Podcasts about Biologicals

Season 5: Episode 211As the ag tech sector matures, the industry is finally shifting its focus from flashy innovations to solving real problems on the ground. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, Chrissy Wozniak explores how the ag tech space is becoming more practical, profitable, and proven — especially when it comes to addressing the core issue that keeps most farmers up at night: labor. Joining the conversation from St. Louis, Missouri is Connie Bowen, Founding Partner of Farmhand Ventures, a venture firm focused on the future of work in U.S. agriculture.Connie shares how her background — spanning from engineering to hands-on farm work in Oregon's Willamette Valley — shaped her laser focus on labor as agriculture's most pressing challenge. She discusses how investor enthusiasm surged after high-profile acquisitions like Monsanto's purchase of Climate Corp, but notes the disconnect between capital flowing into ag tech and the slow pace of on-farm adoption. That's where Farmhand Ventures comes in — helping startups build with the farmer, not just for them.Throughout the conversation, Connie breaks down what makes an idea investable in the ag space, why founders must collaborate closely with growers and farmworkers from day one, and how including the voices of those doing the work creates smarter, more successful tools. She explains that while sustainability and climate concerns may attract outside capital, these investors often fail to understand the farmer's “hair-on-fire” problems — like labor shortages and razor-thin margins — which must be addressed first.Connie also talks about mistakes she sees ag tech startups making, including overpromising, chasing the wrong markets, or designing without true farm-level feedback. She emphasizes the importance of field trials, user input, and ongoing proof, comparing startup success to a sports team that has to earn its wins every season. Looking ahead, she predicts robotics will play an increasingly critical role in specialty crops and emphasizes the need for tech to help elevate workers into higher-value roles rather than displacing them.This episode highlights a turning point in ag tech — one where the best solutions come from close collaboration, practical thinking, and a deep respect for the realities of farm work.Learn more about Connie and Farm Ventures at https://www.farmhandventures.com/#agtech #smartfarming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!Send us a textAgritechnica in Hannover, Germany is held every other year, this year long-time tech writer & ag journalist Willie Vogt has put together for ag enthusiasts! The Agritechnica tour includes three days at the huge equipment and farm technology event. Learn more - https://agtoursusa.com/agritechnica.htmlSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

For the past two years, Jord BioScience has studied five microbial leads in soybean seed treatments to identify biological ingredients that can spur emergence, plant health and yield. Brownfield's Brent Barnett recently sat down with Andrea Arias, Vice President of Data Science & Crop Testing with Jord BioScience to learn more about the trials and the company.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sorting through the growing number of ag products on the market today can be overwhelming, especially when every company claims to have the next big thing.

Despite a persistent sense of uncertainty in the AgTech market lately, we're still seeing startups get acquired– even if information about those acquisitions is opaque. Case in point: Syngenta recently purchased Intrinsyx Bio, a biologicals company, for an undisclosed sum. Why do companies conceal this information? And in this moment when everyone has their eyes peeled for some indication of where the market is headed, what can we learn from exits? Sarah sits down this week with Tenacious Ventures' Matthew Pryor and Shane Thomas, author of Upstream Ag Insights, to do a deep dive into the latest news and discuss what it all means. For more information and resources, visit our website. The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe the information is correct, we provide no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.

In this episode, Dr. Kate O'Brien, Director of the Department of Immunization, Vaccines, and Biologicals at the World Health Organization (WHO) shares her perspective on the state of global immunization programs halfway through Immunization Agenda 2030; the challenges associated with current measles outbreaks in the United States and around the world; why people who have never seen children die from preventable diseases may seem complacent about vaccines; steps that can be taken to strengthen vaccine confidence while ensuring equitable access to immunization programs; and what's at risk as the United States and other funders cut support for biomedical research and development at a moment when there are numerous promising products to prevent infectious diseases in the research and development pipeline.

Recorded: 4/21/25 What are biological amendments, and how can I implement them on my own farm? If you find yourself asking these questions, then this episode is for you! Ryan and Justin navigate the wild west of biological products with Dr. Connor Sible, Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois Urbana. Dr. Sible discusses the definition of biological products, deciphers biological “modes of action”, and provides practical advice for implementing them on-farm.  Hosts: Ryan Spelman and Justin Brackenrich, Penn State ExtensionGuest: Connor Sible, University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignLinks:Crop PhysiologySign up for our newsletter, Field Crop News, and follow us on Facebook!

Vet Watch: Where what you know today will protect everybody tomorrow. Join us for the premiere of Vet Watch—the new podcast from Dr. Christopher Lee, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, designed to bring you real‑world clinical insight. In our first episode, Dr. Lee sits down with board‑certified dermatologist Dr. Alice Jeromin, DVM, RPh, DACVD, to explore how isoxazoline parasiticides have reshaped flea, tick, mite, and other ectoparasite control. Alice Jeromin, RPh, DACVD—Before earning her DVM degree from The Ohio State University, Jeromin graduated from the University of Toledo with a BS in Pharmacy and practiced as a hospital pharmacist. She completed her veterinary dermatology residency with Patrick Breen and dermatopathology training at Procter & Gamble, Miami Valley Labs, as well as a fellowship in human dermatology at Metro Health Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio with Bryan Davis. Jeromin is currently an adjunct professor at Case Western Reserve University, lecturer at Northeast Ohio College of Pharmacy, and former practice owner of Veterinary Allergy & Dermatology, Inc. She is a former member-at-large on AVMA's Council on Biologicals and Therapeutics as chairman of the supplements and compounding committees. Along with publishing in human and veterinary journals, she authored the dermatology chapter in “Pharmacotherapeutics for Veterinary Dispensing”. Her interests include human-animal comparative dermatology and skin lipid research with publications in both areas.  Because of her pharmacist background of counseling patients, she is a strong believer in client education and maintains her website, www.purrfectpet.com, for clients to be educated with evidence-based information as well as an upcoming podcast "Speaking of Pets" The podcast is geared toward pet owners of allergic pets to provide them with accurate, evidence-based information.

