MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

"Turn it Up" is the theme for the 2025 Wisconsin State FFA Convention. Thousands of members will gather at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison. Jill Welke talks to WI State FFA President, Jescey Thompson, about planned convention highlights and the overall mood of the convention. Thompson says he was always raised to believe that "success breeds success", and thinks that's part of the energy members feel when they get together.Some severe weather could be making its way to Wisconsin today. Stu Muck focuses on some of the cells developing that could produce not only rain, but a thunderstorm. Tractor enthusiasts, especially those fond of John Deere, are getting ready to swarm the Washington County Fair Park and Conference Center mid-June. Pam Jahnke finds out about the history of the Classic Green Reunion from Sheila Everhart, executive director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. She's helping highlight the educational programs that are scheduled, as well as the unique combination of the county's dairy breakfast being held at the same facilities.Uncertainty that's been created over tariff's is again influencing the markets. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing, joins Pam Jahnke to explain which commodities are feeling the pinch. He also highlights an inaccurate social media post that tanked cattle prices on Monday. The false report claimed screwworm had been located in the U.S. After the U.S. Department of Agriculture called out the inaccuracies, the market started to reset but is still at a discount this morning.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Technology is often something talked about in production agriculture, but you might be surprised at what levels. Karen St. Germain is the Director of Earth Science at NASA. She shares with Ben Jarboe the work they do to support US farmers and says they are looking for more farmers to work with to further their research.Smoke alert for Wisconsin! Stu Muck says there's an air quality advisory in effect for the entire state until 6 a.m. Saturday because of wildfires in Canada.If you're familiar with an electric fence for your backyard as pet control, then you might be able to get your arms around farms using the same concept. Virtual fencing has been discussed for a while, but now a researcher at Oklahoma State University is working on refining the technology so farms can use it in wide open spaces. Dr. Ryan Reuter, a professor of animal and food sciences at Oklahoma State University, says animals would be fit with a collar that allows them to sense when they're close to the fence. He acknowledges that some animals will learn faster than others, just like some farmers will grasp how to manage the technology faster than others.Ivy league schools have found themselves in headlines when the federal government removes funding or stops supporting research efforts. The financing uncertainty isn't limited to just colleges of a certain tier. Stephanie Hoff talks with UW-Madison College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean, Glenda Gilaspy, on where she worries about funding being cut. Gilaspy also says they're expecting a very large freshman class on campus this fall, and how they're planning to handle the load.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now Wisconsin dairy operators are enjoying a pretty healthy milk check. Will that be the case later this year? Bob Bosold discusses the dairy price outlook with Leonard Polzin, Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist at UW-River Falls. Hot weather on the way today with some measurable rain. That's the outlook from Stu Muck. A new food company is on its way to Jefferson County. Ben Jarboe finds out about the Finland based, OnegoBio Wisconsin native Chris Landowski is a co-founder and Chief Technical Officer for OnegoBio. He explains how they are able to work around the bird flu by brewing egg whites. Landowski also says that this Finland based company is building a new factory in Jefferson Wisconsin. In order to pick this they did a nationwide survey and Wisconsin's access to corn starch and great reputation as a food processing state made it an easy choice. Landowski also says that this new factory will be part of the Food and Beverage Innovation campus that is under way in Jefferson.This new factory looks to create 2,160 jobs during construction and 136 indirect jobs annually. They will also employ 81 direct full time employees to man the factory.You may not think about it daily, but there's a lot of research ongoing about pet food and livestock feed. Lara Moody is the executive director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research, a charity that works on behalf of the feed industry. One of their responsibilities is determining what’s trending in the pet food space. Moody tells Stephanie Hoff and the Mid-West Farm Report what's becoming available in the byproduct supply chain that meets the nutrition requirements for fur babies and the desires of pet parents. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scott Alsum at Alsum Sweet Corn in Rudolph catches up with Stephanie Hoff at the Dane County Farmers Market. He says it's too early for fresh sweet corn -- his crop will be ready in July. But for the past several years, he's been providing frozen sweet corn for the first few months of the farmers market season. It's one example of how consumers can access local produce even when the growing season has just begun. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ants in the muffins meant they had to ask the sheriff to deliver all the donuts he could find! Bob and Nancy Faith recall memories from their experience hosting the first-ever Green County Breakfast on the Farm 45 years ago. They started a few traditions as trailblazers, which are unique to the Green County breakfast: coffee cake instead of pancakes, and strawberries served on the ice cream.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Brown serves as the vice president for dairy market intelligence at T. C. Jacoby & Company, Inc. He's an expert on milk pricing policy who has worked for both farmer-owned cooperatives and proprietary businesses for nearly four decades. Throughout his career, he has been a big proponent of university research. Mike says university research has provided him with the facts and tools to be creative and try new things.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UW-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences Dean Glenda Gillaspy talks to Mid-West Farm Report about the work stoppages and funding freezes going on in research within CALS. She says she's looking for guidance on why certain research gets flagged by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In other news, the college is expecting its largest class in the fall after introducing new majors to better meet the needs of students pursuing a career in agriculture, including veterinary medicine and food animal management.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Something as simple as the name of a food can be a trade barrier for U.S. dairy. Shawna Morris is the executive vice president for trade policy and global affairs for the National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council. She says there are quite a few unfair trade policies that the European Union forces on the United States. Geographical Indications are an example -- GIs are a protective label for products with a specific geographical origin. Morris explains why GIs are problematic for dairy products that, according to other places in the world, have a common name.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The soybean industry has been working diligently to make sure all the soybeans grown in the U.S. have a place to go and the united soybean board has been a large part of this. Mary Stewart works with the Health and Nutrition demand side of the United Soybean Board to gives a look into the health benefits soybeans have as well as the work USB is doing to find new markets for these soybeans. She says that they feel continuing to find new domestic markets for soybeans is the key to a healthy industry.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The soybean industry has been working diligently to make sure all the soybeans grown in the U.S. have a place to go and the united soybean board has been a large part of this. Pat Giberson a Director with the United Soybean Board shares some unique things that soybeans are a part of as well as their work to make the Mississippi River deeper to allow for larger loads. He says soybeans are in nearly everything around us without many people knowing.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Deere enthusiasts and tractor lovers from around the globe are going to be headed to Washington County in June. Co-chair Dan Guden of Athens, WI invites you to the Classic Green Reunion June 12-14 at the Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center in West Bend. This family-friendly event will feature over 1,000 tractors, implements, engines, toys, and memorabilia exhibits. Admission will include access to the exhibits, working demonstrations, seminars, kids’ activities, and a daily tractor parade. Wisconsin's heritage will be on display with dairy farm tours, a June Dairy Breakfast, and a Friday night fish fry. Stephanie Hoff gives us the inside look.A little fog this morning but otherwise a pleasant Thursday according to Stu Muck. More sun and warmer temperatures are coming this weekend.School is about to conclude for the summer break statewide, but some of the programs that happen in those classrooms are a valuable part of the communities they live in. Charitee Seebecker talks with Christine Fossen-Rades, teacher at Menominee Indian School District. What started with students making tea has quietly grown into a much larger movement, one driven by a simple question and a strong desire to be more self-reliant. These students are taking the lead, planting the seeds—literally and figuratively—for a project that ties together culture, community, and sustainability. Rades shares more about how the project came together and what it means for the school and community.The bugs have returned to Wisconsin farm fields. A new website developed by UW-Extension researchers shows that armyworm and cutworm are infesting fields at a pretty high rate. Jordan Kampa, interim manager of the state's pesticide applicators program, says if you're treating those insects - be careful.U.S. dairy has gone from the doldrums to comfortable margins in a short period of time. Ryan Yonkman, vice president and co-founder of EverAg joins Pam Jahnke to discuss. Yonkman says while tariffs are still a discussion in the marketplace, dairy keeps making sales. Butter has had a particularly robust international play, which is unusual. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So far 19 agriculture education programs in Wisconsin are planning for teacher changes next school year. That's the word from Sally Ladsten, Education Counselor with the Department of Public Instruction. She oversees agriculture, food and natural resource programs and acts as the Wisconsin State FFA Advisor. She calls this time of year "crazy" in a conversation with Pam Jahnke. Last year, Wisconsin experienced 60 teacher turnovers. Some stay in the state, the profession, and others leave. Ladsten says they're always scrambling to try and find available teachers to fill the slots of growing programs. Rainfall reporters will be busy again today according to Stu Muck. Light rain is likely to sweep across the state.Land sales remain firm according to Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group. In this installment of his conversation with Pam Jahnke, he focuses on the differences bidders experience when they show interest in land. Paid for by Steffes Group.The state's farmers are starting to see planting in the rear view mirror. Over 80% of the corn and soybeans have been planted. Pam Jahnke recaps the planting progress report. Kurt Lahr with CHS says the state is in a pretty good spot overall. While things are going calmly forward now, there's concerns on the horizon about climate change. A new survey released by UW-Madison points out that farmers recognize climate change, and are adjusting some of their practices because of it.Changes are being discussed on funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Stephanie Hoff talks to a Rudolph area farmer who has felt the positive impact of SNAP dollars on the clients he serves at the Dane County Farmers Market and elsewhere. Carl Flaig of Flaig Family Farm in Rudolph features an aquaponics system and cattle ranch that brings fresh produce, fish filets, and beef year-round to Wisconsin consumers, restaurants, and retailers. He says it's a major asset that SNAP recipients can purchase food from farmers' market vendors. Carl was recently in Washington D.C. with Wisconsin Farmers Union asking lawmakers to support a strong Supplemental Nutrition Assistance ProgramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. dairy industry took a milestone step to further collaborations with Indonesia. Shawna Morris is the executive vice president for trade policy and global affairs for the National Milk Producers Federation and the U.S. Dairy Export Council. These are two of several organizations that signed a memorandum of understanding with Indonesia that could result in more dairy exports for U.S. producers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

B. Kurt Dairy, a first-generation dairy farm passionate about educating people about food and farming, is hosting the Iowa County Dairy Breakfast. Enjoy a locally-sourced breakfast from 6:30-10:30 a.m. that includes pancakes, eggs, sausage, milk, cheese, yogurt, and ice cream. After breakfast, check out the kids' area, petting zoo, live music, a farm tour, and more. No parking on the farm - park at Vortex and take a short bus ride to the farm. Learn more: https://www.wisconsindairy.org/National-Dairy-Month/Dairy-Breakfasts/Detail?eventId=443See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The school year is coming to a close and many students are graduating. A big question for them is where are the jobs? Tammy Jensen the President of agriCAREERS gives some insight and tips for these recent graduates. She says currently the service sector in agriculture is in high demand for workers. Jensen believes the reason for the shortage is that people feel the jobs are not glamorous and would rather be in a sales role. She suggests starting with one of these lower jobs and working up to higher positions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Heinberg, a market advisor with Total Farm Marketing takes a closer look at the tariff discussion that transpired over the weekend. Wall Street is rallying while commodities are focused on weather. He says the weather should be good to start the growing season. Cattle on Feed report came out Friday verifying what most already know. Cattle are scarce.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fifth annual Wisconsin Arts & Peony Festival will be here June 13-15 in Beaver Dam, and this year, it’s attracting an international audience. Today, we’re catching up with Michelle Ovans of Ovans Peony Farm in Beaver Dam - the state’s largest fresh-cut peony farm. Michelle cares for more than 1,600 peony plants representing about 100 varieties. Her farm is on display during the upcoming festival. And while her flowers are exquisite, there’s even more to look forward to this year. Michelle tells us what we can look forward to at the Wisconsin Arts & Peony Festival. If you’re looking to generate an additional revenue stream for your farm by offering agricultural tourism experiences, like Michelle, join the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association. WATA is there to help you navigate not just all that goes into ag tourism, like marketing, licensing, and developing educational experiences. But they’re also an advocate for you in policy development. This podcast series is brought to you by Specialty Crop Block Grant 23-10. Learn more at gowiagtourism.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin planting season is working towards the end, and it is about time to focus on the growing season. Kurt Lahr a regional products specialist with CHS shares how the state is looking early on. He also shares some considerations to think about as we move through the summer. He says some farmers have not been able to put on their pre-emergent herbicides so they will need to reconfigure their spraying for the season. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farming is a risky job, but you can reduce risk with careful handling of chemicals. Danger is going to depend on how harmful the pesticide, etc. is and how long you’re exposed to it. The effects of farm chemicals can happen within minutes or over years. Limit the risk with common-sense solutions. Jordan Kampa, interim program manager with the pesticide applicator training program with the UW-Madison Division of Extension, brushes us up on safe chemical handling.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New World Screwworm is making headlines and also making U.S. beef producers very nervous. With budget cuts everywhere in the federal budget, they're worried about what inspection hole might be vulnerable to the pest getting into the U.S. Jill Welke uncovers what we don't know about the pest and how to eradicate it with Sigrid Johannes from the National Cattlemen's Beef Association.Hit and miss showers are going to be a part of the rest of the week in Wisconsin. Stu Muck explains that, and the temperature fluctuations we could experience.Weather's been just right for Wisconsin's asparagus crop! That happy news comes from Green Barn Farm Market in Ripon. Charitee Seebecker talks with operator Heather Brandt about the crop and the 10 acres they manage and harvest.Wisconsin farmers are alarmed at what they've read in the "Make America Healthy Again" Commission report. During a Senate hearing last week, Secretary Robert F. Kennedy from Health and Human Services said allegations that the report would cost farmers their way of life were "totally inaccurate".John Heinberg takes a closer look at the tariff discussion that transpired over the weekend. Wall Street is rallying while commodities are focused on weather. Cattle on Feed report came out Friday verifying what most already know. Cattle are scarce.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beginning June 1, dairy producers and processors will see noticeable changes to the way milk is priced. After years of discussion and debate, finally the Federal Milk Marketing Orders have seen some revision. In Wisconsin, that could mean some lower prices initially. Leonard Polzin, UW-Extension Dairy Markets and Policy Outreach Specialist, has done all the modeling for the new orders. He says everything continues to focus on the value of fluid milk, but it also should protect Wisconsin dairy operators for big losses when other categories are in demand. Bob Bosold gets the breakdown.Memorial weekend may not be real warm in Wisconsin, but it should be dry. Stu Muck goes through the weekend forecast which still has a frost advisory out for much of northern Wisconsin.Thursday the Make America Healthy Again commission finally released their much anticipated report. Agriculture was quick to respond with overall disappointment. Chad Smith speaks with Sam Kieffer, vice president of public policy for the American Farm Bureau for reaction. Kieffer says any efforts to adjust the food system have to be based on science. Some people are looking forward to camping this Memorial weekend. Sheila Everhart, executive director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association(WATA) tells Pam Jahnke that one of the most popular breaks for people is to "glamp". Basically that's a camping experience in a unique location - like a farm. In Wisconsin, however, that can come with permit expense and inspection. Everhart says WATA is working on changing language in state statutes that would allow farms to offer campsites for up to 3 locations without that requirement. Everhart says it's just a language change with no expense to tax payers, but the senator that's working on the bill says he wants at least 10 farmers to commit to testify for the change before he'll introduce it. Spring planting continues as weather allows. Matt Wagenson, grower and board member of the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, gives Pam Jahnke a quick planting update from his tractor cab. Wagenson says they just concluded a consumer survey designed to find out both opinion and knowledge of what soybean growers do and provide to them product-wise. Wagenson tells Jahnke that older consumers generally still have confidence in farmers and the practices they use. Younger demographics however are less engaged, and have less knowledge about the unique products they use everyday that contain soy-based products. Paid for by the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Green Barn Farm Market is celebrating one of its best asparagus seasons yet, with high-quality harvests and strong demand across Wisconsin. Founded in 1992 by Heather Brandt and her husband, the farm began on just 10 acres. Today, it has grown to over 100 acres, supporting both retail and wholesale operations. Brandt explained, “We started picking asparagus about 25 years ago, and it’s become one of our specialties.” Currently, the farm harvests asparagus from two main beds totaling 10 acres. The older bed contains Jersey Knight and Jersey Giant varieties. The newer, planted six years ago, features Mary Washington—a more prolific variety with slightly smaller spears. “This year, the quality is outstanding,” Brandt said. “The spears are nice and fat with tight tops—just how we want them.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What started as an employee appreciation cookout at Metcalfe’s Market has now become the largest brat and music festival in the world, featuring thousands and thousands of Johnsonville brats. Event organizer Tim Metcalfe says the menu also includes sweet corn, ice cream, and carnival food, among other things. Roughly 1,900 volunteers will raise $100,000 for various charities by working at Brat Fest. Three music stages will provide entertainment. Families can get up close and personal with animals and farm equipment. Event-goers can also do some shopping at a new marketplace. Brat Fest is going on Friday through Sunday at Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison. Find more details, including when to view the fireworks, at https://bratfest.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

