Syrian Agriculture Needs Help Now

Syrian Agriculture Needs Help Now

Agriculture conflict Syria

We have all heard about the horrifying events taking place in Syria. Agriculture is, also, hurting in Syria. The linked article takes a look at a recent report put out on the struggles of agriculture in Syria and the need for action to improve it. We encourage you to read the linked article and then utilize the discussion points to spark conversations around the world! If you are looking for

Food and Agriculture: Looking to the Future

Food and Agriculture: Looking to the Future

Agriculture food

As we all know our world population is growing and things are changing in agriculture and food production. The short video below from the FAO takes a look at trends in agriculture and food and challenges that are coming our way. I encourage you to watch the video and utilize the discussion points to start conversations with others. To catch all the trends and challenges you may want to pause the

Global Agriculture Watch

Global Agriculture Watch

Agriculture Global markets

There is a lot happening in agriculture markets around the world. A link below provides a look around the globe concerning agriculture supply and demand and potential impacts on markets. While it focuses on impacts to the United States markets you can apply the information to all markets around the world. We encourage you to read the article linked below and utilize the discussion points provided

Natural Disasters Impacting Agriculture

Natural Disasters Impacting Agriculture

Agriculture Climate Change natural disasters

This week we feature a short video (2 minutes and 40 seconds) from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations that explores the impact of natural disasters on agriculture around the world. This video presents many topics that encourage thought and analysis. We encourage you to watch this short video and then share dialogue around the globe utilizing the discussion points provided

Agriculture Key to Peace

Agriculture Key to Peace

Agriculture Central Africa Republic Peace

The President of Central African Republic (CAR) has made improving agriculture production and practices across CAR a priority. The linked article takes a deeper look at the importance of focusing on and improving agriculture. Look over the article linked below and strike up conversation in your communities and classrooms utilizing the discussion points provided.

Ag is Key to Achieving Lasting

Illinois Budget Zeroed out for Agriculture Education

Illinois Budget Zeroed out for Agriculture Education

Agriculture

I guess, I finally caught up to the news today that Bruce Rauner's Budget for Agricultural education.  Stu Ellis of Decatur Herald and Review wrote a fine article on the topic.  I can't say where Mr. Rauner's staff have their heads because I try to keep this a G rated blog.  How can they miss out on supporting the biggest industry in Illinois.  If this was coal or petroleum money, the would be looking around to  help.   Even his State Board of Education, recommended money for Agricultural Education.  I hope our legislators can see that they all need to get together on this budget thing and do whatever it takes to pass a veto proof budget.

Hillsboro Soil Conservationist Passes

Hillsboro Soil Conservationist Passes

Agrarian Lifestyle Agriculture

I am sad to report the passing of Don Long, former District Conservationist for USDA Soil Conservation Service in Hillsboro.  I first met Don when I was a young soil scientist in Edwardsville.  We worked in the same administrative area.  When I moved to Hillsboro, Don had been retired about 5 years.  He would stop by the office from time to time to share his wisdom.  He had solid common sense.  In more recent years, I have joined Don and a group of other retired people for coffee.  Don often had a story to share with the group.  I will always remember a road trip in the summer of 2014 to his farm near Crossville.  Don showed me all around the farm.  I collected soil samples to have tested using our then new Soil Heath Tool.  His land had been in continuous No-till for 30 years by that time, and it showed.  Don's obituary is worth a look.