smallfarmsustainability's podcast

This show is a production of the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Small Farm Sustainability program. We will be discussing all things small farm, acreage living, and sustainable agriculture related.

Episode 236: Meat Processor Lifecycle Workshop with Ethan Bowers 10/17/2024

Episode 236: Meat Processor Lifecycle Workshop with Ethan Bowers In this episode, Christa Hartsook welcomes Ethan Bowers, an Extension Enterprise Development Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, to discuss the upcoming Meat Processor Lifecycle Workshop. This workshop is designed for meat processing professionals, offering essential insights into the entire business lifecycle—from startup financing to transitioning ownership. Join us for this informative episode to prepare for the workshop on November 7, and ensure your meat processing business is equipped for success. Don't miss the early bird registration deadline on October 27! Tune in for all the details you need to thrive in this essential industry. Episode Links: • Meat Processor Lifecyle Workshop web page: • Ethan Bowers: , (515) 460-6068 /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/33503122

Episode 235: Wildlife and Grazing 07/24/2024

Episode 235: Wildlife and Grazing In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Janke, Wildlife Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Listen in as they talk about livestock grazing amongst wildlife, how to protect wildlife while we are working in our fields, and more! Episode Links: • Sign up for the CRP grazing study: • More information on wildlife & grazing: • Adam Janke - | /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/32278142

Episode 234: Summer Lawn Care 06/27/2024

Episode 234: Summer Lawn Care In this episode, Olivia meets with Adam Thoms, Assistant Professor and Extension Turfgrass Specialist at Iowa State University. Tune in to hear all about summer lawn care! We know this year has been WET, and Adam gives us some tips on how to get our lawns looking good again after they've had the stress of water pooling. Episode Links: • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Yard and Garden: • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Department of Horticulture: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/31919877

Episode 233: Forage Update and Management Considerations 06/21/2024

Episode 233: Forage Update and Management Considerations In this episode, Olivia visits with Shelby Gruss, Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Forage Specialist! Tune in as they discuss what the forage forecast currently looks like and management considerations to take when planning for the season! Episode Links: • Shelby Gruss: email: Phone: 515-294-3832 /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/31840572

Episode 232: Beginning Beekeeping in Iowa 05/11/2024

Episode 232: Beginning Beekeeping in Iowa In this episode, Olivia chats with Randall Cass, Bee Extension Specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, for an enlightening discussion on starting your beekeeping journey in Iowa. From colony care to hive management, we explore the essential aspects you need to know. If you're considering taking up beekeeping, this is an episode you won't want to miss! Episode Links: • Beekeeping-Enterprise Budget Series: • Iowa State University Bee Program: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/31194867

Episode 231: Iowa Climate 05/06/2024

Episode 231: Iowa Climate In this episode, Christa sits down with Dennis Todey, Director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, Agricultural Climatology Specialist at Iowa State Extension and Outreach. As the weather shifts and farmers gear up for planting season, our focus turns to the forecast for the coming months. Join us for an insightful discussion on what lies ahead! Episode Links: • Midwest Climate Hub Outlook: • Sign up for their webinars: • Weather and Climate with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: • Madelynn Wuestenberg on Twitter: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/31144078

Episode 230: Home-based Foods vs Cottage Foods 04/13/2024

Episode 230: Home-based Foods vs Cottage Foods In this episode, Olivia interviews Shannon Coleman, Associate professor and State Extension Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss Home-based Foods vs. Cottage Foods! This episode is packed with great information for anyone in the industry or thinking about joining! Episode Links: • Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing: • Jams and Jelly Fact Sheet: • Iowa Food Safety Task Force: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/30805038

Episode 229: Livestock Enterprise Budgets 03/21/2024

Episode 229: Livestock Enterprise Budgets In this episode, Olivia interviews Tim Christensen, Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss some of the tools available through Iowa State University's Ag Decision Maker! One useful tool you can find on the site is the Livestock Enterprise Bidget sheets! These are completely free for you to utilize and can really help with your overall business plan! Episode Links: • Ag Decision Maker Livestock Enterprise Budgets: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/30477713

