Linder Farm Network Field Talk: Recent Episodes
Dan Lemke
The LFN Field Talk podcast addresses a wide range of agriculture and rural lifestyle topics. Field Talk will take a deeper dive into the issues confronting farming and agriculture today.
The nation's pork producers have dealt with significant economic and market challenges so far in 2023. Industry leaders are in Washington D.C. this week to talk with lawmakers and others about important policy issues including the 2023 Farm Bill, the EATS Act and more.
Drought conditions are likely to cost farmers more than yield this fall. River levels are dropping, meaning barge movement of grain could be hampered, potentially costing farmers money. Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the Soy Transportation Coalition joins this Field Talk podcast.
In portions of Minnesota, irrigation is necessary for growers to produce a crop. In 2023, the Minnesota state legislature made some changes to laws affecting irrigation, including toughening penalties and fines for irrigation permit violations. Irrigators Association of Minnesota President Jake Wildman and Tom Heyn from RD Offutt join this Field Talk podcast.
A new technical service and cost share initiative is now available to help provide assistance to farmers interested in including cover crops on their farm. The effort is jointly supported by the National Corn Growers Association, United Soybean Board and the National Pork Board. Easton farmer and National Pork Board director Dale Stevermer joins this podcast.
This Field Notes podcast from the University of Minnesota features Extension agronomists Dr. Jeff Coulter addressing corn issues and Dr. Seth Naeve addressing challenges with this year's soybean crop.
Outreach and education have become important features of today's agriculture. With fewer Minnesotan's directly tied to farming, the need to connect with people outside of agriculture has never been greater. Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation Promotion & Education Committee Chair Cindy Durheim discusses what MFBF is doing to foster connections.
Biofuel proponents are pushing for E15 inclusion year-round. While temporary waivers have been granted in recent years, ethanol advocates and others are hoping for a more permanent solution. Troy Bredenkamp of the Renewable Fuels Association joins this LFN Field Talk podcast.
More than 40 people provided testimony at the Farm Bill listening session held during Day 2 of Farmfest 2023. House Agriculture Committee Chair Glenn "GT" Thompson of Pennsylvania provided some closing remarks following the listening session.
Few industries are more affected by trade than agriculture. Doug McKalip, Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative was a featured speaker at Farmfest where he addressed the current situation on trade.
Inland waterways are an important artery for moving agricultural products. Once again, dry conditions are causing some disruptions to the supply chain, and not just in the U.S. Soy Transportation Coalition Executive Director Mike Steenhoek is this weeks Field Talk Podcast guest.
Dr. Kevin Smith is this week's guest on the MN CropCast podcast from the University of Minnesota Extension. Dr. Smith is a barley breeder, but is also working on oats and other emerging crops.
Rep. Michelle Fischbach and Rep. Brad Finstad have introduced an important piece of legislation for Farm Bill consideration called the Investing in Rural America Act. Compeer Financial Chief Mission Office John Monson joined the LFN to explain why this is needed.
The Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation's Young Farmers and Ranchers program provides leadership development, educational training and networking opportunities for young producers. Cass County rancher Katie Wiese is on the YF&R committee and she joins this Field Talk podcast.
A multi-year study is underway in Lamberton to evaluate where nitrogen goes once it’s placed in the ground. The comprehensive project is examining how much of the fertilizer plants use and how much is lost to the atmosphere or ground water. Dr. Fabian Fernandez from the U of M and graduate student/researcher Zac Aanerud detail the study in this Field Talk podcast.
Mental health is a serious issue in all parts of the country, including agriculture and rural communities. Minnesota Con. Tom Emmer joined the Linder Farm Network to talk about an effort he is leading to allocate more resources to the issue.
Dry conditions are worsening across much of Minnesota as rainfall remains in short supply. Minnesota State Climatologist Kenny Blumenfeld joins this Field Talk podcast to shed more light on the conditions and the hope for improvement.
