Podcasts about Soil science

Wildfire smoke can harm your plants - what can you do about it? Should you eat the food from your garden?

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode bids farewell to Funchess Hall, where Auburn turfgrass grew its roots. For many members of the Alabama Turfgrass Association, just hearing the name Funchess Hall brings back a flood of memories. Maybe it was hustling to class with a cup of coffee in hand, late-night study sessions before a soils exam, or learning turfgrass management from professors whose lessons still shape your career today. Funchess may never have won awards for beauty, but for generations of Auburn turfgrass students, it was something far more important — home. Since 1961, Funchess Hall served as the heart of Auburn University's Turfgrass Science program. Although the turfgrass program was already more than three decades old when the Department of Agronomy and Soils moved into the then-new Funchess Hall, over the next 65 years it grew into one of the South's premier turfgrass education programs. Auburn graduates manage golf courses, athletic fields, sod farms and landscapes across Alabama and beyond. Inside those well-worn classrooms and laboratories, students learned everything from weed science and irrigation design to soil morphology and turfgrass pest control. More importantly, they built friendships, professional connections and memories that lasted long after graduation. Now, the end of an era has arrived. This summer, the Departments of Crop, Soil and Environmental Sciences, Horticulture, and Entomology and Plant Pathology are officially moving out of the “infamous” Funchess Hall and into Auburn University's brand-new STEM + Agricultural Sciences Complex. As of late May, faculty and staff are packing decades' worth of research data, teaching materials and Auburn history into boxes, preparing for a full transition by August 1st. Once renovations to Comer Hall are complete in Fall 2026, the demolition of Funchess Hall will be scheduled. Fittingly, the move is happening during the quiet of summer semester — one of the few times campus slows down enough to reflect on the past while preparing for the future. And what a future it is. Auburn's new $224 million STEM + Agricultural Sciences Complex is a stunning 265,000-square-foot facility located at 305 W. Samford Ave (part of the former Hill Residence Hall site). The three interconnected buildings will house departments from both the College of Agriculture and the College of Sciences and Mathematics, creating opportunities for collaboration unlike ever before. The new facility includes state-of-the-art research laboratories, modern teaching laboratories, collaborative student spaces, teaching gardens and even specialized research areas for aquatic animals and insects. For turfgrass students, it represents a major investment in the future of the industry and the continued growth of Auburn's nationally respected program. Of course, while the building may change, the Auburn Turfgrass Management program remains rooted in the same hands-on philosophy that makes it special in the first place. Students pursuing the Turfgrass Management track still earn a B.S. in Crop and Soil Science while gaining practical experience from internships and the Auburn Turfgrass Research Unit just a mile from campus. They'll continue learning the science and management principles needed to become leaders in the turfgrass industry throughout the country. But now students will be based at one of the most advanced agricultural teaching facilities in the Southeast. For alumni, there is a lot of nostalgia in saying goodbye to Funchess Hall. Those green tile walls, aging classrooms and scuffed floors told a story of hard work, tradition and learning. But Auburn has always been about more than bricks and mortar. The spirit of the turfgrass program — the people, the passion and the Auburn Family — is moving right along with it. So while Funchess Hall may be a distant memory soon, its legacy will continue to grow in every superintendent, sports turf manager, researcher and industry professional who once called it home. And somewhere inside that shiny new building, another generation of Auburn turfgrass students is about to start making memories of their own. The departments moving from Funchess Hall to the new buildings are planning a “Farewell to Funchess” celebration on campus during the fall 2026 semester. Watch alumni mailing lists and social media for more information as details are worked out. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X, Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. The post Farewell to Funchess Hall, Where Auburn Turfgrass Grew Its Roots appeared first on The Turf Zone.

A new veterinary hospital is coming to one of OSU's most visible agricultural sites, but the crop research Oklahoma producers rely on is not going away. OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences head Wade Thomason, Ph.D., joins Dave Deken, Brian Arnall, Ph.D., and Josh Lofton, Ph.D. to explain what is changing at the Agronomy Research Station, which long-term plots will be protected, and why good soil, irrigation, and proximity to campus cannot simply be replaced. They also walk through plans for new greenhouses, field laboratories, teaching space, soil and forage testing, plant disease diagnostics, and a possible summer 2028 move. Key takeaways: The historic Magruder Plots and other long-term fertility trials are not planned for development. The veterinary hospital is expected to use the area where the current agronomy buildings stand. Approximately 20 to 50 acres of other research ground may need to be replaced nearby. New facilities could bring wheat breeding, crop quality testing, field research and diagnostic services into a more efficient system. The modernization is designed to improve research, hands-on student education and service to Oklahoma producers. Detailed timestamped rundown 00:00–01:54 — Episode setup and field event invitation Dave introduces the debate over the Agronomy Research Station, the veterinary hospital project and the future of research and teaching at the site. He also previews the July 27 Summer Crop Demo Day near Chickasha.01:54–02:32 — Participant introductions Brian Arnall and Josh Lofton are introduced before the recorded conversation with Wade Thomason begins.02:32–04:18 — What is happening to the agronomy farm? The group addresses months of concern and confirms that the veterinary hospital is expected to occupy the footprint where the existing agronomy buildings stand.04:18–05:59 — Are the Magruder Plots safe? The long-term fertility trials are identified as irreplaceable scientific resources. The discussion makes clear that the Magruder Plots and other longstanding trials have not been offered for development.05:59–08:29 — Why agronomy cannot simply move anywhere Thomason explains the requirements for productive research ground: proximity to campus, student access, suitable soil, little slope, a location outside the floodplain and dependable irrigation supplied through the OSU water system.08:29–10:12 — Why the plots must remain near campus The station supports hands-on classes, weed identification, breeding programs, frequent crop observations and technologies such as drone imagery. Moving those activities farther away would reduce efficiency and student access.10:12–12:29 — The original farm layout had a purpose The group explains how soils, slope, wind direction, water and animal needs shaped the placement of agricultural programs. The land was not assigned randomly.12:29–14:45 — Prime real estate and agricultural history Dave describes the corner as emotionally significant to people connected with OSU agriculture. The group acknowledges that reaction while explaining the university's effort to create room for both agronomy and veterinary medicine.14:45–17:03 — The rebuild is three connected projects Plans include a greenhouse and headhouse complex, new agronomy research operations and an education and laboratory center. Wheat breeding, wheat pathology, Extension, turfgrass and ornamental horticulture are among the programs discussed.17:03–19:13 — New homes for producer services The proposed education center could include classrooms, conference space, the Soil, Water and Forage Analytical Laboratory and the Plant Disease and Insect Diagnostic Laboratory. Both laboratories currently face significant space and access limitations.19:13–22:14 — Proposed locations and the 2028 target The conversation covers possible locations on the existing sheep and goat property, the likely order of construction and the need to move agronomy operations before the existing buildings can be removed. The target is summer 2028.22:14–23:43 — Learning from other land-grant universities The planning team studied facilities at Kansas State, Purdue, Nebraska, Texas A&M, Georgia and Tennessee to identify useful designs and avoid problems those institutions encountered.23:43–27:22 — Designing around the work, not old walls The proposed greenhouses may have less total square footage but greater usable capacity through rolling benches, better lighting and ventilation. Other improvements include a pull-through seed warehouse, integrated wheat quality space, improved cotton processing, chemical storage and shared drying and grinding areas.27:22–31:27 — Shared space, compromises and adaptation The faculty discuss the benefits and frustrations of shared work areas. Some programs may gain more than others, but the experience of OSU's newer Agricultural Hall suggests shared facilities can improve communication and the student experience.31:27–34:34 — Balancing program needs and limited space The conversation continues into how researchers will adjust their workflows, which needs must be prioritized and how the new construction will affect existing research acreage.34:34–35:57 — How much land could be displaced? The working estimate is approximately 20 to 50 acres. Options include nearby purchases, existing OSU land and other research sites; the department does not expect to replace the entire 185-acre main station.35:57–37:09 — Other research locations and sheep facilities Land near Perkins and a university property east of Billings could provide additional research opportunities. The project may also accelerate plans for a new sheep and goat facility.37:09–39:09 — State funding and possible federal support The episode describes a $40 million legislative allocation tied to a $10 million OSU match. The team also plans to pursue a federal research-facilities grant of up to $30 million, which could bring the potential project budget near $80 million. The federal award was not guaranteed at the time of recording.39:09–41:42 — Private support and practical details Previously pledged greenhouse support is discussed as part of OSU's match, followed by lighter conversation about equipment, refrigerators and the research team's preferred ice machine.41:42–43:36 — A working name and final thoughts The group closes with the working name “Agronomy Research Discovery Center,” thanks Wade for the update and directs listeners to Red Dirt Agronomy for future information. RedDirtAgronomy.com