As biological technologies continue to advance, many growers are exploring how best to integrate them into their farming operations. Nevada Smith, Head of Marketing North America, and Robert Blundell, Research Plant Pathologist, both with Pro Farm Group, highlight the role of biological pesticides and biofertilizers in sustainable winegrowing. Biological pesticides, derived from microbial sources or natural products such as plants, fungi, bacteria, or nematodes, play a crucial role in pest management by inhibiting or delaying growth or directly causing pest mortality. Understanding which biological products to use and when to apply them within an integrated pest management system is essential for maximizing their effectiveness. Biofertilizers, which enhance plant health and resilience to abiotic stresses, are another key tool for sustainable viticulture. Nevada and Robert discuss the growing importance of these technologies in improving soil health and supporting long-term agricultural productivity. Resources:         REGISTER: 5/9/25 Biochar Field Day 117: Grapevine Mildew Control with UV Light 123: What is Happening in Biologicals for Pest Management and Plant Health 266: Soft Pesticide Trial: Powdery Mildew, Downy Mildew, Botrytis, and Sour Rot Healthy Soils Playlist Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Principles ProFarm What are Biopesticides? Vineyard Team Programs: Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship - Donate SIP Certified – Show your care for the people and planet   Sustainable Ag Expo – The premiere winegrowing event of the year Vineyard Team – Become a Member Get More Subscribe wherever you listen so you never miss an episode on the latest science and research with the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast. Since 1994, Vineyard Team has been your resource for workshops and field demonstrations, research, and events dedicated to the stewardship of our natural resources. Learn more at www.vineyardteam.org.   Transcript [00:00:00] Beth Vukmanic: As biological technologies continue to advance, many growers are exploring how to best integrate them into their farming operations. [00:00:13] Welcome to Sustainable Wine, growing with Vineyard Team, where we bring you the latest in science and research for the wine industry. I'm Beth Vukmanic, executive director. [00:00:23] In today's podcast, Craig McMillan, critical resource Manager at Niner Wine Estates. With Longtime SIP certified Vineyard in the first ever SIP certified winery speaks with Nevada Smith Head of Marketing North America and Robert Blundell research plant pathologist, both with Pro Farm Group. Together, they highlight the role of biological pesticides and bio fertilizers in sustainable wine. Growing [00:00:49] biological pesticides are derived from microbial sources or natural products such as plants, fungi, bacteria, or nematodes. They play a crucial role in pest management by inhibiting or delaying growth or directly causing pest mortality [00:01:04] Understanding which biological products to use and when to apply them within an integrated pest management system is essential for maximizing their effectiveness. [00:01:13] Bio fertilizers, which enhance plant health and resilience to abiotic stresses are another key tool for sustainable viticulture, Nevada and Robert discussed the growing importance of these technologies and improving soil health and supporting long-term agricultural productivity. [00:01:30] If you're gonna be in Paso Robles, California on May 9th, 2025. Join us at Niner Wine Estates for a Biochar Field day. This interactive morning features live demonstrations and expert discussions on the benefits of biochar for soil health and sustainable farming. Learn how to integrate biochar into your farming operations through practical insights and hands-on experiences. Go to vineyard team.org/events or look for the link in the show notes to get registered. [00:02:00] Now let's listen in.   [00:02:05] Craig Macmillan: My guest today are Nevada Smith. He is Head of Marketing North America and Robert Blundell, who's a research plant pathologist, both with Pro Farm Group. Thank you for being on the podcast [00:02:15] Rob Blundell: Thank you, Craig. [00:02:16] Nevada Smith: Thank you. [00:02:18] Craig Macmillan: Today we're gonna be talking about bio pesticides and we might as well start with the the basics. What is a biological pesticide? Robert, why don't you start? [00:02:26] Rob Blundell: Yeah, that's a good question, Craig. And and you know, honestly, it's. So when I first was kind of thinking about this, it's not as simple explanation as you might think. It's a constantly kind of evolving term and depending on who you are asking, you can get a, a very different answer. And it's, it's really kind of this large umbrella term. [00:02:42] . It's kind of a microbially based product or natural product typically derived from a plant, fungi, bacteria, nematode, you know. That pretty much has the ability to inhibit or delay the growth or, you know, cause the death of a pest. [00:02:56] And you know, with the term biological pesticide, pesticide being extremely broad whether it's, you know, insect, fungi, even rodent, you know, rodent sides, things like that. So yeah, again, it's a very broad term and different, different grooves, different commodities are gonna kind of have their own explanation. [00:03:09] Even the EU has a different, I think definition versus the EPA as well. So it's an evolving, evolving term. [00:03:15] Craig Macmillan: What about you, Nevada? Do you have anything to add to that? [00:03:17] Nevada Smith: I'm kind of with Robert, it's almost like sustainability. What does that mean? It means to me, I get to keep farming every year. But I think for everyone else it might have different definitions. And I think basically the, the premise is, is it's biologically based. It's based on a living organism, something that we can repeat, regrow, and, you know, the societal part of it, bio pesticide, it means it's acting or killing or helping mitigate pest. For proform have a biologically based strategy. And so we, that's what we deliver is those type of tools. [00:03:50] Craig Macmillan: One of the major pets on grapes is powdery mildew. Around the globe. Probably the major pest overall, I would say fungal disease. I have been seeing a lot of increase in the use of bio pesticides specifically for powdery mildew, some in organic systems, some in more traditional sustainability oriented systems. [00:04:09] What kind of mechanisms are there out there in the biological world for managing powdery mildew and how does that, how do they work? Nevada, do you wanna start? [00:04:18] Nevada Smith: Yeah, so for biological pesticides, there's sort of different categories and I'll even. Even throwing some sort of organic pesticides as well into this whole mix. I think as a grower or a wine processor, you have a choice and it's like, either I'm going conventional, I'm looking to maximize my value proposition on my vineyard or my process my wines. And so one of the ways we really think about this is how do you integrate bio pesticides into the overall spray for bio mildew, like our winemaker at our place they always say, Hey, if it's more than 3% power mildew it's a no go. It's a bad day for us. And so for us to take the risk on our farm. For a biologicial pesticide, we had to have some data to really get us excited about it. [00:05:02] Overall, we wanna see performance. We need to see at least seven to 10 days. And I think that's maybe the biggest challenge a powerdy mildew issue is depending on what sort of climate and what variety of grapes you're growing is how long does it take me to get across the vineyard? [00:05:17] It's really what it comes down to. [00:05:18] And you know, maybe from a pathology point of view, Robert has some perspective. [00:05:24] Rob Blundell: The way we want to kind of think about powdery mildew is it's, you know, it's, it's always gonna be there. It's gonna be present. And biologicals, when used in the right way, can be a fantastic you know, tool in the arsenal. For, for growers or farmers against a deadly pathogen like this. [00:05:38] Growers really need to kind of consider the goal of using a biological, because there's so many different mechanisms of action of a biological, I mean, it can be live, it can be live, it can be the, you know, the spent fermentation product of a biological, which is gonna work very differently versus an actual liable organism you're gonna put in your field. [00:05:53] So kind of having a clear mindset from the, from the start is gonna be crucial to knowing. What kind of biological do you use? And also importantly, kind of when to use it as well. Because you can have drastically different outcomes based on like the time of your, you know, the time of venue production and then, and then the time of the season as well. [00:06:09] But yes yeah, ultimately there's broad, broad mechanism of actions. So if we're putting something on there live you know, you know, with something like powder mildew, this, pathogen functions because it attaches onto leaves. So we have these overwintering structures called cassia. [00:06:24] So these are basically the dormant structures that are gonna help powerdy mildew, survive. That's why it's been around for so long. That's why it's, it comes back every year. So it basically shuts down, it's fungal mycelium into these dormant hard structures. And then every year it basically reawakens around spring when we get the rainfall. [00:06:39] So we're gonna get ASCO spores. These are specialized spore structures within that kind of dormant structure. They get released out. So, you know, with the, with the weather coming in this week, that's gonna be, huge out there right now. So we're gonna get the release of those spores. [00:06:51] They're gonna land on that leaf. So really that's kind of our prime target of having protection is when they're gonna be landing and then adhesing to that leaf. So with something like a biological, if we can get that onto that leaf and then, you know, that's kind of our line of defense really. We want to be setting like a line of defense early in the season. [00:07:08] Know we have a product regalia. So that gets on there. It has these antimicrobial compounds, which the first point of contact is gonna. Prevent you know, it's gonna help mitigate that interaction between the leaf and the pathogen acts as kind of that medium layer. And then it's also gonna boost the plant's natural defense. [00:07:24] So how powdery mildew you kind of functions it. Once it gets on that leaf, it has a very specialized structure. Call it, they would call it a whole story or an appium, depending on where you are in the world and specialized structure that will kind of get through that cell wall, under that cell membrane and then sucks out the nutrients from the leaf so we can get a biological on the early to boost that plant defense, boost those, you know, defense fight hormone pathways. [00:07:46] We're gonna kind of mitigate that as a an initial point of contact. And then hopefully that's gonna set us off for a you know, a good season after that. But the time, yeah, the timing is definitely crucial. [00:07:55] Nevada Smith: I think to add to Robert's point is really to start your season off right and clean. So that's why as growers or as winemakers, you choose to use some sulfur to kind of mitigate, which is not necessarily a bio pesticide, but it could be organic, you know, depending on what your source of there. But those tools to me, are foundational for getting a clean start if you start bad, and it's gonna be a hell of a year all year long. [00:08:20] And I think that's the biggest challenge of bio pesticide uses overall is. Where do they fit, what growers they fit in? And it's not a solution for all, for sure. I mean, if you're growing Chardonnay or Pinot Noir on the Sonoma Coast in a foggy bank off of Bodega Bay, tough times, you know? But if you're in Pastor Robles, maybe in the Napa Valley in the valley where it's a little bit drier, you go in cab. Issue. You probably can integrate a nice bio pesticide program into it, and I think that's the secret. [00:08:58] Craig Macmillan: You mentioned regalia. What is the actual ingredient in regalia? What does it come from? [00:09:03] Rob Blundell: Yeah, so for Regalia the active ingredient comes from giant knotweed, so Ray Nectria. So that's a giant knotweed extract essentially that's been procured and then optimized in r and d and then applied typically as a folia spray for, for grape vines. [00:09:17] Craig Macmillan: And then the plant reacts to that, and that's what increases the plant defense mechanism. [00:09:22] Rob Blundell: Yeah, yeah, pretty much. There's kind of a few, few tiers of how, you know, Regilia kind of functions. So yeah, so we do that kind of initial application pretty much as soon as you, you have any green tissue, you know, really that's a great time to kind of get that on there. And then so the plant is gonna respond to that so typically a plant, defence pathway. [00:09:39] We have salicylic acid, so that is a key phyto hormones. So phyto hormones are kind of the driving force behind the plant defense. And this is very, you know, this is typical for all kind of pathogens, all kind of crops really. So you're gonna have a pathogen interact and we'll have its initial interaction with a plant. [00:09:55] And then you're gonna get this initial, like, response straight away from a plan. It's gonna be, Hey, I, my defenses are up. I, I sense this as a foreign agent. Basically I need to, you know, protect myself. So you get this upregulation of fighter hormones. They're very regulated. Pathways that then have these cascading effects to ultimately kind of therefore have longer term defense. [00:10:14] So you have an upregulation of fighter hormones. This is gonna signal to the plant that, Hey, I need to strengthen my cell walls, for example. So I'm gonna send more liening cell lignin being a crucial component a cell. wall . That's something we see upregulated as a result of regalia. So we get that increase in phyto hormones, we'll get lignin sent to the cell wall. [00:10:32] We get an increase in antioxidants as well to kinda help break down the pathogen as well. Limiteds effects we get polyphenols various other kind of antimicrobials as a result. So we have kind of direct effects, but then crucially with regalia, so we're gonna have the plant initially respond to its application, and then when the pathogen does. [00:10:50] Come around for a, an attack. That plan already kind of is, is heightened its responses, it's ready for it, so it's gonna be a faster kind of response time and therefore what we kind of consider more of a, a longer term defense response. [00:11:02] Craig Macmillan: Are there other modes of action, perhaps ones that are live? [00:11:05] Nevada Smith: Yeah. And that, I think that's a great point. Is there, you know, the, the bacillus category has been a big category the last dozen years or so. And this could be anything waiting from a bacillus subtles to bacillus Emli. There's other bacilli out there too. And I think they're more of an integrated approach. [00:11:22] So I conventional our farm vineyards. We're gonna just rotate it in there. So just like if you're straight organic or you're straight bio pesticide, it'd be a regalia, as an example, rotated with a bacillus product. We happen to have one as well, a very nice one called Sargus. But there's other great solutions out there in the marketplace today. There's other living organisms as well. There's some products in the Streptomyces categories as well. They're used in grow rotation, but I think to me as a grower and as a winemaker myself. I'm just looking for integration, IPM strategy all the way along. And depend on how, what your guard rails are for farming that would dictate what your options are overall. [00:12:07] Craig Macmillan: So, , to you, Robert, , how do these actually work? Like bacillus subtilis and things? [00:12:11] How do