MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

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.

The last 30 years has presented a loss of grasslands and habitat as a whole across America, and we're seeing the effects right here at home in Wisconsin. An organization called Pheasants Forever is dedicated to wildlife habitat conservation. So while pheasants is in their name, the habitat that they encourage benefits all wildlife. Johnny Behrendt is the Precision Ag Conservation Specialist with Pheasants Forever. He sat down to tell us about the health of the pheasant population in Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Livestock identification plays a crucial role in the tracking of active livestock diseases, but it's also important in keeping our food system safe. Matt Crimmins is the Procurement Coordinator for Johnsonville Sausage and a recently retired Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium board member. He explains how livestock identification plays an important role in his everyday duties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Wisconsin, dairy farmers are always trying to get the most milk out of their cattle, and one of the big ways they are able to do that is through the nutrition and the feed they give them. Dr. John Goeser, a dairy nutrition and management consultant with Progressive Dairy Solutions, gives a look at what the current hay supply is like and how corn silage because a bigger part of cattle's diet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin dairy operators are trying to find their way to profitability through 2026, but it's complicated. Stephanie Hoff asks some tough questions of Leonard Polzin, Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist, UW-Madison Division of Extension. While specific data is often private, the IDFA estimates roughly $11 billion in capital expenditures across 50 projects in 19 states. Major processing growth is concentrated in a "T" shape: running through the middle of the country (Texas, Kansas, Dakotas) and across the Northern U.S. (Washington, Idaho, Wisconsin, and New York). The industry is grappling with "hazy" data regarding how much of this investment is truly new capacity versus replacement for closing plants, as well as the actual ramp-up time for these facilities. U.S. cheese exports saw a significant increase in 2025, but they are moving at steep discounts. This means exports are currently providing a price floor rather than a price premium for farmers. Leonard suggests farmers ask their processors specific questions about their product mix (e.g., types of cheese) and target markets (institutional vs. retail) to understand where their individual price volatility is coming from. To add value beyond milk components—which can be limited by processor caps—many farms are increasingly looking toward beef-on-dairy crossbreeding to bolster the bottom line. What a difference a few days can make. Welcome to spring 2026 in Wisconsin. From historically deep snow on Monday to temperatures near 70 by tomorrow. Stu Muck says that the weekend will be wonderful. Slightly cooler temperatures on the way next week however.Rosy Lane Holsteins of Watertown knows the benefits of partnering with the Focus on Energy program. Terry Pernsteiner, Focus on Energy Advisor, helps Jordan Matthews find as many rebates and energy savings benefits as he can. Their partnership is focused on regular maintenance and getting ahead of building projects before they begin. The two share their perspective with Pam Jahnke. Paid for by Focus on Energy. Nebraska livestock owners are dealing with the aftermath of the 5th largest wildfire in U.S. history. Craig Uden, President of the NE Cattlemen says normally they'd be putting cattle out on pasture, but now there's now pasture to use. That's causing financial hardships for those farms impacted. Wisconsin maple syrup producers are picking up the pieces from Blizzard Evelyn last weekend. Pam Jahnke talks to Theresa Baroun, executive director of the WI Maple Syrup Producers Association. She's got her own sugar bush near DePere. She says right now it's all about battling through the remain snow drifts. Weekend weather looks promising to restart the process. Baroun says Wisconsin saw a surge during the pandemic when people decided to try sugar mapling, and stayed with it. That's help Wisconsin move from number 4 nationally to the number 3 slot!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Building healthier soils requires trial and error, and sometimes uncovers side effects. While no-till and cover cropping offer immense benefits to soil heath and water quality, they also create the perfect habitat for slugs. Dane Elmquist, a conservation cropping specialist with the Division of Extension, tells Stephanie Hoff why slugs have become a headline item in his research. You can get involved by searching SlugNet online!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Braunschweiger, landjägers, and Berkshire hams -- it's enough to make your mouth water! These are a sample of the premium meats you can get for the Easter holiday at Bavaria Sausage. Scott Stowell tells Stephanie Hoff why their "old-world" recipes have remained a Wisconsin staple for over 60 years. From creamy, marbled hams to artisan pâté, authentic meats turn a simple Easter dinner into a deep-seated family memory. Whether you’re looking to fill a holiday basket with German candies or find the perfect centerpiece for your table, visit BavariaSausage.