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Letter
from the Editor
It used to be hard to grow up in Idaho without sticking a foot in agriculture.
I grew up in Boise on an acre that seemed huge. My father, a church
pastor, fattened a calf and lamb each summer for winter meat. We raised
chickens, goats, and rabbits-also for food. Dad's organic garden fed
the entire congregation.
I especially loved summer adventures in the Rupert/Burley area with
the MacRae family, with kids my age, whose farm grew everything from
hogs to corn. This was before TV and computers, but we never got bored
or lacked for adventure.
This issue has been especially rewarding, a chance to look at the big
picture of Idaho agriculture today, with its challenges and successes.
Bill Loftus discovers 8
trends in the state's foundational economy. Loftus, Marlene
Fritz, and I also share ways our college scientists and educators help
solve ag problems, large and small.
In other stories, Barbara Smith finds the bright and musical Kaufman
brothers. Donna Emert falls in love with Idaho's
Master Gardeners (MG)-volunteers who do things like prepare
correctional institution inmates
with horticultural skills, and draw children
into the science and fun of gardening. Sunday church proved the best
way to bring MG tips to Twin Falls and Idaho Falls Hispanics.
Redesigned web-Write to us. You are viewing our redesigned
searchable website-thanks to Ludmilla Saskova. We at CALS would love
to hear from you. Please share your opinions on topics we cover, what
you like, what needs improving, and so on. We'll share your thoughts
in the online letters page.
Mary Ann Reese
mreese@uidaho.edu |