The Clever Cow

In this episode, host Savanah Carpenter sits down with Dr. Erin Brooks, professor in the University of Idaho Department of Soil and Water Systems, and Galen Richards, a Ph.D. candidate in Water Resources.

The conversation explores why water is so important to Idaho agriculture and how water availability, water quality, nutrient management, soil health and crop production are all connected. Erin and Galen discuss how manure nutrients move through agricultural systems, practices that can help keep those nutrients in the soil and the importance of finding solutions that work under real farming conditions.

Galen also explains how he is using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool, or SWAT model, to study water use and nutrient movement in southern Idaho’s Magic Valley. The discussion covers how modeling, satellite imagery and precision-agriculture tools can help researchers and producers compare management strategies, monitor crop performance and prepare for challenges such as limited water supplies.

The episode also looks ahead to research opportunities at Idaho CAFE and how long-term, commercial-scale data could improve our understanding of irrigation, manure applications, nutrient cycling and soil health.

This episode marks the conclusion of The Clever Cow Podcast produced through the ISAID Grant and Savanah’s final episode as host. Thank you to every guest and listener who has been part of the podcast.

Learn more about Dr. Erin Brooks:

https://www.uidaho.edu/people/ebrooks

Learn more about Galen Richards:

https://www.uidahoisaid.com/galen-richards

Learn more about the ISAID Grant:

https://www.uidahoisaid.com/

Learn more about Idaho CAFE:

https://www.uidaho.edu/research/statewide/agriculture-food-environment

In this episode, host Savanah Carpenter sits down with Dr. Gilbert Miito, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Air Quality at the University of Idaho.

Dr. Miito shares his journey from growing up on a small dairy farm in rural Uganda to working with dairy producers and researchers in the United States. The conversation explores where emissions come from on dairy farms, how management practices influence air quality, and what practical solutions are emerging to reduce emissions while maintaining productivity.

Dr. Miito discusses promising feed strategies for reducing methane, manure management practices that can improve environmental outcomes, and the role of research and technology in helping producers make informed decisions. He also shares insights into how the upcoming Idaho CAFE research dairy will help scientists better understand emissions and evaluate solutions at a commercial scale.

This episode highlights the importance of practical research, collaboration with producers, and the continued innovation shaping the future of dairy sustainability.

Learn more about Dr. Gilbert Miito:

https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/gilbert_miito/overview

What does the future of dairy look like? On this episode, Savanah sits down with Dr. Mark McGuire, University Distinguished Professor and Program Director for the ISAID Grant, for a big-picture conversation about where dairy has been, and where it’s going. From climate-smart feed additives to manure-based fertilizers, Dr. McGuire shares what excites him most about the innovations reshaping the industry.

They discuss how science, technology, and industry consolidation are influencing modern production, and how producers can adapt while staying rooted in their values. Along the way, Dr. McGuire clears up common misconceptions about dairy, reflects on public perception, and offers grounded advice for navigating change. Plus, hear his thoughts on beef-on-dairy, carbon markets, robotic milking, and the importance of keeping consumers connected to agriculture.

Whether you’re a dairy producer, student, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode delivers a thoughtful and forward-looking take on sustainable dairy.

Dr. Mark McGuire: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/mark_mcguire/overview

In this episode, Dr. Kattlyn Wolf, Professor of Agricultural Education at the University of Idaho, and Melissa Renfrow, graduate student and education lead within the Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID Grant), discuss how the education pillar of the grant is preparing students to lead the future of sustainable dairy.

They explore how workshops, hands-on learning experiences, and professional development opportunities are building student confidence and expanding their understanding of the dairy industry. From on-farm tours and career panels to preparing research presentations for the national Waste to Worth Conference, this conversation highlights how ISAID is helping students connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.

Dr. Wolf and Melissa also share insights into developing classroom-ready curriculum for high school educators, the importance of science communication, and how these efforts are creating pathways for students to thrive in agricultural careers. This episode offers an inspiring look at the ways education is driving the future of sustainability and innovation in dairy.

In this episode:

- Why student education is critical to addressing sustainability challenges

- Real-world experiences that prepare students for their careers

- Preparing for the Waste to Worth Conference

- Creating curriculum resources for ag teachers

- Reflections and advice for students entering agriculture

Listen in to discover how the ISAID Grant is investing in future leaders to build a more sustainable dairy industry.