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Milk cooling is one of the biggest energy users on a dairy. Inefficient systems force compressors to run longer and harder, driving up energy costs. That's a message that resonated with Jordan Matthews from Rosy Lane Holsteins in Watertown. This dairy operation milks about 1,600 cows across two sites. The Watertown (Main Farm) site houses all calving operations, high-production cows, and wet calves through six months. The Paoli (Second Site) is a rented milking facility that manages around 700 pregnant and late-lactation cows. Two very different setups, but both rely on dependable milk cooling systems. Listen in as Terry Pernsteiner, Focus on Energy Advisor, explains the routine examination that Rosy Lane Holsteins goes through to keep their equipment working well. Through the team of professionals that Focus on Energy works with, there's actually very little for the farm to do except collect the rebates and savings. Pernsteiner explains what happens. If you're a busy dairy operator or someone involved in production agriculture, isn't there a motor, fan, compressor or some other electric device that might need a tune up. Request a visit from one of Wisconsin's Focus on Energy Advisors and find out! Go to Focus on Energy's website and request a visit from an advisor, or call 800.762.7077 for assistance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Railroads have long been a staple for Wisconsin agriculture and 2026 is no exception. Brad Peot is the commercial sales manager with WATCO railroad. Watco is a full-service supply chain solutions company. They provide rail, transloading, terminal and port, and logistics services. The company is privately owned and headquartered in Pittsburg, Kansas. Ben Jarboe learns that right now railroads face unique challenges during winter when rivers freeze and barge traffic stops. Extremely cold temperatures slow rail operations because trains rely on air brake systems that work less efficiently in dry, cold conditions. In very cold weather, trains may need to run with fewer railcars to meet air pressure requirements for braking systems. Let's not forget about the crews! They're working in the outdoors to connect and disconnect railcars, creating safety risks like frostbite during extreme cold. Peot says that WATCO is responsible for most of the grain movement in Wisconsin today. Snow piles are starting to disappear thanks to warming temperatures. Stu Muck says today that means a little early morning for. For southern WI, temps will sneak back toward 60 by the weekend. Warmer weather means farms can resume manure management plans in certain areas. Safety has to be a priority. That's the message from Kevin Erb, Conservation and Nutrient Specialist with UW Extension. He tells Kiley Allan that over half of manure-handling accidents occur on the road, with 55% of those happening at intersections due to speed, taking corners too sharply, or failing to account for the sloshing of the liquid in the tank. Approximately 20% of incidents occur when turning into field driveways; many existing culverts and entrances are too narrow for modern, larger farm equipment, requiring infrastructure updates or more cautious maneuvering. It's not just farmers that need to pay attention. Erb says civilian drivers share the responsibility for safety. Motorists are encouraged to practice patience, as attempting to pass wide farm machinery in a hurry often leads to preventable collisions. State senate leaders have wrapped up their work. Pam Jahnke gives a brief rundown on some of the agribusiness and rural related items that are off the governor's desk. Wild winter weather undid the first meeting of the WI Agriculture Youth Council this week. Stephanie Hoff has accepted a board position with WAYC. Others that have been involved with the council include Mary Schreiber, past National FFA Officer from East Troy. She explains the unique human connections she made on the council that turned into friendships on the collegiate level. Likewise, Jersey Thompson from Ettrick is currently a student at Iowa State. He also served as a past WI State FFA President. He says the exposure to people already in key positions for agriculture help inspire the desire for hands on experiences.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every voice counts when it comes to speaking up for agriculture. Kim Bremmer is the current President of American Agri-Women, and also serves as Executive Director of Venture Dairy Co-op. Bremmer also holds board positions with the American Dairy Coalition and the Farm Bureau. Her career is rooted in a childhood on a dairy farm and a degree in dairy science from UW-Madison, followed by 15 years as an on-farm ruminant nutritionist. A major driver for her advocacy is closing the gap between the average consumer and the farm, helping farmers find the confidence to share their stories and represent American agriculture. Through her national leadership, Brummer emphasizes that despite regional differences, farmers share the same challenges and are stronger when they amplify their voices together. She encourages others to get involved by choosing one thing they love, whether it's social media, writing, or school programs,rather than trying to do everything. Kiley Allan listens in.A little more snow overnight for some of Wisconsin. Stu Muck says the precipitation will be changing form overnight and temperatures will start to rise. That means a muddy Wisconsin is on the way by the end of the week.Four wheel drive tractors remain a hot commodity in the auction world. Pam Jahnke visits with Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group. Huhn says selection is still good and prices are moderate. Paid for by Steffes Group.Can you imagine your food as a prescription. No pills, just focus on eating exact vitamins and elements in certainf foods. That's happening in conversation now with physicians and dieticians nationwide. The National Cattlemen's Beef Association is a part of that conversation. Pam Jahnke learns about the direction of those talks from Shalene McNeil. McNeil is a registered dietician herself who is currently the executive director of nutrition, health and wellness at the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. She says research done by the beef checkoff shows what lean beef's protein and vitamins bring to the table. Paid for by WI Beef Council and Equity Livestock Sales Cooperative.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the intersection of cutting-edge science and agricultural industry improvement is a company called C-Lock. Don Zimmerman is the Precision Livestock Advisor with the company. Boasting accurate data that easily translates to action steps for producers, he explains some of the company’s technology that producers can easily integrate into their operations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Attention high school juniors: Are you ready to take your seat at the table? The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is looking for the next generation of leaders to join the Wisconsin Agriculture Youth Council. The deadline to apply is March 31. 