According to Ag meteorologist Stu Muck this Memorial Day weekend should bring some slightly warmer temps and sunlight to make it great grilling weather. With Memorial Day coming up, grilling is on the top of minds for many. Ben Jarboe talks with Bennett Fraboni of Fraboni’s Italian Specialties to see how their family meat shop prepares for the grilling season, and how natural casings for their sausages have been a bit hard to come by. It is expected that Robert F Kennedy Jr. will be announcing the plans for Make America Healthy Again. Stephanie Hoff gives us a precursor on how important the produce industry should be to this program. Stephanie Hoff has a chat with Logan Wells from the North Central Technical College’s Antigo campus to tell us about their new one-of-a-kind sawmill to help students gain some valuable knowledge in the lumber industry. The most recent milk production report came out yesterday and Matt Tranel with EverAg joins the show to give us the breakdown. He says that no matter what, the U.S. will need to keep exporting large amounts of cheese.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Apple blossoms are booming at Atoms to Apples! We caught up with Rami Aburomia, owner of this certified organic orchard just south of Mount Horeb, where he says it’s shaping up to be one of the best bloom in years. His five-acre orchard is home to 65 apple varieties—plus pears, plums, and even the occasional peach when the weather cooperates. He says with bees buzzing and trees thriving, the season is off to a strong start.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state Joint Finance Committee has wrapped up its road show around Wisconsin. These hearings were some of the first steps in forming a state budget for the biennium. Joining us in-studio to talk about what may or may not make it into the budget for farmers is Jason Mugniani. Jason is the executive director of government relations with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation. He outlines three themes the Wisconsin Ag Coalition is pushing for: conservation support, rural livability, and market access.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We can expect a Make America Healthy Again report to come out this week focused on tackling chronic disease, and it’s got the ears of the agriculture industry. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers. The International Fresh Produce Association was among several farm groups to remind the Trump administration to consider the consequences of this MAHA Commission report before it’s finalized. IFPA says the report might suggest that U.S. farmers are harming Americans through their production practices. The association says nothing could be further from the truth. The details of the report have yet to be seen. We do get a chance to visit with the International Fresh Produce Association’s vice president of nutrition and health Mollie Van Lieu. She says fresh produce should be a winner in the eyes of the MAHA movement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farm advocacy groups continue to beat the drum on farm labor in Washington, D.C. Rebeckah Adcock is the vice president of U.S. government relations at the International Fresh Produce Association. IFPA represents the entire supply chain of fresh produce. Modernizing farm labor is a top priority for her on Capitol Hill. And make no mistake – she says America’s Dairyland is an important partner. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We can expect a Make America Healthy Again report to come out later this week focused on tackling chronic disease, and it’s got the ears of the agriculture industry. This morning, we’re catching up with Sigrid Johannes. She’s the senior director of government affairs with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Sigrid says she’s got her eyes on a few moving parts. For example – new products in the marketplace like lab-grown meat and new developments in nutrition guidelines. We start with NCBA’s stance on the "Make America Healthy Again" movement as we await the details on the upcoming MAHA Commission report. More rain on the way today before turning warmer and dry for the weekend. That's the outlook from Stu Muck.Farm equipment and real estate continue to hold firm pricewise. That's according to Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group. He counts down some of the top sales from April to Pam Jahnke. Paid for by Steffes Group.Knowing where your money is being spent is important to everyone and that includes today's beef producers. Pam Jahnke travels to Marda Angus in Lodi to visit with Terry Quam, secretary/treasurer of the Cattlemen's Beef Board. The Cattlemen's Beef Board oversees the spending of farmer checkoff dollars. Quam says while the beef industry's enjoying success today, he remembers when it wasn't that bright. Quam explains how beef checkoff dollars are invested in many different avenues to keep producers, processors, consumers and world partners happy with the product. Paid for by Equity Cooperative Livestock on behalf of the WI Beef Council.