Most of us walk across soil every day without giving it a second thought, but beneath our feet is one of the most complex ecosystems on Earth. Bernice Richard, a biochemist, Cornell University Advanced Soil Health specialist, GHG auditor, published children's book author, and recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal, joins Tamara to talk about launching The Soil Academy and why she believes Saskatchewan is the perfect place to inspire the next generation of soil scientists.

Learn the proper way to flush potted plants to keep your greenery healthy and remove excess salts. It can save your plant!

Stop believing common African violet myths. Learn the truth about caring for your plants and avoid these frequent mistakes. Grow more flowers!

With input costs remaining high and profit margins under pressure, producers are increasingly looking for ways to improve productivity without simply adding more fertilizer, more irrigation, or more crop inputs. In this episode of North American Ag Spotlight, host Chrissy Wozniak sits down with Chad Godsey, Chief Agronomist at Green Evolution Technologies, to discuss how growers are evaluating new technologies, why efficiency has become the new benchmark for success, and how innovations at the soil and root level may help unlock future yield gains.Chad brings a unique perspective to the conversation, combining a PhD in Agronomy and Soil Science with a lifetime of farming experience on his family's multi-generational Colorado farm. He shares how his work as a consultant across more than 100,000 acres has shaped his views on technology adoption and why today's farmers are demanding proven, measurable results before investing in new products.The discussion explores how growers are increasingly conducting their own on-farm trials to validate new technologies and why return on investment has become the deciding factor in purchasing decisions. Chad explains that while farmers have been inundated with new products in recent years, many are now focused on technologies that can consistently improve water-use efficiency and nutrient-use efficiency rather than simply promise yield increases.A major focus of the episode is Green Evolution Technologies' InteliGel hydrogel platform. Chad explains how the technology works by absorbing and storing water and nutrients within the soil profile, making them available to crops during periods of stress. He discusses how the hydrogel can be applied using existing farm equipment, reducing barriers to adoption while fitting into current farming practices.The conversation also dives into field trial results from corn and soybean production systems. Chad shares data from third-party research that demonstrated significant yield improvements and profitability gains, particularly during periods of late-season drought stress. He also discusses the potential for multi-year benefits from a single application, an important factor when evaluating long-term return on investment.Listeners will hear Chad's perspective on the challenges facing ag technology companies, including the common mistake of bringing products to market before they have been fully validated across different environments and management systems. He offers practical advice for growers evaluating new products, emphasizing the importance of establishing clear benchmarks and measuring efficiency improvements over time.Whether you're interested in water management, nutrient efficiency, precision agriculture, or the future of crop production, this episode offers valuable insights into how innovative technologies are helping farmers do more with less while maintaining profitability.Learn more about Green Evolution Technologies and InteliGel by visiting https://greenevolutiontechnologies.com, or send Chad an email with your questions to chad@hydrogel.us.Thank you to Chad Godsey for joining us on North American Ag Spotlight and sharing his expertise on the future of agricultural productivity.Send us Fan MailEcorobotix, together with DFS Finance & AgDirect, is making it easier for growers to access the ARA Ultra High Precision Sprayer. Flexible purchase and lease programs offer competitive rates, deferred payments, and end-of-term options, helping farms cut inputs, reduce labor & boost profitability without straining cash flow. Learn more HERESubscribe to North American Ag at https://northamericanag.com

What is really in a bag of compost? I was surprised when I read the labels.

Discovering Plants with Healing Powers with guest Ava Long, Clinical Herbalist and Owner, Floral Botanical Medicine Greek physician Hippocrates is attributed with saying “Nature is the best physician.” Herbalism is the study and practice of using plants for medicinal, therapeutic, and health-promoting purposes.Ancient Greek herbalism helped form the foundation of modern herbal medicine and the emphasis on the balance between nature, health and philosophy. Every plant seems to have its own special healing superpowers, and a relatable story to tell. Clinical herbalist Ava Long shares her story and her approach to herbal science. Ava Long is the owner of Floral Botanical Medicine, a health and wellness practice. Her diagnostic approach incorporates live blood microscopy to uncover root causes of chronic health concerns. She develops individualized herbal protocols for detoxification and for restoring balance and achieving optimal health. Ava has trained at various institutions, including the Boston School of Herbal Studies, where she also serves as an adjunct professor. She is also the founder of Maine Sea Greens, a seaweed food product combining her passion for herbalism and seaweed. Through her work, she helps others benefit from ancient holistic practices alongside modern technology. Note: Roughly 30 percent of the global population is at risk for iodine deficiency. Symptoms of iodine deficiency include unexplained weight gain, chronic fatigue, cold sensitivity, dry skin, thinning hair, and enlarged thyroid gland. Seaweed, the best natural source of iodine, is an excellent herbal and dietary addition for supporting thyroid health, regulating blood sugar, and providing antioxidant protection. Seaweed should, however, be consumed in moderation to avoid excess iodine. INFORMATION RESOURCES Learn more about Floral Botanical Medicine - https://www.floralbotanicalmedicine.com/about Read the Floral Botanical Medicine Membership Agreement -https://www.floralbotanicalmedicine.com/member-agreement Explore Live Blood Microscopy - https://www.floralbotanicalmedicine.com/live-blood-microscopy Shop Maine Sea Greens - https://www.meseagreens.com/ Follow on Instagram @maineseagreens Email hello@maineseagreens.com   Find The Angel Heart books by Wendy Nadherny Fachon The Angel Heart storybook https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Wendy-Nadherny-Fachon/dp/1967270279/ The Angel Heart: Teacher's Lesson Plan: 33 Literacy Lessons to Help Grow the Whole Child - https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Teachers-Literacy-Lessons/dp/1971180556/ The Angel Heart: Student Activity Workbook https://www.amazon.com/Angel-Heart-Activity-Workbook-Activities/dp/1971180564/   Learn more about the Story Walking Radio Hour at https://storywalking.com Reach Out to Wendy with Comments and Queries email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or text 401 529-6830 Join the Story Walking movement - https://storywalking.com/ Follow Story Walking on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/StoryWalkingRadioHour/ or Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/storywalkerwendy/   Related Episodes Growing Our Spiritual Connection with Nature with Asia Suler, herbalist https://dreamvisions7radio.com/spiritual-connection-nature/ Soil Science and Bionutrition with Dan Kittredge, Bionutrient Food Association -https://dreamvisions7radio.com/nature-as-teacher/ Why Eating Organic is Crucial to the Future of the Planet with Zen Honeycutt, Moms Across America -https://dreamvisions7radio.com/eating-organic-crucial-future-planet/ Subscribe to Wendy's Substack to receive notifications of new podcast and product releases https://storywalkerwendy.substack.com/ Read about DIPG: Eternal Hope Versus Terminal Corruption by Dean Fachon begin to uncover the truth about cancer - https://dipgbook.com/ Learn more at https://netwalkri.com email storywalkerwendy@gmail.com or call 401 529-6830. Connect with Wendy to order copies of Fiddlesticks, The Angel Heart or Storywalker Wild Plant Magic Cards. Subscribe to Wendy's blog Writing with Wendy at www.wendyfachon.blog. Join Wendy on facebook at www.facebook.com/groups/StoryWalkingRadio

