The Clever Cow

University of Idaho ISAID Grant

Step into the future of sustainable dairy with The Clever Cow, a podcast launched by the University of Idaho’s ISAID Grant. Hosted by ISAID Communications Director Savanah Nunes Carpenter, this engaging series explores how a dynamic, multidisciplinary team is reshaping the dairy industry through innovation and research. From manure-to-market solutions to the science behind the dairy bioeconomy, The Clever Cow unpacks the ISAID Grant’s most transformative research projects and technologies. Through exclusive interviews with leading researchers, extension specialists, and seasoned industry professionals, listeners gain firsthand insight into the challenges, breakthroughs, and big ideas driving more sustainable, resilient dairy systems. Whether you're a producer, student, scientist, or simply curious about where dairy is headed, The Clever Cow bridges the gap between research and real-world impact, offering practical takeaways and fresh perspectives from the cutting edge of sustainable agriculture.

Episodes

  1. #7 - Innovation, Education & the Future of Dairy

    09/26/2025

    #7 - Innovation, Education & the Future of Dairy

    What does the future of dairy look like? On this episode, Savanah sits down with Dr. Mark McGuire, University Distinguished Professor and Program Director for the ISAID Grant, for a big-picture conversation about where dairy has been, and where it’s going. From climate-smart feed additives to manure-based fertilizers, Dr. McGuire shares what excites him most about the innovations reshaping the industry. They discuss how science, technology, and industry consolidation are influencing modern production, and how producers can adapt while staying rooted in their values. Along the way, Dr. McGuire clears up common misconceptions about dairy, reflects on public perception, and offers grounded advice for navigating change. Plus, hear his thoughts on beef-on-dairy, carbon markets, robotic milking, and the importance of keeping consumers connected to agriculture. Whether you’re a dairy producer, student, or simply curious about where your food comes from, this episode delivers a thoughtful and forward-looking take on sustainable dairy.

    43 min
  2. #6 - Empowering the Next Generation

    04/07/2025

    #6 - Empowering the Next Generation

    In this episode, Dr. Kattlyn Wolf, Professor of Agricultural Education at the University of Idaho, and Melissa Renfrow, graduate student and education lead within the Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID Grant), discuss how the education pillar of the grant is preparing students to lead the future of sustainable dairy. They explore how workshops, hands-on learning experiences, and professional development opportunities are building student confidence and expanding their understanding of the dairy industry. From on-farm tours and career panels to preparing research presentations for the national Waste to Worth Conference, this conversation highlights how ISAID is helping students connect classroom learning with real-world challenges. Dr. Wolf and Melissa also share insights into developing classroom-ready curriculum for high school educators, the importance of science communication, and how these efforts are creating pathways for students to thrive in agricultural careers. This episode offers an inspiring look at the ways education is driving the future of sustainability and innovation in dairy. In this episode: - Why student education is critical to addressing sustainability challenges - Real-world experiences that prepare students for their careers - Preparing for the Waste to Worth Conference - Creating curriculum resources for ag teachers - Reflections and advice for students entering agriculture Listen in to discover how the ISAID Grant is investing in future leaders to build a more sustainable dairy industry.

    39 min
  3. #5 - Biochar and Soil Health

    09/09/2024

    #5 - Biochar and Soil Health

    Join us as we dive into the world of environmental soil chemistry with Dr. Daniel Strawn, a professor from the University of Idaho and a dedicated researcher on the ISAID Grant. Join your host, Savanah Nunes, as we explore innovative approaches to soil health, the transformative use of dairy manure, and the cutting-edge technology known as the Clean Water Machine. Dr. Strawn sheds light on how biochar, when integrated with dairy manure, serves as a powerful soil amendment that not only enhances soil health but also reduces environmental impacts through nutrient recovery and carbon sequestration. We delve into the science behind biochar's effectiveness, its benefits, and its role in sustainable agriculture. Additionally, we discuss the Clean Water Machine—an innovative system designed to purify water by removing contaminants and impurities, making it safe and suitable for reuse or consumption. This segment highlights how such technologies are crucial in advancing environmental sustainability within the dairy industry. Listeners will gain insights into: The benefits and challenges of using dairy manure as a soil amendment. The role of biochar in improving soil health and mitigating nutrient leaching. The functionality of the Clean Water Machine and its impact on water treatment. The broader environmental and economic impacts of these sustainable practices. Tune in to discover how Dr. Strawn's research is not only advancing our understanding of soil chemistry but also how it's paving the way for new sustainable practices in the dairy industry. Whether you're a farmer, an environmentalist, or simply curious about the future of agriculture, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating a more sustainable and resource-efficient future.

