Latest News From Jennifer Shike

The Pros and Cons of Visa Worker Programs
The Pros and Cons of Visa Worker Programs

H-2A. J1. TN. Don’t be intimidated by this short list of visa worker programs, Dianne Bettin says. They connect U.S. farms with access to “amazing people with great work ethic.” Why should you consider them?

APHIS Bolsters Animal Health Surveillance for Unexplained Mortality Investigations
APHIS Bolsters Animal Health Surveillance for Unexplained Mortality Investigations

A new collaborative effort is helping fund rapid investigations of unexplained morbidity or mortality events in animals – unexpected deaths or illnesses that could signal emerging animal disease threats.

U.S. Harvest Analysis Reveals Variable Mycotoxin Risk, Alltech Reports 
U.S. Harvest Analysis Reveals Variable Mycotoxin Risk, Alltech Reports 

Droughts, high rainfall and other weather events affecting the corn harvest have made it even more critical than ever to analyze mycotoxin risks across the nation. Here's the latest report from Alltech's analysis.

Winter Storm Survival: A Nightmare for Livestock Producers in Western Illinois
Winter Storm Survival: A Nightmare for Livestock Producers in Western Illinois

Despite nearly 24 inches of snow, below-zero temperatures and raging winds that some people are affectionately calling “Death Storm #2,” Illinois livestock producers are finding ways to overcome the horrific conditions.

USDA Awards Funds to Help Expand Export Markets for U.S. Food and Ag Products
USDA Awards Funds to Help Expand Export Markets for U.S. Food and Ag Products

USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service announces more than $203 million to nearly 70 agricultural organizations to help expand export markets via the Market Access Program and Foreign Market Development program. 

The Best Livestock-Themed Christmas Trees Full of Memories and Meaning
The Best Livestock-Themed Christmas Trees Full of Memories and Meaning

One of the things I love most about Christmas trees is the power they evoke to simply remember. Here are some special livestock-themed Christmas trees filled with memories to last a lifetime. 

Congress Can't Ignore the Mental Health Crisis Anymore, Costa Says
Congress Can't Ignore the Mental Health Crisis Anymore, Costa Says

More than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness. U.S. Representative Jim Costa (D-CA) says Congress cannot ignore the mental health crisis in America anymore. 

Senate and House Leaders Call for Farm Bill Extension
Senate and House Leaders Call for Farm Bill Extension

Rep. Thompson, chairman of the House Ag Committee, continues to express optimism about passing a new farm bill in December in the House of Representatives. But he says an extension of the current farm bill is needed.

Animal Rights Activist Found Guilty of Felony and Two Misdemeanors
Animal Rights Activist Found Guilty of Felony and Two Misdemeanors

Animal activist Wayne Hsiung was found guilty of one felony and two misdemeanor charges after nearly a week of deliberations before a Sonoma County jury for his role in "open rescues" on two farms.

Farm Stress Affects Kids, Too: Here’s What You Need to Know
Farm Stress Affects Kids, Too: Here’s What You Need to Know

It's no wonder farmers experience higher levels of anxiety and depression because of the many factors they deal with that are out of their control. But how does that affect their family? A new study sheds light.

Proposed Legislation Seeks to Analyze Livestock Industry Consolidation
Proposed Legislation Seeks to Analyze Livestock Industry Consolidation

The Livestock Consolidation Research Act would direct a study on the impact of livestock industry consolidation, and a report about how this has affected new market entrants, access to resources and purchasing power.

New Bill Excuses Illinois Youth from School Absence to Attend 4-H and FFA Events
New Bill Excuses Illinois Youth from School Absence to Attend 4-H and FFA Events

Just in time for school to start, in the midst of the Illinois State Fair, students across the state will no longer be penalized for participating in a 4-H or FFA event.

Animal Ag Organizations Team Up to Combat Misinformation and Share Science
Animal Ag Organizations Team Up to Combat Misinformation and Share Science

Everyone knows communication is key to animal agriculture's future success. That's why the Animal Agriculture Alliance and National Institute for Animal Agriculture (NIAA) are teaming up.

Animal Rights Extremist Connections and Tactics Updated in New Reports
Animal Rights Extremist Connections and Tactics Updated in New Reports

Do you know what the Top 5 targeted states are for animal rights activists? The answer may surprise you.

Understand Yourself Better and Be Better on the Job
Understand Yourself Better and Be Better on the Job

Are you interested in being more effective in business and personal interactions? Are you tired of butting heads with that annoying person on your team? JD Fiechtner, DVM, shares tips to “Be Better Than Before.”

Why Employees Are in the Driver's Seat
Why Employees Are in the Driver's Seat

It's hard to stay competitive in today's job market. Here are four reasons why employees are in the driver's seat in 2023.

USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Validity of Animal-Raising Claims
USDA Launches Effort to Strengthen Validity of Animal-Raising Claims

USDA announced on June 14 that it is implementing a multi-step effort aimed at strengthening the substantiation of animal-raising claims.

Is Family the Most Important Part of Your Life? Prove It
Is Family the Most Important Part of Your Life? Prove It

Farming is getting far more complex, says Ted Matthews, director of Rural Minnesota Mental Health Support. Because of that, it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself.

Jennifer Shike
Animal Activists Are Waging War in Your Backyard

As I approached the site of my first animal activist rally, I kept my distance. I watched two people beside a small megaphone and a bag, checking their phones constantly. I leaned in anticipating what would happen next.

USDA Awards $2.29 Million in Farm Bill Funding to Protect Animal Health
USDA Awards $2.29 Million in Farm Bill Funding to Protect Animal Health

USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service is awarding $2.29 million through the National Animal Health Laboratory Network Farm Bill program to advance APHIS’ animal health preparedness.

Crashing Dirt Bikes to Chasing Cows: Scott Irwin Releases New Book on Futures Market
Crashing Dirt Bikes to Chasing Cows: Scott Irwin Releases New Book on Futures Market

Futures markets are a mystery, says Scott Irwin, author of the new book, Back to the Futures, is now available for pre-order and is scheduled to be released on April 19 on Amazon.

Saving Landfill Space: Researchers Develop Washable Antimicrobial Wipes
Saving Landfill Space: Researchers Develop Washable Antimicrobial Wipes

USDA researchers have engineered sustainable machine-washable antimicrobial wipes that can be used at least 30 times for cleaning hard and nonporous surfaces.

Animal Disinfectants Market Projected to Reach $4.6 Billion in 2027
Animal Disinfectants Market Projected to Reach $4.6 Billion in 2027

The global animal disinfectants market is expected to reach $4.6 billion by 2027, according to a Markets and Markets report, up from $3.2 billion in 2022.

Pork is the Winner for Easter Dinner
Pork is the Winner for Easter Dinner

Pork will be at the center of the plate for many, including our family, this Easter Sunday. Here's a look at why pork's leading the way and some of our favorite Easter recipes.

Here are 5 Life-Saving Tips When Deadly Storms Strike
Here are 5 Life-Saving Tips When Deadly Storms Strike

The vast devastation caused by deadly tornadoes that swept through multiple states last weekend is putting everyone on edge as another round of severe weather, including possible tornadoes, threatens many this week.

Over-the-Counter Antibiotics: What You Need to Know Before June 11
Over-the-Counter Antibiotics: What You Need to Know Before June 11

On June 11, FDA’s Guidance for Industry #263 brings 91 over-the-counter antimicrobial products from OTC to prescription oversight. Three experts weigh in on why you need to prepare for this change now.

What’s Holding You Back from Utilizing the TN Visa Program to Grow Your Team?
What’s Holding You Back from Utilizing the TN Visa Program to Grow Your Team?

When it comes to hiring potential candidates from Mexico to come work on your farm, there are many things to consider before you make the move. Victor Ochoa of Swineworks answers big questions on producers’ minds.

U.S. Exports to Dominican Republic Reach Record-High; Pork Leads Way
U.S. Exports to Dominican Republic Reach Record-High; Pork Leads Way

For the third straight year, agricultural exports from the U.S. to the Dominican Republic have reached an all-time record with pork leading the way in 2022. 

10 Ways FFA Made Us Better
10 Ways FFA Made Us Better

FFA is a nearly limitless opportunity for young people to figure out who they are and what they want to do in life. Here are 10 lessons Farm Journal employees learned through FFA that they use every day. 

Winter Storms are Brewing: Is Your Barn Ready?
Winter Storms are Brewing: Is Your Barn Ready?

A powerful holiday-week storm will unfold across the central U.S. from Thursday into Friday and unleash heavy snow and strong winds. Is your farm ready for the storm?

Alltech ONE Conference Will Mobilize Around the Globe in 2023
Alltech ONE Conference Will Mobilize Around the Globe in 2023

After 38 years of hosting the Alltech ONE Conference in Lexington, Ky., the event is transforming into a series of international events around the globe in 2023. 

Jennifer Shike
When the Reality of the Hunger Problem Hits Close to Home

I'll never forget joining my daughter for a school walkathon. As we started walking, a little boy gravitated to us and made an offhanded comment about sleeping in his car. Could this really be happening in our community?

How Will Food Inflation Redefine Holiday Gift Giving?
How Will Food Inflation Redefine Holiday Gift Giving?