I've been growing vegetables for 50 years, and I just learned a much better way to grow cool-season crops. I'll never do it the old way again.

Welcome to The Turf Zone podcast. This episode features the article “Advancing Precision Weed Management in Turfgrass Systems with Machine Vision-Guided Targeted Spraying” Written by Brooke Heikkila – Graduate Research Assistant Navdeep Godara – Assistant Professor of Turfgrass & Forage Weed Science, Department of Crop and Soil Sciences, North Carolina State University and Pawel Petelewicz – Assistant Professor of Turfgrass Weed Science, University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, Agronomy Department Turfgrass managers are facing increasing weed challenges due to evolving regulatory framework and growing incidence of herbicide-resistant weeds. The release of the first turfgrass-specific commercial machine vision-guided sprayer (ALBA, Ecorobotix Inc.) enables automated and localized herbicide applications in turf. Although often referred to as “spot spraying” in marketing materials, “targeted spraying” is a more accurate description as it distinguishes this system from manual spot treatments and other existing precision weed management approaches. Such targeted application systems have already been successfully deployed in other crops using platforms such as the John Deere See and Spray, Agritech America WEED-IT, Verdant Robotics Sharp Shooter, Ecorobotix ARA. Using See and Spray technology, comparable weed control was observed between the broadcast and targeted spraying methods, but the targeted spraying reduced the treated acreage by up to two-thirds. In turfgrass, this technology not only offers significant herbicide savings but also opens the door for practitioners to combat herbicide-resistant weeds by incorporating alternative chemistries, including nonselective herbicides or herbicide tank mixtures combining multiple modes-of-action which are not typically feasible in broadcast applications. Overall, spot spraying is not a new concept, as many turfgrass managers already employ it to control weed escapes following broadcast herbicide applications or where selective chemistries are not an option. Manual spot spraying involves individuals walking the golf course or other turfgrass areas with a sprayer loaded with herbicide to make localized applications directly to weeds. Traditional spot spraying is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and requires applicators to accurately identify weeds, necessitating additional training and expertise. It ultimately increases application costs and is also prone to human error, often resulting in overapplication and missed weeds. However, targeted spraying systems such as ALBA, utilize artificial intelligence combined with machine vision to detect problematic weeds within turfgrass canopy in real-time to apply herbicides only to those small areas where individual weeds are present. ALBA is a tractor pull-behind unit that can operate at speeds up to 4.5 miles per hour and uses an enclosure to block ambient light and to create consistent lighting conditions to continuously scan the turfgrass canopy with its cameras to detect weeds. When a weed is spotted, an individual nozzle – one out of 108 – activates to directly target the weed with a 1.2 × 1.2-inch spray resolution per nozzle. As targeted application systems continue to advance and competing platforms emerge, it is critical to understand how to effectively integrate and leverage these sprayers within turfgrass weed management programs. Several preliminary field experiments using ALBA and its ARA-based predecessor research platform were conducted by the NC State Turfgrass Weed Science Program and the UF/IFAS Turfgrass Weed Science Program to understand the applications of this technology. Preliminary studies showed that machine-vision guided targeted spraying substantially reduces herbicide usage and treated acreage while maintaining weed control efficacy, offering both economic and environmental benefits while targeting wide variety of problematic weeds with high accuracy. Reduction in Herbicide Volume Used – In a study focused on controlling false-green kyllinga in bermudagrass fairways, machine vision-guided targeted spraying with ALBA reduced herbicide spray volume by 77% compared to broadcast treatments. False green kyllinga cover was 17% at the experimental sites during study initiation, triggering significant savings due to the weed-specific, localized targeted treatments compared to broadcast herbicide applications. Broadcast applications of standard kyllinga control products typically cost around $190 to $240 per acre, but targeted treatment can lower the cost by more than $145 per acre even when dealing with moderate level of weed infestation (~15% weed cover). Similarly, in another ongoing study, when annual bluegrass weed cover was 10% in bermudagrass fairways, targeted applications achieved a 66% reduction in herbicide spray volume compared to conventional broadcast treatments. Sulfonylurea herbicides for postemergence control of annual bluegrass cost around $140 to $185 per acre and targeted spraying can reduce the cost by at least $92 per acre when weed cover is 10% or less. Practitioners can expect greater savings at turfgrass sites with lower weed infestations, which are typical of intensively managed surfaces and when applying expensive herbicides such as PoaCure or organic herbicides during winter dormancy of warm-season turfgrasses. Targeted application system was also evaluated for control of broadleaf weeds, dallisgrass, smooth crabgrass, and tropical signalgrass in studies conducted independently or in collaboration between Mississippi State University, NCSU, Virginia Tech and UF IFAS, and observed a 53% to 95% reduction in spray volume. In all the aforementioned cases, weed control levels achieved with targeted spraying were no different from broadcast applications. Thus, these studies demonstrate that, across various problematic weed species, this novel application system can substantially reduce the herbicide volume required, lowering costs without compromising weed control efficacy. Lower Treated Acreage – During broadcast herbicide applications, substantial areas without weeds are often treated unnecessarily. Targeted applications can reduce the treated acreage, enabling practitioners to use herbicides such as MSMA, which are currently restricted to spot treatments on less than 25% of the total golf course acreage per year. Targeted spraying systems are particularly useful for herbicides with limited or no residual activity, as it allows localized treatments to weed instead of broadcast applications to turfgrass. Targeted spraying for false-green kyllinga control (17% weed cover) in bermudagrass fairways resulted in 85% reduction in treated acreage compared to broadcast spraying. In a similar study, an 80% reduction in treated acreage was found when only treating annual bluegrass in dormant bermudagrass at 10% weed cover. A study conducted by UF/IFAS Turfgrass Weed Science Program using circular, non-overlapping targets of varying patch sizes (4-10 cm diameter) to simulate random different weed densities and dispersions within the 1-20%, 21-40%, and 41-60% coverage, indicated total spray deposition of approximately 40%, 64%, and 74%, respectively. This corresponded to estimated herbicide savings of 60%, 36%, and 26%. Spray deposition increased with rising weed pressure, while the non-sprayed area, directly reflecting herbicide savings declined accordingly. These results confirm that variation in herbicide savings with targeted applications is driven primarily by weed density, with dispersion playing a secondary role, exerting stronger effects at low weed densities but negligible influence at higher densities. The reduction in treated acreage can potentially diminish the environmental impact of herbicides by minimizing overall pesticide load released into the environment, limiting off-target movement, reducing the risk of groundwater contamination, and lowering the risk of human exposure associated with pesticide applications. Targeted approaches permit treatment to a limited portion of turf, enabling the effective use of chemistries with area-use limitations. Effective reduction in area treated with targeted spraying will become increasingly important as new regulations come into effect, particularly in the context of upcoming Endangered Species Act-imposed changes. Therefore, research projects funded by the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina will focus on investigating the agronomic and environmental benefits of targeted application systems for managing problematic weed species. Alternative Herbicide Options for Resistance Management – Targeted spraying also enables selectivity at the sprayer level rather than relying only on selectivity of the herbicide used. This potentially allows turf managers to use nonselective herbicides that were previously not an option for broadcast treatment due to severe injury to actively growing turfgrasses. Broad spectrum herbicides like glyphosate, glufosinate, or flumioxazin are highly effective against a wide variety of weeds, but practitioners often wait for turfgrass to go dormant before spraying nonselective herbicides, while in some geographies, such as Florida, achieving full dormancy is not even possible. However, with this new technology, practitioners will have the option to incorporate nonselective herbicides year-round with minimal collateral damage to turfgrass. Glyphosate (Roundup Pro Concentrate) applied via broadcast application at 12 fluid ounces per acre rate reduced bermudagrass green cover significantly, but targeted spraying had similar level of green cover as nontreated plots as documented in our recent study. Likewise, glufosinate applied at 41 fluid ounces per acre (as Finale XL T&O) reduced bermudagrass cover drastically after broadcast application but had minimal effect on turfgrass after targeted spraying. Targeted spraying technology also allows use of novel admixtures that are not currently being used during regular turfgrass maintenance. Rotating or tank mixing herbicide from different modes of action are crucial for sustainable turfgrass management, as selection pressure for herbicide resistance continues to increase. For instance, practitioners can use tank mixtures of herbicides like pyridate + sulfentrazone or bentazon + halosulfuron + sulfentrazone for targeted spraying without compromising efficacy on false-green kyllinga. These novel admixtures contain multiple modes of action in a single application that could reduce selection pressure and combat herbicide-resistant kyllinga. Similar admixtures should be explored for the management of other herbicide-resistant or difficult-to-control weeds. Limitations – Like with any new technologies, there are limitations to consider when adopting a machine vision-guided sprayer. Currently, only one commercial unit (ALBA by Ecorobotix Inc.) is available, providing managers with a single option for this turfgrass-specific targeted spraying technology. Additional machine vision-guided sprayers need to be developed specifically for turfgrass systems, as interest in these technologies among turfgrass managers continues to grow and the needs across different turfgrass industry segments will vary. The cost of the equipment and the annual model subscription will be a major barrier for many turfgrass managers. Offering incentives, such as reduced subscription fees for the first few years, could help increase adoption of this technology. Alternatively, with ALBA being an example of a high-end solution maximizing performance and system sophistication, other developers may consider trade-offs to reduce equipment production and maintenance costs to improve accessibility. Although ALBA seems to demonstrate high detection accuracy on key problematic weeds, further research is needed to understand its year-round performance, considering changes in visual characteristics of weeds and turfgrass across growth stages and under varying environmental contexts. In our preliminary work, a few false positives occasionally led to herbicide applications to weed-free turfgrass. Also, we observed that in situations where weed presence (particularly grassy weeds) in the camera's path exceeded that of turfgrass, the detection system became confused, effectively reversing target and background and treating turfgrass instead of the weed. However, developers are actively addressing these shortcomings and performance of targeted applications systems by continuing to improve imagery databases, training and validation across diverse geographical regions and management contexts. There is no doubt that machine vision-guided sprayers will have a transformative impact on the turfgrass industry, however, extension efforts will be critical for adoption. Also, as this technology is still novel for turfgrass systems, ongoing research and development is critical to improve performance, reliability, and to meet industry needs. Among others, further research is needed to evaluate performance under varying travel speeds, expand applications to targeted residual treatments, and refine application thresholds to maximize herbicide savings. Authors acknowledge the Turfgrass Council of North Carolina for sponsoring ongoing research projects focused on leveraging targeted application devices for weed management in NC turfgrass systems. The authors also thank Ecorobotix Inc. for providing a commercial unit for evaluation. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X, Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. Visit www.theturfzone.com for more. The post Advancing Precision Weed Management in Turfgrass Systems with Machine Vision-Guided Targeted Spraying appeared first on The Turf Zone.

