizer - are all in the works. That's ideal if you want to maximize your yield potential. Conley says every year there's more growers from different areas of the state that engage in the contest. Of course there's cash prizes for the top winners in various categories, but there's also a treasure trove of information everyone wins. He says in 2025 there were 3 growers that broke the 100 bushel to the acre average. Sharing that information is another magnet for growers. The contest is funded by farmer checkoff dollars through the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Madison, Wisconsin becomes the center of the equine world. The Midwest Horse Fair returns to the Alliant Energy Center this weekend. Bob Bosold visits with executive director, Terri Giannetti, talks about the varied horse breeds that will be featured, and some of the hands-on learning opportunities they'll offer. Giannetti says they're using every available inch of space on the grounds for the show. Wisconsin's picking itself up after a nasty set of storms overnight. Stu Muck recaps some of the reports, and tells us about more wet weather on the way. It's a Wyffels Wednesday with Brent Tharp, technical products manager for Wyffels Hybrids. Ben Jarboe discusses planting progress so far in the corn belt, and the wet conditions being faced. Tharp says patience will pay off. He's advising not to make any missteps this spring given the cost of seed and fertilizer. Paid for by Wyffels Hybrids. The American Farm Bureau has released a nationwide survey on fertilizer prices and how farms are dealing with the expense. Pam Jahnke reports that 70% of the more than 5,000 respondents said they won't be able to afford all the fertilizer they need for this growing season. The Wisconsin Beef Council sponsored the Best Beef Entree award at the recent Wisconsin ProStart Invitational, inspiring the next generation of culinary leaders. Brady Weiland, a beef and dairy producer from Columbus, tells Stephanie Hoff about the experience as a judge, and tasting the creative ways that students prepared decadent beef dishes. He also gives us a firsthand look at why representing the dairy perspective on the state checkoff board is vital for the entire beef industry's success. Paid for by Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pictured: Steve with his family. During Steve Van Lannen's 30 plus years in the meat industry, he ran packing companies in six states but spent most of his career in Wisconsin, most recently as President and Chief Operating Officer of American Foods Group. Through innovation and forward thinking his leadership brought growth and diversity to the companies he worked for. An advocate of education, he mentored employees and students at the high school and collegiate level. He tells Stephanie Hoff about the journey to the Wisconsin Meat Industry Hall of Fame.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pictured: Dan Schaefer with his vitamin E research colleagues Kris Scheller-Stewart and Quingping Liu. Dr. Dan Schaefer joined the UW-Madison Animal Science Department in 1981 as an assistant professor. During his nearly 40-year career with the university, he led ground-breaking research in feeding Holstein steers. His work in supplementing vitamin E in rations to improve meat color is still used today. He would go on to help construct the Meat Science and Animal Biologics Discovery building on campus. Dan sits down with Stephanie Hoff to tell his story leading to being a 2026 inductee into the Wisconsin Meat Industry Hall of Fame.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 45th anniversary of the Midwest Horse Fair is slated to bring in a record number of horses. This year, over 800 horses from 45 different breed and discipline groups are expected to make their way to the Alliant Energy Center. Teri Giannetti is the Executive Director for the event and tells us the agenda has something for everyone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's a Wyffels Wednesday and Brent Tharp a technical products manager with the company joins Ben Jarboe to talk about what the current planting looks like. He gives insight into their planting progress map and what their new products for the year are. If you have questions make sure to visit wyffels.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Wisconsin farmers, researchers, and residents, changes in the weather carry a lot of weight. Today, we’re sitting down to discuss the unpredictable shift from spring snowstorms to record rainfall, and how the Wisconsin State Climatology Office is hitting the road to hear directly from you. Amanda Latham, climate outreach specialist with the Wisconsin State Climatology Office, tells Stephanie Hoff about Wisconsin’s role as a powerhouse in climate science. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the spring storms we’ve been experiencing, it’s more important than ever to offer precise measurements of precipitation from your own backyard. David Paulson is a volunteer for the National Weather Service who turned a casual interest in local weather into a daily mission. David first heard about CoCoRaHS through a Water Action Volunteers newsletter. At first, he thought his neighborhood was already covered, until he noticed a gap in the data. So, David stepped up, bringing his experience from river monitoring straight to his rain gauge. But it’s not just rain! CoCoRaHS stands for the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network. David tells Stephanie Hoff how he collects hail data.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last night's thunderstorms provided some impressive rainfall totals and fierce winds. Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck says we can expect more precipitation throughout the week. Bob Bosold takes us on a trip to Arizona to learn about olives and olive oil. Different olives produce different types and qualities of oil. The oil you choose depends greatly on use and taste. Bob learns more. Pam catches up with Randy Kath and our friends at the Steffes Group. This week's rain has the potential to play a role in filling manure pits, and will need to be emptied before we know it. As Wisconsin farms get larger and shift toward liquid manure systems, the number of injuries and deaths related to toxic gas exposure is trending higher. Stephanie Hoff and Extension Specialist Becky Larson talk manure gas safety musts. Why have corn and wheat been feeling pressure, and are soybeans next? John Heinberg walks us through the elements to pay attention to.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin dairy farmer Virgil Haag joins Stephanie Hoff to discuss the powerful partnership between the state’s producers and the Alice in Dairyland program. Explore how this ambassadorship uses high-reach media campaigns and personal community engagement to build lasting consumer trust. Sharing the story of Wisconsin’s dairy heritage today ensures a thriving industry for the next generation. Learn more at wisconsindairy.org. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cattle industry is currently navigating a period of historic highs and complex challenges, Jeff Swenson tells Stephanie Hoff. Swenson, meat and livestock specialist with the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, says with cattle supplies at their tightest levels in years, the balance of power has shifted toward the producers, though high input costs continue to squeeze profit margins across the board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial Intelligence is now involved in our everyday lives and this includes on the dairy farm. Ben Jarboe learns more about where you can find it on the farm with Jeffery Bewley. He is the executive director of genetics and innovation for Holstein Association USA. He says it is exciting, but worried that people will forget the backbone of dairy farming if they rely too much on AI. It was a wet Sunday and that looks to continue this week according to ag meteorologist Stu Muck.Warmer weather brings on fresh produce that everybody enjoys throughout the summer, but how do they make sure it is safe for human consumption? Kiley Allan chats with Kristin Krokowski, a commercial horticulture educator with UW-Madison, to find out what they look for to keep our food safe.June Dairy Month is right around the corner and it means there is a lot of work to be done by the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. Pam Jahnke chats with Mitch Kappelman to get the details on what it takes to spread the word of dairy throughout the month.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Spring has sprung which means boats will be comin out on the water. John Sinclair joins host Ben Jarboe to give a reminder on boating laws and considerations. Davion Freeman joins the show to talk early spring time fishing and favorite baits to use when the fish are lethargic. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tucker Brown has taken to social media to connect producer and consumer as an influencer. Jill Welke chats with him to learn more about his ranch, the R.A. Brown Ranch, in Texas. He says he has been able to blend his two passions together with social media and agriculture. The morning started off wet on this Friday with rainfall reports coming in, Ag meteorologist Stu Muck says that it may not be done for the weekend. Nothing says spring like rain, blooming flowers, and the reappearance of bees. Stephanie Hoff talks with Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt, the Wisconsin State Apiarist, to see where these bees went on vacation for the winter and how their health has held up. Another way you know it is spring is when farmers take to the fields to get their crops in, but they're not the only ones planting. Kiley Allan has a conversation with Avery Drew and Stacie Kopenhafer about their experience running a test plot through Southwest Tech.