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A downside of farm consolidation has been the toll it has taken on rural economies.
It has never been easy to be a farmer. But these days, in the face of rising costs, tariffs, and consolidation, keeping a small farm in business seems next to impossible. But there is a way to survive, and it might just be the key to protecting our health, cleaning up our water, and saving our soil. In this episode, Amy talks with Chaz Self from Grassway Organics about the future of farming, and where we all fit in. Plus, pizza! Host: Amy Barrilleaux Guest: Chaz Self, Grassway Organics Resources for You: Nitrates on Tap: The Cost of Nitrate Contamination in Wisconsin's Drinking Water Grassway Organics Pizza on the Farm
Backyard gardens flush with cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers where bees buzz and chickens scratch. Beyond, a forest filled with blackberries and jewelweed. Inspired by childhood memories of his grandmother's overflowing backyard garden, author Andrew Flachs has embarked on a multi-continent, decades-long look at agriculture and its value. The dominant view of agriculture has focused only on what we produce. It sees value in terms of capital gains or yield efficiency, masking how our global food system produces tremendous amounts of food commodities while failing to feed people, support rural communities, or enhance ecological well-being. Feeding the World as if People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields (University of Arizona Press, 2026) asks us to look more deeply and more humanely at what we perceive to be most valuable in our agricultural systems. This book draws on fifteen years of anthropological research, taking readers to fields in South India, Eastern Europe, and North America, where people are already feeding the future amid global change. From these fields, Flachs shows us how a radical rethinking of the value of small farms and farmers is already happening. Bringing together conversations in agriculture, economics, anthropology, and the environmental humanities, Flachs deftly shows how small farms reproduce social and ecological relationships that are the only sustainable path forward. For anyone who is curious about the food on their plate and the people who helped to get it there, Feeding the World as if People Mattered will offer a new way to find value in the food we grow and the people who grow it. Dr. Andrew Flachs researches food and agriculture systems, exploring genetically modified crops, heirloom seeds, and our own microbiomes. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, he graduated from Oberlin College with dual Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2010. He earned his PhD from Washington University in St. Louis in April 2016 and was a 2016-2017 Volkswagen Exchange Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Heidelberg University Karl Jaspers Centre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. He is currently an associate professor of anthropology at Purdue University. His work among farmers in North America, the Balkans, and South India investigates ecological knowledge and technological change in agricultural systems spanning Cleveland urban gardens and Indian GM cotton fields. His research has been supported by public and private institutions including the Department of Education, the National Geographic Society, the American Institute of Indian Studies, and the Social Science Research Council, while his writing on agricultural development has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications as well as public venues including Sapiens, Salon, and the National Geographic magazine. His work has been recognized by eight international awards, including most recently as a finalist for the Society for Economic Anthropology Kate Browne Creativity in Research Award and the International Convention of Asia Scholars' Book Prize. Sandra Elizabeth is a graduate student enrolled at the Department of Sociology in Shiv Nadar University, Delhi- NCR. She looks at rice farmers' and their way of life in Kuttanad, Kerala—which is dubbed as the state's rice granary. She can be reached out on X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
Backyard gardens flush with cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers where bees buzz and chickens scratch. Beyond, a forest filled with blackberries and jewelweed. Inspired by childhood memories of his grandmother's overflowing backyard garden, author Andrew Flachs has embarked on a multi-continent, decades-long look at agriculture and its value. The dominant view of agriculture has focused only on what we produce. It sees value in terms of capital gains or yield efficiency, masking how our global food system produces tremendous amounts of food commodities while failing to feed people, support rural communities, or enhance ecological well-being. Feeding the World as if People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields (University of Arizona Press, 2026) asks us to look more deeply and more humanely at what we perceive to be most valuable in our agricultural systems. This book draws on fifteen years of anthropological research, taking readers to fields in South India, Eastern Europe, and North America, where people are already feeding the future amid global change. From these fields, Flachs shows us how a radical rethinking of the value of small farms and farmers is already happening. Bringing together conversations in agriculture, economics, anthropology, and the environmental humanities, Flachs deftly shows how small farms reproduce social and ecological relationships that are the only sustainable path forward. For anyone who is curious about the food on their plate and the people who helped to get it there, Feeding the World as if People Mattered will offer a new way to find value in the food we grow and the people who grow it. Dr. Andrew Flachs researches food and agriculture systems, exploring genetically modified crops, heirloom seeds, and our own microbiomes. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, he graduated from Oberlin College with dual Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2010. He earned his PhD from Washington University in St. Louis in April 2016 and was a 2016-2017 Volkswagen Exchange Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Heidelberg University Karl Jaspers Centre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. He is currently an associate professor of anthropology at Purdue University. His work among farmers in North America, the Balkans, and South India investigates ecological knowledge and technological change in agricultural systems spanning Cleveland urban gardens and Indian GM cotton fields. His research has been supported by public and private institutions including the Department of Education, the National Geographic Society, the American Institute of Indian Studies, and the Social Science Research Council, while his writing on agricultural development has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications as well as public venues including Sapiens, Salon, and the National Geographic magazine. His work has been recognized by eight international awards, including most recently as a finalist for the Society for Economic Anthropology Kate Browne Creativity in Research Award and the International Convention of Asia Scholars' Book Prize. Sandra Elizabeth is a graduate student enrolled at the Department of Sociology in Shiv Nadar University, Delhi- NCR. She looks at rice farmers' and their way of life in Kuttanad, Kerala—which is dubbed as the state's rice granary. She can be reached out on X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/environmental-studies