Are you confused about nitrogen levels for your tomato plants? Don't make the same mistake as your fellow gardeners.

"Putting the Soil Health Principles to the Test in Iowa, USA" with Dr. Marshall McDaniel and Hillary Olson Soil health principles can help guide farmers in best practices for long term soil health and improvement. However, it's important to test these principles across locations and contexts to see how their implementation is actually shaping soil health. In this episode, Marshall and Hillary join me to discuss testing the soil health principles in Iowa and how this might be expanded into further regions. Tune in to learn: ·        What the soil health principles are ·        Which soil health indicators are fast or slow movers ·        Why it's difficult to weight soil health principles ·        What future research is yet to be done If you would like more information about this topic, this episode's paper is available here: https://doi.org/10.1002/saj2.20761 This paper is always freely available. Contact us at podcast@sciencesocieties.org or on Twitter @FieldLabEarth if you have comments, questions, or suggestions for show topics, and if you want more content like this don't forget to subscribe. If you'd like to see old episodes or sign up for our newsletter, you can do so here: https://fieldlabearth.libsyn.com/. If you would like to reach out to Marshall, you can find him here: marsh@iastate.edu If you would like to reach out to Hillary, you can find her here: hillary.olson@usda.gov Resources CEU Quiz: https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning-Center/Courses/Course-Detail?productid={599CC6CF-E055-F111-BEC7-0022480A5E44} Transcripts: https://www.rev.com/app/transcript/NmEwZWZmOWI2MGY5M2E0NzIxNzBhMzk0N3dEdVNTQTJSZlpW/o/VEMwNzE0NTg0MjI2  NRCS Soil Health website: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/natural-resource-concerns/soil/soil-health In field soil health assessment: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/conservation-basics/soil/soil-health/soil-health-assessment McDaniel lab: https://www.soil-plant.com McDaniel lab X: https://x.com/Soil_Plant_IXNs McDaniel lab Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/soil-plant.bsky.social McDaniel Lab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soil-plant-ixns/ Soil Health Institute: https://soilhealthinstitute.org/ Maximum water holding capacity with a DIY method: A simple, affordable, do-it-yourself method for measuring soil maximum water holding capacity. Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 55(8), 1190-1204. Permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC) study: Permanganate oxidizable carbon reflects a processed soil fraction that is sensitive to management. https://doi.org/10.2136/sssaj2011.0286 A Soil Owner's Manual: How to Restore and Maintain Soil Health by John Stika: https://www.amazon.com/Soil-Owners-Manual-Restore-Maintain/dp/1530431263 Teaming with Microbes by Jeff Lowenfels and Wayne Lewis: https://www.amazon.com/Teaming-Microbes-Organic-Gardeners-Revised/dp/1604691131 Field, Lab, Earth is Copyrighted by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and Soil Science Society of America.

