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Cover crops are often discussed in terms of soil health — preventing erosion, capturing nutrients and building soil quality. But on a dairy farm, there's another question worth asking: Can that cover crop also help feed the cows?Growing a crop in a window when a field might otherwise sit empty can provide an opportunity to produce additional forage while also protecting the soil.But making that work takes some planning. The crop you choose, when you plant it, when you harvest it, and how you manage it afterward can all affect its value as feed.In this episode, we explore how cover crops can fit into a dairy cropping system, not just as a soil-management tool, but potentially as another source of useful forage.
Coffee Time Wednesday with Kent and Riley. We dig into the National Cover Crop Survey: who's planting covers, what it costs, why so many farmers quit after one year, and whether Iowa can pay its way to cleaner water. Plus a combine door that tried to end harvest. hokseynativeseeds.com (for all your native seed, backyard prairie, hunting mixes, CRP mixes, native pasture mixes, and more) iowacovercrop.com (for all your cover crop mixes, waterway mixes, forage mixes, small grains, and more) MckayInsAgency.com (for all your financial planning and insurance needs)
Welcome to episode 496 of Growers Daily! Today we are dialing in our cover crop mixes to our soil health needs. And getting ground ready on the fly (but on the healthy, too). We are a Non-Profit!
Nick Jorgenson talks about their 7 year journey of using virtual fence and the value it delivers for grazing pasture and crop ground.
Can improving soil biology reduce synthetic inputs while maintaining yields—and improve farm profitability at the same time?In this episode of Soil Sisters, we sit down with Howard Vlieger at the Southern Family Farmers and Food Systems Conference to explore what happens when farmers work with biology instead of relying solely on conventional inputs. Howard is a regenerative farmer, researcher, and crop and livestock nutrition adviser who identifies as a student of the soil.Howard shares field experiences with Biomentum, a biological product he is helping expand with longtime mentor, Verlyn Sneller. Howard recounts results ranging from reduced nitrogen use in corn to managing rootworm without insecticide by rebuilding soil biology. Beyond row crops, Howard discusses early observations from vineyards, pasture and cattle nutrition, manure and lagoon management, septic and pond applications, odor and fly reduction, and efforts to address glyphosate residues.We explore water infiltration and flooding, why soil testing matters, and how tools such as the Haney Test and soil genomics can help farmers develop practical management plans based on their specific fields. Listen to the full discussion to hear Howard's examples, application strategies, and approach to connecting soil health with practical farm economics.Meet Our Guest:Howard Vlieger is a regenerative farmer, researcher, and crop and livestock nutrition adviser who identifies as a student of the soil. Howard has dedicated decades of his life to research and experimentation on the effects of GMO crops and glyphosate on livestock and ecosystem health. He and his family steward Vlieger Family Farm near Maurice, IA. They raise and sell natural meat (beef, pork, lamb, poultry, eggs and milk). Howard is also instrumental in educating lawmakers and the agricultural community on soil health and gut health through his efforts with scientists and doctors such as Dr. Michelle Perro, Dr. Don Huber, Dr. John Fagan, and has worked with RFK, Jr. and the MAHA movement. Howard is so serious about clean food that he travels with a mini fridge in his truck stocked with protein from his farm and snacks he trusts… and shares with the Soil Sisters.Learn More About Biomentum and ABC Soil Healthy by Terra Transitional SolutionsTime Stamps:00:00 Welcome to Soil Sisters00:17 Meet Howard Vlieger01:35 The Biomentum Origin Story04:41 Iowa Policy Momentum07:53 Cut Inputs, Keep Yield09:52 Field Success Stories12:35 Vineyard Trial Results14:22 From Soil Health to Gut Health18:10 Manure, Septic & Water Applications25:38 Flooding & Infiltration Math28:50 Lawn Care & Soil Lessons30:55 Biomentum Application Plan38:06 Seed Treatment: How-To40:05 In-Furrow Biology Application Options41:40 Seed Treatment Trials42:27 Cover Crop Reality Check45:06 Soil Testing & Genomics: Creating a Plan49:01 Building a Soil Health Recipe54:08 Scaling Biomentum Validation59:22 What Carbon Really Means01:02:26 ROI & Input Savings01:05:39 Hogs & Show Wrap
On this episode of the Alabama Crops Report, the team discusses late-season cotton conditions across Alabama—including cotton jassid activity, harvest preparation, defoliation decisions, and planning for cover crops after harvest.....
