Ag Proud - Idaho Podcast

Hemp, organics and GMO with Tim Cornie, 1,000 Springs Mill

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 19:14:57 +0000

Hemp, organics and GMO – 1,000 Springs Mill and Tim Cornie have their fingers in a lot of niche farm products. After their first year of growing hemp, Tim shares what went right, what went wrong and what he wants to improve. It’s not a fit for every farm, but it could be a value-added crop for many.

Follow 1,000 Springs Mills at 1000springsmill.com.

High-moisture corn and cover crops with Krein Farms in American Falls

Mon, 01 May 2023 20:23:42 +0000

Eight years and drought has taught Kryst Krein a lot with cover crop experimentation in American Falls, in addition to his high-moisture corn, potatoes and wheat rotations. To be a farmer you have to be a soil manager, Krein says. And soil organic percentage has drastically changed on his farm. Different tillage trials (strip-till, no-till or deep rip) have also brought a great deal of education and experience. Take advantage of his experiences before you try your own.

Wheelchairs in the show ring and on the farm

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 17:42:10 +0000

We all know someone who has broken a leg prior to showing an animal at the fair, or we know a grandparent who still wants to navigate the farm but has limited mobility, or perhaps it's a special needs child who wants to move from the sidelines into the show ring. Or maybe your farm is hosting a school group and need some mobility resources. Well now it’s possible. The Canyon County Fair introduced Bacon Buddies, who partnered with Mobility Action Rentals to bring show opportunities to wheelchair-bound kids. And they’d like to take this non-profit program all over Idaho – not just for fairs and show rings, but also for farm rentals.

What a great story from the Kreick family in Kimberly, who are behind this movement – you don’t want to miss this.

Contact Action Mobility Rentals at 971-563-6700

Facebook: Action Mobility Rentals

Instagram: actionmobilityrentals

What the heck is a Kootenai Classic?

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 18:32:30 +0000

Exposing local kids to national-level competition is the exciting goal at the Kootenai Classic, a non-profit organization that brings together several hundred animals to the Kootenai County Fairgrounds in Coeur d’Alene. This four-species (cattle, pigs, goats and sheep), two-ring show (two separate shows inside of one) helps kids understand one judge will see it differently from another on any given day. “It keeps you humble and can make your day at the same time,” says organizer Brian Taylor.

Follow Kootenai Classic here: www.kootenaiclassic.com

Facebook: @Kootenaiclassiclivestockshow

Northwest Seed

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 22:44:20 +0000

Did you know corn seed varieties only last about four years? Yeah! Who knew? That’s what our guests say – Clayton Nebeker and Greg Stanger from Northwest Seed. Would you like to know what’s on a seed dealer’s mind this spring? Here’s the short list: silage test plots, grain test plots, variety and day length fit for the producers’ areas, availability and prices. Gee, that list sounds familiar to Idaho producers, right? It’s pretty much the same thing that’s on producers’ minds. Maybe that’s because Clayton and Greg have both been farmers themselves, and they know what it’s like. Check out this podcast and see what’s happening in the seed world in 2023.

Super Idaho ag trivia

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 17:37:41 +0000

CSI ag students (Charlie Swan, Carson Simper, Wyatt Lloyd and Zane Barckholtz), Jaysa Fillmore (ag instructor) and Dale Cowger (farmer) joined us today for a fun round of Idaho ag trivia. Test your own knowledge – would you have guessed right about the counties with the most ag workers?

Follow the CSI Ag Department and CSI Ag Club on their social media accounts here:

https://www.facebook.com/CSIagdept

https://www.facebook.com/agclubCSI

@csiagdept (Instagram)

@csi_ag_club (Instagram)

Feeding straw, hay, cornstalks – what’s the right mix?

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 20:17:23 +0000

Oneida County Extension Educator Sawyer Fonnesbeck talks to us about animal nutrition, and the balance of feeding different forages to livestock. It all boils down to forage testing and what nutrition and fiber the feed contains compared with what the animal needs. If you need your hay tested, give him a call and he’ll get you pointed in the right direction.

Find out more about this here: www.uidaho.edu/extension/county/oneida

Idaho Cattle Women with Maggie Malson

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 22:02:57 +0000

Maggie Malson joins us today to talk about the Idaho Cattle Women and their activities to promote the beef industry in Idaho. She shares some trends the beef industry is seeing with direct-to-consumer marketing, but also the increasing input costs, and the population growth throughout Idaho. She encourages everyone in agriculture to actively educate and help newcomers understand why Idaho is so great.

Follow Idaho Cattle Women here:

idahocattlewomen.org

Facebook: Idaho CattleWomen

info@idahocattlewomen.org

Will Ricks – A hay producer in Jefferson County

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 03:47:42 +0000

Idaho Hay and Forage Association President Will Ricks joins us today on the podcast. Will raises hay for Idaho livestock, as well as for the export markets. Hay has become Idaho’s #2 field crop in 2022, edging past wheat for the first time. Will discusses how the association monitors legislation, watching for (sometimes unintentional) consequences for ag producers and tells listeners what’s coming at the annual convention on February 16, 2023.

Learn more about the Idaho Hay & Forage Association here:

https://www.idahohay.com/

Potato, sugarbeet and small grains research with Miller Research

Tue, 24 Jan 2023 17:01:41 +0000

“The public sees pesticides as toxins and poisons … but what if we could get them to see them as crop medicines?”

From farmer to academia, back to farmer and expanding researcher, Miller Research history has covered the agricultural spectrum. Using conditions as close to commercial production as possible with field plots, Jeff Miller shares their research efforts into potato seed and pathologies, fertilizers, pesticides and green manures. He also advocates for “regenerative ag” or “sustainability” even when the terms are defined differently or nebulously, and he shares why. Then he’ll take us inside the current research pathways and point to the good things happening.

