MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

If you feel like Wisconsin weather patterns have gotten a little more excessive - you're not alone! The Wisconsin State Climatology Office along with the Rural Partnerships Institute and Wisconet are road tripping beginning in December. They're goal isn't just seeing rural Wisconsin, they want to hear from people living in rural Wisconsin about how they're gathering their own weather information. Amanda Latham, Outreach Specialist for Wisconsin's Sate Climatology Office says that their office wants to better understand what rural areas need. These listening sessions will allow attendees to ask questions and share perspectives and experiences with extreme weather. Floods, drought, extreme heat, and cold - to name just a few challenges. Latham says with this information, they hope to develop data, tools, and resources to help communities better understand local weather and climate, as well as improve extreme weather preparedness. The "Extreme Weather and Climate Services Roadshow" will feature staff from the WI State Climatology Office as well as Wisconet partners and researchers like Jackson Parr, who's focused on extreme rural weather in Wisconsin. The first meeting December 2nd in Rhinelander will be the first of 3 currently planned. According to Latham, there's not a virtual option right now, but they're always interested in hearing from rural residents about what they can do to help with future forecasting tools, and emergency preparedness in rural areas. If you're planning to attend the free session Tuesday, December 2nd at the Newbold Community Center in Rhinelander, you can register here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government remains shutdown, and Wisconsin farmers are left without many of the tools they count on at this time of the year. Stephanie Hoff takes a closer look at how private businesses are trying to work through the situation. Rene Johnson, senior vice president of ag lending at Lake Ridge Bank and Jessica Sarbacker, vice president of crop insurance at Lake Ridge Bank are two trying to work through these processes. They sayas of Oct. 23, about 2,100 FSA offices reopened nationwide with limited hours (8–4:30) and only two staff per office, focusing on processing ARC/PLC and disaster relief payments. Many beginning farmers rely on the Farm Service Agency for financing, especially those with limited access to commercial credit or bank loans. Joint lending relationships between FSA and local lenders are common, helping new farmers secure funding. On the crop side, most (nearly all) farmers participate with FSA, reporting their planted acres and enrolling in federal programs. Farmers must report fall-planted crops like wheat, cover crops, and alfalfa by the Nov. 15 deadline, which aligns with the crop insurance deadline. Due to limited staffing and backlogs at FSA offices, it’s unlikely farmers will meet the Nov. 15 reporting deadline, prompting expectations of a possible extension. However, crop insurance deadlines typically are not extended, creating pressure for farmers to submit acreage information on time. The two say that the fall season brings peak financial pressure as farmers face high input costs, low commodity prices, and upcoming land rent, loan, and equipment payments, areas where FSA payments can provide crucial relief. Definitely cooler weather today for Wisconsin with a lot of overcast skies. Stu Muck says there is a chance you could see some snowflakes by the weekend. How comfortable are you with foreign ownership of Wisconsin farmland? That's a question that the Assembly Agriculture Committee's been discussing for several sessions. Now the chair of the committee says they're close to verbage they believe could pass. Travis Tranel, chair, says they put an emphasis on the value of private property rights in the U.S. versus the foreign adversaries they're working to keep out. Weather has cooperated with the fall harvest, allowing farms to get ahead on manure management and fall tillage. If you're tempted to try and apply some nitrogen this fall, think again. That's the advice of Dan Smith, UW-Extension Nutrient and Pest Management Program Manager. He says that normally nitrogen is applied in the spring to eliminate the risk of loss. Still, if weather allows and growers want to do it, he advises that you apply fall nitrogen after soil temperatures dip below 50 degrees. Where is the holiday demand for dairy? Zach Bauers, dairy analyst with EverAg picks up on that conversation with Pam Jahnke. Bauers says without the federal government supplying information, it's tough to know. Now Bauers says it'll be about information management since USDA has announced it will begin releasing delayed reports this week. How will the market manage that "information dump"?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 98th National FFA Convention wrapped up on Saturday, but the duties of the new national officer team are just beginning! Jill Welke caught up with the new crew and found out a little about their backgrounds and how they arrived on this grand stage.More sunshine on the way today, but you better enjoy it. Stu Muck says the windy conditions today will bring in clouds and rain potential for Thursday.The harvest is in the home stretch. In this week's Wyffels Wednesday, Ben Jarboe talks with Brant Smith, District sales manager for Winnebago, Boone, and McHenry counties in Northern Illinois. Their online harvest tool has become very popular with farmers and agribusiness partners with the absence of USDA official reports. Smith says that yields aren't record breaking but they are consistent. Paid for by Wyffels Hybrids.Wisconsin's DATCP announced yesterday that they will revise proposed fee increases on the states livestock marketing system. Randy Romanski, DATCP Secretary says this conclusion was reached after a lot of public input. This weekend Wisconsin's honey producers will get together in Neenah. Kiley Allan says the buzz this year is the disruption that weather caused on hive management. She talks to WI Honey Producer Association President, Tracy Malterer from Iron Ridge. Malterer says the rain in spring washed out the nectar bees were looking for in blooms. Then the summer became exceptionally dry, making available food sources scarce. Malterer says Wisconsin toggles between 9th and 11th place nationally, and she's guessing this year they'll slip down.