The Poor Prole’s Almanac

Shana Hanson, a visionary in sustainable agriculture, returns to share her pioneering work with tree fodder. Despite facing equipment delays and the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Shana's determination led to the successful 2023 harvests, highlighting the promise of tree and shrub silage as nutritious livestock feed. With support from a SARE grant, she and her team have developed a prototype machine to separate leaves from brush, marking a significant step forward in sustainable feed solutions. Our episode dives into the intriguing development of the delimber, crafted alongside Carl Hallen. This innovative machine drastically trims down processing time, transforming tree fodder into a practical alternative to traditional livestock feed. Shana shares the unexpected success of using multiflora rose and the hurdles of managing species like gray birch and poplar. Her insights shed light on the complexities of incorporating diverse plant species into organic farming practices. Listeners will discover the nutritional boons of leaf silage integration into livestock diets, revealing field trials that showed enhanced milk yields and improved dietary choices. Shana's research underscores the delicate balance of tree toxicity and nutrient availability, emphasizing the ecological finesse required in sustainable agriculture. As we wrap up, the excitement for Shana’s ongoing research is palpable, pointing toward a future where tree fodder could redefine agricultural practices. Join us on this journey of innovation and potential discovery in the realm of sustainable farming. Check out Shana's farm and research at: https://3streamsfarmbelfastme.blogspot.com/p/tree-fodder-info.html   For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Sustainable Agriculture, Tree Fodder, Livestock Feed, SARE Grant, Prototype Machine, Nutritional Testing, Livestock Trials, Mini Chainsaw Delimber, Multiflora Rose, Gray Birch, Poplar, Animal Husbandry, Leaf Silage, Nutrient Availability, Environmental Stewardship, Tree Toxicity, Protein Content, Animal Palatability, Hay, Ensiling, Listeria Risks, Milk Quality, Sustainable Farming

Hannah Kass, a joint PhD candidate from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, invites us into her world of research and activism, where she navigates the complex intersections of social movements, state power, and liberation. Through her experiences as a "farm punk," Hannah critiques the often reformist and state-based approach to food sovereignty in the U.S., promoting agroecology as a pathway to challenge and ultimately transform state control over food systems. Her insights reveal the exploitation within local food movements and the urgent need for authentic control to achieve true food sovereignty. Our conversation broadens to explore the concept of the commons and the challenges of engaging with public lands in the U.S., especially under the shadow of a dominant carceral state. We touch on key resistance movements like Atlanta's Cop City, highlighting their role in the ongoing struggle for community and food sovereignty. Hannah discusses diverse tactics for building solidarity and the need for prefiguration, urging us to question the legitimacy of state actions and to support those affected by legal challenges, creating counter-narratives that defy state demonization of movements. Venturing further into the realm of environmental politics and social movements, our discussion uncovers the limitations of liberal environmental policies and the surprising alliances between hunters and environmentalists. Hannah shares her experiences from teaching environmental social sciences, where bridging ideological divides becomes a crucial element of curriculum design. We also explore the poignant journey of the Adama Fellowship, where young Jewish individuals engage in farming, reshaping their identities and political perspectives. To read Hannah's work, visit: https://www.hannahkass.com/research To support the Forest Speech Fund, visit: https://bit.ly/helptheatl61 For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/  

