More than 157,000 Iowans received the latest issue of Fresh Pickings magazine through mail, email, and social media this week, according to an April 22 announcement. The publication from the Iowa Food & Family Project aims to make modern agriculture accessible and relevant by featuring editorial content and photography focused on food, health, and farming.
The magazine’s current issue covers topics such as urban gardening, expanding local food access, a profile of a veterinarian connecting consumers with farms, and insights into the community of Oskaloosa. It also includes stories about three farmers during the spring season and recipes that use Iowa-grown proteins. One article features a unique farm business raising fish on soy-based diets for global markets. Summer Ory, director at the Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) and farmer from Earlham, shares her perspective on spring preparations for planting.
Fresh Pickings is published quarterly at no cost. It is available at Earl May Garden Centers across Iowa while supplies last, distributed at Iowa Food & Family Project events by partners featured in each issue. Readers can also view it online or request mailed subscriptions through iowafoodandfamily.com/magazine/subscribe.
The ISA uses checkoff funds to support programs that increase demand for soybeans, conduct research projects for farmers’ benefit, and deliver information to producers according to its official website. The association promotes community engagement through initiatives like CommonGround Iowa as outlined on its website.
ISA also presents annual leadership awards recognizing exceptional contributions among soybean farmers as noted by the organization. Serving as Iowa’s Qualified State Soybean Board according to ISA, it extends services to nearly 37,000 soybean producers statewide per its website. The association seeks to enhance demand for soybeans through market development efforts, research initiatives and policy advocacy according to ISA.
With its focus on both agricultural innovation and consumer connection throughout Iowa communities, Fresh Pickings reflects ongoing efforts by organizations like ISA to keep residents informed about developments in farming.