Looking for a cool-season cover crop to help suppress weeds and improve the soil in an empty bed over the winter? Wondering if crimson clover is right for you and, if so, when and how to sow and extinguish it? Today, Lisa and Layne discuss the ins and outs of cover cropping with crimson clover. They cover what cover crop is and why it is used, the benefits of cover cropping with crimson clover, planting times and sowing tips, when and how to extinguish the plants, and more. Listen to the podcast and discover how to incorporate beautiful and beneficial crimson clover as a cover crop in your field or garden!The video version of Lisa and Layne's conversation will be posted to The Gardener's Workshop's YouTube channel, where all “Seed Talk” episodes are organized into a playlist. In addition, auto-generated transcripts are available for viewing on YouTube. If there is a question or topic you would like to hear discussed on a future episode of “Seed Talk”, please fill out the form linked below. We would love to hear your suggestions!Mentions:"Seed Talk" YouTube PlaylistOnline Course: Cool Flowers from Seed to HarvestOnline Course: Warm Flowers from Seed to HarvestShop: Cover Crop Seeds, Silage TarpEpisode 87 - Cover Crop Basics"Seed Talk" Topic Suggestion FormTGW YouTube ChannelTGW iPhone App (iOS App Store)TGW Android App (Google Play)Sign up to receive our weekly Farm News!The "Seed Talk with Lisa & Layne" podcast is produced by The Gardener's Workshop and co-hosted by Lisa Mason Ziegler and Layne Angelo. Lisa is the founder and owner of The Gardener's Workshop, where Layne works as Seed Manager. Lisa is the award-winning author of Vegetables Love Flowers and Cool Flowers and the publisher of Flower Farming School Online, Farmer-Florist School Online, and Florist School Online. Watch Lisa's Story and connect with her on social media. Layne is an avid gardener, seed starter, and engineer who loves learning and applying her technical knowledge to all areas of life, including gardening and growing flowers. Thanks for joining us!
The University of Missouri's biannual survey and factors influencing farmers' cover-cropping choices explained.Cattle and calves on feed were 1% above the previous year.
Welcome to episode 491 of Growers Daily! Today we are going to discuss a few things to consider before you just start throwing cover crops seed down for the winter AND we take a question about starting a regenerative farming organization in this world. We are a Non-Profit!
Fins, Fur and Feathers: Programs for Landowners Cover Crop Reactions to Past Herbicide Use Safety on the Dairy Farm 00:01:05 – Fins, Fur and Feathers: Programs for Landowners: Starting today's show is part of a Fins, Fur and Feathers podcast episode with Drew Ricketts and Joe Gerken as they talk about what programs are available for landowners to use to benefit the land and wildlife. Fins, Fur and Feathers wildlife.k-state.edu 00:12:05 – Cover Crop Reactions to Past Herbicide Use: Sarah Ganske, K-State weed specialist, continues the show discussing cover crop options growers have available. She says what they need to pay special attention to, especially when it comes to herbicides. Cover Crop Response to Herbicides Conduct Soil Bioassays to Determine Herbicide Carryover Potential Cereal Rye Control in Wheat 00:23:05 – Safety on the Dairy Farm: K-State dairy specialist, Mike Brouk, wraps up the show explaining four ways producers can assess and improve safety on the dairy farm as September is National Farm Safety and Health Month. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu. Agriculture Today is a daily program featuring Kansas State University agricultural specialists and other experts examining ag issues facing Kansas and the nation. It is hosted by Shelby Varner and distributed to radio stations throughout Kansas and as a daily podcast. K‑State Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit Extension.ksu.edu. K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
This week, Shaye Wanner interviews Shane Maddock of Mattock Ranches about holistic/regenerative management, shaped by his father's practices since 1992. Shane describes their North Dakota commercial cow-calf operation with backgrounding, yearlings, heifer development, and some row crops and small grains near Maddock. He explains rebuilding degraded soils by reducing reliance on outside inputs through frequent moves, adequate rest and full grass recovery, and adaptive grazing based on pasture conditions. Shane shares unconventional infrastructure like permanent fencing and water tanks placed in the middle of cropland to enable winter grazing, bale grazing, and flexible feeding. After initially seeding diverse cover crops, he shifted to perennials and now plans a sod-based crop rotation with renewed cover cropping. He is composting feedlot manure and experimenting with compost tea to boost soil biology. Key challenges include labor, infrastructure setup, and profitability, and he urges ranchers to question tradition and find mentors. Learn more about Performance Livestock Analytics here: https://bit.ly/47PxY3W Learn more about Ambrook here: ambrook.com/casualcattle Learn more about Elanco here: https://farmanimal.elanco.com/us/beef Learn more about Corteva here: RangeAndPasture.com/CattleConversations 00:47 Meet Shane Maddock 01:22 Why Regenerative Matters 02:28 Operation Overview 04:10 Growing Up Holistic 05:21 Grazing Principles Basics 06:25 Cover Crops to Perennials 08:02 Neighbors Think You're Crazy 09:05 Adaptive Grazing Decisions 10:30 Rest and Recovery Cues 11:07 Water Tanks in Cropland 13:58 Winter Grazing Setup 15:04 Virtual Fencing Curiosity 16:18 Compost and Tea Trials 19:00 Learning Resources and Soil 21:06 Challenges and Profitability
Can strip till and cover crops work better together? Chris Perkins shares what changed his mind and what he's seeing in his soils. In this episode of Around the Farm, Tom and Andy sit down with Chris Perkins, owner of Banded Ag, at the National Strip-Tillage Conference Pre-Conference Workshop hosted by ForGround by Bayer. Chris shares his journey with strip till and cover crops, why his perspective on regenerative agriculture has changed, and how ForGround is helping support practices already happening on his farm. They also discuss soil health, conservation programs, using AI to make farm management decisions, and the importance of growers sharing their own stories. Plus, Chris explains what has surprised him most after combining strip till and cover crops on his southern Indiana operation.
Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce provides examples of how growers utilize cover crops in their operation. USDA Radio NewslineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discuss with Lake Panorama Project Manager Lane Rumelhart.
This week, Nathan starts off talking about how to rejuvenate your summer container gardens and get them looking good for the upcoming cool season. Then, he alerts you about a few pests you might be seeing in your landscape this time of year and talks about whether to be concerned about them or not. Lastly, Nathan goes to the vegetable garden to reveal one of the most important things you could do for your spring veggies right now: grow cover crops.
Digital Ag Hub, Beef Quality Assurance, Field and Pasture Update, Grain Markets, Weather, Cover Crops
Dr. Robert Myers discusses recent survey findings regarding drone usage in cover crop seeding. He highlights trends and technology being used in cover crops.
Every empty bed in your garden is either growing something for you or growing weeds and losing topsoil. Cover crops are how you make sure it's the first one. In this episode, we get into why cover crops work in both in-ground beds and raised planters, which ones perform best when you sow them in fall, and which ones are worth a spot in your rotation come spring. We'll look at nitrogen-fixing legumes like crimson clover and hairy vetch, soil-building grasses like winter rye and oats, and fast-growing summer options like buckwheat that can turn a bare bed around in a matter of weeks. Then we'll cover how to actually terminate a cover crop, whether that's mowing, crimping, tarping, or letting winter do the work for you, so it feeds your soil instead of becoming a weed problem of its own. Let's dig in! References and Resources: Get your sustainably grown coffee and support the show at LarrysCoffee.com/JustGrow! University of Maryland Extension — Cover Crops For Gardens: umd.edu/resource/cover-crops-gardens University of Maryland Extension — Offing Cover Crops for Weed Suppression: Featuring the Roller Crimper and Other Mechanical Contraptions: umd.edu/resource/offing-cover-crops-weed-suppression University of New Hampshire Extension — Cover Cropping for the Home Garden [fact sheet]: unh.edu/resource/cover-cropping-home-garden-fact-sheet University of Missouri Integrated Pest Management, Missouri Environment & Garden — Cover Crops Improve Garden Soil: missouri.edu/meg/2014/9/Cover-Crops-Improve-Garden-Soil Oregon State University Extension — Buckwheat Makes a Good Summer Cover Crop for Gardens: oregonstate.edu/news/buckwheat-makes-good-summer-cover-crop-gardens Cornell Cooperative Extension Vegetable Program, Cover Crop Guide for NY Growers — Buckwheat as a Summer Cover Crop for Weed Suppression: org/blog/buckwheat-as-a-summer-cover-crop-for-weed-suppression UF/IFAS Extension Duval County — Cover Crop Termination: What Do I Do When It's Over?: ifas.ufl.edu/duvalco/2025/09/15/cover-crop-termination-what-do-i-do-when-its-over Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plants Products — Hairy Vetch: purdue.edu/newcrop/afcm/vetch.html USDA Agricultural Research Service — Crimson Clover Cover Crop Fact Sheet (PDF): usda.gov/ARSUserFiles/60100500/FactSheets/FS04e.pdf Just Grow Something: https://justgrowsomething.com Gardening Courses: https://justgrowsomething.com/courses Just Grow Something Merch and Downloads: https://justgrowsomething.com/shop Just Grow Something Gardening Friends Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/18YgHveF5P/ Check out how you can become a patron on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/JustGrowSomething Feed my coffee habit: https://buymeacoffee.com/justgrowsomething Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/justgrowsomething Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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Does tillage make money? The answer isn't simply yes or no. The KUHN team explains why the industry is moving away from “recreational tillage” toward more calculated, specialized passes designed to solve specific problems. From managing heavy residue and correcting compaction to creating a seedbed, the goal is to understand what the field needs and then determine whether the fuel, labor, equipment, and time required can generate a return.The conversation also challenges the idea that broadcast fertilizer is simply “slinging it.” Garrick explains how modern precision spreaders control drop points, spread patterns, application rates, section control, and border spreading. KUHN's EMC system measures torque on the spinner discs every second and can respond to changing material flow, clogs, and over- or under-application to maintain the target rate. Then the guys get into strip-till and KUHN's new 24-row 1210 Gladiator XL. Beyond reducing passes, strip-till can combine targeted tillage with concentrated fertilizer placement in the root zone. KUHN discusses trials where an 8- to 10-bushel yield gain across enough acres could potentially create a roughly two-year equipment payback, while more efficient nutrient placement may offer opportunities to rethink fertilizer rates. Ultimately, this episode isn't about convincing every farmer to till—or not to till. It's about knowing why you're making the pass. Soil type, compaction, residue, fertility, pH, equipment, labor, timeliness, and management style all matter. The right system is the one that solves a problem on your farm and can justify its cost. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
With harvest underway, California farmers are again struggling to find buyers for their winegrapes, and the 2026 National Cover Crop Report indicates growing interest in cover crops.
