Solar Energy In Agriculture

Feb 10, 2016

By Mary Griffith

Many farmers consider investing in on-farm solar energy systems to stabilize energy input costs. Farmers interested in installing solar energy systems can learn more about the technology and potential cost savings during an OSU Extension workshop on February 24th at Der Dutchman in Plain City or February 18th at the Crawford County Economic Development Partnership Building in Bucyrus.

Solar energy systems offer many benefits, including the positive environmental impact of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and reduced future energy costs. Energy inputs are important to agriculture, with energy-related expenses representing an average of more than 13% of farm production expenses in 2005-2008. Solar energy stabilizes future energy costs, is associated with low maintenance costs, and is free to the producer after the initial investment in installation is recovered.

In order to help producers understand whether on-farm solar is a good fit for their operations, the workshop will offer information on important factors to consider while predicting return on that initial investment. Other important financial considerations including tax credits, financing options, and funding opportunities, will also be discussed.

Source:osu.edu

Video: Pandemic Risks in Swine - Dr. John Deen

I’m Phil Hord, and I’m excited to kick off my first episode as host on The Swine it Podcast Show. It’s a privilege to begin this journey with you. In this episode, Dr. John Deen, a retired Distinguished Global Professor Emeritus from the University of Minnesota, explains how pandemic threats continue to shape U.S. swine health and production. He discusses vulnerabilities in diagnostics, movement control, and national preparedness while drawing lessons from ASF, avian influenza, and field-level epidemiology. Listen now on all major platforms.

"Pandemic events in swine systems continue to generate significant challenges because early signals often resemble common conditions, creating delays that increase spread and economic disruption."