Shared Soil

Kendall and Rebecca talk with Jeremy Fowler, Public Affairs Specialist at the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in New Hampshire about how farmers and forest landowners can utilize voluntary conservation planning and assistance from NRCS. They discuss the process of applying, the different programs NRCS offers as a non-regulatory agency, and the technical and financial benefits they of...

Kendall and Rebecca talk with UNH Plant Genetics Researcher Chris Hernandez about what a cucurbit is; the production, breeding, and classification of pumpkins and squash, and some of the ongoing challenges for today’s growers. Show notes:   Chris Hernandez: chris.hernandez@unh.edu Cucurbit: any vining crop belonging to the plant family Cucurbitaceae, which includes pumpkins, squash, melons, and cu...

Kendall and Rebecca visit the Hopkinton Fair to highlight how 4-H helps young people build confidence, practical skills, and community. Featuring interviews with leaders and exhibitors, the episode explores hands-on learning, livestock projects, and the lasting impact 4-H has on youth and their families. Show notes:   New Hampshire 4-H: https://extension.unh.edu/new-hampshire-4-h/about/join-new-ha...

UNH Extension's Women in Ag programming and the Beginner Farmer Program collaborate with Annie's Project to empower women farmers. Kelly McAdam and Doris Mold share insights with Kendall and Rebecca on Annie's Project, which focuses on risk management and financial literacy for women in agriculture. Show notes:   Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations: https://www.fao.org/home/en...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss the significance of agricultural fairs in New Hampshire with 4-H staff Hannah Majewski and Janell George, highlighting the educational and community aspects of fairs where 4-H members showcase their projects and learn valuable skills. Show notes:   Janell George, Rockingham County 4-H Program Assistant and NH State Fairs Liaison - Janell.george@unh.edu Hannah Majewski,...

Kendall and Rebecca talk with Christa Howe of Christa's Christmas Tree Farm in Colebrook, NH about the year-round work involved in Christmas tree farming. Christa notes her journey into the business, the long growth cycle of trees, and the importance of both wholesale and retail sales. They discuss seasonal tasks like planting, mowing, shearing, and harvesting, as well as the need for detailed rec...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss haying in New England, emphasizing the importance of timing and quality. Carl Majewski, a forages and field crop specialist, explains the process of making hay, from mowing to baling, and highlights the significance of cutting grass at the right stage for optimal nutritional value. They discuss the benefits of growing grass in New England, and the importance of soil and...

Kendall Kunelius and Rebecca Dube discuss the dangers of ticks with Extension Diagnostic Service Program Manager Shyloh Favreau. Shyloh notes that ticks are obligate blood feeders that can transmit diseases like Lyme disease and highlights the increasing tick population in New Hampshire, particularly the black-legged tick, and then advises on personal protection measures such as clothing choices a...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss succession planning in agriculture with Seth Wilner, an Extension specialist with 26 years of experience. Seth defines succession planning as the strategic transfer of farm management and ownership to the next generation, emphasizing its importance in minimizing taxes, reducing family conflict, and ensuring business sustainability. He highlights the need for farmers to...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss the experiences of young farmers in New Hampshire with Lindsay Matras, who runs a small dairy and sugaring business, and Gracie Phillips, who manages an organic orchard and educational center. Both farmers share their challenges and successes, highlighting the importance of family influence, the need for diversification, and the impact of technology and community suppor...

In the first episode of Season Three of the Shared Soil podcast, Kendall and Rebecca discuss the North Country Farm Trail, an initiative by Kate Savage to promote agritourism and local agriculture in the North Country of New Hampshire. The Farm Trail aims to connect local consumers with a wide range of agricultural products and services, including fresh produce, dairy, meats, and local services li...

We wanted to create a bonus episode for this season, kind of like a holiday card, thanking all of the farmers and people who work in agriculture in New Hampshire and beyond. So we’ve gathered a bunch of people to share what they are thankful to New Hampshire agriculture for. Show notes:   Women in Ag Newsletter signup - https://unhoutreach.tfaforms.net/217751?CID=701G0000001AiKCIA0   Kendall Kunel...