Nutrient Management Level 2 is part of the award-winning Greenhouse Online Training program offered by the University of Florida IFAS Extension, and the 2026 National Cover Crop Report indicates growing interest in cover crops.
Not sure what to cover your raised bed soil with this winter? Cover crops can build soil, suppress weeds, and even provide living mulch. In this episode, I'll help you choose a cover crop and get started without overcomplicating it. Free Download: Raised Bed Soil Options Learn practical, affordable options for building and improving healthy raised bed soil. https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil Cover crops aren't just for large, in-ground gardens. I've been experimenting with them in my raised beds, and I've found several benefits beyond simply adding organic matter. I'll share what happened when I grew mustard and crimson clover, how winter-kill and overwintering cover crops differ, and what you need to think about before choosing one for your garden. Key Takeaways Choose cover crops by purpose. Decide if you want winter-kill. Plan around spring planting space. Try crimson clover as living mulch. Start with just one bed. Chapters 00:00 – Why consider cover crops 02:20 – Benefits beyond organic matter 06:57 – Living mulch and pollinators 09:02 – Choose crops by purpose 11:21 – Plan around spring planting 13:41 – Raised bed winter differences 16:00 – What happened with mustard 18:14 – Benefits of winter-kill crops 20:38 – Growing crimson clover strategically 22:55 – Terminating clover for mulch 24:41 – What if cover crops reseed? 27:00 – Beginner-friendly winter-kill options 29:19 – Overwintering cover crop options 31:39 – Start small with cover crops Resource Links Cover Crops Start to Finish: https://youtu.be/7x3H6_dSH1g?si=sJx876ZTOBCOQrjV Beginner's Guide to Cover Crops: https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/263-beginners-guide-to-fall-cover-crops Fall Cover Crops with True Leaf Market: https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/198-fall-cover-crops-with-true-leaf-market Cover Crops for Different Soil Types: https://journeywithjill.libsyn.com/helen-atthowe-fall-cover-crops-for-different-soil-types Raised Bed Soil Options: https://journeywithjill.net/raised-bed-soil Friday Emails: https://journeywithjill.net/gardensignup YouTube: Journey with Jill on YouTube Instagram: The Beginner's Garden on Instagram Podcast Archive: The Beginner's Garden Podcast Recommended Brands & Products: https://journeywithjill.net/recommended-brands-and-products/ Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/thebeginnersgarden Complete Garden Planner: Ready for a simple system to plan and track your garden? My Complete Garden Planner makes it easy. https://shop.journeywithjill.net/ Disclaimer Gardening advice shared in this podcast is based on my own experience in Zone 8a (Arkansas) and from the feedback I receive from others in different gardening contexts. Your results may differ depending on your location, climate, and growing conditions. Always check your local extension service or trusted resources for region-specific guidance. Some links mentioned may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Dr. Eric Scherder of Corteva Agriscience returns to Farm4Profit to look back at the 2026 growing season and help farmers start building their 2027 agronomy plan. The conversation begins with cover crops and why simply getting seed on the ground isn't enough. From erosion and nitrate management to weed suppression and soil health, Eric explains why farmers need to know their objective, establish a good stand, and have a termination strategy before spring arrives.The discussion moves into weed management and the importance of starting clean, using multiple modes of action, and layering residuals—especially in early-planted soybeans. Eric challenges farmers to think beyond a one-size-fits-all herbicide program and use the entire agronomic toolbox, including cover crops, no-till, row spacing, crop rotation, residual herbicides, and emerging technologies like See & Spray. With nitrogen representing one of the largest crop investments, the guys also discuss fall versus spring application, nitrogen loss, and why stabilization matters beyond the fall application window. Eric explains the science behind N-Serve and Instinct Next Gen, why keeping nitrogen in the ammonium form can help protect it from loss, and how farmers can match nitrogen practices to the logistics and realities of their individual operations. Ultimately, the message is simple: don't treat every field the same. Use what you learned in 2026, test new ideas where they make sense, work with trusted local advisors, and build a 2027 plan around the specific challenges and opportunities on your farm. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
The 2026 National Cover Crop Report indicates growing interest in cover crops among farmers. The survey found cover crop users planted an average of nearly 398 acres in 2026 and expect to exceed 400 acres next year. NAFB News ServiceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On this special road edition of Conservation Ag Update, brought to you by Yetter Farm Equipment, the No-Till Farmer editorial team shares their top conservation ag takeaways and observations at the 2026 Farm Progress Show in Boone, Iowa.
