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As energy demand surges across Idaho, what does it mean for the farmers and ranchers who depend on affordable, reliable power? We sit down with Eric Olsen to break down the growing strain on the grid, the rise of large energy users, and how it could impact irrigation, input costs, and the future of agriculture. It’s a conversation that connects power lines to pivot lines.

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Barley is sometimes known as the underappreciated crop, but to breweries across the nation, barley is essential. Laura Wilder, Executive Director of the Idaho Barley Commission, talks about how Idaho has become the #1 barley-producing state, helping give it the unofficial title as the “Beer State.”

Laura gives us a look at how an ag commodity commission works—covering research, marketing, and coordination, including the vital role of bringing in foreign clients. Finally, she shares how rough the markets are right now and how farmers are going to have to stick together to get through the next few years.

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Many people mistakenly think that cryptocurrency is just bitcoin. Actually, there are many different types of cryptocurrency. One recently developed is SPUD, a meme coin built for the agricultural community. SPUD was created by Cody Holm, 5th generation farmer from Southeast Idaho.

Cody knows there are skeptics about crypto. In this episode he takes the opportunity to address misconceptions and shares where he hopes it will go in the future.

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Mary Huff is the Director of Owyhee County Community Planning, as well as a rancher. She has a message for everyone to be involved with their local and state elected officials. From planning and zoning to farmland loss, Mary shares her real-world experiences.

She reminds us that people living in rural areas have a responsibility to speak up for rural issues.

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Matt Dorsey, the President of the Idaho Farm Bureau Federation, joins Cam and Ott for this episode of Dirt Road Discussions. They explore Matt's experiences as a farmer, his insights from traveling the state, and the importance of community and mentorship in agriculture. They also dive into the challenges facing farmers today, while emphasizing the resilience and optimism needed to navigate these tough times. Matt shares his vision for the future of agriculture, advocating for a focus on the producer's perspective and the importance of collaboration within the farming community.

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Consumers can be overwhelmed as they walk through the aisles of the grocery store. Food has become a battleground where marketing labels and misinformation persuades people around their eating choices.

Michele Payn brings clarity and common sense to the conversations surrounding food, farming, and science. Whether it’s helping farmers and scientists communicate more effectively, tackling food misinformation, or addressing mental health in agriculture.

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Winter months in rural Idaho may lack a Friday night football game, but locals are discovering Skijoring: a sport where competitors ski behind a galloping horse, navigating jumps, grabbing rings, and trying not to break any bones. It has been described as rodeo adrenaline for participants and crowds, only you need a warm coat.

Shailee and Sage Lish got hooked on skijoring from friends in Wyoming and brought it to southeast Idaho. In this interview, they share how a tournament is set up, who participates, why hundreds come out to watch it, how to pick the right horse, and of course stories of epic crashes.

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100th Episode! The Dirt Road Discussion crew literally hit the road to travel to Sun Valley for 10-minute interviews with a lineup of ag experts attending the Idaho-Oregon Grain & Oilseed Convention. They each share a personal message on the status and future of farming in the Northwest.

Erin Hansell-Heideman
2026 President, Oregon Wheat Growers League

Kyle Wangemann
Vice President, Idaho Grain Producers Association; Committee Member, National Wheat Growers Association

Cliff Tacke
Commissioner, Idaho Wheat Commission

Josh Jones
Commissioner and Past Chairman, Idaho Barley Commission; Vice President, National Barley Growers Association

Jonathan Rosenau
Chairman, Idaho Oilseed Commission; President, Idaho Grain Producers Association

David Brewer
Director (Oregon), Pacific Northwest Canola Association