In case you were not aware, this week has been deemed National Ag Week, and tomorrow is National Ag Day. This is a day to recognize and celebrate the abundance provided by agriculture. USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack wrote an editorial with a number of facts about US agriculture that are simply mind blowing. American Agriculture is truly an economic engine for our nation and our state.
When it comes to conservation, producers have reduced soil erosion by more than 40% and are national leaders in restoring wetlands. Idaho has over 18,000 acres of land enrolled in Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, and based on the land enrolled, Idaho saves over 36,000 acre feet of water per year, and approximately 146,000 tons of soil are saved due to decreased wind and water erosion.
In order to celebrate Idaho farmers, IASCD encourages you to make a meal this week using as many Idaho products as possible. Here are a few ideas!
A Simple Idaho Steak
Coat steaks in olive oil; sprinkle with fresh cracked pepper and salt.
Grill medium-rare to medium
Add a pat of butter on top of steak after removing it from the grill.
Grilled Idaho Trout with Bacon
Fully rinse inside and outside of trout, and blot dry with paper towels.
Add your favorite seasonings; add a few Idaho onions to the inside of the fish.
Wrap trout with two bacon slices (use butcher’s string to secure bacon to the fish).
Heat your grill to medium-high and grill fish for 7 to 10 minutes; trout should be browned on the outside and cooked through.
As always, have an Idaho potato as a side. It doesn’t matter if it’s baked, mashed or grilled!
Pick up a six-pack of beer from an Idaho brewer who used Idaho hops, barley, or wheat, or a bottle of your favorite Idaho wine.
And since it’s almost Spring, how about some homemade vanilla ice cream using Idaho dairy products and Idaho sugar?
4 eggs
2 1/2 cups sugar
6 cups whole milk
4 cups light cream (whipping cream works too)
2 Tablespoons vanilla
1/2 teaspoon salt
Beat eggs until light. Gradually add sugar until mixture thickens. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. You can use an electric mixer. Freeze in an ice cream maker, and eat well! You may want to hide this from your kids.
Idaho Association of Soil Conservation Districts 