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. Learn more: https://datcp.wi.gov/Pages/About_Us/AgYouthCouncil.aspxSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We talk a lot about the art and expertise required to make quality cheese, but that's not the only dairy products we craft from Wisconsin milk. Other products like butter and yogurt take a similar level of attention to detail. Don Tribby is the account manager and business director at International Flavor and Fragrance, and he has been professionally judging dairy products for 20 years. He explains the more intricate details of a staple for many dinner tables: butter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We often talk about the hard data that drives modern agriculture, but what about the everyday observations of a farmer in the field? Pairing those together could prevent $150 an acre from washing away in the spring thaw. Steve Hoffman is the president of InDepth Agronomy. As an independent crop consultant, he works with a lot of farmer-led watershed groups to set up on-farm research plots and demonstration field days. Stephanie Hoff caught up with Steve at a watershed event, who presented on his own kitchen experiment that led to new findings for farmers utilizing cover crops.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With concern over High Path Avian Influenza(HPAI) persisting in Wisconsin, Senator Pat Testin is partnering with other lawmakers to eliminate one element that might cause spread. Under current law, the Natural Resources Board may sell lands and structures owned by the state that are under the jurisdiction of the Department of Natural Resources when the board determines that the lands are no longer necessary for the state’s use for conservation purposes. A bill has now advanced out of the senate that could limit those land sales if it's in close proximity to a poultry operation. Testin explains the motivation behind the change. He also provides an update on the lack of progress on protecting Wisconsin's hemp industry. Lack of progress in finding reasonable restrictions on Wisconsin hemp producers and marketers means they will still be waiting for a resolution when spring planting begins. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's a partnership unique to Wisconsin, that's all about Wisconsin. Let's do a little deeper dive on how the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation actually helped to start Rural Mutual Insurance! Pam Jahnke is joined by Jenny Martin, Rural Mutual Insurance, Director of Marketing and Mandy Ganser, WFBF, Director of Member Relations. They explain how farmers need for insurance fueled the beginning of Rural Mutual! Today, that foundation of serving the rural community continues to resonate. Martin explains that 90 years ago, Wisconsin farmers were having difficulty finding insurance that covered the professions they were involved in. Through that conversation, Rural Mutual began. Today, Rural Mutual continues to serve that audience and more with over 150 agents statewide. Rural Mutual is exclusively in Wisconsin so that its agents know the clients they serve. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation began more than 105 years ago giving a voice to agriculture. Today, that voice is the largest group speaking up for agriculture through 61 county Farm Bureau organizations. Mandy Ganser, WFBF, Director of Member Relations says that today the benefits offered through membership are vast. Not only is the organization advocating through agriculture and rural policy developments, there's also financial rewards. Discounts for family related expenses like health and wellness or travel are available through the membership. As you'd expect, Ganser stresses their partnerships with farm specific bonuses too. Case-IH, Ford and Caterpillar are just a few corporate partners offering member discounts. Ganser says it's just as simple as presenting your membership card.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to Lee Schulz, Chief Economist with Ever.Ag, 2023 was the worst year ever in pork production. How do markets look three years later in 2026? He tells us about the healthy balance of supply and demand in the marketplace.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maintaining a record system for all of Wisconsin's livestock is no small feat, but the Wisconsin Livestock Identification Consortium (WLIC) is up to the task. Every three years, WLIC contacts everybody who's actively in the system to renew their registration, and in 2025, the organization did just that. Julie Sweeney is the Executive Director. She tells us about the success they saw during the renewal and their priorities for 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Miltrim Farms in Athens, Wisconsin, is a family operation that has grown from its 1988 roots into a powerhouse milking 3,000 cows. David Trimner tells Stephanie Hoff about how they use technology and conservation research to promote sustainability, including measuring carbon through the Professional Dairy Producers' Your Farm, Your Footprint program. After all, carbon seems to be becoming the next big frontier for the modern dairy farmer, as told by David.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent waiver from DATCP eliminates PRRS and PEDv testing before transportation of swine across the state of Wisconsin. Jeff Morris, the Extension Swine Outreach Specialist, explains the logistics of the waiver. He explains the impact of PRRS and PEDv on the swine industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Farm and Industry Short Course has a new leader. Mary Holle is the new program director at UW-River Falls Farm and Industry Short Course. Mary and her husband operate a 480-acre farm in Baldwin, Wisconsin, where they manage a herd of 50 registered Holsteins. She tells Stephanie Hoff about the 16-week course which is specifically designed for the "slow season," running from the last week of October to the second week of March. Students spend roughly 80% of their time at the Mann Valley lab farm, working directly with cows, silages, and industry professionals. While the current curriculum is dairy-focused, there are plans to add business, horticulture, agronomy, and soil science electives by the 2026–27 school year. Mary aims to rebuild the FISC advisory board and restart the agricultural tour to connect current students with successful program graduates. Prospective students can reach out directly to the program via a dedicated email address: fisc@uwrf.edu. Snow totals continue to impress on a Tuesday morning. Stu Muck runs down tally's from around the state. He also cautions that more snow could be coming back around. Drifting will continue to be a challenge. As agriculture grows, so does the size of the buildings it's using. Ben Jarboe finds out about some of the challenges that have to be met in constructing those buildings from Jason Ullmer. Ullmer is an ag construction advisor in the Fox Valley. In Wisconsin, current milking parlors were probably built around 2000. That means it could be time for an upgrade. He explains that expansion projects take time and a lot of attention to details. Soybeans moved limit lower yesterday in Chicago. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says it was sparked by rumors that the US/China meeting will be postponed. He says that there was also a brief comment made by China that they were interested in almost everything except U.S. soybeans. If you're looking for a positive from all the snow - think river levels. Heinberg says at least for the upper Mississippi River transports, levels are good.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cartels that have been making news in Mexico are impacting more than just local neighborhoods. Bob Bosold visits with a group of Mexican cattle producers in attendance at the WI Cattlemen's Associaton winter convention. They explain that doing business in Mexico has become very dangerous, even for farmers! Now the group is looking at ways to transport their business into the U.S.Weather is the word for everybody in Wisconsin today. Most of the state continues with a blizzard warning until 4 p.m. Stu Muck totals up the snowfall received so far, plus the wind that keeps moving it from one place to another.Stephanie Hoff has another story of engagement from Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. Today she visit with dairy farmer and DFW Board Member, Annaliese Wegner . Wegner shares how everyday farm management translates into impactful industry leadership. She explains how the farmer-led checkoff creates one voice over 5,000 diverse operations to build global demand and protect consumer trust. Whether milking 30 cows or 3,000, Annaliese encourages all producers to lend their perspective to ensure a strong future. Paid for by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.On Friday the WI Dept. of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection effectively cancelled all poultry swap meetings from now until May 5th for about half of the state. That puts Dale Wheelock, chair of the Fur & Feather Committee in Walworth county, in a tough spot. He says they planned their spring poultry swap meet for April 4th. Now, they have to figure out how to cover their expenses as they cancel. Is the ban on swap meets effective? Where does Wisconsin stand now battling against HPAI? Kiley Allan finds out from Dr. Heather Roney, Program Veterinarian Wisconsin DATCP Division of Animal Health. She says Wisconsin continues to respond to the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak that began in 2022. New cases were confirmed in early 2026 within commercial operations in Jefferson and Walworth counties. She says with the spring wild bird migration approaching, producers are urged to keep birds indoors, limit visitors, and tighten biosecurity protocols for clothing and equipment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dairying takes a lot of skill from herd management to mechanics. For Matthew Fischer, the future of his family farm in Owen depends on a different skill set: leadership. Right now, Matthew is balancing his goal to expand the family business, Henar Acres Dairy, with his career as an educational leadership consultant for the agricultural fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho. But even as a professional in the leadership business, Matthew tells Stephanie Hoff that he has turned to the Professional Dairy Producers' Cornerstone Dairy Academy to sharpen his vision for the next century of his family farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin's Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is keeping a close eye on highly pathogenic avian influenza. Dr. Heather Roney is the program veterinarian with DATCP's Division of Animal Health. She tells us the current state of the disease in Wisconsin poultry flocks and dairy herds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether she's talking to a crowd of people or working behind the scenes for agriculture, Kim Bremmer can wear any number of hats. The recently elected president of American Agri-Women tells us about her agriculture advocacy journey. She mentions that with busy schedules, we must find the communication avenues we are most interested in and invest our time there.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Temperatures are warming up and open water season is here for some. Trevor from OPS Experiences gives a look at how ice fishing went in the southeastern part of the state and some considerations for the early spring season. Host Ben Jarboe and him also talk about cheating in fishing tournaments and what it does to the fisheries. Stephen Manke the General Manager at Don's Marine in Lodi shares some things you should look for when you're buying a boat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A recent USDA report reveals a stark generational divide in agriculture. Of the nearly 350 million acres of rented farmland nationwide, less than 12 percent is owned by anyone under the age of 55. Our guest today says that farmland access and farm transition are two sides of the same coin. Stephanie Hoff visits with Shelly Rothman, executive director of the Foxhead Regenerative Agriculture Project, a nonprofit based in the Upper Fox River Watershed in east-central Wisconsin. They specifically serve Green Lake County and surrounding areas, currently supporting over 40 farms, along with local food businesses and community partners. Shelly says that high land costs make it nearly impossible for new farmers to enter the industry without inheritance. That’s been a primary driver for their new farm transition program. To provide resources for farm transitions, Foxhead collaborates with the UW-Madison Division of Extension to use their existing materials and workbooks. Bonnie Warndahl, a farmland access and transition specialist from Renewing the Countryside, has also been a partner of the Foxhead Regenerative Agriculture Project. Bonnie is the farmland transition coordinator, and she tells Stephanie what this pilot Farm Transition Program looks like. As we wrap