Episode 228: Small Meat Processor Workshop 03/13/2024

Episode 228: Small Meat Processor Workshop Tune in as Olivia interviews Dan Nieland, Small Business Education Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, They discuss the upcoming Small Meat Processor Workshop that will take place on April 25, 2024, at the Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center (2508 Mortensen Rd. Ames, IA 50011). This is a free workshop but registration is required no later than April 10, 2024! Episode Links: • Registration Link: • Dan Nieland: • Farm, Food, and Enterprise Development News Release: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/30328038

Episode 227: Fruit Crop Update 03/08/2024

Episode 227: Fruit Crop Update Tune in as Olivia interviews Radall Vos, Commercial Fruit Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss what is going on with fruit crops this year and how has this warm front effected the plants? Also is there time to still get new crops planted? If so, when should we plant and where should we purchase them? Episode Links: • Fruit Cultivars of Iowa: • Facebook: • Instagram: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/30296053

Episode 226: Landowner Education Program 03/03/2024

Episode 226: Landowner Education Program Tune in as Olivia interviews Catherine DeLong, Water Quality Program Manager with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss the new Landowner Education Program being offered through Iowa State University Extension and Outreach! This unique learning experience will bring together experts on conservation, agronomy, financial and legal topics. Landowners will have the opportunity to learn from ISU experts and from each other as part of a small learning group. Episode Links: • Apply now to be a part of the first cohort: • Catherine DeLong: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/30203033

Episode 225: Crop Insurance Options 02/16/2024

Episode 225: Crop Insurance Options Tune in as Christa interviews Kelsey Willardson, Policy Associate for the Center for Rural Affairs. In this episode, we dive into the world of crop insurance, focusing on tailored options for organic and specialty crop growers. Gain valuable insights to help you navigate and choose the insurance solution that aligns with your needs. Don't miss out on essential information to make informed decisions in your agricultural journey! Episode Links: • United States Department of Agriculture, Risk Management Agency (USDA, RMA): • Center for Rural Affairs: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29985908

Episode 224 - Lawn and Ornamental Planning on the Acreage 02/09/2024

Episode 224 - Lawn and Ornamental Planning on the Acreage Join Olivia in an engaging conversation with Tina Krug, Assistant Teaching Professor at Iowa State University. In this episode, we delve into the world of lawn and ornamental planning as we anticipate the arrival of spring. Explore visually stunning alternatives that not only elevate the charm of your space but also prioritize environmental sustainability. Tune in for insightful discussions on making eco-friendly choices for your acreage, and let the spirit of spring inspire your landscaping decisions! Episode Links: •Tina Krug: | • North Creek Nursery: • Prairie Moon Nursery: • Van Engelen Bulbs: • State Forest Nursery: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29876478

Episode 223: Kidding Preparations 01/12/2024

Episode 223: Kidding Preparations Tune in as Olivia interviews Carolyn Ihde, Iowa State University and University of Wisconsin Small Ruminant Specialist. In this episode, we discuss important things to keep in mind when going into the kidding season! From before the birth, all the way to weening the kids, there are a lot of different things to consider to keep both the Does and Kids safe and healthy, especially in the cold winter months! Episode Links: •Carolyn Ihde: [email protected] • University of Wisconson-Madison (Livestock Division of Extension): • Small Ruminant Webinar Series: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29463768

Episode 222: Farm Transitions Conference 01/03/2024

Episode 222: Farm Transitions Conference Tune in as Christa interviews Kitt Tovar-Jensen, Staff Attorney with the Center for Agricultural Law & Taxation at Iowa State University. In this episode, we discuss the importance of planning for farm transitions as well as the Farm Transitions Conference that will be held in Ames, Iowa (and online) February 8-9, 2024. Whether you want to begin farming, you are looking to transition your farm business to the next generation, or you are a producer somewhere in between, this conference is for you! It will teach you about opportunities, pitfalls to avoid, and tools required for a successful farm transition! Episode Links: • Farm Transitions Conference: • Kitt Tovar-Jensen: Phone (515-294-5608) Email () /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29327633