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dane County is moving forward on water quality efforts with a new Community Manure Treatment Feasibility Study from its Land and Water Resources Department. Watershed Manager Kyle Minks says the report identifies potential sites for a community digester based on factors like proximity to farms, utilities, transportation routes, and environmentally sensitive areas. Of the seven townships studied, the Town of Vienna ranked highest. The proposed 40- to 80-acre facility could process manure from about 20,000 animals, producing renewable natural gas and nutrient-rich byproducts for resale. While construction isn’t yet planned, the county says it remains committed to working with farmers on practical, long-term manure management solutions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the Assembly Agriculture Committee, two key ag policy discussions are ongoing, from who can own farmland to what happens when your farm equipment breaks down. Assembly Ag Committee Chair Representative Travis Tranel joins us to talk about a proposal that would ban foreign adversaries from buying Wisconsin farmland, and another that would give farmers a “right to repair” their machinery. Plus, with all the uncertainty at the federal level on trade and the government shutdown, Tranel says it’s more important than ever for farmers to stay engaged.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year's Wisconsin Farmers Union Conference agenda is full of exciting news and discussion topics. To be held December 12-14, at the Chula Vista Resort in the Wisconsin Dells, the event is celebrating its 95th anniversary. Danielle Endvick, Executive Director of Wisconsin Farmers Union, says that with exciting conversations and a full agenda, there is something for everyone.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the Global Ethanol Summit in Washington DC, nine groups traveled across the US to learn about the Ethanol Value chain. One of those groups was a delegation from Mexico. They found themselves, right here, in Wisconsin. One of their stops was Reeb Farms in Whitewater. There, they saw harvest in action. Walter Julián Ángel Jiménez is the Secretary For Energy Development For The State Of Tamaulipas. He tells us about the group’s experience in Wisconsin. His story is voiced by a translator from MD Translation. Photo provided by: U.S. Grains & BioProducts CouncilSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Making sure you are getting what you need out of your health care is very important for the rural community, but it may be hard to know exactly it is you do need. Those needs change if you have children or are a farmer. Stephanie Plaster a Business Development Outreach Specialist with extension says that not two situations are the same.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvest is nearing its end and according to Brant Smith a District Sales Manager for Wyffels out of Winnebago, Boone and McHenry counties in Illinois it has come with variability. He says that they have seen a wide range of yields due to drought and disease pressure on fields. Smith also says that the last couple weeks of harvest look to bring good weather to close out the season. If you have any questions visit Wyffels.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin is getting more and more interest from data center developers. It's not new to the state. Michael Greif, fellow with the Midwest Environmental Advocates says that information transparency is critical for residents near these centers. He says knowing where power lines will be located is particularly important since utilities have been using "imminent domain" to secure land for power towers. Another nice sunny day for Wisconsin. Stu Muck says although the weather's breezy and dry, some of our remaining corn and soybean fields aren't drying down. Volume has picked up again with sales listings at the Steffes Group. Ashley Huhn tells Pam Jahnke that their latest catalog is ready to go! Interested parties can download it from the website or call for a physical copy. Paid for by the Steffes Group. Households are trying to figure out how to manage their needs without SNAP/FoodShare assistance this week. Even if the federal government gets payments moving, it's going to take a few days/weeks/months to restore normal flow. That's having an adverse effect on our grocery stores. Stephanie Hoff talks to Michael Seeman, president and CEO of the WI Grocers Association about how stores are managing this disruption. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend tells Pam Jahnke that the trade will start seeing some data release beginning next week. He notes that we'll get two dairy production reports, but there's still some uncertainty on the WASDE update content.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin soybean growers are closely monitoring what's happening specifically with US/China agriculture discussions. Friday the WI Soybean Association issued a statement expressing optimism about the progress, but also anxiety about market already lost. Bob Bosold talks with WI Soybean past president, Sarah Stelter, about her strategies facing these market issues. She stresses how important it is to stay involved in the process. She also explains different alternative uses soybeans are investigating including railroad fuel and firefightin soy-foam. Warmer weather on the way for the front part of this week. Stu Muck explains what he sees developing for the week across the state. 