they actually either prevent or treat powdery mildew in grape. [00:12:15] Rob Blundell: Yeah, good question. So for Bacillus with Star in particular so we're actually not looking to treat powdery mildew kind of outright with this product itself. That's more where regalia is gonna come as a benefit. So actually Bacillus is great for something like botrytis in grapes. So, and this is really, really where we can kind of combine regalia and stargus together for a very effective program. [00:12:34] Kind of a one-two punch. So we, you have a live bacillus product. So we have spores that are gonna colonize a surface. So whether that's being the soil, you know, microbia the leaves or the berries, and with botrytis infecting berries causing damage, necrotic lesions in those berries, that's where something like stargus , a bacillus product can be applied to those berries to effectively colonize it. [00:12:55] And again, kind of creating like a nice. Kind of shield essentially from pretty much all fungal pathogens work the same. They have to attach, then they have to penetrate to essentially, hold on. So if we can kind of form a physical, kind of physical barrier, that's gonna be great. So for a lot of the Bacillus products they produce a suite of antimicrobials. [00:13:13] So star for our company we have a suite of antimicrobials that produces, so we have things like Itur, Phin, these are all really good antimicrobials. They're gonna have a direct effect on it. So those spores will be able to, you know, colonize the berry, for example, and then help Yeah. Prevent prevent powerdy mildew So you have this live culture essentially that's on the grapes and it's producing compounds, and that's where the, the antimicrobial comes in or the antifungal comes in. [00:13:40] Nevada Smith: Yes. And. [00:13:47] So there's two registrations from an EPA standpoint. There's the live bacteria count, which people are familiar with from back in the day when there was bts, right cells ths for worm protection. And so we measure the CFUs, which is a colony forming unit. So the bacteria, and there's a minimum threshold that we have for our product as well as anybody else that registers their bacteria. Just sort of a quality control thing for the grower to know this is the level we produce. What we. Seeing the production for our solution is really around the chemical compounds being created in the fermentation process, this lipopeptides cycle. And so that's what's important to know that there's some differentiation. [00:14:25] And I always use the example, I'm a huge basketball fan and you know, there's a difference between Michael Jordan and myself. I'm not at his level. And so not all bacilli are created equal, but they all do have some performance values for them. And obviously, you know, the more you can look into science and whether it be uc, extension and the Gubler Eskalen models and local trial researchers will give you the value proposition each of these products brings to you. [00:14:50] Craig Macmillan: Now, this is something that I, I don't think I've heard before and I wanna make sure that I heard it correctly. So, some of the protection is actually coming from things that are being produced during the fermentation production of the bacteria themselves. And so these are side things. And then that makes it into the final product. [00:15:05] Nevada Smith: Yeah, that's actually the most important thing on foliar. So holistically for bacillus, and this is a very broad brush here unless you're in a tropical environment like bananas in. Columbia or Costa Rica, you're not growing more spores on the leaf surface. You might have that happen a little bit depending on sort of your micro environments. What you really want is coverage and then that eradicates. [00:15:29] The way that the the bacillus really works, it really pokes holes into the cell wall of power mildew. So that's, and it just kinda leaks out and dies. And so it's botrytis , and or powder mildew. That's the major effects that it has on these pest diseases. [00:15:43] But in those rare examples, I'll tell you, we've seen some results of our products being used in crops and tropical environments. If it can grow, it's creating more value. Now let's talk about something different. You put bacillus. Sargus into the ground in a soil treatment. It has tremendous effects on colonizing around the roots. [00:16:01] And so that's where bacillus is actually known in its natural environment into the soil profile. So that's where we really see that the one two value. Now, that's not what we're using it for in grapes. Grapes, is for foliar control of. And mild diseases. But we have many other crops that we use bacillus for like corn, for root management and prolification around the diseases down there. [00:16:27] Craig Macmillan: Do you have anything to add to that, Robert?  [00:16:29] Rob Blundell: Yeah, so that's, yeah, excellent points from Nevada. So yeah, kind, kind of getting, talking about how we can use bacillus, you know, actually to go into the soil. So something like nematodes, you know, that's, that's a huge issue in grapes always has been. It's where we have, you know, root stocks engineered over the years to have, you know, nematode resistant root stocks. [00:16:43] Again, not, not kind of the primary purpose of what we'd be looking to use stargus, and vineyards, but again, having a soil colonizer is fantastic. You know, a lot of the. The majority of diseases, especially in like the row crops, they're coming from the below ground. You know, you've got the pythium and lettuce. [00:16:57] You've got like sclero, things like that, huge kind of soil-borne pathogens. So again, having something that you can add to the soil, you know, the soil already has its own fantastic suite of, naturally present. You know, bacteria, fungi, that's, you know, like Nevada said, that's what we got ab baus from, stargus from. [00:17:12] So we're just kind of adding to that to kind of help boost the fight. And we can always kind of think of the interaction between pathogens and plants as kind of this arms race. There's a ways, you know, the pathogen kind of gets ahead by evolving slightly, and then you have the ho response from the plant and then the, the microbiome as well. [00:17:27] So we're just trying to kind of tip the scales and our balance is how a good way to kind of think of biologicals as well. And I think as you were mentioning, kind of the, the fermentation process, and that's where we get our microbials from. [00:17:37] Every microbe has primary metabolites. That's what's key to basically the survival of a microbe. But then we have secondary metabolites, and these are very highly specialized products that get produced. For bacillus, during that fermentation process, this is a, you know, these are unique metabolites. You know, metabolites are produced by the majority of. Micros, but the in particular can produce these like fantastic suite of very unique metabolites. So that's where the, a non-life product kind of comes into itself as well. By us able to understand what are those metabolites we're producing same fermentation, can we optimize those? And then do we, do we even need a live product as a result of that? [00:18:12] Craig Macmillan: Um, it sounds like this could have a really dramatic impact or role in fungicide resistance management. I. What is that role? Or are we talking about going over completely to biological for a program or are we including in a rotation with other materials? What about organic growing where we have a, a little smaller suite of things that we can use? [00:18:35] Nevada Smith: , I'll start with that if you don't mind. [00:18:36] I think it's a great question and where I see it fitting is most synthetic pesticides for disease control are really affecting the mitochondria on the inside of the dupo. And where I see it fitting is the sort of one, two, I would say contact plus systemic. That's an a de-risk, your resistance management issues. But B, increase the likelihood that those products work better and longer. [00:19:02] So today we position a product like Sargus other bacillus products in the marketplace to be in combination with a. SDHI chemistry, like Luna would be an example of that, or Pristine. We would see those integrated in the cycle of sprays, which is, it's very similar to why you use sulfur with those products as well. [00:19:23] But I think, you know, as a winemaker, I want less sulfur my crop as possible, but obviously I want, as a farmer too, I want it to be clean as can be. So it's kind of this yin and yang overall. [00:19:33] But for resistance management, I think you have to really think about the whole approach. And once again, back guardrails. Of what your restrictions are for you as a farmer and maybe the winemaker working together with them. How do you really get to the. And, you know, I, it's kind of a joke too, but we talked about earlier the word sustainability be very broad. Stroke. Well, I'm wanna farm into the future years. I wanna have that vineyard for a hundred years and not to replant it. So I'm really trying to keep as clean as possible all the time, especially for the over wintering stuff. And so to me early often protection, control contact plus systemic is the approach that we take at our farm as well. [00:20:10] Craig Macmillan: When we say earlier, are we talking bud break, two inches, four leaves?   [00:20:15] Nevada Smith: For powder. Yeah. But then we could debate, you know, on these opsis issues and can cane issues. [00:20:24] Craig Macmillan: When would I wanna put on a bacillus? [00:20:27] Nevada Smith: I would start with a sulfur spray about bud break here, and then kind of rotate back into the bloom time for the first bloom spray, about 50% bloom, more or less. I kind of time it too, and if it's a little later, I'm okay with that. That would be the major time where I get the first shots on and that we, I would start with regalia, for example, just because it's a different mode of action. And then I'd come back with the bacillus here about seven to 10 days later. [00:20:51] Craig Macmillan: And would you then include synthetic materials as well, I'm assuming. [00:20:55] Nevada Smith: Yeah, on our farm we would typically our biggest issue is getting across the, the vineyard. And so we're looking to start off with a synthetic material first, just so we can get a nice, well, sulfur first, sorry. That probably like A-S-D-H-I chemistry. And then I'd start to think about how can I integrate my approaches to, being softer chemistry based through the rest of the season. [00:21:17] Craig Macmillan: Does that make sense to you, Robert? [00:21:19] Rob Blundell: Yes. And actually I'm just gonna jump back a little bit in our conversation. I just add a few more details kind of on this approach as well. So yeah, a little bit earlier, I kinda mentioned this arms race between the pathogen and the host and, you know, the available treatments that we have and really kind of a huge benefit of. Adding a biological, say, into your conventional program or just introducing more biologicals in general for your, your fungicides is you know, as, as Nata was saying, you know, a lot of the conventional chemistry is targeted in that mitochondria. It's a very specialized kind of function. It's there, it does a great job when it works well, but then. [00:21:51] We get pathogen resistance, obviously. So there's kind of two types of resistance. You get qualitative resistance and quantitative. So qualitative is when there is a kind of sudden or abrupt loss in the ability of say, a fungicide to work. And then you have quantitative where it's kind of more of a gradual decline in effectiveness. [00:22:08] And then you get kind of these varying levels of fungicide sensitivity versus that qualitative where you're having either resistant or a sensitive is isolate. And this. It's great. We're talking about grapes and powerdy mildew, 'cause this is one of like, this is like the classic textbook example. We kind of get taught in pathology about this because powerdy mildew, it has these really quick cycling times, produces a number of generations per season, very easily dispersed. [00:22:28] So this is such a high risk kind of category for this fungicide resistance. So again, if we have just a whole range of availabilities in terms of different fungicide options, you know, chemistry, soft chemistry, biologicals various other options, we're just kind of increasing our chances of really. Just well, and one not having any pathogen resistance. [00:22:49] Because again, as soon as you have that, then you have you, you really lose your options for your chemistries. So again, just, you know, introducing a few biologicals here and there, especially for, you know, grapes on the West coast, which is the amount of sprays we're having to do in other states where you have less sprays, you can kind of get away with kind of not considering your approach a little bit more. [00:23:05] You don't have to kind of. Do your frack checks as much because maybe you're only doing one or two sprays. But here we have to be very, very concerned with our, you know, what products we're using and then at what timing they're using. So again, just having a biological to really kind of take the pressure off some of those chemistries is a, is a huge a huge, valuable source of preserving the life of your chemistry. [00:23:23] And then have, like Nevada said, you know, having sustainable wines for the years to come. [00:23:28] Craig Macmillan: Actually, that made me think of something. Is there a risk of resistance being developed to biological strategies? [00:23:38] Rob Blundell: Yeah, that's, that's a really good question. So yes. [00:23:41] It's kind of a newer question. Yeah. So again, with a lot of these chemistries being very, very site specific function, all you have to do is have a very small mutation in your, say, powerdy mildew, to overcome that. And typically with biologicals, the typically, I say typically the mode of action is a little bit more broad. [00:23:57] So very rarely are you gonna have an extremely like. , so like a lot of the chemistries buy into certain receptors that their job that do that really well. Biologicals don't tend to do that as much. They're more of a broad spectrum. That's why we see a, like for our fungicides, we see a range of control against a lot of different, you know, powerd mildew, we've got ascomiscies,, Presidio, my seeds, they pretty much do well across a range because they are more broad spectrum. [00:24:19] Not to say that in time we're gonna start to see a decline. It's, you know, again, it's kind of really how we consider using them. And we. Whether we wanna like, fully rely on them or hey, that's, let's, let's use more of a, a combined approach. So again, we just really make that sustainable as well. [00:24:33] So kind of to answer your question definitely it comes with risk but kind of inherently due to the more broad spectrum nature of biologicals, we're not too worried about the kind of resistance that we've seen developed as a result of c chemistries in that very, very specific function of a chemistry. [00:24:48] Craig Macmillan: That makes a lot of sense. I know that you had mentioned you're farming in a more traditional fashion, Nevada, but your products, and obviously I know some folks in the organic area. What role do biologicals play in an organic fungicide program? Nevada? [00:25:03] Nevada Smith: I think it's definitely at the core of your foundation of seeing how you are gonna approach powerdy, mildew and botrytus. Is it a typical, you know, seven spray system, which I'd say it's kind of typical for the northern coast markets or the coastal range. Or if you're in the valley floor are you more in that three to five applications for bio pesticides and, and what timing and how you're approaching those things are critical overall to assessing those on the organic. [00:25:30] You don't have to be just organic. You could be, from a theoretical point of view, you can just choose to be this type of farmer, which is, I want to choose softer chemistries. And I think that's the mixed bag that we deal with with customers, a crop and the crop advisors out there. [00:25:44] Rob Blundell: Yeah, and I was gonna say just to kinda add to that as well. So again, regardless whether you're doing organic or chemistry or biologicals, you know. Really key as well. Foundation is just having good cultural control as well. Something we haven't really touched on today, but again, you can really increase the effectiveness of your biological, your chemistry based on what you're doing in, in the vineyard. [00:26:02] So, you know, things like, you know, canopy thinning, so if you're using say, a biological, you wanna try to colonize those berries, you wanna kind of thin out that kind of piece. You're getting a better spray coverage. You're also gonna, you know, reduce the humidity and that kind of pee of things like mildew you know, effective pruning in dry conditions. [00:26:18] Navar was kind of talking about opsis, some of those canker pathogens. So those grapevine trunk diseases, that is still the most effective way to control a grapevine trunk disease is just to prune under the right conditions. 