Michigan Organic Listserve: News

Eco-Lable Programs for Michigan Farmers

Lia Spanilo, a graducate student at Michigan State University, has recently put together a brochure, “Eco-Lable Programs for Michigan Farmers” to assist farmers in determining which, if any, are appropriate and benefical for their operations. It describes some more established lables, as well as some that are in development. It also has a checklist that summarizes the broad criteria embodied in each lable.

Most of the 130 eco-lables summarized in this brochure are also avialable to farmes in other US states. These inlcude: American Grassfed, American Humane Certified, American Welfare Approved, Certified Humane Rasied & Handled, Certified Naturally Grown, Demeter Biodynamic, Domestic Fair Trade, Family Farmed, Food Alliance, Predator Friendly, Protected Harvest, Select Michigan and USDA Organic.

Here is a link to the brochure www.msu.edu/%7Ehowardp/ecolabelspamphlet.pdf

Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference Exhibitors Wanted!

When: January 30, 2010

Where: Grayling High School, Grayling, MI

Why: Last year, we had over 700 people attend the Conference. Exhibitors are encouraged to promote their products and/or services and have the opportunity for direct sales at the conference

How: Two options are available for exhibitors Paid exhibiors ($75 including one conference registration) or Non-profit Exhibitors ($55 including one conference registration). Booth fees include lunch, 8-foot table and display area. Additional people are $30 per person. Exhibits must be free standing. Reservations for vendor spaces last year were full well in advance of the conference. Spaces for this year’s conference will be filled on a first come, first served basis.

The third option is an Information Table set up for brochures, pamphlets, catalogs and other printed material. This table will be will be accessible to people during breaks, lunches, prior to and after the conference. We suggest that you send or bring 100-300 pieces of information that will be of interest to conference attendees. We will be unable to return any leftover materials. This table is free, but you need to still return the enclosed form. Click here for Registration.

Feel free to contact the Presque Isle County MSU Extension office (989)734-2168 for more information. Or visit the website www.msue.msu.edu/antrim.