MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

In 1937, three high school friends unknowingly began Wisconsin’s cranberry legacy, a tradition carried on today by grower Dave Zawistowski of Lake Nokomis Cranberries in Eagle River. Dave started working on the marsh as a child, managing operations by 19 and purchasing his own farm at 21. Now operating three cranberry farms with his family, he not only produces Wisconsin’s state fruit but also welcomes visitors to experience the harvest firsthand. Lake Nokomis offers cranberry products, marsh tours, and a chance to see the vibrant red fields during harvest season. Wisconsin remains the nation’s top cranberry producer, generating nearly $1 billion in economic impact. You can celebrate this legacy at the Eagle River Cranberry Festival, October 4-5, featuring fresh cranberries, cranberry-inspired foods and drinks, handmade goods, and live music at the Vilas County Fairgrounds. This podcast series is brought to you courtesy of Specialty Crop Block Grant 23-10. Learn more about how to engage with Wisconsin's agricultural tourism industry at https://gowiagtourism.com/ [https://gowiagtourism.com/]. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Wisconsin is very wet after large amounts of rain over the weekend, but this weekend could help dry it out. Ag meteorologist Stu Muck has the details. Harvest is underway for most, and this creates new dangers on the road. Lt. Bill Berger with the Wisconsin State Patrol motor carrier investigative unit, shares some tips for farmers when it comes to DOT standards and civilians for driving around the large machinery. Pam Jahnke has a chat with Ashley Huhn from the Steffes Group to give insight on what's selling at auctions.  Wisconsin is full of Dairy royalty which includes the National Guernsey Queen, Josie Bailey. Kiley Allan talks with her to learn more about how she fell in love with this breed.  Market advisor John Heinberg from Total Farm Marketing joins the show and says that the beef market is still holding strong, but New World Screwworm is now within 70 miles of the US borders. Argentina is also strengthening their soybean industry by implementing an Export Tax Cut.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Nadine Westphal fiercely advocates for agriculture as she shares the story of Hetzel-Westphal Farm. Located in Sauk County, the former beef operation is now 217 acres. They hope the operation will continue for years to come. With the help of Compeer Financial, the Mid-West Farm Report is recognizing farms that have been with families for over 100 years.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

William G. Zander tells the story of William and Marilyn Zander Dairy. This 200 head dairy in Dane County has overcome struggles and obstacles in farm life. Kathleen Statz shares her memories as well. With the help of Compeer Financial, the Mid-West Farm Report is recognizing farms that have been with families for over 100 years.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

RoseMary & Francis Ruplinger recall fond childhood memories as they tell the story of their 59 ½ acre farm. They recall an ice storm that provided particularly good sledding conditions. With the help of Compeer Financial, the Mid-West Farm Report is recognizing farms that have been with families for over 100 years.  See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.