Water
Pursuit Of Grants Alters Washington Extension Priorities
This is the fifth story in a series about the future of Extension. Contrary to the opinions of most of his old professors, Tim Smith is not a loser. In fact, he's quite highly regarded... more »
Final Report Issued in Bagged Spinach Incident
In a display of detective skills worthy of Sherlock Holmes, state and federal investigators hunted down the bacteria that caused 205 people in 26 states to become ill and three to die last September after... more »
Globalization Hits Michigans Asparagus Industry
The challenge seemed reasonable and clear. Without unity in the asparagus industry, it won't survive long. said Ron Armstrong, sales president of Honee Bear Canning in Lawton, Mich. On that point, there was – and... more »
Expert Recommends Drip Irrigation for Higher-Return Crops
Growers with higher-return crops should switch to drip irrigation, an irrigation expert advised. "There are so many advantages to using drip irrigation," said Ron Goldy, a Michigan State University (MSU) Southwest District vegetable agent. "If... more »
Fruit, Vegetable Industries Have Fresh Reason for Hope
Trade show season always is exciting because you get the entire industry together to talk about the past growing season and the possibilities of the future. One of the most upbeat trade shows I've attended... more »
Ontario Grower Jumps into Growing Vegetables
Ontario vegetable grower Mike Pastir didn't fall into the farming game by accident. He jumped into it. And the 24-year-old enjoys where he landed, despite the many challenges. "Agriculture's gravy years are over," said Pastir,... more »
Biodegradable Mulch Films Aid in Sweet Corn Production
Many sweet corn growers are using clear plastic (polyethylene) mulch to warm the soil and to advance harvest maturity. The use of clear plastic mulch may also improve seed germination and increase plant stand under... more »
Regions Work More Closely Together to Sell Crop
The threat of offshore fresh asparagus imports is bringing North American asparagus growers closer together. There are tentative plans to cooperate on research and even marketing, according to representatives of Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board, the... more »
High Tunnels Bring High Returns
Production of fruit and vegetables in high tunnels is growing rapidly, with new growers and new crops finding their comfort zone under those plastic roofs and walls. Producers packed the session on high tunnel production... more »
Washington State on Drought Watch
The irrigation outlook for Washington state this year is bad – one of the worst ever. Unless there are massive rainstorms during the spring and summer, there's not going to be enough water. Authorities are... more »