MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

Heather Quakenboss, Extension Human Development & Relationships Educator, Canning is a great way to preserve food and provide a taste of summer all year long. However, there are some safety precautions to take into consideration. Quakenboss walks us through the importance of using the proper equipment and safe recipes.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin’s wine grape harvest is underway, and at Bailey’s Run Vineyard in New Glarus, manager Aimee Arrigoni is watching the weather closely. She oversees six acres and 3,000 vines. The early Edelweiss has already been picked, but later-ripening reds are still waiting on September warmth. Recent swings between hot and unusually cool temperatures have stalled sugar levels, raising the risk of fruit damage from birds, bees, and disease. Despite the challenges, Arrigoni says yields are strong and quality is high, with promising reds like Marquette and Petite Pearl set for harvest later this month into early October.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nestled in the countryside between Oshkosh, Ripon, and Berlin, Petals & Plows is more than just a farm; it’s an experience. Operated by Wade and Haley Kaufman's family, this multi-generational farm comes alive each season with opportunities for visitors to connect with Wisconsin agriculture. The greenhouse bursts with vibrant life in spring, and by autumn, the farm transforms into a destination filled with pumpkins, squash, gourds, and sweet corn. A highlight of the season is their one-of-a-kind FFA-logo corn maze—the only one in Wisconsin—making it the perfect stop for this year’s Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association’s Maze Challenge. Pumpkins take center stage in the fall, with the Kaufmans recommending visits between Sep. 20 and Oct. 17 for peak picking.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal Milk Marketing Orders set the rules for how milk is priced across the country, shaping returns for farmers, processors, and ultimately consumers. A historic update took effect June 1, and now that we’ve been under the revised system for a few months, what has it meant for Wisconsin’s dairy farmers? Mike Brown, vice president for dairy market intelligence at T.C. Jacoby & Company, says early projections showed Class III milk prices could drop by as much as 90 cents per hundredweight, or about 7.5 cents per gallon. Some producers may have seen that, he notes, but many other factors, like processor-producer negotiations, continue to influence milk checks. Regardless, Brown emphasizes the update was necessary. Looking ahead, he questions whether the Class III order will remain relevant given the strength of the cheese market, pointing out that growing demand for cheese and finding more value in whey, a byproduct of cheese, will be key to boosting returns for Class III dairy farmers. He also expects that negotiated contracts heading into the new year will help bring added premiums at the farm gate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we move later in the growing season the weather has been a bit unusual compared to what we have seen in recent years with good amounts of rain. Although this helps soybeans grow, it also allows one of their diseases to grow. That being white mold. Research is ongoing to figure out the best way to deal with this fungus using biological control agents. Damon Smith, a professor in plant pathology, is here to share some information on their study that looks to find the best practices when using the agent commonly known as Contans.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For many farmers in the state of Wisconsin Custom operators are necessary for their operation whether it be for tilling, manure spreading, or harvest. With the last of that list coming up soon Jeremy Heim a board member for the Wisconsin Custom Operators is here to share what can be expected from custom operators this fall, as well as a look into the current custom operator's world in regard to rates and regulations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fall is approaching and it provides a great opportunity to do many things whether that's hiking, pumpkin picking, or composting. Statewide horticulture specialist Bruce Spangenberg is here to share more about the process of what happens during composting as well as the two main methods one can use to create this highly organic material.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Harvest is right around the corner and across the state farmers are prepping which for some includes some purchases of machinery. Current trends show a higher demand for used equipment. Matt and Jim Gavin, the owners of Gavin Bros Auctions out of Reedsburg are here to share a deeper look into what trends they are seeing at auctions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warmer temperatures are coming to Wisconsin, and they may bring rain with them. Ag meteorologist Stu Muck gives the details. Kiley Allan has a conversation with Heather Quackenboss on the safety measures that you should be sure to take while canning your produce. She says that this process what started by Napoleon. Pam Jahnke talks with Equity Livestock’s president and CEO Curt Larson on what the proposed fee increases from DATCP may look like. He says some increases may surpass 1,000%. Chad Garteski, a recreational landowner and broker, gives a look at how much you may need to spend to buy good Wisconsin hunting ground. Market Advisor John Heinberg with Total Farm Marketing joins the show to give some valuable insight on what the grain markets are doing. He says with the next USDA crop report coming out on Friday, that the recent dry weather may bring down those yield estimates. Heinberg also shares some insight on the options farmers have for their crop this fall.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

