Living the Country Life Radio Program: Week of April 9, 2012

John Deere Maintenance Monday: Improve fuel economy through maintenance

In this edition of Maintenance Monday, we're answering a question from Neil in California. He wants tips to get the best fuel economy for his utility tractor. Mark Hanna is an extension ag engineer at Iowa State University. He says regular tractor maintenance is the key.

Radio interview source: Mark Hanna, Extension Ag Engineer, Iowa State University

Listen here: John Deere Maintenance Monday: Improve fuel economy through maintenance

John Deere Maintenance Monday: Lawn Mower: Uneven cut

In this edition of Maintenance Monday, we're answering a question from Mike in Texas. He says his mower doesn't cut even, which makes the yard look uneven. He's installed new blades and leveled the deck with no luck. Is there something he's overlooking?

Radio interview source: Shane Louwerens, John Deere Ag Tech Instructor, Northwest Mississippi Community College

Listen here: John Deere Maintenance Monday: Lawn Mower: Uneven cut

Horse walkers

It can be difficult to find the time to properly exercise your horses. Horse walkers are capable of keeping multiple horses conditioned all at once. They can also be used for halter breaking, rehabilitate an ailing animal, or as a cool down after a long ride.

Radio interview source: Jeff Rash, Marketing Director, Priefert

Listen here: Horse walkers

Getting boat out of storage

When the weather warms up boat owners are chomping at the bit to get it out and have fun. A safe and uneventful season can depend a lot on what you do with the boat before it even touches water.

Radio interview source: Matt Miser, Licensed Coast Guard Captain, Boatsafe.com

Listen here: Getting boat out of storage

Country View: Robin Morris -- Mad River Food Hub

Robin Morris of Waitsfield, Vermont, had been working with small businesses for many years, but his dream was to expand the agricultural economy. After doing some research, he felt that a food hub would be a viable way to help local farmers process, store, and distribute their products.

Radio interview source: Robin Morris, Founder, Mad River Food Hub

Listen here: Country View: Robin Morris -- Mad River Food Hub

Tilling dry soil

Wet, muddy soil is no good for tilling, but neither is soil that's too dry. You may actually have to add moisture to rock-hard ground so the tiller can get through.

Radio interview source: Ward Upham, Extension Horticulturist, Kansas State University

Listen here: Tilling dry soil

HVAC for outbuildings

Heating and cooling an outbuilding is tricky because of poor insulation and a lot of open space. The right system for your buildings should meet needs with energy efficiency.

Radio interview source: Jon Edelen, Sales Engineer, Lozier Heating & Cooling

Listen here: HVAC for outbuildings

Gardening kits for children

Kids love to play in the dirt, so make it a learning experience at the same time. Gardening kits for children help them understand nature's process.

Radio interview source: Julie Parker-Dickerson, Education Program Coordinator, National Gardening Association

Listen here: Gardening kits for children

Asian Longhorn Beetle

There is another bug that is wreaking havoc on our trees. The Asian Longhorn Beetle is a threat to hardwoods, and infestations have to be quickly eradicated.

Radio interview source: Bruce Parker, Entomology Professor, University of Vermont

Listen here: Asian Longhorn Beetle

Progressive Ag Safety Days

Plans are underway all over the country for a one-day safety event for kids. The Progressive Ag Foundation offers hands-on training to keep children safe at home and on the farm.

Radio interview source: Susan Reynolds, Executive Director for Programs, Progressive Agriculture Foundation

Listen here: Progressive Ag Safety Days