Podcasts about iowa state university extension

Iowa State University Extension expert David Brown goes over some tips producers can utilize to take breaks, rest, and reduce stress during busy times of the year such as planting and harvest. USDA Radio NewslineSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to Episode 187 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Iowa State University Extension weed specialist Dr. Wesley Everman helps farmers navigate changing herbicide requirements, and economist Dr. John Newton offers his thoughts on the current farm economy.   Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Contact ISU Extension weed specialist Wesley Everman. See more economic analysis from Terrain. Register for one of Iowa Farm Bureau's upcoming Take Root farm succession workshops. Sign up for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2025 Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

David Brown of Iowa State University Extension provides some strategies and techniques that can aid in reducing stress in our lives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, a friend reached out to me because her 19-year-old easy keeper is now showing ribs coming out of a very cold winter. This is a horse who is well-attended to and requires very little to keep his weight on, but as he's shedding, it seems he has lost a bit of weight. This is a relatively common occurrence, particularly as horses age, but there are some steps to take. In this episode, we'll review some weight-gain tips, along with suggestions for determining why weight loss happens in the first place. As promised, below are some helpful links for additional information. Body Condition Scoring video with Dr. Bob Colemam of the University of Kentucky: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bq0ZXnSlsNQ All About Body Condition Scoring (with pictures) from Iowa State University Extension: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/equine/body-condition-score#:~:text=Horses%20are%20scored%20on%20a,ribs%2C%20and%20behind%20the%20shoulder.Need to buy a weight tape? Here's one place online (also check your local feed / tack store): https://a.co/d/j2wPmrK Measuring tape long enough for horses: https://a.co/d/2IVae0eAlso, the "Healthy Horse" app is highly recommended for estimating a horse's body weight!

On this Good Friday edition of Agriculture Today, we'll hear some interviews conducted by members of the Brownfield team over the last week. The reports feature commentary from Illinois farmer Derek Martin, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin, and Iowa State University agronomist Meaghan Anderson.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Farmers often have difficulty determining what their own time and labor is worth. On the Sioux Nation Podcast today, Tim Christenen, Field Specialist with the Farm Business Management team from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, helps us tackle this topic.

We discuss with Adair County Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Youth Coordinator Caroline Savage.

The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach dairy team discussed dairy farm worker health, emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of diseases like avian influenza (H5N1). They highlighted the active influenza season in Iowa, with a vaccination rate of 32%, far below the 70% goal. The team noted the high-risk areas for exposure and stressed the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Resources for biosecurity and health measures were recommended, including the Center for Food Security and Public Health and local public health departments.   Respirators and Fit Testing | Health & Human Services Information for Farm Workers Spanish version of Information for Farm Workers Sioux County Community Health Partners Center for Food Security and Public Health - https://www.cfsph.iastate.edu/ 

The 2025 Dairy Days event, organized by the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach dairy team, featured discussions on various topics including dairy industry surveys, feed pricing tools, and alternative forages. The event saw a high response rate to the dairy industry survey, with topics like farm transitions, financial sustainability, labor challenges, and beef-dairy integration being widely discussed. Local sponsors, such as Osage Vet Clinic and Alliant Energy, provided support. The team also highlighted the importance of health and safety education for dairy farm workers. A new Hay probe was offered as a prize to a participant who filled out an evaluation form.

Brownfield's Mark Dorenkamp visited with Iowa State University Extension & Outreach vice president Jason Henderson following his presentation at the Iowa Farm Bureau Economic Outlook Meeting in Forest City, Iowa.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Brownfield's Mark Dorenkamp interviews Jason Henderson, vice president of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, at the Iowa Farm Bureau Ag Market Outlook Meeting in Forest City, Iowa. Henderson says he believes the ag economy has nearly bottomed out.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ashtin Wells and Lydia Dingeman with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Marion County discuss upcoming events and information on 4-H.

We discuss with Guthrie County Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Youth Coordinator Rachel Blum and Program Director Shelby Van Horn.