This University of Minnesota CropCast features Soybean Agronomist Dr. Seth Naeve who talks about why he traveled to Indonesia last week and what makes Indonesia relevant to farmers from the upper Midwest.
Minnesota is one of the nation's top pork producing states, so it stands to reason that Minnesota farmers hold key leadership roles within the industry. In this Field Talk podcast, we talk with Minnesota farmers Terry Wolters, past president of the National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and Lori Stevermer, NPPC president elect. National Pork Board member Dale Stevermer also provides input on the state of the pork industry.
This week’s University of Minnesota Extension "Minnesota CropCast” has as its guest Tom Hoverstad, Researcher at the Southern Research and Outreach Center in Waseca. Hoverstad provided an update about this season’s weather and its effect so far on the growth of the area’s corn and soybean crops.
Despite rising input costs and climbing interest rates, farmland values across Minnesota have remained strong. Chuck Wingert with Hertz Farm Management joins this podcast to explain what's happening with land values and why.
There is no shortage of economic factors facing farmers, including diesel and fertilizer costs. American Farm Bureau Federation economist Veronica Nigh was a featured speaker at the recent Minnesota Farm Bureau annual meeting and addressed some of those economic issues.
As the saying goes, elections have consequences. Former U.S. Congressman Collin Peterson joins Lynn Ketelsen to discuss how he thinks the recent election results will impact agriculture.
Soil productivity and health is something most farmers strive for each year. The annual Soil Management Summit brings together researchers, farmers and industry experts who are interested in learning more about improving soil health. University of Minnesota Extension Educator Jodi Dejong-Hughes joins this Field Talk Podcast to talk about the Summit and soil health.
The Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance has unveiled the U.S. Identity Preserved quality assurance plan and brand mark at an event in Vietnam. SSGA leaders say the move symbolizes a landmark advancement in the verification of trust, traceability and value for food manufacturers, processors and exporters. SSGA Executive Director Eric Wenberg joins Dan Lemke to explain the program.
Tar spot is a relatively new concern for corn farmers in Minnesota, but the disease took a toll on some corn yields this fall. Golden Harvest Agronomy Manager Steve Wilkens joins Linda Brekke to talk about issues with tar spot and what growers can do about it.
The November 8th election is just days away. Former Minnesota Congressman Gil Gutknecht joins Lynn Ketelsen to talk about issues of concern heading into election day.
Harvest may be winding down in many areas of Minnesota, but the season for getting grain to markets is in full swing. Transportation challenges, including low water levels on working rivers and a potential rail strike in the weeks ahead are disrupting the normal flow of products. Mike Steenhoek with the Soy Transportation Coalition assess the current situation in this Field Talk podcast.
Midwest soybeans are in demand around the world for meal and oil that provide nutrition for animals and people. On this Field Talk podcast, Linda Funk, Executive Director of the Soyfoods Council joins us to talk about the role of soy in human nutrition.
Fall is harvest time for most Minnesota crops, including apples. Minnesota may not be among the top apple producing states, but there are more than 100 commercial apple orchards scattered across the state. One of those orchards is Timberlake Orchard near Fairmont. Owner Al Zeitz joins this Field Talk podcast.
Dr. Scott Jensen is the Republican candidate for governor in Minnesota. Dr. Jensen recently joined Lynn Ketelsen to address some of the concerns he sees for rural Minnesota.
The Linder Farm Network's Lynn Ketelsen was recently inducted into the Minnesota Broadcasting Hall of Fame. In this Field Talk podcast, find out how Lynn became one of the most recognizable farm broadcasters in the country. Lynn sat down with Jeff Stewart of the Linder Farm Network to reflect on his 40+ years in broadcasting.
Biofuels have become and integral part of the move to decarbonize many sectors, including transportation. Biofuels are no longer grounded as demand for sustainable aviation fuel grows. Tom Verry with Clean Fuels Alliance America joins this podcast to talk about the potential for sustainable aviation fuel.