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the previous administration, NRCS offices were already short of staff. Now, we're hearing that further staff cuts are underway as the administration works to "rightsize" the government. Does NRCS have the staff to provide the service needed to administer programs? Chief Aubrey Bettencourt argues that investments in broadband and technology will help streamline NRCS, retain employees, and make the processes easier for farmers and agents. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lara Moody is the executive director of the Institute for Feed Education and Research, a charity that works on behalf of the feed industry. One of their responsibilities is determining what’s trending in the livestock feed space. Moody tells Mid-West Farm Report what's becoming available in the agricultural byproduct supply chain that meets the nutrition requirements for farm animals and fur babies. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After nearly 100 days of traveling the country and visiting with farmers nationwide, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins released the first set of policy proposals under her newly launched Make Agriculture Great Again Initiative. Before the announcement, she sat down with farm broadcasters in Washington D.C., including Mid-West Farm Report, and responded to questions around tariffs and staff cuts. Secretary Rollins says she's confident that American farmers will reap the benefits of the administration's plan "quickly."See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend the final race of the triple crown unfolds in New York and the Belmont Stakes. Once those trained athletes have raced, and bred, what's next? For some - retirement. Bob Bosold visits with Tom Beatty, a volunteer at a farm called "Old Friends". It's the retirement home for over 300 horses in Georgetown, KY, that may have raced in one place or another, or are just a valuable part of someone's family. Beatty explains how the farm got its start, and who some of their famous stablemates are. Measurable rain is on the way for most of Wisconsin today and tomorrow, slowing down planting progress. Stu Muck explains where it's coming from and where it will be heaviest. Wisconsin is finally in the final leg of preparation to join the national testing campaign tracing H5N1 in dairy. Although the states been testing for the virus since last fall, becoming a part of the national USDA effort has brought challenges. Stephanie Hoff visits with WI Ag Secretary, Randy Romanski and WDATCP Administrator of the Division of Food and Recreational Health, Adam Brock. Wisconsin farmers kept rolling on spring planting chores. Pam Jahnke reports that 73% of the states corn and 66% of the soybeans were in the ground as of Sunday. Plus, about 5% of the first cutting of alfalfa hay has already been harvested. Markets are talking rain delays in the eastern corn belt. John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend says the planting progress numbers intrigued traders. Meanwhile, watch cattle. A bubble burst in the market on prices last week, but consumers keep visiting the beef showcase at the retail level.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The annual Morel Mushroom Festival in Muscoda happens this weekend. Ben Jarboe talks to community coordinator, Kim Seifert, about why the community rallies around this small fungus. Severe weather took a toll in places like New Richmond and Dodge County last night. Stu Muck recaps the situation, and tells us what to expect through the weekend. Our final candidate for the Alice in Dairyland position is Michelle Stangler from the Watertown area. Stephanie Hoff learns why this passionate agriculture communicator wants to take on the state responsibility. Wisconsin's already experienced a spike in temperatures that's a little unusual for May. Managing cows and keeping them comfortable is a full time job, and it can get expensive with escalating energy costs. Pam Jahnke talks to Kevin Weiler from Focus on Energy about incentive plans they've put in place and rebates that can help tame that energy bill. Paid for by Focus on Energy/CESA.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection announced the implementation of the mandatory National Milk Testing Strategy, required by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. This comprehensive program aims to bolster highly pathogenic avian influenza surveillance of the nation’s dairy cattle herds, ensuring swift action to identify and address H5N1-affected herds. Under the NMTS, Wisconsin will soon initiate mandatory monthly milk sampling. With help from industry partners, it is expected that one milk sample will be obtained per dairy farm each month and tested at the Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory. These samples will primarily be gathered through existing milk quality labs that work with Licensed Bulk Milk Weighers and Samplers, ensuring minimal disruption to dairy operations while obtaining farm-level results.