'cause you need that wound, that pruning wound to heal when it's, you're not gonna get a, let's see, you know, we got that ring coming in this week. [00:26:33] So, grapevine trunk disease is dormant on those on the, on the parts of the vine. They're gonna be airborne. So you need to make sure there's a very good dry window. So again, like cultural practice is always, always key to whatever approach or biologicals or chemicals. [00:26:46] Nevada Smith: I think the add to that, one of the biggest things I remember, I wanna say it's like in 2010, I saw Gubler trials, Gubler, uc, Davis, you know, famous for everything. And he had the trial and all he did was pull leaves. On the bunch closures, and I was like, wow, that looked amazing. And I said, what? What spray did you have on there? [00:27:02] And they're like, nothing. We just pulled leaves and just literally that airflow coming across there, drying out, I assume it was just drying out the spores was amazing. I was like, wow. But then I started doing the cost analysis as a grower. I'm like, I can't send a crew there and pull leaves all the time. So, [00:27:19] Craig Macmillan: Yeah, it's true. I mean, and that's why it's a mix of things. I think. It's integrated pest management. You, you know, you do want to get some airflow through there. You will probably do some canopy management, whether you do shoot thinning or leaf removal. Some of that also helps with coverage. [00:27:32] Right. So using a mix of cultural and chemical or pesticide techniques is probably, probably wise. I'm not a pest control advisor, so I probably shouldn't say that. I. But I think I, you, they're not the first folks that have, have reminded me of that. And sometimes I know that, I think we kind of forget. [00:27:49] I wanna change topics a little bit. There's a, I don't wanna say new, but new to me. Area bio fertilizers a totally different kind of strategy for plant nutrition Nevada. What is a bio fertilizer? What, how do they work? What is it and how does it work? [00:28:05] Nevada Smith: So bio fertilizers can be a multitude of things, but once again, back to bio based on living organisms prior living organisms. We happen to have one that we're just launching this year into the grape industry called Illustra. It's based on this unique technology, UBP. Universal biological platform. I'm not trying to be a billboard ad here, but the reason why I'm bringing it up is it, it's really is a platform, which is interesting about it because it's, it's a technology that we can change and manipulate depending on how we go through the production cycle. And so we're creating tools that are more made for abiotic stresses. [00:28:39] And so we're trying to deal with different stresses that. Crop can deal with. And so right now the core market that we've been using these products , for is like soybeans and corn. [00:28:49] But as we think about the permanent crop markets of grapes, tree nuts, citrus, it's a little bit different as far as cycle and how you approach it. And so what we've seen through the data, these bio fertilizers is really trying to mitigate abiotic stresses. So what we're really mitigating is one, like you, you think about herbicide applications. You kind do a banded application near the tree trunk into about a third of the spray row. That herbicide usually hits that tree trunk. [00:29:14] There is a cause and effect on the grapevine itself. What if you could put a tool down that was sprayed on the same time to mitigate that stress or de-stress it from even how much time and pressure it's having? So. Our product is really one of those tools today that's really focused on mitigating biotic stresses. [00:29:30] Other things I can think about as a farmer is like salinity in the soil. The roots are pushing. You have water issues in California. We all talk about that. How do you mitigate the plant that still maximize the yield? So. Choosing the bio fertilizer today that's really focused on that, not just being a typical, you know, can 17 or un 30 twos based nitrogen based products. [00:29:51] This is something else to bring into the marketplace. They're kind of more niche based, depending on what you're dealing with. But there there's several out there. There's, seaweed extracts would be a big one, right? That people use a lot around farms. There's humic, andic acids, organic acids in general. So those are the kind of the buckets of items today that farmers are choosing for bio fertilizers. [00:30:14] Rob Blundell: Hmm. Yeah. And I can yeah, touch a little bit more on the, on the UBP illustrate product as well in terms of kind of how, how that really functions. And as Navar said, it's, you know, helping bounce back after, say, some herbicide damage, promoting that early season boost in biomass. [00:30:27] So, you know, a product like this, this UBP will basically kind of. Inducing cell division. So in you know, increasing mitochondrial activity, more cell division essentially leads to more chlorophyll, more photosynthesis graded by a mass production. And it's actually done by acidifying the cell wall. So we acidify a cell wall. You get more what we have these, there's proton pumps on these cell wall. [00:30:48] We're basically pumping in more protons, increasing the rate of that cell division. So we're basically yeah, boosting that in ocean season biomass. Therefore having that. You know, quicker resilience to say, you know, abiotic stresses like no said, whether it's salinity, salt, drought, water, things like that. [00:31:02] So yeah, numerous, numerous benefits of some of these fertilizers. [00:31:07] Craig Macmillan: Which actually talking about antibiotic stress, that it reminds me of something. I want to apply it to this, but I also want to go back. If you're using a live material, a bacillus or something, or if you have a, a bio fertilizer that may is are there living things in bio fertilizers. [00:31:22] Nevada Smith: There can be, [00:31:24] uh [00:31:24] Craig Macmillan: be. Okay. [00:31:25] Nevada Smith: We don't have anything in ours today, but I think there are, let's call the word impregnated Fertilizers. With living organisms. It could be trico, dermas, it could be other things, bacillus. And those are good, good tools to use. [00:31:39] The hard part is like, you know, now we start to open the can of worms around like compost tea, like what's in there. And I think that's the biggest challenge that growers, those things do work as a whole. But then you start to run into the quality assurance, quality control. And I think that's where companies invest in the bio pesticide industry are really trying to. Tell the story and not just be perceived as snake oils and saying, Hey, replicated work we measure to this level, like CFU content and here's what we expect results to be consistently. [00:32:08] And this is sort of the shelf life issues and we're kind of getting as a, you know, the world evolves. I think there's just this environmental things that people choose to do. And I think, you know, everything works. Just a question of how you integrate it into your own farming systems. [00:32:24] Craig Macmillan: So speaking of environmental factors and antibiotic stress one thing that's occurred to me is that if I have something that's that's out there, either that's living or maybe maybe a fragile compound, how do things like drought and heat affect these materials in the field? [00:32:38] Rob Blundell: Yeah. Yeah, very good question. I think historically that was always kind of. What people thought of the negative of biologicals were like, well, is only gonna work under certain conditions. You know, where, where have you tested it? So yeah, it's, it's a good question as well. [00:32:50] It's , case by case dependent you know, certain extremes and temperatures, various conditions as well are gonna have effects on, you know, the, the longevity of that. But we, you know, we try to test it under. There a variety of conditions. And then for particularly something you know, with our fungicides as well for, for the grape industry, you know, these new be tested on a variety of key varietals as well. [00:33:10] You know, it's, Hey, it might work for Chardonnay but not for Sauvignon Blanc. So that's important to evaluate as well, rather than just bring a product to market that like you, it's only gonna work on very certain aspects of a, of the single industry. [00:33:22] Craig Macmillan: So heat as an example, , you have a fair amount of confidence that I can apply something in the, in the heat if I have a hot, dry condition in the summer that it's not going to. Break down those materials that are there from the fermentation or kill the live organism. We, we think there's a fair amount of resilience here. [00:33:39] Rob Blundell: Yeah, again, definitely gonna be dependent on the, the type of microbe and the type of metabolite that it's producing. But you know, microbes in nature are exposed to these extreme conditions just naturally anyway, you know, so we have epi amplified slipping on the surface of products. So on the surface of. [00:33:54] Structures. So like a grapevine, like a leaf. They're obviously out there and exposed to the elements every single day. And then the soil is a, is a chaotic environment. There's a lot going on in the soil. So microbes are just, you know, extremely resilient in nature themselves. So there's gonna be a, again it's gonna vary depending on, you know, the microbe and, and the product we're using. [00:34:12] But there's good efficacy. [00:34:16] Craig Macmillan: What's the future? What is the future looking like for biological products, living or extra? [00:34:23] Nevada Smith: for the marketing hat on myself, not the farmer side. [00:34:27] It, I think everything's coming down to specialized sprays. And if I had to vision what the features look like to me, it's gonna be about. Seeing robots down the vineyard. They have 18 different things and their little mechanisms and there's, they're just, they're analogizing what's going on in that grape cluster itself. [00:34:44] They're spot spraying three or four things and they're going down the next level. That to me, is where we're gonna get down to the future, where the grapes themselves will naturally grow less chemicals to be used overall. [00:34:54] but if you need to go through and really take care of a problem, you're gonna go through and take care of a problem. And I think that's where it's become very exciting to me. You're gonna put less of a prophylactic spray across all systems, and you're kind of really create some microenvironments where you think that Vine number seven got sprayed a lot. Vine number 21 has not been sprayed all season. Wonder why? Let's go check it out. Let's understand and investigate. [00:35:18] The other big thing I think in grapes that's really interesting from exploratory research and development side for our company is like viruses. Viruses have not been addressed and it's becoming an issue. It's something I want to kind of explore and put on our docket of, you know, assessment stuff and how we can take new technologies to really improve virus transmissions. How do you mitigate once you have a virus? And it still produce that vine for another 10 plus years. So it gets quality and quantity out of it. Those are the kind of things interesting to me. [00:35:50] Craig Macmillan: Robert. [00:35:51] Rob Blundell: Yeah, definitely. Yeah, really good point, Sarah as well. And yeah, viruses in particular is, is something we see about in the grapevine industry. And yeah, often biological companies we're focused on, you know, the, the fungal issues, the bacteria, the, the nematodes. So that's, that's a huge area that really needs some more dedication. [00:36:06] So there's gonna be some great technologies available for that in the future. Yeah, I think to speak to no Nevada's points on kind of the future of it, I think like a really kind of custom tailored approach is gonna be available for those that want it. Particularly from the pathology side of my interest. [00:36:19] I think precision monitoring and detection of disease is just, I. Advancing leaps and bounds. So again, like, you know, going out there and doing scouting, hopefully people are gonna have a lot better tools available, available to 'em in the near future to really kind of understand crucial times in their season where disease is coming in. [00:36:36] And then again, like I. Just having better tools to kind of really actually di inform us of the pathogen as well that's present rather than just again, a lot of, a lot of diseases is hard to pinpoint to an exact pathogen. We're lucky in grapes, powerdy, mildew, and, botrytis are very obvious. We know what those are, we think are some of the row crops. [00:36:52] It could be a whole host of things. We've got nematodes, we've got various sore pathogens that we can't actually see. So I think yeah, improving disease diagnosis and detection, having these precision tools is gonna be a huge part of the future where biologicals can integrate themselves in as well. [00:37:07] Craig Macmillan: That sounds pretty exciting. I wanna thank you both for being on the program. This has been a really great conversation. My guests today we're Nevada Smith. He is the head of Marketing North America and Robert Blande, who's a research plant pathologist, both with Pro Farm Group. Thanks for being on the podcast. [00:37:22] Nevada Smith: Appreciate you. [00:37:23] Rob Blundell: Thank you very much, Craig. It was a pleasure. [00:37:25] Craig Macmillan: And to our listeners, thank you for listening to Sustainable Wine Growing Vineyard team. [00:37:29] Nevada Smith: Craig, one more thing. We gotta just drink more wine.  [00:37:40] Beth Vukmanic: Thank you for listening. [00:37:41] Today's podcast was brought to you by Vineyard Industry Products serving the needs of growers since 1979. Vineyard industry products believes that integrity is vital to building long-term customer, employee, and vendor relationships. And they work hard to provide quality products at the best prices they can find. Vineyard industry products gives back investing in both the community and the industry. [00:38:06] Make sure you check out the show notes for links to Pro Farm, an article titled, what are Bio Pesticides Plus Related Sustainable Wine Growing Podcast episodes. 117 Grapevine Mildew Control with UV Light 123. What's happening in biologicals for pest management and plant health? 266 Soft pesticide trial for powdery mildew, downy mildew, botrytis and sour rot, and a healthy soils playlist. [00:38:34] If you'd like the show, do us a big favor by sharing it with a friend, subscribing and leaving us a review. You can find all of the podcasts on vineyard team.org/podcast, and you can reach us at podcast@vineyardteam.org. Until next time, this is Sustainable Wine Growing with the Vineyard team.   Nearly perfect transcription by Descript

