MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

The Shelton homestead lies in Clyde Wisconsin that was started by Pat's Great, Great, Great grandfather in about 1856. Pat currently tends to 250 acres of property and his mother was the one who got their 100 year anniversary of the farm. Currently the farm has 30-40 acres that in enrolled in the CRP program. While another 30 acres is being farmed by and organic farmer in Clyde. The rest is rented out. The family stopped actively farming it in the late 50s and moved off the farm. Today Pat manages the CRP land and upkeep of the property and refurbishing of the original barn that's still. He hopes that one of his three kids continues the work. His youngest son has been showing some interest in partaking in the work. Back in the 40's their family actually harvested Hemp and creeps up once in a while. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kendall and Greg Peterson of the Peterson Farm Bros rose to fame in 2012 with their viral parody video “I’m Farming and I Grow It,” a twist on LMFAO’s hit song. Since then, they’ve continued using social media to bridge the gap between farmers and consumers through music videos and educational content. Stephanie Hoff caught up with the brothers at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, where they shared how their advocacy not only promotes agriculture in a positive light but also supports their central Kansas farm and growing families through speaking appearances and public engagement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drones are becoming a bigger and more important tool in production agriculture. Kiley Allan finds out about the diverse applications they can assist with from Julia Guerra, Solutions Architect and a licensed drone pilot at FlyGuys. He says there's a multitude of ways farmers can use drones to provide supplemental information to their operations. He also says this technology can help not only in row crop management, but livestock operations too.Dangerous temperatures and humidity ahead for the weekend. Stu Muck says the only bright spot is the possibility of some rain moving in as soon as Saturday afternoon.Stephanie Hoff visits with Dawn Roth of Roth's Sugarbush in Cadott while at the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis. Dawn chairs the Wisconsin Maple Syrup Association's booth in the Wisconsin Products Pavilion. She tells us about the tasty treats they have in store for fairgoers as they taste their way through Wisconsin agriculture -- the dollars support homegrown syrup and young producers.While the Wisconsin wheat harvest rolls on, there's another crop being harvested you might have missed. Mint! Richard Gumz of Gumz Farms shares what the start of mint harvest has provided. They are seeing a decrease in oil production this harvest season. While they are exploring other possibilities, they suspect the cloudy days in early July, as well as the smoke haze, greatly affected sunlight penetration. It will be a matter of time (7-10 days) to determine if it changes throughout the remainder of the season. Kiley Allan has the details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s farms run on advanced technology, face high financial risk, and operate under ever-changing policy landscapes. Yet even with all that, farmers still find time to serve their communities—whether it’s mentoring youth or volunteering at the county fair. That’s exactly the kind of well-rounded excellence the Wisconsin Outstanding Young Farmer Program seeks to recognize. Cindy Matton leads the program. She joins us to share the history, goals, and application details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clinton Farms is a 1,000-cow dairy operation, with 850 cows actively milking and a total herd of 2,200 animals on-site. With roots dating back four generations, the family has adopted modern technology and sustainable practices to keep the business thriving while maintaining environmental responsibility. Clinton Farms shows how energy-efficient systems can power productivity. Pam Jahnke visits with co-owner Brad Clinton, and Focus on Energy Advisor, Jessica Mlsna, about the projects they've partnered on to save Clinton Farms not only money on energy, but also reduce their carbon footprint! Energy Efficiency Upgrades with Focus on EnergyClinton Farms has implemented a comprehensive series of energy-saving improvements in partnership with Focus on Energy:Key Projects:• LED Lighting (Installed 2018–2023):o Over 180 high-efficiency fixtures across barns, parlors, and outdoor spaces.• Variable Frequency Drives on:o 70+ circulation and ventilation fans.o Dairy vacuum and milk pumps.o Primary and secondary water systems.• Automatic barn fans and curtains tied to temperature sensors.• High-efficiency livestock waterers.• Plate heat exchangers and refrigeration heat recovery systems to recapture heat from milk cooling.• Condensing hot water boilers for greater efficiency.Results & SavingsAnnual Energy Savings:• 454,454 kWh.Annual Cost Savings:• $57,352.Focus on Energy Incentives Received:• $35,458.Environmental Impact:• 673,127 pounds of reduced CO2 emissions each year. This is equivalent to taking 70 cars off the road for a year. You can contact a Focus on Energy advisor to start saving on your project. Whether it's new construction or a renovation, getting them involved early in the process could pay big dividends. Again, go to Focus on Energy or call 8007627077.