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin soybean growers are asking questions of the consumers that are using their goods. Matt Wagenson, Wisconsin soybean grower who sits on the Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board, says a new survey they've conducted to gain insights into what opinions consumers have. Wagenson says that the opinion of the consumers varies dependent on age. He notes that older survey respondents generally trust the actions of today's growers and do have some knowledge on the products developed because of soy investments. Younger respondents were not as familiar with things they're using every day that might have soybean components. Wagenson says today soy foam for fire fighting, and soy product used to make tires were elements that younger survey participants didn't know much about. Wagenson says the bottom line is they'll use this survey as a guide for outreach messages in the future, to help all consumers understand the importance and relevance of soy in their lives everyday!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you have ever been a dog owner you probably noticed that your furry companion uses their nose to get them in trouble by sniffing out animals in the yard, food in the garbage, and many other things you have never noticed. The USDA is using their powerful noses to make sure agriculture in the US stays safe. Carrie Thomas a deputy Director with USDA APHIS shares some examples of how our furry friends' powerful noses are able to detect some unique scents from around the world but first she shares insight into how these dogs are trained for this unique job. Thomas says that the dogs are trained based on the location they will be working. For example, in Oregon the dogs are trained to detect Japanese Beetles due to their close proximity. Sponsored by the Wisconsin Soybean Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we’re getting an update on what producers need to know about the waterways – either permanent or temporary – that run through their land. Mary-Thomas Hart is the chief counsel with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 78th Alice in Dairyland finals made history over the weekend. It was the first time that Crawford county hosted the event, and it was the first time that sisters became a part of Wisconsin's agriculture ambassador tradition. 24 year old Sarah Hagenow of Poynette was selected from the field of 6 candidates. Kaitlyn Kessler visits with the newly crowned woman about her goals and ambitions in the position. Chilly weather is part of our forecast this week. Stu Muck gives us the details.Wisconsin dairy takes advantage of every area in a store, on a label or at an event to reach out to consumers. Charitee Seebecker visits with Gail Klinkner, dairy farmer from the Viroqua area about some of the items that might be overlooked as avenues to influence. Paid for by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. Marathon county has stepped up to host the 2026 Alice in Dairyland finals, May 14-16 in Wausau. What's agriculture like on Washington Island? The weather can have a big impact on how early farmers start, and how late they persist at the location just off the Door County coast. Pam Jahnke visits with Alessandra Rollfs, executive director of Gathering Grounds, a non-profit focused on amplifying Door County agriculture. They've got a June bike tour that gives people a chance to experience those farms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The EPA’s herbicide and new insecticide strategies dictate if, how, and when a farmer can use these chemicals on their farm. Any time a crop protection product gets reviewed or renewed, the EPA can determine if "mitigation measures" need to happen on the farm in order for the grower to use it. Today, we hear from Maryland crop farmer Lyndsey Thompson about how the new strategies have impacted her family's business to date. But first, CropLife America President and CEO Alex Dunn says farmers should know that resources are available to help them navigate any changes to pesticides. First, Dunn gives us some background on why these strategies came about. This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Budget reconciliation isn't new, but it hasn't ever been used to reshape core farm bill programs. The House Agriculture Committee passed its budget reconciliation this week and wants to have it up for a House vote before Memorial Day, says Tyler Wenzlaff, Director of National Affairs with the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation. He says there were key provisions for farmers that they're excited about, including a raise in reference prices for crop safety nets, and an update to the Dairy Margin Coverage program.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Trempealeau County’s Addison Connolly has been working hard behind the scenes to turn a childhood interest into an international opportunity. Her dedication, drive, and deep bond with her dog have led her to one of the biggest moments of her young career—earning a spot on Team USA for the Junior Open Agility World Championship in Portugal. Her agility partner is Cooper, a black and white border collie. Cooper is 24 inches tall and full of energy and heart. “He’s a once-in-a-lifetime kind of dog,” she said. “He’s super easygoing but driven to do anything I ask.”See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weather is often one of the biggest uncertainties for farmers across the U.S. throughout the growing season. With many recent years of drought and in Wisconsin’s case some spring flooding the USDA works to make sure that producers know what to expect year in and year out. Brad Rippey an Agricultural Meteorologist for the USDA Chief Economist's office is one of the original authors of the U.S. drought monitor. He says this year has already seen an unusual amount of weather disasters in the U.S. and that there is still a lot of uncertainty. Rippey is confident that there will be lots of drought this year with