Welcome to Episode 178 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, economist and Vice President of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dr. Jason Henderson analyzes the current macro economy and offers farmers insights for 2025. Later in the episode, American Farm Bureau President Zippy Duvall shares agriculture's national policy priorities for 2025 and explains why farmers can advocate for themselves more effectively through Farm Bureau. Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Contact your local county Farm Bureau.

We discuss with Guthrie County Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Youth Coordinator Rachel Blum and Program Director Shelby Van Horn.

We discuss with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Agronomist Mike Witt.

[music] I'm Susie Craig. Welcome to Food Safety in a Minute. Are you concerned about what to do with leftover chocolate candy from Halloween? From a food safety perspective, the risk of foodborne pathogens is very low because of a natural preservative in chocolate and low water activity which bacteria need to grow and multiply. Marlene Greiger of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach recommends storing chocolate in a cool, dry environment such as your pantry. Milk chocolate has a shelf life of a year, white chocolate six months. Placing chocolate in a refrigerator or freezer may lead to bloom. Though it doesn't affect safety, “chocolate may appear dusted or streaked with grey on the surface.” Consider donating candy to a food bank, community buy-back programs, or organizations serving military service members. Call first! From Washington State University Extension, this is Food Safety in a Minute. [music] Resources Greiger, Marlene. Chocolate – Shelf Life, Storage, and Bloom. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Answer Line. 11/7/23. https://blogs.extension.iastate.edu/answerline/2023/11/07/chocolate-shelf-life-storage-and-bloom/comment-page-1/#:~:text=STORAGE.%20The%20shelf%20life%20of%20chocolate%20is%20dependent%20upon. Accessed online 9/24/24. Koenig, Ronnie. Today – All Day. 10/3/23. https://www.today.com/parents/how-donate-halloween-candy-good-cause-t117994. Accessed online 9/24/24.

In this episode, Christa Hartsook welcomes Ethan Bowers, an Extension Enterprise Development Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, to discuss the upcoming Meat Processor Lifecycle Workshop. This workshop is designed for meat processing professionals, offering essential insights into the entire business lifecycle—from startup financing to transitioning ownership. Join us for this informative episode to prepare for the workshop on November 7, and ensure your meat processing business is equipped for success. Don't miss the early bird registration deadline on October 27! Tune in for all the details you need to thrive in this essential industry. Episode Links:  • Meat Processor Lifecyle Workshop web page: https://go.iastate.edu/PX57B4  • Ethan Bowers: embowers@iastate.edu, (515) 460-6068   

Welcome to Episode 171 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Story County brothers Jason and John Maxwell share the journey that led to them becoming Iowa's 2024 Conservation Farmers of the Year. Later in the episode, Iowa State University Extension behavioral health expert Dr. David Brown reminds farmers of steps they should take to care for their mental health needs during the stressful harvest season.  Resources mentioned in this episode: Read more about 2024 Iowa Conservation Farmer of the Year award winners John and Jason Maxwell. Learn more about Iowa's conservation progress at ConservationCountsIowa.com. Iowa Concern website and hotline. Farm stress resources, including free, one-on-one, ongoing counseling for Iowa farm families, through Personal Assistance Services.

Iowa State University Extension field agronomist in Southwest Iowa Aaron Saeugling tells us about the status of the crops in his area after some "crop-saving rain" fell this month, but not over the entirety of his territory. He also gives some insight on insect issues in Southwest Iowa, including ear worm.

