Episodios

  • #1 - Introduction to the ISAID Grant

    #1 - Introduction to the ISAID Grant
    Feb 14 2024
    Welcome to "The Clever Cow," where we dive into the dynamic world of dairy innovation! 🎙️ In our debut episode, join us as we unravel the story of the Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID) Grant, a groundbreaking research initiative shaping the future of Idaho's dairy industry. 🐄🌿 We'll take you on a journey through the dairy bioeconomy model, exploring how the ISAID Grant transforms dairy waste into valuable bioproducts. From biochar-amended fields to the Clean Water Machine filtering manure, we unveil the diverse projects contributing to a more sustainable and economically vibrant dairy sector. Meet the brilliant minds behind the ISAID Grant – a multidisciplinary team spanning the state of Idaho. Discover their collaborative efforts, combining expertise from various fields to pioneer innovative solutions for dairy challenges. Dairy Bioeconomy Model: https://www.uidahoisaid.com/about
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    29 m
  • #3 - Transforming Manure into Biodegradable Plastic

    #3 - Transforming Manure into Biodegradable Plastic
    May 21 2024
    Let's delve into an innovative solution that could revolutionize the dairy industry—turning dairy manure into biodegradable plastic. Joining us are Dr. Erik Coats, a Civil & Environmental Engineering Professor at the University of Idaho, and his grad student Brandon Boyd. Dr. Coats and his team are pioneering a process that converts dairy manure into a biological, biodegradable thermoplastic known as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). Throughout the episode, they explain the three-stage process that involves fermenting manure to volatile fatty acids, sustaining bacteria that store these acids as PHA, and producing commercial quantities of PHA in batch reactors. They discuss the environmental benefits of this technology, its potential to create new revenue streams for dairy farmers, and the challenges they face in scaling up production.
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    48 m
  • #7 - Innovation, Education & the Future of Dairy

    #7 - Innovation, Education & the Future of Dairy
    Sep 26 2025
    What does the future of dairy look like? On this episode, Savanah sits down with Dr. Mark McGuire, University Distinguished Professor and Program Director for the ISAID Grant, for a big-picture conversation about where dairy has been, and where it’s going. From climate-smart feed additives to manure-based fertilizers, Dr. McGuire shares what excites him most about the innovations reshaping the industry. They discuss how science, technology, and industry consolidation are influencing modern production, and how producers can adapt while staying rooted in their values. Along the way, Dr. McGuire clears up common misconceptions about dairy, reflects on public perception, and offers grounded advice for navigating change. Plus, hear his thoughts on beef-on-dairy, carbon markets, robotic milking, and the importance of keeping consumers connected to agriculture. Whether you’re a dairy producer, student, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode delivers a thoughtful and forward-looking take on sustainable dairy.
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    43 m
  • #8 - Air Quality and Emissions in Dairy

    #8 - Air Quality and Emissions in Dairy
    Mar 5 2026
    In this episode, host Savanah Carpenter sits down with Dr. Gilbert Miito, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist in Air Quality at the University of Idaho. Dr. Miito shares his journey from growing up on a small dairy farm in rural Uganda to working with dairy producers and researchers in the United States. The conversation explores where emissions come from on dairy farms, how management practices influence air quality, and what practical solutions are emerging to reduce emissions while maintaining productivity. Dr. Miito discusses promising feed strategies for reducing methane, manure management practices that can improve environmental outcomes, and the role of research and technology in helping producers make informed decisions. He also shares insights into how the upcoming Idaho CAFE research dairy will help scientists better understand emissions and evaluate solutions at a commercial scale. This episode highlights the importance of practical research, collaboration with producers, and the continued innovation shaping the future of dairy sustainability. Learn more about Dr. Gilbert Miito: https://verso.uidaho.edu/esploro/profile/gilbert_miito/overview
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    58 m