Backyard gardens flush with cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers where bees buzz and chickens scratch. Beyond, a forest filled with blackberries and jewelweed. Inspired by childhood memories of his grandmother's overflowing backyard garden, author Andrew Flachs has embarked on a multi-continent, decades-long look at agriculture and its value. The dominant view of agriculture has focused only on what we produce. It sees value in terms of capital gains or yield efficiency, masking how our global food system produces tremendous amounts of food commodities while failing to feed people, support rural communities, or enhance ecological well-being. Feeding the World as if People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields (University of Arizona Press, 2026) asks us to look more deeply and more humanely at what we perceive to be most valuable in our agricultural systems. This book draws on fifteen years of anthropological research, taking readers to fields in South India, Eastern Europe, and North America, where people are already feeding the future amid global change. From these fields, Flachs shows us how a radical rethinking of the value of small farms and farmers is already happening. Bringing together conversations in agriculture, economics, anthropology, and the environmental humanities, Flachs deftly shows how small farms reproduce social and ecological relationships that are the only sustainable path forward. For anyone who is curious about the food on their plate and the people who helped to get it there, Feeding the World as if People Mattered will offer a new way to find value in the food we grow and the people who grow it. Dr. Andrew Flachs researches food and agriculture systems, exploring genetically modified crops, heirloom seeds, and our own microbiomes. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, he graduated from Oberlin College with dual Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2010. He earned his PhD from Washington University in St. Louis in April 2016 and was a 2016-2017 Volkswagen Exchange Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Heidelberg University Karl Jaspers Centre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. He is currently an associate professor of anthropology at Purdue University. His work among farmers in North America, the Balkans, and South India investigates ecological knowledge and technological change in agricultural systems spanning Cleveland urban gardens and Indian GM cotton fields. His research has been supported by public and private institutions including the Department of Education, the National Geographic Society, the American Institute of Indian Studies, and the Social Science Research Council, while his writing on agricultural development has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications as well as public venues including Sapiens, Salon, and the National Geographic magazine. His work has been recognized by eight international awards, including most recently as a finalist for the Society for Economic Anthropology Kate Browne Creativity in Research Award and the International Convention of Asia Scholars' Book Prize. Sandra Elizabeth is a graduate student enrolled at the Department of Sociology in Shiv Nadar University, Delhi- NCR. She looks at rice farmers' and their way of life in Kuttanad, Kerala—which is dubbed as the state's rice granary. She can be reached out on X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/anthropology
Backyard gardens flush with cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers where bees buzz and chickens scratch. Beyond, a forest filled with blackberries and jewelweed. Inspired by childhood memories of his grandmother's overflowing backyard garden, author Andrew Flachs has embarked on a multi-continent, decades-long look at agriculture and its value. The dominant view of agriculture has focused only on what we produce. It sees value in terms of capital gains or yield efficiency, masking how our global food system produces tremendous amounts of food commodities while failing to feed people, support rural communities, or enhance ecological well-being. Feeding the World as if People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields (University of Arizona Press, 2026) asks us to look more deeply and more humanely at what we perceive to be most valuable in our agricultural systems. This book draws on fifteen years of anthropological research, taking readers to fields in South India, Eastern Europe, and North America, where people are already feeding the future amid global change. From these fields, Flachs shows us how a radical rethinking of the value of small farms and farmers is already happening. Bringing together conversations in agriculture, economics, anthropology, and the environmental humanities, Flachs deftly shows how small farms reproduce social and ecological relationships that are the only sustainable path forward. For anyone who is curious about the food on their plate and the people who helped to get it there, Feeding the World as if People Mattered will offer a new way to find value in the food we grow and the people who grow it. Dr. Andrew Flachs researches food and agriculture systems, exploring genetically modified crops, heirloom seeds, and our own microbiomes. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, he graduated from Oberlin College with dual Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2010. He earned his PhD from Washington University in St. Louis in April 2016 and was a 2016-2017 Volkswagen Exchange Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Heidelberg University Karl Jaspers Centre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. He is currently an associate professor of anthropology at Purdue University. His work among farmers in North America, the Balkans, and South India investigates ecological knowledge and technological change in agricultural systems spanning Cleveland urban gardens and Indian GM cotton fields. His research has been supported by public and private institutions including the Department of Education, the National Geographic Society, the American Institute of Indian Studies, and the Social Science Research Council, while his writing on agricultural development has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications as well as public venues including Sapiens, Salon, and the National Geographic magazine. His work has been recognized by eight international awards, including most recently as a finalist for the Society for Economic Anthropology Kate Browne Creativity in Research Award and the International Convention of Asia Scholars' Book Prize. Sandra Elizabeth is a graduate student enrolled at the Department of Sociology in Shiv Nadar University, Delhi- NCR. She looks at rice farmers' and their way of life in Kuttanad, Kerala—which is dubbed as the state's rice granary. She can be reached out on X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/food
Backyard gardens flush with cucumbers, tomatoes, and peppers where bees buzz and chickens scratch. Beyond, a forest filled with blackberries and jewelweed. Inspired by childhood memories of his grandmother's overflowing backyard garden, author Andrew Flachs has embarked on a multi-continent, decades-long look at agriculture and its value. The dominant view of agriculture has focused only on what we produce. It sees value in terms of capital gains or yield efficiency, masking how our global food system produces tremendous amounts of food commodities while failing to feed people, support rural communities, or enhance ecological well-being. Feeding the World as if People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields (University of Arizona Press, 2026) asks us to look more deeply and more humanely at what we perceive to be most valuable in our agricultural systems. This book draws on fifteen years of anthropological research, taking readers to fields in South India, Eastern Europe, and North America, where people are already feeding the future amid global change. From these fields, Flachs shows us how a radical rethinking of the value of small farms and farmers is already happening. Bringing together conversations in agriculture, economics, anthropology, and the environmental humanities, Flachs deftly shows how small farms reproduce social and ecological relationships that are the only sustainable path forward. For anyone who is curious about the food on their plate and the people who helped to get it there, Feeding the World as if People Mattered will offer a new way to find value in the food we grow and the people who grow it. Dr. Andrew Flachs researches food and agriculture