Jenny Schlecht

Jenny Schlecht ponders whether always turning to the government for every real or perceived problem in agriculture is serving the industry or hurting its viability and reputation.

Modern agriculture is hopelessly intertwined with politics, Jenny Schlecht points out. That means those working in agriculture need to pay attention and educate themselves on the news of the day.

Amid uncertainty about crop sizes and demand, markets experts are urging farmers to minimize their risk and protect themselves going into harvest season.

The family farm Jenny Schlecht lives on was hit by a tornado on June 20. More than two months later, she explains how the recovery process has been long and painful.

Agweek will have an expanded presence at this year's Big Iron, to be held Sept. 9-11 at the Red River Valley Fairgrounds in West Fargo, North Dakota. Come by to learn something new or just hang out.

Water and property rights are at the crux of the concerns, with residents from Abercrombie and surrounding areas worried their voices are not being heard.

Sunflowers were in full bloom in mid-August, including in North Dakota, which leads the nation in the crop most years. As tourists stop to see the bright blooms, markets and conditions were strong.

Standing on a hill in Morton County, North Dakota, Jenny Schlecht pondered the importance of a diverse ag industry and in having opportunities to do something different when times are tough.

Eating fresh food from the garden or preserving produce, like storing onions in an old nylon, will help feed Jenny Schlecht's family this year. So will food grown by other farmers and sold in stores.

Research happening all over the country can help improve the finances of farms and ranches. Jenny Schlecht says taking advantage of that work can put producers on stronger ground.