 |
 |
Here is the info for the upcoming pasture walk near Charlotte. Even if you are not raising animals you may enjoy as it gets us thinking about building our soil, feeding our soil and long term planning, all important parts of organic farming. Hope to see you there. Vicki Graziers and All Farmers!!, Please see info below for JUNE 3 pasture walk (tour of farm, talk about management of pasture and animals, sheep breeds that do well in MI and on nearly year round pasture. Come join the fresh air and good conversation. Tirrell Centennial Farms Traditional, Innovative, Value-Added, Pasture-Based Livestock Production June 3, 2009 PROGRAM DETAILS When: Wednesday, June 3, 6:00-8:30 p.m. Who: Anyone interested in learning about intensive rotational pasture management, extending the grazing season, grass-fed products, small-scale cheese production, and value-added agriculture Meeting place: 700 Tirrell Road, Charlotte, MI 48813 Cost: $10.00 per person, $5 for additional family members Dinner? Yes, a light dinner will be served, and this is why we request pre-registration (RSVP)! To Register: call 676-7207 or e-mail [log in to unmask] The Tirrell family has been farming in Charlotte since 1841. Currently they farm about 400 acres, 200 of which is pasture. One of the Tirrel’s primary goals is to have their sheep on pasture for as many days as possible throughout the year. To achieve this, they rotationally graze orchardgrass/clover pastures from spring until fall, occasionally use summer annuals for mid-summer pastures, and utilize brassicas such as turips for grazing until February. Aside from their innovative strategies for extending the grazing season and intensive rotational grazing, unique features and recent changes of the Tirrell Farm include: · Direct-marketing (local and internet sales) pastured lambs and beef · Commercial cheese production (including sheep cheese!) · Use of the K-Line irrigation system to dispose of waste water and to increasing pasture productivity Don’t miss this tremendous opportunity! Sponsored by Ingham County MSU Extension Daniel Hudson Agriculture and Natural Resources Educator Ingham County MSU Extension 121 E. Maple Street P.O. Box 319 Mason, MI 48854 Office Phone: 517-676-7207 ext 7291