Cattle Prices and News in the Market Cover Crop Field Days Checking in on Water Quality 00:01:05 – Cattle Prices and News in the Market: Beginning the show is Elliott Dennis, University of Missouri-Columbia livestock economist, as he explains the Cattle on Feed report, lean trimmings, an announcement from the President and cattle entering the U.S. from Mexico. edcg6@missouri.edu APHIS Meetings 00:12:05 – Cover Crop Field Days: Logan Simon, Augustine Obour and Stacie Minson with K-State, keep the show rolling as they highlight the two upcoming Cover Crop Field Days and what learning opportunities will be present. Cover Crop Field Days Stacie - 785-769-3297 or sedgett@ksu.edu 00:23:05 – Checking in on Water Quality: K-State fisheries and aquatics Extension specialist, Joe Gerken, ends today's show as he discusses why it is valuable to check farm pond's water quality for livestock. Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu. Agriculture Today is a daily program featuring Kansas State University agricultural specialists and other experts examining ag issues facing Kansas and the nation. It is hosted by Shelby Varner and distributed to radio stations throughout Kansas and as a daily podcast. K‑State Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan. For more information, visit Extension.ksu.edu. K-State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Winter may still feel a long way off, but the first frost will arrive before we know it! In this episode of Hort Culture, Alexis, Jessica, and Brett discuss preparing gardens, houseplants, equipment, and supplies for the coming cold weather. From bringing houseplants indoors and protecting tender crops to storing bulbs and tubers, managing hoses and irrigation equipment, and organizing frost-protection supplies, the team shares practical tips to help gardeners get ahead. As always, the conversation combines useful horticulture advice with plenty of stories and humor, reminding us that a little preparation now can prevent a lot of cold-weather panic later.Prepare Garden Tools and Equipment for WinterWinterizing Your Garden ToolsTidying Up Your Garden in WinterQuestions/Comments/Feedback/Suggestions for Topics: hortculturepodcast@gmail.comCheck us out on Instagram!
Carbon credits. Regenerative agriculture. CI scores. 45Z. If you've been hearing these terms but still aren't sure what they actually mean for your farm, this episode is for you. Tanner, Corey, and Dave sit down with Kelly Garrett of XtremeAg and Mike Busing of Windy Ridge Ag to unpack one of the most talked-about opportunities facing corn growers today: 45Z. The conversation begins by looking back at the rise and fall of carbon markets. Mike shares his experience helping build one of the country's largest carbon programs through Regenerative Roots, while Kelly explains why the lack of standardized rules ultimately slowed the market's momentum. Together, they discuss why voluntary carbon programs struggled, how international demand still exists, and what lessons were learned from the "Wild West" days of carbon credits. From there, the discussion shifts to 45Z—a federal clean fuel production tax credit that could fundamentally change how ethanol plants value grain. Kelly and Mike explain how carbon intensity (CI) scores work, why low-CI corn could become increasingly valuable, and how competition between ethanol plants may create new revenue opportunities for farmers. They also discuss why the Treasury Department's final guidance is so critical and how regional differences could determine who benefits the most. The group also explores larger questions surrounding government incentives, environmental policy, and whether 45Z is simply another subsidy or a meaningful shift toward rewarding more efficient farming practices. Along the way, they debate whether the current program represents a "carrot" that encourages voluntary change—or whether future regulations could eventually become the "stick" if agriculture doesn't continue improving on its own. Whether you're skeptical, optimistic, or simply trying to understand what everyone is talking about, this episode delivers one of the most practical conversations we've had on the future of carbon markets and the role 45Z could play in improving farm profitability. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Growing crops like rye and clover between harvests gives the soil better defenses against extreme weather. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
