What are the unique challenges and rewards of urban beekeeping, and how does Joe Coffman navigate issues like limited space and natural threats such as varroa mites?

Today on Tangled Taproot, hosts John Cowan, Christin Jameson, and Jackson welcome Joe Coffman of Birch Creek Apiary. Joe is a former corporate professional who transitioned to a life of urban beekeeping, managing over 50 thriving colonies. Tune in to hear about some of the challenges and rewards of beekeeping in urban settings, including the diverse flavors of honey and its culinary benefits. The conversation dispels common myths about bees, highlights the environmental benefits of beekeeping, and encourages listeners, particularly urbanites in places like St. Louis, to consider beekeeping as an accessible and rewarding hobby. Joe’s story is a testament to the fulfilling vocation that beekeeping can be, benefiting both the community and the environment. Whether you're an aspiring beekeeper or simply curious about the craft, Joe's experiences and expertise provide valuable insights and inspiration.

Founded in 2020 by John Cowan, Mylk and Hummus makes on-the-go, chickpea-based snacks that focus on flavorful hummus varieties and ready-to-drink plant-based lattes. Mylk and Hummus products nourish the physical and mental endurance needs of today while considering environmental goals for the future. At Mylk and Hummus, plant-based food is made with ingredients proudly sourced through sustainable and regenerative agriculture where farming principles and practices enrich soils, restore watersheds, and lead to healthy ecosystems. The company operates on these principles to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the reversal of global trends in climate instability, habitat loss, and the vitality of the natural world.

Discussion Points:

• Taproot team discusses small-scale Midwest beekeeping
• The world of beekeeping according to Joe, from simple beginnings to over 50 hives, social structure, misconceptions, challenges, diverse honey, and rewarding contributions
• Beekeeping intricacies, locations, types of beekeepers, and honey production process, including commercial pollination and artisanal methods
• Seasonal variations, threats and pathogens, Langstroth hives, queen's productivity, hive evolution, brood box and honey super configurations
• From the corporate world, Joe the ‘outdoorsman’ shifts to yoga, then to beekeeping
• Urban beekeeping, pollination, and sustainable agriculture, and the importance of passing this appreciation to the next generation

Resources:

Email Joe Coffman
Mylk and Hummus
Email Tangled Taproot with show ideas and comments
Tangled Taproot Podcast
Mylk and Hummus Instagram
Mylk and Hummus YouTube
Mylk and Hummus Facebook

Can cover crops and soil microbiomes hold the key to transforming our current farming systems and boosting yields sustainably?

Today on Tangled Taproot, hosts John Cowan, Christin Jameson, and Jackson speak with industry veteran Dr. Rob Myers, Ph.D., Director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at the University of Missouri and former USDA National Director of Sustainable Agriculture.

The conversation explores the burgeoning world of regenerative farming and soil health. Dr. Myers shares insights on the critical role of soil microbial life and the challenges posed by post-World War II farming practices. Regenerative methods, such as cover crops, offer promise despite adoption hurdles. The episode reveals historical agricultural lessons from figures like Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, illustrating their lasting impact on modern practices. Dr. Myers highlights the growing bipartisan support for sustainable farming policies and explores innovative agricultural technologies, including drones and virtual fencing. You, the consumer, can also play a role in supporting regenerative agriculture, as a collective effort is desperately needed to build a sustainable food system.

Founded in 2020 by John Cowan, Mylk and Hummus makes on-the-go, chickpea-based snacks that focus on flavorful hummus varieties and ready-to-drink plant-based lattes. Mylk and Hummus products nourish the physical and mental endurance needs of today while considering environmental goals for the future. At Mylk and Hummus, plant-based food is made with ingredients proudly sourced through sustainable and regenerative agriculture where farming principles and practices enrich soils, restore watersheds, and lead to healthy ecosystems. The company operates on these principles to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the reversal of global trends in climate instability, habitat loss, and the vitality of the natural world.

Discussion Points:

• Dr. Rob Myers, the Director of the Center for Regenerative Agriculture at the University of Missouri, the complex world of soil health and regenerative agriculture
• The historical and geological aspects of farmland, including Native American interactions and glacial influences, post-World War II farming practices
• Challenges in adopting these practices, economic concerns and policy restrictions, innovative crops like Kernza, a perennial grain, and the support from government and private companies for farmers experimenting with regenerative methods
• Cover crops to protect soil, renting fields for grazing
• Historical insights from the farms of Thomas Jefferson and George Washington, how these founding fathers recognized the benefits of cover crops for soil fertility, the implications of these practices in shaping agricultural policy in Washington, DC
• Technology and regenerative ag, drones for seeding cover crops and virtual fencing for livestock management
• How consumers can influence market trends and support regenerative agricultural products, playing a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable food system
• This is not just for large farm businesses, you can experiment with your own gardens and fields

Resources:
www.cra.missouri.edu
www.northcentral.sare.org
Mylk and Hummus

How does the harvest-to-order model employed by the Kansas City Food Hub’s farms minimize food waste and maximize efficiency in the supply chain?

Today on Tangled Taproot, hosts John Cowan, Christin Jameson, and Jackson focus on the transformative impact of the Kansas City Food Hub on local farms and communities. Thomas Smith, Director of Operations at the Kansas City Food Hub, reveals the co-op’s innovative model that connects small and medium-sized farms with larger institutions such as schools and restaurants. The farmer-owned cooperative structure combines traditional and cutting-edge farming techniques. The harvest-to-order model minimizes food waste and enhances the freshness of produce. The Food Hub conducts educational field trips to promote healthier food choices among children and collaborates with other local organizations, schools, and sports teams. Tune in to hear how local food systems like Kansas City Food Hub strengthen community bonds and support sustainable agriculture.

Founded in 2020 by John Cowan, Mylk and Hummus makes on-the-go, chickpea-based snacks that focus on flavorful hummus varieties and ready-to-drink plant-based lattes. Mylk and Hummus products nourish the physical and mental endurance needs of today while considering environmental goals for the future. At Mylk and Hummus, plant-based food is made with ingredients proudly sourced through sustainable and regenerative agriculture where farming principles and practices enrich soils, restore watersheds, and lead to healthy ecosystems. The company operates on these principles to significantly reduce our carbon footprint and contribute to the reversal of global trends in climate instability, habitat loss, and the vitality of the natural world.

Discussion Points:

• Local KC Food Hub fosters community connection
• Thomas Smith intro and background
• How it works: Farmers' co-op food aggregation/distribution model
• The Food Hub and the Alliance Southwest Missouri food boxes
• The harvest-to-order model, technology
• Partnering with community organizations, farm tours, field trips
• Building community through agriculture
• Local food corridor network building
• Quality and personal connection in farming

Resources:
Kansas City Food Hub
Kansas City Food Hub Facebook
Kansas City Food Hub LinkedIn
Kansas City Food Hub Instagram
Mylk and Hummus
Email Tangled Taproot with show ideas and comments
Tangled Taproot Podcast
Mylk and Hummus Instagram
Mylk and Hummus YouTube
Mylk and Hummus Facebook