Blake Jackson
- Writer, Freelance
- Assistant General Counsel (Director), Regulatory and Merchandising, Famliy Dollar
Chesapeake
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Articles by Blake Jackson
Wisconsin Calving Workshop Will Focus on Calf Health and Care
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson UW-Madison Extension will offer calving workshops on December 9 and 10, 2026, to help livestock producers strengthen their knowledge of calf care, nutrition, and successful calving management. The sessions will provide practical information and guidance for farmers preparing for the calving season.
New Apple Storage Method Reduces Internal Browning by 97%
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Cornell University researchers have identified an improved storage technique that could significantly reduce internal browning in SnapDragon apples, helping New York growers preserve fruit quality, minimize storage losses, and extend the availability of premium apples. The new approach involves storing apples at 42°F under carefully controlled, low-oxygen conditions.
UK Equine Program Gives Back Through Community Service
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Giving back to Central Kentucky’s horse industry remains an important tradition for the University of Kentucky’s (UK) Ag Equine Programs. During its annual Weekend of Service on October 17-18, 2026, 32 participants contributed more than 80 volunteer hours to support local equine organizations and community initiatives.
Hybrid Grapes Offer New Solutions for New York Vineyards
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson New York's wine industry is increasingly exploring disease-resistant grape varieties as growers look for ways to manage vineyard diseases, reduce pesticide applications, and maintain wine quality. Researchers are examining how hybrid grapes perform under different growing conditions to help producers make informed planting decisions and support the long-term sustainability of the state's wine industry.
Solar Farms May Offer New Revenue for Livestock Producers
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Combining agricultural production with renewable energy generation could provide Pennsylvania farmers with additional opportunities to keep farmland productive while supporting the growing solar energy sector. According to Penn State Extension, dual-use agriculture offers a way to generate electricity and maintain livestock production on the same property.
New Apple Storage Method Reduces Internal Browning by 97%
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Cornell University researchers have identified an improved storage technique that could significantly reduce internal browning in SnapDragon apples, helping New York growers preserve fruit quality, minimize storage losses, and extend the availability of premium apples. The new approach involves storing apples at 42°F under carefully controlled, low-oxygen conditions.
Hybrid Grapes Offer New Solutions for New York Vineyards
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson New York's wine industry is increasingly exploring disease-resistant grape varieties as growers look for ways to manage vineyard diseases, reduce pesticide applications, and maintain wine quality. Researchers are examining how hybrid grapes perform under different growing conditions to help producers make informed planting decisions and support the long-term sustainability of the state's wine industry.
Pork Producers to Connect at Wisconsin Pork Summit
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Wisconsin Pork Association (WPA) will host its first Wisconsin Pork Summit January 28-29, 2027, at The Wisconsin Hotel and Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells. The two-day event will bring together pork producers, veterinarians, agribusiness professionals, policymakers, and industry partners from across the state.
Future Ag Leaders Invited to Missouri Exploration Event
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Northwest Missouri State University will host an agriculture majors exploration event on February 23, 2027, offering prospective students an opportunity to learn more about academic programs and career opportunities in agriculture. The event will allow students to interact with current faculty members and students from the School of Agricultural Sciences.
KET Journalist Laura Rogers Wins Kentucky Farm Bureau Award
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has selected Laura Rogers, a public affairs producer at Kentucky Educational Television (KET), as the recipient of its 2026 Communications Award. The annual recognition honors journalists whose reporting helps audiences better understand Kentucky agriculture, its communities, and the people working in the industry.
Solar Farms May Offer New Revenue for Livestock Producers
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Combining agricultural production with renewable energy generation could provide Pennsylvania farmers with additional opportunities to keep farmland productive while supporting the growing solar energy sector. According to Penn State Extension, dual-use agriculture offers a way to generate electricity and maintain livestock production on the same property.
Wisconsin Calving Workshop Will Focus on Calf Health and Care
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson UW-Madison Extension will offer calving workshops on December 9 and 10, 2026, to help livestock producers strengthen their knowledge of calf care, nutrition, and successful calving management. The sessions will provide practical information and guidance for farmers preparing for the calving season.
Calving Corner Volunteers Needed for 2027 PA Farm Show
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Individuals with experience in Pennsylvania's dairy industry are encouraged to volunteer at the Calving Corner during the 2027 Pennsylvania Farm Show, scheduled for January 9-16, 2026, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The exhibit will celebrate its 10th anniversary by providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about dairy farming and witness the birthing process firsthand.