Is your tap water suitable for your houseplants? What about pH, hard water, chlorine, fluoride, and lead?

Does expanded shale improve the diggability of clay, or increase plant growth?

Welcome to the latest episode of Growing Minds. In this episode, we're moving away from our traditional format, to preview what's coming for the new school year - audio revision notes— made for second-level students who want to study smarter, not harder. In this short teaser, we're giving you a taste of what's coming: quick, focused audio notes that breaks down key topics into simple, memorable points designed to support your exam preparation. In this episode, Agri Aware's Agricultural Science Co-ordinator Roisin Byrne will focus on Soil Science, Grassland Management & Agricultural Economics. We surmise the key points on soil pH and how it affects crop growth, rotational grazing and boosting grass production, right through to understanding farm costs and profit. Answers to the quiz go to www.ifj.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gardeners are increasingly interested in using wool. This video explores its use as a soil amendment, an organic fertilizer, a mulch, and a slug control.

This is a much better way to propagate African Violets from leaf cuttings. This is easier and faster than using water.

Could you grow your own food on the moon? Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O'Reilly sit down with Kevin Espiritu, the gardening YouTuber behind Epic Gardening, to dig into backyard farming, the future of sustainable food, and what it would actually take to feed yourself on Earth or anywhere else. NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can listen to this entire episode commercial-free here:  https://startalkmedia.com/show/homesteading-on-the-moon-with-kevin-espiritu/ Thanks to our Patrons Show more11:17 PMClaude responded: Raime Dayton, Giulian Minichiello, Peggy C, Pamela Knab, Randy Gladney, George Lett, Madeline Belton, Lio, Nick White, Michael, Shiwam Bandhoe, Catherine Spale…Raime Dayton, Giulian Minichiello, Peggy C, Pamela Knab, Randy Gladney, George Lett, Madeline Belton, Lio, Nick White, Michael, Shiwam Bandhoe, Catherine Spale, Lori Largent, Newton T, M.K, Louis Stern, Justin Maly, Andrew Kagan, Jeff, Robin Green, Boris Bayerman, Joe Verstraete, Jakob Ludwig, Eric Monley, Paul Kulessa, Rich C, Ben Davenport, User101010111010, Ian C, Dereck Wood Sr, Brittany Cloud, William Santiago, Randall Price, EvieJoy, Aaron Bailey, Shiva Kumar, Kenny Watts, Jayden Sundar, Maggie Ruh, Farruh Mahamadjanov, João Costa, Alex & Alicia Celcis, Prajesh Patel, Armando Luna, Chris Kessinger, Deon Johnson, Father Bills' Glue Gun Baptism, Nic Hoover, Jonny Porto, Noah Race, Nikita Mikhailevich, MichelleEcume, Janet La Valley, Myriam Robichaud, Lilly Carrillo, Matthew Robinson, Mark Fremmerlid, Emilia D., Michael Giacchino, Jose Javier, Wishah, TIM, Alex Frias, DukeOfBees, Cherry Speicher, Joe, Chris Sinn, Michael de la Morena, Gina Rapp, Testcellman, Jay Valiano, Mara Long, Terry Burgess, Matthew Ross, Jacob Keeling, Leah, Alex, Michael Neal, Lauri Boyd, Wes Ward, Antonio Westphalen, Chris Hopper, Malzerath, Anita Bowers, Antonia Staikova, Glenn Thomas Stokdal, Y K, Alexander Simone, Dot, Chris,

This video clarifies the relationship between corn gluten meal, a common pre-emergent for lawn care, and gluten sensitivity. We also discuss general gut health and what gluten really is.

Sean and Andrew are back with Purdue University's Dr. Daniel Quinn to discuss the importance of keeping the fundamentals as the foundation when growing high-yield corn.   The crew discusses: ✅ The importance of the fundamentals of growing corn ✅ Interactions between genetics, inputs and management practices ✅ Trends in nutrients and fertilizers ✅ How to keep plants healthy late into the season ✅ The impact that cover crops can have on weed control ✅ Common stressors that need to be taken more seriously   Meet the Guests:

Are you confused about the right tomato fertilizer for your plants? Use the right one and produce more tomatoes.

Welcome to The Turf Zone Podcast. This episode features the article “What's New with Wetting Agents” written by Michael Fidanza, Ph.D., Stan Kostka, Ph.D. and Tom Malehorn Soil surfactants are commonly called “wetting agents” in the turfgrass industry, and there are many, many wetting agent products in today's turf market. In 2012, the USGA Green Section article — Understanding the different wetting agent chemistries — advanced our understanding of these products in a logical manner. Another good article on wetting agents also appeared in the USGA Green Section — Factors to consider when developing a wetting agent program. Both of those articles and more can be found at: https://tinyurl.com/4f2v8m8r. Recently, wetting agent categories were proposed in a further attempt help the end user understand their chemical properties: https://tinyurl.com/ywyexm4x. Overall, in golf course and sports turf management, wetting agents are employed to improve infiltration, mitigate water repellency (i.e., hydrophobic conditions), and enhance hydration in soils and rootzones. Wetting agents also are useful for enhancing certain soil directed pesticides, improving flushing of excess salts, indirectly helping turf survive the winter, and improving spring green-up and recovery. Retainers versus Penetrants? The marketing of some wetting agent products can lead one to believe there is precise knowledge of clearly definable modes-of-action, that specific desired outcomes under diverse environmental conditions can prescribe how and when they should be applied, that soil responses can be turned on and off simply by changing what product is applied, or that product “X” can dramatically influence a specific turfgrass surface condition or expectation. These sorts of questions have only been researched on a handful of products. Researchers at the University of Arkansas, University of Wisconsin, Michigan State University, and the University of Wageningen (Netherlands) have demonstrated that certain wetting agents can increase soil water content under droughty conditions, and lower soil water content during periods of excessive rainfall. Keep in mind, most of these results come from turf growing on sand or sandy loam rootzones. Does this mean those wetting agents tested are physically “holding onto” (retaining) water in the rootzone, or “pushing” (penetrating) water through the rootzone? Our soil physics colleagues would question that statement. The terms retainer and penetrant are not listed in the soil science terminology, but these terms are used to market wetting agents. Data remain lacking on the nature and differentiation of products sold as “wetters”, “water retainers”, and “penetrants”. There are many claims based on reports-from-the-field or on misperceptions or misinterpretations of visual observations. When considering a wetting agent ask for thorough, documented, replicated field research (either from university or industry researchers). A recent article in the USGA Green Section provides further insight into this topic: O'Brien, D., Fidanza, M., Kostka, S., and Richardson, M. 2023. Penetrants vs. Retainers: Understanding Wetting Agent Clamins and the Science Behind them. USGA Green Section Record. https://www.usga.org/content/usga/home-page/course-care/green-section-record/61/issue-10/penetrants-vs–retainers–understanding-wetting-agent-claims-and.html Over the past two decades, wetting agents have moved from products applied to correct localized dry spots to broader applications in water management, however, marketing claims often outpace the science. Research continues to build upon our understanding of what wetting agents can and cannot do. Understanding the mode-of-action, effects on soil physical phenomena, and effects on soil biology and rhizosphere dynamics are the future. A foundation is being built to support science-based uses of these unique soil amendment compounds. Conclusion Soil surfactants or “wetting agents” lead the way for sustainable water use and water conservation practices on U.S. golf courses. Recent research has quantified beneficial effects of using wetting agents, with more work in progress. The marketing terms “retainer” and “penetrant” are not soil science terms. Ask to see research-based information when considering a wetting agent product. Research efforts are underway in the U.S. and Europe that will increase our understanding of how wetting agents affect turf rootzone physical, chemical, and biological properties. Dr. Mike Fidanza (maf100@psu.edu) is a Professor of Plant and Soil Science at the Berks Campus, Pennsylvania State University, Reading, PA; Dr. Stan Kostka (stan.kostka@gmail.com) is a Visiting Scholar at Penn State Berks Campus; Tom Malehorn (intlturf@gmail.com) is a Penn State turf alum and principal scientist with iGin Research, in Westminster, MD. You have been listening to The Turf Zone Podcast. Follow The Turf Zone on X, Facebook and LinkedIn for all things turfgrass, featuring podcasts, magazines, events and more. Visit www.theturfzone.com for more. The post What's New with Wetting Agents appeared first on The Turf Zone.

