Nicollet & Sibley County Ag News
July 2024
Educator to You
Happy July!
We have a great line up of events this month, so be sure to check them out under the upcoming events tab below! There is something for everyone, including a Farm Safety Experience for all ages, Women in Ag Tour and a Soil Health Opportunity!
Best wishes!
- Samantha
Today in Agriculture
Stay up to date on H5N1 with The Moos Room Podcast
The Moos Room has put out a number of episodes regarding H5N1 in cattle. This podcast is hosted by members of the University of Minnesota Extension Beef and Dairy Teams, The Moos Room discusses relevant topics to help beef and dairy producers be more successful. The information is evidence-based and presented as an informal conversation between the hosts and guests.
Checking in on rural mental health
With the recent flooding events in the area and across Minnesota, I wanted to stress the importance of keeping your mental health in check. There are numerous resources for those struggling with this emotionally challenging period of time. Below are a few ways to help cope with recent flooding events.
Get a good night's sleep
Getting a good night’s sleep can help you feel rested and ready for the day. It is recommended to get 7 - 8 hours of good quality sleep per night. While that may not always happen, try to reach that goal as often as you can. Getting restful sleep positively impacts mental clarity and decision making throughout the day.
Move your body
It's no doubt that those involved in agriculture get their fair share of physical activity. It is important to be intentional with physical activity so it relieves stress. Activities like going for a walk outside, stretching in the morning, or following a fitness program can improve mood and help you relax.
Talk about it
It is understandable that talking about your problems may be difficult, but there are many different ways to go about it. Anonymous hotlines are always an option. Minnesota Farm and Rural Helpline is a great option for free confidential help that is available 24/7. Phone: 833-600-2670 Text: FARMSTRESS to 898211 Email: farmstress@state.mn.us Often times, it is easier to talk to someone you don’t know. There is also a Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. If you need suicide or mental health crisis support, or are worried about someone else, please call or text 988 or visit the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline chat to connect with a trained crisis specialist.
Just know that you are not alone and there are many resources available specifically to help with rural mental health and stress in general.
Upcoming Events
Farm Safety Experience
Wednesday, July 10th from 5:00pm - 8:00pm!
This educational and open house style event is for kids and adults of all ages. Come experience safety related to equipment, grain bins, animals and more at the Sibley County Fairgrounds!
Highlights include:
- Gibbon Fire Department's Rural Rescue Response Trailer
- Live animals
- Interactive ag safety activities
- Biosecurity simulation
Women in Ag Network Summer Tour
Tuesday, July 16th
Looking for ways to diversify the marketing of your farm products? Whether you produce food, fiber or fuel, thinking about where and how you plan to sell, as well as additional choices you make for selling your products, matters. On this tour, hear from entrepreneurial farmers and agribusinesses on brand development, customer relationships and marketing planning.
Agenda
- Stop 1: Compart Family Farms, 44796 400th St., Nicollet, MN 56074
- Stop 2: Tour at Stormy Creek Farm, 41114 581st Ave., New Ulm, MN 56073
Stop 3: Schell’s Brewery, 1860 Schell's Rd., New Ulm, MN 56073
You must provide your own transportation between stops.
This program was created in partnership with Great River Greening and we thank them for sponsoring the keynote speaker, Ben Penner, and the evening meal.
Soil Health Opportunity
Thursday July 25th at 5:00pm - Gibbon Community Center
FREE educational event geared toward any adult looking to improve the health of the soil in their field, garden, or plot!
Click button below for more information!
Sibley County Fair
July 31st - August 4th, 2024
801 W Chandler St, Arlington, MN 55307
Website: https://www.sibleycountyfair.com/
Nicollet County Fair
Farmfest
August 6th - 8th, 2024
For more information visit: https://www.ideaggroup.com/farmfest
To view the schedule visit: https://www.ideaggroup.com/farmfest/schedule-of-events
Connect with us!
Samantha Schoenbauer
Government Center 501 S Minnesota Ave St. Peter, MN 56082
507-934-7830
111 8th St. Gaylord, MN 55334
507-237-4100
Extension website: www.extension.umn.edu
Email: sschoenb@umn.edu