DATCP Secretary Randy Romanski talks to Farm Director Pam Jahnke about the proposed changes to ATCP 10 and ATCP 12 to increase fees for livestock auction markets, dealers, and truckers. The public comment period starts Sep. 11. The rulemaking process can take up to 2.5 years. Romanski says there hasn't been a fee increase since 2008-2009. The fees bring revenue to support essential services, such as animal health administration, which is currently operating at a deficit.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is proposing changes to ATCP 10 and ATCP 12. These are fee increases for livestock auction markets, dealers, and truckers. Equity Cooperative Livestock Sales CEO Curt Larson comments on the proposed changes with Farm Director Pam Jahnke. He says the only way to collect these fee increases will be to pass them on to the farmers, which he fears will force even more producers out of livestock. In addition, Larson says the proposed fee increases are excessive and well beyond “ordinary and customary,” ranging from 205 percent to 1,700 percent. "The department must realize they cannot make up for the loss of shared funding simply by increasing the user fees," he says.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Farmers are gearing up for the harvest, and that means it’s go-time for equipment prep. For some, that includes picking up used machinery at auction. Matt and Jim Gavin of Gavin Bros Auctions in Reedsburg tell Ben Jarboe that demand is strong and prices have held steady. More farmers are focusing less on brand loyalty and more on value. Today's Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update calls for a frost advisory before a warm-up, says Stu Muck. The apple harvest is rolling along at Sunrise Orchards in Gays Mills. Owner Brent Seiser tells Kiley Allan that while frost can be a challenge in both spring and fall, especially for late-harvested apples, this season is shaping up nicely. Have what it takes to be a Master Meat Crafter? Applications are open. Also, UW-River Falls students and staff spent some time in Thailand promoting Wisconsin dairy. You can also be a part of the love for Wisconsin dairy through the Art of Cheese Festival! This features a variety of cheese-themed events, including hands-on workshops, creamery tours, an artisan cheese fair, and cooking demonstrations, alongside culinary excursions and a large-scale cheese ball, Jessica Pralle-Trimner tells Pam Jahnke.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Excitement is building as we approach a busy harvest season. Angela Bunker, Senior Loss Control Specialist with American Family Insurance, says that preparedness is crucial for a safe and effective harvest. She helps us determine what precautions to take and how to explain the importance of farm safety to children.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sheep cheese is great in everything from mac and cheese to charcuterie! Karen Nielsen, the Organizational Manager of the Sheep Dairy Association of Wisconsin, shares the health and flavor benefits of sheep cheese.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Gumz of Gumz Farms has had the opportunity to host many different groups at their operation. Recently, Gumz Farms and DATCP welcomed the Minister of Agriculture from Tamil Nadu, a southern state in India. The group was very interested in technology and soil on the farm. He shares why Gumz Farms feels it is important to host groups.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Dairy Business Association promoted Chad Zuleger to executive director. Having nearly seven years of experience at DBA, Zuleger is dedicated to advocating for the state’s dairy community. As executive director, Zuleger will continue to lead DBA’s efforts in the state capitol. He will also direct DBA’s government affairs strategy, guiding public policy and messaging and fostering member involvement in grassroots campaigns. He will oversee the organization’s political action committee and play a key role in implementing DBA’s multi-year strategic plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Bosold discusses the unique challenges of farming in The Last Frontier with Scott Muckrage, an Alaskan beef producer.Stu Muck and Stephanie Hoff swap rainfall reports before the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update that calls for lower, but comfortable, weekend temperatures.Kiley Allan helps tell the story of Pleasant Sauces with Mike and Sharon Pleasant. This small food business is seeing success with help from Something Special from Wisconsin.Three out of five top listened to stories this week were Century and Sesquicentennial Farm stories. Find these conversations at midwestfarmreport.com courtesy of Compeer Financial.Ben Jarboe is on his way to the Wisconsin Sheep & Wool Festival at Jefferson County Fair Park. He gets the highlights of the show from Coordinator Hedge Becker, including the first-ever national sheep dairy show, the popular stock dog trials, and over 100 fiber arts vendors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Pleasant wasn’t very excited when the barbecue sauce he wanted wasn’t available in the marketplace. That's when he took matters into his own hands, and started making his own barbecue sauce. After numerous batches, the final recipe received a stamp of approval from a panel of taste testing friends. Mike and his wife Sharon began bottling the sauce and selling it to customers. Sharon tells the story of this small Wisconsin food business and their relationship with Something Special from Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brent Seiser is the Owner Manager at Sunrise Orchards in Gays Mills. He says this year's apple harvest is going well. Although frost can cause troubles, he thinks their harvest will not be greatly impacted. He also tells us about the cider press they have at their operation.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. He also tells us about the pest and weed control required to grow the best holiday staple. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An average to good yield is expected from this year's ginseng crop. Robert Kaldunski is the President of the Ginseng Board of Wisconsin. He says that the weather has not been ideal this season, and the crops have had to overcome challenges. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Westby Cooperative Creamery, Wisconsin’s only cottage cheese manufacturer, is investing $14.1 million to modernize its Westby facility. The expansion will add new vats, tanks, silos, and upgraded equipment to improve efficiency, safety, and product consistency while easing strain on employees. Emily Bialkowski says the project will meet surging consumer demand for cottage cheese, which has seen sales jump nationwide. With all current capacity sold out, the investment ensures long-term stability for the creamery to stay competitive in the growing high-protein, "clean-label" market. Pictured: New enclosed vat.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The growing season's been going fairly well for vegetable growers in the state, but that can change quickly. Some tomato and potato growers have seen early blight in their crops. The fungus can lay waste to entire fields. Kiley Allan speaks with Amanda Gevens, professor and Extension Specialist in Potato and Vegetable Pathology. Gevens says growers need to continue monitoring crops for late blight, and take precautions when disposing of infected plants. Northern Wisconsin could see a light frost overnight with temperatures dipping to the low 40's. Stu Muck's keeping an eye on the forecast. He says the extended forecast starts to return to warmer temperatures beginning next week. You may not realize it, but a lot of Wisconsin farms need to rely on contract labor to complete a lot of tasks around the farm before the snow arrives. Spreading manure according to regulations, as well as helping with various phases of the harvest and fall tillage are part of the array they turn to with custom operators. Ben Jarboe finds out how the pace of activity's starting to pick up from Jeremy Heim, a custom operator himself who sits on the WI Custom Operators board of directors. He says long days are part of the game, but rates and regulations are changing this fall.​ Tomorrow is the beginning of the WI Sheep & Wool Festival in Jefferson. Hedge Becker is one of the festival organizers that says they'll have 30 different breeds of sheep at the show to educate and inform attendees. Matt Tranel, dairy analyst with EverAg's Platteville office joins Pam Jahnke for an update on how seasonal buying is starting to influence dairy prices. Fast food is rearranging menu items to keep consumers coming in. Will that influence holiday demand?See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The recreational land market in Wisconsin and Minnesota is booming, with demand driven by buyers from nearby cities seeking weekend getaways or future residences, says Weiss Realty’s Chad Garteski. Prices have nearly tripled in five years, with Buffalo County hunting land reaching $8,000–$10,000 per acre. Many buyers, often professionals reinvesting business proceeds, view land as both a lifestyle purchase and investment, frequently using 1031 exchanges. Sellers typically list due to life changes, while tax and conservation programs influence demand. Well-priced properties now sell quickly, and Garteski advises buyers to get in early, even with smaller parcels.