33 days that the federal government's been shut down. Farmers are just like other citizens - nervous. Ben Jarboe speaks with Stephanie Plaster, UW-Extension Business Outreach Specialist, about how farms approach affordable health care. She says if it's just a husband/wife team, they usually don't plan on seeing a doctor. However, Plaster says when you introduce kids - that all changes. The US Meat Export Federation is pleased to see some weekend development with China that could open more doors for US pork. Two bills have been signed into law by Gov. Tony Evers designed to shore up rural responders and the services they provide. Pam Jahnke talks to WI Senator, Howard Marklein, about the listening sessions he conducted to find out about the unique challenges faced by EMS groups serving rural Wisconsin. Marklein says disparities on reimbursement for services provided, as well as reimbursing educational expenses that future emergency responders faced, are part of what the bills should address. He says he hopes it helps inspire people in rural communities to think about serving.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re diving into the upcoming WWASH Conference, where Wisconsin agriculture comes together to advance water quality, soil health, and conservation. The conference is Dec. 16-17 at the Kalahari Resort & Convention Center in Wisconsin Dells. Now in its third year, WWASH combines the former Discovery Farms and Cover Crops conferences, creating one event focused on both research and real-world farming practices. Experience new features this year, including two farmer keynote speakers offering dairy and grain perspectives, a lunchtime talk from Wisconsin’s state climatologist on “weather weirdness,” and a stronger spotlight on producer-led groups driving conservation from the ground up, explains coordinator Laura Paletta. The conference also kicks off the 25th anniversary of Discovery Farms, celebrating a quarter century of on-farm water quality research and collaboration. Plus, regional guests from Iowa State University and the University of Minnesota.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the federal government shutdown drags on, the uncertainty around FoodShare funding is rippling through Wisconsin’s grocery aisles. The Trump administration announced plans to partially fund SNAP benefits after payments were delayed on Nov. 1, but the impact is already being felt across the food supply chain. Mike Semmann, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Grocers Association, joins us to explain how the disruption to FoodShare affects local grocers and the supply chain. Wisconsin’s grocery community is adapting in real time and urging Washington to bring stability back to the system.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many know the Silicon Valley as a region in Northern California that is a hub for technology innovation, but have you heard of the Silicon Valley of Bull Semen? Sophie Eaglen, International Program Director at National Association of Animal Breeders tells us why Wisconsin and the US lead the world in dairy genetics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

October is pork month and Kiley Allan has a couple suggestions on how you can help celebrate! She visits with Keri Retallick, executive director of the WI Pork Association. Retallick explains the unique flavor profile that pork can offer a recipe.Some clouds and sprinkles may roll in today before trick-n-treaters hit the streets. Stu Muck gives us our spooky forecast for a Friday and the weekend.Things can get a little spooky around this time of the year for Wisconsin drivers. As the days shorten and the weather changes, deer start changing their movement patterns. Ben Jarboe gives us some eerie details from Lt. Nate Henrikson, WI state patrol officer. He says it's important to know how to handle your vehicle if you encounter a deer. First, drive at a safe speed so you can stop. Don't swerve for deer, but if you do hit a deer, pull to the side safely and dial 911. Those are just a few of the officer's tips. Last year WI saw over 17,000 deer related crashes. Waukesha county led the state with 937 of those crashes.The National FFA Convention wraps up on Saturday in Indianapolis and it looks like the maps advisors used to get there will be relevant for the future. Cheryl Zimmerman, WI State FFA Exec. Director says they've inked a deal with the City of Indianapolis to have their annual convention there through 2040. Zimmerman says the city has committed to continuing to grow its infrastructure to accommodate the current 72,000 attendees and grow for more. Wisconsin's celebrating 4 national award winners. Hunters will be heading to the woods with increased frequency now. Deer and wild turkey are just a few of the game they may be after. Then what do you do with your prize? Keeping our Hallwoeen theme, Stephanie Hoff shares some spooky mistakes that can be made if you make your own jerky. UW-Extension Meat Specialist, Dr. Jeff Sindelair, has some safety tips to keep top-of-mind, as well as some recipe tips that might help make the most of your game.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory syndrome, more commonly know as PRRS, is the most economically damaging disease to the US pork industry. According to studies done by Iowa State University, it is estimated that PRRS cost producers $1.2 billion dollars in 2024. That staggering statistic is exactly why Extension Swine Outreach Specialist Jeff Morris is invested in sharing information about the disease.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Halloween the scariest thing you see might not be a ghost, zombie, or a witch. It might be that 10-point buck on your trail camera standing in front of your car. Lt. Nate Henriksen with the Wisconsin State Patrol shares some tips to make sure that when you're driving between trick or treat locations you don't get a scare from a deer. He says to remember not to swerve if a deer walks in front of you.