One of the most frightening experiences for anyone is learning that a friend or family member is considering ending their life. The impact of suicide in farming communities is unique. In rural communities with smaller populations, many people know “everyone” and there’s a familiarity among individua...

According to the Albany Times-Union, a tiny hamlet in Lewis County just north of Tug Hill State Forest had the distinction on Nov. 30 of having one of the highest snow readings in New York – officially 45 inches of the white stuff. This pre-winter “bonus” arrived as lake effect snow pushed across La...

Paul Kelly is the third generation of the British Kelly family involved in raising and promoting the brand KellyBronze Turkeys. In 2012 he partnered with Judd Culver to raise pastured organic KellyBronze turkeys and test marketed some turkeys before buying Heritage Glen Farm in 2015 in the Blue Hill...

Because beef cattle aren’t typically handled daily, it’s important to establish a clear plan prior to working a group of cattle to avoid stress and injury to humans and animals. Handling begins at the chute area before cattle arrive. Prior to gathering cattle, be sure the approach area, holding pens...

Building soil organic matter and protecting soil from erosion are two well-known benefits of cover crops. Cover crops are also a common weed control tool. According to Extension specialist Mark VanGessel of the University of Delaware, what is often overlooked, however, is the impact of herbicide car...

Part 3: Achieving reductions without breaking the bank When it comes to what happens in just about every economic sector, including agriculture, keep in mind that “As goes California, so goes the nation.” It may take a while, but the Golden State is often the harbinger of what will happen in the res...

I’m writing this column three days before Thanksgiving, so here’s background on the holiday, I believe, is relevant, in appreciating the Native Americans who helped make the celebration a reality. In researching such events, we learn about the farming practices that empowered these indigenous people...

MOUNT JOY, PA – Messick’s Equipment in Mount Joy is excited to announce the opening of their Christmas light show for its 12th year. The show is free and open to the public. We invite the community to either drive up and watch the show from their car or park and watch the show from the bleachers. En...

Farmers often reminisce about the days when they could easily fix their own car, truck or tractor. For many, it was an opportunity to share mechanical skills with the next generation. While advanced technology led to major improvements in farm equipment, it also placed equipment repair beyond the sc...