Join us as we explore the intricate world of forests with Dr. Allie Kosiba, a top-notch forest ecophysiologist and State Extension Forester at the University of Vermont. Dr. Kosiba brings her extensive research on tree physiology to the forefront, sharing how trees are reacting to the pressures of climate change, acid rain, and other environmental challenges. Our discussion highlights the significance of forest monitoring through techniques like aerial surveys, which provide essential insights into maintaining healthy forest ecosystems amid a rapidly changing climate. We also delve into the struggles of white pine forests in the Northeast, examining how historical land use patterns have contributed to current vulnerabilities. Dr. Kosiba stresses the crucial role of active forest management strategies in promoting species diversity and complexity, which enhance forest resilience against diseases worsened by climate change. The conversation expands into the realm of forest management techniques, exploring the benefits of forest thinning, selective planting, and assisted migration to create more adaptable forest ecosystems. Further, our discussion touches on the delicate process of sap extraction from sugar maples and its sensitivity to shifting weather patterns. Dr. Kosiba discusses strategies to bolster resilience, such as introducing hardier tree species and recognizing the vital role of snow in protecting soil health. As we explore the broader impacts of climate change on our forests, we emphasize the importance of fostering carbon and biodiversity while confronting the challenges of monoculture stands. With optimism and actionable insights, this episode encourages proactive steps to help our forests adapt and thrive, securing their essential roles in our environment for future generations. To check out Dr. Kosiba's work, visit: https://www.uvm.edu/extension/profile/alexandra-ali-kosiba For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Forests, Climate Change, Forest Health, Forest Monitoring, Tree Physiology, Aerial Surveys, Ground Truthing, White Pine, Northeast, Forest Management, Species Diversity, Forest Resilience, Climate Resilience, Forest Thinning, Selective Planting, Assisted Migration, Sap Extraction, Sugar Maples, Snow, Carbon, Biodiversity, Monoculture Stands, Complex Adaptive Systems, Ice Age, Human Intervention, Landowners, Community Initiatives

Ethan Bonnin, a passionate ecologist and researcher, brings his expertise from the borderlands of southeastern Arizona to our podcast, exploring the intricate balance between ecology and agriculture in the American Southwest. With his background in wildlife biology and conservation, Ethan sheds light on the environmental impacts of livestock grazing on fragile riparian ecosystems. He shares his firsthand experiences and fieldwork insights that reveal the pressing need for legislative action to protect these ecologically vital areas, particularly in the face of relentless drought conditions and habitat degradation. Our discussion takes a critical look at the historical and current land management practices contributing to land degradation in the Southwest. We examine the effects of cattle grazing on public lands, highlighting the damaging cycle of desertification and overgrazing that threatens once-flourishing grasslands. Ethan discusses the controversial role of rotational grazing and the need for innovative solutions, such as flash grazing, to mitigate environmental impacts. We also reflect on the broader implications of urbanization, particularly in desert cities like Phoenix, where water extraction strains ancient aquifers, disrupting both human and ecological communities. Ethan's efforts in environmental advocacy highlight the societal disconnect from our natural world, challenging listeners to rethink societal priorities that often place economic interests above environmental sustainability. Through Ethan's vivid imagery and personal stories, we journey into the heart of Arizona's environmental challenges and the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how we interact with and value our ecosystems. Join us as we engage in a thought-provoking conversation on fostering a deeper connection with our environment, advocating for change, and ensuring the preservation of our planet's ecological and cultural integrity for future generations. Follow Ethan on Instagram @barefoot_biological For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   Key Words: Ecology, Agriculture, American Southwest, Livestock Grazing, Riparian Ecosystems, Legislative Action, Desertification, Land Management, Cattle Grazing, Public Lands, Drought, Habitat Degradation, Urbanization, Water Extraction, Environmental Advocacy, Paradigm Shift, Environmental Sustainability, Desert Cities, Water Availability, Monsoon Rains, Rotational Grazing, Savory Method, Seed Banks, Tree Recruitment, Beaver Removal, Wetland Drainage, Aquifer Recharge, Native Vegetation, Flash Grazing, Cat Ownership, Urbanization, Water Cycles, Rising Temperatures, Erratic Weather Patterns, Environmental Awareness, Social Justice, Indigenous Communities, Corporate Exploitation, Political Figures, Oak Flat Controversy, Environmental Preservation, Cultural Integrity, Desertification Awareness, Imagery, Instagram, Environmental Stress, Technological Prowess, Natural Environments

Discover the intriguing world of chufa, or tiger nuts, and their ancient significance in human diets. Learn about their role in the beloved Spanish drink, horchata, and how indigenous techniques made them agricultural gems. The podcast reveals chufa’s surprising nutritional benefits, even outshining staples like soy and wheat. With unique properties that enhance resilience in farming, chufa could revolutionize sustainable agriculture. End on a hopeful note as the journey through this fascinating plant leaves listeners eager for more discoveries!