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this week's episode, we dive into the latest agriculture policy news including recently announced released funding, a new biofuel policy and an executive order signed by President Trump aimed at boosting domestic mineral production in addition to an interview discussing more about biologicals. This week's ag news cover updates from the USDA on the hog and cattle industries, calls from agricultural groups for shipping exemptions in response to new fees on Chinese vessels and a report showing an upward trend in meat consumption. Additionally, this week's market update features insights on planting intentions from various agricultural organizations. Our interview this week is with Adam Kayser, Global Product Technical Manager at Novonesis, discussing all things biologicals and what farmers should know about the area. He shares insights into the company's focus this spring and factors to consider when evaluating return on investment. Stay connected with us for more agriculture content on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, along with our weekly videos!

How to overcome the biggest challenge to selling biologicals After reading through a recent survey conducted by Crop Life Magazine on selling biologicals, I think it's important to understand a key element from that survey.  While the survey focuses on crop producers, you could easily adapt this to selling certain livestock products as well.  Animal […]

Tim and Tyler talk to Bill Brady about his philosophy for building teams, boards, and companies, while also digging into his current company, Kula Bio. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Kula Bio - https://www.kulabio.com  Kula Bio on Aglist - https://aglist.com/manufacturer/kula-bio  AgList - https://aglist.com 

We launched Yelp for Biologicals! Check it out at AgList.com. — This month, Tim and Tyler talk with Ariel about her latest Topsoil edition - "The price is right (even when it's low) - A framework for commodity crop prices in agriculture." Ariel Patton is the creator of Topsoil, a newsletter bringing you monthly frameworks to help make sense of agriculture, at just the right depth. Ariel has focused her career on driving digital transformation of agriculture to help farmers manage their businesses more profitably and sustainably at Monsanto, Granular, Corteva, Mineral, and now, Innerplant. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Topsoil - https://topsoil.substack.com Ariel on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielpatton/ AgList - https://aglist.com

Tim ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/timnuss/ ) and Tyler ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nuss/ ) talk to Andrew Duff ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-duff-um-reb2000/ ) about the biological space, why mycorrhizal fungi matters, and why Groundwork BioAg was an early believer in AgList. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Groundwork BioAg - https://groundworkbioag.com  Groundwork BioAg on AgList - https://aglist.com/manufacturer/groundwork-bioag AgList: Yelp for Biologicals - https://aglist.com World AgriTech - https://worldagritechusa.com/program/ 

We launched Yelp for Biologicals! Check it out at AgList.com. — A principal with Pinion, Brian leads the firm's Government and Public Affairs service area. With a background in environmental law and regulations, he identifies and educates business owners on how to influence and change political systems for a market advantage. Recent successes include: Saving U.S. farmers an estimated $5 billion, collectively, by initiating the Farmers for Tax Fairness coalition to oppose changes to cash accounting, resulting in an ag exemption in the House tax reform draft bill. Leading an ongoing effort to change tax code to allow thousands of mutual ditch, irrigation, and water companies to access private investment to upgrade aging water infrastructure. Led a coalition instrumental in the passage of the United States-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA). USMCA is critical for U.S. agriculture and ensures preferential market access for our farmers. Pulling together a partnership of tribes and dairy farmers to develop a biogas facility and turn dairy manure into 450 kilowatts of power. This effort eliminated a lawsuit threat, increased dairy herd size, and enhanced salmon protection. Helping establish a habitat exchange to offset habitat impacts from mineral development by providing incentives to landowner and industry for land and water stewardship. Brian is a founder of Vela Environmental, a consulting firm supporting long-term business sustainability that became part of the firm in 2013. During the past 20 years, he has served as chief of staff, legislative director, and environmental and energy adviser to U.S. Senator Max Baucus. A leader in sustainability, he was awarded the Loeb Fellowship at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design and selected as a U.S.-Japan Leadership Foundation Fellow. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Pinion - https://www.pinionglobal.com/people/brian-kuehl/ Resources for Affected USA Employees - https://www.linkedin.com/in/constancebowen/ & https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-cain-9734b644/

We launched Yelp for Biologicals! Check it out at AgList.com. — Arun Ohri was Tim's pick for 2024 Ag Person of the Year on our annual Acre Awards. Arun Ohri (Arunohri@hotmail.com) is a farmer who owns both Jubilant Earth Nursery and AAA Land Management. He was raised by a family of farmers who grew peaches on 20 acres in Yuba City.  Thirty-six years ago, they also planted walnut trees in what Ohri describes as really bad conditions – “muck.” Those trees have since adapted to rough conditions. Ohri stresses these aren't genetically modified trees — they have naturally evolved to be able to thrive in poor soil and Jubilant  Earth Nursery now sells them.  Ohri says these seeds are hardier and make going organic more easy. On his own 1600-acre farm, he currently grows walnuts and almonds. About 400 acres are organic, and he's working on transitioning the remaining 1,200 acres. Arun has recently scaled his biological product, Worm Fuel, and also has a DTC nut butter company, Amazing Nut Company. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Amazing Nut Company - https://amazingnutcompany.com/ AgList - https://aglist.com