In this episode, Iowa State University Extension's Chad Hart discusses the impact 2023 corn stocks could have on the overall corn market. Merck Animal Health's Dr. John Hutcheson shares strategies for bringing in more money at the cattle sale barns. American Farm Bureau Federation's Bernt Nelson discusses the impact Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza continues to have on the agriculture industry. National Cattlemen's Beef Association's Hunter Ihrman shares the story of a protein shortage at the Summer Olympics in Paris. U.S. Meat Export Federation's Jim Remcheck talks about gains being made by the U.S. pork industry in Malaysia. In “Bushels and Cents,” Ray Bohacz provides valuable fuel injector cleaner education. The episode also features the music of John Paycheck. Timestamps Intro and news: 0:00 Chad Hart, Iowa State University Extension: 6:09 Dr. John Hutcheson, Merck Animal Health: 7:06 Bernt Nelson, American Farm Bureau Federation: 10:36 Hunter Ihrman, National Cattlemen's Beef Association: 12:30 Jim Remchek, U.S. Meat Export Federation: 24:51 Ray Bohacz, “Bushels and Cents”: 27:15 John Paycheck: 28:45

In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Janke, Wildlife Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Listen in as they talk about livestock grazing amongst wildlife, how to protect wildlife while we are working in our fields, and more!  Episode Links:  • Sign up for the CRP grazing study: https://www.nrem.iastate.edu/project/cattle-grazing-conservation-reserve-program-grasslands • More information on wildlife & grazing: https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/wildlife/managing-pasture-and-hay-wildlife • Adam Janke - ajanke@iastate.edu  |  515-294-7429

On this episode, former Nebraska Sen. Ben Nelson says the yet-to-be-passed Farm Bill encompasses more than just production agriculture. Iowa State University Extension's Catherine DeLong discusses edge-of-field conservation practice, and Greg McBride, a commodity broker with Allendale tells you if now is the right time to market grain. Also, U.S. Wheat Associates President Vince Peterson recaps the organization's recent summer meeting in Oklahoma City, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Beef Program Specialist Chris Clark says farmers and ranchers need to beware of foot rot among their herds, and BidOnBeef.com represents a new way to buy and sell beef. In our “Meat Monitor” segment, Jim Douglas discusses how the beef industry is benefitting from U.S. soybeans and vice versa. In “Bushels and Cents,” Ray Bohacz talks about warning signs for possible automatic transmission fuid failure. The episode also features the music of J.D. Shelburne. Timestamps Intro and news: 0:00 Ben Nelson: 6:02 Catherine DeLong, Iowa State University Extension: 7:48 Greg McBride, Allendale: 9:50 Vince Peterson, U.S. Wheat Associates: 13:16 Chris Clark, Iowa State University Extension: 15:28 Amanda Radke, BidOnBeef.com: 17:05 Jim Douglas, United Soybean Board: 21:40 Ray Bohacz, “Bushels and Cents”: 23:39 J.D. Shelburne: 25:16

Iowa State University Extension field agronomist Rebecca Vittetoe in East-Central Iowa talks about the impact in that area from Monday's derecho and tornadoes and highlights the particular crops that saw the most damage. She also gives an update on root worm in that part of Iowa.

Iowa State University Extension field agronomist Meaghan Anderson in Central Iowa tells us about the impacts in the area from last night's weather event and discusses some of the questions she has been answering on fungicide application and pests.

Welcome to Episode 165 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, we share state and federal assistance available to Iowans impacted by recent severe storms, tornadoes and flooding, with a guest from the FEMA disaster response team that covers Iowa (John Mills) and Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. Resources Mentioned in this Episode DisasterRecovery.Iowa.gov Iowa's new Disaster Recovery Farm Interest Program (DRFIP) Two-sheet background document on Iowa's Disaster Recovery Farm Interest Program (DRFIP) Iowa Disaster Agriculture Resource Guide FEMA's national website (DisasterAssistance.gov) and hotline: 1-800-621-3362 Preparing for natural disasters (Ready.gov) Disaster resources through Iowa State University Extension

In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Thoms, Assistant Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist at Iowa State University. Tune in to hear all about summer lawn care! We know this year has been WET, and Adam gives us some tips on how to get our lawns looking good again after they've had the stress of water pooling.  Episode Links:  • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard and Garden: https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/  • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Department of Horticulture: https://www.hort.iastate.edu/extension-and-outreach/ 

Iowa State University Extension's Dr. Charles Hurburgh discusses what farmers need to do if their crops have been impacted by flooding.

