On Life and Land

When cattle get through a fence and damage a neighbor's crops, who's responsible — the livestock owner or the landowner? The answer can depend on where you live. Fence laws, livestock liability and property-boundary rules vary widely across the country and can even differ from one county to the next. In this episode, University of Maryland Professor Paul Goeringer , an agricultural law expert, explains some of the most common — and confusing — types of farm fence laws . We explore how open-range and closed-range concepts work, who may be responsible for maintaining a boundary fence, and what can happen when escaped livestock damage neighboring property. Along the way, we look at how fence laws reflect the relationships, responsibilities and unwritten expectations that have long shaped rural communities. If you own land, raise livestock, farm next to livestock or simply want to better understand rural property rights and agricultural law , this episode offers a practical introduction to what may be riding on that fence line. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

What does it take to grow the flawless turf beneath a backyard, ballfield or stadium? Missouri turf farmer Shawn Helt takes us behind the scenes of sod farming and sports turf production , explaining how professional growers establish, maintain and harvest high-quality turf for residential landscapes and athletic fields. Along the way, we get to know the man behind the grass. Helt is also a former amateur race car driver and an avid collector of motorsports memorabilia, vintage signs and unusual pieces of Americana —including an old tour bus once used by country music legend Waylon Jennings . In this episode, discover how a turf farm works, what separates exceptional sod from ordinary grass, and how farming, craftsmanship and an eclectic collection of hobbies all come together in one Missouri operation. Based on "Grass Roots," originally published in the March 2026 issue of The Furrow . On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

What does farming reveal about who Americans are? 🇺🇸 From the nation's founding to today, agriculture has done more than feed the country—it has shaped the American identity itself. At the birth of the United States, roughly 90% of Americans earned their living through farming. Today, even when counting the entire agriculture and food system, that figure is closer to 10%. So what changed—and what hasn't? In this episode, we explore how agriculture continues to influence the way Americans see themselves through history, culture, art and myth. From the iconic cowboy to Grant Wood's American Gothic , we examine why farming remains one of the country's most enduring symbols, even as fewer people work the land. Joining us is Neil Dahlstrom , author, historian and archivist for Deere & Company , who shares insights into the deep connections between American agriculture , rural culture , John Deere , and the nation's evolving identity. In this episode, you'll learn: 🌾 How agriculture helped shape the American character 🇺🇸 Why farming remains central to the U.S. identity despite urbanization 🎨 The cultural significance of icons like American Gothic and the American cowboy 📚 How history, literature and art have shaped perceptions of agriculture 🚜 Why agriculture still matters to every American—not just farmers Whether you work in agriculture, love history, or are curious about the forces that shaped the United States, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on one of America's oldest and most influential industries. Guest: Neil Dahlstrom, Author & Archivist, Deere & Company On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

🚜 Not sure where to start with farm succession planning? You're not alone. Many farm families know they need a succession plan, but the process can feel overwhelming, emotional, and difficult to begin. In the second installment of this 2-part episode of On Life & Land , we continue our conversation with Lance Woodbury , farm succession planning expert and partner at Pinion Global , to break down the practical first steps every farm family can take to begin planning for the future. You'll learn: Why so many families delay succession planning The biggest risks of waiting too long How to start productive family conversations The logical first steps for creating a transition plan Ways to protect both family relationships and the farm business Whether you're preparing the next generation to take over or simply beginning to explore your options, this episode offers actionable guidance to help you move forward with confidence. 🌱 Listen now to learn how a thoughtful succession plan can help preserve your family's legacy and position your operation for long-term success. Learn more at LanceWoodbury.com On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

🚜 Not sure where to start with farm succession planning? You're not alone. Many farm families know they need a succession plan, but the process can feel overwhelming, emotional, and difficult to begin. In the first installment of this 2-part episode of On Life & Land , we sit down with Lance Woodbury , farm succession planning expert and partner at Pinion Global , to break down the practical first steps every farm family can take to begin planning for the future. You'll learn: Why so many families delay succession planning The biggest risks of waiting too long How to start productive family conversations The logical first steps for creating a transition plan Ways to protect both family relationships and the farm business Whether you're preparing the next generation to take over or simply beginning to explore your options, this episode offers actionable guidance to help you move forward with confidence. 🌱 Listen now to learn how a thoughtful succession plan can help preserve your family's legacy and position your operation for long-term success. Learn more at LanceWoodbury.com On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

