With hopes of curbing rural population loss, Iowan Jessie Field Schambaugh created programs that led to the largest youth development organization in the United States. We hear about the history of 4-H from Laurel Burgmaier, the producer of a new Iowa PBS documentary, 'The Legacy of 4-H,' and Harry Smith, who voiced and co-wrote the script. Then, we learn about some of the oldest book clubs in Iowa from their members, Veronica Fowler and Peggy Murphy. They share tips on how to create groups that last.
Courtesy Jeannie Schrader
Sheila Brummer
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Iowa Public Radio
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At this year's Obermann Symposium, University of Iowa researchers are tackling the achievement gap for rural students, unequal access to nutritious food and communities not adapting to an aging population. The symposium is meant to harness the work being done in rural areas to better collaborate. Ben Kieffer speaks with one of the organizers, law professor Daria Fisher Page, and the experts focusing on rural issues; professor of gerontology Brian Kaskie; professor in learning sciences and educational psychology Duhita Mahatmya; and professor of occupational and environmental health Brandi Janssen. -
Many Midwest residents distrust their tap water, opting to purchase water and ice from standalone kiosks. University of Iowa researchers recently found that these kiosks may contain at least trace amounts of lead. Rachel Schnelle investigated this research on behalf of the Midwest Newsroom. We talk with her and two University of Iowa researchers behind this study that sampled many kiosks around Iowa.
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Each year, Choose Iowa awards grants to local farmers and agriculture-related businesses. The state initiative also helps promote products made and grown in Iowa — and it’s continuing to grow. One western Iowa farm is thriving with support from the program.
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As Iowa’s rural communities age and young people continue to leave, immigrants are fueling population growth. Data shows that one year of Trump administration immigration enforcement policies have affected that growth. -
Farmers face a number of challenges these days, from higher input costs to fewer available resources. The stress of it all can take a toll, not only on their livelihood, but on their mental well-being. -
Cedar Summerstock Theatre in Saint Ansgar was awarded $18,000 by the National Endowment for the Arts to present a series of performances that highlight American history. It’s part of a $16 million initiative to support projects celebrating America’s 250th birthday.
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It’s no secret people are moving away from rural areas of Iowa. The exodus toward bigger cities has been growing for decades. Fewer than a quarter of Iowans live in the country. In 1960, it was around 50%. One Iowan took an unusual route to reverse that trend. -
For more than 60 years, Iowa State University has sponsored an annual land survey. This year shows a small increase that lags behind inflation. -
A special election on Tuesday features two candidates from the same small town in northwest Iowa. The outcome could be an indicator of political sentiment in rural Iowa after recent contests in the state — and across the country — have favored Democratic candidates.