Dr. Kattlyn Wolf: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/kattlyn_wolf/overview

Join us as we dive into the world of environmental soil chemistry with Dr. Daniel Strawn, a professor from the University of Idaho and a dedicated researcher on the ISAID Grant. Join your host, Savanah Nunes, as we explore innovative approaches to soil health, the transformative use of dairy manure, and the cutting-edge technology known as the Clean Water Machine. Dr. Strawn sheds light on how biochar, when integrated with dairy manure, serves as a powerful soil amendment that not only enhances soil health but also reduces environmental impacts through nutrient recovery and carbon sequestration. We delve into the science behind biochar's effectiveness, its benefits, and its role in sustainable agriculture. Additionally, we discuss the Clean Water Machine—an innovative system designed to purify water by removing contaminants and impurities, making it safe and suitable for reuse or consumption. This segment highlights how such technologies are crucial in advancing environmental sustainability within the dairy industry. Listeners will gain insights into: The benefits and challenges of using dairy manure as a soil amendment. The role of biochar in improving soil health and mitigating nutrient leaching. The functionality of the Clean Water Machine and its impact on water treatment. The broader environmental and economic impacts of these sustainable practices. Tune in to discover how Dr. Strawn's research is not only advancing our understanding of soil chemistry but also how it's paving the way for new sustainable practices in the dairy industry. Whether you're a farmer, an environmentalist, or simply curious about the future of agriculture, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

Dr. Daniel Strawn: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/daniel_strawn/overview

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of sustainable dairy economics. Join your host, Savanah Nunes, as she sits down with Dr. Hernan Tejeda, ISAID Grant Economist and University of Idaho Associate Professor & Extension Specialist, to explore the financial dimensions of sustainable innovations in the dairy industry.

We discuss the pressures facing the dairy industry to become more sustainable, the economics of ISAID's biodegradable plastic made from manure, dairy carbon credits, how they work and their incentives and risks, lastly, we will discuss the steps dairymen can take to become more sustainable.

Dr. Tejeda provides invaluable insights into these topics, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable dairy. Whether you're a dairy producer, industry professional, or simply curious about sustainable practices, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice.

Dr. Hernan Tejeda: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/hernan_tejeda/overview

Let's delve into an innovative solution that could revolutionize the dairy industry—turning dairy manure into biodegradable plastic. Joining us are Dr. Erik Coats, a Civil & Environmental Engineering Professor at the University of Idaho, and his grad student Brandon Boyd.

Dr. Coats and his team are pioneering a process that converts dairy manure into a biological, biodegradable thermoplastic known as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). Throughout the episode, they explain the three-stage process that involves fermenting manure to volatile fatty acids, sustaining bacteria that store these acids as PHA, and producing commercial quantities of PHA in batch reactors. They discuss the environmental benefits of this technology, its potential to create new revenue streams for dairy farmers, and the challenges they face in scaling up production.

Dr. Erik Coats: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/erik_coats/overview

Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of dairy composting with our special guest, Mario de Haro-Martí, University of Idaho Extension Educator and ISAID Grant Member. Mario takes us on an enlightening journey through the intricate process of composting and its pivotal role in sustainable dairy practices. From understanding the nuances of compost amendments to exploring the meticulous monitoring techniques, we uncover the science behind dairy composting and its profound impact on environmental sustainability. Discover how Mario's research is revolutionizing dairy waste management, reducing air emissions, and enhancing compost quality to benefit both producers and the environment.

Links:

https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/publications/publication-detail?id=cis1179

https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/publications/publication-detail?id=cis1190

https://lpelc.org/effects-of-adding-clinoptilolite-zeolite-on-dairy-manure-composting-mix-on-the-compost-stability-and-maturity/

Welcome to "The Clever Cow," where we dive into the dynamic world of dairy innovation! In our debut episode, join us as we unravel the story of the Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID) Grant, a groundbreaking research initiative shaping the future of Idaho's dairy industry.

We'll take you on a journey through the dairy bioeconomy model, exploring how the ISAID Grant transforms dairy waste into valuable bioproducts. From biochar-amended fields to the Clean Water Machine filtering manure, we unveil the diverse projects contributing to a more sustainable and economically vibrant dairy sector.

Meet the brilliant minds behind the ISAID Grant – a multidisciplinary team spanning the state of Idaho. Discover their collaborative efforts, combining expertise from various fields to pioneer innovative solutions for dairy challenges.

Dr. Mireille Chahine: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/mireille_chahine/overview

Dairy Bioeconomy Model:

https://www.uidahoisaid.com/about