systems, exploring genetically modified crops, heirloom seeds, and our own microbiomes. Born and raised in rural Pennsylvania, he graduated from Oberlin College with dual Bachelor of Music and Bachelor of Arts degrees in 2010. He earned his PhD from Washington University in St. Louis in April 2016 and was a 2016-2017 Volkswagen Exchange Postdoctoral Research Fellow with the Heidelberg University Karl Jaspers Centre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. He is currently an associate professor of anthropology at Purdue University. His work among farmers in North America, the Balkans, and South India investigates ecological knowledge and technological change in agricultural systems spanning Cleveland urban gardens and Indian GM cotton fields. His research has been supported by public and private institutions including the Department of Education, the National Geographic Society, the American Institute of Indian Studies, and the Social Science Research Council, while his writing on agricultural development has been featured in numerous peer-reviewed publications as well as public venues including Sapiens, Salon, and the National Geographic magazine. His work has been recognized by eight international awards, including most recently as a finalist for the Society for Economic Anthropology Kate Browne Creativity in Research Award and the International Convention of Asia Scholars' Book Prize. Sandra Elizabeth is a graduate student enrolled at the Department of Sociology in Shiv Nadar University, Delhi- NCR. She looks at rice farmers' and their way of life in Kuttanad, Kerala—which is dubbed as the state's rice granary. She can be reached out on X. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/economics
What if the answers to today's biggest challenges, our food, health, happiness, and the future of our planet, begin by returning to the land? Tune in for an inspiring discussion with Elizabeth Woodworth on her new book Garden Earth: Grounding Ourselves in Nature on Small Farms.Moments with Marianne Radio Show airs in the Southern California area on KMET1490AM & 98.1 FM, an ABC Talk News Radio Affiliate! https://www.kmet1490am.com Elizabeth Woodworth (Queen's Univ., BA Phil, Eng, Hist; Lib. Sci. degree, UBC); 25 years head medical librarian BC Govt. Author of popular handbook on nuclear weapons activism, “What Can I Do?” Writer on climate change science and activism; co-producer COP21 video “A Climate Revolution For All.” Order on Amazon: https://a.co/d/07ZOAYMuDiscover inspiring conversations with today's leading authors, celebrities, thought leaders, and change makers. To learn more about the Moments with Marianne Radio Show, explore guest interview opportunities, connect with Marianne, and follow her on social media, visit https://www.mariannepestana.com Explore the Moments with Marianne Book Club and find your next great read: https://www.mariannepestana.com/book-club/ Listen to the Moments with Marianne Radio Show on KMET 1490AM & 98.1FM, an ABC News Radio Affiliate, weekdays at 8:06 AM PT / 11:06 AM ET and Sundays at 10:06 AM PT / 1:06 PM ET. Learn more at: https://www.kmet1490am.com/moments-with-marianne
Farm country has been waiting on a new farm bill for almost two years. Angie Craig, the top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee and a Minnesota congresswoman now running for the state's open Senate seat, joins Heidi and Joel to talk about what's holding it up, what tariffs have cost rural families, and why farm bankruptcies are becoming as much a security question as an economic one.Angie covers the imbalance that lets large agribusiness thrive while beginning farmers struggle to get a foothold, what immigration enforcement means for rural communities, and where she thinks the next farm bill needs to go if it's going to help anyone outside the biggest operations.In this episode:The status of the farm bill and what it means for small and beginning farmersThe impact of trade tariffs on U.S. agricultureRising farm bankruptcies and farm suicidesRebuilding trust and economic resilience in rural communitiesPolitical dynamics in Congress between Republican and Democratic membersElection timing and Minnesota's primary processICE reform and immigration policy's effect on rural laborResources & Links:Angie Craig Official WebsiteConnect with Angie Craig:InstagramFacebookTwitterCongresswoman Craig makes a solid case for where Washington has failed rural America, and where it goes from here. The Hot Dish is brought to you by the One Country Project. To learn more, visit OneCountryProject.org, or find us on Substack (Onecountryproject.substack.com), and on YouTube, Bluesky, and Facebook (@onecountryproject). (00:00) - - Introduction: Craig's district and rural policy focus (00:34) - - Farm bill negotiations with Republicans (03:25) - - Family farmers and rising bankruptcies (05:40) - - Structuring a farm bill for small and beginning farmers (09:43) - - Tariffs, trade wars, and international markets (14:06) - - Policy decisions and rural mental health (16:02) - - Immigration enforcement and its effect on communities (18:22) - - Winning rural voters and rebuilding trust (24:06) - - Immigration reform: farm labor and DACA recipients (30:50) - - Bipartisanship and election timing (35:22) - - Craig's campaign goals and vision for Minnesota
Ashley Armstrong is a first-generation regenerative farmer and co-founder of Strong Sistas, a health platform born out of her own autoimmune diagnosis. She built Angel Acres Farm in Southwest Michigan from the ground up, producing corn- and soy-free eggs, and went on to found Nourish Food Club - a cooperative network of small regenerative farms supplying clean, transparently raised food directly to families.What We CoverHow Ashley went from graduate school to building a regenerative farm from scratchWhy conventional chicken and pork now have a fatty acid profile closer to seed oils than real meatThe 100-year shift in dietary fats and what it's doing to human metabolismHow Nourish Food Club is reviving the farm cooperative model to support small farmersThe bureaucratic bullying small farms face daily - and why the system is designed against themTimestamps00:00 – Ashley's health crisis and path to farming06:30 – Building Angel Acres from scratch13:00 – Lessons from 12 years of competitive golf18:45 – How Nourish Food Club works26:00 – Why cheap and quality food can't coexist33:30 – The 100-year shift away from saturated fat42:00 – How corn and soy changed pork and chicken49:30 – Phytonutrients in pasture-raised meat56:00 – Why grocery labels are meaningless01:03:00 – The problem with indoor farming01:09:30 – Bureaucratic bullying and the jerky incident01:17:00 – Why small farm costs are structurally higher01:28:00 – Where consumers can startLinksWebsiteInstagramYouTubeRegenaissance YouTube ChannelAbout The Podcast: The Regenaissance Podcast explores the people, farms, and ideas rebuilding our food system from the ground up.
Did you know that agribusiness logic places emphasis on big yields while neglecting the value of small farms and gardens? Join Food Sleuth Radio host and Registered Dietitian, Melinda Hemmelgarn for her conversation with Andrew Flachs, PhD., Associate Professor of Anthropology at Purdue University, food and farming systems researcher, and author of Feeding the World as If People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields. Flachs continues his conversation in the second of a two-part interview on the benefits of smaller scale farming and home and community gardens, especially in times of crisis. He discusses his research into Cleveland Ohio's urban gardens, GMO vs. organic cotton in India, and home gardens in Bosnia. He is also the author of an Op-Ed in Civil Eats: “Facing Global Disruptions, Congress Should Invest in Local Food” https://civileats.com/2026/04/23/op-ed-facing-global-disruptions-congress-should-invest-in-local-food/ Related Websites: https://www.cla.purdue.edu/directory/profiles/andrew-flachs.html
In this episode, part-time farmer, part-time trucker Jared Sapach of Reuben's Roots discusses the relative lack of support for small, local farms compared to large conventional farms. 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.
The South Dakota Specialty Producers Association (SDSPA) is holding “Small Farms, Big Ideas” tours June 10, July 15 and July 29, 2026. In this episode of Agriculture In-depth, Peggy Martin with Cedar Creek Gardens at Midland invites people to come along and explore agricultural innovation firsthand through these unique tour opportunities. Each tour has a pre-registration deadline so SDSPA has an accurate count for lunch. The cost to attend is $16 per person and includes all-day bus transportation and a lunch. Guests should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and dress for the weather. Participants should be able to walk on uneven outdoor terrain. Full tour details and registration information can be found at https://sdspecialtyproducers.org/p/19106. Agriculture In-depth is brought to you by Kimball Livestock Exchange.
Did you know that the push towards efficiency is often a trap? Join Food Sleuth Radio host and Registered Dietitian, Melinda Hemmelgarn for her conversation with Andrew Flachs, PhD., Associate Professor of anthropology at Purdue University, and food and farming systems researcher. He discusses highlights from his new book, Feeding the World as If People Mattered: How Small Farms Produce Value Beyond Yields. To receive a discount, use the code AZFLR which gives 30% off from the press website (https://uapress.arizona.edu/book/feeding-the-world-as-if-people-mattered Related Websites: https://www.cla.purdue.edu/directory/profiles/andrew-flachs.html
Josh Bryceson sees The Good Acre food hub as a way to not only build markets for local vegetable producers, but to germinate the next generation of farmers (2 of 2 parts). More Information • The Good Acre Food Hub • LSP's Community-Based Food Systems Program • Ear to the Ground 399: Asking Why You can… Read More → Source
Jakub Kosmowski left a career in marketing to start the vegetable CSA farm Farma Wola in Poland. In this interview, he tells us how he adapted the marketing principles he used with Fortune 500 companies to develop a market for and sell CSA shares for his farm. Jakub tells us how any type of farm can use the four Ps of marketing- “product, place, price and promotion” to think about the big picture before putting effort into marketing. Then we compare the merits of the different marketing channels- email vs social media vs paid advertising- to decide which channels make sense for your farm and how to repurpose the same content across multiple channels. In the process we talk about how to avoid some of the mistakes that even big companies make with things like Super Bowl ads, and how to set realistic objectives for marketing campaigns. He has suggestions for how to fix campaigns that are getting good reach but not generating sales. Jakub tells us how he uses affiliate marketing with local businesses to drive CSA signups. We also discuss how and why it's important to think like your customer, and lots of other tips that will help you raise your marketing game this season! Connect With Guest: Website: jakubkosmowski.com farmawola.pl Instagram: @farmawola Podcast Sponsors: Huge thanks to our podcast sponsors as they make this podcast FREE to everyone with their generous support: There are a lot of farm sales platforms out there, but there's only one that's cooperatively owned by farmers. That's GrownBy — your all-in-one solution to simplify farm sales. GrownBy makes online farm sales easy and affordable; setting up your shop is free, and you only pay when you sell. Join over 900 farms who have already signed up for GrownBy, at grownby.com. BCS two-wheel tractors are designed and built in Italy where small-scale farming has been a way of life for generations. Discover the beauty of BCS on your farm with PTO-driven implements for soil-working, shredding cover crops, spreading compost, mowing under fences, clearing snow, and more – all powered by a single, gear-driven machine that's tailored to the size and scale of your operation. To learn more, view sale pricing, or locate your nearest dealer, visit BCS America. Farmhand is the virtual assistant built for farmers—helping CSAs scale sales, run error-free fulfillment, and deliver 5-star service. Whether you're at 100 members or 1,000, Farmhand helps you grow without burning out. You've heard us—and our farmers—right here on the Growing for Market Podcast. Explore more stories and learn more at farmhand.partners/gfm. Nifty Hoops builds complete gothic high tunnels that are easy to install and built to last. Their bolt-together construction makes setup straightforward and efficient, whether it's a small backyard hoophouse, or a dozen large production-scale high tunnels- especially through their community build option, where professional builders work alongside your crew, family, or neighbors to build each structure -- usually in a single day.Visit niftyhoops.com to learn more. Farming is hard. Running it shouldn't be. Tend helps you plan your season, map your farm, and track every task from seed to sale. No spreadsheets, no guesswork, just seamless workflows. Tend is the all-in-one farm management platform that brings together planning, field mapping, fulfillment, real-time inventory, sales, labor, traceability, and accounting in one easy platform. Built for small market gardens, CSAs, and large diversified farms. Get started with a free account at Tend.com. No credit card required. If you grow for market, you know performance is everything. That's why so many farmers are turning to Burpee's Farmers Market. Dedicated to professional growers, Burpee is now offering non-GMO seeds in larger quantities – bred and selected for standout flavor, strong yields, and the kind of visual appeal your customers crave. Burpee's been doing this for 150 years, and they're still creating new varieties with growers like you in mind. You can check out the full lineup at Burpee.com/FarmersMarket. Subscribe to our magazine- all new subscriptions include a FREE 28-day trial!
Advocates for small-scale farmers and for people facing food insecurity are both pushing the state for more funding as federal cuts hit hard on all sides of the farm-to-table supply chain.
We'll look at the government's food price inflation forecast for the year, broken down by categories. The government's definition of a “small farm,” and their challenges. The challenge to control pests under the new Sustainable Pest Management philosophy. Farm stress and mental health—some tips to help reduce that stress and keep farmers healthy. Legislation to help U.S. cotton farmers.