We launched Yelp for Biologicals! Check it out at AgList.com. — This month, Tim and Tyler talk with Ariel about her latest Topsoil edition - "The price is right (even when it's low) - A framework for commodity crop prices in agriculture." Ariel Patton is the creator of Topsoil, a newsletter bringing you monthly frameworks to help make sense of agriculture, at just the right depth. Ariel has focused her career on driving digital transformation of agriculture to help farmers manage their businesses more profitably and sustainably at Monsanto, Granular, Corteva, Mineral, and now, Innerplant. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links Topsoil - https://topsoil.substack.com Ariel on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielpatton/ AgList - https://aglist.com

We launched Yelp for Biologicals! Check it out at AgList.com. — Jack Richardson is kicking off a new and improved version of The Modern Acre newsletter. After starting his career in venture banking, Jack has spent the last five years in AgTech, first at a food waste startup and now in precision technology at an Ag OEM. He's spent most of his career in strategy roles where he's explored ways to make business models work. Outside of his specific roles, he's written about the space more broadly – you may have come across his prior writing on LinkedIn. In tandem with the contributing to the monthly newsletter, Jack will join us on the podcast every month to break down his latest research and dig into the strategy behind the topic he's covering. This month we dig into breaking down the fascinating business of Erewhon. Check out the newsletter here. — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links AgList - https://aglist.com Newsletter - https://themodernacre.substack.com Tyler on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nuss/ Tim on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timnuss/

We're so excited to announce a project that's been in the works for almost a year: AgList.com. AgList is an online platform that allows farmers to discover and endorse biologicals. Tune in to hear more about why we built it and how you can join the fun on AgList.com. Special shout out to our launch partners, who believed in our vision before it was built and provided crucial feedback: Pivot Bio, Vestaron, Groundwork BioAg, Kula Bio, Certis Biologicals, Corteva Agriscience, Sound Ag, and Indigo. THANK YOU! — This episode is presented by MyLand. Learn more HERE. — Links AgList - https://aglist.com A Letter from Tim and Tyler - https://aglist.com/about-us Newsletter AgList Overview - https://themodernacre.substack.com Tyler on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyler-nuss/ Tim on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/timnuss/

Biologicals are everywhere—but which ones deliver? In this episode, Cornelius Seed Podcast host Juan alongside James Cornelius and guest Jason Ladman from Streamline AG explore why Cornelius Seed partnered with Streamline AG and how their products, like TuneUp+ (Corn & Soybeans), TuneUp+ Ether, Convert, and Residue Release, are driving better results for farmers. From early-season root development to effective residue management, they dive into strategies for boosting yields, improving soil health, and tackling industry challenges. Tune in for an honest conversation on vetting products and making informed decisions for your farm. Learn More:Streamline Ag - Cornelius Seed

There's nothing like the end of another year to have us reflecting on the recent successes in the world of agtech, and the many challenges still left to overcome. One thing that has continued to stand out to us in 2024 is the vital need for more business model innovation. There's so much amazing technology that already exists, but for one reason or another, it is not getting adopted or utilized; it's not delivering on the promised impact or commercial potential. Over the last twelve months we've talked to countless entrepreneurs and innovators who are finding novel and fascinating ways to overcome business model barriers, even when they aren't using those words to describe their efforts. So this week, Sarah is sitting down with Tenacious Ventures Managing Partner Matthew Pryor to connect the dots on business model innovation that we've discussed in different podcast episodes all year long. For more information and resources, visit our website. The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should read the information memorandum and seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe Information is correct, no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.

If you farm today, you've heard a lot about sustainability and using biologicals to boost plant health and profitability. In this edition of Innovations in Agriculture, Jared White talks with Shannon Gnad, Director of Agronomy for Indigo Ag, Inc. about their new proprietary CLIPS device, a new, no-touch method for farmers to apply flowable powder products to their seed. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today's “bleeding edge” and “cutting edge” technologies are moving into the mainstream at a breakneck pace, and yesterday's science fiction will soon be tomorrow's science-based reality. How can potato growers and supply chain partners hope to keep up? Global futurist, best-selling author, and Potato Expo 2025 speaker Jack Uldrich called into the Eye on Potatoes Podcast to preview his keynote session on how artificial intelligence is transforming farming and agriculture, and how related advances in robotics, synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and quantum computing are all converging at this unique time in human history. Don't miss his session. Register to join us at potato-expo.com. Artificial Intelligence, Biologicals, Technology, and the Future of Farming

Inside Agriculture Segment 4

Host: Joni Kindwall-Moore Guests: Steve Becker (Chief Science Officer) and Dennis Warnecke (Director of Sales and Technical Support), Tainio BiologicalsEpisode Overview: In this enlightening episode of "Regenerative by Design," host Joni Kindwall-Moore sits down with Steve Becker and Dennis from Tainio Biologicals to discuss the transformative power of focusing on soil health in agriculture. This conversation explores the intricate relationships within the soil ecosystem, particularly the critical role of microbes in supporting plant health and nutrition.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The Origins of Tainio Biologicals: Learn about the innovative approach Bruce Tainio took in the 1980s to enhance plant resistance and health through microbial support and balanced nutrition.The Importance of Microbes: Steve delves into the role of microbes, including bacteria and fungi, in aiding plants to access essential nutrients and boost their immune systems.Practical Applications for Farmers: Dennis discusses how Tainio Biologicals assists farmers in implementing soil health programs that lead to sustainable crop production and improved food quality.Environmental Impacts: Explore how regenerative farming practices contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing harmful nitrogen runoff, increasing carbon sequestration, and enhancing overall ecosystem resilience.Future of Agriculture: The episode discusses the broader implications of regenerative agriculture practices in addressing global food system challenges and promoting long-term sustainability.Key Quotes:"Farmers in America can have a greater impact on human health than all the doctors or medicines that exist today." - Quoted from Bruce Tainio"Think of the rhizosphere like the digestive system of a patient in ICU. It's all about interdisciplinary care, but for crops." - Joni Kindwall-MooreEpisode Resources:Tainio Biologicals Website: Visit TainioContact: info@tainio.com for inquiries on how to integrate these practices into your farming operations.Call to Action: If this conversation inspired you, consider diving deeper into the principles of regenerative agriculture to see how you might apply them to your farming practices or support local farmers who do. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who are passionate about sustainable agriculture and the future of food.Rate and Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please head over to Apple Podcasts to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps us grow our audience and reach more listeners like you who are passionate about sustainable agriculture and innovation in food systems.Join Us Next Time: Tune in next week for another fascinating discussion on "Regenerative by Design," where we will explore innovative solutions to combat climate change through agricultural practices. Don't miss it!To learn more about Tainio Biologicals, Inc., please visit tainio.com.Regenerative by design is hosted by Snacktivist.  Snacktivist creates baking mixes and finished products that are allergy-friendly, soil, water, and carbon-focused, all while radically impacting human nutrition by transforming staple foods into something more than just empty calories.   Visit snacktivistfoods.com to learn more.Funding for Regenerative By Design Podcast was made possible by a grant/cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Marketing Service. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of the USDA. 

Hello there!In this episode of The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Corey Bryant, from Mississippi State University, specializing in soil fertility, discusses essential updates in phosphorus and potassium recommendations for crop production. Dr. Bryant shares insights on biological products in corn and cotton, soil fertility management, and other practices in crop science. Tune in on your preferred podcast platform."Our phosphorus and potassium recommendations are based on soil test levels, allowing us to provide targeted solutions for crop needs."Meet the guest: Dr. Corey Bryant, Assistant Professor at Mississippi State University, specializes in agronomy with a focus on soil fertility and crop science. Holding a Ph.D. from Mississippi State, an M.S. from Texas Tech, and a B.S. from the University of Arkansas-Monticello, he brings extensive knowledge and practical research experience to the field. What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(00:43) Introduction(01:16) Guest background(14:23) Crops in Mississippi(21:51) Updating recommendations(26:08) Nutrient management(31:18) Biologicals in corn(36:59) Closing thoughtsThe Crop Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by the innovative companies:- CNH Reman- KWS

New data from AgFunder News shows that ag biologics are used by just under half of U.S. farmers. Dr. Alex Cochran, CTO of DPH Biologicals, joins today to share his unique perspective on this growing market. We discuss: What are ag biologicals and their role in modern production agriculture. Biologicals as an important piece for growers as they manage a tough farm economy. The challenge of change when it comes to farming practices and the criticality of clearly describing ROI for growers. Movement in the biologicals market from big players like Corteva's acquisition of Symborg and Stoller. DPH's focus on differentiation and value to its growers + a deep dive into the conversations they're having at the farmgate right now. The biologicals market has come a long way, but is it still early innings? Alex talks how the technology has evolved what's on the horizon for DPH Biologicals.

New data from AgFunder News shows that ag biologics are used by just under half of U.S. farmers. Dr. Alex Cochran, CTO of DPH Biologicals, joins today to share his unique perspective on this growing market.  We discuss: What are ag biologicals and their role in modern production agriculture. Biologicals as an important piece for growers as they manage a tough farm economy. The challenge of change when it comes to farming practices and the criticality of clearly describing ROI for growers. Movement in the biologicals market from big players like Corteva's acquisition of Symborg and Stoller. DPH's focus on differentiation and value to its growers + a deep dive into the conversations they're having at the farmgate right now. The biologicals market has come a long way, but is it still early innings? Alex talks how the technology has evolved what's on the horizon for DPH Biologicals. 