It's an enlightening show today, and you can’t listen and not learn something new. (And yes, that’s a dare.)

Follow Miller Research here:

https://millerresearch.com/

Facebook @millerresearchllc

YouTube: @MillerResearch1

jeff@millerresearch.com

College of Southern Idaho ag programs with Jaysa Fillmore

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 17:49:14 +0000

Two-hundred seventy-four students in 60 classes are in the ag programs at College of Southern Idaho, which are welcoming to students with ag experience and no-ag-experience students. Ag instructor Jaysa Fillmore talks about a variety of ag programs available from aquaculture to vet tech with the associates degrees available, and how to find those scholarship opportunities for the programs. She also tells us about the Ag Club, and some of the trips and competitions for students (which will explain “tacos in the parking lot” and “potatoes in roaster ovens in the dorms”). And Jaysa shares a new project – ruminant rotational grazing research on the Breckenridge Endowment Farm.

Follow the CSI Ag Department and CSI Ag Club on their social media accounts here: https://www.facebook.com/CSIagdept

https://www.facebook.com/agclubCSI

@csiagdept (Instagram)

@csi_ag_club (Instagram)

Idaho fish and proposed dam breaching – what do we know, and what are we guessing at?

Tue, 03 Jan 2023 20:09:05 +0000

Magic Valley farmer, cattle raiser and pork raiser Dave Roper tells us about a citizens group, Citizens for Preservation of Fish and Dams, that is delving into the proposed dam-breaching issues beyond ag transportation disruption, fish survivability and power generation – what are the unintended consequences (good and bad) of dams and reservoirs? Where can you find collected data to pursue more about the topic and the science beyond differing arguments? That’s what the group hopes to be able to provide – information for those searching for answers.

One thing I learned from this episode: At one point in their lives (typically in springtime) fish (salmon and steelhead) physically develop something not unlike a float tube. So as much as a fish might want to swim to the bottom, it can’t and can go no deeper than about 1 foot in the water – being vulnerable to prey. And many are flushed out of the rivers too fast at this stage into the ocean, without the time to adapt from fresh water to saltwater conditions. Without adaptation, they die.

Have a question for our guest? Contact citizensforfishdam@gmail.com

Farriers – when the shoe fits, with Spencer Ray

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 20:33:57 +0000

Spencer Ray and Phil Knight (Nike guru) are both shoe dogs, just for different animals. Both work with athletes, to help them perform in ways that their sports, athleticism, unique body types and gaits require. As a farrier, Spencer works with the kind of animals that don’t talk back, but they do stomp, kick, dance around and sometimes jerk his shoulder out of its socket. He shares a piece of that life with listeners today and describes how his work is changing and how customer tastes are changing. Come prepared to learn something new.

The more I went to school, the smarter Dad got

Tue, 13 Dec 2022 21:09:26 +0000

Moving an operation from one generation to another, Gus Brackett offers advice for those coming back to the ranching operation, which is “understand the why – why we do things” and understand that first, before you just come in wanting to change things, and then be patient with change. He says, “The more I went to school, the smarter Dad got.”

Gus Brackett, columnist for Ag Proud – Idaho, shares his philosophies in his monthly column The Outside Circle, which is an old buckaroo term for the luckless cowboy who has to take the outside loop when circling up the cows. He always volunteers for that job, however, because it’s “the best place to stew and think things over.”

What’s on Gus’s mind today?

Follow Gus Brackett:

Facebook: @gus.brackett

Or find his books here

Farming rocks and not liking it much, McIntyre Family Farm makes a change

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 20:37:09 +0000

They started out with traditional farming practices “stuck at the end of the canal between the rattlesnakes and rocks.” Beating the odds of farm consolidations or sell-offs, 4th generation family members at McIntyre Farms are now actively preparing for the 5th generation through soil health practices and multi-species grazing that will ensure their operation is sustainable for many years ahead. Brad McIntyre converted to a soil health system with no-till practices and cover crops, and the family now raises grassfed and finished beef, pastured pigs, laying hens, broiler chickens, meat ducks and turkeys. Get your protein here!

Follow McIntyre Family Farms here: https://mcintyrefamilyfarms.com/

Facebook: @mcintyrepastures

Instagram: @mcintyrepastures

Idaho Farm and Ranch Center

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 20:42:36 +0000

Anna Pratt Likely and Cori Wittman Stitt are our guests today and they’ve just debuted the first Idaho Farm and Ranch Center Conference to help connect producers with transition planning resources. Anna and Cori talk about their respective roles and goals for this new arm of Idaho Department of Agriculture. There may be resources you’d be interested in ….

Follow the Idaho Farm and Ranch Center here: https://agri.idaho.gov/farmcenter/

Your host, Homer Jaynes

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 18:13:56 +0000

Today our host, Homer Jaynes (under some duress), agreed to tell you a little about himself, what his ag experience is, and where he comes from. He’s probably not going to tell you about the time he drove his pickup out on the pond ice and broke through. He’s probably not going to tell you about the time he rode his 4-H steer in the sale ring at the market fat stock sale. He’ll spare you some of those details … so mum’s the word – you didn’t hear it here.

Find out more about your host, and the fire off an email to him at podcast@agproud.com and let him hear from you!

Editors give insights as to “what is going on with the website”

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 20:35:04 +0000

Today, Editor Carrie Veselka and Associate Publisher David Cooper visit about “what the heck is going on with the Ag Proud – Idaho website.” And it’s good news for you – the website now has more features, more how-to articles, more information for your operation, more security, and it’s more mobile-friendly than ever before. If you need us from the tractor cab, we’ll be there. If you need us from the milking parlor, we’ll be there. If you need us from the far hills on the back of your horse … well, as long as you have reception we’ll be there. Find out what we can do for you.

