OWATONNA, MN, February 6 - Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) recently received a $50,000 allocation from the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) through the State’s new Emerging Entrepreneurs Loan Program (EELP). The money will be used to provide loans to businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities … [Read more...]
Omodt and Jorde Farms GP and its path from a family farm to 48-state business
When it comes to the Omodt family, one can undoubtedly notice the presence of the farming industry, perhaps leading to the conclusion of its possibility of running in the genes of select individuals. That is why it is no surprise to learn of Perry Omodt, grandson of the original owners of Omodt and Jorde Farms GP, now being a half of the partnership of the nationally … [Read more...]
Gehling Auction Co. bids for comfort in new building
The days of standing out in the rain, snow and heat are distant memories for those who attend auctions at Gehling Auction Co., LLC of Preston, Minn. “Technology” was the main reason a new building was necessary, states owner Ron Gehling, who operates the business with his wife Lana and son Matt. “Technology has changed it all,” says Ron, as people no longer have to deal … [Read more...]
A View From the Woods ~ Insidious pesticide use harms pollinators
I don’t often mix the personal reflections of this column with my professional life. However, I recently worked on a project that revealed a huge environmental problem that is little known, even to the people who are involved in it. I behooves me to share what I have learned. Many are aware of declining monarch butterfly populations, because we so rarely see them … [Read more...]
SEMAC announces April 1 grant application deadline
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through grants from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the Arts & Cultural Heritage fund. The Southeastern Minnesota Arts Council announces a call for proposals in three categories: Arts & Cultural Heritage, Presenter/Production Assistance, and Small Towns/Rural Areas. … [Read more...]
Fillmore County producers urged to consider risk protection coverage before crop sales deadlines
The USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) reminds producers to review available USDA crop risk protection options, including federal crop insurance and Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP) coverage, before the crop deadline of March 15, 2017. Federal crop insurance covers crop losses from natural adversities such as drought, hail and excessive moisture. NAP covers … [Read more...]
SWCD High School Scholarship deadline is March 31
Each year, the Fillmore Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) provides two $500 scholarships to students pursuing a degree in natural resources, agriculture or another related field. One of the scholarships goes to a graduating Fillmore County high school senior. That application is due Friday, March 31. Applications are available at the SWCD office in Preston or … [Read more...]
DNR teams with USDA sharpshooters to contain CWD
“Right now, it looks like we’re on the front end of this,” USDA District Supervisor and Wildlife Biologist John Hart said about the 2016 discovery of Chronic Wasting Disease in Southeastern Minnesota. After two deer near Lanesboro and Preston tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease last fall, the Minnesota DNR placed a recreational feeding ban in Fillmore, Mower, … [Read more...]
C and T Horse Company weathers the highs and low of the business
Father and son duo Clint and Todd Peterson have been in the horse trading business ever since they can remember. “All I’ve ever really done is trade horses,” Clint said. “Todd’s been doing it since he was big enough to.” Under the name of C and T Horse Company, Clint and Todd have sold horses all over the United States. On the schedule for early March is a trip to Maine … [Read more...]
View Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park by horseback
As many people look at their calendars and start planning ahead for this year’s vacation spots for their families and horses some may overlook a wonderful location right here in Fillmore County. In fact, they may be the busiest trails in the United States for several reasons. Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, which is nestled between Spring Valley, Minn., and Preston, … [Read more...]