UK Equine Program Gives Back Through Community Service
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Giving back to Central Kentucky’s horse industry remains an important tradition for the University of Kentucky’s (UK) Ag Equine Programs. During its annual Weekend of Service on October 17-18, 2026, 32 participants contributed more than 80 volunteer hours to support local equine organizations and community initiatives.
Calving Corner Volunteers Needed for 2027 PA Farm Show
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Individuals with experience in Pennsylvania's dairy industry are encouraged to volunteer at the Calving Corner during the 2027 Pennsylvania Farm Show, scheduled for January 9-16, 2026, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The exhibit will celebrate its 10th anniversary by providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about dairy farming and witness the birthing process firsthand.
Future Ag Leaders Invited to Missouri Exploration Event
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Northwest Missouri State University will host an agriculture majors exploration event on February 23, 2027, offering prospective students an opportunity to learn more about academic programs and career opportunities in agriculture. The event will allow students to interact with current faculty members and students from the School of Agricultural Sciences.
KET Journalist Laura Rogers Wins Kentucky Farm Bureau Award
Friday, November 6, 2026 By Blake Jackson Kentucky Farm Bureau (KFB) has selected Laura Rogers, a public affairs producer at Kentucky Educational Television (KET), as the recipient of its 2026 Communications Award. The annual recognition honors journalists whose reporting helps audiences better understand Kentucky agriculture, its communities, and the people working in the industry.
PDP Dairy Managers Institute Returns for 2026
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson Professional Dairy Producers (PDP) will host its two-day Dairy Managers Institute on December 15-16, 2026, at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, offering current and aspiring dairy managers practical skills in leadership, communication, financial management and negotiation. The program is designed to help dairy professionals strengthen management abilities, improve team performance, and prepare their businesses for future challenges.
2027 PA Dairy Summit will Bring Dairy Leaders Together
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The 2027 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit will take place February 3-4, 2027, at the Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center in State College, Pennsylvania. The annual event, organized by the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania and the Center for Dairy Excellence, will bring together dairy producers and industry professionals to discuss opportunities for business development, innovation, and long-term growth in the state's dairy sector.
Missouri Farmers Gain Access to USDA Emergency Loans
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated four Missouri counties as natural disaster areas due to drought, allowing eligible farmers to apply for emergency loans through the Farm Service Agency (FSA). The designation provides financial assistance to agricultural producers facing losses from severe, prolonged, or exceptional drought conditions during the growing season.
New York Wine Industry Eligible for 2026 Mini-Grants
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) opened applications for its 2026 Mini-Grant Program on November 2, 2026, offering financial assistance to wineries, grape growers, wine trails, and regional promotional organizations across the state. Now in its fourth year, the initiative provides flexible funding for marketing, educational, and business development projects that support the growth of New York's wine and grape industry.
Root Crops Help Gardeners Harvest Fresh Food Longer
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson As the growing season comes to an end, many gardeners begin missing the fresh vegetables harvested during summer. However, planting cold-tolerant vegetables can help extend the harvest into late fall and winter.
New York Wine Industry Eligible for 2026 Mini-Grants
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) opened applications for its 2026 Mini-Grant Program on November 2, 2026, offering financial assistance to wineries, grape growers, wine trails, and regional promotional organizations across the state. Now in its fourth year, the initiative provides flexible funding for marketing, educational, and business development projects that support the growth of New York's wine and grape industry.
Gabriella Macari Recognized Among World's Top Wine Experts
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson New York’s wine industry is celebrating a significant achievement as Gabriella Macari, a wine educator, independent consultant, and co-founder of Cab Franc Forward, has earned the prestigious Master of Wine (MW) designation. The accomplishment recognizes her extensive knowledge of the global wine business and strengthens her role as an advocate for New York wine producers.
Kentucky Organic Farming Conference Returns in 2027
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK) will host its 16th Annual Organic Farming Conference, titled “Seeds to Systems: Organic Innovation,” January 29-30, 2027, at the Cave Area Conference Center in Cave City, Kentucky. The two-day event will bring together farmers, researchers, nonprofit organizations, government agency representatives and agricultural service providers to exchange knowledge and explore ways to strengthen regional food systems.