    57 min
  4. #4 - Sustainable Dairy Economics and Carbon Credits

    06/22/2024

    #4 - Sustainable Dairy Economics and Carbon Credits

    In this episode, we dive into the fascinating world of sustainable dairy economics. Join your host, Savanah Nunes, as she sits down with Dr. Hernan Tejeda, ISAID Grant Economist and University of Idaho Associate Professor & Extension Specialist, to explore the financial dimensions of sustainable innovations in the dairy industry. We discuss the pressures facing the dairy industry to become more sustainable, the economics of ISAID's biodegradable plastic made from manure, dairy carbon credits, how they work and their incentives and risks, lastly, we will discuss the steps dairymen can take to become more sustainable. Dr. Tejeda provides invaluable insights into these topics, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of sustainable dairy. Whether you're a dairy producer, industry professional, or simply curious about sustainable practices, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and actionable advice.

    30 min
  5. #3 - Transforming Manure into Biodegradable Plastic

    05/21/2024

    #3 - Transforming Manure into Biodegradable Plastic

    Let's delve into an innovative solution that could revolutionize the dairy industry—turning dairy manure into biodegradable plastic. Joining us are Dr. Erik Coats, a Civil & Environmental Engineering Professor at the University of Idaho, and his grad student Brandon Boyd. Dr. Coats and his team are pioneering a process that converts dairy manure into a biological, biodegradable thermoplastic known as polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA). Throughout the episode, they explain the three-stage process that involves fermenting manure to volatile fatty acids, sustaining bacteria that store these acids as PHA, and producing commercial quantities of PHA in batch reactors. They discuss the environmental benefits of this technology, its potential to create new revenue streams for dairy farmers, and the challenges they face in scaling up production.

    48 min
  6. #2 - The Science Behind Dairy Composting with Mario de Haro-Martí

    03/15/2024

    #2 - The Science Behind Dairy Composting with Mario de Haro-Martí

    Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of dairy composting with our special guest, Mario de Haro-Martí, University of Idaho Extension Educator and ISAID Grant Member. Mario takes us on an enlightening journey through the intricate process of composting and its pivotal role in sustainable dairy practices. From understanding the nuances of compost amendments to exploring the meticulous monitoring techniques, we uncover the science behind dairy composting and its profound impact on environmental sustainability. Discover how Mario's research is revolutionizing dairy waste management, reducing air emissions, and enhancing compost quality to benefit both producers and the environment. Links: https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/publications/publication-detail?id=cis1179 https://www.uidaho.edu/extension/publications/publication-detail?id=cis1190 https://lpelc.org/effects-of-adding-clinoptilolite-zeolite-on-dairy-manure-composting-mix-on-the-compost-stability-and-maturity/

    53 min
  7. #1 - Introduction to the ISAID Grant

    02/14/2024

    #1 - Introduction to the ISAID Grant

    Welcome to "The Clever Cow," where we dive into the dynamic world of dairy innovation! 🎙️ In our debut episode, join us as we unravel the story of the Idaho Sustainable Agriculture Initiative for Dairy (ISAID) Grant, a groundbreaking research initiative shaping the future of Idaho's dairy industry. 🐄🌿 We'll take you on a journey through the dairy bioeconomy model, exploring how the ISAID Grant transforms dairy waste into valuable bioproducts. From biochar-amended fields to the Clean Water Machine filtering manure, we unveil the diverse projects contributing to a more sustainable and economically vibrant dairy sector. Meet the brilliant minds behind the ISAID Grant – a multidisciplinary team spanning the state of Idaho. Discover their collaborative efforts, combining expertise from various fields to pioneer innovative solutions for dairy challenges. Dairy Bioeconomy Model: https://www.uidahoisaid.com/about

    29 min
  • 7 Episodes

About

Step into the future of sustainable dairy with The Clever Cow, a podcast launched by the University of Idaho’s ISAID Grant. Hosted by ISAID Communications Director Savanah Nunes Carpenter, this engaging series explores how a dynamic, multidisciplinary team is reshaping the dairy industry through innovation and research. From manure-to-market solutions to the science behind the dairy bioeconomy, The Clever Cow unpacks the ISAID Grant’s most transformative research projects and technologies. Through exclusive interviews with leading researchers, extension specialists, and seasoned industry professionals, listeners gain firsthand insight into the challenges, breakthroughs, and big ideas driving more sustainable, resilient dairy systems. Whether you're a producer, student, scientist, or simply curious about where dairy is headed, The Clever Cow bridges the gap between research and real-world impact, offering practical takeaways and fresh perspectives from the cutting edge of sustainable agriculture.

Information

  • Creator
    University of Idaho ISAID Grant
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The Clever Cow