One Last Look: Storms, Soy, and Spring’s Resilience
April Showers? April storms left a lot of damage in their wake.
This weather event was described as an historic “generational” flood, meaning that it only happens once in a lifetime. This is the good news.
How bad was it?
In the Arkansas Delta, the Cache River crested at 12.17 feet on April 7th. This Cache River flood event is the 9th largest historic crest since 1927, and the highest crest in the river (at Patterson) in 14 years. (Source: water.noaa.gov)
Cache River at Beedeville the day before the crest.
The flood waters are beginning to go down in the fields. Some crops already planted will probably be lost.
Eight Mile Creek in Beedeville (Jackson County) had a way to go to get back to its narrow banks.
A big thanks to neighbors who checked on each other, firefighters and other emergency responders who showed up in the face of danger and did what was needed to save lives and clear roadways. Utility workers once again braved the elements to restore power to thousands in need. Thank you all!
In challenging times like these, our faith in humanity is usually restored due to the outpouring of kindness and support.
This month marks the end of my three-year research project with the Mid-South Soybean Board. I want to thank the board for their support and encouragement as we explored consumer acceptability and the viability of an expanded domestic whole soy food market.
What better time to put locally grown, wholesome soy on school menus—for the health of our kids and the future they deserve?
Soybeans: Versatile with no nutritional equivalent.
This month’s recipe of the month is soy ricotta, with links to previous recipes for soy staples that support a broad range of potential “soy swaps” for your family menu.
Thanks for following me on this soy food journey!
This will be my final post as I prepare for and recover from surgery for the remainder of the spring and summer.
I am leaving you with one last glimpse of April flora and fauna from the Arkansas country thrown in for good measure.
Despite the weather over the last two weeks, Mother Nature has continued to send us signs of renewal and hope.
God Bless.
~Karen
Yellow Trout Lilies and Bugleweed welcomed April sunshine and survived cold nights.
A bumblebee on a Blue Bugleweed.
A chamomile party following days of torrential rain. Beautiful!
Oh, hey! Join this Red-Cockaded Woodpecker for a breakfast visit!
Not to be outdone, we harvested winter greens and turnips from the winter garden for our dinner table as well.
Heading toward Easter, wishing you warmer temperatures and beautiful colors!
Hope you have enjoyed our postcards from the field.
A special thanks to Kristena Merritt who has crafted these beautiful blogs for us all!