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Springtime means there's many raindrops falling on our heads, but that's no reason to cry! Instead, it's a great reason to sign up for CoCoRaHS. COCORAHS is the acronym that stands for Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network. It’s a network of volunteers who work together to measure precipitation of all forms across the nation. Richard Janke has been contributing to the network for nearly 5 years from his home in Neshkoro.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you enjoy comparing rainfall totals with your friends at the local coop? Do you have a trick knee that can predict a storm perfectly? The National weather service is interested in hearing about the totals you found in your rain gauge. COCORAHS is the acronym that stands for Community Collaborative Rain Hail and Snow Network. It’s a network of volunteers who work together to measure precipitation of all forms across the nation. Karen Merlau has been participating for 14 years and says she enjoys citizen science projects.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Offering tours for over 20 years, Ripp’s Dairy Valley is no stranger to welcoming some of the youngest dairy enthusiasts to the farm. This week, the family is opening their barns to kindergarten classes. On just the first day alone, they’ll have approximately 100 students join them to learn about the life of a dairy cow. I had the opportunity to join the students for lunch, and, after pouring countless glasses of milk, I talked to Chuck Ripp. He’s an owner at Ripp’s Dairy Valley. He tells us what it’s like to host the students.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NaCole Johnson, global talent acquisition specialist at URUS, and Stephanie Hoff discuss the shift toward hiring for passion, adaptability, and data fluency. Hands-on internships are preparing Gen Z to tackle global challenges in sustainability and food security. A mission-driven mindset is the new gold standard for the next generation of agricultural leaders. Stu Muck is forecasting a favorable day of sunshine and mild weather, but that will turn around tonight. How do you keep 100 kindergarteners entertained and engaged on the dairy farm? Chuck Ripp tells Kiley Allan about the three-day educational event they're hosting this week for the youngsters. Clean fuels produced by rural soybeans are making urban air easier to breathe, reports Clean Fuels Alliance America. Describe dairy markets in one word... how about volatile? Recent events, including the global dairy trade, are signals for producers to bring in partners. That includes dairy analysts like Cody Koster at EverAg. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Wisconsin landscape finally begins to wake up, our local beekeepers are gearing up for a busy season ahead. From hives returning home after a winter down south to the first blooms of spring, there is a lot to track in the world of pollinators. Brooke Nikkila-Sommerfeldt is the Wisconsin State Apiarist and Apiary Program Coordinator. She tells Stephanie Hoff that the state offers free statewide inspections and diagnostics to help keep colonies thriving. Just reach out to the Wisconsin Apiary Program. Brooke also tells us what she knows about bee movement this time of year, especially for honeybees coming back to Wisconsin after working the winter elsewhere.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From the northern end of the world's longest barn, Bob Bosold shares tales from his trails out West, including what it takes to manage the mule concession in the Grand Canyon. John Berry says these mules not only bring people to the bottom of the canyon, but also provisions for the restaurant and cabin accommodations -- there's really no other way to get down there!Although it may be dreary this morning across Wisconsin, the sun is supposed to peek through this afternoon, according to the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update.Are you a commercial or hobbyist grape grower? Plant pathologist Leslie Holland tells Ben Jarboe about the critical need for Wisconsin grape growers to use strategic fungicides with precise timing to combat a resurgence of black rot and downy mildew.Farm Director Pam Jahnke catches up with The Steffes Group before a big equipment auction today, brought to you courtesy of The Steffes Group.Alice in Dairyland Sarah Hagenow explains to Kiley Allan how Marathon County’s unique soil and climate produce high-quality ginseng with a potent concentration of ginsenosides. This root is increasingly prized for its distinct bittersweet flavor and immune-boosting properties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It won't be long before Wisconsin roadways will have some large, heavy equipment heading to the fields. Safety has to be a paramount concern for the farmers operating it, and the drivers sharing the road. Kiley Allan gets a refresher course on what to remember from WI State Trooper. Warmer temps are coming to Wisconsin from Canada. Stu Muck says there's still a chance for rain in the forecast, and for people farther north - possible snow again. Farmers are preparing to head to the fields for spring planting. Once that seed is out of the bag and in the ground - they're