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Agriculture

Healthier eggs a new niche for farmers

When the American Heart Association told consumers eggs were high in cholesterol, consumption plummeted. But now, there's a new egg on the market. An egg enhanced with Omega Three fatty acid can actually help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower cholesterol. Minnesota has nearly 11 million hens. It's the 8th highest egg-producing state in the country. Farmers who got out of the egg business now may see a reason to get back in.

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A new approach to farming

Earthwise is a farmer-owned company that is taking a new approach to agriculture.

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Life and debt on a dairy farm

Over the past 30 years, the number of dairy farms in Minnesota has dropped by 84 percent. Last year, the state's dairy production hit its lowest level in 50 years. But despite the poor economic outlook, some farm families are making a living -- while living the life they want.

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A new type of corn

They've been mocked as "franken-food." But far from stumbling, genetically-modified crops dominate the corn and soybean market.

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Farmers oppose genetically-modified wheat

Farmers' love affair with genetically-modified crops is growing. The latest debate is over a new genetically-modified wheat variety, which is being developed by Monsanto. Monsanto is one of the largest distributors of high-tech crops. But farmers are urging Monsanto to keep Roundup Ready wheat in the laboratory.

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Farmers prepare for spring planting

Farmers across the state are eager for the weather to settle so they can plant their crops. Machinery is rolled out of the shed and prepped for work. It's time to act on plans developed over the winter. Spring is a time for optimism on the farm. This year is no exception.

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The debate over farm expansion gets personal

Minnesota's dairy industry is at a crossroads. Some farmers say the future is in getting bigger -- milking more cows. Not everyone agrees. One group, the Land Stewardship Project, has spearheaded the opposing viewpoint.

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European farmers are coming to America

State agriculture officials say Minnesota could benefit from a new wave of European immigrants, but isn't. Many European dairy farmers are selling their farms and moving to the United States. However, current law keeps those farmers from buying land in Minnesota. Agriculture officials want to change that. They say European farmers have the desire to buy failing Minnesota dairy farms. But some say the state shouldn't lay out the welcome mat for foreigners while Minnesota dairy farmers are struggling.

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Dairy farmers facing big changes

Minnesota's dairy industry is going through historic change -- for the worse. In the last 20 years, 72 percent of the state's dairy farmers have left the business. Some say Minnesota needs larger scale farms, but many disagree.

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One man's solution: Loosen regulations of dairy farms

Charles Hann is managing principal of Dairy Finance Associates in Minneapolis. Here are his thoughts on how to strengthen Minnesota's dairy industry.

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