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Wisconsin Art of Cheese Festival returns September 25–28, 2025, offering a bigger and more flavorful celebration than ever before. This four-day event showcases Wisconsin’s world-renowned cheesemaking heritage through hands-on activities, exclusive excursions, and unforgettable tasting experiences. Designed for both devoted cheese enthusiasts and curious foodies, the festival highlights the artistry, passion, and innovation of Wisconsin’s award-winning cheesemakers—making it a true cheese lover’s dream. Beyond the experience, the festival plays a vital role in marketing Wisconsin Dairy. By drawing attention to the state’s unmatched tradition of quality and craftsmanship, it strengthens pride in local dairy, attracts visitors from across the country, and reinforces Wisconsin’s reputation as the leader in cheesemaking. Marathon county dairy farmer and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin board member, Jessica Pralle-Trimner, explains why tickets to this event will be a hot commodity!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fall is an ideal time to start thinking about composting projects. That's the word from statewide horticulture specialist, Bruce Spangenberg. He tells Ben Jarboe what the process is all about, and shares tips for first time composters to make it a success. Fall is ideal because of the volume of organic material available. Spangenberg also recommends not putting meat food scraps in the pile because it will not decompose quickly and may attract animals. After a little rain today, sunshine should return. That's the forecast from Stu Muck. Ashley Huhn with the Steffes Group joins Pam Jahnke to talk about preparing for your auction. Time is the key component that can really influence a sales success. Paid for by Steffes Group. Agriculture plays a part in everything we do, and can show up in surprising areas. When Graham Cassellius bought his 34-acre farm named Cassell Hollow Farm in Vernon County, he inherited about 3,500 hazelnut trees. It took a few years for him to decide what direction he could take the crop when - surprise - he discovered tattoo art. Today his hazelnut skin oil helps people maintain their ink, as well as their beards! Cassellius and Cassell Hollow Farm will actually be featured at the Madison Tattoo Festival in September! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Century Farm Awards Program began in 1948 in conjunction with the State of Wisconsin’s Centennial Celebration. There are currently over 10,000 Century Farms nestled throughout the Badger State. Most recently, Don Veidel’s family of Burnett County has been added to the list. Don brought his uncle, second-generation on the Centennial Farm, Carroll Veidel to the celebratory breakfast marking the milestone. The farm, located in Siren, remains a gathering place for the close-knit Veidel family, where traditions like apple pie making, deer hunting, and Thanksgiving keep both the land and family ties strong. Nephew Don predicts the future of the farm while Uncle Carroll connects us to the farm’s origin, which started with his father.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Century Farm Awards Program began in 1948 in conjunction with the State of Wisconsin’s Centennial Celebration. There are currently over 10,000 Century Farms nestled throughout the Badger State. Most recently, Jeff Ruedy's family farm has been added to the list. ReeDee Farms in Sparta reflects over 100 years of hard work. Like many long-standing family farms, it has weathered the challenges of changing markets and evolving practices. Today, the Ruedy family carries forward that legacy that started with Jeff’s great-grandfather. These stories are brought to you courtesy of Compeer Financial.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cheese and whey markets have been volatile due to their dependence on trade, and Mike Brown, vice president for dairy market intelligence at T.C. Jacoby & Company, says this is especially important for Wisconsin dairy farmers, since about 90 percent of the state’s milk goes into cheese. While the whey market behaves a little differently, he expects to see renewed investment in whey as Wisconsin continues producing award-winning cheeses. Brown notes that although the regulated minimum for Class III milk prices dropped with the Federal Milk Marketing Order update that took effect June 1, lower milk checks are also tied to other factors, including revenue declines for cheese processors.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ag Meteorologist Stu Muck joins the show and says that we can expect to still see cooler temperatures and some showers this week. Stephanie Hoff talks with Julie Schoeneberg, a farmer at the Creek Bed Farmacy in Poynette, about how their peaches are handling the northern weather. Kiley Allan has a chat with Edwin "Skip" Blake, the owner of Shamrock Cow Care, to give us some key considerations when thinking about hoof care for your cattle. John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins the show and says that dairy is seeing losses due to a high supply of milk being produced. He also says China has still not bought any U.S. soybeans and that the end of year weather could be worrisome for crop growers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tatian Silva is a research associate at UW-Madison. Her story starts more than 5,000 miles away in Brazil. Her family's farm fueled her love for agriculture. That love, ultimately, brought her to the UW-Madison. Her research focuses on the health of the soil and the prosperity of the crops that grow in it. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tatian Silva is a research associate at UW-Madison. Her research focuses on the health of the soil and the prosperity of the crops that grow in it. Her trail has come upon a few unforeseen challenges. However, those challenges will help shape future research. She talks the importance of knowing your soils' health and how to maintain it.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we’re taking you north of Oshkosh to the Village of Larson, where the Herrmann Family Farm has stood strong for 150 years. Thomas Herrmann and his daughter Jody carry on the legacy of their Sesquicentennial Farm, a place that has seen it all, from the days of thrashing crews and horses to the age of modern equipment and precision agriculture. As the farm prepares to transition to Jody, the youngest daughter, the Herrmanns reflect not only on the changes their family farm has weathered, but also on the evolution of Wisconsin’s farming industry as a whole.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re heading to Polk County, Wisconsin, to meet Jill Armstrong of Armstrong Farms in Cushing. This Sesquicentennial Farm has been in the family for more than 150 years, and Jill is making sure that legacy continues by leading the farm into a new chapter. Once a traditional dairy operation, Armstrong Farms has diversified into elderberries—an innovative step that’s helping secure the farm’s future for the next generation. Jill shares her story of honoring tradition while embracing change to ensure the farm thrives for another 150 years, courtesy of Compeer Financial.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drew Lerner is the founder and senior Agricultural Meteorologist at World Weather, Inc. He gives Jill Welke a long-term forecast for Wisconsin's autumn and winter. Drew also breaks down why we're seeing new summer weather patterns in America's Dairyland. Small rain chances won't likely amount to anything. Warmer, normal temperatures coming later in the Labor Day Weekend, says Stu Muck during the Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update. Jeremy Heim, a board member for the Wisconsin Custom Operators, has an update on demand as we start corn silage and winter wheat planting. Ben Jarboe reports on the "day in the life" of a custom operator. It may be late in the growing season, but it isn't too late to monitor crop health and adjust next year's game plan if you have to. Farmers are expecting a good corn and soybean crop, Certified Crop Specialist Jacob Getz tells Kiley Allan. "It's ours," Adam Johnson responded when asked why his family's sesquicentennial farm was unique. He adds that everyone involved in the farm's operations does so with pride. 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 and 150 years. Adam is the fifth generation on what was originally known as Smaland Farm in Door County.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Women’s Suffrage Movement, the Treaty of Versailles, and the beginning of the prohibition. These are all things that were taking place when the Larscheid family farm was getting started in 1919. As part of our century farm celebration Bill Larscheid joins me with his wife Debbie, and mom Judy to share the history of their Brown County farm that has created many great memories.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

100 years is a long time to keep a farm running and here at the Mid-West Farm Report we are celebrating those accomplishments in longevity. One farm in Vernon County has seen many generations of a family grow up and work the land. Diane Sung shares the history and current standing of the Storer Family Farm.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Mid-West Farm Report team is dedicated to celebrating Wisconsin farms that have made it through thick and thin over the last 100 years. One of these farms is in Price County. Jake Jirschele is here to share how his family's century farm, which started in 1916, has progressed over the last 109 years. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The new Lafayette Hospital in Darlington CEO Marie Wamsley shares how they hope to be a blueprint for rural healthcare everywhere. Ben Jarboe reports. "Fair" weather ahead, along with your chance to win $500 for sharing your fair story. Stephanie Hoff visits with Jane Stevens, a Wisconsin herbalist and author featured in the Old Farmer's Almanac. Is using the night sky to make decisions a bunch of snake oil? Jane says there's some evidence to it. Our friends at Gumz Farms in Endeavor recently hosted the Minister of Agriculture from Tamil Nadu, a southern state in India. Richard Gumz tells Kiley Allan about the experience, including the minister and his staff's interest in advanced technology and sustainability. The butter market has Ever.Ag's Katie Burgess' attention. Spot prices dropped to $2.05, the lowest level since 2021. Just yesterday, prices fell 13.5 cents, the biggest single-day drop in nearly two years. The sharp decline raises key questions: Why are prices falling at a time when demand typically increases, and could consumers see more aggressive grocery store promotions heading into the holiday season? Katie has the answers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"It's ours," Adam Johnson responded when asked why his family's sesquicentennial farm was unique. He adds that everyone involved in the farm's operations does so with pride. 