Articles

A crop scouting competition for high school youth is scheduled for Aug. 1 at the Iowa State University Extension Farm near Boone. High school students (those completing grades 9-12) are invited to compete and showcase their scouting abilities in corn and soybean during this one-day event.

Producers making the switch to organic crops to meet growing market demand not only fetch premium prices, according to a recent study; they also build healthy soil and sequester carbon, making organic agriculture a useful strategy for dealing with climate change.

Many people choose baby carrots as their snack. They are healthy, full of vitamins and are easy to eat and feed to children. But are they safe? Jody Gatewood, a nutrition specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, dispels the myths and explains the facts.

A four-part beef management discussion series has been scheduled for Iowa State University’s McNay Research and Demonstration Farm southwest of Chariton. The session dates are June 18, July 16, Aug. 26 and Sept. 10.

Parents naturally are concerned for their children’s safety, particularly when there is news of a child abduction that happens close to home. Finding the balance between emotions and the “teachable moment” as parents talk to their children is important, an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialist says.

What fruit varieties will perform well in Iowa? Horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach answer questions about selecting plum, pear, cherry and peach varieties. To have additional questions answered, contact Hortline at hortline@iastate.edu or 515-294-3108.

Iowa’s farmers are substantially involved in philanthropy, donating their time and money to organizations, causes and charities they believe in, according to the Iowa Farm and Rural Life Poll. Many rural communities are beginning to depend on these philanthropic efforts as an important part of local community and economic development.

Farmers being observant with seed treatments at planting and pesticide applications during the growing season could minimize ill effects on bee populations, according to Iowa State University entomologists.

Quality Machine of Iowa Inc. is featured in the spring issue of CIRAS News, the newsletter of the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Center for Industrial Research and Service. QMI has been working with CIRAS since 2010 to incorporate lean manufacturing principles and to expand the company’s customer base.