#266: Three farmer-owners of Brisa Ranch lay out a practical answer to a big question: how can small farms survive in a marketplace built for consolidated buyers and consolidated distribution? Their approach is to become “small farms as distributors” by pairing production with aggregation, cold storage, sales, and last-mile delivery through the Coastside Local Food Hub in Pescadero, California. A Real Organic Project certified farm, Brisa Ranch manages about 120 acres and grows vegetables and fruit on about 45 acres each year, with green manures, cover cropping, and beneficial plantings woven into their system. https://realorganicproject.org/brisa-ranch-small-farms-as-distributorsThe Real Organic Podcast is hosted by Dave Chapman and Linley Dixon, engineered by Brandon StCyr, and edited and produced by Jenny Prince.The Real Organic Project is a farmer-led movement working towards certifying 1,000 farms across the United States. Our add-on food label distinguishes soil-grown fruits and vegetables from hydroponically-raised produce, and pasture-raised meat, milk, and eggs from products harvested from animals in horrific confinement (CAFOs - confined animal feeding operations).To find a Real Organic farm near you, please visit:https://www.realorganicproject.org/directoryWe believe that the organic standards, with their focus on soil health, biodiversity, and animal welfare were written as they should be, but that the current lack of enforcement of those standards is jeopardizing the ability for small farms who adhere to the law to stay in business. The lack of enforcement is also jeopardizing the overall health of the customers who support the organic movement; customers who are not getting what they pay for at market but still paying a premium price. And the lack of enforcement is jeopardizing the very cycles (water, air, nutrients) that Earth relies upon to provide us all with a place to live, by pushing extractive, chemical agriculture to the forefront.If you like what you hear and are feeling inspired, we would love for you to join our movement by becoming one of our 1,000 Real Friends:https://www.realorganicproject.org/real-organic-friends/To read our weekly newsletter (which might just be the most forwarded newsletter on the internet!) and get firsthand news about what's happening with organic food, farming and policy, please subscribe here:https://www.realorganicproject.org/email/
In this episode, we sit down with Francisco Vio of ‘Huerto Cuatro Estaciones' farm in Chile, to explore the wild world of living and farming in remote Patagonia. From early mentors in Ecuador to building an organic farm at the edge of the world, Francisco shares how beauty, land stewardship, and community have shaped his choices. The conversation weaves together farming, conservation, and the influence of figures like Doug Tompkins who helped create some of the world's largest protected wilderness areas. Francisco reflects on how small-scale market gardening fits in to the vision and context of national parks and he reminds us that farming is not just a business, but a way of life; a beautiful way of life.Timestamps[6:45] A life-changing stay on an organic farm in Ecuador and the role of early mentors.[12:40] Discovering small-scale organic farming and the search for a meaningful way of life.[18:05] Doug Tompkins, conservation, and the creation of national parks in Patagonia.[26:30] Choosing to farm in extreme isolation and what it demands on a daily basis.[33:20] Living far from markets: logistics, importing tools, and building local solutions.[40:15] Farming as a cultural act: beauty, place, and community beyond productivity.[48:10] Why staying small matters and resisting the pressure to scale at all costs.[55:30] Learning from global farm visits and the value of traveling to stay inspired.[1:03:40] Parenthood, responsibility, and redefining success as a farmer.[1:11:55] Failure, long-term vision, and committing fully to a chosen path.[1:13:28] Rapid fire Q&A: books, advice to young farmers, food, and pivotal life decisions.SponsorsReal Organic Project: Get Involved. Get Certified. Join the movement to fight the co-opting of organic.Activevista: Specialised Tools and Seeds for Diversified Crop and Home GrowersMarket Gardener Institute: Join the Masterclass waiting list today!Links/ResourcesMarket Gardener Institute: https://themarketgardener.com Masterclass: https://themarketgardener.com/courses/the-market-gardener-masterclass Newsletter: https://themarketgardener.com/newsletterBlog: https://themarketgardener.com/blog Books: https://themarketgardener.com/booksGrowers & Co: https://growers.coHeirloom: https://heirloom.ag/The Old Mill: https://www.espaceoldmill.com/en/Follow UsWebsite: http://themarketgardener.com Facebook: http://facebook.com/marketgardenerinstitute Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarketgardeners Guest Social Media LinksFrancisco Vio:Website: https://huertocuatroestaciones.clInstagram: https://instagram.com/huertocuatroestaciones Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/huertocuatroestaciones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@huertocuatroestaciones5844 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/105164245 JM:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeanmartinfortierFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeanmartinfortier
As floods, droughts, and heat waves rise, growers face make-or-break seasons with an insufficient safety net. Learn more at https://www.yaleclimateconnections.org/
Farmers are used to the idea of fertilizing with manure, however one species' output is usually not used: our own. This is despite the fact that effluent from water treatment is a large contributor to excess nitrogen in our waterways and the nutrient pollution that's responsible for the “dead zone” in the Gulf of Mexico. If we could recapture those nutrients, not only could it give farmers a cheap, readily-available source of fertility, but it would reduce the amount of pollution going into our waterways.Our three guests this week just finished a SARE grant project looking at using urine as a fertilizer. Tatiana Schreiber and Abe Noe-Hays are from the Rich Earth Institute, and Deborah Aller is at Cornell University, and on this week's podcast they tell us what they learned looking at the soil health impacts and farmer perspectives on using various forms of human waste and control treatments for fertilizer. They tell us what products they used, how farmers can make use of them, and how this technology might be scaled up in the future. Connect With Guest:Website: richearthinstitute.orgInstagram: @peecyclers Podcast Sponsors: Huge thanks to our podcast sponsors as they make this podcast FREE to everyone with their generous support: Since 1972 Ohio Earth Food has been the go-to source for soil testing, consulting as well as the highest performing and most cost effective granular and liquid fertilizers, seed starting soils, foliar sprays and disease and insect controls. All approved for use on organic farms. Start seeds in The Seed Catapult soil with mycorrhizae and put Re-vita Pro fertilizer in the soil before you plant. Learn more at ohioearthfood.com. There are a lot of farm sales platforms out there, but there's only one that's cooperatively owned by farmers. That's GrownBy — your all-in-one solution to simplify farm sales. GrownBy makes online farm sales easy and affordable; setting up your shop is free, and you only pay when you sell. Join over 900 farms who have already signed up for GrownBy, at grownby.com. Tired of breakdowns and not knowing if your old Farmall or Allis G will start? Consider the Tilmor Super E - the electric cultivating tractor built for market growers. With up to 8 hours of runtime, the Super E uses a 48-volt electric system that's quiet, easy to operate, and dependable. No gas, no noise, no constant repairs and cheaper to operate than a gas tractor. It delivers reliable power that reduces manual labor and keeps your crew motivated. Learn more and see the Super E in action at Tilmor.com. Farmhand is the virtual assistant built for farmers—helping CSAs scale sales, run error-free fulfillment, and deliver 5-star service. Whether you're at 100 members or 1,000, Farmhand helps you grow without burning out. You've heard us—and our farmers—right here on the Growing for Market Podcast. Explore more stories and learn more at farmhand.partners/gfm. BCS two-wheel tractors are designed and built in Italy where small-scale farming has been a way of life for generations. Discover the beauty of BCS on your farm with PTO-driven implements for soil-working, shredding cover crops, spreading compost, mowing under fences, clearing snow, and more – all powered by a single, gear-driven machine that's tailored to the size and scale of your operation. To learn more, view sale pricing, or locate your nearest dealer, visit BCS America. Nifty Hoops builds complete gothic high tunnels that are easy to install and built to last. Their bolt-together construction makes setup straightforward and efficient, whether it's a small backyard hoophouse, or a dozen large production-scale high tunnels- especially through their community build option, where professional builders work alongside your crew, family, or neighbors to build each structure -- usually in a single day. Visit niftyhoops.com to learn more. Subscribe To Our Magazine -all new subscriptions include a FREE 28-Day Trial
Truth Be Told with Booker Scott – Small family farms struggle as tariffs, rising costs, and unstable markets squeeze rural America. Relief funds offer temporary survival but expose deeper failures in policy and priorities. Government waste, foreign influence, and unchecked technology threaten independence and freedom. Protecting farmers, taxpayers, and personal liberty requires clear choices, accountability, and courage now...