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 and 150 years. These farms have also been awarded by the state of Wisconsin. Adam Johnson is the fifth generation on what was originally known as Smaland Farm in Door County. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rural Wisconsin has gotten a bit of a boost in its southwest corner with the opening of the brand-new Lafayette Hospital in Darlington. With rural healthcare being an ever-growing need, Marie Wamsley the Lafayette Hospital CEO, shares the advancements made to their facilities as well as how they hope to be a blueprint for rural healthcare everywhere. She says they employ 200 members from the community which helps both economically and with providing great service.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grotegut Dairy Farm is hosted an ACE Twilight Meeting on Wednesday, August 27. Rosario Ibarra is the General Manager of the dairy. The dairy is proud to be a member of their community, and they are eager to welcome people to their farm. Rosario shares why the family operation is excited to host the event. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re heading to Airy Point Farms in St. Cloud, Wisconsin, where thousands of dahlias burst into bloom each summer. Nicole and Derek Sippel leaped six generations of conventional dairying into agricultural tourism, hosting U-pick flowers, festivals, and community events. Nicole shares the challenges of growing dahlias, but says the rewards are greater come harvest. She says Dahlia Days at their farm has become a centerpiece for both beauty and community impact. Fall-like conditions will continue into Labor Day Weekend. Small chances of rain creep up for Southeast Wisconsin. Pam Jahnke catches up with Ashley Huhn of The Steffes Group (paid) to discuss upcoming auctions that Wisconsin farmers will want to take note of. With turbulence around staffing and funding across federal agencies, Ben Jarboe checks in with newly appointed Wisconsin Farm Service Agency Executive Director Sandy Chalmers. She says FSA has a lot of temps working in the office, but the busy season is going smoothly. Grotegut Dairy Farm is hosting an ACE Twilight Meeting this evening. Rosario Ibarra, the dairy's general manager, says they are proud to be a member of their community. They are excited to welcome people to the farm for education and discussion on important farm topics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Flyte Farms in Coloma is a unique and diverse operation. They have 700 head beef cattle, fresh market produce, You Pick, We Pick strawberries and blueberries, pumpkin picking, corn maze and more. Recently, they have become a wedding venue as well. As members of Something Special From Wisconsin, the operation offers a host of products and services. Mikayla Flyte tells us the many ways the operation is "taking flight" with Something Special From Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wisconsin is the world's leading producer of American ginseng, prized for its medicinal properties and cultural significance. But beyond its value in herbal medicine, wild ginseng also presents a unique opportunity for landowners. Today, Tony Johnson joins us. He’s a UW Extension Forestry Outreach Specialist. He tells us how landowners can benefit from protecting and cultivating wild ginseng on their property. First, Tony tells us what his role is as an Extension resource.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ask anyone in the beef or dairy world what’s changed lately, and beef-on-dairy will come up fast. And for good reason, these crossbred calves grade well, perform consistently and offer a reliable supply chain supply, all resulting in diversified on-farm income. But they also raise important questions: How do we raise them better? How do we align expectations from farm to packer? How do we make sure this segment keeps improving? Laurence Williams, beef-on-dairy development for Purina Animal Nutrition, is here today to discuss the beef-on-dairy sector and the launch of the second edition of the Beef-on-Dairy Industry Report.