Iowa State University Extension and Outreach of Marion County Youth Coordinator Ashtin Wells discusses 4-H preparations for the 2024 Marion County Fair.

Welcome to Episode 163 of The Spokesman Speaks podcast. In this episode, Vice President of Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Dr. Jason Henderson analyzes Iowa's current ag economy and explores keys he sees for future economic success. And young Iowa farmer Hans Riensche shares what he hopes to learn about transitioning farms to future generations sustainably, through an international study program.   Resources mentioned in this episode: Learn more about the Nuffield Scholar program and Hans Riensche. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's “Take Root” farm succession seminar, July 25 in Johnston. Register for Iowa Farm Bureau's 2024 Young Farmer Ag Insights Tour.

Jim Field visits with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Field Agronomist Aaron Saeugling about the Armstrong Research and Demonstration Farm Field Day from 9:30 am to 3:30 pm on June 27.

It's "Next Gen" Week and we have Ann Johanns, Extension Program Specialist, Farm Management at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, join us to discuss her recent article on the topic, Getting Started in Farming: On the Home Farm." Then, we keep the conversation going with the Farmer Forum, featuring Randy Francois of Iowa and Tony Mellinthin of Wisconsin.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iowa State University Extension field agronomist Meghan Anderson in Central Iowa says that as planting finishes for some, she is doing a lot of stand evaluation and discussing potential need for re-planting. She also talks about some unusual pest issues she's encountering and discusses the need to slow down the rainfall.

Dan Basse, president of AgResource Company, joins us to discuss the upcoming national election in Mexico and how the results might affect trade. Farm Journal agronomist Ken Ferrie of Crop-tech Consulting provides some late planting season advice and we hear about a corn rootworm monitoring project from Ashley Dean, extension specialist, field crop entomology at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Plus, we have a new episode of United Soybean Board's Soy Checkoff Check-in podcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Did you know May is National Mental Health Awareness Month? We have a few voices on today's episode to discuss farmers' mental health. First, you'll hear from Kentucky farmer Quint Pottinger, owner of Affinity Farms. Then, Emily Krekelberg, Minnesota extension educator and dairy farmer, followed by Tammy Jacobs, Iowa State University Extension outreach and coordinator for the Iowa Concern hotline. In combination, this episode pulls together advice on how to support other farmers and what signs to look for if you or someone you love is struggling. Episode ResourcesAg Worker Mental Health TrainingRHIhubIowa Concern Hotline online or call 1-800-447-1985

In this episode, Olivia chats with Randall Cass, Bee Extension Specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, for an enlightening discussion on starting your beekeeping journey in Iowa. From colony care to hive management, we explore the essential aspects you need to know. If you're considering taking up beekeeping, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Episode Links:  • Beekeeping-Enterprise Budget Series: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Beekeeping-Enterprise-Budget-Series • Iowa State University Bee Program: https://bees.cals.iastate.edu/

In this episode, Christa sits down with Dennis Todey, Director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, Agricultural Climatology Specialist at Iowa State Extension and Outreach. As the weather shifts and farmers gear up for planting season, our focus turns to the forecast for the coming months. Join us for an insightful discussion on what lies ahead! Episode Links:  • Midwest Climate Hub Outlook: https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/midwest/climate-outlooks  • Sign up for their webinars: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7528179497868100876  • Weather and Climate with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/climate  • Madelynn Wuestenberg on Twitter: https://twitter.com/maddy_climate 

Meaghan Anderson, field agronomist for central Iowa and industry extension specialist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, shares her background as a woman in ag, how her current position supports farmers and her predictions for the 2024 growing season. Make sure you stay up to date on everything Stine by following us on all our social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StineSeed  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stineseedco/ X: https://twitter.com/StineSeed

