In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Dr. Glenda Pereira sits down with Annie Leahy, a recent University of Maine zoology graduate and incoming Clemson University DVM student, to discuss her honors thesis on emerging pathogens affecting ruminant livestock in Maine. Leahy’s research analyzed cases submitted to UMaine’s Veterinary Diagnostic Lab between September 2022 and January 2025, covering 633 ruminant cases across cattle, goats, sheep and alpacas.

• UMaine Veterinary Diagnostic Lab
• UMaine Extension small ruminant programming

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

A pest that many producers thought was confined to the history books is making headlines again. In this episode, Dr. Colt Knight sits down with Ashley Wright of the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension to discuss New World screwworm, a devastating livestock pest that has reemerged in North America. They explain what screwworm is, how it differs from ordinary fly strike and why veterinarians and livestock producers are taking the threat so seriously.

The conversation covers the history of screwworm eradication, recent cases detected in the southern United States, impacts on cattle markets and cross-border livestock movement, and practical steps producers can take to protect their animals. From wound management and biosecurity to sterile fly control programs, this episode provides timely information every livestock owner should know as the industry works to prevent another major outbreak.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

This Independence Day week, Dr. Colt Knight is joined by Dr. Dean Fish of Arizona’s Anchor F Cattle Co. to explore one of America’s most recognizable symbols: the cowboy hat. From John B. Stetson’s original design in the 1860s to today’s custom-crafted masterpieces, Colt and Dean trace the history, function and cultural significance of the hat that helped shape the American West. Along the way, they discuss cowboy etiquette, hat-making traditions, regional styles and why a good hat is much more than a fashion statement.

Whether you’re a lifelong cowboy, a weekend horse owner or someone who has never worn a hat, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the traditions, values and craftsmanship that continue to influence rural America. Pull up a chair, grab a slice of apple pie and join us as we celebrate Independence Day with a story that is uniquely American.

Why does a ribeye cost so much more than it did a few years ago?

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Colt Knight sits down with Dr. Gregg Rentfrow, meat science specialist at the University of Kentucky, while attending North Carolina State University’s BBQ Camp. Together, they break down the many factors driving today’s record-high meat prices, including historically low cattle inventories, rising feed and fertilizer costs, inflation, avian influenza, drought, international trade disruptions and livestock disease concerns.

From beef and pork to poultry, the conversation explores why consumers continue to pay premium prices and what that means for farmers, processors and families at the grocery store. The discussion also takes a broader look at changing protein consumption trends in the United States and around the world. Colt and Gregg examine the rise of chicken as America’s most-consumed protein, the resurgence of animal-based protein demand, the challenges facing local meat processors and the future of plant-based meat alternatives.

Along the way, they share insights into pork production, food processing, consumer perceptions and why predicting future food prices may be harder than ever. Whether you’re a farmer, food enthusiast or simply wondering why your grocery bill keeps growing, this episode provides valuable context on the forces shaping today’s food system.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight sits down with Sue Ishaq, associate professor and microbiome researcher at the University of Maine, to explore the fascinating world of microbes and their role in animal and human health. From her nonfarm upbringing and path through animal science to building a dynamic research lab, Ishaq shares how curiosity and a few career pivots led her into the rapidly evolving field of microbiome science.

The conversation dives into cutting-edge research on how microbes interact with diet, including the surprising health benefits of foods such as broccoli sprouts and the role of gut microbes in producing anti-inflammatory compounds. Along the way, they connect microbiome science back to livestock production, comparing human digestion to ruminant systems and discussing probiotics, diet shifts and microbial resilience. Whether you’re a farmer, student or just curious about what’s happening inside your gut, this episode offers an engaging and practical look at the invisible world shaping health and agriculture.

• Learn more about Dr. Sue Ishaq

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, Dr. Glenda Pereira celebrates June Dairy Month with a solo episode on how robotics are shaping dairy farm management. She discusses the benefits and considerations of milking robots, including milk production, labor, cow traffic, facility design and the importance of consistency in daily routines.

Dr. Pereira also takes a closer look at manure robots and how they can support cleaner walkways, improved hoof and udder hygiene, reduced labor needs and fewer disruptions to cow behavior, especially in robotic milking systems. Listeners will hear about practical considerations such as floor type, maintenance, internet and power needs, winter weather challenges and backup plans.

A June 30, 2026 field day will give participants the opportunity to see milking robots and manure robots in action.

Episode Resources

• Victor Cabrera. 2026. “Making the Switch to Robots: A New Budgeting Tool for Transitioning to Automatic Milking Systems.”
• Doerfler, Martin and Bernhardt. 2017. “Implications of Robotic Walkway Cleaning for Hoof Disorders in Dairy Cattle.”

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, host Colt W. Knight is once again joined by Richard Brzozowski, professor emeritus and former Extension livestock specialist, for a practical and story-driven discussion on common mistakes new farmers make and how to avoid them. Drawing from decades of experience in Extension and agriculture, Brzozowski shares insights from working with beginning farmers, along with reflections from his travels observing agricultural systems around the world.

The conversation covers critical topics such as starting too big, failing to keep records, making poor equipment decisions and relying on a single market outlet. Listeners will hear real-world examples, from livestock purchasing mistakes to infrastructure design flaws, and learn why building a strong network of trusted advisers is essential. Whether you are just getting started or looking to refine your operation, this episode delivers practical, no-nonsense advice to help you avoid costly pitfalls and build a more resilient farm business.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.

Raising kids on a farm comes with a unique mix of challenges, responsibilities and rewards. In this episode of the Maine Farmcast, we dive into what it really means to parent in an agricultural setting. From chore schedules and safety considerations to balancing farm work with family life, our conversation explores how farm families pass along values such as work ethic, resilience and stewardship while navigating the realities of modern agriculture.

We discuss the benefits of growing up around livestock and land, the lessons children learn through hands-on experiences, and how farm parents adapt as operations, expectations and family dynamics change over time. Whether you are raising the next generation on a working farm, considering how to safely involve kids in daily chores or simply curious about farm family life, this episode offers thoughtful insights, practical perspectives and a few relatable moments along the way.

University of Maine Cooperative Extension is an equal opportunity institution and provider committed to nondiscrimination. For more information, visit extension.umaine.edu/nondiscrimination.