Economic Development Authorities (EDAs) play a critical role in supporting rural communities by providing financial tools and guidance. In Fillmore and Houston Counties, two key EDA programs, Revolving Loan Funds (RLFs) and grants, serve as essential resources for both new and existing businesses, non-profit organizations, and government entities. A community’s approach to … [Read more...]
Launching Seed Library in Spring Valley
The seed of gardening joy was planted in Fillmore County Master Gardener, Magali Disdier by her grandparents who were farmers. “One of my grandfather’s hobbies was to graft all his fruit trees in his orchard,” commented Magali. This love of flourishing flora, as well as the desire to encourage others to explore the concept of gardening, inspired Magali to start a local seed … [Read more...]
2025 Seed Trial Winners
By Katie Drewitz University of Minnesota Extension The University of Minnesota and the University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardeners have been running a flower and vegetable varietal trial since 1982. Extension Master Gardeners around the state devote some of their garden space to the selected varietals and keep records throughout the growing season. The results … [Read more...]
Featherstone Farm Marks 32 Years of Local, Organic Vegetable Production
Take a drive through the farmlands of Fillmore or Houston counties, and you’ll see the same few crops: corn, soybeans, maybe some hay. Head west out of Rushford on Highway 30, and just past the cement plant you’ll see something totally different: acre after acre of cabbage, peppers, tomatoes, lettuce, melons, carrots, cucumbers, kale, broccoli, beets, onions, squash - pretty … [Read more...]
Fillmore Central Senior Bound for NCAA Equestrian Team
By Janette Dragvold From a young age Zoey Case, of rural Canton, Minn., loved horses. Her parents got her her first horse, a sorrel quarter horse named Reba in 2017. The next year at the age of nine she started showing. Now 17, she currently has two quarter horses, an appaloosa and a POA (Pony of the Americas) pony. She attends, on average, between 10 to 15 shows a year. … [Read more...]
A Story of Bravery
Baron the Brave, a 10-year-old miniature horse weighing 270 pounds and standing 8.3 hands, visited residents at the Minnesota Veterans Home in Preston last August. Baron brought smiles to the faces of the veterans, and his visit stirred many cherished memories. Veterans eagerly gathered to greet him, gently petting his muzzle while sharing stories when they owned … [Read more...]
Summary of Lanesboro FFA
The Lanesboro FFA Chapter has been busy this year with career development events, award applications, and many fun activities for members. About 100 students are enjoying the friendships, opportunities, and recognition that FFA has to offer. The year began with two members exhibiting at the Minnesota State Fair FFA Livestock Show. Soon after, members were competing in … [Read more...]
Rushford-Peterson Celebrates FFA Week
Members of the Rushford-Peterson FFA Chapter are excited to celebrate National FFA Week! To celebrate, the chapter has planned several activities to promote agricultural awareness, community involvement, and school spirit. The chapter will host its yearly teacher appreciation breakfast to thank educators for their continued support of FFA. In addition, members will visit … [Read more...]
LeRoy-Ostrander FFA To Celebrate FFA Week
The LeRoy-Ostrander FFA will celebrate 2026 FFA Week with a variety of items throughout the week!! L-O FFA members and L-O students/staff will be finding their dressup clothes for the upcoming days that week!! Dress-up days for the week are Monday, February 23 - PJ/Onesie Day, Tuesday, February 24 - Country vs. Country Club, Wednesday, February 25 - Camo Day, Thursday, February … [Read more...]
Spring Grove FFA Members Complete and Prepare for State Events
The Spring Grove FFA Chapter has been busy competing in Career Development Events and participating in leadership activities this year. These events help members build skills, gain experience, and represent Spring Grove in agriculture. Members who competed in General Livestock were Izaak M., Lynden M., McKenna, Henry, and Addison S. The Dairy Evaluation team, including … [Read more...]