Episode 221: Turfgrass and the Cyclone Field 12/28/2023

Episode 221: Turfgrass and the Cyclone Field Tune in as Olivia interviews Adam Thoms, Assistant Professor and Iowa State University Extension & Outreach Turfgrass Specialist, Joe Hill, Manager of Turf & Grounds with Iowa State University Athletics, and Michael Young, Assistant Manager of Turf & Grounds with Iowa State University Athletics. In this episode, we discuss the benefits of having a natural field for athletes to play on as well as how they maintain the natural field! Episode Links: • Iowa State University Extension store (lawn): /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29263488

Episode 220: Cyber Security 12/21/2023

Episode 220: Cyber Security Tune in as Christa interviews Alexis Stevens, Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss the importance of cyber security and how even our small farm business could be at risk. Alexis gives us a few tips on how we can protect ourselves and talks about the upcoming Cyber Security on the Farm Conference being held in Ames at the Iowa State Alumni Center on January 11, 2024. Episode Links: •Cyber Security on the Farm Conference: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29184968

Episode 219: Historical Apples and Seed Savers 12/14/2023

Episode 219: Historical Apples and Seed Savers Tune in as Olivia interviews Jamie Hanson, Orchard Manager at Seed Savers Exchange. In this episode we learn about Seed Savers and their efforts to saving historic apples! Did you know you can actual visit their orchard in Decorah, Iowa and pick apples for free? Episode Links: • Seed Savers: • Jamie Hanson: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/29083208

Episode 218: Winter Wildlife Habitat 12/08/2023

Episode 218: Winter Wildlife Habitat Tune in as Olivia interviews Adam Janke, Wildlife Specialist with Iowa State University Extension & Outreach. In this episode they discuss winter wildlife habitat! What can we do to enrich wildlife habitat this winter, as well as things we can incorporate into our land and yard so we can enjoy the different wildlife that spends their winters here with us in Iowa! Episode Links: • Natural Resource Stewardship Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: • Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR): • Iowa DNR Wildlife Landowner Assistance: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28992638

Episode 217: 2024 Iowa Specialty Producers Conference 12/04/2023

Episode 217: 2024 Iowa Specialty Producers Conference In this episode, Christa interviews Olivia Hanlon, Executive Secretary with the Iowa Specialty Crop Grower's Association, as well as Christie Jensen, Executive Director of the Iowa Wine Grower's Association. Tune in as they discuss the 2024 Iowa Specialty Producers Conference coming up on January 8-9 as well as the Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association's Post Conference Workshops which will be on January 10, 2024! Learn how you can get discounted registration and be sure to register early for extra saving with "early bird" pricing! Episode Links: • Iowa Specialty Producers Conference: • Iowa Specialty Crop Growers Association: • Iowa Wine Growers Association: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28920573

Episode 216: Women in Ag Leadership Conference 11/03/2023

Episode 216: Women in Ag Leadership Conference In this episode, Olivia interviews Madeline Schultz, Women in Ag Program Manager with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, as well as Rylee Sloss & Kiley Allan, interns with the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Women in Ag Program. Tune in as they discuss the conference coming up as well as talk about some of the exciting speakers that will be joining them this year! Episode Links: • Women in Ag Website: • Women in Ag Facebook Page: • Conference Registration: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28506929

Episode 215: Fall Bulbs and Cold Weather Planning for Flower Beds 10/24/2023

Episode 215: Fall Bulbs and Cold Weather Planning for Flower Beds Do you have flower beds around your yard? In this episode, Olivia interviews Aaron Steil, Consumer Horticulture Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, where they discuss what we should be doing this fall to get our flower beds ready for the cold season. Aaron also explains some different plants we can bring inside to overwinter and be replanted in the spring! Episode Links: • Iowa State University Extension and outreach Horticulture and Home Pest News: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28400603