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin potato growers are battling both uncooperative weather and tough market conditions this fall. Prolonged heat delayed harvest across the Midwest, forcing farmers to work overnight to protect crop quality, while the frost now threatens what’s left in the ground. Despite decent yields, prices have fallen under pressure from oversupply and reduced demand. Alsum Farms Manager Ryan Walther, out of Friesland, tells Stephanie Hoff that they’re hoping for a market turnaround soon. Sunshine again today with moderate temps. Stu Muck says there is a sliver of a chance for rain by late in the weekend.10 Wisconsin FFA members are in the final phase of competition for National Proficiency awards in Indianapolis. Tyler Leuch is one of those. This young man from Waunakee says through some 4-H leadership as a kid, he's been able to hone his skills and build a custom clipping business that has earned him a place in Indianapolis.Jill Welke is in Indianapolis visiting with Thad Bergschneider from Illinois. This young man is the current National FFA President. While his term may have started out with all kinds of hopes and goals, things changed when he broke his arm playing basketball. He explains how it forced him to pivot how he shared his FFA messages.The holding pattern continues for dairy traders according to Zach Bauers, dairy analyst with EverAg, joins Pam Jahnke to discuss. Now the market faces increased anxiety over the potential pause in SNAP benefits. Bauer says that program supports a lot of dairy investment by the government. He also notes that MAHA is re-examining the potential for "food boxes" similar to what was distributed during the pandemic. If that would come to pass, it would likely give a lift to dairy at least temporarily.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP benefits will not be reissued starting Nov. 1 due to the government shutdown. Jackie Anderson joins us. She’s the executive director of Feeding Wisconsin. She says food banks are already seeing demand rise with the news that FoodShare benefits will be delayed indefinitely. Food pantries statewide are preparing for an influx of need from families. Many have never been to a food bank before, but will be going for the first time as their food assistance gets delayed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, Wisconsin Farmers Union partnered with Farmers Union Enterprises to donate 35,000 pounds of pork to Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin. Each year, the donation goes to a different part of the state. This year, the pork went to Appleton to be further distributed. Darin Von Ruden, the President of the Board of Directors of Wisconsin Farmers Union, says the donation comes at a crucial time with the SNAP program in jeopardy. The donation was part of a bigger donation that spanned across 5 states and totaled 175,000 pounds of porkSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tracy Vinz and John Rosenow are just two of the many farmers in the state who are feeling the pinch in the labor force, highlighting the uncertainty that many are experiencing across the nation. Their words helped to spark the Grow It Here campaign aiming to find a sturdy labor force for farmers of all sectors. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As farmers wrap up harvest and turn their attention to next year, many are finding themselves navigating extra challenges at their local Farm Service Agency offices. FSA plays a critical role for farmers, who rely on the agency for credit and crop reporting. Today, we visit with Lake Ridge Bank’s Senior Vice President of Agriculture Lending, Rene Johnson, and Vice President of Crop Insurance Jessica Sarbacker about the situation. FSA offices only recently reopened after closures, and limited staff are on hand. Rene and Jessica explain that this makes meeting key deadlines like the Nov. 15 crop reporting and crop insurance cutoff tricky during a time of peak financial pressure for farmers. They remind listeners to have patience and schedule an appointment with your local FSA office as they help farmers navigate the busy season with limited personnel.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 98th National FFA Convention officially begins today in Indianapolis, Indiana. Jill Welke is there with Wisconsin's State FFA President, Amalia Draxler. Draxler previews some of the planned events and duties the state's officers will be undertaking to help the convention move along. Sunshine should dominate Wisconsin's weather today. Stu Muck says the temperatures stay consistent but the winds pick up. Wyffels Hybrids brings us a field update with Stephanie Hoff. Luke Bird is the Wyffels district manager out of Rock, Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha counties. He says that as the government continues to be shut down and we don’t get a crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Wyffels Harvest Progress Report is a great resource for not just harvest updates, but yield estimates. While visiting the harvest report, don't forget to plug and play with new Wyffels Hybrid selections on the Yield Calculator, also available on the Agronomy tab. Mary Schreiber from East Troy is wrapping up her year of service as the Central Region Vice President on the National FFA Officer team. She explains that she's covered about 90,000 miles in service so far. One visit that sticks with Schreiber is a chapter visit in West Virginia. She met an enthusiastic member who "bled blue and gold". What Mary later found out was that the member was living with her grandparents after one parent died of substance abuse, and the other was still battling the disease. Mary said the FFA advisors became surrogate parents to this member. She admits that the story startled her and reminded her that the FFA is more than just agriculture and leadership - it's family. Data centers are popping up in more conversations across the state. Some are small in scale - others are "hyper" in size. Ben Jarboe travelled to Janesville this week where organizers were asking for answers and transparency on a proposed data center for a former GM plant location. Cassandra Pope, organizer of No Janesville Data Centers, shares her perspective on the process and the project.