AI is transforming agriculture faster than ever — but are farmers using it to its full potential? 🌱🤖 In this episode, you'll learn practical ways foundational AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can improve farm operations, decision-making, communication, and crop management. Nick Horob, founder of Harvest Profit, joins Brian Kohlmann, director of AI and emerging technologies at Bader Rutter, to explore how artificial intelligence is becoming a real-world tool for modern agriculture — not just another search engine. Listeners will learn: ✅ How AI can streamline on-farm workflows ✅ Prompting tips for better AI results ✅ Which AI tools work best for agriculture applications ✅ How AI can assist with difficult conversations and business decisions Whether you're a 10,000-acre row crop farmer, 500-head seedstock operation, or 5-acre market garden grower, this episode offers practical insights into using generative AI in agriculture today. 🎙 Featuring: Nick Horob — Founder, Harvest Profit Brian Kohlmann — Director of AI & Emerging Technologies, Bader Rutter On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

The High Plains Aquifer plays a critical role in supporting U.S. agriculture—but how is it changing over time? In this episode, we speak with Dr. James Butler , senior hydrologist at the University of Kansas, to examine current trends in aquifer levels, the factors influencing water use, and what the data tells us about long-term sustainability. 💧 In this episode, we explore: Key drivers behind High Plains Aquifer depletion The relationship between irrigation practices and groundwater levels Regional differences in water availability across the Midwest Ongoing research and strategies to improve water efficiency What sustainable water management could look like moving forward This episode offers a data-driven look at groundwater management, agricultural sustainability, and resource planning —valuable for producers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of food systems.

Can a small rural town reinvent itself—and actually thrive? Ottumwa, Iowa proves the answer is yes. 🌱 In this episode, we sit down with Kris Patrick, Director of Main Street Ottumwa , to unpack how a decade-long revitalization effort transformed a struggling downtown into a vibrant hub for businesses, residents, and community life. You'll discover: 🏛️ How historic preservation fuels economic growth 🏘️ The role of housing development in rural revitalization 🌳 Why investing in public spaces drives long-term success 📈 A proven Main Street model other rural communities can replicate Whether you're a city planner, economic developer, or community leader, this episode offers actionable insights into rural development strategy, downtown revitalization, and small-town growth . On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

What if an entire ancient civilization was hiding in plain sight—until 2002? Range Creek is one of North America's best-preserved archaeological discoveries… and most people have never heard of it. In this episode, we uncover the astonishing story behind Range Creek, Utah—a remote canyon that protected a vast Fremont Native American site for centuries. From intricate rock art to intact granaries filled with ancient grain, this discovery reshaped what we know about early civilizations in the American West. You'll hear directly from Dr. Shannon Boomgarden , field station director, and Corinne Springer , field station manager, as they reveal: 🏺 Who the Fremont people were and how they lived 🧭 Why Range Creek remained untouched for so long 🔍 What archaeologists are still discovering today 🌄 How the site is being preserved for future generations Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, Native American history, or hidden discoveries, this episode offers a rare look into a truly untouched past. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

Can you start farming without land or a family farm? Yes—and greenhouses might be the key. In this episode, we explore greenhouse and nursery production as one of the more accessible entry points into agriculture. For aspiring farmers who didn't grow up on a farm and don't have inherited land, controlled-environment agriculture can offer a lower-cost, scalable way to get started. 🌱 What you'll learn in this episode: • Why greenhouse and nursery production can be a practical starting point for new farmers • The economics of small-scale greenhouse operations • How beginners can enter the ornamental, and nursery plant markets • The skills, infrastructure, and mindset required to succeed in controlled-environment agriculture • Lessons from an industry insider working with national turf and ornamental producers Our guest is Broch Martindale, nursery producer and national strategic accounts manager for Corteva Agriscience, who brings us firsthand insight into nursery and greenhouse production, plant markets, and the opportunities available to beginning farmers. Whether you're dreaming about farming, exploring urban agriculture, or looking for low-capital agriculture business ideas, this conversation offers a realistic look at how new growers can find their way into the industry. 🌿 Topics include: greenhouse farming, nursery production, controlled-environment agriculture, beginning farmer strategies, and ornamental plant markets.

The Gathering of the Green is one of the premier events for vintage John Deere collectors, restoration enthusiasts, and agricultural history fans — and this year's theme, "An American Original," celebrates the legacy of one of farming's most iconic brands. Host David Jones sits down with Ken Reese, one of the founders of the Gathering of the Green, to explore how the event began, why it continues to grow, and what makes it a must-attend experience for collectors and rural history lovers alike. 🌾 In this episode, you'll hear about: • The origins and mission of The Gathering of the Green • What makes John Deere restoration culture so enduring • Behind-the-scenes stories from the event's founders • Highlights including rare parts vendors, restoration workshops, farm and factory tours, and memorabilia sessions • Why this biennial gathering feels like a reunion for the agricultural community Whether you're restoring a tractor, fascinated by rural heritage, or simply love stories of American innovation, this episode offers insight, nostalgia, and inspiration from the heart of farm country. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