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tracing back to the original settlers of the family in New Glarus, both Klassy farms have been in the family for over 150 years. The farm included dairy hogs and crops growing up. They are of Swiss heritage which is featured on their family t-shirt which their grandson made for the celebration breakfast. They had some hardship along the way. Larry's dad lost his mother when his dad was only 15 years old. Larry himself got in a tractor accident about 50 years ago. Along with Larry losing his wife about a year ago who played a huge role in the continuation of the farm. Larry's Dad was a hard worker and rented the farm starting at the age of 15. Larry's daughter Amy is the second oldest of the family. She mostly milked cows and helped with hay. Her brothers worked mostly with equipment. The farm will hopefully stay in the family as generations carry on. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rural hospitals are applauding a move by the state that ensures they will get adequate reimbursement for Medicaid. It happened in two ways. First, the state budget raised access payments. This is essentially a reimbursement to hospitals to cover the care of Medicaid patients. The other item in the state budget was a tripling of hospital assessments, or a revenue tax. That money will help sustain the Medicaid program AND invest in Wisconsin hospitals, explains Jeremy Levin. Levin is the director of advocacy for the Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative, representing about 40 member hospitals. He has the details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alex Beaver is the crop specialist for Insight FS, with a footprint circling Jefferson from Lake Mills to East Troy. He says the wheat harvest is about finished in his region, and growers have been satisfied with test weights, low disease levels, and yields. Dry conditions last fall prevented some wheat stands from reaching full potential. The summer rain slowed some harvest. With a good yield and value-added straw bales, Beaver says growers have been satisfied with the balance sheet. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Pierce County Centennial Farm has been in the family since 1917. Ken Peterson's grandfather purchased the 40-acre farm. He raised pigs, chickens, cows, and horses. Ken's father got the farm after World War II. His father had a stroke in 1998, leaving Ken to inherit the farm when he passed. Ken recalls a lot of struggles that the family went through, such as mortgage payments in the 1920s that didn't get settled until Ken's father took over. He also recalls doing a lot of the milking growing up and being able to use only one bucket. Ken doesn't miss the cold mornings of milking and using the cows to warm up, but he cherishes those memories now as he rents out the farm. The future, nonetheless, is bright as his granddaughter and great-grandkids will continue the farm. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gary and his late wife, Gertrude, purchased the farm from her parents, which started in Gertrude's grandparents' possession. Gary and Gertrude raised their kids on the farm, which is now a beef cow-calf operation and row crop family business. Two of their sons are auctioneers and serve on the state auctioneering board. In addition to farming, the sons are each former state auctioneer champions and travel for work. The Crawford County Sesquicentennial Farm used to be a dairy. Gary said a lot of small square bales were made and cows milked by hand. Gary adds that, as his wife passed away in February, she would be super proud of how far the family has come and where it will continue to go. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Doug and Kari's farm started as a dairy farm run by Doug's great-grandmother. The farm passed to Doug's grandfather and father before becoming his. He sold the dairy cows in 2000, raised some steers, and now grows solely cash crops. They milked 42 cows, had 500 laying hens, some pigs, and harvested crops while doing custom silo filling. His grandfather experienced some hardships during the Great Depression while farming. Doug is the youngest of two sisters and fondly recalls showing cattle in 4H. His wife, Kari, did not come from a farm and moved here from Minnesota. The future of the farm is uncertain due to urban development.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the photo from 1946, you can see the government's first attempts to stop soil erosion by including terracing in the fields. David Brennan says this took place at his family's Sesquicentennial Farm in Sauk County. He recalls the story of big equipment coming in to put terraces in the side of the hill. This is a common practice today in row cropping. His grandfather was the one who purchased the now 157-year-old farm. David and his wife own it today. In the 1960s, they took the terraces out and went to contour strips. They are strictly no-till for the field management. They sold the cows in 2007 and went from milking cows to raising beef. David and wife have a daughter and son-in-law who are interested in continuing the farming tradition.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Meet the new executive director of Wisconsin Farmers Union, Danielle Endvick! We caught up with her at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days. She gives us a sneak peek at what's on tap for their annual conference, including how they are growing relationships between farmers, rural businesses, and the community. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin Farm Technology Days wraps up at 4 p.m. today. Don't forget to swing by Wisconsin Farmers Union at Booth 607. President Darin Von Ruden is concerned about the latest dairy farm numbers released by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. That's why he's mobilizing members to call on legislators to advance farm priorities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck gives insight into whether we can expect to see the smoke roll out anytime soon and if we will get some rain to help the crops. Farm Director Pam Jahnke is joined by the Wisconsin FFA Association Executive Director, Cheryl Zimmerman, to give some insight on the current ag teacher shortage. Kiley Allan talks with Richard Gumz from Gumz Farm, about one of the more unique specialty crops grown in Wisconsin. That being mint. He gives insight into the current lackluster mint harvest. Temps are looking to warm up some again this weekend so Aubrey Schlimgen has a chat with Melissa Ploeckelman-Brown, an Outreach Specialist with the National Farm Medicine Center, to give some tips on how to stay cool while working out in the heat. Jenny Wackershauser, a Dairy Broker with EverAg, joins the show to give us an update on all things dairy markets. She says that June saw record exports in both cheese and butter.