“Prankster” hardly does Dom Joly justice. He's been a diplomat, a linguist, a traveller, a broadcaster, a writer and lots more besides.Walter Iuzzolino is the "Walter" behind Channel 4's Walter Presents series. A man who probably watches more TV from more countries than anyone else on the planet.Dr Jaqueline Stroud, Professor of Soil Science at Warwick University, likes nothing better than eavesdropping on worms.And we hear the Inheritance Tracks of the actor and star of The Pitt; Noah Wyle.Presenter: Adrian Chiles Producer: Ben Mitchell Assistant Producer: Catherine Powell Researcher: Jesse Edwards Editor: Glyn Tansley

Sean and Andrew sit down with Purdue University's Dr. Daniel Quinn to talk about what takes corn from average to high-yielding.   The crew discusses: ✅ The diversity of Purdue's corn research efforts ✅ Using variable rate technology for optimal corn planting depth ✅ How weather conditions impact young corn plants ✅ Pros and cons of cover crops ✅ The biggest factors for corn success  ✅ The importance of grain fill   Meet the Guests:

Organic is one of the most misunderstood words. Discover the truth behind the term "organic" and what it really means.

The real secret is the microbes. In part 3 of this soil course, you will learn how you can harness the power of microbes to grow plants.

This video, part two of a three-part course, discusses nutreints and explains the real value of "organic matter," covering aspects like slow vs. fast release, "soil structure," and CEC.

Growing better plants starts with the soil. This video, part one of a three-part course, focuses on creating healthy soil, which is crucial for overall plant growth.

What is organic honey, and does it really exist? The answer will surprise you.

Leah Weatherill, Head of National Agriculture with BMO Commercial Bank in Canada, is joined by Kate Congreves, Jarislowsky and BMO Research Chair in Regenerative Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan. Their conversation explores regenerative agriculture as both a scientific approach and an ethical framework for farming, touching on soil health as the foundation of agriculture, the vital role of nitrogen in food production, and the challenge of balancing productivity with environmental stewardship. Congreves explains how regenerative agriculture goes beyond a checklist of practices to reflect deeper values about reciprocity between people and the land.   Visit https://commercial.bmo.com/en/ca/industry-expertise/agriculture/ to learn more about how the company supports the agriculture sector through all cycles. Learn more about BMO's recent Green Bond, the proceeds of which will be used to support sustainable food and agriculture, as well as renewable energy and green building projects: https://newsroom.bmo.com/2026-03-16-BMO-Issues-Green-Bond-to-Finance-Renewable-Energy,-Green-Buildings-and-Sustainable-Agriculture-Projects BMO also supported critical research into regenerative and digital agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan: https://commercial.bmo.com/en/ca/insights/bmo-donates-2-million-university-saskatchewan-accelerate-research-critical-future-food/

Composting produces CO2. Is it causing global warming? Which composting method is best for the environment?

I compared Fish Fertilizer with Miracle-Gro. The results will change the way you fertilize seedlings and houseplants.

Send a textIn this fascinating episode of The GIG Podcast, host James Cronk sits down with Parker Cohn, founder of Performance Resource Management and self-described "Soil Surgeon," to explore one of the most overlooked and under-utilized assets on any golf course: the soil beneath our feet.Parker's journey from mechanical engineer to soil biology pioneer is as compelling as the results he delivers. Drawing on his passion for water conservation and public health, Parker has developed a regenerative soil management approach that helps golf facilities achieve up to 40% less water use, 60% less fertilizer, and 90% fewer pesticides, without sacrificing playing conditions. In fact, conditions often improve.The conversation covers the science behind biological soil health, why decades of commercial agriculture have degraded soil biomes, and how reintroducing the right microorganisms can reverse compaction, reduce runoff, and dramatically improve water efficiency. Parker also shares a powerful case study involving 22 million gallons of water saved in a single season and explains how golf facilities can build proactive relationships with their water utilities before rates skyrocket or restrictions hit.The episode closes with Parker's vision for the future of precision agronomy, where data-driven decisions replace calendar-based habits across every area of club operations.Whether you're a superintendent, GM, or owner, this episode will change how you look at what's growing under your turf.To learn more about Golf Industry Guru, and to gain access to online golf business education from the world's most successful business, golf, & hospitality industry leaders, visit us at www.golfindustryguru.com.

Do you know where your food comes from? Most of us buy and consume food every single day without understanding who grew it, how it was raised, or what the labels actually mean. What if the fear driving your grocery store decisions is based more on marketing than reality?On this episode of Salad With a Side of Fries, Jenn Trepeck welcomes fifth-generation dairy farmer and environmental scientist Tara Vander Dussen of Discover Ag Podcast and Discover Ag TV for a grounded, no-nonsense conversation about the food system, family farms, organic versus conventional choices, and how consumers can make smarter decisions without the overwhelm. From antibiotic use in dairy farming to the truth about grass-fed beef, water recycling on modern farms, and the impact of imports and tariffs on local agriculture, this episode reframes the conversation and replaces fear with facts.What You Will Learn in This Episode:✅ How the food system is divided between agriculture and big food, and why understanding that distinction helps you shop smarter and reduce unnecessary food fear✅ What the organic label actually means as a farming practice, and how conventional dairy farming maintains strict quality and safety standards that often go unrecognized✅ Why most cattle in the United States spend the majority of their lives on pasture, and what the real difference between grass-fed and grass-finished beef means for your plate✅ How sustainable farming practices like water recycling, on-site veterinarians, and cattle nutritionists reflect a level of animal care and environmental responsibility that rarely makes it into the public conversationThe Salad With a Side of Fries podcast, hosted by Jenn Trepeck, explores real-life wellness and weight-loss topics, debunking myths, misinformation, and flawed science surrounding nutrition and the food industry. Let's dive into wellness and weight loss for real life, including drinking, eating out, and skipping the grocery store.TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Breaking down the differences between agriculture and the food industry06:17 Understanding pesticides, glyphosate, and bio-engineered crops as tools in the farmer's toolbox09:13 Why food labels shifted from consumer information to marketing, and how to shop by personal values14:29 The truth about factory farms versus family farms and why 98 percent of dairies are family owned19:10 Conventional dairy quality: antibiotic protocols, testing standards, and why milk is one of the most tested products in the food supply chain25:45 How animal welfare and farm transparency have improved, and the water recycling system on a dairy farm is explained step by step29:29 Grass-fed versus grain-fed beef unpacked and why most cattle spend two-thirds of their lives on pasture36:42 How tariffs and global markets affect dairy farming prices and why grocery store milk prices can mislead38:57 The complicated relationship between consumer demand, imports, exports, and the modern food supplyKEY TAKEAWAYS:

How does humidity affect plants, and how do you give them the correct humidity? A lot of online advice does not work.