Auctions remain an effective way to buy and sell products of all kinds, including farmland and ag equipment. Farmers looking to hold an auction yet this fall still have time to make it happen, but as Jeff Stewart discusses with Ashley Huhn of the Steffes Group, planning ahead usually delivers the best results.
A new soybean oil with Minnesota roots has gotten a boost from the National Institutes of Health. Research has shown TruSoya soybean oil could have significant benefits for heart health. Kim Nill with Minnesota Soybean is our guest on this week's podcast to tell us more about TruSoya.
California officials have moved to ban the sale of new internal combustion engine-powered vehicles in 2035. Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association President Scott Lambert joins this episode of the Field Talk podcast to give his perspective on what that means for Minnesota.
One of the nation's largest auction companies is expanding in Minnesota. Ashley Huhn with the Steffes Group joins this podcast to talk about their expansion plans in Litchfield.
Since the 1980s, the Minnesota Farm Advocate program has provided one-on-one assistance to farmers facing crisis from either economic conditions or natural disaster. On this week's podcast, we talk with Farm Advocate Steve Zenk to learn more about the program and how it helps Minnesota farm families through challenging circumstances.
For the first time, U.S. soybean meal has arrived in Uzbekistan. Minnesota soybean farmers played a key role in developing this initial entry into a market that has challenges and potential. Patrick O'Leary, a farmer from Benson and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council director explores the background and potential of this historic shipment.
The U.S. Senate has passed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which includes domestic energy incentives and other provisions aimed at reducing carbon emissions. The House is expected to take up the bill soon. The bill's full impact is still unknown, but Brian Jennings, CEO of the American Coalition for Ethanol provides some insight on what it could mean for ethanol.
Following a rousing debate between Governor Tim Walz and GOP candidate Scott Jensen, both candidates joined Lynn Ketelsen along with Rod Hebrink and John Monson of Compeer for the Midday Farm Review at Day 2 of Farmfest. Scott Lambert of the MN Automobile Dealers Association was another guest of the show.
Lynn Ketelsen and Dan Lemke were joined at Farmfest for the Midday Farm Review by state and national ag organization leaders. Find out what these organizations are prioritizing.
The farm bill has far reaching impact on farmers because of important titles like crop insurance, nutrition, conservation, marketing and much more. Former Minnesota Congressman Collin Peterson had a hand in crafting numerous farm bills while serving on the House Ag Committee. Peterson joined Lynn Ketelsen to give his insights into factors that could affect the 2023 Farm Bill.
For more than 30 years, educational and candidate forums have drawn thousands of visitors to Farmfest. Planning for the forums begins long before the event takes place. Farmfest forum coordinator Kent Thiesse joins this episode of the Field Talk Podcast to talk about the process and highlight what's happening at Farmfest 2022.
Soybeans are one of Minnesota's most important crops. Used for everything from livestock feed and biodiesel to food and even tires, global demand is strong. Farm leaders, researchers and industry representatives will gather next week for the Future of Soybeans event designed to identify future needs and to consider the next big thing for soybeans.
Slices of Americana exist in many corners of the United States. One gem that celebrates the country's rugged natural beauty and the president who was shaped by it is Medora, North Dakota. Medora is the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Lynn Ketelsen was recently in Medora and learned more about the nation's 26th president.
Palmer amaranth is an extremely troublesome weed that is fast growing, produces a tremendous amount of seed, and is resistant to numerous herbicides. Anthony Cortilet with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture joins this Field Talk Podcast to talk about the current situation with the weed and how farmers can stay one step ahead.
Farmfest is Minnesota's premier outdoor farm show featuring equipment demonstrations, new technologies and political forums. With 2022 an election year, the forums promise to generate plenty of excitement.
A tool developed during the COVID-19 pandemic is giving farmers remote access to expertise from University of Minnesota crop specialists to help identify potential disease issues. Angie Peltier with the University of Minnesota Extension joins this Field Talk podcast to introduce us to the Digital Crop Doc.