the only question being where exactly it will impact. Sponsored by the Wisconsin Soybean Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers. How are current trade tensions influencing livestock and pet feed? We talk about it with Mallory Gaines. She’s the director of global affairs with the American Feed Industry Association, watching feed ingredients and pet food movement between us and our largest trading partners. She kicks us off with where it all comes from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This Washington Watch news update is brought to you by the Wisconsin Soybean Association, dedicated to ensuring policies are in place for the future of soybean farmers. Today we’re talking about lab-grown meat with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Sigrid Johannes is the senior director of government affairs with NCBA. She tells Mid-West Farm Report how the association has been navigating not just food technology but nutrition guidelines and consumer preferences. We start with Sigrid’s thoughts on the "Make America Healthy Again" movement spearheaded by Health & Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We always knew that dairy was good for your bones. The UW Dairy Innovation Hub is taking it a step further to look at how some underused byproducts of dairy food production can be a game changer for bone health as you age. Mitchell Armstrong is a PhD student at UW-Madison, figuring out how to bring more value to the dairy industry and human nutrition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since its inception in 1982, the Muscoda Morel Mushroom Festival has been a staple for the community. Kimberly Seifert a committee member for the festival says that they have an action packed 3-day event planned. She says that this year will have tractor pulls, free ice cream, and of course lots of mushrooms. Located an hour west of Madison the festival aims to be a great time for people of all ages.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Halei Heinzel is getting ready to learn who the next Alice in Dairyland will be. The final phases of interviews begin today in Crawford County. Jill Welke talks with Heinzel about her year-long experience and what memories she'll be taking away when she departs officially in July. Severe weather is on the way for a good chunk of Wisconsin today. Stu Muck draws the lines where heavy weather's expected.Stephanie Hoff introduces us to another one of the six finalists for the Alice position. Natalie Roe from Monticello first found out about the Alice program when the selection process came to Green County. She says her love of agriculture's been apparent since she was a little girl. Ben Jarboe gets in a quick conversation with the incoming executive director of the Wisconsin Farmers Union in Chippewa Falls. Danielle Endvick grew up in agriculture and previously served as communications coordinator for WFU. She shares some of the priorities she's bringing to the post. Keep an eye on the cheese market. Beginning next week, barrel cheese essentially "goes away" in Chicago and the Class III pricing formula. That's according to Matt Tranel, dairy analyst with EverAg. He joins Pam Jahnke for the discussion.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin’s Environmental Mesonet, Wisconet for short, is a statewide network of weather and soil monitoring stations launched in 2023 by the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Researchers use the network to fill weather data gaps and develop new web-based tools for the public. Chris Vagasky, Wisconet manager in the UW–Madison Department of Plant and Agroecosystems Sciences, shows Pam Jahnke around one of the weather station sites in Arlington. Data on the new Wisconet website is also coming directly from weather station readings rather than the modeled or predicted values seen in standard phone apps. The site provides dozens of maps, and its dashboards help visitors make decisions about outdoor or agricultural activities. Storms could be brewing this afternoon in Wisconsin, and more heat's on the way! Stu Muck breaks down when the rain arrives. Ashley Huhn with the Steffes Group catches up with Pam Jahnke to discuss planning in advance for a potential auction. Paid for by the Steffes Group. Stephanie Hoff introduces us to "Alice" candidate Sarah Hagenow as well as Lyndon Station native, Olivia Lulich.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new training program is in the works that could change how conservation staff and farmers work together. DATCP’s Nutrient Management Outreach Specialist, Andrea Topper, has been helping to create a program that bridges the gap between conservation and agriculture. While it’s still being finalized, this program will combine online learning with hands-on field experiences to give conservation staff the agricultural knowledge they need. She shares a closer look at how this initiative got started.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With lots of recent changes in the agriculture world the American Farm Bureau is working hard to make sure they get what is best for the farmers. One of the issues that is top of mind for them is getting the funding for the sustainable farming programs. Courtney Briggs the Senior Director of Government Affairs with AFBF says that many farmers depend on this money as they deal with high inputs and low prices. She also says that they are working diligently to let farmers know the options they have to collect on their sustainable practices.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.