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new bill is circulating Congress, and it’s called the Save Our Bacon Act. The Save Our Bacon Act aims to restore interstate commerce as the latest response to Proposition-12. Morgan Worek is the Program and Marketing Director at the Wisconsin Pork Association. She shares what the bill would mean for the pork industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Gumz of Gumz Farms shares what the start of mint harvest has produced. They are seeing a decrease in oil production this harvest season. While they are exploring other possibilities, they suspect the cloudy days in early July, as well as the smoke haze, greatly affected sunlight penetration. It will be a matter of time to determine if it changes throughout the remainder of the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck joins the show to give us a look at if we can expect rain in this critical growing period. David Giehtbrock, a Fish Culture Section Leader with the DNR, gives us a more detailed look into how the state works to stock fish in our lakes. He says this year they stocked over 1 Million Chinook Salmon into Lake Michigan. Stephanie Hoff talks with Kelly Wilfert, the Extension Farm Management Outreach Specialist with UW, on how an expiring legislation may leave farmers needing to pay an increased “Death Tax”. Jeremy Williams the Owner of American Drone to see what he has planned as far as drone demonstrations for the 2025 Farm Technology Days. Farm Director Pam Jahnke has a conversation with Randy Cath from the Steffes Group to give a deeper dive into the work they do behind the scenes when preparing for an auction.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Megan Salentine's schedule has been nothing short of exciting after being crowned Wisconsin Fairest of the Fairs. Living out of a suitcase has brought her incredible opportunities and memories!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck gives a detailed forecast for the state as the State Fair and Wisconsin Farm Technology Days get underway. Stephanie Hoff has a chat with EMS Outreach Program Manager James Small with the Wisconsin Office of Rural Health about how they are at risk of not being able to respond to emergencies in a timely manner due to decreases in staffing, funding, and training. It is the first day of the Annual Farm Technology days that is taking place at Clinton Farms in Bear Creek, the Fabulous Farm Babe Pam Jahnke was able to catch up with Janet Keller, the new General Manager of the event to share some of her history as well as what can be expected from the show. Market Advisor John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins the show to give an inside look into how the markets are shifting. He says the soybean markets are low, but the beef prices are high.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Janet Keller is serving as the new General Manager starting this year for the Farm technology days. Keller is no stranger to Farm technology days. She used to be an exhibitor every day with a genetics company and was on the board of directors as well. There are many exciting things in store besides the progressive scale of Clinton Farms. Tent city and filed demonstrations are back and unique to this area. Keller says that they are shifting the focus to make sure that we are reaching and accommodating to all those in attendance. Along with wanting to keep farm technology days hosting on dairy farms to help Wisconsin Dairy Farm exposure. They will also have 400-500 exhibitors at the show as well. One being American Drone, and another drone company to have that engaging experience with new technology. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farm Technology days is back this year hosted by Clinton Farms. It will be taking place August 5-7th in Bear Creek WI. Pam Jhanke chats with one of the host family members Jim Clinton. They say its family tradition as they will now be hosting the event 3 times. They hosted the 25th anniversary Farm technology days and Jim was only 22 years old when his parents hosted. Attendance was 120,000 people. Then Jim and his wife Sue bought the farm and hosted it again in 2003. His hope was to host the 75th anniversary of Farm Technology Days in 2028, but were approached this year being that no one else had offered. Jim also touches on how different the technology has changed over time by not only with the show, but with their own farm as well. As now they milk 850 cows in a 50 stall rotary parlor. They also farm over 2,400 acres of cropland too. Including some sauerkraut production for 30 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alfalfa is a known crop that is grown all over Wisconsin for livestock consumption. But it is also a productive cover crop and has many sustainability aspects when its used as a cover crop. Dr. Emily Meccage is the Senior Manger of Research and development for Forage Genetics International. She says farmers look to be more sustainable while also looking towards profit. Alfalfa answers a lot of those problems and questions. In positions like hers researchers look to focus on sustainability to keep farmers going for the next generation. Dr. Emily Meccage also touches on incentives for those that are able to be successful with growing these crops, but also knows in some areas it can be more difficult. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Bosold and Wisconsin Farmers Union's Layne Cozzolino discuss feeding program woes and resilience following federal funding changes. Cozzolino is the director of special projects with WFU.Canadian wildfire smoke continues to be the culprit for poor air quality. Sticky weather is expected later this week.There’s plenty of county fair fun to be had this summer and into September. Oftentimes, music is a key attraction. Chris Hesse and Melissa Wolken are talent buyers for fairs and festivals across the Midwest. They tell us what's hot right now for county fair entertainment.The MAHA Commission will release its Make Our Children Healthy Again Strategy on August 12. Brian Glenn, director of government affairs for the American Farm Bureau Federation, submitted policy recommendations to improve the farmers’ ability to meet the needs of a healthy America.Zoe Nelson tells us about the entertainment at Wisconsin Farm Technology Days, including the Peterson Farm Bros!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taking out loans is many times a necessity for farmers whether it be for equipment, buildings, or other inputs, and Wisconsin is no different. Darla Sikora the Director of Agricultural Loans with Citizens State Bank of Loyal is here to give insight into what Wisconsin Farms are most commonly taking the loans out for right now. She says that currently they are seeing a surprising amount of loans for forage trailers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flavor is on the menu at Wisconsin Pork Association's Pork Shoppe. Morgan Worek is the Program and Marketing Director at the Wisconsin Pork Association. Located across from the Colosseum and the Wisconsin Products Pavilion, the food stand is serving up Butterfly Pork Chop sandwiches, Pork Burgers and Pork Chop On A sticks. The pork is raised local to the Midwest, much of it coming from Wisconsin. Worek gives us insight on the new campaign for pork, and tells us how to cook a moist and flavorful pork chop every time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie's Pizza can boast a third place finish in the Sporkies contest at the state fair. Their winning dish is Mexican Street Corn Pizza. It was inspired by their staff that has a strong Hispanic culture. It was a team effort in perfecting the dish. Charlie's granddaughter gave us a peak behind the curtain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marion grew up on her families farm and was farming since the young age of 3 helping with little tasks. Her sister had acquired her families farm shortly their father passed away. He was in the process of turning it over into her sisters possession in 1986 when he passed. Luckily that transition was easier as Marion and her sister were already working partners for the farm. Marion went to schooling at multiple universities and was in school for 18 years, even earning a masters degree in science. She was not planning on farming until her sister passed leaving Marion with the farm. Marion was 35 years old at that time. She farmed on her own with the help of some part time employees over the years. The Rider family raised Registered Holsteins and have taken pride in their genetics over time and have their generational cows to this day. That's where Jesse Meyer now plays a role in the continuation of their farm. Jesse started helping Marion when he was 10 years old on the farm. As Marion has no immediate family. His wife also helped for 10 years and their daughter even helps as well. Being Jesse had come from a farm family it came naturally to take on Marion's farm work load as their relationship grew and she got older. Now the plan is for Jesse Meyer to keep the farm going, even though there is no blood relation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom and Elizabeth Pryce settled in the U.S. in 1846 with their children. Their eldest son, Edward, was naturalized that same year and moved to Albany Township, where he and his wife built a log cabin, later replaced by a stone house. They had 16 children before his wife passed at age 56, the same year Edward lost several of their children. Edward’s son, William, was born on the farm and spent most of his life farming. He married Ella and passed away at 77 at his son Burt’s home. Burt, one of four sons, was the grandfather of Cindy’s husband, Greg. The farm was passed down through the family, and Greg eventually bought out his siblings to keep it. Today, Cindy’s daughters own 75 acres of the original farm, and her son owns some as well. They continue to farm the land after Greg’s passing two years ago. The original barn, built in 1915 with help from Greg’s uncle at age 14, still stands with updated siding and now serves as an event venue. Twice a year, the farm hosts a market with around 50 local vendors from the Sugar River area offering food, drinks, crafts, and more. Cindy’s family runs a food stand, and friends offer coffee and slushies. She hopes to grow the event and attract more well-known vendors with better advertising.