Selling farm real estate via auction is very different than selling equipment. The Linder Farm Network's Jeff Stewart talks with Ashley Huhn of the Steffes Group to learn more about real estate auctions.
The Minnesota Automobile Dealers Association has filed a lawsuit in an effort to stop Minnesota's clean cars rule which ties the state to standards set by California's Air Resources Board. Minnesota Auto Dealers Association President Scott Lambert joins Lynn Ketelsen to highlight the association's opposition.
Rising fuel prices are affecting every sector of the economy. Lance Klatt, Executive Director of the Minnesota Service Station Association joins the Linder Farm Network to talk about issue surrounding fuel and electric vehicles.
With prices for new equipment soaring and the availability of new implements questionable at times, the value of used equipment remains strong. Ashley Huhn of the Steffes Group discusses the auction process and just how active equipment auctions can be.
Preparation is the key to success in most endeavors, including farm auctions. Jeff Stewart talks with Ashley Huhn of the Steffes Group to learn more about some of the pre-auction considerations that can make the event successful.
The primary election to fill the vacant First District congressional seat is just days away. Matt Benda, a southern Minnesota native and Albert Lea agriculture law attorney is a Republican candidate for the seat. Benda recently sat down with Lynn Ketelsen.
May is World Trade month, which celebrates the contributions of trade and recognizes the importance of trade to the economy. Nowhere is that more evident than in agriculture. U.S. Grains Council Vice President Cary Sifferath joins us on this episode to discuss the Grains Council's role and the importance of keeping channels open.
Primary election day for the vacant congressional seat in Minnesota's First District is May 24 with winners advancing to the general election later this summer. State Representative Jeremy Munson of Lake Crystal is one of several Republican candidates seeking the office. He joined the Linder Farm Network's Lynn Ketelsen.
For more than 4 years, the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council has been working on a value-added project that involves the development of a new high oleic soybean called TruSoya. This effort also includes specialized processing and aquaculture nutrition. CEO Tom Slunecka joins this Field Talk podcast to detail the project.
Minnesota's gubernatorial race will be heating up in the coming months with numerous candidates seeking the state's highest office. Recently Lynn Ketelsen talked with Kendall Qualls, one of the candidates running for governor.
For more than 4 decades, the Northern Crops Institute (NCI) has worked to enhance market opportunities for crops grown in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana. NCI Director Mark Jirik joins us for this Field Talk podcast to talk about the organization's role and the impacts of its work.
Whether it's land, farm equipment or other miscellaneous items, a lot goes into a successful auction. One of the Midwest's leading auction teams is the Steffes Group. Linder Farm Network's Jeff Stewart sat down with Ashley Huhn to learn more about the company and the auction business.
A farmer-led program called Rural Investment to Protect our Environment (RIPE) is taking a novel approach to carbon sequestration and other environmental practices that have public benefit. In this episode of the Linder Farm Network Field Talk podcast, we talk to a former USDA official and a Minnesota dairy farmer who are helping lead the way in the development of the RIPE100 program.
Former Minnesota State representative and USDA Rural Development state director for Minnesota Brad Finstad is one of several Republican candidates for the First District Congressional seat left vacant at the passing of Con. Jim Hagedorn. Finstad outlines some of his stances on this Field Talk podcast with Lynn Ketelsen.
Agriculture is in a constant state of change as economic, political and social influences evolve. The U.S. Farmer and Ranchers in Action or USFRA, is a collaborative organization that contends farmers can be positive agents of change for shaping the future of agriculture and much more. USFRA board member and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council director Rochelle Krusemark joins for this Field Talk podcast.
Biofuels hold great potential for helping to reduce carbon emissions and greenhouse gases in light and heavy duty applications. A new engine technology could help open even more avenues for ethanol.
Programs designed to pay farmers to sequester carbon have proliferated in recent years. Each program has its own features. A unique program called the Soil and Water Outcomes fund operates in several states. Adam Kiel with AgOutcomes explains the program in this Field Talk podcast.