committed. But what happens if their agribusiness partner, which was going to buy that product closes or goes bankrupt before the harvest? What's their recourse? Stephanie Hoff talks with Randy Fleishauer of Plover River Farms, Stevens Point. He currently sits on DATCP's Producer Security Council which is designed to deal with that dilemma, if it happens. Fleishauer says losing a specialty crop processor disrupts the essential rotation needed for potatoes; without a "place to go" with secondary crops, growers cannot maintain soil health or yield. Unlike row crops like corn or soybeans, canning crops are "timely" and cannot be stored on-farm. If a processor can’t take them, the crop is often disced back into the dirt or sold as cattle feed. And potato growers have limited on-farm storage. A shift in crop types forces local fertilizer and equipment suppliers to pivot their entire inventory, often driving up costs for the grower due to last-minute supply chain demands. Fleishauer site the Del Monte bankruptcy last summer as an example of when this council comes into play. The first crop progress report for 2026 was released on Monday. Pam Jahnke reports that moisture situations look adequate statewide. Only about 2% of oats have been seeded so far. Corn and soybeans have decoupled from the Iran War in the marketplace. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says that's lessened the swings on prices. Triggers are still out there with crude oil until June, when there appears to be a "break". Heinberg also notes that live cattle prices continue to climb. Drier conditions in the west put critical grazing land in question for many cow/calf operators.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jan Prins a dairy broker from EverAg talks about how National and International happenings are affecting the markets. He says the Iran conflict is affecting butter the most due to inability to transport products through the Strait of Hormuz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Good Friday may have acted as a distraction from policy attention at the governor's mansion. Wisconsin Senator Pat Testin, chair of the Senate Agriculture and Revenue Committee, says that Good Friday was a bad day for livestock operations in the state. Governor Tony Evers decided to veto legislation that would have put a freeze on proposed fee increases proposed by the WI Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. These annual fee increases range from 205% to nearly 1,700%! The livestock, marketing and trucking industry had collaborated with DATCP to find some common ground, but it wasn't enough for the governor. On a positive note, it looks like there will be some state funding made available for farmers, land owners, and municipalities dealing with the fallout of PFAS contamination. Testin says many of the impacted parties may have been unaware of the PFAS risk when practices were put into place. This money would be targeted at clean up of impacted areas. At this moment, the PFAS funding mechanism is waiting for the governor's signature.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're from Wisconsin, chances are good that you've enjoyed a June Dairy celebration somewhere in the course of your life. Organizing the volunteers and all the educational opportunities is one mission supported by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. Mitch Kappelman is a fifth generation dairy operator that sits on DFW's board of directors. He represents dairy operators in Manitowoc and Calumet counties. Kappelman reminds us that there's more to June Dairy month then just the food and friendship. These face-to-face events allow Wisconsin dairy to tell its story. Kappelman says the care of our dairy animals and the dedication to preserving land and water resources is something he does everyday. However, sharing that story with consumers isn't something that happens everyday. Kappleman notes that 99% of all Wisconsin dairy operations are family owned and operated. That's not a story that consumers pick up just driving by. The work farms do with conservation practices to keep soil in place and maintain water quality are also stories not seen from a distance. That's why Kappelman believes these June Dairy experiences are one way to have meaningful exchanges with visitors. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You can travel thousands of miles and see different terrain, but still find yourself in a conversation that feels like "home". Pam Jahnke shares some comments from Rhys Lougher from Ty Tanglwyst dairy in Wales. Lougher, his brother and father operate the dairy. It includes not only providing milk to the general public, but also top end genetics to area dairy farms that may be rebuilding after suffering losses from bovine tuberculosis. Ty Tanglwyst was one of the agriculture stops on the recent farm tour of England and Wales. We've got some hit and miss chances at sunshine this week. Stu Muck says today the wind will catch your attention. Turning tragedy into something positive isn't easy. Carol Anderson, program