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff visits with Dawn Roth of Roth's Sugarbush in Cadott while at the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis. Dawn chairs the Wisconsin Maple Syrup Association's booth in the Wisconsin Products Pavilion. She tells us about the tasty treats they have in store for fairgoers as they taste their way through Wisconsin agriculture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag meteorologist Stu Muck says we are looking at some very comfortable weather, but also a lot of smoke for the weekend. The past couple days if you stepped outside and noticed a smog covering the sky. This is once again the Canadian wildfires making an appearance. Although these fires are not in Wisconsin, the state is still helping fight them. Stephanie Hoff learns more about how Wisconsin shares resources for these massive fires from Forest Ranger Mark Sass The labor shortage is nothing new to the agriculture industry, but recent trends show that it may be partially self-inflicted. Ben Jarboe chats with Lynn Paulson, the Senior Vice President of Agribusiness Development for Bell Bank, on how this generation is producing far less kids than are needed for farm labor. Wisconsin Farm Tech Days will be in full swing from August 5th through the 7th at Clinton Farms in Bear Creek. Stephanie Hoff gets the details from Farm Tech Days planning Committee member Don Zietlow on what the field demonstrations look like for this year. Kiley Allan talks with Morgan Worek, the Program and Marketing Director of the Wisconsin Pork Association, about all the things they have going on at the State Fair.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Olson Family Farm was recognized as a Century Farm in 1985 after 110 years of continuous family ownership. Ole Herdal Olson (born October 1807) and Dorthea Jensdatter Stennan Riise (born October 1809) were united in marriage in May 1838 in Tolga, Hedemark, Norway. To this union there were six children: Ole Iver born in 1838; Marit born in 1841; Carrie born in 1843; Johanne born in 1846; Anna born in 1849; and Jens born on October 26, 1853. They emigrated from Norway to America and were among the early settlers in the Township of Leon. Ole and Dorthea purchased the present farm in 1875 from John Cannon. Mr. Cannon was a lumberman from the state of New York that came to Wisconsin around 1842 and settled on about 600 acres in the Township of Leon in what is now known as Cannon Valley. Halver and Rebecca Bergerson came to America with their six children including daughter Caroline Bergerson Brangrud who was born in Holand, Norway on born December 7, 1860. They came to America in 1872 when she was 11 ½ years old. Halver was a successful farmer and stock raiser, keeping his farm well stocked with a good grade of horses, cattle and hogs. He was a man of noble Christian character, and he and his wife were honored members of the Lutheran church and had great influence in the community. Jens Olson and Caroline Bergerson were united in marriage in the Township of Leon on March 12, 1878. Jens assumed the role as main farmer of the small dairy operation after the passing of his father Ole in April 1879. Jens was successful in his operations as a farmer, and his farm was highly improved by cultivation and buildings, and the modern residence erected in 1904, with the commodious outbuildings, make theirs one of the up-to-date country homes of the valley. He was kind-hearted and generous and a devoted member of the Lutheran church, having the confidence and esteem of all who knew him. To the marriage of Jens and Caroline there were twelve children: Johanna born 1878 (never married); Dora born 1880 (married Hans Hoitomt); Oscar born 1882 (never married); Harold born 1884 (never married); Ida born 1887 (married Joseph Anderson); Augusta born 1889 (married Angus Morrison); Nora born 1892 (married Earl Anderson); Olga born 1894 (married Irving Thomesen); Josef born 1896 (married Elizabeth Betty); Leonard born 1898 (married Selma Kolbo); and the twins William (married Sarah Kolbo) and Walter (married Alice Erickson) born 1902. Jens passed away in May 1904, leaving Caroline to farm over 250 acres of land and maintain the dairy herd. Her children Johanna, Oscar and Harold lived close by and assisted with raising their brothers and sisters as well as the farming chores. Caroline very ably brought up her family, continuing in the teaching of the Lutheran Church. The youngest son, Walter, married Alice (Breitenfield-Erickson) on October 24, 1932, in Galena, Illinois. To this union there were three children: Jane born April 1933 (married Lavern Chapiewsky); James A. born August 1934 (married Joan Melloh) and Joyce born April 1937 (married Forrest Johnson). Caroline passed away on July 14, 1934, and the farm was left in the hands of her six sons. Johanna, Oscar, and Harold lived on a 100-acre parcel and farmed another 100-acre parcel. Walter and Alice were able to purchase the remaining 154 acres from his brothers on April 21, 1947. Walter passed away July 29, 1968, seventeen years to the day after his twin brother William passed away (in 1951). James A. married Joan Melloh on October 10, 1964. To this union there were two children: James J. born in September 1966 (married Julie Benedict), and Lori A., born in July 1971 (married Marcus Volden). Alice sold the farm of 154 acres to James and Joan on May 15, 1978, and she moved to Sparta. James A. changed the farm operation from dairy to beef cows and honorably served in the Army National Guard, Army reserves, and on active duty. On December 7, 1998, James A. passed half the farm to his son James J. Both children honorably served in the military; James J. enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1984 and retired as a Major in 2007, and Lori enlisted in the Army in 1989 and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel in 2025. James J. then married Julie Benedict on October 27, 2001, and to this marriage there were two children: Caroline (named after her Great-Grandmother), born in April 200,3 and James-Dean (named after both of his Grandfathers), born in February 2006. On July 24, 2006, James A. passed his half of the farm to James-Dean. He worked as a mechanic for the Monroe County Highway Department and farmed the family farm. Even though he had Allis-Chalmers tractors, he enjoyed doing his farm work with his Percheron horses. He was a fixture at many local parades, fairs, and plowing contests. He was invited