On Tuesday's AOA, powered by Cenex Premium Lubricants, we start the show with a look at market action ahead of the USDA reports with Mike Minor from Professional Ag Marketing. In Segment Two, we get some agronomy tips ahead of spring planting season with Angie Rieck-Hinz, Field Agronomist with Iowa State University Extension. Next up in Segment Three, we discuss ethanol related topics like E-15, the recent EPA tailpipe emissions rule and the recent CERAWeek activities with Growth Energy CEO, Emily Skor. Finally in Segment Four, we get the results of the Farm Futures March 2024 acreage estimates with Jacqueline (Jacquie) Holland, Grain Market Analyst with Farm Futures and Farm Progress.  

Tune in as Olivia interviews Dan Nieland, Small Business Education Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, They discuss the upcoming Small Meat Processor Workshop that will take place on April 25, 2024, at the Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center (2508 Mortensen Rd. Ames, IA 50011). This is a free workshop but registration is required no later than April 10, 2024!   Episode Links:  • Registration Link: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ezaODjDpnJltr3E   • Dan Nieland: dnieland@iastate.edu  • Farm, Food, and Enterprise Development News Release: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/ffed/small-meat-processor-workshop-be-held-april-25 

Host and American Family Farmer, Doug Stephan www.eastleighfarm.com introduces us to Dr. Chad E. Hart Professor, Iowa State University Department of Economics Area of Expertise: Agricultural and Natural Resource Economics. Called "Dr. Doom" by some. Heading into 2024, he paints a somewhat more encouraging picture for grain prices than USDA does. When the Iowa State University Extension ag economist spoke to farmers at the Purdue Top Farmer Conference in early January, USDA's latest estimates for 2024 average prices were $4.50 per bushel for corn and $11.30 per bushel for soybeans. Hart expects strong production, around 15 billion bushels or more, into the near future. Even with good demand for corn for feed and ethanol, it will take rebuilding export demand to move lots of bushels.

Tune in as Olivia interviews Radall Vos, Commercial Fruit Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss what is going on with fruit crops this year and how has this warm front effected the plants? Also is there time to still get new crops planted? If so, when should we plant and where should we purchase them? Episode Links:  • Fruit Cultivars of Iowa: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Fruit-Cultivars-for-Iowa  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISUExtensionFruit  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iowafruitguy/ 

Tanner and Delaney sit down with Meaghan Anderson, field agronomist for Iowa State University Extension, to discuss potential challenges for the 2024 growing season.

Tune in as Olivia interviews Catherine DeLong, Water Quality Program Manager with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss the new Landowner Education Program being offered through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach! This unique learning experience will bring together experts on conservation, agronomy, financial and legal topics. Landowners will have the opportunity to learn from ISU experts and from each other as part of a small learning group.    Episode Links:  • Apply now to be a part of the first cohort: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1Ili9mFC5wjueQ6  • Catherine DeLong: crdelong@iastate.edu  

Dr. Dan Quinn from Purdue University and Field Extension Specialist Angie Rieck-Hinz from Iowa State University gave us key learnings from their 2023 growing seasons.  There is a ton of great insight in this short podcast!   Never stop learning, keep the faith, red crown rot, Purdue Basketball!  D3 drought, Fertility, Potassium, Sulfur, and more!  Enjoy and thanks for learning with us! 

Today, Madeline Schultz, Women in Ag Program Manager for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, shares about their upcoming agriculture cybersecurity seminar.