Idaho ranching challenges with ICA Executive Director Cameron Mulrony

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 01:47:10 +0000

Host Homer Jaynes interviews Idaho Cattle Association (ICA) Executive Director Cameron Mulrony in this recording. They discuss growth in the state and how uninformed residents affect all of agriculture. They also talk about herd reduction nationwide and market impacts, extreme legislative movements concerning cattle in neighboring states, stock water rights and a host of Idaho ranching concerns and challenges. Get caught up on many current industry issues before the ICA annual convention in Sun Valley!

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

The Idaho State Department of Agriculture’s Farm and Ranch Conference is bringing together producers, agribusinesses, organizations, and community leaders to exchange knowledge and expertise that position Idaho agriculture for success.

The Farm and Ranch Conference will address key issues affecting Idaho producers. Attendees should be ready to engage with a variety of nationally renowned speakers, concurrent workshops, and panel discussions focused on managing finances, overcoming challenges, and planning for the future of the farm.

Trying a new crop

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 02:02:09 +0000

Today’s interview is with Dale Cowger, a farmer in Twin Falls County who tried something new this year – growing triticale seed. Dale shares some of his experiences with the crop, its challenges, and its benefits. Find out if this crop might be a new revenue stream for you.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

The cost of uncovered silage

Thu, 15 Sep 2022 21:29:05 +0000

Our podcast guest today is with Jared Coley, of Setac, a silage and feed covering company in the Magic Valley. Jared talks about the business of covering silage piles and haystacks, and the feed loss associated with piles not protected. If it’s not the tarp covering keeping out the oxygen on a silage pile, 12-18 inches of moldy, rotted surface will eventually seal it out – your choice. As much as 10% feed loss can happen with unprotected feed, and that gets expensive.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

Equipment trends in Idaho

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 22:28:27 +0000

Today’s interview is with Jamen Painter, Sales Pro with Agri-Service in the Treasure Valley. Jamen lives and breathes farm equipment and has to know the ins and outs of a lot of different products, sizes and horsepower of tractors and implements to take care of his diverse customers. He talks about the equipment trends they’re seeing, technology and what drives purchasing options. It’s an inside look on an industry that involves us all.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

Herd health during challenging times

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 20:39:01 +0000

Today, our host Homer Jaynes visits with Briana Schumacher, Global Herd Careline Manager with Genex. Briana tells us what she’s seeing on Idaho farms and ranches relating to herd health and how different managers are handling those challenges, both on dairies and on beef and purebred operations. She has a lot of insight to share.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

Farming data analysis

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 00:08:43 +0000

Today, Homer Jaynes visits with David Gleason and Jeremy Singer of the Simplot Corporation. They dive into farm data analysis (rotations, moisture levels, soil types and conditions, etc.) and what that means for next year’s yields. It’s all about maximizing yields while minimizing inputs with Smartfarm, no matter what part of the country you’re in. Then Jeremy tells us about Simplot coordination with NRCS in a new venture to help take information to producers.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

Dairy and beef genetics

Tue, 09 Aug 2022 19:06:36 +0000

Today Homer Jaynes interviews Justin Praegitzer, a field representative with GENEX, stationed in south central Idaho. With additional representatives in western and eastern Idaho, Genex provides dairy and beef herds with elite genetics, making genetic improvements to herds faster than ever before. Justin talks about changes in the livestock industry here in Idaho and identifies differences with Idaho herds compared to Midwest or Eastern herds. You’ll always learn something new on the Ag Proud podcast.

Today’s podcast is sponsored by Idaho Farm and Ranch Center.

Livestock judging at the county fairs

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 15:30:24 +0000

Today’s interview is with Homedale’s FFA Advisor and Ag Teacher Shane Wetzel. In addition to his school duties, Wetzel judges livestock shows at several county fairs and jackpots in Idaho. Today he’ll talk about some of the disconnect between show animals and commercial animals and talk about changes throughout the industry that youth can learn from to increase their successes in the show ring.

Livestock auctioneer Jack Riggs

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:00:14 +0000

Do you know what it means to “punch your numbers”? Today’s interview features Jack Riggs who ranches in Glenns Ferry and is a contract auctioneer for Twin Falls Livestock Commission and Burley Livestock Commission. Jack talks about the ins and outs of auctioneering, explains punching numbers, advises when to run a bid and when not to, and gives an inside look at what it takes to become an auctioneer, as well as describing the auctioneer competitions throughout the country.

Room to grow in Idaho with BnB Farms, things you shouldn’t find in a bale of hay, market basics and futures, and chickens on the lam

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 20:12:57 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Room to grow in Idaho – not all those from “out of town” are out-of-towners ¬– so to speak. Some are farmers and ranchers who came looking for an ag-friendly state. BnB Farms in Cambridge is one such story.

(2) Too hot, too cold, too wet, too dry – could describe almost any day in Idaho’s farm country. The commodities cycle runs on the same philosophy apparently, says marketing management advisor Clark Johnston. He talks about managing the ups and downs of a very volatile marketplace.

(3) Zen artists want us to find balance in our lives, but that’s just because they haven’t owned chickens yet. Chickens will turn to mutiny no matter how much fluffy sawdust you give them. Michele Coleman brings her homespun humor to the rural life we all know (all too well).

Hay market movements

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 19:57:04 +0000

Today we bring you an interview with Josh Callen, author and owner of The Hoyt Report. This seven-state hay report is customized for western growers and buyers in Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, Arizona, New Mexico and Nevada. If you want to know alfalfa hay prices and all other forage prices, if you want to know hay industry news and market indicators, if you want to know what the dairy situation is or the hay export situation, then Josh knows....