The Land Podcast - The Pursuit of Land Ownership and Investing
Welcome to the land podcast, a platform for people looking to educate themselves in the world of land ownership, land investing, staying up to date with current land trends in the Midwest, and hearing from industry experts and professionals. On today's episode, we are back in the studio with repeat guest Nic Schaalma. We discuss: The speaker shares their journey of buying and managing multiple farms. They emphasize the importance of being close to home for hunting and land management. A strategy shift led to focusing on one larger farm instead of multiple smaller ones. The speaker discusses the challenges of improving deer quality in their area. They highlight the value of land management over simply hunting for big bucks. The conversation touches on the impact of market conditions on land prices. The speaker reflects on the importance of financial safety nets when investing in land. They discuss the risks of buying land with partners versus solo ownership. The speaker shares insights on the significance of land value and investment strategies. They encourage young buyers to seize opportunities when financially ready. And so much more! Get Pre-Approved to Purchase a farm with Buck Land Funding https://www.whitetailmasteracademy.com Use code 'HOFER' to save 10% off at www.theprairiefarm.com Massive potential tax savings: ASMLABS.Net -Moultrie: https://bit.ly/moultrie_ -Hawke Optics: https://bit.ly/hawkeoptics_ -OnX: https://bit.ly/onX_Hunt -Painted Arrow: https://bit.ly/PaintedArrow
The Power Hour is a weekly podcast that discusses the day's most interesting energy and environmental policy issues with top national experts. Jack welcomes entrepreneur, media personality, and small farmer Elaine Culotti to the podcast this week. You might know Elaine from Discovery's Undercover Billionaire or her real estate adventures, and now you will get […]
The Power Hour is a weekly podcast that discusses the day's most interesting energy and environmental policy issues with top national experts. Jack welcomes entrepreneur, media personality, and small farmer Elaine Culotti to the podcast this week. You might know Elaine from Discovery's Undercover Billionaire or her real estate adventures, and now you will get to know her as a rancher and farmer. Jack and Elaine have a wide ranging and light hearted discussion on everything from how to better get farm fresh food to more Americans to how she become of our nation's most successful entrepreneurs. You can learn more about Eliane and her many projects at elaineculotti.com and follow her on Instagram @lipstickfarmer. As always, you can join the conversation at thepowerhour@heritage.org! Check out Jack's book, Nuclear Revolution, and our nuclear energy documentary, Powering America . Thank you for listening and please don't forget to subscribe and help us to spread the word.
Welcome to episode 272 of Growers Daily! We cover: small farming versus disasters, cardboard as a mulch, and when what you do looks bananas to your neighbors. We are a Non-Profit!
A single contamination can have serious consequences for vulnerable populations, such as students. Traceability is essential to ensure food safety from the farm to the school cafeteria. In this episode, Jim White, President and Co-Founder of ENSESO4Food, and Candice Bevis, Farm Operations Manager at Spartanburg County School District 6, explain how digital traceability simplifies FSMA 204 compliance and strengthens confidence in the food supply chain. They discuss how affordable technology and GS1 standards help small farms operate with the same precision as large suppliers, connecting farms, processors, and cafeterias for a safer food system. In this episode, you'll learn: How to ensure accountability in food sourcing and delivery Why simplicity and affordability matter for technology adoption Ways schools are using visibility to improve food safety Things to listen for: (00:00) Introducing Next Level Supply Chain (04:22) How the Trakkey partnership began (07:59) Connecting farms, processors, and schools (12:33) How digital tools simplify compliance (18:03) Teaching students where their food comes from (20:56) Making food safety simpler for farmers (23:31) Reducing waste and improving efficiency (26:32) Jim and Candice's favorite tech If you're interested in becoming or working with a GS1 US solution partner, please visit AccuGraphix's website. Connect with GS1 US: Our website - www.gs1us.orgGS1 US on LinkedIn Connect with the guests: Jim White on LinkedInCheck out ENSESO4Food and Spartanburg County School District Six
Welcome to episode 258 of Growers Daily! We cover: what to do if your farm was previously a car lot, should compost operations just start a farm instead, and why it's hard to scale back a farm without losing money. We are a Non-Profit!
For small farms, staying afloat can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope.
Recent data from the US Department of Agriculture demonstrates the important role small farms play in our food system. Mike Davis has more.
