More NW Wolf Predation & Improving Soil Health

More NW Wolf Predation & Improving Soil Health

More NW Wolf Predation & Improving Soil Health plus Food Forethought. I'm Greg Martin with today's Northwest Report.

A joint effort to improve the quality of our soils, and the benefits we receive from them, is producing results. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Chief Jason Weller talks about some of benefits created as a results of improved soil health.

WELLER: Healthy soil help improve the water infiltration that when it rains the water doesn't actually run off the field it get into the soil itself. It improves the water holding capacity of the soil so by increasing the organic matter and the porosity of the soil. You get more water in there to the root zone where the crops can get at that water. It helps improve water quality. It protects our streams and rivers and also our aquifers. It increases the nutrient availability of fertilizers and manure and poultry little but also just the decomposing biomass.

Wolves have once again attacked and killed eight sheep in northeast Oregon according to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. The wolves also injured two flock dogs there to protect the herd, the first time that has occurred. The wolves were from the Mt. Emily pack, one of eight documented packs in Oregon. The agency says it's working with the producer to prevent further attacks, and will coordinate with other area livestock owners.

Now with today's Food Forethought, here's Lacy Gray.

Hurrah! It is officially autumn, which means football season. And even if you're not a football fan, that means tailgate parties. Tailgate foods and drinks though can often be high in calories and fat. So, how do you still throw a "mean tailgater" , while making the fare healthier? One solution fits right in with the tail gating tradition, and that's grilling meats. Choosing lean cuts of meat means you'll be grilling healthy. To go with those tasty grilled meats serve big trays of fresh fruits and veggies, with plenty of low fat dipping sauces or even flavored low fat cream cheeses on the side. As far as drinks go, there are numerous low calorie or non-alcoholic ales out there to choose from, and don't forget natural ciders, sparkling fruit drinks, and of course water. If you just can't see a tailgate party without chips, go for the baked variety, which pack a crunch without all the calories. By going with healthy alternatives, you'll be doing yourself and your friends a favor. They may not realize that they're eating healthy, but they will notice you're serving up some really tasty tailgate goodies.

Thanks Lacy. That's today's Northwest Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Ag Information Network.

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