Sweet dirt at Amalgamated Sugar

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 22:12:13 +0000

Today’s interview is with Clarke Alder of the Amalgamated Sugar Company – a farmer-owned Idaho cooperative. Clarke is the agronomist for the group and helps with the research and grower education. In this short water year, hear what concerns are top of mind for sugarbeet growers.

Farmer Mike Wilkins, Idaho Irrigation Pumpers Association, market historical trends and “Shoeboxes and coffee cans”

Fri, 27 May 2022 22:33:50 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Our feature spotlight today is from Minidoka County where Mike Wilkins farms with his family. Of all the jobs on the farm, Wilkins says his favorite is operating the sugarbeet digger. Freelancer Julia McCarthy tells us his story.

(2) As water becomes ever more valuable to Idaho, a group of ag producers consistently evaluate proposed increases to help legislators, the public and the Public Utilities Commission understand what’s at stake for irrigators. Learn more about the Idaho Irrigation Pumpers Association.

(3) Our next guest knows all things market related – Clark Johnston. Well, he’d probably argue that he doesn’t know ALL things, but studying historical trends can certainly inform tomorrows choices – in any market. The real difficulty, Clark says, is remaining calm through turbulent times.

(4) “Shoeboxes and coffee cans” pretty well sums up humorist Michele Coleman’s column. Where else would you find a pinewood derby car pushed up against two gift cards to the local farm supply store and business cards from tractor salesmen but a farmer’s pocket and keepsake cleanout?

Building nutrient management plans

Wed, 25 May 2022 20:19:48 +0000

Today’s interview is with Shane Blakely of Blakely Ag Consulting in Kimberly. In addition to running his own cow-calf operation, Shane writes nutrient management plans for feedlots and dairies, does ag consulting, phosphorous indexing and water calculations that comply with the Idaho Department of Agriculture standards.

3 Idaho producers shed some light on their water outlook

Fri, 06 May 2022 17:10:09 +0000

Today we have three interviews for you, with three producers from around the state – Lance Griff with Griff Farms in Twin Falls County, Elizabeth Thomas with Thomas Cattle Company in Owyhee County and Shaun Van Orden with GVO Farms in Bingham County. They talk about the water situation this year and what changes that might mean for their operations.

Potato sniffing dogs, grain teff, what’s in a name and “honestly compelling”

Mon, 02 May 2022 21:30:51 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) They can sniff out drugs, cancer cells and bombs, and now dogs are being trained to sniff out potato diseases in the field and in storage facilities. Freelancer Heather Smith Thomas introduces us to the dogs’ handler to find out more about these unique capabilities.

(2) Grain teff has become a new crop option for farms in southern Idaho. It’s a high-paying crop and production can be contracted. Two producers in Twin Falls County share their experiences and challenges.

(3) Bestowing names (and ear tags) shouldn’t be complicated, but sometimes farm families like the Colemans just use up, recycle and reissue names generation after generation. So it’s understandably a little murkier for them. Michele Coleman explains why doctors, friends and even marriage officiators get confused by her family’s clan.

(4) Life has a funny way of holding us accountable – which in this case is accomplished through a dog’s loyalty or a brand on a calf hide … but it still holds us accountable. Humor columnist Paul Marchant leads us through the rancher’s philosophy of doing the right things for the right reasons.

Planter technology – we’ve come a long way baby

Mon, 18 Apr 2022 17:35:27 +0000

Today we bring you an interview with Jason Webb of Spring Farms in Declo. In addition to farming his own family farm, he custom plants corn silage and sugarbeets for other farmers. To do it right, Jason has some of the latest bells and whistles on his planter that determine precise seed placement, soil moisture, closing pressure needed, and depth. But the results are corn fields that look as uniform as picket fences.

Zitlau Valley Farm, L&L Meats and Michele Coleman – King Lear and his dogs

Mon, 04 Apr 2022 17:43:41 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of this podcast:

(1) Zitlau Valley Farm - Zitlau Valley Farm in Bonneville County achieved century farm designation, after 100 years of working hard and being willing to adjust their revenue streams to keep more family members involved – including now members of the fourth generation.

(2) L&L Meats in Homedale, Idaho, stays busy as a mobile butchering business – and it’s even mobile enough to go as far as Alaska for a few weeks and help with cattle harvest there.

(3) Farm dogs can be fickle – you think they’re loyal and then someone starts ordering them around and suddenly you’re knocked off the top spot. Or someone comes out with steak bones to share, and suddenly you’re just sinew and hide. But don’t worry – they’ll come around. Michele Coleman shares her farm dog saga, reinforcing the belief that old dogs can learn new tricks.

Farm revenue opportunities with Radley Buxton

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 16:11:31 +0000

Today we bring you a live interview with Radley Buxton, with The Radley Group Land and Luxury real estate company. Radley will explore options for pivot corner use, what to do with old farmhouses and barn apartments, and the hot market for dry camping spots – options that we might not have explored much.

Idaho Jackpot Show Series

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 15:47:12 +0000

Today we bring you a live interview with Will Jaynes, a board member of the Idaho Jackpot Show Series, which is new in 2022. Will explains the drive and concept behind the show series and tells us why it’s important to have this avenue available for Idaho youth in the show ring.

Biofiltro research on an Idaho dairy

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 15:30:53 +0000

Mai Ann Healy with Biofiltro tells us about a research project they’re conducting on a dairy here in Idaho, with a unique product using worms, which is designed to reduce methane emissions.

The case for a smaller cow, the moving target of risk management, training stock dogs and tribute to the stock dogs of Idaho ranches

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 16:12:52 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Against industry norms, one ranch now focuses on producing a smaller cow, to increase feed efficiency in a range environment. Backed by research, 1,200-pound cows wean heavier calves than 1,400-pound cows, and they share their experiences.