Depreciation is the reduction in the value of business equipment over time, which impacts both taxes and financial statements. Kendall Kunelius and Rebecca Dube review depreciation with Sam Stoddard from Farm Credit East. They discuss special depreciation methods, building leases, and the importance of accurate record-keeping and financial management for farmers. ----------------------------------...

Summary: Kendall and Rebecca discuss the New Hampshire tree fruit industry with UNH Extension fruit and vegetable field specialist Jeremy Delisle. They explore the challenges farmers face, including extreme weather events and market shifts. They also discuss the resilience of New Hampshire farmers, the use of integrated pest management, and the impact of community and grower associations. Show not...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss disaster preparedness in agriculture with Olivia Saunders. The conversation underscores the importance of preparedness and community resilience in agriculture. Show notes:   Integrated Pest Management (IPM): https://extension.unh.edu/agriculture-gardens/pest-disease-growing-tools/integrated-pest-management-ipm Wholistic Management Institute Training - https://www.holist...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss agritourism with Jada Lindblom and Gail McWilliam Jellie from UNH Extension. They take a look at its community and economic impact, as well as its many safety considerations. They stress the importance of proper planning, staff training, and community relations.   Show notes:   Jada Lindblom – jada.lindblom@unh.edu Gail McWilliam Jellie – gail.mcwilliam.jellie@unh.edu F...

Insights into Lending Kendall and Rebecca speak with Charley Cummings, CEO of Walden Mutual Bank. They discuss the concept of "voting with your dollars" and its impact on sustainable finance and agriculture. He shares insights on lending practices, stressing the importance of long-term relationships and understanding the unique challenges of multi-generational farms. Cummings emphasized the need f...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss the production and handling of eggs with UNH Extension livestock Field Specialist Katrina Klobucher. They discuss the need for proper sanitation throughout the process, from ventilation to the baskets eggs are gathered in. They also discuss factors affecting shell color and size, and choosing a breed that best matches your goals.  How do you like your eggs? Show notes:...

Using Forest Products in Agriculture Summary: Kendall and Rebecca discuss the benefits of forest management plans for farmers with Andrew Fast, an Extension forest industry specialist. They explore how forested land can be integrated into farming operations, emphasizing the importance of understanding land assets and setting goals. Andy explains the process of creating a forest management plan, wh...

The Shared Soil team talk wildlife management in agriculture  and hear from Matt Tarr, UNH Cooperative Extension's wildlife habitat specialist, and Cole LeTourneau, a New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officer. They discuss New Hampshire's unique bear damage compensation program and the importance of proactive measures like fencing and habitat management to mitigate wildlife damage. Integrat...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss Integrated Pest Management (IPM) with UNH Extension field specialist Liza DeGenring. Liza explains that IPM is a holistic approach to managing pests, including insects, diseases, and weeds, by combining various strategies to minimize damage. She emphasizes the importance of education, sanitation, cultural practices, and physical/mechanical controls before resorting to c...

Kendall Kunelius and Rebecca Dube discuss the process of buying a new teaching tractor for UNH Extension and the College of Life Sciences and Agriculture. Kendall emphasized the importance of knowing what features you want, such as a cab and instructor seat for safety, adjustable features for ergonomics, and a 75-horsepower tractor for ease of maintenance and travel. The tractor will be used for v...

In the first episode of Season Two, Kendall Kunelius and Rebecca Dube discuss food preservation with Sean O'Brien, a home horticulture program manager at UNH Extension. They explore various methods of food preservation, including canning, freezing, and drying, and emphasize the importance of planning for food preservation needs. Sean explains the math behind calculating how much to grow for preser...

Kendall and Rebecca discuss the complexities of agricultural product labels, focusing on terms like "organic," "all natural," and "no hormones added."  They also address the nuances of "local" and "native" labels, emphasizing consumer education and the significance of informed purchasing decisions. Resources for further learning are provided, including the Legal Guide for New Hampshire Agricultura...

A Discussion with Kendall, Rebecca and Jennifer Bosco-Webb of Extension Marketing Communications Kendall Kunelius and Rebecca Dube discuss the importance of marketing for farmers, emphasizing that it should be a key part of their business plan. They compare creating a marketing plan to planning a crop, highlighting the need for strategy, target audience identification, and regular updates. Jennife...