How did a thriving farming valley lose its water — and what does it still mean for California agriculture today? In this episode, we explore the history, conflict, and lasting impact of the California Water Wars. The story of Owens Valley and the city of Los Angeles is one of the most controversial chapters in American water history — a clash between urban growth, rural livelihoods, and the struggle over one of the West's most precious resources. Host David Jones speaks with Dan Keppen, counselor to the Family Farm Alliance and a longtime expert on California water policy, to unpack how the California Water Wars began, why they still matter, and what they reveal about water rights, agriculture, and government power today. 🌾 In this episode, you'll learn: • The history behind the Owens Valley water diversion • How Los Angeles reshaped California's water landscape • Why water rights remain central to California agriculture • The lasting political, legal, and cultural consequences of the conflict • How past decisions still influence modern debates over farming and water policy This episode offers historical perspective and thoughtful context on an issue that continues to shape the future of the American West. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

Some machines do a job. Others change a generation. The John Deere 4020 didn't just work the land — it became part of farm families, memories, and livelihoods. Decades after production ended, these tractors are still starting at dawn and heading back to the field. So what made the 4020 different? We sit down with Chris Boyens from John Deere Heritage Marketing to trace the story behind the iron — the engineering breakthroughs, the farmer loyalty, and the quiet reliability that turned a tractor into an icon. In this episode, you'll hear: 🌾 How the 4020 changed everything for row-crop farmers 🔧 Which features made it feel years ahead of its time ❤️ Why owners refuse to sell them, and why collectors love them If you've ever smelled diesel at sunrise or watched the dust roll behind a field cultivator, this one's going to feel like home. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

In this season-closing episode, award-winning ag journalist and photographer Katie Knapp shares the behind-the-scenes world of Christmas tree farming featured in her latest story for The Furrow magazine, "The Boughs That Bind." Katie—fresh off travels with the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists—breaks down the realities most of us never see: 15-year planning horizons, shifting consumer trends, labor challenges, shearing by hand, and the families preserving farmland in rapidly developing regions. She also reflects on her path as both Writer of the Year and Photographer of the Year for the Ag Communicators Network, and what fuels her passion for human-centered ag storytelling. If you love stories from rural America, specialty crops, or the people who keep agriculture moving, this episode will leave you with a deeper appreciation for the trees that make the holidays bright. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

What happens after service ends? In this inspiring conversation, John Deere Global Executive Recruiter and Governance Lead Dave Underwood, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, shares how Deere is opening doors for veterans through its dedicated military hiring programs. Dave also talks about building a strong veterans' support network in and around the Quad Cities Area, and offers practical advice for veterans navigating the transition to civilian careers. Whether you're a veteran, employer, or ally, you'll learn how purpose-driven hiring and community connection can make a lasting impact. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

Over the course of nearly 100 years, Future Farmers of America has given millions of members the tools they've used to build careers in agriculture and agribusiness, education, research, even sports and entertainment. In this episode of John Deere's On Life and Land podcast, FFA alum and Territory Manager Abrah Wright talks about her journey from FFA blue to John Deere green. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

High yields, low prices, shifting demand – it's been a strange and unsettling few years for U.S. corn growers. In this episode of John Deere's On Life and Land, we speak with Neil Caskey, CEO of the National Corn Growers Association, on a wide range of rapid-fire topics, including the record-setting 2025 crop, new export markets, and the future of nationwide, year-round E15. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

Steve Werblow, field editor for John Deere's The Furrow magazine and president of the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists , has seen agriculture on six continents. In this episode, we chat with Steve about telling ag's story on a global scale, about foreign perceptions of U.S. agriculture, and about some of his favorite moments during his international travels. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

From Missouri to Tennessee to North Carolina to Iowa, John Deere plans to invest nearly $20 billion in U.S. manufacturing over the next ten years. In this episode, we chat with Jon Chase, Vice President, Turf & Utility Business Unit, to learn more about the investment and expansion plans, and about the impacts on local communities. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.

What have we learned about soil health in the last 10 years? And wow do we even define soil health? Is it simply organic matter content? And what can farmers start doing right now to help boost the health of their own soils? Join us as we talk with Bill Spiegel, farmer and field editor for The Furrow, about everything happening in the ground underfoot. On Life & Land is produced for John Deere by Bader Rutter and is hosted by David Jones, former editor of John Deere's The Furrow magazine. Recording, mixing and mastering services are provided by RecWest Studio, and our music is by Dale May.