(2) Crop input costs, rotations and water expectations – these make crop production always a moving target. But the only information growers have is today’s news – not tomorrow’s or next week’s. Clark Johnston, from JC Management guides us in this next article (titled Grain markets: The moving target of risk management) to determine which risk mitigation tools to use.

(3) Bancroft rancher Steven Wight trains stock dogs and competes in national competitions. The problem is, Wight says, “When you get a good finished dog, it’s tough to let them go.” Freelancer Julia McCarthy shares some of Wight’s training tips.

(4) Stock dogs – I’ll bet you can name every stock dog you’ve ever had – the trained ones, the knotheads, the chicken chasers and the tire biters. In his column this month, Paul Marchant pays tribute to the loyal ranch canines he’s shared with his family.

Automatic teat sprayer development, Idaho’s Hispanic agricultural employee survey and The last woman in America still wearing nylons

Mon, 07 Mar 2022 17:01:15 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Idaho-based leader fills the cow tech gap between OEMs and on-farm needs – Editor Walt Cooley visits with Automated Dairy about their automatic teat sprayer for the dairy parlor.

(2) Money doesn’t always matter – Freelancer Kimberly Williams Brackett brings you the results of Idaho’s Hispanic agricultural employee survey, highlighting what’s important to this sector of the work force.

(3) Humor columnist and farmer’s wife Michele Coleman says her later years are shaping up to be geared more toward “living relic” than “vintage.” She missed the memo about current trends, makes her own pie filling without posting about it on Instagram, and is only followed by her dog Molly.

Tuff-bilt tractors, Ag stress and mental health, God’s tender mercies

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 22:38:14 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Farming in developing countries around the world is linked directly to Idaho through Christensen Machine Inc. in Heyburn. CMI is where Tuff-bilt tractors are manufactured, and these are modeled along the old Allis Chalmers G that was originally designed for homesteads of no more than 40 acres. Baby boomer farming (or farming under 20 acres) is also a market for this up-and-coming business.

(2) The agrarian imperative says something like this: “I have to hold onto the family farm, no matter the cost.” We don’t want to let our ancestors down. But the challenges are monumental in scope – global in scope, and some farmers have never felt more powerless. But there are, in fact, distinctive, proactive steps that go a long way to alleviate the issues. And resources are available.

(3) While we work every day for the ever bigger and ever better blessings we’re sure must await us, how humbling it is to realize the details of God’s hand in our everyday lives – from “the four-wheeler that runs and a kid horse that doesn’t,” or “the colt that bucked when you were 25 and the one that doesn’t when you’re 45.” God’s tender mercies are given to us, no matter how undeserving we may be.

Beyond the Ring livestock shows and pink checks

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 23:47:29 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Beyond the Ring and the Idaho Jackpot Show Series – A new showmanship points system has come to town. It is to livestock showing what PRCA is to rodeo. And several Idaho shows are sanctioned for the 2022 season. Learn more about it.

(2) Farm wife humorist Michele Coleman shares her gnarly system of bookkeeping on the family farm, and she explains the pink check saga.

Heat affects pregnancy rates, a new invasive insect, and “Could I have been wrong?”

Tue, 01 Feb 2022 21:34:41 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) John Hall, University of Idaho professor and beef extension specialist says, “Through visits with veterinarians and ranchers, it appears most herds have 3 to 10 percent more open cows.” Hall discusses the impacts of the hot and dry summer with freelancer Kimberly Williams Brackett in this next article.

(2) What has a long, hard-to-pronounce Latin name and fits on a dime? It’s a new invasive insect (or new to Idaho) discovered near Mountain Home in 2021. Extension educator Brad Stokes tells us what’s in store.

(3) Paul Marchant discovers a lot of things on his ranch – a lot of things about himself and life and what could or should have been done differently. Today he shares a lesson that happened 45 miles from his home, when he discovered a three-quarter-ton Ford pickup can break through swampy salt grass sod about as quickly as a sick cow.

Rural connectivity, a meat ministry in Salmon, and Michele Coleman’s Christmas list

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 18:34:06 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Rural Connectivity: How’s Idaho coming with broadband internet, cell phone use and connectivity? This 2021 survey found mobile computer counterparts becoming more popular, such as smartphones and tablets, and Idaho use is higher than the national rate.

(2) A Meat Ministry: When a community comes together and each member offers a service or part, many lives can be affected for good. In Salmon, Idaho, state agencies, community members, churches and businesses came together to provide meat to those in need. Here’s their story.

(3) A Farm Wife’s Christmas List: Gift giving for the farm and ranch wife is very complicated. The perfect gift just might be to NOT track mud in the door for a whole year, or a promise to NOT put wet towels in the clothes hamper. Beyond that, your expectations should be low, advises humor columnist Michele Coleman.

Parlor to retail, the art of farm taxes, CREP, and All the glory ends up on the laundry room floor

Mon, 27 Dec 2021 19:07:06 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Parlor to retail: Dairies owners around the state sat on a panel to talk about their shift from the milking parlor to processing and marketing directly to consumers. They share with us the pitfalls, struggles and rewards of such a move in this next article.

(2) The art of farm taxes: Certified public accountant Doug Lincoln says, “… I consider it one of the worst planning mistakes to pay no taxes at all in a year.” And he’s directing his remarks specifically to farmers and ranchers.

(3) One program that is often overlooked in risk management is CREP, or Conservation Reserve Program, and it can be especially beneficial in drought years. Extension education Terrell Sorensen walks us through the highlights of that program.

(4) Wipe your feet: Farm wife and mom Michele Coleman has to look no farther than her laundry room door to figure out what the kids have been up to. Hay – that’s what they’ve been up to – pockets and pockets of hay.