up the conversation, Shelly reminded us that farm succession is about so much more than just "handing over the keys" – it’s more complex than that because we’re dealing with a deeply held identity. Learn more: https://foxheadag.org/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wolf numbers in Wisconsin continue to grow, increasing concern from livestock owners on depradation. Jill Welke finds out how Bob Mitchell is working to deal with the conflict. Mitchell is a member of the WI Cattlemen's Association and also sits on the DNR Wolf Advisory Board. He explains the science behind how the state looks to manage the wolf population. High wind advisories are in effect across the state of Wisconsin today through the weekend. Stu Muck says we'll also have to manage through a mix of precipitation starting Saturday through Monday morning. On this edition of the Mid-West Ride Along, Pam Jahnke meets patriarch, Ralph Berry, from Berry Farms in Curtiss, WI. Starting as a dairy that expanded into custom harvesting, Ralph Berry explains the evolution of the equipment he's used to farm his acres and harvest for others. Schultz's Inter-State Ag, headquartered in Monroe, has been a stalwart partner with Berry Farms. Jeremy Buchner is a service technician that helps keep things working all around the region. Although Buchner didn't grow up in agriculture, he's found his passion in helping farms keep rolling.As fewer Wisconsinites come from a farming background, farms must take on the responsibility of educating the public about their operations. Ben Jarboe finds out how the Dairy Business Association/Edge Dairy Cooperative engages with town and county officials before they craft limiting ordinances that could stifle agricultural growth. Erin Tomasik tells Ben Jarboe that they're physically taking farmers with them to key meetings to share what they do daily on the farm, and why.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Wisconsin’s potato growers get ready for spring planting, they’re also looking toward their trade associations to promote policy that works for growers, not against them. Mike Wenkel is the COO of the National Potato Council. He tells Stephanie Hoff about his hefty to-do list ahead of the growing season. He’s watching that nutrition definitions are pro-potato; he’s navigating labor reform conversations in Congress; and he’s advocating for market access during a period where we’ve got a big supply of spuds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inspiring young minds about their future role in agriculture and food production is part of the motivation behind the World Food Prize. Kara Henderlight is the Student Outreach Coordinator for CALS that's coordinating their outreach for the World Food Prize and Wisconsin Youth Institute. She explains what it is and why youth should give it a look. Windy! Dangerously windy! Stu Muck says Wisconsin is already populated with high wind advisories and soon it will involve mixed precipitation. Potato chips, french fries or a big baked spud. If you see it today, be reminded that the Wisconsin potato producer that put it there is losing money. Stephanie Hoff tells us that Mike Weinkle, COO of the National Potato Council is on the job to try and change that trend. Weinkle says they're working on everything from nutrition labeling issues to market access to help better those spud prices. Stephanie Hoff reports. While the war in Iran rages, connecting the dots on disruptions in dairy marketing continues. Bryce Windecker, dairyman himself and dairy analyst with EverAg says that the Middle East has turned into a bigger and brighter dairy market than ever before - until the war. Windecker says that the Saudia Arabia had been capitalizing on U.S. prices and purchasing a lot of butter and cheese. Now that dairy product is having a difficult time finding its way to the buyer. As prices go down, he says other major marketplaces like Mexico are moving their buying chairs to cheaper competitors versus the U.S.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marathon county is excited to host the "Alice in Dairyland" finals for the first time in decades. The county has been part of the educational experience for the current Alice, Sarah Hagenow, for the past year. Pam Jahnke sits down to visit with Julie Bohr, finance committee chair for Marathon county, and Hagenow about what's unique they have to offer. Windy and wet. Those two words sum up what Wisconsinites can expect today. On Tuesday Racine picked up more than an inch of rain. Exceptionally high amount compared to the rest of the state. Catalogs are out and interest is high for good used equipment as producers get ready for spring. Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group just returned from a large construction equipment convention in Las Vegas and says their data showed a lot of farmers from the Midwest were in attendance. Paid for by the Steffes Group. Technology is all around in food and fiber production. Kiley Allan hears from a cheesemaker in central Wisconsin that says he's wrapping his arms around technology within his cheese plant, but not losing focus on the people behind the process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the Immel Family, the Fond Du Lac County fair is more than just a fair. For 4 generations, the family has served in numerous coordination roles and find great enjoyment in giving to the community that helped to shape their passions. Pat and her grandson Saywer tell us how their fair story began.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs program has been impacting people’s lives for over 60 years. Throughout the years, the sisterhood of the Fairests has remained a place where young women grow in confidence, poise and public speaking. But the community goes beyond the girls themselves. Nicole Nohl-Ress & Kevin C. Ress described themselves to me as Fairest of the Fair enthusiasts. They take joy in seeing the development the program instills in those who participate and enjoy giving back to it. Creativity and charity took over as they made a logo for the program and gave this year’s contestants a keepsakeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It takes a village to make a fair run and often the ringleaders are those on the fair boards. Melody Thiel is a new board member with the Calumet County Agricultural Association Board of Directors. Although she's only been in her role for a little under a year, Melody is no stranger to the fair. She tells Kiley Allan about her experience thus far.