Find out why your seeds are not germinating. The content focuses on troubleshooting germination problems.Seed Course Part 1: https://youtu.be/OcRqTvP2H6o&list=PLq7hmpP9i05Ska3k7gaBCvNCT9gN_tYajSeed Course Part 2: https://youtu.be/gKKhB7aTa6o&list=PLq7hmpP9i05Ska3k7gaBCvNCT9gN_tYaj

This program discusses the pervasive issue of microplastics, and introduces genetically modified organisms (GMOs) as a potential solution. It explains recent discoveries by scientists.

In this episode of The Crop Science Podcast Show, Dr. Nicholas Shay from the University of Georgia explores grain production and how integrated grain systems support productivity in challenging environments. He discusses corn, soybean, grain sorghum, and small grains management, along with crop rotation value, disease pressure, and infrastructure considerations. Dr. Shay shares practical strategies to improve efficiency using existing resources and support long-term sustainability. Listen now on all major platforms!"Disease pressure is by far one of the biggest challenges we face in southern grain production."Meet the guest: Dr. Nicholas Shay earned his PhD and MS in Crop and Soil Sciences from the University of Georgia and serves as an Assistant Professor and Extension Grains Agronomist based in Tifton, Georgia. His work focuses on corn, soybean, grain sorghum, and small grains systems, emphasizing integrated strategies, efficiency, and long-term sustainability in southern production systems. Liked this one? Don't stop now — Here's what we think you'll love!What you will learn:(00:00) Highlight(01:14) Introduction(06:59) Research and extension program(10:29) Rotation challenges(13:24) Rotation value(18:44) Planting windows(23:56) Grain sorghum insights(27:36) Final three questionsThe Crop Science Podcast Show is trusted and supported by innovative companies like:- KWS

Introduction to growing orchids, drawing on my over 40 years of experience as an orchid grower. Learn how to grow orchids effectively, covering essential tips for growing orchids, including growth patterns and fertilization. You'll gain valuable insights into orchid care and growing orchids at home, complete with a Q&A session.

Determine whether frozen vegetables or fresh ones are more nutritious. The answer will save you money.

This video examines carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in various everyday situations, comparing them to natural outdoor levels and discussing potential health implications.

Kale is not the superfood everyone claims, but you can get more nutrients from it if you prepare and eat it correctly.

Science has taught this old dog a new trick for growing better orchids. Change your pot for healthier roots and more flowers.

We examine the effectiveness of salt-free water softener systems compared to traditional salt-based units. Should you consider replacing your current water softener with a salt-free alternative?

This is a short-form episode featuring Natalie Sturm, pulled from our recent interview and focused on one of the most important—and often overlooked—drivers of soil health: crop rotations.We're launching these short-form episodes to better serve our audience. Instead of listening to a full 60–90 minute conversation, you can now jump straight into the most valuable insights—practical, research-backed takeaways you can apply immediately.In this segment, Natalie explains why the tillage vs. no-till debate misses the bigger picture. Drawing from her research at the Dakota Lakes Research Farm, she shares how two side-by-side no-till fields—managed with the same equipment and soil type—can perform completely differently based on rotation history alone. The difference shows up not just in yields, but in soil structure, organic matter, and resilience.For the full interview with Natalie, please stream the long-form episode here.Natalie Sturm didn't grow up in agriculture—she's originally from suburban Chicago. Her early concern for climate, biodiversity, and human health led her to Montana State University, where she earned a B.S. in Agroecology through the Sustainable Food and Bioenergy Systems program.She went on to complete her M.S. at South Dakota State University, studying long-term no-till crop rotations at Dakota Lakes Research Farm. Her thesis demonstrated that rotation diversity, small grains, cover crops, and livestock are key to improving soil quality and yields—not just no-till.Natalie is currently pursuing a Ph.D. at Washington State University, where she studies the effects of cropping systems on soil compaction in the Palouse region. In 2025, she will return to Dakota Lakes as its new Research Farm Manager.

Monarch butterflies have a special connection with milkweed plants. We examine the science about how they find milkweed so that you can plan your garden to be more beneficial for monarchs.

Dr. Caitlin Youngquist started out wanting to be a veterinarian, but then discovered soil science and was so taken by it that she got a PhD, and has devoted her career to serving farmers, ranchers, and rural communities. A practitioner and promoter of regenerative agriculture, she has worked with Conservation Districts, non-profit orgs, Extension, and her own small business, Dirt Works Wyoming, a company that provides compost statewide. She uses science as a tool to solve on-the-ground problems, which range from crops and livestock issues to mental health, family dynamics, and food insecurity. She also guides hunting programs for women, is a volunteer firefighter. TIMELINE 2'22 how Caitlin discovered agriculture and soil science 3'33 the value of applied science for solving real problems 4'23 what is Extension 4'52 the non-elitist focus of extension, taking academic research to the people 6'54 how extension actually works 8'40 food insecurity and food deserts in an agricultural state, starting a food garden 11'30 making sure initiatives last beyond their founder 13'17 taking the holistic/social work perspective as an extension educator 14'39 people get isolated on their farms 16'31 the importance of letting go of a scarcity/competition mindset and sharing knowledge 18'28 difficulty making generational transition of management 20'12 the difficulty in calling for help with family conflicts 22'17 the difference between complicated and complex systems 24'59 analogies between soil health and community health 27'17 efficiency vs resiliency 29'37 the one nation that feeds itself has high biodiversity and regenerative ag 30'21 making sure local food is not an elite activity 32'40 becoming a hunter 34'21 why hunting is so powerful for women in particular 40'05 whether hunting supports species conservation 42'29 compost company Dirt Works Wyoming 44'14 agriculture and soil science as a great career for young people to consider 45'47 drcaitlinyoungquist.com