Farm trash, Desert Mountain Grass-Fed Beef Co-op, Grain Craft, and Hoosiers and Pea Eye

Thu, 02 Dec 2021 19:55:56 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Like the rare kid that organizes his holiday candy into size, color and flavor piles, I’m sure there are a few rare farmers and ranchers out there who also organize – but most of us do not. We use the packrat and boneyard system. But we’re not alone - even NASA has satellite junk. Editor Lynn Jaynes reminds us this month to be thankful – even for our farm trash.

(2) Co-ops have been around a long time, but co-ops for beef production are a more recent development. Let’s look at 25 ranchers from four states who have come together to produce a consistent supply of grass-fed beef marketed directly to consumers. They call themselves Desert Mountain Grass-Fed Beef Co-op.

(3) 1.7 million pounds of flour per day is what Grain Craft mills in its Blackfoot facility. This family-owned company contributes to your daily food intake without you hardly recognizing their contribution to dinner rolls, tortillas, pizza dough, noodles and breakfast cereals.

(4) Success doesn’t look the same for everyone, and everyone sets goals a little differently. But humor columnist Paul Marchant encourages everyone from basketball players to sale-topping cattle breeders to just aim to do their best – however they define it.

C&L Locker, J3 Dairy, shipping fever and Wipe Your Feet columnist Michele Coleman

Mon, 08 Nov 2021 22:11:02 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) C & L Locker: Sam and Lauren Hunt had a goal: Breed it, butcher it and see it on a plate. In 2010 Hunts bought the local butcher shop business near Moscow and almost immediately had trouble keeping up with consumer demand. So, they expanded their personal herd to fill the gaps. Their background in beef production and genetics helps give consumers what they’re looking for – a local product with good-tasting and well-cared-for animals.

(2) J3 Dairy: There are still pioneers in the ag industry – people who never grew up in agriculture, but at some point jumped in with both feet. Jeff Lund at J3 Dairy is one of those pioneers. Today, he and his two sons are still optimistic about the dairy industry and hope to expand further.

(3) Shipping Fever: As cattle are shipped in the fall, stress for the animal ramps up and depresses their immunity from common ailments like BRD and pneumonia. With pre-conditioning and management, however, producers can help mitigate the stress of the season. University of Idaho extension educator Meranda Small shares how.

(4) Chickens and owls: Just as owls and chickens run on different activity clocks, so do members of the Coleman family, resulting in a few who like to crow about getting up early and others who start a batch of pickles at 11 p.m. It’s a challenge to get a farm to run when everyone is on a different clock.

2B Land and Livestock LLC, selling carbon credits, Doc Geary and “don’t forget your rope”

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 18:52:35 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Editorial intern Sundee Holtman questioned Ty and Matea Beck of Burley, Idaho to find out what their farm strategy was. Ty talks about his changing mindset – knowing things that he can affect and knowing the things he can’t.

(2) Talk around the industry regarding carbon credits has taken an interesting turn in the courts. California holds carbon credits are not property rights, but the rest of the country doesn’t seem to agree. And can these be taxed? There’s a lot to be cussed and discussed.

(3) A mobile veterinary service in Chester, Idaho, specializes in embryo transfer in cattle and horses. Doc Geary and his wife, Cindy, are well known in eastern Idaho as they operate a large animal vet clinic in the spirit of teamwork – loving their clients (the four-legged and two-legged variety).

(4) Do you have a backup plan? Humor columnist Paul Marchant strongly advises having “plan B” ready for any situation, but especially if you’re working with cattle. Seldom do those critters cooperate, especially if you’re in a hurry.

Steinmann seed potatoes, negotiation in agriculture, and apple pie and donkey basketball

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 22:43:23 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) You know if you eat a French fry where that potato came from – of course you do – Idaho. But where do those purple, gold, red and black potatoes come from? And the funny shaped ones? And the ones bagged in the garden store for spring planting? Freelancer Heather Smith Thomas will introduce you to one of Idaho’s own niche potato market growers: Steinmann Seed Potatoes.

(2) The game “rock, paper, scissors” has probably settled its share of disagreements, but it has little efficacy on negotiations when it comes to ag contracts. University of Idaho Extension Economist Ashlee Westerhold shares three questions to ask yourself before negotiating that contract.

(3) FFA donkey basketball and dessert auctions share the stage of columnist Michele Coleman’s world, as she shares why her humble apple pie hit the sweet spot of the fundraising auction.

1,000 Springs Mill, R-Ag Inc., Silver Creek Seed, and Irons in the Fire

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 21:51:11 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) What began as a journey to eliminate brokers and handlers, has led developers Kurt Mason and Tim Cornie to create a mill in Buhl, Idaho for organic grains. Now consumers find their products on shelves, even at big box stores.

(2) Editor Sundee Holtman introduces our next guest, as she interviewed Ryan Robertson in Hidden Valley, Idaho at R-Ag Inc. Beyond straight fences and tall crops, what makes his operation “work”?

(3) You can farm without buying land – and don’t let anyone tell you differently. Silver Creek Seed has operated on rented ground since 2006 and is successful with their potato seed operation. Mark and Jill Johnson of Bellvue lead us through their story of creating a business enterprise.

(4) Columnist Paul Marchant admits there should probably be an intervention for those (like him) who are addicted to bull sale catalogs. And it’s that time of year again … those catalogs will start showing up any day.

Reviewing the cow-calf model, Grand Teton Ancient Grains, All about aphids, growing corn

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 21:48:49 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) One size never fits all in ranching, and with tighter margins of the past several years producers are learning that cow-calf operations deserve more evaluation. New approaches to the ranching model also need new cost analyses, which economist Ben Eborn provides.