on numerous occasions to pull the caged lion at the Great Circus Parade in Milwaukee. He was a mainstay at the World Percheron Congress, culminating with him being crowned the World Champion Farm Team in 2006 in Lexington, Virginia. On July 7, 2008, James J. and James-Dean purchased an additional 27.9 acres from a neighbor, bringing the total number of acres to 181. James A. passed away on February 19, 2011; Lori received the horses and associated equipment while James J. and James-Dean slowly transitioned the farm from horse-drawn equipment to more modern mechanical ag equipment. James-Dean loved the outdoors, especially hunting and driving all the equipment. Sadly, he was killed in an automobile accident on the day before the start of his junior year of high school in August 2022. James J., Julie, and Caroline established a Foundation to carry on his legacy and as well as farming grain crops (corn, soybeans, and hay). Pictured: Jim - Julie - Caroline - James Dean Olson at the Marine Corps Birthday - November 2009See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a big year for this Centennial Farm in Eau Claire County – between a dairy breakfast and a state award, 2025 is one for the books. With the help of Compeer Financial, the Mid-West Farm Report is recognizing farms and homesteads that have belonged to the same family for more than 100 years. These farms have also been awarded by the state of Wisconsin. Felicia Erickson and Dave Messerschmidt farm just south of Fall Creek. Dave is the fifth generation on the 118-year-old Century Farm. They’ve also just hosted the fourth annual Eau Claire County Breakfast on the Farm, where they welcomed about 2,000 people to the dairy. Felicia and Dave tell us about the farm’s history. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chairman John Yingling of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors tells us about new improvements to State Fair Park to make these historical grounds more accessible and fair-goer-friendly. He says dollars were passed in the recent state budget to make more improvements before the State Fair's 175th celebration in 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now, there are about 70 active wildfires burning over a million acres in the U.S. Almost all of it is out West -- but we're seeing the effects here at home with air quality advisories. The Wisconsin DNR has mobilized its own wildfire fighters to help combat these flames out West and in Canada. Marc Sass is a forest ranger covering the southeast part of Wisconsin across 10 counties. He also trains local fire departments on how to put out wildfires. Marc is waiting for the call to head out West now to help the fire suppression effort. He says it’s not uncommon for states to share resources. Wisconsin has been busy mobilizing resources, including personnel and engines, to over 65 out-of-state fire assignments so far this year. DNR staff have been mobilized to 12 different states and provinces. Three of our wildland fire engines are also currently stationed in Oregon. Meanwhile, here at home, we may be seeing the smoke, but our wildfire risk is minimal thanks to the recent rains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephanie Hoff catches up with the 78th Alice in Dairyland Sarah Hagenow during the Wisconsin State Fair. Sarah is almost a month into her role as the state's agricultural ambassador. She tells us where you can find Alice during the "best 11 days of summer." Sarah is most looking forward to sharing fair memories with fairgoers, including her own eight years of showing dairy in West Allis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Patrick Brodhagen shares the details with Ben Jarboe.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck gives an update on some rain amounts where in certain areas accumulated over an inch and says we are looking at clear skies for the State Fair. Even though she’s gone this week the Fabulous Farm Babe didn’t forget about us, Pam Jahnke talks with DATCP secretary Randy Romanski on the recently announced Governors budget from the agency’s perspective. With it being the first day of the State Fair it is the perfect time to learn what to know before attending. Kiley Alan has a chat with Tess Kerksen the State Fair Director of Marketing and Communications to tell you everything you need to know before you go. Ben Jarboe has a conversation with Dr. Luiz Ferraretto, an Extension Specialist in Dairy Nutrition, taking a look into some feed considerations for lactating cows. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The roots of our farm (today called Pine Hill Farm) run deep, tracing back to 1846 when our forefather, Christian Neitzel, homesteaded this very land, including its fertile marsh. With his wife Sophia and three sons, he journeyed here with fellow Pomeranians, driven from Trechel, Germany, by secular rule and religious persecution, seeking a new beginning in Lebanon, Wisconsin. Upon arrival, these resilient immigrants quickly constructed makeshift cabins against the harsh cold. Many learned vital survival skills, including how to build shelters and even teepees, from the local Ho-Chunk Indians. Chronicles from that era consistently describe only peaceful and mutually helpful interactions between the German settlers and the Indigenous people. Working together, these early ancestors tirelessly cleared dense grasses and brush to create clearings for homes and to sow winter wheat. Without sawmills or equipment, this dangerous and arduous labor took 5-10 years to establish up to 30 acres of tillable land. Once stoves and fire sources were in place, their meals were sustained by the bounty of the land: deer, turkey, quail, partridge, and other wild game and fowl. The winters brought heavy snow and blustery winds, demanding layer upon layer of cotton and wool for