By Katie Drewitz As you look at your spring to-do list one of the first things should be getting a soil test done, if you have not done one in the past three years. Under-standing your soil is important for a successful lawn or garden. Soil analysis can help to determine the current state of the soil. You will also receive recommendations for best performance. This time … [Read more...]
MDA Awards $150,000 to Combat Noxious Weeds 11 Projects to Receive Funds
ST PAUL, MN: The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) has announced the recipients of its 2024 Noxious Weed and Invasive Plant Grant. Eleven projects totaling $150,000 were awarded though the grant. The money awarded to cities, counties, townships, conservation districts, and tribal nations will be used to purchase equipment and supplies, conduct mapping and outreach … [Read more...]
NASS 2023 Yield Estimates for Fillmore and Houston Counties
By Katie Drewitz National Ag Statistics Service (NASS) crop yield estimates for 2023 have been posted. Looking at this data is an opportunity to assess yield trends in the counties to better understand yield potential. In turn this assists in the long term financial management of our farms. Today’s article will focus on corn and soybeans, but NASS also has estimated yields … [Read more...]
DHIA and Midwest Dairy Awards
On March 21, Fillmore County dairy producers gathered for their annual Dairy Herd Improvement Association (DHIA) and Midwest Dairy meeting and awards banquet at the Branding Iron restaurant. A Midwest Dairy update was given by Margaret Johnson and the DHIA business update and awards for 2023 were given. Awards presented were: Premier Dairyman - Trailside Holsteins, Fountain; … [Read more...]
Fillmore and Houston County Land Rent Survey Results
By Katie Drewitz University of Minnesota Extension Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s land rent survey. Survey results indicate relatively flat rates in Fillmore County. Houston County saw a small increase in rates from the 2022-2023 survey. Historic rates and land rent resources are available at both the Fillmore and Houston County Extension … [Read more...]
Farm Family: A Family Affair
November’s farm family interview included not only mom and dad, Ryan and Molly Kappers, but their four young children, Haiden, Emily, Olivia and Avery, who range in age from 3 to 10. At the beginning of the interview, the kids were hesitant to talk, but as the interview progressed, they eagerly answered questions and shared their stories. Once outside, the kids became excited … [Read more...]
Sprague Woods Designated as School Forest
Thanks to the dedication and hard work of Caledonia Middle/High School 2023 graduate, Noah Stigeler, the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources officially recognized Sprague Woods in Caledonia, Minn., as an official school forest on Wednesday, May 31. As a senior last year, Stigeler enrolled in the Growth, Mindset, and Leadership course taught by high school social studies … [Read more...]
A Farm Family’s Vision
Eric and Ann Kreidermacher consciously made a decision to live a simple life when they said their vows, which would allow them to raise a happy, healthy family. Both Eric’s parents were raised on farms, his father on a dairy farm. The family farm on which Eric and Ann are raising their family was purchased by Eric’s parents in 1967. His dad milked cows for a few years but … [Read more...]
Local Land Rent Survey Now Available
By Katie Drewitz University of Minnesota Extension PRESTON and CALEDONIA, MN, September 26, 2023 — The Fillmore and Houston County Extension offices are currently collecting responses to the 2023-2024 Fillmore and Houston County land rent surveys. If you are a land owner in Fillmore or Houston County you may see a paper copy of the survey arrive in the mail. University of … [Read more...]
Houston County Fair Open Class Results
Department 1 - Game Horses Dept 1- Class A Keri Eglinton, Champion; Christine Novak, Reserve Dept 1- Class B Keri Eglinton; Reserve Champion Dept 1- Class C Rosalie Plzak, Champion; Keri Eglinton, Reserve Champion Dept 1- Class D Elliot Plzak, Champion; Keri Eglinton, Reserve Dept 1- Class E Elliot Plzak, Champion; Keri Eglinton, Reserve Champion Dept 1- Class … [Read more...]