director with Rural Minds, says that's how their organization started. After losing a family member in a farm suicide the family decided to focus energy on mental health challenges in rural communities. Ben Jarboe visits with Anderson about the stigma they're trying to break in rural communities surrounding mental health. Anderson says many people raised on a farm or in a rural community are taught to keep mental health challenges to themselves. They're trying to break that stigma without duplicating services already being provided by others. Wisconsin DNR will be accepting applications for the next class of conservation wardens. Pam Jahnke also reports that two industry leaders will be inducted into the WI Meat Industry Hall of Fame this Thursday. Dr. Dan Schafer and Steve Van Laanen. Spring planting is just around the corner and so is lawn and garden work. Knowing what weather you'll be dealing with is critical. That weather forecast you depend on, depends on you! Kiley Allan visits with Richard Janke a Citizen Scientist that volunteers with the National Weather Service as a rainfall reporter. He explains that he's been doing this for the past 4 years. Janke says the process is simple and he finds reward in how his information plays a role in the bigger forecast that NWS releases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hog production in the Nevada desert. Really? Yep! Bob Bosold's on the trail of a hog operation outside of Las Vegas that actually uses some of the food remnants from the hotel/casino industry to feed its hogs. Rain, rain and more rain for Good Friday and the weekend. Stu Muck also says the winds will remain strong until at least Sunday. A lakeside community in Green Lake County decided it wanted to play an active role in documenting weather events impacting their community. Ben Jarboe finds out about it with volunteer Jim Goyette. He got involved through the Green Lake Association and other citizen science programs like Water Action Volunteers.Participants collect rainfall data that contributes to historical records and more accurate weather forecasting. Monitoring precipitation is especially important for agriculture, water quality, and maintaining aquifers and streams. Goyette chose his rain gauge location based on provided guidelines, placing it in an open area away from obstructions. Proper placement helps ensure accurate readings, even though weather can vary significantly over short distances. His rainfall data closely matches a neighbor’s digital weather system, confirming reliable measurements. Participation is simple and takes about 15 minutes per day, making it easy to fit into daily routines. Measuring snowfall requires a bit more effort, including melting snow to calculate water content. The program is a great entry point for people interested in environmental stewardship and citizen science. Meanwhile, the Wisconsin Beef Council's announced its "Elite Eight" burger contestants. These top eight feature a 100% beef burger that will now be evaluated by a slate of judges to advance to the next bracket. Pam Jahnke runs down the names and locations. More details on each are available at beeftips.com. If you haven't secured that cherished chocolate Easter bunny for the weekend, prepare for a surprise. Stephanie Hoff reports that top notch chocolate is a little pricey, in part, because of the war in Iran. Billy Roberts, Sr Analyst of Food & Beverage with CoBank's Knowledge Exchange Division, says that cocoa hit a high of nearly $10,000/ton in 2023 to the current $3,000/ton now. Still, at escalated prices consumers continue to buy high grade chocolate for other reasons. He explains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin Beef Council sponsored the Best Beef Entrée award at the recent Wisconsin ProStart Invitational, inspiring the next generation of culinary leaders. Brady Weiland, a beef and dairy producer from Columbus, tells us about the experience as a judge, and tasting the creative ways that students prepared decadent beef dishes. He also gives us a firsthand look at why representing the dairy perspective on the state checkoff board is vital for the entire beef industry's success.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a Wisconsin specialty crop that captures the attention from people around the world. Ginseng is a root crop that thrives in our fresh climate here in Wisconsin. We're joined by 78th Alice in Dairyland, Sarah Hagenow, to tell us more about the crop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for 50 years of Cedar Crest Ice Cream. Marketing Manager at Cedar Crest Ice Cream, Shannon Simon, celebrates the anniversary by taking us back to the beginning and tells us about the company's history that is as rich as the ice cream they serve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are right in the thick of the spring confectionery season, but if you’ve noticed your favorite Easter basket treats look a little different this year, or cost a little more, you're not alone. Billy Roberts, Senior Analyst of Food and Beverage with CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange Division, tells Stephanie Hoff that in a world of volatile cocoa prices, the candy aisle landscape is changing. Faced with years of extreme cocoa price volatility, major chocolate manufacturers are increasingly leaning into non-chocolate alternatives, such as gummies and nut-filled confections, to protect their bottom lines.