PFAS in industrial sludge, Speech and language development, Giant pumpkins

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
A field at a PFAS-contaminated farm
In this Thursday Aug. 15, 2019 photo, hay dries after a recent cut at Stoneridge Farm in Arundel, Maine. The farm has been forced to shut down after sludge spread on the farmland was linked to high levels of PFAS in the milk. Robert F. Bukaty/AP Photo 

First we learn how industrial sludge is contributing to PFAS-contamination on farmland. Then, we learn about the connections between screen time and speech development in children. And, we explore the world of giant pumpkins with a Wisconsin grower.

Featured in this Episode

  • PFAS spreading through industrial sludge on farmland

    Wisconsin farms are allowed to use industrial sludge as an alternative fertilizer, and state officials are finding this practice contributing to PFAS contamination. We talk to a WPR reporter about this farming practice and the health concerns involved.

  • The influence of screens on speech development

    Schools across the state are seeing a growing need for speech and language support services, which some researchers attribute the rise to screen time. An official from the Sauk Prairie School District and a language-learning researcher explain the problem and possible solutions. 

  • Competitive giant pumpkin grower

    Eldorado, Wisconsin resident Jim Ford has been growing giant pumpkins for more than 20 years. He tells us secrets for growing 1-ton gourds and gives us a look into the world of competitive giant pumpkin growing.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Danielle Kaeding Guest
  • Jeff Wright Guest
  • Rebecca Alper Guest
  • Jim Ford Guest
  • Avery Lea Rogers Producer
  • Mackenzie Krumme Producer
  • Murv Seymour Reporter
  • Trevor Hook Producer
  • Tyler Ditter Technical Director
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Executive Producer
  • Tim Peterson Managing Producer