Episode 214: Whitetail Deer and Bobcats in Iowa 10/18/2023

Episode 214: Whitetail Deer and Bobcats in Iowa In this episode, Olivia interviews Tyler Harms, Wildlife Biometrician with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Listen in as they discuss whitetail deer and bobcat populations in Iowa and discover where to look if you're hoping to see a bobcat! Episode Links: • Iowa Department of Natural Resources: • Hunting Regulations: • Population and Harvest Trends: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28359590

Episode 213: Fall Garden Tasks 10/06/2023

Episode 213: Fall Garden Tasks In this episode, Olivia interviews Aaron Steil, Consumer Horticulture Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Tune in as they talk about garden tasks in the fall and Aaron gives some tips and reasons why some things are better done in the fall versus the spring! Episode Links: • Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Horticulture and Homepest News: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28246193

Episode 212: Fall Depredation Consideration 09/22/2023

Episode 212: Fall Depredation Consideration In this episode, Olivia interviews Andy Kellner, Wildlife Biologist with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources. Tune in as they discuss some considerations folks can take when it comes to wildlife and depredation. There are resources for landowners who have problem wildlife that Andy mentions as well as advice on preventing problematic wildlife from inhabiting your land. Episode Links: • Iowa Department of natural Resources: • Landowner Assistance from the Iowa DNR: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28114835

Episode 211: Invasive Species 09/13/2023

Episode 211: Invasive Species In this episode, Olivia interviews Adam Janke, Associate Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist for Iowa State University. Tune in to learn more about different invasive species around Iowa, whether that's plants, animals, or bugs, Adam is full of knowledge! Episode Links: • Invasive Species in Iowa: • Chemical Control of Unwanted Vegetation: • Forestry Contacts: • Wildlife Habitat Programs and Consultation Contacts: • Midwest Invasive Plant Network: • Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Forest Invasive Species Guide: • Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Aquatic Invasive Species: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/28025010

Episode 210: Choose Iowa with Secretary Mike Naig 09/07/2023

Episode 210: Choose Iowa with Secretary Mike Naig In this episode, Olivia interviews Secretary Mike Naig about their Choose Iowa Program. Tune in to learn more about how you can become a member and/or if you could take advantage of the Choose Iowa Grant opportunity! Episode Links: • Choose Iowa Homepage: • Become a Member: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/27962901

Episode 209: Greenhouse Short Course 09/01/2023

Episode 209: Greenhouse Short Course In this episode, Olivia interviews Dan Fillius, Commercial Vegetable and Specialty Crop Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Listen in as they discuss the eighth annual Greenhouse Short Course that will be held September 13, 2023, in the Garden Room at Reiman Gardens in Ames! Episode Links: • Registration: • Dan Fillius: Email: Phone: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/27915732

Episode 208: SARE Grant Opportunities 08/18/2023

Episode 208: SARE Grant Opportunities In this episode, Olivia interviews Christa Hartsook, Small Farms Program Coordinator with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the State Coordinator for the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program (SARE). Listen in as they discuss the grant opportunities SARE offers, who is eligible, where to apply, and when applications are due! Episode Links: • North Central Sustainable Agriculture and Education: • Christa Hartsook: Email: Phone: 515-294-4430 /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/27793011

Episode 207: Iowa State University Fruit and Vegetable Field Day 07/27/2023

Episode 207: Iowa State University Fruit and Vegetable Field Day In this episode, Olivia interviews Suzanne Slack, Fuit Crop Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. Tune in as they discuss the Iowa State University Fruit and Vegetable Field day happening August 8, 2023, at the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station (55519 170th St, Ames, IA 50010 from 2:00 pm until 5:30 pm with supper to follow! Episode Links: • Registration: • Suzanne Slack: Email: Phone: • Ajay Nair: Email: Phone: /episode/index/show/smallfarmsustainability/id/27582447

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