Wisconsin Hosts Global Dairy Delegations at World Dairy Expo
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), through its International Agribusiness Center (IABC), welcomed 13 international delegations representing 21 countries during the 2026 World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin, held September 29 through October 2.
Root Crops Help Gardeners Harvest Fresh Food Longer
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson As the growing season comes to an end, many gardeners begin missing the fresh vegetables harvested during summer. However, planting cold-tolerant vegetables can help extend the harvest into late fall and winter.
2027 PA Dairy Summit will Bring Dairy Leaders Together
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The 2027 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit will take place February 3-4, 2027, at the Penn Stater Hotel & Conference Center in State College, Pennsylvania. The annual event, organized by the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania and the Center for Dairy Excellence, will bring together dairy producers and industry professionals to discuss opportunities for business development, innovation, and long-term growth in the state's dairy sector.
Center for Dairy Excellence Hosts Crop Risk Webinar
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Center for Dairy Excellence will host a free webinar, “Crop Risk Management 101: Know Your Futures & Options,” on Friday, November 13, 2026, from noon to 1 p.m. The session will help dairy producers understand risk management strategies and prepare for the 2027 crop year amid ongoing pressure on farm profit margins.
Gabriella Macari Recognized Among World's Top Wine Experts
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson New York’s wine industry is celebrating a significant achievement as Gabriella Macari, a wine educator, independent consultant, and co-founder of Cab Franc Forward, has earned the prestigious Master of Wine (MW) designation. The accomplishment recognizes her extensive knowledge of the global wine business and strengthens her role as an advocate for New York wine producers.
Center for Dairy Excellence Hosts Crop Risk Webinar
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Center for Dairy Excellence will host a free webinar, “Crop Risk Management 101: Know Your Futures & Options,” on Friday, November 13, 2026, from noon to 1 p.m. The session will help dairy producers understand risk management strategies and prepare for the 2027 crop year amid ongoing pressure on farm profit margins.
Kentucky Organic Farming Conference Returns in 2027
Thursday, November 5, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK) will host its 16th Annual Organic Farming Conference, titled “Seeds to Systems: Organic Innovation,” January 29-30, 2027, at the Cave Area Conference Center in Cave City, Kentucky. The two-day event will bring together farmers, researchers, nonprofit organizations, government agency representatives and agricultural service providers to exchange knowledge and explore ways to strengthen regional food systems.
Cornell IPM Program Generates $143M in Farm Savings
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson A new economic study has found that Cornell University's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program generated as much as $143.7 million in documented agricultural benefits over four decades, demonstrating the financial value of publicly funded pest management initiatives. According to Caitlin Hayes, senior staff writer at Cornell Chronicle, the research was published November 2 in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management.
Cornell IPM Program Generates $143M in Farm Savings
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson A new economic study has found that Cornell University's Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program generated as much as $143.7 million in documented agricultural benefits over four decades, demonstrating the financial value of publicly funded pest management initiatives. According to Caitlin Hayes, senior staff writer at Cornell Chronicle, the research was published November 2 in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management.
Pennsylvania Seeks Nominations for Dairy Veterinary Award
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Pennsylvania Dairy Excellence Foundation has opened nominations for the newly established David Hileman Memorial Veterinary Service Award, recognizing large animal veterinarians who demonstrate outstanding dedication to Pennsylvania’s dairy farming community.
Proper Beef Barn Design Improves Herd Performance
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Designing a new beef cattle barn or renovating an existing facility requires careful planning to ensure adequate space, comfortable housing, and efficient feeding arrangements. Providing sufficient pen and bunk space is essential for maintaining cattle health, feed intake, and overall herd performance, according to Nathan G. Briggs, former Beef Extension Educator at Pennsylvania State University.
Cover Crops and Manure Improve Soil Health
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson A recent University of Missouri study highlights how long-term cover cropping and manure applications can improve soil health, while evaluating practical biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of disease-causing pathogens on farms. The research findings will be presented during a workshop scheduled for November 10, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 p.m. IST at Allen Hall, Conference Room 100.
Why Farmers Should Review Finances During Harvest Season
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Harvest season brings a demanding schedule for farmers, with long hours spent operating combines, transporting crops, and managing field activities. Amid these responsibilities, reviewing business finances may seem like a task best saved for winter. However, harvesting is an important opportunity for producers to assess their financial position and make timely adjustments before the end of the year.