The streets of Chicago are alive with tension, and the backdrop of our episode is nothing less than the real-life drama of ICE operations and the city's spirited resistance. We welcome back Omar Flores from the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, who joins us to recount his personal encounter with ICE officers, unmasking their covert tactics and the community's unwavering resolve to fight back. His story of confronting ICE agents in unmarked vehicles and the community's rapid response serves as a poignant reminder of the power of collective action in the face of intimidation. The heart of our discussion beats with the rhythm of grassroots resilience and the alarming escalation of ICE's methods. We navigate through the scenes in neighborhoods like Pilsen, where families are torn apart with chilling impunity. Local heroes from organizations such as the Pilsen Rapid Response Network and Organizing Communities Against Deportation emerge as beacons of hope, orchestrating peaceful standoffs and documenting every move to hold authorities accountable. Together with Omar, we dissect the strategies of resistance, the crucial role of documentation, and the pressing need for transparency in these times of crisis. As the episode unfolds, the broader implications of ICE's actions ripple through communities, affecting students and activists alike. We explore the unsettling consequences of visa revocations and deportations, particularly among those involved in activism. With a focus on the legal, emotional, and societal impacts, we highlight the ever-important engagement of immigrant rights organizations in Chicago. These stories of courage and defiance illuminate not just the struggle of today but the ongoing battle for justice and dignity in the face of relentless adversity. For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: ICE Raids, Chicago, Resistance, Community, Grassroots, Deportation, Immigrant Rights, Activism, Transparency, Documentation, Collective Action, ICE Surveillance, Escalation, Rapid Response, ICE Operations, Pilsen, Omar Flores, Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, ICE Agents, Unmarked Vehicles, Community Outreach, Immigration Enforcement, ISAP, Detentions, Ankle Bracelets, Sanctuary City, FOIA Requests, Visa Revocations, Deportations, Palestinian Activism, Repression, Immigrant Rights Organizations, CARPER, ICER, OCAD, Protests, Activists, DACA, Community Engagement, Hope

Join us for a captivating exploration into the world of the evening primrose, a fascinating plant known for its resilience and unique characteristics. We kick things off by unraveling the botanical intricacies of the evening primrose family, highlighting its ability to thrive in disturbed habitats like roadsides and abandoned fields. Our humorous take on the transcription service's interpretation of our podcast's name, including a playful nod to New Jersey's pork rolls, sets the tone for an engaging episode. As we celebrate the evening primrose's remarkable seed viability and adaptability, we also touch on its misunderstood status as a weed, likening its persistence to a civilization's industrial waste. Listen in as we explore the historical and genetic journey of the evening primrose. With a nod to its native roots in North America, we discuss how indigenous peoples, particularly the Cherokee, utilized the plant's roots for sustenance. We reflect on the evening primrose's journey to Europe in the 19th century and ponder the French fascination with root crops. The conversation humorously speculates on the potential advancements in genetic technology inspired by the plant's unique traits, adding a playful twist with terms like "CRISPR technology" and "cruncher technology." Our discussion takes an intriguing turn as we examine the evening primrose's genetic conservation mechanisms, focusing on its balanced lethal genes and chromosome rings. We consider the plant's historical significance in indigenous diets and its ecological impact, drawing comparisons to other plants like groundnuts.   To read Dr. Koziol's work, visit her Google Scholar page here. For MycoBloom, please check out their products here! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/   key words: Evening Primrose, Botanical Wonders, Resilient Plant, Genetic Marvels, Genetic Technology, Genetic Conservation, Genetic Advancements, Genetic Mechanisms, Genetic Diversity, Genetic Traits, Genetic Rules, Genetic Clones, Indigenous Peoples, Medicinal Qualities, Ecological Impact, Smoke Detectors, Legal Advice, Gardening Advice, LLC

