MID-WEST FARM REPORT - MADISON

There's a new crop insurance product out that America's Dairyland producers might want to consider.  Beth Nelson, president of the National Alfalfa and Forage Alliance explains the high value of alfalfa as a stand-alone crop to the nation's farmers.  Yet, despite that value, the crop rates very low on engagement with current crop insurance products.  That's hopefully changing with a new insurance product that allows farmers to protect against not only volume loss, but market value loss.  Nelson explains that there's a special webinar explaining the options tomorrow.

Foggy start to a Monday morning with some rain on the way for the WI State Fair.  Stu Muck paints the picture.

It's the time of the year when classic tractor collectors feel comfortable bringing their treasure pieces out of storage.  Larry Lee caught up with some old iron enthusiasts at the Rudolph Classic Tractor Show.  They explain why the passion for the tractors and the stories they represent remains strong.

Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin has multiple engagement locations around the WI State Fairgrounds. Stephanie Hughes, dairy producer from Pittsville and board member of DFW explains to Pam Jahnke why the event's so important.  Hughes says from the practical information shared in the barns, to the dairy product highlight elevated in the Blue Ribbon Dairy Product Auction, you only see it all at the WI State Fair.  Paid for by Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

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The Rudolph, Wisconsin Old Tractor Club hosts its Old Tractor Show on the second Saturday every August.  Club President Brandon Behrens, Secretary-Treasurer Tina Lassa, and longtime member Ron Linzmeier talk to Mid-West Farm Report's Larry Lee about the history of the show, how it benefits the community, and the volunteers who keep it going.

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Liz-Sandy Sikitch with Door County Cherry Growers and Liz Matzke from the Mid-West Farm Report discuss sweet and tart cherries, and the many treats available at the Wisconsin State Fair.

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Alexandra Wolf with the Wisconsin Apple Growers Association talks with Liz Matzke from the Mid-West Farm Report, discussing apple varieties and the many apple treats available during the Wisconsin State Fair, including apple cider donuts.

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Jacee and Sara Johnson discuss showing sheep and their jewelry-making at the Wisconsin State Fair with Liz Matzke from the Mid-West Farm Report.

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It's being called the ultimate cheese and meat road trip! Teri Barr talks with organizer Javin Krenn with United Process Piping in Marshfield. He shares why this first-of-its-kind event is important, and how it's meant to help you explore small, locally-owned Central Wisconsin businesses, collect cheese and meat along the way, and spend the time with your family, too. 

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Maple syrup is an industry that we typically hear about when the weather is a little cooler. However, producers plan for upcoming seasons well in advance. Teri Barr sits down with Thersa Baroun tos discuss the producers' survey.

Stu Muck says it's going to feel like summer across the state this weekend.

Cream puffs are a staple at the Wisconsin State Fair! Farm Director Pam Jahnke talks all about it with Colton Grebe.

Wisconsin Pork Association is serving up protein at the Wisconsin State Fair.

To Daniel Hanke, the land he farms is a lot more than "just" land. It represents grit, determination adn tradition that has kept their century farm alive.

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Supporting Wisconsin's local food economy remained a priority during the latest legislative session. One area of continued attention is cottage food. Teri Barr talked with Michelle Ramirez-White, Government Relations Director with Wisconsin Farmers Union, to learn how it it can create new opportunities for home bakers while strengthening local economies.

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Christmas tree growers across the state are busy shaping the holidays. And Wisconsin is welcoming hundreds of growers and experts from around the country this month. Sarah Glitto, executive director of the Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association, tells Teri Barr why hosting this national gathering is a great way to put the spotlight on Wisconsin growers.

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Wisconsin is one of 13 states that now has the opportunity at enhanced crop insurance specifically for alfalfa.  Beth Nelson, president of the National Alfalfa and Forage Alliance (NAFA) explains the details to Pam Jahnke.

Alfalfa by itself is the nation's fourth most valuable field crop in the United States, but is not currently considered a Title One Row Crop.  It hasn't had much of a crop insurance option and because of that enrollment has been thin.  Until now.  Nelson says the new product that's been approved is brand new, and will ensure against yield and price losses - which is a first.

NAFA is holding a free webinar on Tuesday, August 11th to explain details and answer questions for any alfalfa and forage producers interested.  Register here, and remember the sales window for this specific product closes September 30th, so consult your crop insurance provider right away.

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