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Currently in Wisconsin there are 47 data centers proposed with one of these being in Janesville. These proposals have sparked concerns from the communities leading to rallies. Cassandra Pope is the organizer of the No Janesville Data Center group. She says one of the biggest worries is the not knowing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Varied progress so far on the corn for grain harvest in Wisconsin, according to the 2025 Harvest Progress Report from Wyffels Hybrids at https://www.wyffels.com/agronomy/harvest-progress-report. Today, we’re catching up with Luke Bird, district manager out of Rock, Walworth, Racine, and Kenosha counties. He says that as the government continues to be shut down and we don’t get a crop progress and condition report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Wyffels Harvest Progress Report is a great resource for not just harvest updates, but yield estimates. While visiting the harvest report, don't forget to plug and play with new Wyffels Hybrids selections on the Yield Calculator, also available on the Agronomy tab.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What we're hearing across all sectors of agriculture is that having a reliable workforce remains a number one challenge today. Karen Gefvert, chief policy officer for Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative and Voice of Milk, says it’s an issue the organization is deeply engaged in. In talking with Stephanie Hoff, Gefvert notes that this has been a 40-year battle. She says the current system doesn't work for dairy. Dairy farmers need an entry-level workforce. The only program that can address that is H2A, but dairy is prohibited from using it.Not much moisture in the latest forecast from Stu Muck. Temperatures remain on track for the last few days of October. Muck also notes a statewide FFA Foundation Auction that's happening now.Knowing a company's origins and roots can help explain how they do business. Pam Jahnke talks with Ashley Huhn about how the Steffes Group actually got started, and why they take pride in creating their own systems not just relying on third party services to handle business. Paid for by Steffes Group.Wisconsin dairy farmer, John Rosenow, has been a vocal proponent of immigration reform for decades. His dairy operation in the Waumandee Valley of western Wisconsin relies heavily on immigrant labor. Rosenow has joined a newly formed coalition called "Grow It Here" that's trying to advance meaningful immigration reform for agriculture. Rosenow says of his 18 full-time workers, 13 are from Mexico. Today's H2A visas don't work for dairy.The market's feeling more optimistic today after a weekend full of trade announcements out of SE Asia. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend tells Pam Jahnke that it's good news for corn, soybean meal, pork and beef. There's also still a buzz about potential trade developments with China. Still the gorilla in the room according to Heinberg.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Transportation of this fall's harvest faces some new challenges with market reconfiguration. Ben Jarboe talks with Dean Beaver, grain merchandiser in southern Wisconsin, who says the international market glitches have changed the prices available to farmers. That means that some are opting to store on farm, or in off-farm storage. Beaver sales available capacity is going to be tight. He also says monitoring water levels on the Mississippi is important, and watching basis price opportunities also plays a role.A little rain in this week's forecast, but temperatures will stay above average. Stu Muck spells out what he thinks we'll be working with.Approximately 40 million people could be facing food insecurity by the end of the week if Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits go away. In Wisconsin that program's called FoodShare. It too will end on 10/31. The Wisconsin Farmers Union, in cooperation with National Farmers Union and Farmers Union Enterprises, donated 35,000 pounds of pork to the Eastern Wisconsin Food Pantry in Appleton last week. Darren VonRuden, WFU President, tells Kiley Allan why they want to focus attention on the precarious situation many households face without this program.With USDA Farm Service Agency offices open, dairy producers might want to consider signing up for the relatively new Dairy Beef Risk Insurance program. Katie Burgess, dairy analyst with EverAg explains why that component of overall farm revenue is so key right now.With the threat of some big increases on fees levied against the states livestock marketing system, WI Assembly Representative, Travis Tranel, is trying to do what he can to head off the adjustments. He visits with Stephanie Hoff about the feedback he's gotten from the industry and farmers that will be impacted. He said although his hands may be tied as far as regulatory oversight, he can still implore DATCP to reconsider and deploy whatever legislative tools he's got to adjust the process.