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of Wisconsin's most well known dairy businesses is celebrating a big milestone in 2026. Kiley Allan gets the review of the last 50 years of Cedar Crest Ice Cream with Shannon Simon, their Marketing Manager. Rain is here and looks to hang around for the next couple of days according to ag meteorologist Stu Muck. He also says to watch out for ice during travels. This April rain provides a good chance to be a volunteer weather observer for CoCoRaHS. Stephanie Hoff gets the details on how easy it is to be a weather observer from Cynnara Montag. Jan Prins a dairy broker from EverAg joins the show after a day of mostly higher dairy prices to talk with Ben Jarboe about how National and International happenings are affecting the markets. He says the Iran conflict is affecting butter the most.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Manure management is a standard part of Wisconsin farm life, but as operations grow and liquid storage systems become more common, the risks associated with manure pits are trending upward. This is according to UW-Madison Professor and Division of Extension Specialist Rebecca Larson. Whether you’re a seasoned operator or a new hand, here are five critical safety tips to keep in mind before you head out to the pits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a program has been honed and developed for nearly 70 years, real success can happen. That's exactly what the Wisconsin Beef Improvement Association has experienced with their sale. Alan Arndt sat down with Kiley Allan. He's the Wisconsin Beef Improvement President, Simental Director and a longtime consigner at the sale. He tells us about the sale's rich history and what consignors and buyers can expect this Saturday at the sale. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you don’t like the weather, just wait five minutes. We’ve all seen a day start with a frost and end with a sunburn. But here’s the thing -- while the atmosphere is unpredictable, our ability to track it shouldn't be. No matter what curveballs the sky throws at us, you can be a part of this historic weather story. You see things a satellite can’t. You know that the rain gauge on your porch might tell a completely different story than the one on the farm just two miles down the road. Mid-West Farm Report is inviting you to join more than 500 of your neighbors across the state as a volunteer weather observer for CoCoRaHS -- Community Collaborative Rain, Hail, and Snow Network. By reporting what’s happening right outside your window, you’re helping the National Weather Service determine the true impact and severity of every storm. Take it from Cynnara Montag, a proud weather observer since 2021, when she answered the call from her local watershed group to help the National Weather Service. She tells Stephanie Hoff that the reports provide a high-definition picture of where the rain actually falls. Sign up today at WisconsinWeatherWatchers.org. Don’t just endure the weather, track it, understand it, and tell the story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intercompatibility and speed are essential for farmers to have with their equipment, and with the labor shortage getting worse each year, producers need to be able to work faster with less hands. Ben Jarboe talks with Dave Smarts, the team leader for the Agricultural Electronics Foundation's High Speed Isobust Research, to see how they are working to make equipment computers 4,000 times faster. Today will see a dip in temperatures according to ag meteorologist Stu Muck during the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update. The rest of the week holds warmer temperatures, but also some rain. Wisconsin's dairy farmers are always looking for new ways to diversify and many have found success with beef on dairy. Kiley Allan chats with Casey Jentz, the COO of the American Angus Association, to see why the angus crosses are finding success in the market. Keeping animals well fed and healthy with tightening margins is always a difficult task, but there are ways to do it. Stephanie Hoff gains insights with Jake Guenzler, an independent nutritionist for Southern Wisconsin, to see how dairy farmers can work their forage to conserve money and keep healthy cattle. Pam Jahnke joins the show with Randy Kath from the Steffes Group to see how people are using auctions for added income on their farms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rain looks like it will be here to stay for a few days according to ag meteorologist Stu Muck. Warmer weather gives the feeling of summer right around the corner and one staple of the summer is bees. Jill Welke chats with Galen Klisiewicz, the Director of the Chippewa Valley Beekeepers, to see why it has been a bit tough in recent times. Farmers are constantly looking to get the most out of their operation and for dairy farms that might mean carbon credits. Stephanie Hoff talks with Jennifer Block, the director of value chain partnerships with Edge Dairy Cooperative, to see how their EmPower+ program can help farmers get more out of their carbon credits. Ben Jarboe talks with John Heinberg, a market advisor with Total Farm Marketing, to get a preview on upcoming reports and discuss what is happening with cattle. He says today's report may be heavily dictated by fertilizer for planting acres.