A special election is being held in Minnesota's First Congressional District following the death of Con. Jim Hagedorn. One of the candidates for the seat is Kevin Kocina of Red Wing. He talked with the Linder Farm Network's Lynn Ketesen about his campaign.
Minnesota is one of the nation's leaders in the development and usage of biodiesel. What began as a farmer-led effort to use excess soybean oil has grown into a sustainable industry with expanding potential. Minnesota Soybean's Mike Youngerberg has been a key figure in the growth and development of biodiesel.
Former state lawmaker and USDA Rural Development director Brad Finstad has joined the field of candidates vying for Congress in Minnesota's First District. FInstad, who has a long history working in agriculture and policy, joins Lynn Ketelsen on this Field Talk podcast.
Candidates are lining up for numerous local, state and federal elections. Even though the 2022 election is still months away, candidates are working to get voters familiar with their positions. Minnesota gubernatorial candidate Dr. Scott Jensen and his running mate Matt Birk have hit the ground running with stops that included a visit with Lynn Ketelsen.
Half of the checkoff Minnesota soybean farmers contribute is used to fund research and promotion activities in Minnesota, while the other half goes to national efforts through the United Soybean Board. Those funds are overseen by farmers from across the nation, including Martin County farmer Lawrence Sukalski who joins the Field Talk podcast to highlight USB priorities.
Minnesota has an abundance of ag-based assets, but the industry faces challenges on many fronts. GreenSeam Executive Director Sam Ziegler joins the Field Talk podcast to highlight what his organization is doing to foster development in the food and ag sectors, and addresses the upcoming State of Agriculture report.
Former U.S. Congressman from Minnesota Gil Gutknecht joined Lynn Ketelsen to give his perspective on the invasion of Ukraine and how U.S. agriculture will be impacted.
These are interesting times in the soybean industry. Weather concerns in South America are rallying prices, which follows on the heels of a record export year. Demand for biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel is also changing dynamics. What does it all mean? We find out more from MN Soybean Director of Market Development Kim Nill.
Orion Samuelson is one of the most recognized farm broadcasters in the country. HIs career in radio and television has spanned decades. Orion joined Lynn Ketelsen to talk about his career and changes in agriculture.
The Minnesota Board of Animal Health (BAH) works to protect the health of the state’s domestic animals through education and cooperation with veterinarians, producers, owners and communities. Diseases are a major concern for livestock and poultry producers in the state. BAH President Dean Compart is this week's guest on the LFN Field Talk podcast.
Legendary Canadian farm broadcaster Harry Siemens joins Lynn Ketelsen to discuss the ongoing truckers strike in Canada.
A lot of thought and legwork goes into the process of determining what projects receive checkoff support. Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council director Kris Folland addresses how those decisions are made.
Meat exports are important to many sectors of the U.S. economy. Global demand has been very strong in recent months as we hear from U.S. Meat Export Federation CEO Dan Halstrom in this episode of Field Talk.
Biodiesel and renewable diesel are growing opportunities for Minnesota as states and entities work toward a low carbon future. Minnesota farmer Jim Willers and Clean Fuels Alliance America's Tom Verry join on this episode of Field Talk.
For more than 20 years the Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership program has helped to identify and develop leaders to move rural Minnesota forward. Olga Brouwer, MARL Executive Director joins the Field Talk podcast to highlight the program and its impacts.
Farmers contribute to the soybean checkoff, but what does it do and is is delivering a return on grower investment? Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council CEO Tom Slunecka joins Dan Lemke in this Field Talk podcast.
We talk all things soybean with University of Minnesota Extension soybean agronomist Dr. Seth Naeve. We'll recap 2021 and learn more about the research Naeve is conducting around Minnesota.
This episode introduces us to Lakril Technologies, a company using breakthrough technology to put corn into new and exciting places. We'll also talk with the chair of the U.S. Soybean Export Council about efforts to increase preference for U.S. soy products around the world.