This Soil Sisters podcast features Austin Frerick, an author and expert on agriculture and antitrust policy, discussing his book 'Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry.' The conversation unpacks many complexities of the American food system and solutions to break free from the current model. Austin emphasizes the power of our voices to usher in substantial food system reform through local and institutional channels like schools and hospitals, to rekindle traditional farming practices, and create resilient agricultural communities. MEET OUR GUEST: Austin Frerick is an expert on agricultural and antitrust policy. In 2024, he published his debut book, entitled Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry. The book, which includes a forward by Eric Schlosser, profiles a series of powerful magnates to illustrate the concentration of power in the global food system.Frerick previously worked at the Open Markets Institute, the U.S. Department of Treasury, and the Congressional Research Service before becoming a Fellow at Yale University. He is a 7th generation Iowan and 1st generation college graduate, with degrees from Grinnell College and the University of Wisconsin, Madison. He also serves on the Board of Directors as Vice President for Common Good Iowa and as Treasurer for the Socially Responsible Agriculture Project. In 2022, The Advocate named him a "Champion of Pride.” He has been quoted in The New York Times, National Geographic, Bloomberg, Politico, Vanity Fair, and The Washington Post, among others.TIME STAMPS:00:00 Welcome to Soil Sisters Podcast00:45 Introducing Austin Frerick01:18 The Broken Food System02:22 The Importance of Traditional Farming03:23 Challenges in the Food Industry09:19 The Walmart Effect13:32 The Power of Local Grocery Stores21:07 The Impact of Checkoff Programs30:25 The Ethanol Debate34:12 The Farm Bill and Subsidies: Who Really Benefits?35:16 The Monopoly on Chicken Genetics and Its Consequences36:06 The Decline of Family Farms and Worker Conditions37:36 The Impact of Monocropping and GMO Feed on Livestock41:32 The Problem with Food Labels and Organic Standards43:00 The American Food System vs. European Models46:08 The Role of Government and Industry in Food Quality48:52 The Future of Farming: Regenerative Practices and Policy Changes 01:04:06 The Illusion of Choice in the Food Market01:07:02 Struggles of Minimum Wage Workers01:08:25 The Hidden Costs of Convenience Foods01:08:56 The Dollar General Dilemma01:10:00 The Decline of Slaughterhouse Towns01:13:49 The Exploitation in Chicken Farming01:16:50 The Rise of Cisco01:22:12 The Importance of Local Food Systems01:24:28 The Impact of Poor Quality Food01:28:23 The Problem with Cheap Imports01:35:56 The Power of Passionate Industry Leaders01:36:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Local food banks are about to lose a key source of fresh, local produce after the Department of Agriculture ended the Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program or LFPA. The program was a key source of revenue for small, local farms that played a major role in keeping people fed during the pandemic. Links: Small Farms Fed the Bay Area During COVID. But Now Face Federal Cuts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today, Clancy talks with Stuart Tanner, award-winning documentary filmmaker, investigative journalist, and writer, about his latest film, Seeds of Sovereignty. You won't want to miss their conversation about his latest documentary, Seeds of Sovereignty, and the global battle over genetically modified corn in Mexico. They explore the battle over genetically modified corn in Mexico, the dangers of monoculture farming, and why protecting native seeds is essential for biodiversity, nutrition, and cultural heritage.
In this episode of the Mission Whitetail Podcast, Joe is joined by Kris Seymour, owner of SeymourBucks Outfitters and BeOutdoors Real Estate. They dive into purchasing land in Kansas for whitetail hunting, how to find and evaluate the right hunting property, and what the process looks like for non-residents trying to get tags in top-tier states like Kansas. Kris shares insights from his years as both an outfitter and real estate agent. If you've ever considered buying hunting land or investing in whitetail property out of state, this is a must listen. Subscribe to Mission Whitetail for more conversations on bowhunting, land ownership, and whitetail strategy. #huntingland #whitetailhunting #kansashunting #bowhunting #outfitting #realestate #seymourbucks #beoutdoors #missionwhitetail #huntingproperty #buyingland #whitetaildeer #kansasdeerhunting #deertags #huntingpodcast
From Episode #203: "Joel Salatin vs. John Klar Showdown: Should Tax Dollars Be Taken from Big Ag and Given to Small Farmers?"Find John HERE: https://johnklar.substack.com/Access the FULL Episode HERE: https://beyondlabels.supportingcast.fm/Follow on InstagramFollow on XSubscribe on RumbleSubscribe on YouTubeFind Joel Here: www.polyfacefarms.comFind Sina Here: www.drsinamccullough.comDISCLAIMER
California's small farmers are used to tough seasons. But this year, they're not just battling drought or the rising costs of maintaining their farms. Small farmers say President Trump's reconciliation bill could make it even harder to stay in business. Reporter: Madi Bolanos, The California Report More dads in California are taking paid leave to care for a new child. Reporter: Elly Yu, LAist Transgender rights advocates are pushing back against a federal lawsuit filed Wednesday, contesting a California law that protects trans athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the latest episode of the collaboration between Yale's Economic Growth Center and VoxDev, host Catherine Cheney discusses one of Africa's most persistent development challenges: the low productivity of smallholder farmers. Despite decades of investment, innovation, and policy reform, yields on African small farms remain significantly below those in high-income countries. While the limitations of smallholder models, that doesn't mean that the problem is easy to solve, not least because the way that land is owned my make consolidation impossible. The result: fewer opportunities for structural transformation and rural development. Catherine is joined by Gérardine Mukeshimana, former Minister of Agriculture in Rwanda, Christopher Udry of Northwestern University and Mark Rosenzweig of Yale University.
With small farms making up the majority of U.S. agriculture, the American Farm Bureau Federation is pushing for policies that protect family-run operations. As California farmers face mounting challenges, new USDA attention could bring much-needed support.
Trevor Corboy is the current Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator for OSU Extension Brown County. Trevor resides in Brown County with his wife Rachel on his family's which was establish in the 1850's farm. Here he is active in raising Angus cattle, Boer and Nubian goats, hay, and grain products. Trevor currently provides leadership as […]
We'd love to hear from you about this episode.Food is one of the foundational components of human existence that unites us all.Whether food is part of our social and cultural interactions, part of our recreation or hobbies, or to simply survive… we need it to be at our best. We all eat.But do you know where your food comes from?Humans began farming independently in various world regions around 12,000 years ago. This shift from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to agriculture is considered one of the most significant transitions in human history. In cultures worldwide, farmers have been revered as some of our most important citizens. But small farmers are facing threats of never-before-seen proportions. What will it mean for our health and wellness if we lose those who feed us?Welcome to Episode Sixty-Three of the Nature of Wellness ™️ Podcast!!! In this episode, we spoke with Dana DiPrima, founder of the For Farmers Movement, a dedicated advocate for small farmers, and the host of the One Bite is Everything podcast on Heritage Radio Network. With a corporate leadership and grassroots activism background, Dana brings a strategic, solutions-driven approach to conversations about food and farming. She believes that food is more than just what's on our plates—it's a powerful force shaping our health, communities, environment, and economy.Join us as we discuss Dana's personal journey with nature, how she became an “accidental farmer,” the challenges that small farmers face, and our detachment from our food. Dana discusses the For Farmers Movement, which provides grants to help small farms manage modern demands and how buying local helps strengthen communities. This conversation taught us how to plant the seeds of change, nurture and grow them, and harvest them when the time is right.Please subscribe, rate, and leave a review anywhere you listen to this podcast. We appreciate you all.Be Well-NOW ™️ www.instagram.com/xoxofarmgirl/www.forfarmersmovement.comwww.thelocalfoodchallenge.com https://venmo.com/u/forfarmersmovement (for $1 donations or a $7 latte!* The unbelievable Shawn Bell produces the Nature of Wellness Podcast, making us sound good.** The NOW theme song was penned, performed, produced, and provided by the dynamic duo of Phil and Niall Monahan. *** This show wouldn't exist without our amazing guests and all of you who listen. Please like, subscribe, follow, and review to help us get these important messages out to more folks who can benefit from them. Thank you all.