Turkey Project Helps Train Future Farmers and Ag Leaders
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Kentucky State University is expanding agricultural education opportunities for small-scale farmers, students, and community organizations through a hands-on turkey production program at its Harold R. Benson Research and Demonstration Farm. The initiative combines practical poultry education with a Thanksgiving turkey sale, with proceeds supporting future farm activities and operations.
2026 Stride Conference will Connect Students with Ag Careers
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson High school students interested in agriculture, leadership development, and career exploration will have an opportunity to expand their knowledge and build connections at the 2026 Stride Youth Conference, organized by Professional Dairy Producers (PDP). The one-day event will take place Tuesday, November 17, 2026, on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
Pennsylvania Seeks Nominations for Dairy Veterinary Award
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson The Pennsylvania Dairy Excellence Foundation has opened nominations for the newly established David Hileman Memorial Veterinary Service Award, recognizing large animal veterinarians who demonstrate outstanding dedication to Pennsylvania’s dairy farming community.
Proper Beef Barn Design Improves Herd Performance
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Designing a new beef cattle barn or renovating an existing facility requires careful planning to ensure adequate space, comfortable housing, and efficient feeding arrangements. Providing sufficient pen and bunk space is essential for maintaining cattle health, feed intake, and overall herd performance, according to Nathan G. Briggs, former Beef Extension Educator at Pennsylvania State University.
Wisconsin Corn and Soybean Harvests Stay Ahead of Average
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Wisconsin recorded 5.9 days suitable for fieldwork during the week ending November 1, 2026, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service. Rainfall in northwestern Wisconsin provided moisture for fall-seeded crops to germinate, while farmers in drier areas continued fall tillage and manure applications. Topsoil moisture was rated 70% adequate, 21% short, 4% very short, and 5% surplus.
Why Farmers Should Review Finances During Harvest Season
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson Harvest season brings a demanding schedule for farmers, with long hours spent operating combines, transporting crops, and managing field activities. Amid these responsibilities, reviewing business finances may seem like a task best saved for winter. However, harvesting is an important opportunity for producers to assess their financial position and make timely adjustments before the end of the year.
$5M Grant Advances Biochar Research on Working Farms
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing American Farmland Trust (AFT) nearly $5 million over five years through its Conservation Innovation Grants On-Farm Trials program to expand its soil health initiatives nationwide. According to Michael Shulman, Media Relations Strategist at AFT, the funding will support the development of a coordinated Soil Health Management Systems (SHMS) Network.
$5M Grant Advances Biochar Research on Working Farms
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is providing American Farmland Trust (AFT) nearly $5 million over five years through its Conservation Innovation Grants On-Farm Trials program to expand its soil health initiatives nationwide. According to Michael Shulman, Media Relations Strategist at AFT, the funding will support the development of a coordinated Soil Health Management Systems (SHMS) Network.
Cover Crops and Manure Improve Soil Health
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson A recent University of Missouri study highlights how long-term cover cropping and manure applications can improve soil health, while evaluating practical biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of disease-causing pathogens on farms. The research findings will be presented during a workshop scheduled for November 10, 2026, from 10:30 to 11:30 p.m. IST at Allen Hall, Conference Room 100.
2026 Stride Conference will Connect Students with Ag Careers
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 By Blake Jackson High school students interested in agriculture, leadership development, and career exploration will have an opportunity to expand their knowledge and build connections at the 2026 Stride Youth Conference, organized by Professional Dairy Producers (PDP). The one-day event will take place Tuesday, November 17, 2026, on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.
Dairy Wellbeing Workshop Will Focus on Cow Health and Welfare
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 By Blake Jackson The 2026 Dairy Wellbeing Workshop, organized by Professional Dairy Producers (PDP), will help dairy professionals understand how herd management and animal care practices influence cow health, productivity, welfare, and meat quality at the end of a cow’s productive life. The workshop will take place November 18, and 19, 2026, at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
USDA Invests $1.07M in Wisconsin Meat Processing Expansion
Tuesday, November 3, 2026 By Blake Jackson The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest $1.07 million in four Wisconsin meat processing businesses through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) Phase 4 to increase processing capacity and strengthen rural economies. USDA Rural Development Wisconsin State Director Andrew C.
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