Rising meal prices will likely redefine holiday shopping this year. New research from The Center for Food Integrity (CFI) digs into inflation's impact on consumer purchases.

Don't Brush Off Conflict on the Farm
Don't Brush Off Conflict on the Farm

Conflict. Everyone wants to avoid it, but experts say that's never a good move. 

Ohio's Jacob Wuebker Named 2022 Star in Agricultural Placement
Ohio's Jacob Wuebker Named 2022 Star in Agricultural Placement

While some farmers may specialize in one area, Ohio's Jacob Wuebker proves it's possible to manage a diversified grain and livestock farm and do well at it all. He was named the 2022 Star in Agricultural Placement.

6 Dos and Don’ts to Make the Most of National FFA Convention
6 Dos and Don’ts to Make the Most of National FFA Convention

There’s no question National FFA Convention be a bit overwhelming at first. The sheer magnitude of the event is a lot to take in. Here are six expert tips to make the most of your week in Indianapolis.

Agro-Terrorism and the Food Supply Chain: This is a Different World, Rose Says
Agro-Terrorism and the Food Supply Chain: This is a Different World, Rose Says

If you want to disrupt a government, disrupt the food supply. "Ag is critical infrastructure," says Andrew Rose, strategic advisor. “Three weeks without food and agriculture, and it’s over.”

farmer
Lack of Understanding Leads to Loneliness in Farmers

A lack of understanding and appreciation for what farmers do is resulting in increased feelings of loneliness among farmers, a new study suggests. Loneliness is often linked to depression and anxiety.

Plant-Based Food Isn't Healthier: New Book Sets Out to Debunk Myths
Plant-Based Food Isn't Healthier: New Book Sets Out to Debunk Myths

A book about why eating a plants-only diet won't improve your health or save the planet is turning heads. A British-based investigative journalist digs into the concept that plant-based food is better for your health.

Shoo Fly: Can Coconuts Keep Flies Away?
Shoo Fly: Can Coconuts Keep Flies Away?

Stable flies and other blood-feeding pests take a $2.2 billion bite out of agriculture. A team of researchers is finding a new way to fight back...with a coconut.

Manure Matters: Team Compares Book Values to Sample Data
Manure Matters: Team Compares Book Values to Sample Data

All manure is not the same. That's why a group of researchers is taking another look at manure nutrient "book values."

Protect Your Show Livestock from Heat Stress at the County Fair
Protect Your Show Livestock from Heat Stress at the County Fair

Nothing says county fair week like a hot forecast. Don’t forget to prepare for the heat your animals will face at the fair. 

Most People Think They Eat Healthier Than They Do
Most People Think They Eat Healthier Than They Do

You are what you "think" you eat. A new study says that may not be a good thing for most Americans.

Infant Formula Shortage Hits Close to Home for Indiana Couple
Infant Formula Shortage Hits Close to Home for Indiana Couple

The infant formula shortage is scary and hitting close to home for many parents throughout the country. One woman has shipped out $978 worth of infant formula to friends in seven states where shortages are rampant. 

Kids on the Farm: Don’t Take Your Eyes Off Safety
Kids on the Farm: Don’t Take Your Eyes Off Safety

Although the industry has come a long way when it comes to farm safety, about every three days, a child dies in an ag-related incident, and each day, 33 children are injured. Farm safety expert Barbara Lee weighs in.

Why Mental Health Matters on the Farm
Why Mental Health Matters on the Farm

A little bit better is a little bit better, said Ted Matthews, director of Minnesota Rural Mental Health. Matthews dispels myths about mental health, counseling and anxiety on the farm.

Looking for Easter Recipe Inspiration? Farm Journal Editors Share Family Favorites
Looking for Easter Recipe Inspiration? Farm Journal Editors Share Family Favorites

Last night it hit me I should probably figure out my Easter menu beyond our family favorite – ham. I checked in with my colleagues to find out their favorite holiday recipes. Here are a few you may want to consider.

Alleviate Stress on the Farm with These 5 Steps
Alleviate Stress on the Farm with These 5 Steps

Life on the farm is unpredictable at best – especially when many factors impacting your day are out of your control. Here's why it is important to be proactive when it comes to farm management. 

Probiotics May Pose Risks to Animal and Human Health
Probiotics May Pose Risks to Animal and Human Health

Probiotics may not be as beneficial for animal and human health as people think, according to recently published research at Kansas State University. Here's why.

Winter Storms Are On the Way: Are Your Barns Safe?
Winter Storms Are On the Way: Are Your Barns Safe?

Winter Storm Landon is on its way, expected to spread a big mess of snow, sleet and freezing rain from the Rockies to the Plains, Midwest and parts of the Northeast. Don't forget to pay attention to your barn roofs.