New USDA/ARS research on soil health shows “Soil microbial diversity based on polyphasic microbial analysis was restored by Vitazyme in soils planted to maize and soybean treated with glyphosate. A high microbial diversity is essential to maintain a stable ecosystem and crop productivity.” Dec. 18, 2017 — Field trials in 2014-17 by Ag Research Service scientists based […]

We’re working for “clearance” to report how dairymen in more than a dozen states are converting to non-GMO corn, soybeans and grass forages — and seeing net profit per lactating cow rise by as much as $1,000 a year. Somatic cell counts drop. Cow life extends from a U.S. average of less than two lactations to five,

Renewable Farming team member Blake Carlson returned from the Bionutrient Food Association’s “7th Annual Soil & Nutrition Conference” in Southbridge, Massachusetts, loaded with ideas on improving soil health and human nutrition.  Dec. 8, 2017   By Jerry Carlson — One of the most significant conference themes was how the blend of microbial communities impacts total nutrient uptake

Video cameras on every smartphone and direct links to the internet bring you the power to literally show millions of people worldwide what you’re learning. When a video “goes viral,” it can multiply to millions of viewers in a global flood that no government or mainstream media gatekeeper can spike. This power is amplifying video stories published

One of the first visions for turning corn into ethanol for motor fuel on an industrial scale originated 60 years ago this month. I was there to hear that recommendation — made to board members of the Iowa Farm Bureau. Dec. 4, 2017  By Jerry Carlson — In December 1957, my father, Glenn A. Carlson, urged the

This fall, AgriEnergy Resources of Princeton, IL celebrates 30 years of growth by providing farmers with a full range of biological, organic and conventional fertility products and services. We’ve delighted to share the entire adventure with enthused, profitable clients — who are also good friends.  Dec. 2, 2017   By Jerry Carlson — In 1987, Dave Larson and his wife Carolyn

“Biofilter” and “Bioreactor” are terms used by the Natural Resources and Conservation Service for filter beds built of wood chips and similar natural materials. They’re intended to extract nitrates and other pollutants in runoff water from field tile and surface drainage. The challenge at our farm is the surge of storm runoff from 100 acres of a neighbor’s watershed. For years the

Thanksgiving is especially meaningful to American farmers for at least two reasons. First, it reflects the roots of America’s heritage, all the way back to the Pilgrims who first observed a feast of thanksgiving in the Plymouth Colony in autumn 1620. Second, it underscores that food abundance produced by farmers is foundational to our national well-being.

On Nov. 28-30, Renewable Farming will take an introductory look at a new, handheld instrument which will help producers, food retailers and buyers get an instant indication of quality in the product. Bionutrient meter schematic Nov. 17, 2017 — That’ll take some training and experience, of course. But the learning curve should be rather short