(2) Ancient grain varieties offer benefits over newer varieties – namely in low gluten levels. Grand Teton Ancient Grains ships these varieties throughout the U.S. and into 30 countries, and they’re looking for more growers.

(3) If “keep your friends close and your enemies closer” has any truth to it, then you should listen to this next article on our common enemy - aphids. Aphids cause not only direct plant damage but also by spreading virus that causes indirect damage. It’s a double-whammy, and it’s everyone’s problem.

(4) Farmers have this funny way of knowing every cow, or remembering every crop of corn, and they can prove it by talking endlessly about the differences. And a farmer might not know his neighbor’s name, but he knows everything about his neighbor’s corn. Wipe Your Feet columnist Michele Coleman relieves the corn season with us through the eyes of her family.

RVs on the farm, county fairs and Lava Lake Land & Livestock

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 21:39:52 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Brian and Kathleen Bean weren’t born into the sheep business, but they adopted it after a 30-year career in the Marine Corp and moved to Hailey, Idaho. But, like many producers these days, they found costs rising and decided to go after the specialty markets – grass-fed and grass-finished lamb – at a time when grazing allotments had seen a lot of changes.

(2) The shutdown of tourism in 2020 led some farms to get really creative in generating income. For some, this included opening up their farms to overnight RV camping. As varied as bed-and-breakfast facilities, each farm has different amenities and platforms, but all have a few things in common now – extra income and lots of new acquaintances.

(3) Few activities and competitions teach the life lessons that livestock projects can teach at the county fair. Where else will they halter-break steers, feed them, doctor them, cuss them, show them, lose with them, win with them, and then lead them onto a truck headed to the kill plant? Paul Marchant shares his perspective in this article of Irons in the Fire.

Farm trucks, a bison ranch, reasons for not growing cover crops, and the common language of calving

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 22:00:12 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) It needs new tires, it doesn’t break out of second gear, and it’s really only used to haul water to the cows, so it’s classified as a farm truck, right? That’s where the Department of Transportation gets involved – and you need to know your limits. This article breaks it down for you.

(2) Every producer would like more control over market prices. A few, like Dan Shoemaker in New Plymouth, Idaho, have found a way to produce a meat product and still control the market – with bison production. Here’s his story.

(3) Could you name the top five reasons producers are not using cover crops? Is the problem with the system or growing them, or is the problem with the grower? Idaho extension staff looked into this question and came up with the most common responses.

(4) Wipe your feet: You’d think having a husband, a wife and a doctor in the same room birthing a child while speaking the same language would be a good thing. But if that language is “cows calving” then all bets are off. Columnist Michele Coleman recounts the complexities this “common language” brings to the birthing room.

A Russian olive wake, alfalfa thrips, effective dairy management and flying dogs and $2 calves

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 18:51:10 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) Ron Patterson, a horticulture educator from University of Idaho Extension says, “Have you ever wondered what really happens when you cut down or rip a Russian olive out of the ground? I’ll tell you what you do: You invite 100 angry Russian olives to the funeral.” There’s not a farm or ranch in southern Idaho that doesn’t deal with the problem. This article brings some answers.

(2) Every farmer and rancher wonders what the tipping point is – how many thrips does it take to make treating them cost effective? Six thrips per stem? 12? Here’s some Idaho data to help guide that decision.

(3) If you don’t have time to read every management book at the bookstore to improve your management skills, then this writer has it boiled down to just five items – five steps that will help you be more effective.

(4) Irons in the Fire: Whether it’s a ranch dog riding on a bale in the pickup bed or a rancher with a little green in his pocket, it’s not in the best interest of either to ride too close to the edge. Here’s cowboy author Paul Marchant to bring that closer to home for us.

Chickpeas, raising rodeo rough stock and Grandpa’s medical cures

Fri, 23 Jul 2021 20:50:19 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast episode:

(1) Chickpeas (or garbanzo beans) are an annual legume grown in many parts of the world. These small beans are a key ingredient in hummus, salads, soups, stews, curry and other meal products. Growers in Northern Idaho and the Pullman, Washington area were the first to create this market in the U.S. These pioneering companies and growers share their story.

(2) A lot of folks refer to horses as “hay burners,” which they are. But sometimes horses really do earn their keep in ranch work or on show circuits. Not many horses, however, earn their way onto a rodeo bucking string. This article highlights an Idaho rough-stock producer and gives us a little more insight into this end of the industry.

(3) You may have heard someone quip, “The cure was worse than the disease.” Never was that more true than in Michele Coleman’s childhood. In her “Wipe your feet” column, Michele shares the horrors of relying on Grandpa’s medical philosophy, skills and medicine cabinet.

Not burned out yet, weeds are coming for their pound of milk, Trail Family Farms, Irons in the Fire – Zebra Dun

Tue, 06 Jul 2021 18:11:10 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast episode:

1) Drastic culling and drastic rebuilding seem to be the winning strategy for Jim and Patricia Castle. Their ranch has survived drought and wildfire, but they still love it and have managed to grow it.

2) While weeds usually don't “hurt” an animal that eats them, they stand in the way of other nutrient intake. Here’s why weeds are coming for their pound of milk.

3) Trail Family Farms shares their farm management strategy, and the changes they’ve undergone in the last few years.

4) Have you ever noticed how there’s still a tendency to “circle the wagons” whenever someone attacks agriculture or your way of life? In this month’s Irons in the Fire column, Paul Marchant likens this plight to a horse called Zebra Dun.

