January 2017

Canadian farmers are finding they can increase wheat yields — and reduce seed costs — by improving their grain quality and planting their own seed after cleaning. Dave Sutherland, who is developing a biostimulant called Lignition, tells us that treating wheat with Lignition improves seed vigor, leading to yield gains of 10% to 20% over certified seed of the […]

A detailed report by Moms Across America founder Zen Honeycutt (visit this link) reveals the sharp contrast between mothers’ health concerns on glyphosate and the continued assurance by Monsanto president Hugh Grant that Roundup has been, and continues to be, a safe and carefully approved product. Jan 28,2017 By Jerry Carlson — Zen questioned Hugh Grant

Practical Farmers of Iowa members Angela and John Tedesco of Johnston IA, have donated 13 acres of their 20-acre certified organic farm in Granger to Practical Farmers. It’s the first  land gift PFI has ever received. January 27, 2017 —  The Tedescos intend to ensure the land’s agricultural legacy, rich soils and reservoir of wildlife don’t succumb

One of the most enthusiastic annual gathering of farmers each winter is the Practical Farmers of Iowa Conference. It’s starting to outgrow the big Scheman Center at Iowa State University. Jan 24, 2016  Introduction by Jerry Carlson — I’ve been a PFI member and research participant many years. Our often-repeated byword here originated with PFI

In 1875, nearly 60% of America’s 38 million citizens worked on farms. Wounds from the Civil War were still fresh as the nation planned its first Centennial celebration. America’s premier farm publication — The Country Gentleman — was growing circulation rapidly and covered everything from global politics to recipes for molasses pie. And they did it in