Who's Jason?Jason Hansen spent 14 years with the NRCS watching conservation rules bend for bigger, better-connected operators, and running cost-share programs structurally set up to fail the farmers they were meant to help. In 2018, he left USDA and founded Yield Unlimited. What is Yield Unlimited?Yield Unlimited is Jason Hansen's nonprofit that pays farmers directly, long-term, to run five core conservation practices - crop rotation, no-till/strip-till, cover crops, nutrient management, and (for a higher payout) prescribed grazing.The model:- Farmers apply for a land rental contract (30-second application, Jason's goal)- Up to $2,000/acre over 10-30 years, 50% paid upfront- Funded by donations, not federal money - pitch is $5/person/month covers the country- Treasury notes lock in and grow the later payouts (years 10 and 20)Why it matters: USDA cost-share caps at 5 years, right when farmers hit the yield dip during transition.Yield Unlimited's long-term contracts are built to carry them through this period. __________________________________________________________________________Key Topics14 years inside the NRCS, wetlands to DC headquartersUneven enforcement of drainage rules for connected operatorsWhy USDA's 5-year contracts fail farmers mid-transitionThe 2018 moment that led to founding Yield UnlimitedThe model: up to $2,000/acre, 10-30 year contractsFunding it outside the federal systemTimestamps 00:00 — Intro02:15 — Jason's background08:40 — Certifying wetlands in ND15:20 — Drainage enforcement issues24:00 — Utah, then district conservationist31:10 — The moment with his daughter36:30 — Why the RCPP grant failed44:15 — Hawaii, then DC headquarters50:00 — Leaving USDA, founding Yield Unlimited55:30 — How the model works1:01:00 — Funding conservation nationwide1:07:00 — Where to follow alongConnect with JasonWebsiteXLinkedin
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The best cover crop depends on your soil health goals, nutrient needs, and cropping system. In this Successful Farming Saturday Short, natural resource specialist and consultant Jean Eells explains the differences between grasses, brassicas, and legumes, and how to choose the right cover crop species for your operation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Just like many other states, the mantra in Tennessee cotton country was that no-till wouldn't work. But through many fields days and experiments at the Milan Ag Experiment Station and Milan No-Till Field Day, Univ. of Tennessee Agronomist John Bradley proved them wrong.
In this episode, entomologist and agroecologist Dr. Jacob Pecenka talks about why cover crops are the best mulch. Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights! Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower: Instagram Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Carrot Cashflow Farm Small Farm Smart Farm Small Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast The Urban Farmer Podcast The Rookie Farmer Podcast In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books: Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
This podcast is made possible by our listeners and viewers. If this show has brought you value, you can support it by becoming a member of The Way Forward, our platform designed to help you find the health and freedom community (people, practitioners, schools, farms, and more) near you. Your membership directly supports the podcast and the work we do.Ready to take the next step toward greater self-sufficiency? Explore Freedom Farmers, a global community helping people grow their own food, build resilient businesses, and create a life closer to the land.
08 18 26 Cover Crops by Ag PhD
Cover crops can protect and improve garden soil during the time of year when our gardens are resting. In this episode, Erin talks with Twinflower Wilkie, a WSU Extension Master Gardener in Ferry County, about how cover crops help retain moisture, protect soil from erosion, cycle nutrients, and build healthier soil. Twinflower also shares why cover crops can benefit pollinators and other beneficial wildlife, and why allowing your garden to go a little wild can be good for the garden and the creatures that depend on it. They discuss choosing and using cover crops in the home garden and simple ways gardeners can get started. For gardeners in Washington's dry eastern climate and beyond, cover crops offer a practical way to keep soil protected and productive while creating a more welcoming garden for wildlife. Resources mentioned in this episode, along with a full transcript, can be found on our website.
Welcome to episode 466 of Growers Daily! We cover: Today we are talking about cover crops you can eat (but still get all those good cover crop things out of it) and we also get a mailbag question about cereal rye vs rye grass as a cover crop. A very cover croppy day indeed. We are a Non-Profit!
In this episode of Farm4Profit, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig returns to the studio for a conversation that covers nearly every major issue impacting producers today. Mike begins by sharing how he balances his role as Secretary of Agriculture with remaining involved in his family's fourth-generation northwest Iowa farm. He discusses growing up around corn, soybeans, and hogs, how the family operation has evolved, and why having one foot in production agriculture continues to shape the way he approaches his job. The conversation quickly turns to one of agriculture's biggest uncontrollable variables: weather. Iowa farmers have dealt with derechos, excessive rainfall, flooding, drought, and increasingly severe weather events. Mike explains why risk management, infrastructure, crop resilience, and better monitoring tools are becoming even more important as producers try to manage events they simply cannot control. The crew also talks openly about the mental and financial pressure farmers are feeling. Tight margins, extreme weather, policy uncertainty, and growing public criticism of agriculture are all piling up at the same time. Mike says he has noticed increasing frustration among producers who feel they are being blamed for problems while already operating under significant financial stress. Water quality becomes a major part of the discussion. Mike breaks down Iowa's nutrient reduction efforts, progress on phosphorus, ongoing nitrate challenges, and the state's new “Farm to Faucet” approach. That effort includes increased nitrate treatment capacity, expanded water monitoring, conservation funding, cover crop incentives, streamside buffers, and more than $50 million targeted toward conservation practices in the Greater Des Moines Watershed over the next 12 years. The group also tackles one of Iowa's most controversial conversations: whether agriculture is being unfairly blamed for cancer rates in the state. Mike stresses that the issue is complex and should be driven by research rather than politics. He points to known risk factors including radon, smoking, alcohol use, obesity, and sun exposure while also supporting continued research into environmental and genetic factors. From there, the episode moves into biofuels and new revenue opportunities. Mike discusses Iowa's growing use of E15, the economic benefits ethanol provides consumers, the potential of 45Z, and why future clean-fuel programs could create additional revenue streams for farmers if measurement and reporting requirements can be made practical. One of the biggest opportunities Mike sees for Iowa is cattle. With the U.S. cow herd at historically low levels, Mike believes Iowa has room to grow beef production—especially by identifying row crop acres that are underperforming because of slope, erosion, wetness, or poor soil productivity and converting those acres into pasture or forage. He explains how the state's cattle and conservation programs are already helping connect landowners with livestock producers while supporting fencing, water access, pasture establishment, and even virtual fencing. That conversation naturally leads into the next generation of agriculture. Mike and the Farm4Profit crew discuss how livestock can create a realistic entry point for young producers who may have labor and ambition but lack capital. They explore ideas around financing, conservation incentives, access to land, custom farming, direct-to-consumer agriculture, specialty crops, and off-farm income as ways to create more opportunities for young people to build a future in agriculture. Mike also shares his view that profitability has to remain at the center of every agricultural conversation. Conservation, technology, diversification, and policy only work if the farm itself can remain financially viable. He discusses input costs, market development, trade, Farm Bill uncertainty, E15, and the many pieces that have to come together for producers to succeed. The episode also looks ahead to Iowa's changing political landscape, Mike's 2026 reelection campaign, the role of the Secretary of Agriculture, animal disease preparedness, food safety, pesticide regulation, and why Iowa agriculture remains one of the state's greatest economic strengths. The conversation ends with a question Farm4Profit hears everywhere: How does a young person get into farming? Mike's answer is simple—there is no golden ticket. But there are more paths than ever. Livestock, direct-to-consumer sales, custom application, drones, seed sales, specialty crops, custom farming, and other farm-adjacent businesses can all provide a foothold. His message: farming has never been easy to enter, but agriculture should work to make sure it doesn't become unnecessarily harder. This episode is a wide-ranging look at where Iowa agriculture stands today—and what farmers, policymakers, and rural communities need to think about next. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
From extreme weather swings to agronomy decisions late in the season, Peter Johnson (aka Wheat Pete) is back to tackle a backlog of agronomy questions! After starting off with a heart-warming story about a proud future farmer, Pete dives straight into managing crops under severe drought and record-breaking rainfall, why ag media ranks as the... Read More
This week, Shaye sits down with Chance, a ranch manager at the Noble Research Institute, about extending grazing seasons to cut winter feeding and hay costs. Chance describes Noble's 5,100-acre native-grass operation running about 200 cows, using intensive rotational grazing (moving daily to every few days) and aiming to remove only the top third to half of forage during the growing season so enough standing grass remains for winter. He stresses producers often plan too late, and recommends measuring pasture forage monthly to guide stocking decisions, destocking, or hay purchasing. Winter management includes protein supplementation (cubes/cake) for four to five months and occasional hay during heavy snow. They discuss other options such as cover crops (noting weather risk), rye winter pasture, crop residue grazing, and bale grazing/unrolling or pre-unwrapped bales to improve soil and return nutrients. Learn more about resources from the Noble Research Institute here: http://noble.org/find-a-course Catch more conversations like this one and learn more at https://www.casualcattleconversations.com 00:00 Cutting Input Costs 00:10 Meet Shay and Chance 01:31 Why Extend Grazing 02:05 Noble Ranch System 02:37 Summer Grazing Plan 04:51 Rotation and Calving Setup 06:42 When to Move Cattle 08:43 Stocking and Weather Limits 10:23 Cover Crops and Rye 12:14 Bale Grazing Methods 14:53 Put Nutrients Back
Welcome to the 18th episode of the 2026 season! Madelyn Celovsky, MSU Extension Conservation Agronomist Educator, hosts Dr. Brook Wilke, MSU Associate Director for Science and Agronomy, KBS LTAR. Brook talks about how to make decisions for cover crop selection following wheat harvest. Also, a weather update from Dr. Jeff Andresen . To learn more and register for the live event, check out the MSUE Virtual Breakfast page.
