Tri-State Neighbor

Estate planning is complicated, but keep it simple

"We had a simple will to begin with. As our business grew, our attorney suggested a living trust to own our assets."

Time away from ranch takes determination

hear it time after time: “I can’t get away” or “I don’t have the time” or "I don’t have anyone I can trust to watch over things.”

To cull or not to cull?

Because cull cows have the potential to generate so much income, it’s important to not just think of them not as “something extra.”

Fuel from the farm: Dairy farms a growing source of renewable fuel

The process of turning manure into fuel is nothing new, but government incentives for curbing greenhouse gases have caused a boom in such projects, especially at dairy farms.

Chilling memories of winter chores

The daily challenge of starting the loader tractor on a bitter cold morning involved a small corn cob fire placed directly under the pan, complete with a silent prayer that the fire didn’t spread.

This usually happens to someone else

My husband’s niece delivered devastating news to the family just after Thanksgiving. It’s the kind of news that you always think happens to “somebody else.” But not this time.

Farm bookkeeping app aims to put efficiency, accuracy at your fingertips

“I didn’t even know we were missing the check, and that was a red flag."

New forage association to host kick-off meeting

South Dakota and surrounding Northern Plains states are home to a new group, the Northern Plains Forage Association.

Northeast Nebraska producer named one of nation’s top young farmers

“It’s about having a mindset that embraces change. Not every problem will be solved with technology, but a lot of them will."

Battling 'Work Brain' with fun

I was raised with a strong midwestern ethic: Work first, play later.

Farm memories frozen in time

"As soon as the image popped into my mind, I could hear the snorting of thirsty cows, see the ice chips flying up from the hole with each ax stroke and feel the spray of frigid water on my face."

I will never regret my life in the Stockyards or the cattle business. However, could I go back, I would decline the invitation to speak on the evenings that one of those special family moments came along.

New things in store for 2023 Sioux Empire Livestock Show

Repeat visitors to the Sioux Empire Livestock Show might notice a few changes this year.

A good ranch dog is one of the best things in life

Well, the Boss Man and our new pup Pippy have become best buds, and the little one has settled in really well to ranch life. She’s already getting accustomed to regular baths which I feel is a ranch dog must.

‘So God Made a Farmer’ kind of week at Five Pine Cattle Co.

It was that kind of a challenging week at Five Pine Cattle Co., between snowstorms and the start of calving season.

Farmers brace for rising interest rates after years of steady lows

"Just the increase in interest is $25 to $30 per acre of added cost. Then on top of that, we’ve had at least a 25% increase in equipment costs, maintenance, fuel, those things. So we’re looking at pushing $100 an acre of added cost.”

South Dakota's 54th Pork Congress Jan. 11-12

Make time and come connect with others in the industry at the 54th Annual South Dakota Pork Congress! It will be held Jan. 11 and 12 at the Ramkota Hotel and Exhibit Hall in Sioux Falls.

A new addition for the new year

Welcome to 2023, I think. All the days here seem to be running together as one big wintery bliss.

They lost a 4-year-old son. Now this Iowa farm family is building a regional grief-therapy center.

The family is working to turn the Manning farm boy’s memory into an inspiration for public-mindedness.

promotion

Tri-State Neighbor Crop Watchers

Get cracking: South Dakota-made corn cracker makes quick work of cattle feed

A Huron, South Dakota-manufacturer known for their combine headers has branched out to serve livestock producers.

Like a boss: Iowa CNC table manufacturer focuses on simplicity, cost

When a part breaks on a tractor, sometimes it can take weeks for it to come into the shop.

SDSU Extension to discuss latest research at farm show

Catch presentations on these farm topics at the Dakota Farm Show Jan. 4 and 5.

Don’t complain about the rain – or snow

As the year ends, I should probably make a New Years’ resolution not to complain when nature brings moisture to the region, no matter how it is delivered.