--See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After graduating from St. John’s University, a North Dakotan farm boy found himself returning to the family operation at an interesting time in the farming community. In the late 1970s, Rusty Volk was excited bring his new bride back to the family’s 1900 acre, 100 head dairy farm, but that didn’t mean things were easy. Rusty reminds us of the importance of resilience in the face of a changing agricultural landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Haag of Haag Dairy in Dane tells Stephanie Hoff about the mutual benefits of hosting Girl Scouts on the farm. Stephanie was one of the 11 workshop presenters on Saturday as the troops earned their dairy patch. Bomaz Farms in Hammond relies on immigrant labor to help the family care for 1,500 cows 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Even though their employees are E-Verified and have no criminal record, the thought of getting targeted by immigration officials keeps Ashley Zwald up at night, Pam Jahnke reports. The Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update calls for a beautiful day before April showers and cooler temperatures arrive mid-week. The "BeSure!" campaign by Bayer promotes best management practices for treating seeds with neonicotinoids to protect pollinators. It advises farmers on handling treated seeds, minimizing dust, and protecting flowering habitats. Pam Jahnke gets the details from Lillian Brzostowski. Austin Gellings, senior director of agriculture at AEM, says due to tight margins, farmers are choosing to buy used equipment instead of new machinery. This shift is pushing manufacturers to explore new ways to stay competitive and support farmers’ needs, he tells Ben Jarboe. One key strategy is developing retrofit technologies that allow farmers to upgrade older equipment instead of replacing it. Rusty Volk highlights the financial shifts of the late 70s and early 80s, that forced many, including himself, to exit the industry. His tells Kiley Allan his primary advice for modern farmers facing turbulence is to look 15 years ahead rather than dwelling on the past. He calls for support of youth education in agriculture to ensure the future of the industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Host Ben Jarboe gives a look at what has been working for him recently fishing and Pat Hasburgh joins the show to share what he has been hearing and provides regulation insights. Brian Cordel with Clint's Custom Baits joins the show to explain how their basement lure making operation can make some of the most unique baits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ryan Milligan with the Agricultural Electronics Foundation tells Ben Jarboe the group started due to different interpretations of a new rule and has continued to allow for compatibility for all tractors and implements.The Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update says after snow chances, we’ll enjoy a warm front.Veterinarian Kendra Wells with Valley Veterinary Clinic tells Stephanie Hoff that the dairy industry has shifted its perspective on calves, moving from seeing them as future earners to recognizing them as the immediate, high-value "future of the farm." Julie Schroeder, Co-Founder of Sheboygan and Fond du Lac County REKO Rings, explains how the online farmer's markets that allow consumers to access local food year-round. She tells Kiley Allan the system operates through private Facebook groups where local farmers and small businesses post their weekly availability; customers order by commenting directly on posts and prepaying the vendor. Unlike traditional markets that require hours of setup and uncertain sales, REKO rings feature a 30-minute drive-through pickup window where farmers only bring items that are already sold.