smallfarmsustainability's podcast Iowa State Universtiy Extension and Outreach Small Farm Sustainability

In this episode, Olivia chats with Randall Cass, Bee Extension Specialist at Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, for an enlightening discussion on starting your beekeeping journey in Iowa. From colony care to hive management, we explore the essential aspects you need to know. If you're considering taking up beekeeping, this is an episode you won't want to miss!
Episode Links: 
• Beekeeping-Enterprise Budget Series: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Beekeeping-Enterprise-Budget-Series
• Iowa State University Bee Program: https://bees.cals.iastate.edu/

In this episode, Christa sits down with Dennis Todey, Director of the USDA Midwest Climate Hub, and Madelynn Wuestenberg, Agricultural Climatology Specialist at Iowa State Extension and Outreach. As the weather shifts and farmers gear up for planting season, our focus turns to the forecast for the coming months. Join us for an insightful discussion on what lies ahead!
Episode Links: 
• Midwest Climate Hub Outlook: https://www.climatehubs.usda.gov/hubs/midwest/climate-outlooks 
• Sign up for their webinars: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/7528179497868100876 
• Weather and Climate with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach: https://naturalresources.extension.iastate.edu/climate 
• Madelynn Wuestenberg on Twitter: https://twitter.com/maddy_climate 

In this episode, Olivia interviews Shannon Coleman, Associate professor and State Extension Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss Home-based Foods vs. Cottage Foods! This episode is packed with great information for anyone in the industry or thinking about joining!
Episode Links: 
• Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing: https://dial.iowa.gov/ 
• Jams and Jelly Fact Sheet: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/15966 
• Iowa Food Safety Task Force: https://ia.foodprotectiontaskforce.com/ 

In this episode, Olivia interviews Tim Christensen, Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State Extension and Outreach. Tune in as we discuss some of the tools available through Iowa State University's Ag Decision Maker! One useful tool you can find on the site is the Livestock Enterprise Bidget sheets! These are completely free for you to utilize and can really help with your overall business plan! 
Episode Links: 
• Ag Decision Maker Livestock Enterprise Budgets: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/agdm/ldcostsreturns.html 

Tune in as Olivia interviews Dan Nieland, Small Business Education Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, They discuss the upcoming Small Meat Processor Workshop that will take place on April 25, 2024, at the Hansen Agricultural Student Learning Center (2508 Mortensen Rd. Ames, IA 50011). This is a free workshop but registration is required no later than April 10, 2024!
 
Episode Links: 
• Registration Link: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ezaODjDpnJltr3E  
• Dan Nieland: dnieland@iastate.edu 
• Farm, Food, and Enterprise Development News Release: https://www.extension.iastate.edu/ffed/small-meat-processor-workshop-be-held-april-25 

Tune in as Olivia interviews Radall Vos, Commercial Fruit Specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. In this episode, we discuss what is going on with fruit crops this year and how has this warm front effected the plants? Also is there time to still get new crops planted? If so, when should we plant and where should we purchase them?
Episode Links: 
• Fruit Cultivars of Iowa: https://store.extension.iastate.edu/product/Fruit-Cultivars-for-Iowa 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ISUExtensionFruit 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iowafruitguy/