CEDAR RAPIDS – The state remains in the top 5, but Iowa dropped from last year’s second-place ranking in an annual “locavore” index. The index, by Strolling of the Heifers, ranks the best and worst states for eating local foods, based on a per capita comparison of farmers markets, Community Supported Agriculture programs and food […]
Morel of the story: “tremendous” year pr
The morel season is picking up steam, but it wasn’t until today that I found any in the Cedar Rapids area and “find” might be a stretch; these were for sale at the Hiawatha farmers market. Brein Osborn of Vinton was selling small containers of morels for $10 each at the market, which is open […]
Unveiling the mystery of CSAs
Even as they grow in numbers, Community Supported Agriculture programs remain a mystery to many Iowans. Members of the programs, known as CSAs, pay an annual fee upfront to receive weekly shares of a farm’s fresh produce for several months during the growing season. In return, the farmers have a guaranteed source of income
New record set for Iowa precipitation
Sure, we’re tired of the wet, cold weather, but at least it’s taken most of the state out of drought status. Here is the latest update, as of May 2, 2013, from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources:
Three Kings frost warning
Even though we’ve enjoyed temperatures in the 70s and 80s this week, I hope you weren’t tempted to plant your peppers, tomatoes or other tender plants outside. I brought my tomato seedlings indoors in case temps dip below freezing in the next few days. Your perennials should be fine, but as a precaution, you might […]
DNR wants Iowans to head outdoors to red...
A new initiative from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources should hit home with many Iowans. Healthy and Happy Outdoors, or H2O, is an initiative to help Iowans reduce stress and improve their health by connecting with the outdoors. You can sign up to log your activities online and qualify to win some cool prizes, […]
Book Review: America’s Climate Century
I’ve heard our own state Senator, Rob Hogg, describe the challenge of climate change as he speaks to groups about his new book. Hogg, a Democrat from Cedar Rapids, compares it to the challenges his parents’ generation faced in winning World War II and fighting the Cold War. “In the climate century, we will not […]
Weekend Photo Gallery: Backyard Abundanc...
Spring has finally arrived in Iowa, with decent weather, plant sales beginning and Iowans eager to dig in their gardens. Backyard Abundance hosted its annual plant sale in Iowa City and residents of Ely shared plants during an exchange at their Community Center. The Ely Public Library is also the site of a Seed Lending […]
Location is key to farmers market succes...
Location is a prime factor for more than the real estate market. Farmers markets also are finding success and failure based in large part on the markets’ visibility and proximity to neighboring market venues. “The number one thing that everyone agrees on is being on main roads – at
Spring plant sales kick off this weekend...
UPDATE: More plant sales have been added in Oxford and Iowa City. Scroll down to find sales in May 2013. If you’re hoping to add a bit more green – or color – to your landscape, local plant sales are the way to go. Not only are the plants reasonably priced, but because they are […]