Agriculture

Crops bounce back for a strong harvest
Minnesota's corn and soybean farmers are harvesting decent yields following a year of weather uncertainties. There's was too much rain, then too little. A mid-summer drought nearly ruined the October finish.
Harvest looks healthy despite summer drought
Minnesota farmers are reaping an average harvest despite a scorching summer. MPR's Cathy Wurzer discussed this fall's harvest with Doug Holen of the University of Minnesota Extension Service.
Cathy Wurzer spoke with Jim Riddle, organic outreach coordinator at the University of Minnesota about special standards that organic farmers have.
Ethanol makers search for cheaper raw material
There could be a major change underway in how ethanol is made. Several companies want to start producing the alcohol fuel from plant fiber. Most ethanol now is made from corn. How likely is the transition to what's called cellulose ethanol?
A timeline of the ethanol industry.
This map shows where the major groundwater aquifers are in Minnesota, compared to where the ethanol plants are located.
Farmer benefits from ethanol demand
Corn farmer Rod Jorgenson is benefitting from the increase in demand for ethanol.
Ethanol vs. water: Can both win?
In Minnesota, ethanol is a favorite among alternative energy advocates. But some scientists say it is a drain on Minnesota's water resources.
Minnesota researcher helps fight an invasion of mites
Life as a beekeeper has been challenging in recent years. Beekeepers are battling the varroa mite. The creature, about the size of head of a pin, has infested bee colonies all over the world.