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to conservation, the Brattset Family Farm doesn’t just talk the talk - they graze! In Jefferson County, this mother-daughter duo, Weenonah Brattset and Kirsten Jurcek, have been rotationally grazing beef cattle since 2005. The entire family has transitioned the farm into a thriving ecosystem of healthy soil, clean water, and biodiversity. Their efforts to integrate cropland into perennial vegetation have made the land more productive. These are among the reasons they’re one of four finalists for the 2025 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. This honor celebrates those who go above and beyond to care for the land, water, and wildlife. Kirsten Jurcek explains to Stephanie Hoff how their conservation journey took root. Yes, a good chunk of Wisconsin witnessed a killing freeze overnight. The same pattern will repeat Friday night before temperatures moderate. That's the word from Stu Muck.Ben Jarboe finds out that Wisconsin farmers didn't use a lot of propane to dry down their crop this year. Cheryl Lytle, Executive Director of Wi propane gas association says 70% of propane is used to heat homes in the state. Right now, she says it appears that prices will remain steady and supplies look ample. She also stresses the safety element that must be respected when using propane for anything.The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources(DNR) has just concluded their annual state water survey. With increasing presence of things like data centers in rural communities, Adam Freihoefer, Water Use Section Manager at the DNR, says it's important to look at water like you would any other commodity you're using on your property. Just like electricity. Meteor it so you know what you're using. He says Wisconsin just came off one of the highest levels of groundwater since records were kept back in 1920.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the habits flies have of harboring and spreading diseases, it's no wonder people are annoyed when they buzz through their barn. Gene Spellman, Territory Sales Manager with Central Life Sciences, shares their company's simple solution: prevent flies before they start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Armed with a facelift and an emphasis on precision ag, Supreme International's rebranding is hot off the press. Willem Van Der Kooi is the Territory Sales Manager for the Great Lakes Territory and the SE United States. He tells us about the company's new look and the technology they're leaning into.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvest is a busy time of year in rural America, and while tractors are rolling through the fields, there’s a team behind the scenes keeping the field crews fueled. Katy Katzman farms in the Whitewater area with her husband, Wes, and their two adult sons, Jake and Aaron. In their business model, Katy holds the title of Business Manager. She tells us what she does to keep morale high during the long days of harvest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

National FFA Convention kicks off this week in Indianapolis, Oct. 29-Nov. 1. FFA members from across the U.S., representing all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, are expected to attend the convention, with a select few competing for national glory. This includes Wisconsin native Tyler Leuch. He’s currently a freshman at Iowa State University, studying agricultural business and finance after starting his own business, TL Clips. First, he tells us where his agricultural journey began in Waunakee, Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The comment period is over for the livestock fee increases proposed by the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection. In some cases, the increase would be up to 1,700 percent. DATCP has the rule-making authority to go through with its proposal, but the state Legislature is setting up a bill to keep prices where they are for Wisconsin livestock yards, haulers, and ultimately, producers. Representative Travis Tranel is the chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee. He tells us what’s on the table, and also, what he’s hearing from the agency. This legislation is looking for cosponsors in the Capitol before Wednesday. In Representative Travis Tranel’s words, it’s a tool in the toolbox to keep fees related to animal market, dealer, and trucker licenses at the same amount as published in December of 2024. The hope is that the bill won’t be needed, and DATCP does not put the increases of up to 1,700% on the ag industry. Instead, Tranel hopes it finds another way to fund the budget deficit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In New Zealand’s Waikato District, a region known as the heart of dairy country, Jo Sheridan is making waves. She was named the 2025 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year for her work on the farm and as demonstration manager on the Owl Farm. She shares her dairy farm story with us and makes some comparisons between dairying on an island and what she’s learned here about dairy farming in Wisconsin. She starts off by introducing us to New Zealand’s dairy industry, and she concludes by reminding us how connected farmers are no matter the distance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Water is the number one nutrient needed for animal health and is crucial for crop growth. In the state of Wisconsin, most agricultural operations are groundwater dependent. Adam Freihoefer, the Water Use Section Manager at the Department of Natural Resources, says it's crucial to be good stewards and understand your operation's need for water. He encourages people to treat water like any other commodity used on your property. For example, like electricity, you should monitor how much water you're using so you can budget accordingly. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to dairy policy, eyes tend to drift to Washington, D.C., but there’s plenty happening closer to home. Chad Zuleger, executive director of the Dairy Business Association, joins us to share what’s brewing at the state level and how those decisions impact farmers right here in Wisconsin. The conversation with Stephanie Hoff includes a grazing initiative to benefit beef on dairy markets; addressing problematic local ordinances and moratoriums on agriculture; and how DBA navigates agency regulation changes, including the latest effort by DATCP to increase livestock hauling and livestock yard fees.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The customers of Shamrock Cow Care are a little bigger than those that sit in most manicurists' chairs. Edwin “Skip” Blake owns Shamrock Cow Care and prides himself in helping herds across Wisconsin keep their hooves healthy. He tells us what we need to know about keeping hooves healthy year round.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MoDak Dairy has been in operation for over 130 years, and over that time, they’ve had to evolve with a changing ag landscape. The dairy milks 2600 head and breeds for milk quality as well as maintaining a beef-on-dairy program. Greg Moes explains how they utilize Akauski genetics to lean into a niche market.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is a chill in the air which means it is time to start running furnaces across the state. One great way to do this is with propane. Here to give some details on what is being seen within the propane industry is Cheryl Lytle. She is the Executive Director of Wisconsin Propane Gas Association and says that this year may require a bit more heat in our homes compared to recent times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Thursday October 16th President Trump let it slip that the US will be buying Argentine beef to lower prices for the consumers. On the other side the domestic beef industry had a knee-jerk reaction to the news, causing some stir. Here to give the producers' side of the story is Brady Zuck. He is a producer out of Ladysmith Wisconsin and former president of the Wisconsin Cattleman’s association. He says this announcement has come at the high end of the 10- year cycle that is seen in the beef industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Berg is taking a page from his father's playbook on the 500 acres he owns in Lafayette County. Berg is one of the finalists in the Leopold Conservation award cycle. One of the reasons he's being considered is the care and management he deploys on the driftless region he oversees. The Pecatonica River flows through his property and has caused a lot of issues over the course of time. Berg has installed all kinds of land management strategies to try and keep soil in place when the Pecatonica overflows. Pam Jahnke gets the story. Warmer temps during the day - but the threat of freezing overnight - is what Stu Muck is focused on. Muck says he thinks a killing freeze will impact northern Wisconsin as soon as tonight. Brady Zuck is a beef producer in Ladysmith that's concerned about what Argentinian beef could do to his domestic beef market. He talks to Ben Jarboe about the undeniable fact that U.S. consumers are still buying beef despite higher prices. That's why he's frustrated that the Trump Administration is talking about bringing in that beef to lower consumer prices. Zuck tells Jarboe that he depends on these "good times" to allow him to weather difficult years down the road. Freezing temperatures are not good news for Wisconsin potato growers. Ryan Walther from Alsum Farms says a freeze could introduce some bad chemistry to potato storage. Cody Koster, dairy analyst with EverAg says reopening the Farm Service Agency side of USDA is breathing a little life into the marketplace this morning. Koster says the latest global dairy report cast a negative shadow on U.S. prices. The world price for cheese and butter continues to sink on growing supplies. Is there still holiday demand out there? Koster says he thinks there may be - but it has to show itself pretty soon to be able to actually be used during the holidays.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we highlight another farm being celebrated as a finalist for the Leopold Conservation award. Jill Welke talks to Marathon County farmer, Pat Socha. While growing crops, the Sochas utilize precision technology, no-till practices, and cover crops to reduce erosion and prevent nutrient losses. Buffer strips and a pollinator plot promote biodiversity. To manage timber production and wildlife habitat, selective harvests are carefully timed every 15-20 years without clear cutting. Pat is a founding member and board member of Eau Pleine Partnership for Integrated Conservation.The wind may surprise you today with its speed - and its chill! Stu Muck says we should prepare to protect ourselves against the elements through the end of the week at least.Cooper Humphries says the rain this week has given operators a chance to catch up on book work, repairs and sleep! Humphries says he's pleased with how the remain crop is standing versus cool, wet weather elements. His Wyffels Wednesday update also includes how more traders, analysts and other farmers are turning to their website for real time harvest update. Paid for by Wyffels Hybrids.Thomas Montsma from Brandon is one of the giant pumpkin growers that populates Wisconsin. He tells Kiley Allan that the dedication to growing the biggest pumpkin begins long before the frost is out of Wisconsin's ground. He explains that he starts plants in his basement and then moves them outside under mini-greenhouses to really start sizing up. With the global marketplace being less than friendly these days, many farms are choosing to store their 2025 crops and wait for better times. But is there enough storage out there to hold it all? Stephanie Hoff talks about that subject with grain merchandiser Alex Beaver out of southeast and south central Wisconsin. He tells us not just how the crop is looking coming in, but where it’s going with China boycotting beans. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the farm or on the trail, the ability to maneuver rough terrain is something some people take for granted. Monica Spaeni is the President and Cofounder of Access Ability Wisconsin. She tells us about the organization's chairs and the opportunities they bring to people in rural communities who use them. Their chairs tilt with the terrain, and they can go over corn stalks and rocks. This allows users to participate in on-farm activities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HPAI H5N1 or as many know it, the Bird Flu. This virus is well known within the agriculture industry for its impact on poultry and the ability to spread to Dairy cattle. Recently here in Wisconsin we have seen positive cases in both commercial and backyard flocks. That begs the question does the action plan by DATCP look different for positive cases in these drastically different sized flocks? The DATCP State Veterinarian Dr. Darlene Konkle says that there actually are some differences. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Elkhorn, Wisconsin, technology is meeting tradition at Hurtgenlea Holsteins. Adam Hurtgen and his fiancée farm alongside his parents, managing 100 acres and 300 dairy cattle, all with the help of cutting-edge tools like robotic milkers and a new farm application that tracks data straight from inside the cows themselves. The results? A healthier herd, a more efficient operation, and a glimpse into the future of dairy farming. Adam shares how the smaXtec bolus has transformed life on the farm and offers advice for others looking to make the leap into precision dairy technology.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to conservation, the Brattset Family Farm doesn’t just talk the talk - they graze! In Jefferson County, this mother-daughter duo, Weenonah Brattset and Kirsten Jurcek, have been rotationally grazing beef cattle since 2005. The entire family has transitioned the farm into a thriving ecosystem of healthy soil, clean water, and biodiversity. Their efforts to integrate cropland into perennial vegetation have made the land more productive. These are among the reasons they’re one of four finalists for the 2025 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. This honor celebrates those who go above and beyond to care for the land, water, and wildlife. Kirsten Jurcek joins us to share how their conservation journey took root.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thomas Montsma is from Brandon, WI and has been growing competitive giant pumpkins for over a decade. The giant pumpkin growers are working towards growing a pumpkin that weighs 3000 pounds. Growing these pumpkins requires a lot of tender loving care (TLC). Thomas tells us about the pests, disease pressures and logistics to grow these giant pumpkins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state is moving through harvest, with many getting started on corn. With the soybeans about wrapped up it is a good time to see how the industry is doing when it comes to storage, transportation and quality. Dylan Beaver a Regional Agronomy Sales Director out of south-central Wisconsin says that due to the amount of soybeans in storage, finding space for the corn may become an issue. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin potato growers are battling both uncooperative weather and tough market conditions this fall. Prolonged heat delayed harvest across the Midwest, forcing farmers to work overnight to protect crop quality, while the frost now threatens what’s left in the ground. Despite decent yields, prices have fallen under pressure from oversupply and reduced demand. Alsum Farms Manager Ryan Walther says they’re hoping for a market turnaround soon, as smaller operations face increasing difficulty weathering low prices and tight margins.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With rain events popping up across Wisconsin, the corn harvest has slowed just a little. Cooper Humphries, Wyffels District Sales Manager, says the plots he's been able to evaluate so far are performing well - especially the early season varieties. Despite an onslaught of disease pressure this year, corn remains standing. Humphries also reminds growers that their website is acting as an aggregator of harvest information from all across the Midwest. Check it out and see where you stand with harvest tempo, and performance.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin has four outstanding finalists for the annual Leopold Conservation award. Jill Welke introduces us to one. Andy Bensend has been practicing no-till for decades on his farmland in Barron County. Bensend says he's always looking for new ways to suppress weeds while disturbing the soil very little across his 3,800 acres. One of his advisors is actually a giant pumpkin grower that inspires him with unique ways of keeping weeds away. That nip in the air will stick around this week. Stu Muck says that daytime highs this week probably aren't going to get much higher than 50 degrees. Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group joins Pam Jahnke to talk about unique sales they've consigned for the month. Huhn also notes that they still enjoy a live auction despite their heavy presence with their website. Paid for by Steffes Group. Offhand comments from the president have tanked cattle prices. While on Air Force One, President Trump said he was considering importing beef (and maybe cattle) from Argentina. Collin Woodall, CEO of the Nat'l Cattlemen's Beef Association says that's disappointing. Woodall says they've had a good working relationship with the administration and USDA, but this direction is a surprise. Markets are still reacting to that slip of the tongue on Friday. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing tells Pam Jahnke that without actual facts, traders react heavily to those kinds of social media posts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.