Dr. Liz Koziol, a pioneering assistant research professor at the University of Kansas, shares her compelling journey into the realm of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and their pivotal role in grassland restoration. Her unconventional path, sparked by an unexpected lab job, and guided by mentors Jim Bieber and Peggy Schultz, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of plant-microbe interactions. We discuss how AM fungi symbiotically support plant nutrition, bolster plant immune responses, and significantly impact plant competition and ecosystem dynamics. Our conversation takes a dynamic turn as Dr. Koziol unveils MycoBloom, her entrepreneurial venture bridging a crucial market gap by delivering high-quality native fungi to restoration practitioners. The dialogue highlights the daunting challenges in isolating and cultivating these fungi, while shedding light on the pressing quality control issues within the commercial microbial inoculants industry. Dr. Koziol emphasizes the transformative agricultural benefits of AM fungi, from boosting crop growth to revitalizing soil health, underscoring the necessity for reliable and effective solutions in ecological restoration. We delve into the complexities of the mycorrhizal fungi industry, tackling issues from regulation to the lack of global standards. Dr. Koziol offers insights into the work of InVam, a nonprofit committed to maintaining quality and expertise in the field. As we explore the potential of mycorrhizal fungi in enhancing plant diversity and combating invasive species, Dr. Koziol articulates the importance of diversity and local adaptation in AMF communities. Despite industry hurdles, there is optimism about the fungi's incredible potential in environmental restoration and agriculture, promising a brighter, more sustainable future.   To read Dr. Koziol's work, visit her Google Scholar page here. For MycoBloom, please check out their products here! For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key words: Mycorrhizal fungi, Grassland restoration, Plant-microbe interactions, AM fungi, University of Kansas, Plant nutrition, Plant immune responses, Ecosystem dynamics, MycoBloom, Entrepreneurial venture, Native fungi, Restoration practitioners, Quality control, Agricultural benefits, Crop growth, Soil health, Microbial inoculants, Industry challenges, Regulation, Global standards, InVam, Nonprofit, Ecological succession, Inhibiting weeds, Pathogens, Filler organisms, Quality control, Expertise, U.S. regulatory landscape, Ecological restoration, Plant diversity, Invasive species, Seedlings, Seed-based approaches, Old growth fungal inoculants, Late-sessional plants, Ecological resilience, Korean natural farming, Open-access research, Skepticism, Industry standards, Product efficacy, Reliability, Environmental restoration, Collective effort, Increased awareness, Effective utilization

Imagine forests that once covered vast swathes of the southeastern United States, now reduced to a fraction of their former glory. Join us with Bill Finch, co-founder of Finch Conservation, as we explore his lifelong mission to preserve the longleaf pine forests, one of North America's richest ecosystems. Bill's childhood adventures in Mississippi and Alabama's woods sparked a passion that led to his book "Longleaf: Far as the Eye Can See," offering a fresh perspective on conserving these critical habitats. Climate change is reshaping ecosystems, and in this episode, we delve into the role of American elms and the complex relationships within forest ecosystems. We discuss the necessity of strategic human intervention to help species adapt, while avoiding the pitfalls of invasive species. Bill draws parallels between ecological and medical practices, highlighting our limited understanding of these systems and the urgent need for further research to protect the balance of nature. Together, we address the pressing need for collective action in the face of environmental challenges, and the hope that this crisis could inspire a renewed relationship with nature. The conversation emphasizes creativity and diverse perspectives in crafting effective conservation strategies. Capturing the beauty of these landscapes, Bill’s wife’s photography in "Longleaf: Far as the Eye Can See" serves as a powerful testament to the potential of these ecosystems as a model for conservation efforts. Tune in to uncover the challenges and hopes for securing a sustainable future for the southeastern United States. To grab Bill's book, visit: https://finchconservation.net/ For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org To support this podcast, join our patreon for early, commercial-free episode access at https://www.patreon.com/poorprolesalmanac For PPA Restoration Content, visit: www.restorationagroecology.com For PPA Merch, visit: https://breadandrosespress.com/ For PPA Native Plants, visit: www.nativenurseries.org To hear Tomorrow, Today, our sister podcast, visit: www.tomorrowtodaypodcast.org/ Key Words: Conservation, Southeast, Longleaf Pine Forests, Biodiversity, Preservation, American Elms, Climate Change, Ecological Balance, Species, Genetic Diversity, Soil Microorganisms, Alabama, North America, Oaks, Hickories, Public Interest, Federal Funding, Environmental Conservation, Collective Action, Wake-up Call, Creativity, Diverse Opinions, Photography, Savanna System, New Jersey Pine Barrens, Funding

Ethan Tapper, a Vermont-based forester and author, discusses the intricacies of forest stewardship and the urgent challenges posed by climate change. He advocates for transparent conversations about controversial practices like herbicide use, emphasizing that action is often better than inaction. Ethan also dives into deer overpopulation in Vermont, detailing its ecological impact and the complexities surrounding hunting regulations. His insights encourage open dialogue about conservation, urging listeners to embrace humility and adaptability in their environmental efforts.