Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Around the Table

Discover why dandelions were prized for centuries as herbal heroes rather than weeds. From ancient Arabian medicine to colonial gardens, Reporter Liz Partsch explores the history of this vitamin-rich plant and shows us how to make a sweet, honey-like dandelion jam.

How-To's

We love sweet potatoes here at Farm and Dairy, and we think you should, too. Learn everything from planting slips and soil requirements to harvesting and storage tips. Discover why these heat-loving tubers are a low-maintenance, high-yield addition for any gardener.

Discover why dandelions were prized for centuries as herbal heroes rather than weeds. From ancient Arabian medicine to colonial gardens, Reporter Liz Partsch explores the history of this vitamin-rich plant and shows us how to make a sweet, honey-like dandelion jam.
Powering a Nation

Columns

Holstein dairy cows

June is Dairy Month, and there is plenty to celebrate. From small artisan farms to large herds, the U.S. dairy industry has boosted milk yields by 35% over 25 years while cutting its carbon footprint by 46%. Explore the latest trends driving dairy consumption and nutrition.

Naturalist Tami Gingrich explores the fascinating world of dragonflies, from their jet-propelled aquatic nymph stage to their role as agile mosquito-hunting aerial acrobats.

Recent droughts and unpredictable weather have given pasture weeds an advantage. Ohio State University Extension educator Ted Wiseman explains how to evaluate your fields, use targeted weed control, and implement smart grazing practices to rebuild a healthy, resilient stand of forage.
pigs

Industrial pork giants are pushing Congress to use the 2026 Farm Bill to overturn voter-approved state animal welfare laws. Why the 'Save Our Bacon Act' is a corporate carve-out that undermines states' rights and hurts independent farmers succeeding under humane standards.

Synthetic lawn fertilizers fuel harmful algal blooms and drain your wallet. Geauga SWCD explains how transitioning to natural, organic lawn care practices builds healthy soil, protects local water quality, and creates a low-maintenance yard that saves you money.
raccoon

Most cats aggressively guard their territory, but Kymberly Foster Seabolt's prefers to host guests. From a "raccoon cartel" to lounging possums, meet Kai: the feline social director who turned her porch into an interspecies wildlife sanctuary (leaving Kym wondering who is actually running the show).