Tune in as Olivia interviews Adam Thoms, Assistant Professor and Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Turfgrass Specialist, Joe Hill, Manager of Turf & Grounds with Iowa State University Athletics, and Michael Young, Assistant Manager of Turf & Grounds with Iowa State University Athletics. In this episode, we discuss the benefits of having a natural field for athletes to play on as well as how they maintain the natural field! Episode Links:  • Iowa State University Extension store (lawn): https://store.extension.iastate.edu/ProductList?Keyword=lawn&S=0&A=0&F=0 

Tune in as Christa interviews Alexis Stevens, Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss the importance of cyber security and how even our small farm business could be at risk. Alexis gives us a few tips on how we can protect ourselves and talks about the upcoming Cyber Security on the Farm Conference being held in Ames at the Iowa State Alumni Center on January 11, 2024. Episode Links:  •Cyber Security on the Farm Conference: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/info/cybersecurityevent.html 

In this episode, Olivia interviews Madeline Schultz, Women in Ag Program Manager with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, as well as Rylee Sloss & Kiley Allan, interns with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Program. Tune in as they discuss the conference coming up as well as talk about some of the exciting speakers that will be joining them this year! Episode Links:  • Women in Ag Website: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag/  • Women in Ag Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/ISUWomeninAg  • Conference Registration: https://www.regcytes.extension.iastate.edu/womeninag/ 

