University of Wisconsin-Madison
The other day I watched a hummingbird hover outside the living room window. He flew up and down, backwards and then off like a shot out of view. Our visitor was the ruby-throated hummingbird. It is easy to recognize. The male has an emerald, green back, a white breast and, of course, a ruby-red throat. […]
Having trouble remembering where the car keys are? Grab a sprig of rosemary. It has a reputation for improving memory. Like most herbs, this Mediterranean native has a rich history in folklore. In the Middle Ages rosemary was used to protect against evil spirits. If placed beneath your pillow, it would ward off bad dreams. […]
With cattle prices at record highs, margins remain tight, and good management is critical to successful cattle finishing. Join UW-Madison Extension Regional Educators and Specialists for a workshop addressing timely topics, including a chute-side discussion, feed and silage management, feedlot facilities, and handling. The twilight field day will be hosted by the Jensen Family, E3677 […]
Each spring and summer, the United States typically experiences a multistate outbreak of salmonellosis associated with exposure to backyard poultry (BYP). Since March 1, 2026, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has linked 17 salmonellosis cases among Wisconsin residents to this year’s backyard poultry multistate outbreak. Backyard poultry, like chickens and ducks, can […]
As of early April of 2026, commercial nitrogen (N) fertilizer prices have increased by approximately 30% since the fall of 2025. Fortunately, there are management choices farmers can make to provide efficient use of N inputs and minimize negative financial impacts of this sudden price increase. 1. Identify a cost-effective N rate University of Wisconsin […]
Thank You, 4‑H Volunteers! As Volunteer Appreciation Week comes to an end, Jordan and the entire Chippewa County 4‑H staff want to pause and say a heartfelt thank you to the incredible volunteers who help make our 4‑H program shine brighter every day. 4‑H would not be possible without the time, talent, and care of […]
This summer, we’re partnering with our friends at the Chippewa Falls Public Library to bring fun, hands-on programming to parks throughout Chippewa Falls! Youth in 4K through 13th grade are welcome to attend. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All programs are offered in collaboration with the Chippewa Falls Public Library. Pop-Up […]
🌾 Hidden Challenges on the Farm 🌾Join us for two free, 90-minute interactive workshops focused on key issues farmers face — Healthcare While Farming and Child Care While Farming. 📅 Friday, November 14, 2025🕤 Healthcare: 9:30 – 11:00 AM🕛 Childcare: 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM 📍 Class locations available in: Learn how to budget healthcare […]
· The name pumpkin comes from the Greek word ‘pepon’, meaning ‘large melon’. · Scientifically speaking, pumpkins are fruits (they contain seeds) but when it comes to cooking, they are often referred to as vegetables. · Giant pumpkins can be grown for competitions, with some weighing over 1000 pounds! · Pumpkin plants feature both male […]
Is your farm’s future on your mind? The “Cultivating Your Farm’s Future” virtual workshop series is designed to help farm families like yours start their succession plans. Whether you’re the owner wondering how to transfer to the next generation, or the next generation with questions about your future role, multiple farm/family members are encouraged to […]
Whenever I find myself at a farmers’ market, I am always struck by the boisterous hum of voices as vendors and shoppers alike are busy having conversations and sharing laughs. This is a common scene at farmers’ markets in our area. Farmers’ markets give customers a chance to meet the people who grow the food […]
A wonderful thing about the community garden I garden in is that together with vegetables, garden plots are often peppered with an assortment of flowers. As I wandered through the gardens the other day, I couldn’t help but notice how alive it was with the movement and sounds of insects. One insect in particular caught […]
