The Midwest is often called the heartland because it is the agricultural center of our nation. The soil is rich, and the climate is suitable for producing corn, wheat, soybeans, and livestock. Inventions such as the steel plow, the windmill, and barbed wire helped settlers carve out farms on the plains. Drilling equipment helped to make wells deep enough to reach water. These tools also helpd make farms productive. Technological advances continue to improve farming techniques today.