The Fillmore County Economic Development Authority (EDA) will host an Agriculture Summit at Eagle Bluff Environmental Learning Center on March 26. This year’s schedule includes presentations on Agricultural Entrepreneurship, Emotional Wellness for Agriculture Families, Succession Planning for Agriculture Business, Investment in Specialty Crops, and Value-Added Agriculture … [Read more...]
4-H Hippology teams win big at Nationals
By Janette Dragvold On February 1, 2020, two junior 4-H Fillmore County Hippology teams competed in their first ever national competition at the Black Hills Stock Show in Rapid City, S. Dak. The 11- to 13-year-olds were excited to be able to represent Fillmore County and the State of Minnesota, but even more excited about the contest’s outcome. Team 2 (Grace Goddard, … [Read more...]
How to saddle a horse safely
Horses are magnificent animals and loyal companions who can successfully handle their share of the workload in various capacities. Learning how to properly saddle a horse is essential for anyone who hopes to ride regularly. The techniques discussed here apply to western saddling, which is the primary way many people saddle their horses for riding. British riding requires … [Read more...]
Mission critical! Contact USDA Farm Service Agency now to enroll in key safety net programs Don’t let the March 16 deadline pass you by
By Joe Martin State Executive Director in Minnesota, USDA Farm Service Agency The clock is ticking… March 16 is THE LAST day to make what is likely one of the most important business decisions you will make for your farming operation this year. If you have not already visited your local Farm Service Agency (FSA) county office to make your election for either … [Read more...]
Farmers encouraged to participate in annual survey
Corn and soybean growers should anticipate calls in February The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is encouraging farmers to take part in its annual pesticide and fertilizer use survey. This year the phone survey is directed at corn and soybean growers. The data helps the MDA track the use of agricultural chemicals on Minnesota farms and provides guidance to … [Read more...]
Minnesota farmers can nominate schools for $15,000 STEM grants
The America’s Farmers programs, sponsored by Bayer Fund, are back for another year to strengthen farming communities across Minnesota. Beginning January 1, America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education is partnering with farmers across the country to help strengthen rural public school districts through $15,000 STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) grants. Since 2010, … [Read more...]
Sesquicentennial farm applications due March 2
Minnesota Farm Bureau’s Sesquicentennial Farm program will honor Minnesota families who have owned their farms for at least 150 years. Since the Sesquicentennial Farm program began in 2008, over 371 farms have been recognized. The Sesquicentennial Farm program recognizes family farms according to the following qualifications: 1) The farm must be at least 150 years old this … [Read more...]
Applications now open for Harvest Entrepreneur Network (HEN) in Greater Minnesota
Entrepreneurs in rural Minnesota are invited to apply to join the Harvest Entrepreneur Network (HEN), a new program led by Community and Economic Development Associates (CEDA). CEDA is a Minnesota-based nonprofit organization dedicated to innovative community development practices and business growth in small towns. Through HEN, CEDA’s professional staff will 1) provide … [Read more...]
State Fair and Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation accepting century farm applications
Minnesota families who have owned their farms for 100 years or more are invited to apply for the 2020 Century Farm Program. Produced by the Minnesota State Fair in conjunction with the Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation, the Century Farm Program was created to promote agriculture and honor historic family farms in the state. More than 10,500 Minnesota farms have been honored … [Read more...]
Marzolf Implement: 65 years of service and relationships
Corey Marzolf, owner of Marzolf Implement in Spring Valley, says that throughout 2019, his business is celebrating 65 years in business, and he attributes that longevity to two guiding principles. Marzolf Implement has always stressed good service after the sale, and maintaining strong relationships with their customers. Regarding the origins of Marzolf Implement, Corey … [Read more...]