What makes Ag PhD Field Day one of the premier educational events in agriculture every year? In this What's Working in Ag segment, Darren Hefty joins Farm4Profit to preview everything coming to the 2026 Ag PhD Field Day, including brand-new equipment launches, recently approved herbicides, AI discussions, fertility management, and practical agronomic advice for the season ahead. The conversation covers why farmers from across the country attend the event, how innovation continues to reshape agriculture, and why networking with fellow producers can be just as valuable as the latest technology demonstrations. Darren also discusses current crop conditions, disease pressure, fungicide timing, drone applications, fertility economics, and offers practical advice for farmers dealing with flooded fields and prevented planting situations. Whether you're planning to attend Ag PhD Field Day or simply want to stay ahead of the latest developments in agriculture, this episode provides a preview of the technology, products, and management strategies shaping the future of farming. Topics include: Ag PhD Field Day 2026 New equipment introductions AI in agriculture Rapidacill and Convento herbicides Fertility management High fertilizer prices Fungicide timing Tar spot and southern rust Agricultural drones Cover crop strategies Field drainage improvements Learning from other farmers Crop scouting and crop protection Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/Farm4Profit Media is not a financial, legal, or tax advisor. Content is provided for informational purposes only, and we serve solely as a platform for third-party opinions. Any actions taken based on this content are at your own risk. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
João Valente, owner of Monte Silveira, took over his family farm in central-eastern Portugal that was running on tobacco, broccoli, and melons with sixty-five people employed year-round, the rotation designed entirely around subsidies. When the tobacco subsidy disappeared at the end of the 1990s, he found himself with a question: what does this land actually want to be? That question led him to organic agriculture conferences in Portugal, to a magazine showing no-till, to a German seed company that flew him to New Zealand and Australia to see holistic planned grazing in action, and eventually to the first Climate Farmers Congress in a castle in Germany, back in 2021, where he helped write the manifesto, brought ham, wine, and olive oil, and met much of the regenerative agriculture network he's been working with ever since. Today, Monte Silveira manages around 700 hectares of Montado and irrigated annual crops, runs five species of animals, carries sixteen active research projects, has three full-time scientists on staff, and has been no-till since the year 2000.One plus one, in companion cropping, is not two. It might be three, four, or five: two or three species in the same field, each supporting the others, the vetch fixing nitrogen for the wheat, the wheat stem holding up the climbing vetch, and if one fails the other covers it. João has been doing this long enough now that the yield comparisons with neighbouring monoculture fields aren't theoretical. And after decades of absorbing the risk alone, he's at a point where he can start handing the knowledge on, to neighbouring farmers who are curious but can't afford to fail, to the Portuguese government, which recently invited Monte Silveira to one of only three private companies at the table for the country's seven-year environmental strategy document, and to consumers through brands, built on cereals and legumes priced to compete with conventional supermarket products, not just to sell to those who can already afford the premium.In this episode, recorded under the shade of an old farm building during a May heat wave in the Portugal, too hot by then to keep walking the Montado, we get into how a tobacco subsidy became the turning point of a farming life, why João thinks the two groups most drawn to regenerative research are newly graduated scientists and recently retired professors (and almost nobody in between), what it takes to bring the most important conventional almond consultant in Portugal from sceptic to practitioner in under a year, why he would mandate no-till for all dry-land cereal producers in Portugal if he had the legislative pen, what he'd do with a billion euros, and why, given a magic wand, he'd change human ego before he'd change a single farming practice.More about this episode.Thoughts? Ideas? Questions? Send us a message!Find out more about our Generation-Re investment syndicate:https://gen-re.land/ Thank you to our Field Builders Circle for supporting us. Learn more hereSupport the show=======In Investing in Regenerative Agriculture and Food podcast show we talk to the pioneers in the regenerative food and agriculture space to learn more on how to put our money to work to regenerate soil, people, local communities and ecosystems while making an appropriate and fair return. Hosted by Koen van Seijen.
Welcome to episode 441 of Growers Daily! We cover: today we're going to breakdown beet production for the fall and take a question about growing cover crops for compost fodder. We are a Non-Profit!
Welcome to episode 432 of Growers Daily! We cover: we are talking about the value of constraints, why we don't use a greens bubbler on our farm, and what to do when the cover crop mulch just ain't mulching enough. We are a Non-Profit!
Welcome to episode 431 of Growers Daily! We cover: we are talking unconventional cover crops and the sport of growing brussels sprouts. Is that how sports work? We'll find out! We are a Non-Profit!
I know, it feels like we just planted the vegetable garden moments ago. But a close look around as summer really takes hold quickly reminds us that our work is never done. Some crop or other is reaching the end... Read More ›