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Canadian dairy farmers may be doing the same thing - milking cows - as U.S. farmers, but they're maneuvering through a completely different marketing system. Pam Jahnke finds out more about the quota system in Canada from Ben Cuthbert of Silver Maple Holsteins on Vancouver Island, BC. Cuthbert is currently facing a record drought impacting available feed, and in turn feed costs. While costs may go up, because of his quota, Cuthbert cannot increase production to offset those expenses. While Canada may be parched, Wisconsin has ample soil moisture and surprising comfortable and cool temperatures. Stu Muck says that some of the early readings this morning in the north have temps as low as 43 degrees when they wake up. It's probably one of the most important tools farms have to keep the harvest rolling, but it's also probably one of the most overlooked tools. Tires. Almost every machine you rely on has them, but chances are you haven't checked their conditions or settings for a while. Ben Jarboe brushes up on what to do preharvest with Niles Davis, the owner of Nihles farm tire out of Platteville. He stresses checking wear, and addressing tire pressures before you start putting loads on the frame.Another preharvest idea farmers should consider is inviting local emergency responders and firefighters to your operation. Ryan Ripp is a farmer and chief of the Dane Fire Department. He says farms need to remember that few responders have farm experience, and may not recognize the equipment you're using. That could be life threatening if they respond to your call but don't know how to help. Cattle are the topic of conversation today with John Heinberg, market advisor with Total Farm Marketing in West Bend. He tells Pam Jahnke that the cattle market dipped momentarily when it learned that a woman in Maryland was a victim of the New World Screw Worm. Apparently she became infected while visiting Central America. It re-energized the anxiety over that pest possibly making it into the U.S. Heinberg says the latest numbers bear out that the cattle herd in Texas is shrinking. He also notes that more cattle are moving north into states like Iowa where the weather and feed sources may be more favorable.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Beef prices are definitely at the center of conversations from fast food companies to the growers on the land. Jill Welke visits with Andrew Coppin- cattle expert and CEO of Ranchbot. Coppin focuses on all aspects of beef production from weather to international influence from elements like New World Screw Worm and tariffs. He says with the way the weather's been treating ranchers in the west, the outlook for rebuilding the cattle herd gets dim. The cool weather trend continues this week around Wisconsin, but Stu Muck says the heat will return.Flyte Farms in Coloma is a unique and diverse operation. They have 700 head beef cattle, fresh market produce (potatoes and cabbage), You Pick, We Pick strawberries and blueberries, pumpkin picking, corn maze and more. Recently, they have become a wedding venue as well. Mikayla Flyte tells us the many ways the operation has benefited by being a member of Something Special From Wisconsin. Kiley Allan finds out why they're so supportive of the program and have become disciples of how it's helped them. Paid for by SSfW/WDATCP.ProFarmer Crop Tour wrapped up on Friday with record expectations for this year's corn crop. Soybeans look good too, but both crops face disease issues. Andy Peterson wraps up their findings.During this year's Taste of Madison Labor Day weekend. visitors will have a chance to sample goods from 7 Wisconsin farms that will be whipped into a culinary cup. The Compeer Food & Beverage Pairings tent will also feature some amazing creative chefs from Tricky Foods will be the masters of all the creations offered. Pam Jahnke finds out about the farms participating with Paul Dietmann from Compeer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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’re heading to Calumet County to visit with Mike Loose and his proud Century Farm. For Mike, the farm holds more than just a history of agriculture. It’s where lifelong bonds with cousins were formed. It’s also where he built a work ethic and learned life lessons that continue to shape him as a father, grandfather, husband, and friend. Mike tells us how his family’s farm began more than 100 years ago.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Grain bins are an essential part of farm operations, but they can also be some of the most dangerous. Unfortunately, every year, tragedies happen. Today, we’re talking about grain bin safety that can help save lives on Wisconsin farms. We welcome Ryan Ripp, a fourth-generation farmer raising row crops and dairy heifers north of Madison. Not only does he have his farmers’ cap on, but he’s also the Fire Chief with the Dane Fire Department.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your farm has been in the family for more than 100 or 150 years, you may want to start looking at documentation to prove that lineage. Today, we’re joined by Jeremy Schoenike, the Waupaca County Register of Deeds. His office is responsible for safeguarding land records and vital records like birth, death, and marriage certificates. If your family farm is looking to apply for the Century or Sesquicentennial Farm and Home Award Program, those records are going to be essential.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.