In this episode of The Intentional Agribusiness Leader Podcast, host Mark Jewell welcomes Graig Whitehead, Director of Biologicals and New Tech at ADM Fertilizer. Graig shares invaluable insights on intentional leadership, building meaningful connections, and simplifying complex challenges in the agri-business space. From his boots-on-the-ground approach to developing team rapport during COVID to practical strategies for bridging the gap between the office and the field, this conversation is a must-listen for leaders aiming to deepen relationships and drive results.Key Takeaways:Intentional Leadership Defined:For Graig, intentional leadership is about simplifying complexity and prioritizing face-to-face, one-on-one conversations to truly understand people.COVID's Lessons on Connection:Transitioning to a new leadership role at ADM Fertilizer during COVID highlighted the importance of making extra efforts to connect with team members, such as follow-up calls to dig deeper into their experiences and build trust.The Value of Being Present:"Be present in conversations—whether with team members, managers, or family. Genuine attention fosters trust and builds stronger connections."Graig's three-week road trip to visit 17 ADM terminals exemplifies his belief in the power of face-to-face interaction to drive collaboration.Leadership in Action:Graig recounts a unique management strategy to resolve conflict between high performers by forcing collaboration—a testament to his adaptive and people-focused leadership style.Simplifying Challenges:Graig emphasizes the importance of breaking down overwhelming problems into manageable tasks, focusing on priorities, and addressing issues before they escalate.Communication as a Superpower:Regular, unscheduled check-ins foster stronger relationships and prevent employees from associating communication with criticism.Building relationships before you need them ensures a solid foundation for tackling future challenges.Notable Quotes:“We often overcomplicate things in leadership. Intentionality is about knowing your people, spending time with them, and speaking directly.” – Graig Whitehead“If everyone in the room is thinking the same thing, there's really only one person thinking.” – Graig Whitehead“The first solution to any problem is the cheapest. The longer it waits, the more expensive it gets.” – Graig WhiteheadLoved this episode? Share it with your network and let us know your biggest takeaway. Don't forget to subscribe for more actionable insights from top leaders in the agribusiness world.Stay Intentional. Lead with Impact.

*To see the machinery in action, watch the video HERE.In this Ag Spotlight podcast episode Chrissy Wozniak takes us to FIRA USA 2024 in Woodland, California, a premier event where agricultural technology meets innovation. Chrissy speaks with representatives from several forward-thinking companies showcasing advancements in AI, robotics, automation, and precision agriculture. Learn how these technologies are transforming farming practices and addressing challenges such as labor shortages, efficiency, and sustainability.Featured Topics and Innovations:Selective Harvesting with AIAn advanced robotic system designed to identify and harvest specific crops with precision.Highlights the potential for new technology to shift global agricultural narratives.Precision Spraying for Sustainable FarmingAI-powered sprayers that reduce manual labor and minimize the use of crop protection products.Discusses the rapid adoption of AI within the agricultural sector.Major Investments in Ag Tech InnovationInsights into the latest funding round supporting the growth of advanced robotics.Features a revolutionary tool for weed management and previews upcoming innovations.Automation for Agricultural MachineryExploring how technology is modernizing traditional farming equipment.Highlights solutions that improve efficiency and expand operational possibilities.Data-Driven Farming with Weather TechnologyAdvanced weather stations and sensors providing real-time data on rainfall, soil moisture, frost risk, and more.Integration of mobile technology and multilingual support for global accessibility.Why You Should Listen:This episode offers a deep dive into the cutting-edge solutions shaping the future of agriculture. Whether you're interested in AI-driven automation, precision tools, or data-powered decision-making, this episode provides valuable insights into the industry's latest advancements.Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. Learn more about FIRA USA at https://fira-usa.com#farm #farming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!Send us a textSubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

Farmers have become quite familiar with the 4Rs of nutrient management — when it comes to fertilizer application they need to consider the right source, rate, time and placement of nutrients. As more farmers use biologicals to help meet crop nutrient needs, Mosaic regional agronomist Braydn Lingbeck feels it’s important to take a 4R approach... Read More

In another special episode recorded on the grounds of World Dairy Expo, Scott is joined by Amy Hoy to discuss how biologicals are improving yield and nutrition in corn silage.

Biologicals hold great promise for improving crop production. The crop input segment is now occupied by almost 500 companies with almost 2,000 registered products that include claims to do everything from increasing root activity, soil microbes, and nutrient availability to building plant resiliency to abiotic stresses. It is a difficult market, however, for many farmers... Read More

Rotational grazing offers a variety of benefits to growers, their crops and livestock. From enhancing cattle productivity to improving forage stands, rotations provide us with substanial value.   Gain valuable insights into the benefits of rotational grazing and the technologies that have advanced its efficiency from Brianna Elliot, Techgonomist at Olds College. This episode of The Dirt will provide growers with helpful information about the reality of rotational grazing and its impact on sustainability based on research performed at Olds College.   To learn more about projects that the Technology Access Centre for Livestock Production is working on, visit www.oldscollege.ca.   Looking for the latest in crop nutrition research? Visit nutrien-ekonomics.com   Subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@NutrieneKonomics

Frank speaks in this episode with PBI-Gordon's West Research Scientist, Dr. Chrissie Segars. Dr. Segars received a BS at Clemson University, spent a short time as Grad Assistant at LSU “watching Les Miles eating grass”, then an MS and Ph.D. at Oklahoma State University under the tutelage of Dr. Dennis Martin. Short stints in academic life ultimately led to Dr. Segar's current role exploring Biological Control products as West Research Scientist for PBI-Gordon. This is a lively conversation with a passionate professional committed to educating, encouraging and doing some exploring for the next generation of turfgrass professionals.

Innovation, research and development has helped Winnipeg, MB-based, XiteBio rise to the top of the list of manufacturers of agricultural inoculants and biological products in North America. XiteBio's Western Canada regional sales manager Jared Joyal says the company is powered by its in-house innovation, research and development (IRD) team, which is “constantly working on the... Read More

The growing biologicals category is good for farmers, but not all rationale for it is warranted.

Biostimulants are a growing trend in agriculture, with their use rapidly increasing worldwide, but there are still some questions about how they play a role in today's agriculture.   Yara's Marcio Wally, Biological Senior Manager based in Canada, explains that biologicals are complementary to traditional agricultural inputs like fertilizers and pesticides, enhancing crop nutrition and resilience to stress. Biostimulants can improve nutrient availability and uptake, as well as enhance plant aspects to resist crop stress. They do not replace nutrients or agrochemicals but rather enhance crop management. The types of biostimulants include non-microbials (seaweed extracts, humic substances, amino acids) and microbial biostimulants (beneficial bacteria and fungi). The choice of biostimulant depends on the specific needs of the crop and the desired outcome.

On this episode, National FFA Organization hits the 1 million-member mark, Helena offers up biological option for getting crops across the finish line, a closer look at rising farmland values, and farmers are on the lookout for red crown rot in their soybean crop. Also, the Plant Based Product Council believes new ag bioscience legislation could prove to be a boon to the agriculture industry, the National Cattlemen's Beef Association is working to bring young producers into the fold, tips for mitigating outdoor allergies, and in our “Meat Monitor” segment, we learn about the U.S. Meat Export Federation's efforts to bring high-quality U.S. beef and pork to Sam's Club stores in China, and in “Bushels and Cents,” Ray Bohacz discusses starter troubles. The episode also features the latest single from Clarksville Creative Sound recording artist Mackynsie McKedy. Timestamps Intro and news: 0:00 Kristy Meyer, National FFA Organization: 6:07 Danny Munch, American Farm Bureau Federation: 7:46 Mike Powell, Helena Products Group: 9:29 Boris Camiletti, University of Illinois Extension: 12:46 James Glueck, Plant Based Products Council: 14:05 Colin Woodall, National Cattlemen's Beef Association: 17:20 Kenneth Mendez, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America: 19:41 Jihae Yang, U.S. Meat Export Federation: 21:51 Ray Bohacz, “Bushels and Cents”: 24:00 Mackynsie McKedy: 25:25

As our guest predicts in this episode, “biologicals and biostimulants aren't going away anytime soon.” Dairy Stream host Joanna Guza and Dr. Connor Sible, postdoctoral research associate with the crop physiology lab in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois, explains the basics with understanding biologicals and biostimulants. This episode is split into two parts with the first part covering biologicals and the second part covering biostimulants. We discuss the following topics below: Basic definition How it works What to do before adding a product Challenges How it fits into a farm input plan Other management practices to get the full economic benefit Special thanks to Pivot Bio for sponsoring this episode. About the guest: Dr. Connor Sible is a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Crop Physiology Lab in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois. Originally from northern Illinois, he received his degrees in Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois where his graduate studies focused on categorization and best management practices in the use of biologicals and biostimulants for row crops. His current research focuses on nutrient use efficiency of corn and soybean systems with specializations in residue management and nitrogen retention systems.  Resources: Department of Crop Sciences – Crop Physiology at the University of Illinois Connor's email: sible2@illinois.edu Getting the most out of biostimulants Role of Biologicals in Enhancing Nutrient Efficiency in Corn and Soybean This podcast is co-produced by the Dairy Business Association and Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, sister organizations that fight for effective dairy policy in Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.  Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

The Dairy Streamlet is a condensed version of a long Dairy Stream episode and covers the high-level points of the conversation. If this topic interest you, then listen to the full episode on Aug. 7. Dairy Stream host Joanna Guza and guest Dr. Connor Sible with the University of Illinois dive into the basics of understanding biologicals and biostimulants. We discuss the differences between them, prior management practices before implementation, challenges, additional practices needed to get the full economic benefit and the future of this technology. Special thanks to Pivot Bio for sponsoring this episode. About the guest: Dr. Connor Sible is a Postdoctoral Research Associate with the Crop Physiology Lab in the Department of Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois. Originally from northern Illinois, he received his degrees in Crop Sciences at the University of Illinois where his graduate studies focused on categorization and best management practices in the use of biologicals and biostimulants for row crops. His current research focuses on nutrient use efficiency of corn and soybean systems with specializations in residue management and nitrogen retention systems.  Resources: Department of Crop Sciences – Crop Physiology at the University of Illinois Connor's email: sible2@illinois.edu Getting the most out of biostimulants Role of Biologicals in Enhancing Nutrient Efficiency in Corn and Soybean This podcast is co-produced by the Dairy Business Association and Edge Dairy Farmer Cooperative, sister organizations that fight for effective dairy policy in Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.  Become a sponsor, share an idea or feedback by emailing podcast@dairyforward.com. 

Mike and the Kevins are Kick' N It this episode, providing a Nebraska August history session, including touching on Midwest football. Dan Uppena, Corteva Area Leader for Biologicals, joins the team to talk about Corteva Agriscience biologicals, including biostimulants and biocontrol.Dan and the group discuss ways Corteva is always working to bring farmers the latest options for achieving higher yields. ResourcesCorteva Biological Business: https://www.corteva.com/products-and-services/biologicals.html Corteva Biological Products: https://www.corteva.us/products-and-solutions/biologicals.html

Snake Oil or Viper Lipids? Dr. Connor Sible gives us an in-depth review of the biological space, including biostimulants, biological controls, and PGRs!      