warmth. Leather shoes were waterproofed with animal fat against the ice. While the Rock River provided ample drinking water, in winter, our ancestors melted snow to sustain both themselves and their animals. Their perseverance truly laid the foundation for Pine Hill Farm. Eventually, the original cabin home was taken down, and in 1866, Christian’s eldest son, Johann Neitzel, built the farmhouse that stands today on the land. Outbuildings and small sheds have perished, but still standing is also the original, large wooden dairy barn. I vividly remember summer days when my dad baled hay. My cousins and I would perch atop the hay wagon, enjoying the bumpy ride as the tractor pulled us home. The journey was especially exhilarating when we were baling down in the marsh, creating quite an adventure. In those days, before city neighbors, televisions, and smartphones, our cousins truly were our best entertainment. Frequent sleepovers meant my memories are rich with details of their nearby homes, too. I cherished all my aunts and uncles, and was doubly blessed to grow up with both sets of grandparents, which offered wonderful opportunities to learn practical skills like sewing, cooking, and cleaning. My parents, like so many of their generation, worked incredibly hard from dawn tilldusk, yet they were always incredibly supportive of my sisters and me.Beginning with the immigration of Christian Neitzel in 1846, the eldest son, Johann Neitzel, continued the family's legacy, building the enduring brick home that still stands on the property today. The farm then passed to Johann's son, August Neitzel. When August tragically lost his first wife, Augustina Ulrich/Neitzel was sent from Germany to become his wife, helping to raise his children and tend to the home—a testament to the farm's vital needs. Following tradition, the farm was passed to the youngest son, Raymond Neitzel (my grandfather), who married my grandmother, Elsie Gneuwuch. Then, my father, Arnold Neitzel, and his wife, my mother, Luanna Neitzel, purchased the farm from his father, Raymond. As the only one of four daughters to express interest in continuing the farm's legacy, my husband, Jerry Groehler, and I proudly purchased the land. This marked the first time ownership transitioned from the Neitzel surname to Groehler, yet the family dedication remained. In 2011, our oldest daughter, Jackie Phillips, and her husband Jon Phillips, moved into a home adjacent to the farm. Their vision led to a significant transformation: in 2017, they successfully transitioned approximately 80 tillable acres to USDA-certified organic farmland, now cultivating organic cash crops, grasses, and organic hemp. Building on this foundation, our three daughters collectively launched Pine Hill Farm in 2019, seamlessly integrating the farm into their holistic wellness business. Today, the farm continues to thrive, actively nurtured and loved by our children and grandchildren. With several of the younger generations already expressing future plans to stay involved, we eagerly anticipate that the stewardship of the farm will proudly carry on for generations to come.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Keeping the family's Centennial Farm in agricultural production is a must for Altine Graper Hesebeck, the third generation on the Graper Farm, which originated with her husband's grandfather. With the help of Compeer Financial, the Mid-West Farm Report is recognizing farms and homesteads that have belonged to the same family for more than 100 years. These farms have also been awarded by the state of Wisconsin. Today, we meet a Dodge County Century Farm that has belonged to the Graper family for several generations. Altine has the farm story. Pictured: Taken when we were milk producers. The big barn has since been destroyed by fire.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summers Christmas tree farm is operated by Bill and Judy Summers. During the summer months, ideal weather is crucial for Christmas tree development. Bill tells Kiley Allan about the summer care of trees, the effects of weather, and the evolution of consumer tree demand.Today's Compeer Financial ag weather update calls for a cool front bringing rain and a Canadian wildfire smoke advisory.Pam Jahnke checks in with Randy Cath of the Steffes Group on big auctions they have lined up.What's old is new again at Wisconsin State Fair Park. Ben brings us a story about the "new" Dairy Building.Joe Tomandl, a fourth-generation dairy farmer in central Wisconsin and founder of both the Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship and the newly formed Dairy Grazing Alliance, says he’s proud of how far the movement has come since 2010. The Alliance, he explains, builds on that foundation to grow the dairy grazing sector as a whole.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin State Fair is a time to experience everything that makes the state great whether it be the people, the animals, or the food. Now one staple of this fair has gotten a facelift. The building that serves up the infamous creme puffs may look a bit different when you enter this year. Tess Kerksen the Director of Marketing and Communications with the Wisconsin State Fair says that the newly renovated and renamed Dairy Building is ready to serve up large amounts of Wisconsin’s favorite sweet treat. She also says that once the fair is done the building can be rented for events.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin State Fair is right around the corner, and there are a few things you need to know before and you go. Tess Kerksen, the Director of Marketing and Communications with the Wisconsin State Fair, has the admission and parking details.