Maine Farmcast

From Barns to Biotech: The IDEXX Story and the Power of Diagnostics with Rick Linscott

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Glenda and Colt sit down with Rick Linscott, a retired senior scientist from IDEXX Laboratories, based in Westbrook, Maine. Rick reflects on his 35-year career with the Maine-based diagnostics company, tracing its evolution from early livestock and poultry testing to its global work in companion animal, water quality and biomedical diagnostics. Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at how diagnostic tools are developed, why livestock testing remains critical despite representing a smaller share of the market, and how Maine has become a hub for biotech innovation. * Learn about IDEXX [https://www.idexx.com/en/] * Livestock SNAP tests [https://www.idexx.com/en/livestock/livestock-tests/ruminant-tests/idexx-pregnancy-tests/pregnancy-and-diagnostic-tests/] This episode was recorded at the 2026 Maine Agricultural Trades Show in Augusta, Maine. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

A Passion for Wool: Spinning Stories and Sheep with Dr. Erin Percival Carter

On this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Glenda Pereira, assistant Extension professor and state dairy specialist with University of Maine Cooperative Extension, talks with Dr. Erin Percival Carter, associate professor of marketing at the University of Maine. Although Carter is a UMaine professor, the conversation focuses on her role as a diversified farmer, including her naturally colored Corriedale sheep flock, hand-spinning wool and the Maine Fiber Frolic. * Learn more about Carter’s research program [https://umaine.edu/business/people/erin-percival-carter/] * Maine Fiber Frolic [https://fiberfrolic.com/], June 6-7, 2026 * Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese Company [https://dairystatecheese.com/] University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Planning for Success in Animal Agriculture with Dr. Richard Brzozowski

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight sits down with longtime colleague, mentor and former Extension administrator Richard Brzozowski to reflect on a lifetime in agriculture and the realities of raising livestock. From early 4-H experiences and dairy farm work to decades of Extension service, Brzozowski shares stories that highlight how a passion for animals develops and why not everyone is naturally suited for livestock production. The conversation blends humor and hard-earned wisdom, offering listeners a candid look at what it truly means to work with animals. The discussion dives into the benefits and drawbacks of farm animal enterprises. Together, they explore how livestock can convert forage into valuable products, improve soil health and provide personal fulfillment while also requiring daily care, financial planning and risk management. From zoonotic diseases and market volatility to the importance of starting small and building a realistic business plan, the episode provides practical guidance for anyone considering livestock production, whether as a lifestyle or a business. University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Forage Quality: Preparing for a Successful First Cutting with Joe Lawrence

On this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Glenda Pereira, assistant extension professor and state dairy specialist for the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, speaks with Joe Lawrence, dairy forage systems specialist with the Cornell PRO-DAIRY team. Lawrence works with the New York dairy industry as a private-sector certified crop adviser and as a field crops educator for Cornell Cooperative Extension. They discuss key tips farmers should consider as they prepare for the spring planting and harvesting season. * Learn more about Joe Lawrence [https://cals.cornell.edu/people/joe-lawrence] * Dynamic Harvest Schedules [https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/5185aca2-e992-4026-a565-92320bcd3879/content] * Strategic Forage Storage Planning [https://ecommons.cornell.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/b38b5541-7d62-45de-9140-47279e1f9b4e/content] University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].

Revitalizing the Northeast Livestock Expo: Youth, Education, and Opportunity with Dana Brown

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Colt Knight talks with Dana Brown, a dairy nutritionist, former president of the Maine Beef Producers Association and livestock producer, about the revival and impact of the Northeast Livestock Expo, known as NELE. They discuss how the long-running Maine event has evolved into a multi-species educational experience that brings together youth, producers and industry partners. From its roots in livestock shows and sales, NELE now emphasizes hands-on learning and continues to connect young people with agriculture. The conversation highlights a renewed focus on youth development through beef judging clinics, livestock handling demonstrations, public speaking training and marketing competitions. Knight and Brown also discuss the challenges of rebuilding in-person programming after the COVID-19 pandemic and how NELE is adapting to meet the needs of today’s agricultural community. With free admission for youth, interactive learning opportunities and an emphasis on building confidence and communication skills, the episode underscores the importance of investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders. * Northeast Livestock Expo [https://extension.umaine.edu/livestock/event/northeast-livestock-expo/] * Northeast Livestock Expo Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/NELEMaine] The Northeast Livestock Expo wouldn’t be possible without these sponsors: United Ag and Turf - Northeast Chapter, Fairfield, Maine. Maine Association of Agricultural Fairs Rolleston Veterinary Services Maine Dairy Industry Association  Maine Fair Foundation  Pineland Farms Express Electric EEC, INC Central Maine Dairy Equipment Brookside Plumbing INC County Line Electric INC Frontier Trailers Alcom LLC 3D Equipment  Coops Trailer - ArrowQuip  University of Maine Cooperative Extension University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination [https://extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination].