Heavy Rains Impact Your Field, Fishing Spot & Freedom From Bugs

MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

While today's forecast calls for sunshine and no rain, we're still dealing with the implications of heavy rainfall from this spring and summer. Pam Jahnke sits down with NRCS Chief Terry Cosby who outlines the work the agency is doing to get money into producers' hands for conservation work. He says these practices can prevent erosion, runoff, and flooding issues.

Even fish look forward to dry days -- DNR Fisheries Supervisor Tom Meronek says heavy rain has diluted oxygen levels in areas like the Buffalo Lake Watershed, resulting in fish kill. Luckily, he says the impact won't be long-lasting.

Standing water around the yard and on the farm has also led to greater mosquito populations. State Entomologist PJ Liesch tells Charitee Seebecker that the Driftless Region and the Northwoods are really seeing the pressure. Wear bug spray!

The Farm Wisconsin Discovery Center is celebrating its sixth anniversary. Ben Jarboe takes us there in time for their celebration to kick off. Program manager Abigail Winkel says tens of thousands have walked through the facility since they opened in 2018. The biggest draw is the baby animals. About 750 calves have been born there -- you might get to see it this week!

Finally, Risk Manager Katie Burgess joins us from Ever.Ag. She says the latest milk production report emphasizes a geographic shift in the dairy industry. The Midwest is best when it comes to raising a dairy herd. New Mexico, Arizona, and California continue to see dairy sellouts, while Wisconsin and South Dakota see gains.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.