On this episode, Biome Makers agronomist Jacob Parnell gives farmers some food for thought if they are considering the use of biologicals on their farms. University of Missouri's Ben Brown provides insights on the current U.S. corn balance sheet. American Farm Bureau Federation's Joe Gilson says 529 farm advocacy groups join together to urge Congress to pass a farm bill. Then, Hylio's Arthur Erickson discusses a proposed ban of Chinese drones, and Hunter Ihrman breaks down the National Cattlemen's Beef Association's lawsuit against the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Also, we learn about the U.S. Red Meat Export Federation's efforts to expand red meat exports to Canada, and in “Bushels and Cents,” Ray Bohacz offers some valuable information for pressure washer users. The episode also features the music of Paige King Johnson. Timestamps Intro and news: 0:00 Jacob Parnell, Biome Makers: 6:17 Ben Brown, University of Missouri: 10:38 Joe Gilson, American Farm Bureau Federation: 11:31 Arthur Erickson, Hylio: 13:26 Hunter Ihrman, National Cattlemen's Beef Association: 17:00 Courtney Heller, U.S. Meat Export Federation: 28:12 Ray Bohacz, “Bushels and Cents”: 31:06 Paige King Johnson: 32:34

This week, we're breaking down the freshest announcements from the agribusiness, agtech, and broader policy and tech worlds to share insights and ask “so what?” Sarah and Matthew are joined this week by Shane Thomas, author of Upstream Ag Insights.For more information and resources, visit our website. The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should read the information memorandum and seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe Information is correct, no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.

Biologicals – the broad category of ag input products derived from living organisms – have experienced significant growth in terms of adoption and investment. An analysis of Pitchbook data reveals there have been more than 6,000 deals in the global ag biotech market over the past decade. One of those companies driving growth is Biodyne USA. This week, we are joined by their National Director of Agronomy, Bodie Kitchel, to talk Biologicals vs. Biostimulants and what's driving growth in the space. For Bodie, everyone's “why” looks a little different when it comes to the adoption of biologicals and farm economics are certainly a piece of that. He gets into the farmer mindset around adopting innovation to leverage net farm income and Biodyne being an education company to help farmers learn where their dollar has the most value. Bodie also talks about needing economic impact right away but also balancing that belief with the value of economic impact in years two, three, four and five. With his experience in ag retail, how has Bodie seen innovation evolve? He talks about positioning, investment and companies being afraid of the unknown. Looking ahead, Bodie talks about that fear being outweighed by the urgency around innovating – and Biodyne USA doing it with speed.

Biologicals – the broad category of ag input products derived from living organisms – have experienced significant growth in terms of adoption and investment. An analysis of Pitchbook data reveals there have been more than 6,000 deals in the global ag biotech market over the past decade. One of those companies driving growth is Biodyne USA. This week, we are joined by their National Director of Agronomy, Bodie Kitchel, to talk Biologicals vs. Biostimulants and what's driving growth in the space. For Bodie, everyone's “why” looks a little different when it comes to the adoption of biologicals and farm economics are certainly a piece of that. He gets into the farmer mindset around adopting innovation to leverage net farm income and Biodyne being an education company to help farmers learn where their dollar has the most value. Bodie also talks about needing economic impact right away but also balancing that belief with the value of economic impact in years two, three, four and five. With his experience in ag retail, how has Bodie seen innovation evolve? He talks about positioning, investment and companies being afraid of the unknown. Looking ahead, Bodie talks about that fear being outweighed by the urgency around innovating – and Biodyne USA doing it with speed. 

For better or worse, the biologicals space is still in the process of repairing a reputation that was marred by years of over-promising and under-delivering. Yet big advances have been made in recent years, helping improve agricultural productivity while reducing the industry's dependence on chemical pesticides and fertilizers. But discerning between new wave innovation and their more snake-oily predecessors isn't always easy– so we wanted to sit down with an expert who's been doing this work for decades. (Note: if you're new to learning about biologicals, check out “Biologicals: snake oil or science, and how do we know?” before you dive into today's episode for important background.) This week, our guest is Joel Lipsitch, Founder at Blair Road Consulting and an expert in biological products and businesses. Joel guides through his thinking on topics including:The red and green flags he looks for when evaluating biological companies, from the science to pricing modelsHow to expect companies to bridge the gap between the lab and the field, and what it looks like when they succeedThe biological go-to-market strategies that have proven the most successful, and where future business model opportunity is likely emergingUseful Links:Biologicals: snake oil or science, and how do we know?The challenges & opportunities for biologicals in agBiologicals and chemistry: finding ways to commercialize the scienceInvesting Beyond the Farmgate with Ben Barlow, New Edge MicrobialsThe Tricky Business of Scaling Soil Tech - Adam Litle, CEO, Sound AgricultureGenerics, Biologicals, and the Volatile Farm Inputs Market with Sam Taylor, RabobankThe Battle for the Future of Crop ProtectionFor more information and resources, visit our website.The information in this post is not investment advice or a recommendation to invest. It is general information only and does not take into account your investment objectives, financial situation or needs. Before making an investment decision you should read the information memorandum and seek financial advice from a professional financial adviser. Whilst we believe Information is correct, no warranty of accuracy, reliability or completeness.

Headstorm: https://headstorm.com/AGPILOT: https://headstorm.com/agpilot/ELO Life: https://elolife.com/ Pairwise: https://www.pairwise.com/home New Leaf Symbiotics: https://www.newleafsym.com/ Harpe Bio: https://harpebio.com/"Biologicals are ‘economically unfeasible' According to Report: The Shortcomings and Opportunities" by Upstream Ag Insights: https://www.upstream.ag/p/biologicals-are-economically-unfeasibleI considered a title for this episode that was something like “The Biological Revolution Coming to Agriculture”. I decided against it, and not just because it's over-dramatic and the word ‘revolution' is tossed around way too much, but because it would give many listeners the wrong idea of what this episode is about. This is not an episode about biologicals, which has become a catch-all term for things like biostimulants, biopesticides, biofungicides, and bioherbicides. I'm not a fan of trying to categorize things as “biologicals” for the following reasons: The term “biological” doesn't tell a farmer customer anything about what the product will do for them. Is it effective? Is it profitable? What value does it have? In fact, in some cases calling it a “biological” is used to almost justify that it's not as effective. Which brings me to my second point. The term “biological” comes with a lot of baggage. Decades of new products emerging with promises that at best don't work in all cases, and at worst appear to be snake oil. Some of the benefits of a biological don't have incentives in place to actually return value to farmers. Meaning, if for example, a biological can improve quality or boost the marketing story of a commodity or reduce emissions, how will the farmer see the money back from their investment? There are products that aren't purely a biological or a synthetic chemistry, but deliver great outcomes for farmers. They get lumped in at times with biologicals because they have nowhere else to go. We've heard this on this show with Sound Agriculture's SOURCE that uses chemistry to improve the performance of natural microbes, or Vestaron who has peptide products for pest control, and today will add a natural chemistry company to that list in Harpe Bio, which uses formulations from plant extracts for a suite of herbicides. Lastly, the entire industry is looking for ways to reduce reliance on synthetic chemistry whether that's due to resistance, regulation, or other factors. So being a “biological” is just becoming less and less of a differentiator. With all of that said I do believe that advancements in biotechnology will have the single biggest impact of any technology on the future of agriculture. And that's what I want to talk about here in this episode and highlight four companies that are doing some fascinating work driven by biology, that I had the chance to sit down with at World Agri-Tech this year. So that intro might sound like I'm both criticizing biologicals and calling them the future of agriculture. Let me clarify: my point is that we need to stop lumping everything into this biologicals category and making judgments about a vague category and instead look at how companies and products can stand on their own merits and

In this week's North American Ag Spotlight Chrissy Wozniak talks with Kevin Barley, President of The Florida Bamboo Growers Association. We dive into the lesser-known but deeply rooted agricultural landscape of Florida with a focus on the citrus industry and the emerging bamboo market. Our guest today has a heritage deeply embedded in the Florida citrus industry, tracing back to 1900 when his great grandfather planted their first citrus grove. From a stint on the NYC trading floor during college to leading his father's commodity trading business, he's now at the forefront of the bamboo farming industry as the President of Greenfield Bamboo Investments. Join us as we explore the rich history, opportunities, and challenges of Florida agriculture with Kevin Barley. Tune in for an insightful conversation you won't want to miss!Learn more about The Florida Bamboo Growers Association at https://fbgabamboo.com/Learn more about Greenfield Bamboo Investments at https://www.greenfieldbamboo.net/#bamboo #bamboofarming #agricultureNorth American Ag is devoted to highlighting the people & companies in agriculture who impact our industry and help feed the world. Subscribe at https://northamericanag.comThis episode is sponsored by Fastline - A LEADER IN FARM EQUIPMENT FOR SALEVisit https://agr.fyi/fastlineWant to hear the stories of the ag brands you love and the ag brands you love to hate? Hear them at https://whatcolorisyourtractor.comDon't just thank a farmer, pray for one too!Join us this February 14-17 at the National Farm Machinery Show, tell us why you love your tractor color and have a chance to be featured on an upcoming episode of What Color is Your Tractor!Learn More at https://fastline.com! The New York Farm Show is the leading farm show in the Northeast since 1985. The show hosts more than 400 exhibitors displaying the latest in farm equipment, tractors, combines and farm implements; seed and crop protection products; farm supplies and services, dairy and beef production, woodlot and related industry supplies.Learn more at https://newyorkfarmshow.com FASTLINE AUCTIONSAuctions is the only auction platform with over 40 years of data to target more farmers than any other. We also make it super simple for our customers – our auctions are embedded directly into Fastline.com's current website listings, so there's no need for buyers to visit a separate website. Learn more at Fastline.com!Subscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com