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. David Kohl is a Professor of Agricultural and Applied Economics Virginia Tech. He tells us about the changes in land values we have seen in recent history and what we can learn from them. He predicts what changes we can anticipate from the growing trends of artificial intelligence and women involvement in agricultural business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A large staff is required to successfully host an event as big as the Wisconsin State Fair. Samantha Dennis is the Chief Organizational Development Officer for the State Fair. She tells us about the scope of their staff and what they look for when hiring seasonal workers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hosting weddings on the farm is a strategy to diversify income and protect growers from market volatility. But "wedding barns" have been limited by updated alcohol policies. Jean Bahn of Farmview Event Barn in Berlin updates Mid-West Farm Report on the lawsuit fighting the new rules. Jean says 2026 weddings are in jeopardy. A cool front is on its way, says ag meteorologist Stu Muck. Where does the mint in your toothpaste and chewing gum come from? Believe it or not -- Wisconsin! At Still Harvest Farm in Rock County, partners Trip Downing and DJ Waller are growing and processing peppermint just south of Janesville. The harvest is underway now, keeping them busy during the typically quieter summer months between corn and soybean seasons. A large staff is required to successfully host an event as big as the Wisconsin State Fair. Samantha Dennis tells us about the scope of their staff and what they look for when hiring seasonal workers to handle the livestock barns, for example. Market advisor John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says no change in the latest cattle on feed and cattle inventory reports. Crop ratings are very strong, with soybeans trending exceptionally higher. The weather is excellent for crops moving forward. U.S.-China trade negotiations are going on in Stockholm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For Sandy Kumbier, the farm is more than land -- it’s a legacy built on hard work, deep roots, and unforgettable moments. Her great-great-grandfather, August Ferdinand Kumbier, purchased the Winnebago County farm in 1875 for $5,000 after immigrating from Germany. Generations later, Sandy recalls riding with her dad to the mill, unloading oats and corn, then sharing a bottle of Coke from the vending machine. These were just small rituals that made lasting memories. The family’s journey has also seen heartbreak. In 1999, Sandy’s nephew Jared was diagnosed with a brain tumor at just one year old. His father, Bob, sold the cows to care for him. Jared passed away the following year, and in his honor, the family hosted “A Day on the Farm,” drawing thousands and raising over $250,000 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. Through joy and grief, the Kumbiers have kept the spirit of the farm, and of Jared, alive for generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Crossman family farm has been a cornerstone of legacy and love since 1925, when Walter R. Crossman first purchased the land. His son Bud joined him at 18, later expanding the operation with his wife, Sandy, to support their growing family. From remodeling the barn to boosting genetics with registered Brown Swiss, Bud was always innovating. Their dedication paid off when their daughter’s photo with a Brown Swiss landed on the cover of Hoard’s Dairyman, sparking pen pals and later visitors from around the world. In 1984, Bud earned national recognition in Nashville for his small herd, marking his first vacation in over three decades. Though Bud passed away two years ago, his family’s deep-rooted connection to the farm, and to each other, lives on in every acre.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The sixth generation will be taking over the farm after David Massie steps down. Melanie Markhardt's son hopes to continue raising crops and beef cattle as they are doing now. Challenges that David Massie can recall are drought years and getting enough feed for their livestock. He also recalls the biggest change that they experienced was all the technology in the dairy industry, including the surge bucket milkers. David started working off the farm and in construction once they switched from dairy to beef. One thing that was significant to the family that was passed down now was their 1256 International tractor. Melanie feels it's pretty unique that the family is preserving the homestead after six generations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Seltzner’s farm has seen four decades of transformation, rooted in family legacy and shaped by change. In 1980, his father started farming the land with little more than a barn, a house, and a few tractors. He sold it to Joe and his wife two decades later. Since then, the house has been expanded four times, a new one built nearby, and nearly every original building is gone. What was once a humble start with chickens and corn cribs is now a 350-acre operation bordering the ever-encroaching city of Sun Prairie. Joe knows development pressure is closing in, but he’s holding fast. If the farm is ever sold, he dreams of starting fresh, somewhere quieter. Still, his favorite memory remains simple: his grandfather, handing out apples from his pocket after a long day baling straw.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Howard Gust's family story began in Germany. His great-grandfather's uncle moved to Dane County in the 1900s, purchasing the family farm in 1916. After this uncle passed away, Howard's great-grandfather, Rudolph, purchased the farm. Rudolph had also come from Germany to the United States at just 6 years old. Howard's grandparents, Ralph and Ethel Gust, moved to the farm in 1929. Electricity came to the farm in 1937 after the new dairy barn went up in 1935.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.