Iowa State Study Shows Soil-Building Benefits of Organic Practices
(Posted on 5/23/2013)
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.

Remember Safe Farming Practices for Spring Planting
(Posted on 5/23/2013)
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has a series of publications, titled “Safe Farm,” that contain valuable information on safe farming techniques and tips. 

Baby Cut Carrots: Healthy or Harmful?
(Posted on 5/23/2013)
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.

Register Now for Family Economics and Financial Education Training
(Posted on 5/23/2013)
Iowa school children may be counting the days until summer vacation begins, but they may not realize that summer means “back to school” for their teachers. Registration is now open for the fourth annual Iowa Family Economics and Financial Education (FEFE) Teacher Training workshop Aug. 6-8 at Iowa State University.

Beef Management Series Set for ISU McNay Research Farm
(Posted on 5/22/2013)
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.

Nonprofit Workshops Offer Incentive for Attendees
(Posted on 5/21/2013)
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in Linn County is offering educational discounts to nonprofit professionals and organizations.  The remaining 2013 Nonprofit Management Academy workshops will be offered at a reduced rate — three workshops for the price of two.

Parents Can Help Preteens with Abduction Concerns
(Posted on 5/21/2013)
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.

Register Now for 2013 Iowa Grazing Conference
(Posted on 5/20/2013)
Producers who graze livestock are encouraged to register now for the 2013 Iowa Grazing Conference being held June 25-26 in Creston. This year’s event has classroom and field experiences.

Yard and Garden: Selecting Fruit Varieties
(Posted on 5/17/2013)
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.

Applications Now Open for 2013 Youth Culinary Challenge at Iowa State Fair
(Posted on 5/17/2013)
Iowa 4-H is inviting youth from across the state to showcase their skills in a competition that puts the knife to the board. The fourth annual “Cook This!” 4-H Culinary Challenge is Aug. 9-10, 2013, in the 4-H Exhibits Building at the Iowa State Fair.