Recent federal government budget and staffing cuts imposed by the Trump administration and Elon Musk's so-called Department of Government Efficiency are having devastating impacts in dozens of areas, but one that's received less attention than it probably deserves is agriculture. As journalist Kevin Hardy of the national news outlet Stateline reported recently, the administration […]
Federal water rules may be easing. Farm groups respond to Make America Healthy Again. Farm Bureau president sounds the alarm at the loss of farms in California. Capitol Ag Day brings a huge turnout to learn about farming and food. Nebraska's farmer governor has advice for other states to protect agriculture.
Imagine a world where food isn't just a commodity, but a connection to community, sustainability, and hope. In this powerful episode, we're diving deep into the heart of America's food system with Austin Frerick, author of Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry.Meet Austin Frerick: Champion of Food JusticeMore than just an author, Austin is a passionate advocate for transforming our agricultural landscape. His groundbreaking book Barons isn't just research—it's a rallying cry for anyone who believes that how we grow our food matters. Critically acclaimed by Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, his work shines a light on the hidden stories behind our food systems.Inside the Conversation: What You'll DiscoverThis episode is a must-listen for anyone who:Cares about where their food comes fromWants to support small farmersBelieves in building stronger, more resilient communitiesSeeks to understand the real story behind our food supplyWe'll explore:The personal journey that inspired BaronsHow big corporations are reshaping farming in rural communitiesThe truth behind agricultural "efficiency"Practical ways to support local food systemsStrategies for rural economic resilienceWhy This Matters to YouAs farmers, mothers, community builders, and conscientious consumers, we have the power to create change. Austin's insights offer a roadmap for reimagining agriculture—not just as an industry, but as a vital part of our shared community ecosystem.Sponsored by BloomBoxes from Late Bloomer RanchFuel your family's meals with purpose! Our BloomBoxes deliver ethically-raised, nourishing pork directly to your doorstep. Every box is a statement of support for regenerative, community-focused farming.Together, we can cultivate a future where food connects, nourishes, and empowers.Your voice matters. After listening, we'd love to hear your thoughts: Subscribe to The Soft Focus Podcast Leave a review Share your insights Connect with us: hello@latebloomerranch.com IG@latebloomerranch
A conversation with Laimonas Noreika, founder of HeavyFinance, about providing loans to farmers, bringing innovation to the traditionally stagnant agri-loan sector (some numbers: over €70M loaned to farmers and over 13,000 individual investors have invested through them). The profitability of regenerative agriculture isn't just a theory—it's backed by hard data from hundreds of thousands of hectares across Eastern Europe. According to Laimonas, the financial case for regenerative farming methods is compelling, showing roughly 20% higher profits compared to conventional approaches, even without factoring in potential carbon credit revenue.Traditional banking institutions have created a €60 billion annual financing gap for small and medium-sized European farms, which means we need institutional investors. Some, like the European Investment Fund, have invested through HeavyFinance. And why aren't banks stepping in? Because small farmers don't fit their criteria well. So, we need new fintech solutions and scale. Despite agriculture presenting lower default risks than many other industries, banks avoid these loans because of regulatory requirements that penalize them when farmers experience seasonal payment delays. This financing gap has slowed the transition to more sustainable and profitable farming methods, particularly in Eastern Europe's breadbasket regions where soil organic carbon levels have plummeted from approximately 150 tons per hectare historically to just 30 tons today.HeavyFinance bridges this gap with an innovative approach: providing interest-free loans to farmers transitioning to regenerative practices, particularly for purchasing no-till seeders and implementing cover cropping systems. Instead of charging interest, they take a percentage of future carbon credits generated by improved farming practices. This creates a powerful incentive system where farmers access needed capital without interest payments while simultaneously improving soil health, reducing input costs, and increasing crop resilience.More about this episode on https://investinginregenerativeagriculture.com/laimonas-noreika.==========================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 76 of Growers Daily! We cover: What are “Beneficials” REALLY, Hydroponics for Small Farms? And the conferences within farm conferences ‼️ Hiring—Produce/Editor Application: https://forms.gle/vnbTTv24NHw52duj8 Links from this episode: The Ky hydro farm that shut down: https://apnews.com/article/appharvest-indoor-farming-bankruptcy-martha-stewart-0a32f971f0901510b2de30353b1e0457 Abrupt declines in global fresh water https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/153608/global-freshwater-abruptly-declines MUSIC TODAY "We Got Something to Talk About" by Alight the Night via https://www.epidemicsound.com Support our work (
Kerry Lutz and Brian Reisinger discussed the challenges small family farms face, particularly due to government regulations and increasing compliance costs, which are exacerbated by tight profit margins, especially for Amish farms. They highlighted the rising consumer demand for organic and healthy food as a potential opportunity for farmers to pivot towards more profitable crops, while emphasizing the need for a stronger local food movement and regional economies to facilitate this transition. Reisinger pointed out that the traditional food system is struggling to provide affordable food due to rising prices and supply chain vulnerabilities, worsened by the concentration of food production. He noted that technology could either support small farmers or marginalize them further, advocating for scale-neutral technology that benefits farms of all sizes. Reisinger concluded with optimism about the potential for nearly 2 million small family farms to succeed if provided with appropriate entrepreneurial opportunities. Find Brian here: https://www.brian-reisinger.com Find Kerry here: https://financialsurvivalnetwork.com and here: https://inflation.cafe
Welcome to episode 60 of Growers Daily! We cover: It's feedback Friday + Modeling Farms Off Ecological Systems + Tariffs and Small Farms Links from this episode: Tariffs and farmers: https://www.theguardian.com/business/2024/dec/30/farmers-trump-tariffs Collab podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-collaborative-farming-podcast/id1570007965?i=1000682307661 Josh's Course: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLhRvDbqclpaKG2pYidQ3P2U0sPcY-5I2 Cornell Small Farming Course: https://smallfarms.cornell.edu/online-courses/ Article with Earl Butz Quote 1972: https://www.nytimes.com/1972/04/16/archives/up-up-up-butz-makes-hay-down-on-the-farm-butz-makes-hay-down-on-the.html?searchResultPosition=1 Support our work (
Farmer Joel Salatin discusses the solutions to making farming provide more food at a higher nutritional density with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in this episode. Now with video.