Telford farms, grazing research and weed resistance

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 19:41:45 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the features included in this podcast:

(1) “I’ve been broke a couple of times, but I’m still here,” says Mike Telford. In this grower spotlight, author Ellie Dalton asks the Telford family about the ups and downs and ins and outs of potato farming. Few folks like to talk about the hard times, but Mike Telford feels differently. Those hard times are what made him stretch and grow. And his main crop wasn’t potatoes anyway – it was family.

(2) When the University of Idaho acquired Rinker Rock Creek Ranch, researchers jumped at the chance to study grazing on the sagebrush steppe, and compare that to irrigated pasture production. Now, five years into their research, they’re asking producers what data would be most helpful to pinpoint.

(3) You’ve sprayed it, you’ve whacked it and you’ve stomped on it but still it grows. What is that weed? And how in the blazes do we get rid of it? We sprayed our way into this problem, but we can’t spray our way out. In this next article, the University of Idaho Extension Weed Management Specialist gives us some insight into that problem.

(4) Popular columnist Michele Coleman shares her cycle of self-destruction on the farm – it’s called chicken raising. We hate it, we can’t abide it, we dread it – but we do it. And this is why.

Virtual fencing, Bedke ranch changes, Paul’s calving season and Michele’s farm parenting

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 17:45:58 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this podcast:

(1) If you’ve ever pounded fenceposts, you’ll want to stick around for this article. It’s all about virtual fencing, GPS collars and no wire stretching – a new fencing technique ranchers say is here to stay.

(2) You can trust the cow, you can trust your calving system, you can trust your instincts – but you can’t trust the cold during Idaho calving season. Paul Marchant reminds us in his column Irons in the Fire of the exhaustion, successes, failures and struggles of managing a calving herd.

(3) Idaho’s Speaker of the House Scott Bedke, is a rancher near Oakley. Frustrated with calves not gaining well from the time they were weaned until they shipped, he decided to start experimenting with annual crops and then perennial crops that could bridge the gap. He says his new model is the biggest game changer he’s made to the ranch.

(4) Parenting books make it look so easy, but what can they possibly know about farm life? Sure reasoning might work with a reasonable child – it’s conceivable to consider even a hotwire fence a reasonable measure, but when the two meet, you can trust there’s nothing reasonable about it. And that’s the camp that humor columnist Michele Coleman is in.

Planting technology, Jorgensen’s spuds, grain bin upkeep and “A whole lot of bull”

Mon, 07 Jun 2021 17:09:23 +0000

Here’s a breakdown of the articles we’ve featured in this March 2021 issue:

(1) Our first highlight covers planting technology – its costs, benefits and drawbacks. Three producers from Wilder, Declo and Rupert share with us their equipment upgrades and planting strategies, their struggles and experiences.

(2) In this article, Terry, Keith and Bryan Jorgensen talk about the seed potato and fresh-pack potato business on their operation near Grace. The farm-to-plate sector may have the greatest opportunities moving forward, they say, and Jorgensens tell us a little about that journey.

(3) I know, in March you’re not really thinking about your grain bins – you have the planter being calibrated, the tractors getting serviced and are even thinking about that first hay chopping. But don’t overlook the grain bins. Here’s a reminder of the off-season maintenance that needs to happen.

(4) Humor columnist Michele Coleman says families should agree on a lot of things – where to live, how much to save, where to roast the hot dogs in summer, for instance. But every late-winter bull sale season a small explosion ignites in the Coleman household as the family divides and takes sides – regarding breed type, affordable bids, and acceptable birth weights.

Organics, Weber’s Star Gate Ranch and Meeks’ year-long grazing

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:45:25 +0000

In today’s podcast, we’ll bring you three organic producers and share their take on the organics markets and challenges with production. We’ll also swing by Dietrick, Idaho and find out why it’s ranching country. And columnist Paul Marchant always spins a good yarn and likens it to the human condition, which we know you’ll appreciate. Then we’ll look at the Meeks cattle operation, where haying is a thing of the past. We’re glad you’ve joined us.

Annual Idaho ag financial report, Scott Bennett Farms (Grandview), sugarbeet root pits and Idaho’s only farrier school

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:30:17 +0000

In today’s podcast, we’ll bring you a full report of the financial condition of Idaho agriculture, a look into forging professional farriers, and finding out what a sugarbeet root pit can tell us. And there’s a sunflower seed farm near Grand View that schedules a lot of time for workers walking the neighbors’ ditch banks – we’ll learn why. Stick around for these and other stories in this week’s podcast.

Sample of what is to come

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:15:11 +0000

This is our sample episode to give you a taste of what is to come in future episodes of this podcast and content has been selected from the December 2020 edition of Ag Proud – Idaho.

In today’s podcast, we’ll bring you a look inside a mint farm in Wilder, see what’s going on in the milk processing world and find out what 12 cameras with 4,000 images per camera are telling researchers about cattle and wildlife grazing habits.

Why Ag Proud – Idaho?

Mon, 24 May 2021 00:00:30 +0000

Progressive Publishing is the company who produces Ag Proud – Idaho magazine. It is (and has always been) Idahoan, and is based in Jerome. We started over 30 years ago with a newsletter for local dairies and eventually went national with our coverage specific to the dairy, beef and forage industries.

But all the while, we looked out the windows of our offices in Idaho and saw our neighbors growing pintos, sugarbeets, russets, wheat and barley, apples, carrots and a mosaic of other crops – and realized we should be taking care of business at home. That’s what Ag Proud is about.

We know you’re busy, and the list of things to get done every day gets longer and longer; you have limited time to read most of your mail or even a fifth of your emails. That’s why we wanted to offer an audio version of the magazine – taking the best articles and recording them for when you have some “windshield time” or down time. We promise to deliver articles, information, markets and features all sifted specifically for Idahoans – to support you, your family and your business.

Stay tuned for more episodes centered on family, farming and livestock in Idaho. We’re glad you’ve joined us.