Diane Van WyngardenDiane Van Wyngarden is a highly respected educator and community leader based in Iowa. She has dedicated much of her career to serving as an Extension Educator with the Iowa State University Extension, where she has worked tirelessly to provide educational resources and support to farmers and rural communities across the state. In recent years, Diane has focused her efforts on helping Agri-Tourism farms to thrive, recognizing the critical role they play in promoting sustainable agriculture and boosting local economies. Through her work, Diane has earned a reputation as a passionate advocate for agriculture and rural development, and as a tireless champion for the people and communities of Iowa.What is agritourism, and what are some examples of successful agritourism businesses?What are some of the biggest challenges that come with running an agritourism business, and how can you overcome them?How do you identify a unique selling point for your agritourism business, and why is it important to have one?What are some important considerations to keep in mind when starting an agritourism business, such as zoning laws, liability insurance, and permits?What are some common mistakes that people make when starting an agritourism business, and how can you avoid them?How can you promote your agritourism business effectively, both online and offline?What are some ways to diversify your revenue streams as an agritourism business, such as offering classes, selling products, or hosting events?How can you create an engaging and immersive experience for your visitors, and what are some best practices for doing so?What are some trends and changes that are affecting the agritourism industry, and how can you adapt to them?How can you build strong relationships with local businesses and organizations to support your agritourism business?How can you measure the success of your agritourism business, and what metrics should you be tracking?What are some resources and networks that you can tap into as an agritourism business owner, such as industry associations or mentorship programs?Agritourism businesses can be costly to start and operate, and there are some expenses that are often overlooked. Here are some examples:Permits and Licensing: Depending on the type of agritourism business you're starting, you may need to obtain permits and licenses from local and state governments. These can be expensive and time-consuming to acquire.Liability Insurance: Agritourism businesses often involve visitors interacting with livestock, equipment, and other potential hazards. It's important to have liability insurance in case of accidents or injuries.Infrastructure: Agritourism businesses often require infrastructure like parking lots, restrooms, and picnic areas. These can be expensive to build and maintain, but they're necessary to provide a safe and comfortable experience for visitors.Marketing and Advertising: It's important to promote your agritourism business to potential customers, but marketing and advertising can be expensive. It's important to develop a comprehensive marketing plan that targets your ideal customers and fits within your budget.Employee Training: If you have employees working on your farm or ranch, it's important to provide them with proper training and safety protocols. This can be time-consuming and expensive, but it's necessary to ensure the safety of your employees and visitors.Maintenance and Upkeep: Agritourism businesses require ongoing maintenance and upkeep, from repairing equipment to mowing fields to cleaning up after visitors. These costs can add up over time and should be factored into your budget.Taxes: Agritourism businesses are subject to a variety of taxes, including property taxes, sales taxes, and income taxes. It's important to understand your tax obligations and to set aside funds to pay them.Legal Fees: Agritourism businesses may require legal assistance for issues like liability waivers, zoning laws, and contract disputes. Legal fees can be expensive, so it's important to have a plan in place to cover these costs.Accessibility: Making your agritourism business accessible to visitors with disabilities can be expensive, requiring the installation of ramps, handrails, and other accommodations. It's important to factor these costs into your budget and to comply with accessibility regulations.Emergency Planning: Agritourism businesses need to have emergency plans in place for situations like severe weather, medical emergencies, and power outages. Developing and implementing these plans can be time-consuming and expensive, but they're essential for the safety of your visitors and employees.What did we miss?What advice would you give yourself at ag 18 or to someone who is 18 and listening to use right nowSummary & Challenge   Here are 10 successful agritourism businesses in Iowa:Living History Farms: Located in Urbandale, Living History Farms is an outdoor museum that showcases Iowa's agricultural and rural history. Visitors can take guided tours, participate in hands-on activities, and explore a working 1875 farm.Picket Fence Creamery: This family-owned dairy farm in Woodward offers tours, tastings, and events, as well as a farm store where visitors can purchase ice cream, cheese, and other dairy products.Summerset Winery: Located in Indianola, Summerset Winery offers tours, tastings, and live music events in a picturesque setting overlooking the Iowa countryside.Center Grove Orchard: This family-friendly orchard in Cambridge features a pumpkin patch, corn maze, apple picking, and other seasonal activities, as well as a farm store and bakery.Buffalo Ridge Orchard: Located in Central City, Buffalo Ridge Orchard is a popular destination for apple picking, cider tastings, and hayrides, as well as a farm store selling apples, pumpkins, and other produce.Iowa Wine Tours: This company offers guided tours of Iowa's wineries and vineyards, with options for private and custom tours as well as group packages.Howell's Pumpkin Patch: This family-owned pumpkin farm in Cumming features a corn maze, petting zoo, and other activities, as well as a pumpkin patch and farm store selling pumpkins, gourds, and other fall decor.Hansen's Dairy: This farm in Hudson offers tours of its dairy and creamery, as well as a farm store selling milk, cheese, and other dairy products.Maquoketa Caves State Park: While not strictly an agritourism business, this state park in Maquoketa features hiking trails through a network of caves and rock formations, as well as a campground and picnic area.Rustic Ridge Winery: Located in Lisbon, Rustic Ridge Winery offers tastings of its award-winning wines, as well as live music and other events in a scenic rural setting. Agritourism is an industry that's constantly evolving and innovating. Here are some examples of new and emerging types of agritourism being offered:Farm-to-Table Dinners: Many farms and orchards are now offering on-site dining experiences, featuring locally-sourced ingredients and seasonal menus.Agricultural Education and Workshops: Visitors can now learn about specific aspects of farming, such as beekeeping, composting, or sustainable agriculture through workshops and classes offered by farmers.Farm Stays: These are similar to traditional bed and breakfasts, but guests stay on a working farm and can participate in farm activities, such as milking cows, collecting eggs, and feeding animals.Agritourism and Wellness Retreats: Some farmers are partnering with wellness professionals to offer yoga, meditation, and other wellness activities on their farms.U-Pick Flowers: In addition to traditional u-pick fruit farms, some farmers are now offering visitors the chance to pick their own flowers, creating a unique and colorful agritourism experience.Farm-to-Spa Experiences: Some farmers are now incorporating their own farm-grown herbs, fruits, and other ingredients into spa treatments, creating a unique and locally-sourced wellness experience.Agritourism and Adventure: Many farms and ranches are now offering adventure activities, such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and hiking, giving visitors a chance to explore the outdoors and connect with nature.Virtual Agritourism: With the pandemic, many farms and ranches are offering virtual tours, workshops, and tastings online, giving people a chance to experience agritourism from the comfort of their own homes.Agritourism and Glamping: Some farmers are now offering glamping (glamorous camping) experiences on their farms, with luxury tents, comfortable bedding, and on-site amenities.Agritourism and Art: Some farmers are now collaborating with local artists to create art installations and exhibits on their farms, creating a unique and creative agritourism experience.