Potato growers across North America are increasingly turning to mustard as a rotational crop, but nowhere is the opportunity more compelling than in Idaho. As the second-largest mustard-producing state in the U.S. and the nation’s leading potato producer, Idaho holds a unique position where mustard and potatoes can work jointly to deliver sustainable market advantages for both crops.

Some social media influencers have vocalized the idea that our current agricultural system needs an overhaul. I agree that we need to be using the best science available to improve crop production and minimize adverse effects on the environment. But pesticide use is condemned too quickly without understanding the benefit their use brings in protecting the crop.

Before planting a cover crop, Hines urges producers to ask one key question: What’s your objective? A clear goal can turn a good idea into real on‑farm benefits.

To be economically viable, alfalfa varieties need to have some level of genetic resistance to major diseases and pests. Without resistance, the cost of production increases substantially, as the producer must rely on chemical controls to maintain stands or protect forage yield and quality.

Idaho conservation districts are locally led and meet the unique needs of a specific area, whether those needs are education, watercraft inspection, invasive species management, irrigation improvement, healthier soils, fuel reduction, tree planting or fish habitat improvement.

In early spring, cooler temperatures and low to moderate humidity often allow cows to remain comfortable and productive with minimal environmental stress. As spring turns into summer, however, conditions change.

It was shipping day, or at least the first of a few. We were only shipping one load, so I didn’t expect much drama, but shipping day is always accompanied by some angst. We’re not a huge outfit, and our final day of harvest is when we ship the previous year’s calf crop to its final destination to a packing plant in Texas or California. It may not be as romantic or Instagram-worthy as branding day or turnout day, but it is every bit as important and impactful.

With the third and fourth generations at the helm today, Wittman Farms is as committed to the vision of stewardship and intentional business management as ever.

Harvest timing in small grains isn’t just a detail – it’s the difference between profit and loss. New University of Idaho research shows how barley and oats stack up when cut at boot, heading/milk or soft-dough stage.