In this solosode of The Energy Code, Dr. Mike unveils the most comprehensive update yet to BioLight's flagship supplement — BioBlue — and takes listeners deep inside the quantum bioenergetic thinking that shaped its redesign. What began as a methylene-blue-based mitochondrial catalyst has evolved into a next-generation longevity systemintegrating deuterium-depleted water, elevated NMN, taurine, and trace gold-silver resonance compounds.   Dr. Mike breaks down the science and reasoning behind each refinement: why Litewater's 10 ppm deuterium-depleted water now forms the clean matrix for all BioBlue liquids, how NMN has been increased ten-fold (10 mg → 100 mg) to meaningfully expand NAD⁺ pools and drive biogenesis, and how taurine stabilizes mitochondrial membranes and calcium signaling for endurance and resilience. He explains the subtle yet powerful tweaks — like a 50 % increase in colloidal gold and silver and a 40 % reduction in fulvic acid — that sharpen redox coherence and enhance longevity signaling.   Dr. Mike dives into: Overview of how BioBlue progressed from a simple methylene-blue solution to a full mitochondrial optimization system. Why all BioBlue liquids now utilizes Litewater for cleaner proton flow and improved ATP efficiency. Why NMN increased from 10 mg → 100 mg per dose to meaningfully raise NAD⁺ levels, drive biogenesis, and enhance DNA repair. Why the addition of Taurine – 100 mg per serving for membrane stability, calcium regulation, and long-term mitochondrial resilience. Enhanced Trace Elements – 50 % more colloidal gold & silver plus refined fulvic acid for smoother redox flow and higher photodynamic efficiency.   This episode isn't just about formulation — it's about why every molecule matters in the pursuit of mitochondrial efficiency, redox stability, and long-term cellular youthfulness. Mike also previews BioLight's upcoming new website, pre-Black-Friday event, and a soon-to-launch BioBlue Lite product line for those seeking simplicity without compromise.   Key Topics Covered Evolution of BioBlue — from the original methylene blue + NMN formula to a comprehensive mitochondrial optimization system. Integration of Deuterium-Depleted Water (Litewater, 10 ppm) — explanation of how lowering deuterium enhances ATP production, redox efficiency, and longevity potential. NMN Upgrade (10× Increase) — new 100 mg per serving dosage for boosting NAD⁺ levels, mitochondrial biogenesis, DNA repair, and energy metabolism. Addition of Taurine (100 mg per serving) — supports membrane integrity, calcium balance, ROS buffering, and cellular longevity signaling. Enhanced Colloidal Gold & Silver (50 % Increase) — improved redox stability, electron flow, and photodynamic synergy with methylene blue and red light. Refined Wu Jin Sun Fulvic Acid (−40 %) — optimizes redox balance and mineral transport while improving synergy between all active compounds. Comprehensive Mitochondrial Benefits — improved ATP efficiency, autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis for cleaner, more resilient energy production. New Product Lineup — introduction of BioBlue Lite and BioBlue Leuco Lite (simplified methylene blue + water versions) for accessible mitochondrial support. Key Quotes from Dr. Mike   “Deuterium-depleted water doesn't just make the mitochondria go faster—it helps them run truer, cleaner, and more efficiently.”   “We've moved BioBlue from a trace metabolic nudge to a real mitochondrial optimization protocol that supports redox cycling, biogenesis, and longevity pathways in a quantifiable way.”   “Taurine turns BioBlue from a fast-acting energy compound into a cellular longevity stack—supporting repair, recycling, and resilience.”   “By increasing colloidal gold and silver within their optimal bio-signal zones, BioBlue transforms from a chemical redox supplement into a biophysical energy transducer.”   “Each change — from Litewater to taurine — was made to help your mitochondria run longer, cleaner, and more accurately. This is longevity through bioenergetics.” Episode Timeline 00:00 – Announcements: Pre-Black Friday + new website 04:00 – The origin of BioBlue and its evolution 10:00 – Introducing the upgraded BioBlue formula 11:00 – Why BioLight partnered with Light Water 12:00 – How deuterium slows mitochondrial ATP production 17:00 – Functional benefits of deuterium-depleted water 19:00 – 10x increase in NMN for energy and repair 27:00 – Synergy between NMN and methylene blue 30:00 – Adding taurine for stability and longevity 39:00 – Increasing colloidal gold for photonic synergy 46:00 – Boosting colloidal silver for redox protection 52:00 – Why lowering fulvic acid improves coherence 56:00 – What's next: BioBlue Light + legacy pricing offer 01:02:00 – Dr. Mike's closing thoughts on mitochondrial optimization Resources & References Deuterium Depletion and Mitochondrial Efficiency Boros, L. G. Deuterium Depletion and Cellular Bioenergetics. Frontiers in Oncology (2020). Sagalevsky, V. — Light Water: The Science of Deuterium-Depleted Hydration (interview referenced in episode).   Nicotinamide Mononucleotide (NMN) & NAD⁺ Metabolism Mills, K. F. et al. Long-term administration of NMN mitigates age-associated physiological decline in mice. Cell Metabolism (2016). Yoshino, J. et al. NAD⁺ intermediates: The biology and therapeutic potential of NMN and NR. Cell Metabolism (2018).   Taurine and Longevity Pathways Wang, W. et al. Taurine deficiency as a driver of aging. Science (2023). Schaffer, S. W. et al. Physiological roles of taurine in the heart and mitochondria. Journal of Biomedical Science (2010).   Colloidal Gold & Silver in Cellular Redox Systems Li, Y. et al. Gold nanoclusters enhance mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase activity. ACS Nano (2019). Kim, Y. S. et al. Silver nanoparticles exhibit SOD- and catalase-like activity for redox modulation. Nano Research (2020).   Fulvic & Humic Acids as Bioactive Redox Modulators   Senesi, N. Nature of humic substances and their interactions with trace metals and organics in the environment. Soil Science (1992). Wu Jin San extract — traditional Chinese “gold medicine” formulation known for enhanced mineral transport and detoxification support.     Additional Mentions PGC-1α, SIRT1/SIRT3, and Autophagy pathways in mitochondrial biogenesis and longevity. Quantum redox coupling and plasmonic resonance as mechanisms for light-driven bioenergetic optimization.  

Andrew Luzum—a farmer, conservation advocate, and strategic agronomist—to explore how traditional values and modern innovation can work hand in hand to sustain agriculture for generations to come.Andrew shares how his family operation, rooted near a trout hatchery in Winneshiek County, has made water quality and environmental responsibility central to their mission. Knowing that their farm directly impacts local waterways, Andrew emphasizes a personal commitment to stewardship: “We have a tremendous influence on the quality of water that comes out of those springs, and I feel a responsibility to do my part.”We also dive into Andrew's professional journey with Corteva Agriscience, where he's spent nearly a decade advancing through roles in crop protection, territory management, and now as a Nutrient Maximizer Strategic Account Manager. He explains how this role supports farmers in optimizing fertility efficiency, improving return on investment, and protecting soil health through science-based solutions.Listeners will hear about:How Andrew's upbringing on a diverse dairy and livestock farm shaped his leadership style and work ethic.His experience experimenting with cover crops and the lessons learned from integrating them into a working cow-calf and row-crop system.The link between data-driven agronomy and environmental outcomes, and how Corteva's nutrient maximizer tools are helping farms do more with less.His perspective as an Iowa Corn Animal Agriculture and Environment Committee member—bridging farmers, science, and policy.The episode closes with a reflection on what “profit” really means in modern agriculture: not just financial returns, but long-term resilience, cleaner water, and stronger rural communities. Want Farm4Profit Merch? Custom order your favorite items today!https://farmfocused.com/farm-4profit/ Don't forget to like the podcast on all platforms and leave a review where ever you listen! Website: www.Farm4Profit.comShareable episode link: https://intro-to-farm4profit.simplecast.comEmail address: Farm4profitllc@gmail.comCall/Text: 515.207.9640Subscribe to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSR8c1BrCjNDDI_Acku5XqwFollow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@farm4profitllc Connect with us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Farm4ProfitLLC/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.