Mike talks to military veteran-turned-farmer Mark Baker of Bakers Green Acres in Marion, Michigan. Baker tells a disturbing tale of how the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has been using intimidation, misinformation the threat of jail time to virtually force small heritage breed hog farmers out of business. Karen Hudson from Illinois Citizens for Clean Air and Water joins the conversation.

George Janowiak from the Illinois Giant Pumpkin Growers Association reports on the annual Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off at Benston's Pumpkin Farm in Homer Glen. Art Scheele from American Organic in Warren, Illinois talks about the value of fall and spring-planted cover crops. Mike welcomes a panel--Karen Hudson from Illinois Citizens for Clean Air and Water, Michele Merkel from the Environmental Integrity Project and Danielle Diamond from the Socially Responsible Agricultural Project--that explains the dangers posed by CAFOs in Illinois and in the nation. They are joined by rural resident Dave Leifheit, who found his rural property a few thousand feet away from a CAFO in Ogle County, and who successfully sought tax relief for that circumstance.

Sarah Batka, Cook County Master Gardener Coordinator, sits in with Mike. They welcome Dan Kosta from Vern Goers Greenhouse in Hinsdale, who promotes the Annual Prairie State Bonsai Society Show at the Morton Arboretum. Special guest is Annie Haven from Authentic Haven Brand, who talks about the history of her California company and explains the benefits of using Moo Poo Tea.

Martha Boyd from Angelic Organics Learning Center previews the 2012 Windy City Coop Tour, presented by Chicago Chicken Enthusiasts. Garden expert, author and veteran of radio and television Melinda Myers joins Mike to talk about fall lawn care.