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update, Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck says we can expect a few rain showers before we see warmer weather. Stephanie Hoff visits with two council graduates today about how this program is a backstage pass to the world of ag policy and career networking. Mary Schrieber and Jescey Thompson are both now college students after successful stints in the FFA. Mary, originally from East Troy, was a National FFA Vice President. Jescey, who calls Ettrick home, was a Wisconsin State FFA President. Their career interests started in high school, when they saw the opportunity to apply for the Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council. Pam Jahnke talks land auctions with the Steffes Group. Kiley catches up with Matt Crimmins. He tells us about the importance of livestock identification in the meat processing industry. At the WPS Farm Show Ben Jarboe has a lot of fun learning about some of the new technology on the market. He talked to Justin Premo about the realities of upgrading equipment on the farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday was an exciting day for the Fitchburg Fire Department, as the Wisconsin Soybean Program donated a bunch of soy foam. This is meant to be an environmentally safe way to fight fires. Jonathan Gibbs, a Farmer Director for the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, shares how it all came together and why the soy foam is so important. Scott Sarver the fire chief and emergency manager for the Fitchburg fire department, shares what it means for them to be able to use this and why they feel this is going to be beneficial in the long run.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 64th WPS Farm Show at the EAA grounds has seen a strong turnout of visitors and exhibitors, serving as a vital "reunion" for the agribusiness community. Spokesman Matt Cullen highlights the event's success with Stephanie Hoff! Today is the final day, and it includes free admission.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kiley Allan visits with Extension Conservation and Nutrient Specialist Kevin Erb about manure handling safety. Did you know over half of manure-handling accidents occur on the road? More than half of those accidents happen at intersections because of speed, taking corners too sharply, or failing to account for the liquid sloshing in the tank. Ag meteorologist Stu Muck says showers and a cool front are expected today before we get back to a warm, dry weekend. April showers are expected next week. The 64th WPS Farm Show at the EAA grounds has seen a strong turnout of visitors and exhibitors, serving as a vital "reunion" for the agribusiness community. Spokesman Matt Cullen highlights the event's success! Today is the final day, and it includes free admission. The Wisconsin Soybean Program has donated an innovative, PFAS-free firefighting foam to the Fitchburg Fire Department. Ben Jarboe talks to Director Jonathon Gibbs and Fire Chief Scott Sarver about the safer and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional chemicals. Katie Burgess, a dairy broker and analyst with Ever.Ag, says recent reports indicate that U.S. cow numbers have reached their highest levels since the early 1990s, yet dairy markets remain bolstered by a slower-than-average growth in cheese and butter inventories and strong export demand. As European cheese prices climb, the U.S. market has followed suit, pushing Class III milk prices to new life-of-contract highs for the second half of the year. This surge in pricing presents a strategic opportunity for producers to manage price risk while the market sits at these elevated levels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stu Muck says we can expect moderate temperatures that fluctuate throughout the week. With current events affecting prices, farm inputs are seemingly on the rise. Pam Jahnke gets a 2026 financial forecast from Bill Moore. Insurance can be complicated to navigate, but it's a necessary part of doing business with both traditional equipment, as well as new technology. Stephanie Hoff sits down with insurance advisor Eric Greening to learn the intricacies of drone insurance. Brittany Marquard is the Education and Programming Manager at the Food and Farm Exploration Center. She talks to Ben Jarboe about a youth farm safety training the center is hosting. John Heinberg weighs in on current issues affecting the marketplace. He walks us through the impact of tensions with Iran. He explains what we expect to come from President Trump's "Celebration of Agriculture."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mother Nature has been a little indecisive. Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck tells us what's in store this week. Bob Bosold joins us this morning from Eau Claire. He talks with a dairy farmer and experts about the new technology in milking barns. Stephanie Hoff learns more about the history of Klondike Cheese from Dave Buholzer. Ben Jarboe joins Dr. John Goeser to learn about considerations farmers should make when including corn silage in their cows’ rations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmer's markets are a great place to get fresh and local foods during the spring and summertime, but in the winter, there's fewer options. Well, thanks to the internet and a can-do attitude from local farmers, that's changing. REKO rings provide an online farmer's market option. Julie Schroeder is the co-founder of the Fond du Lac and Sheboygan County REKO rings. She explains how they work.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.