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a person spends over a decade critiquing and analyzing cheese, it becomes second nature, as if it's a language you've been speaking since birth. Russell Smith recently judged at this year's World Championship Cheese Contest, an event that he's been judging at since 2012. He says that no matter your native language, the best cheeses speak to you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When people describe leadership training, it can encompass any number of theories and strategies to help understand the best ways to inspire a group of people with the goal to work together for a common cause. Fred Lohman is a supervisor as a cheese plant in Wisconsin and tells us what it means to lead ourselves before leading others.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coming off the success at the World Championship Cheese Contest, Dave Buholzer of Klondike Cheese tells Stephanie Hoff about his family's 100-year journey. From milk cans in 1925 to its current status as a world-class, multi-generational powerhouse, Klondike is an example of how cheesemaking has evolved. Buholzer discusses the evolution of dairy technology, the strategic shifts in cheesemaking to meet modern consumer demands, and the unique dynamics of running a successful business with siblings and cousins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin has adopted a waiver suspension on testing for Porcine Reproductive & Respiratory Syndrome(PRRS) as well as Porcine Epidemic Virus (PEDv) in the states hog population. The waiver brings some relief to the states pork producers after uncertainty on how far a proposed rule revision would advance. The draft rule was approved by the DATCP Board on January 29th, and by the Governor on February 6th. It was submitted to the Legislative Reference Bureau on February 19 for further action. However, before the rule can become final, it must complete a legislative review and be published in the register. That process can take several weeks, sometimes months. That's where the state's pork industry got nervous about not seeing the measure adopted. “With spring movements and show pig exhibitions coming up quickly, WPA’s ask to WDATCP was to waive the current PRRS and PEDv testing requirements while we wait for final publication of the rule in order to reduce the economic burden associated with the testing,” stated Keri Retallick, Executive Vice President. Curt Larson, president and CEO of Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales Association tells Pam Jahnke that it will make marketing of hogs in the state much less complicated. Larson said that because of the requirement, they were forced to create two separate auction systems. One for hogs that were going to the meat market, and the other for hogs that were going back to the farm as replacements or for further feeding. Larson says that the rule also put Wisconsin pork producers at a disadvantage since surrounding states never implemented testing requirements for their producers.“Our thanks to State Veterinarian Dr. Konkle for her willingness to accept the waiver and listen to our producers in an effort to reduce burdensome testing that did not advance the intent of the rule to enhance swine health,” said Retallick. “WPA will continue to work closely with producers, veterinarians, and industry partners to safeguard herd health while supporting Wisconsin’s agricultural industry.”The waiver, effective immediately, will remain in effect until the final rule is published. Wisconsin’s pork producers are encouraged to maintain strong biosecurity measures and promptly report any suspected cases of PRRS or PEDv to their herd veterinarian.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dairy Business Innovation Alliance or DBIA gives out grants every year to businesses within the dairy industry to help them start, grow, and renovate. One of the more unique recipients makes vodka using sheep whey. Scott Kring, a co-owner of Birch Point Distillery in Westby, shares how this process works and what the grant was used for at their facility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beef plants across the country have been closing, and this is due to a multitude of reasons. One of these reasons is the historically low number of cattle within the US. Brenda Boetel, the department chair and professor of agricultural economics at UW-River Falls, shares a more in depth look at these closures and why Argentine imports of beef may not necessarily be bad.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Tera Montgomery, Director at the School of Agriculture, University of Wisconsin-Platteville says they've got a lot to offer students and industry. In her conversation with Kiley Allan, Montgomery says campus offers seven majors, including animal science and ag-business. Enrollment is rising due to Wisconsin’s direct admission policy and a growing student interest in precision technology, water stewardship, and manure management. Central to the curriculum is hands-on learning, primarily through the 430-acre Pioneer Farm. Students engage in crop production, agroecology research, and livestock management (beef, dairy, and swine), supplemented by specialized campus labs in food technology and anatomy. The program caters to both students from farming backgrounds and those without farm experience, ensuring they gain the "on-farm" credibility required by industry employers. That gorgeous weather on Monday set records in Madison, LaCrosse and Milwaukee. Now it's a memory. Stu Muck says we've got cooler, wet weather moving in as soon as this afternoon. That St. Patrick's Day pub crawl could be wet too. AI is finding more inroads to Wisconsin dairies. Technology has always been a part of day-to-day operations, but now it's looking different. Ben Jarboe gets some perspective from Dr. Jeffery Bewley, Executive director of genetics and innovation for Holstein Association USA. He says the language models that AI offers are very farmer friendly. Advanced computing abilities for farm data, images and video are driving some of the latest tools. Bewley says while all the technology is great, it does have limitations. Bewley says it requires broadband strength, computer power and reliability. That brings ripples in community conversations about things like data centers. Bewley says while all of the advancements are wonderful, they won't likely replace all the human elements needed to handle animals and changing conditions. Markets continue to have a laser focus on what's happen in the Middle East. Petroleum and fertilizer are the two big items agriculture's following. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend broadens our perspective on what else is being impacted. It looks like the cattle market is making some downward moves motivated by higher corn prices. Everything isn't clear yet - but it's something cattle producers should keep an eye on.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Determination is an unwritten characteristic of anyone involved in agriculture. The 2026 Groundbreaker award winners, presented by Compeer Financial, exemplify that determination. The selected winners are Bryanna and Dylan Handel of Barneveld. There story has taken many turns over the past decade, but they remain determined to pursue their passion for agriculture. Pam Jahnke listened in. Bryanna’s plans to establish a farm began at 16 years old when she purchased her first cow and housed it at her grandparents’ farm. She and Dylan established B. Kurt Dairy in 2014 with 16 cows in a rented barn near Verona, Wis., before they purchased their current farmstead from a retiring farmer near Barneveld in 2016. Since then, they’ve been growing their farm, family and community engagement while addressing a severe stray voltage issue. The stray voltage began in late 2023 and was linked to a nearby substation. It impacted overall herd health and drastically reduced milk production. The Handels enlisted experts and deployed solutions like rewiring and isolating their farm to minimize the impact. During their journey, the Handels encountered other farmers experiencing stray voltage challenges and helped them navigate their situations. They continue their fight as they engage with state and federal organizations to fund a new USDA study focused on better understanding stray voltage. Their goal is to uncover and correct the source cause so other farmers aren’t faced with stray voltage issues in the future. Meghan Wellnitz-Trejo, financial officer with Compeer Financial, who nominated the Handels, shared that the Handels believe “farming is a calling that provides their children and community a grounded connection to the land and their food sources.” They demonstrate that connection by offering farm camps to area youth and on-farm markets where they invite area farmers to sell their goods. They also established a farm store in downtown Barneveld to strengthen local food networks. The store is helping 35 area farmers sell their products locally. “It’s really great because you get to see so many businesses thrive off this one idea. All these farmers are gaining income from this store, which is great because as farmers we need that help to get it to the consumer,” Bryanna said. Compeer Financial presented the Handels with a $5,000 award, as well as $5,000 that the Handels will split between the Iowa County Technical Rescue Team and Marshall FFA Chapter on their behalf by Compeer. Dense fog advisory is in effect for most of eastern Wisconsin this morning. Stu Muck says the moisture will linger through the day with nearly an inch possible. Fortunately temperatures will stay above average. The World Champion Cheese hails from the Netherlands for 2026. The Beemster Royaal Grand Cru, made by CONO Kaasmakers in Westbeemster, Netherlands, walked away with the title Thursday, scoring 98.68 out of a possible 100. The cheese features a very sweet, nutty flavor and is very creamy. The dairy cooperative that makes up CONO Kaasmakers features 400 dairies in northern Holland with approximately 98% grazing their herds. Wisconsin came away with 45 first-place awards, followed by New York with eight and Vermont with seven. Pam Jahnke shares comments from the cheesemaker in Holland. There's a new driving force behind the Farm and Industry Short Course at UW-River Falls. Stephanie Hoff introduces us to Mary Holle. She's taken the reins as program director. Mary and her husband operate a 480-acre farm in Baldwin, Wisconsin, where they manage a herd of 50 registered Holsteins. The 16-week course is specifically designed for the "slow season," running from the last week of October to the second week of March. Students spend roughly 80% of their time at the Mann Valley lab farm, working directly with cows, silages, and industry professionals. While the current curriculum is dairy-focused, there are plans to add business, horticulture, agronomy, and soil science electives by the 2026–27 school year. Mary aims to rebuild the FISC advisory board and restart the agricultural tour to connect current students with successful program graduates. Prospective students can reach out directly to the program via a dedicated email address: fisc@uwrf.edu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff sits down with Alison Pfau, a bilingual regional dairy educator, and Trisha Wagner, Farm Management Program manager, to explore the launch of the Forward Farm Safety Toolbox. This is a research-based initiative designed to help farmers lead their own interactive safety discussions. The program moves away from traditional classroom lectures toward practical, bilingual modules that address unique on-farm hazards. These tools not only improve workplace safety but also serve as a vital strategy for increasing employee engagement and retention: https://farms.extension.wisc.edu/forward-farm-safety-toolbox/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin dairy farmer and DFW Board Member Annaliese Wegner shares how everyday farm management translates into impactful industry leadership. She explores how the farmer-led checkoff creates unity among over 5,000 diverse operations to build global demand and protect consumer trust. Whether milking 30 cows or 3,000, Annaliese encourages all producers to lend their perspective to ensure a strong future for the next generation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beef is back in the center of the plate thanks to the new Dietary Guidelines that influence all food programs funded by the government, explains J. Garrett Edmonds, senior director of government affairs with the National Cattlemen's Beef Association. But how can beef producers keep that momentum going? Edmonds talks to Bob Bosold. A beautiful day on the horizon with near-record highs. But what goes up must come down, forecasts Stu Muck in the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update. You can see that wild birds are on the move, which brings risks to poultry producers. We’ve seen, just ahead of the weekend, more highly pathogenic avian influenza cases on poultry farms in Jefferson and Walworth Counties, bringing the 2026 case count to four. Migratory Bird Management has a humane method to keep wild birds away from livestock, trading a scarecrow for a light show. Wisconsin’s Farm Service Agency Executive Director Sandy Chalmers tells Ben Jarboe how farmers can sign up for the Farmer Bridge Assistance Program to recover losses caused by trade retaliation and inflation. Congratulations to the 79th Alice in Dairyland top candidates: Faith Baerwolf, Kelly Herness, Gabrielle Huitema, Jessica Moor, Anastasia Poull, and Michelle Stangler. Pam Jahnke was there for the announcement. Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin board member Sandy Madland from Lyndel Dairy, LLC in Lyndon Station, is focused on encouraging other dairy operators to step up and join the board in the next round of elections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff visits with the new FISC Program Director Mary Holle, who dairies in Baldwin. FISC is a 16-week course specifically designed for the "slow season," running from the last week of October to the second week of March. Students spend roughly 80 percent of their time at the Mann Valley lab farm, working directly with cows, silages, and industry professionals. While the current curriculum is dairy-focused, there are plans to add business, horticulture, agronomy, and soil science electives by the 2026–27 school year. Prospective students can reach out directly to the program via a dedicated email address: fisc@uwrf.edu.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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." Due to the use of sexed semen and beef semen, farms are raising fewer replacement heifers, meaning each individual calf must be of higher quality than in the past. Veterinarians are increasingly using lung ultrasounds to detect pneumonia lesions early, as calves are prey animals that instinctively hide symptoms of illness until they are severe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin's dairy industry is thriving and always changing. Looking for the "next big thing". Some dairy sheep owners in western Wisconsin hope the next big thing is vodka. From sheep whey. Ben Jarboe gets the story from Scott Kring, Co-owner of Birch Point Distillery in Westby. Thanks to a grant from the Dairy Business Innovation Alliance (DBIA), Birch Point Distillery is producing vodka made from sheep whey. Co-owner Scott Cream said the idea came after connecting with Hidden Springs Creamery, a local sheep dairy cheese producer. Traditional distilling uses grains for fermentation, while whey distillation relies on lactose from leftover whey. The whey is first ultrafiltered to remove proteins and fats, leaving a lactose solution. That solution is then concentrated because the natural sugar levels are too low for fermentation. Lactase is added to break lactose into sugars the yeast can ferment. The DBIA grant helped pay for specialized equipment, including a filtration skid not typically used by traditional distillers. Demand for the sheep-whey vodka has grown enough that the distillery now sources whey from more than one sheep dairy. Rain gauges start coming into play beginning today with light showers. Stu Muck says the more measureable amounts will come in Friday's forecast, but temperatures remain above average.Data centers remain in the news for many rural communities in Wisconsin. Sunday, the community of Potosi will act as the gathering spot to learn more about a potential data center in nearby Cassville. Next Tuesday, citizens are asked to join the informational confirmation in Juneau about the progress of a data center in Beaver Dam. This trend is not likely to stop according to Jason Valerius, executive director, Capital Area Regional Planning Commission. He tells Stephanie Hoff that the tools most communities have in place to battle proposed data centers are weak. With population surges in areas like Dane County, the Fox Valley, Eau Claire, LaCrosse and SE WI, land is the critical element of the equation. Farms want to hang on to it, but can't fight the high prices that data centers are offering. Valerius says once that land is dedicated to a data center - it'll always be an urban form. Some communities have been able to fight back.Dairy markets are anxious like the rest of commodities over the US-Israel-Iran war. Jan Prins, dairy analyst with EverAg, joins Pam Jahnke to highlight what products are moving where. The constriction in transportation has forced some buyers to bring product forward for delivery. Will that create a vacuum in the marketplace later this year?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UW-Badger standout and NFL Hall of Famer, Joe Thomas, has turned farmer in southwest Wisconsin. Stephanie Hoff finds out what lured the offensive lineman to transition from field battles on turf, to field battles on pasture. Thomas is using his halloffamebeef.com product to elevate awareness and raise funds for Blood Cancer United and the "Big Climb" event at Camp Randall May 16th. Sunshine returns to Wisconsin today along with warmer temps. Stu Muck also reminds us to take a look at the full moon this morning if you're up in time. Market prices on good used equipment remain robust according to Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group. He tells Pam Jahnke that they're finalizing preparation for their spring catalog and it's full! Paid for by Steffes Group."B" Teamers are busy at World Champion Cheese. The event kicked off yesterday at the Monona Terrace Convention Center, and it required many hands to make light work. One of those "B" team volunteers is Jeremy Houston. He explains all the daily duties that they must get done to keep judges moving and wheels, literally, turning at the event.Kiley Allan got her first taste of the World Cheese event Wednesday speaking with judging veteran, Pam Hodgson. Hodgson is one of 2 female Master Cheesemakers in the world, with her work home at Sartori. Hodgson explains why she enjoys being part of the cheesemaking industry. She says it may seem like an individual endeavor, but in reality it's a team approach that wins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.