Creeping bellflower is an invasive perennial plant that outcompetes other species and requires dedicated removal efforts. It's been thriving lately as it survived the drought and loves the rain.
![Two people milking a cow while others look on at a county fair.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/Allison%20Wright%20ANR%20intern%20and%20Rachel%20Rynda%20%2069th%20Princess%20Kay%20Hutchinson%20Dairy%20Days.jpg?h=89f94730&itok=c-IycLMn)
Given the high risk posed by lactating dairy cattle to other cattle, the rest of the exhibition community, and the public, lactating dairy cattle should not attend exhibitions including county and state fairs, until 2025 or beyond.
![Farmstead in spring with just plowed field in foreground.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/Farmstead%202_screen.jpg?h=fd878726&itok=yUt2WPJL)
The 2024 families honored cover a wide spectrum of farming, from traditional crops and livestock to community-based ventures and operations producing a wide range of fruit, vegetables and flowers. They were chosen based on their demonstrated commitment to enhancing and supporting agriculture.
![4-H ag ambassadors standing with Dean Durgan.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/4-H-ag-ambassadors-with-Dean-Durgan.jpg?h=b11911db&itok=XAp6rDXw)
Are you interested in learning more about agriculture and networking with others from across Minnesota? Become a Minnesota 4-H Agriculture Ambassador! Applications will be accepted until Aug. 31.
![A group of gardeners pose behind the "Gardin Comunitario" sign.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/jardin-comunitario-fhw_0.jpg?h=1231f06d&itok=JZ_UWLYH)
Extension’s “Garden in a Box” program gives Latino families opportunities for growth and learning in the garden and in their personal lives.
![Research field of ryegrass varities with varying levels of crown rust.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/rust-perennial-ryegrass.jpg?h=19d17509&itok=_SuuQD5P)
Turf is experiencing multiple threats from weeds and fungal diseases. Lowering your lawn's stress may lower your own.
![Minnesota 4-H State Ambassadors wearing official green blazers while standing behind a University of Minnesota podium.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/MN-4-H-state-ambassadors-announcing.jpg?h=8552f7e8&itok=JecB52-s)
The newly selected Minnesota 4-H State Ambassador team consists of 30 youth from across the state who will serve as youth leaders and spokespeople for Minnesota 4-H.
![Red pine stand with white pine seedlings growing underneath it.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/White%20pine%20generation%20under%20thinned%20red%20pine.jpg?h=03341046&itok=t8H5KLto)
Tree species at the southern edge of their current range will face increasing climate stress, and hardwoods not currently seen in Minnesota may slowly take their place.
![Soybean plants in a field.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/flowering-soybean_behnken.jpg?h=00678232&itok=B4cpuDUO)
Preparing for lower agricultural margins requires strategic planning and proactive measures to ensure the sustainability and profitability of agricultural operations.
![A greenleaf with many small holes caused by the copper color Japanese beetle feeding on it.](/sites/extension.umn.edu/files/styles/crop_featured_image_crop/public/Japanese-beetle-adult-feeding-jhahn.jpg?h=eac00c7a&itok=5q6tLVJs)
In the last week, southeast Minnesota and the metro reported the first Japanese beetles of the season. Populations will continue to grow then taper off in August. Time to refresh yourself on dealing with this insect.
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