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Fall 2025

Fresh Pickings magazine celebrates the incredible food, farms and families that make Iowa a special place to live. 

Celebrate a century of agricultural innovation with Pioneer Hi-Bred, explore a thriving farm operation where potatoes and onions take center stage, and see how genomic selection is transforming dairy cattle breeding — resulting in healthier, more feed-efficient cows. You’ll also meet an Iowa-founded company that crafts whimsical, collectible works of art and find a new destination in Okoboji filled with interactive and inspiring art experiences. Plus, much more!

Feature Articles

Editor's Note: It's All About Perspective An important lesson to learn — both in family life and in farming — is that perspective matters. It’s what helps us find calm in the confusion, purpose in the mundane and gratitude in the middle of a mess.
Family Table: Broccoli Cheddar Bliss This soup warms from the inside out with nostalgic, comforting feelings of home.
Point of Interest: Pearson Lakes Art Center Inspiring art, culture and community in the Iowa Great Lakes.
Rooted in the Land What started as a small farm more than 160 years ago has grown into a thriving operation, with deep roots in tradition and forward-thinking innovation.
A Bird's Eye View Iowa is home to a bounty of birds and birders who love to spot them in their natural habitats ­­­­— a pastime that’s both relaxing and rewarding.
Celebrating a Century of Innovation Pioneer's seed solutions took root in 1926 and continue to flourish in Iowa and beyond.
A Blooming Success Isabel Bloom’s legacy of handcrafted sculpture continues to inspire artists and captivate collectors today.
Finding the Extraordinary in the Everyday On a multigenerational farm in Franklin County, the Plagge family’s ordinary moments tell a bigger story.
Unexpectedly Delicious Sweet, savory and full of Iowa flavor, these desserts reimagine fall baking with comforting, nutty and surprisingly sweet-meets-savory twists.
Breeding for the Future Learn about genomic selection and how it’s revolutionized dairy cattle breeding — resulting in healthier, feed-efficient cows.
Fresh Picked: From Pasture to Price Tag Clean protein for your family.

Recipe Spotlight

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of broccoli cheddar soup. Rich, creamy and loaded with tender broccoli and melty cheese, it's a go-to for chilly nights, cozy lunches or after a long day of harvesting soybeans. While it's often associated with café menus and bread bowls, this soup is surprisingly easy to make at home — and even more satisfying when you do.