The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) is encouraging organizations that benefit Minnesota fruit, vegetable, and other specialty crop producers to apply for Specialty Crop Block Grants (SCBG) to help increase the competitiveness of their crops in local, regional or global markets. Applications are due by 4 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, March 7, 2019. Grant projects can … [Read more...]
MPCA Commissioner denies permit to proposed feedlot, recommends study of nitrate-contaminated waters in the sensitive karst region of southeast Minnesota
Citing the need to address elevated levels of nitrate in drinking water in the karst region of southeast Minnesota, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Commissioner John Linc Stine is announcing his decision to deny a general permit for the proposed Catalpa swine facility in Fillmore County near Mabel, Minn. Because of the permit denial, a related decision, whether to … [Read more...]
Response to interview with a pig
By Dr. Ross Kiehne Swine Veterinarian Harmony, MN In response to: Interview with a Pig As a veterinarian focusing exclusively on pig welfare and health for over 19 years, I have dedicated my life to helping farmers raise pigs in the most humane, healthy and sustainable way possible. I am proud of the role I play and the producers whom I have the privilege to work beside. My … [Read more...]
USDA reminds producers of disaster program deadlines
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) State Executive Director Joe Martin reminds Minnesota producers who experienced losses from natural disasters during the 2017 and 2018 calendar years that they may be eligible for assistance through the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) … [Read more...]
Proposed hog feedlot controversy continues, decision imminent
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) held another meeting to allow the public to express their concerns and to pose questions at the Mabel Community Center on December 4. Similar to the June 19 informational MPCA meeting, concerned citizens packed the community center once again. During the first public comment period, 771 written comments were received by the MPCA. … [Read more...]
MPCA to hold meeting on additional test results for proposed swine facility in Fillmore County
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency will hold a public informational meeting Tuesday, December 4 on additional investigations for the proposed Catalpa Ag swine facility in Fillmore County. The meeting will start at 6:30 p.m. at the Mabel Community Center, 201 Main St. South. The agency will present the findings followed by time for questions. The MPCA will accept comments on … [Read more...]
Friends of the Root River annual meeting
Friends of the Root River and the public are invited to our annual meeting in the Rushford Village Hall on Wednesday, November 28. The address is 43038 MN-30, Rushford. The business meeting begins at 5 p.m., followed by a light dinner at 6 p.m. Our speaker this year, John Bruihler of the Rush-Pine Farmer-Led Council, will speak at 6:30 p.m. to their successes in improving both … [Read more...]
Harmony Gardens and Floral grows with addition of chickens
Andrew and Lisa Kingsley run Harmony Gardens and Floral as a family business with their four children in tow. Grace (eight), Charity (eight), Liberty (seven), and Charlie (four) spend their days playing and helping with chores, which allows them to spend lots of time with their parents. It’s been working out great but towards the end of the last school year, Andrew and Lisa … [Read more...]
Safety on the farm
When you make a mistake on the farm, most often you can learn from it and make corrections so it doesn’t happen again. Following these general safety guidelines can help you prevent accidents and keep you and your loved ones safe. Power take-off The power take-off, or PTO shaft, is an efficient means of transferring mechanical power between farm tractors and implements. This … [Read more...]
Reducing electrical hazards on the farm
With the onset of electrical service to farms throughout the mid-century, rural families and businesses were aided in efficiency, hygienic practices, food storage/handling, and some impressive mechanical equipment upgrades. However, a whole new series of potential hazards were added and even today, are worth noting as the harvest season looms. The obvious hazards, shock to … [Read more...]